Fun Quiz

You Are Likely an Only Child

At your darkest moments, you feel frustrated. At work and school, you do best when you're organizing. When you love someone, you tend to worry about them. In friendship, you are emotional and sympathetic. Your ideal careers are: radio announcer, finance, teaching, ministry, and management. You will leave your mark on the world with organizational leadership, maybe as the author of self-help books.

The Birth Order Predictor

I thought this was very interesting. I didn't think an online quiz could guess my "birth order", but it did! :)

Spring Break is SO Unpredictable..

I almost bought a car today! That's so crazy and spontaneous of me. I guess it would've been even more spontatneous if I did buy it...

My parents have been very worried about my car because of the trouble it has been giving me lately.. It has about 133,000 miles on it.. it's getting up there. So, we went to the dealership and found this awesome Ford Fusion. Yeah- me, a Ford Fusion? Who knew I would like it so much? But, we ended up not going with it. I figured $328 a month was quite a lot on my college job pay. We ended up deciding that I should save until the end of the year, when I am only a year away from graduation to purchase a car. Oh, and if you are interested in a nice, affordable car.. I'd say look at the Fusion. They drive wonderfully!! :)

Other than that randomness, my parents and I have just been enjoying the time together. My dad got home last night, and so we have a little bit of time before he goes back. Tomorrow, my dad and I are going to all the missions around SA and flying kites. I'm excited!! :) Pictures for sure.

I haven't done any school work. Maybe I should do that so I don't make a fool of myself on Monday night... I give my presentation over Flannery O'Connor that night!! Crazy. This semester is flying by...

Airports

Oh man, today was quite the eventful day.
To spare you the lengthliness of my story, I'll give you the summarized version:
- Wake up
-Doctor's office w/ Aunt and Cousins
-Drive to Airport
-Dad calls, flight delayed for an hour due to storms all over TX.
-Go home
-Go to Airport
-Stand in long lines to receive our military pass
-Mean people work at the airport
-Dad calls- flight cancelled
-WHAT??!
-Dad calls again, rents a car with another soldier
-After waiting for about 5 hours, I was finally able to pick up my dad!!

Today seemed like it would never end. I think it was definitely a lesson on patience. But he's here, and he's asleep! Our family feels complete with him.

Tomorrow will bring many joyful moments and I am so excited!!! :)

"I'll do it later...."

I have a really bad habit of procrastinating. I blame it on college, but I think I've had it since before college. I've been given a list of chores to do (and it's not even that big of a list- vacuuming is not that hard), and yet I still haven't done it since I woke up at 7. (I know, 7 am is quite early for a Spring Break- I think my mom is trying to convince herself that her daughter is a morning person) Hopefully, after I finish posting this, I will vacuum, because we all know that the sole purpose of this post is procrastination. :)

My dad called today and told me that he should be getting in around noon tomorrow. I'm excited! It seems as if the day keeps dragging on!

I haven't done much else today. I really should clean. :( Hopefully once this summer arrives, I won't have too much cleaning to do... it's going to be my last summer living at home. That's kind of strange to think about! I'm excited about it, too, though. :)

"Bluebird Blogs"... Simply Amazing.

Well, I can definitely say a huge thanks to Susie, designer at Bluebird Blogs! She is so nice and wonderful at what she does! :) My blog design won't be up for a couple of days, but I can assure you that I love it a whole lot! :) If you ever want to have your blog designed, go straight to Bluebird Blogs!

:) Spring Break

Sometimes I forget why I have this blog at all- to keep in touch with friends, to remember random events in my life, and of course, for fun.

I always associate my Spring Break with my first steps of becoming a Christian. This week, 6 years ago, I was seeking anything I could find that would tell me more about God. It's pretty cool. :) I finally became a Christian a few weeks after that. It's always fun to think about.

Aside from that Spring Break, I think that this Spring Break is probably going to be one of the best for me. My dad is coming home for his 2 week leave, and I plan on enjoying every second of my time with home. We only have 1 more day!

He says he already has a list of meals he wants us to make, and that includes some that I have learned after having my own oven! :) I'm pretty excited about that.

Other than that, my mom and I have just been busy preparing the little things for him. We're making sure that his plants look good, and of course, his truck.

I'm also trying to get some homework done. I have a presentation to give on Flannery O'Connor the Monday night I get back. I'm not excited about that at all! :( It's okay though, I'm pretty good at working under pressure.

I hope everyone is having a wonderful Spring Break!!

Nonsensical randomness...

I apologize if my posts have made no sense at all lately... including this one.

I am pretty much finished with school work right now. I only have one thing left, and it's a multicultural breakfast on Friday. Our country is Germany, which is pretty fun!

Jenn (roommate) and I have been going to the Daily Grind the past couple nights because or our new love for Tazo Chai Frozen Milk Tea (is that what it's called?). I am not a huge fan of buying tea, but oh man... I recommend this one! Plus, the coffee shop is just a ton of fun. I have known this guy that works there since my freshman year. His name is Leonard, although he sometimes calls himself "Dr. Love" for his matchmaking skills. Well, he served in Vietnam and is just a cool guy. Anyways, he pretty much gave us the best compliment I've ever heard the other night. We were on the topic of singleness (come on now, he is Dr. Love), and he told us, "There's no way you girls will be single for the rest of your lives- you're too pretty." For some reason, I just needed to hear that. Sometimes it's pretty believable that I became a nun in my sleep or something!

Oh and I have a small prayer request for myself. Lately I have been tossing things back and forth in my head that I'd really rather not toss back and forth in my head (sorry for that redundancy). It's nothing bad, I just really don't want to be thinking about these things. I feel like they're annoying, and they serve no use to me.

2 days- Spring Break! Dad's Leave-5 days!

I am so excited about this break. I don't think it has really hit me yet that I'm going to see my dad soon! :) I think it's just been different because I'm not living in SA, and so I feel like I'm the one gone sometimes. I'm just excited about seeing him though. I can't wait until the day he finally returns and we can all be a family together (well, in Texas atleast) amd life will go back to somewhat normal. That will be nice.

So, yeah. School has been going good. I'm regularly busy, that sometimes when I find myself actually sitting down and doing something that wasn't planned, I freak out a little. I am learning to cherish my sleep.

I took a test this morning that was pretty easy, and now I'm going to transcribe a poem into the phonetic alphabet. Plus babysitting, plus reading for Linguistics...

Overwhelmed? I hope not. Maybe I'm becoming numb to it all.

Oh Spring Break :)

Give Me a Break!

No, I don't mean that in a negative way ;) Latel, I haven't been spending my Saturday's in any other way but studying, but I gave myself a huge break yesterday and joined our college group for our "mystery road trip". I'm horrible at figuring out surprises... I knew that we would go to a ropes course- and that's just what we did! We all drove up to Georgetown and really bonded as a group, which is good because I can feel our comunity getting closer. Everyone in our group is really gettng to know eachother, and it's nice to have. It seems like it's so much harder to find in college when everyone is kind of "on their own road". I hope that I continue to have a good community once I graduate :)

Well, a couple years ago when I worked at Camp Buckner, I got certified for ropes course. I hope you can imagine me climbing up 30-40 ft. poles and setting up ropes course sets, tying knots, attaching harness', all of that. Well, whenever I worked at CB, I was absolutely terrified of the "Pamper Pole". I did it once, and that was it. I didn't want anymore of it. It was fun to brag about, but it was my least favorite. You had to climb to the tope of a pole, stand up on it and jump off. That's one of the hardest things to do because you are pretty much focusing on jumping/falling. On every other one, you are trying to avoid that.

Well, guess which set we did yesterday with our group? Yep. The Pamper Pole. My biggest fear. But I did it. I stayed on top of that pole deciding what I wanted to do for a good, long while. Everyone was saying encouraging words, and finally, I jumped off. The best part is when you're coming down- it's just something about the adrenaline, but I still can't believe that I was that scared. Golly :) Oh, and all of the girls did it, too. 2 of our guys didn't. Just goes to show.... haha just kidding!

Guatemala!

So some of the best news ever happened today! :) If you didn't know, my parents have kind of been against the idea of me going on missions out of the country. This has been a big deal to me ever since I entered college because there are so many opportunities available to me. I never felt called to any specific country, but the idea was always in the back of my mind. Well, this year, at UMHB's annual Missions Emphasis Week, two missionaries came that had done 10 years on the mission field in Guatemala, and they still go back. It was a cute little couple, probably in their fifties, and I loved them. Well, they spoke in Spanish the whole time because they were presenting in my Spanish class. Before they came, I was expecting to be bored out of my mind because despite my 7 years of some form of Spanish class, I still don't know that much. I understood everything they said. I even talked back. This made me so happy. My heart broke for the Guatemalan community because they live a very poor lifestyle, and their water system is full of bacteria. They are in constant need of donations for things that we so often take for granted- clothes, purified water systems, food, education, even a church to fellowship and worship in.

Ever since that class, Guatemala had been on my mind, and slowly began growing on my heart. I had mentioned it to my mom in small talk, just trying to gain her insight on it sometime last semester. She had said that I could go if my dad approved. Well, it took me forever to work up the courage to ask my dad, and I finally did today. I was going to wait until he came home to ask him, but I felt the time was today on his phone call. I had mentioned a shirt that I had bought in support of the Omega Kids mission team from Baylor that is going to Guatemala this Spring Break. I told him what it was raising money for and what there trip was about. He said he thought it was a great idea and then I mentioned that I wanted to go next year. He said "You should! It sounds neat, and it's your last Spring Break."

I was speechless.

I couldn't believe that he had just said what I never thought he would say. Ever since we hung up the phone, I can't stop thinking about it. I don't know if I will be going through Omega Kids, but I'm pretty sure I will. If not, I am thinking of going through Buckner, who also owns the camp I worked at 2 summers ago. This is SUCH exciting news! :) I will continue to update you with news on a future trip that I am so excited about!

Isaiah 61
1 The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,
because the LORD has anointed me
to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners, [a]
2 to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor
and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,

3 and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the LORD
for the display of his splendor.

4 They will rebuild the ancient ruins
and restore the places long devastated;
they will renew the ruined cities
that have been devastated for generations.

5 Aliens will shepherd your flocks;
foreigners will work your fields and vineyards.

6 And you will be called priests of the LORD,
you will be named ministers of our God.
You will feed on the wealth of nations,
and in their riches you will boast.

7 Instead of their shame
my people will receive a double portion,
and instead of disgrace
they will rejoice in their inheritance;
and so they will inherit a double portion in their land,
and everlasting joy will be theirs.

8 "For I, the LORD, love justice;
I hate robbery and iniquity.
In my faithfulness I will reward them
and make an everlasting covenant with them.

9 Their descendants will be known among the nations
and their offspring among the peoples.
All who see them will acknowledge
that they are a people the LORD has blessed."

10 I delight greatly in the LORD;
my soul rejoices in my God.
For he has clothed me with garments of salvation
and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness,
as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest,
and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.

11 For as the soil makes the sprout come up
and a garden causes seeds to grow,
so the Sovereign LORD will make righteousness and praise
spring up before all nations.

Some thoughts just running through my head...

At my small group tonight that I meet with each week, I couldn't sort my thoughts. I haven't been able to sort my thoughts. I'm one of those people that wants answers to questions- clear, distinct answers. I am not getting those answers right now. For some reason tonight, after reading a portion of the sermon on the mount with our group, I felt the need to just be still. I realized that I go throughout my day as a pretty cheerful person (lately). I have been making it a point to try to encourage those around me. I have been going out of my way to meet with people and enjoy time with friends. I have been doing all of these things, and while they may be good, they are not when I haven't found the time to just be still. As I walked back to my apartment tonight, I looked up at the stars and the moon, and everything in me wanted to be somewhere else. My life is not bad at all- I am very blessed. But when I forget about being still, and meeting with Him like I do with my friends, with study groups, with text books... it dawns on me all at once that I am not investing enough of my time in Him. I go throughout my day trying to please Him, talking about Him, thinking of Him... these are all good things. But what about spending just as much time meeting with Him?

Tonight Shawn passed out a list of questions that she found online, and I think they are very important to ask:
1. Am I investing in myself?
2. Am I genuinely interested in others?
3. Am I doing what I love doing and loving what I do?
4. Am I staying in my strength zone?
5. Am I investing my time with the right people?
6. Am I taking others to a higher level? (mission)
7. Am I taking care of today?
8. Am I taking time to think?
9. Am I developing leaders?
10. Am I pleasing God?

None of these things are possible if I'm not on the same page as my awesome Father in Heaven. If I try to accomplish these things... I fail. I feel miserable. Because during the midst of me not spending as much time with Him as I should, I begin to try to do the other things without Him. I begin to live in a way that suggests I don't need Him.

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." - Matthew 5:2 (the first beatitude)

So I want to seek His face. I want Him to be my fuel. If He's not, then what I am doing is all in vain.

I never really write a whole lot about this, and I'm sorry to be so transparent, but I want to begin writing things on here that could be of encouragement to you. I want to call them "devotionals", but I don't know if this post would be considered that or not. I hope that this was encouraging to you- maybe you could recognize some of the same characteristics and need for change in your life. I pray that in any way, my words will spur you to chase after our King.

Car... again?!

Okay, so without going into too much detail (simply because I don't really want to dwell on this as much as I can), my car is having problems again. I'm taking it to the mechanic today, and I'm beginning to wonder if these series of problems is actually a hint that my car is about to die. I don't know, and I can't think like that- right? If you read this, please pray about this. I don't know how much money I can spend on this, especially since I have to take summer school.

Adventures in Townsend Memorial Library (and other UMHB spots)

So today Lauren and I did our usual weekend activity and went to the library to work on school work. No, I'm not joking, this has actually become a routine for us. Luckily, to keep our sanity, we shook it up a little and decided to document our adventures by photograph. So, while we don't normally do our homework while roaming all around the library, we figured it'd make for a good blog post! :)Today I kissed Orlando Bloom because he likes to read... :)

Lauren is trapped!

I've got school spirit, yes I do, I've got school spirit, how about you?!

There are so many things to do in a library... Lauren takes lessons in fencing :)


I "remember the Alamo" with a smile :)

Lauren learns survivor skills... just in case.

She is sooo excited about reading!

It's quicksand! Wait... quickbook?!


Way cool picture- good photography skills, Lauren!

I'm sure this girl is just as excited about reading, too...

I am excited!

This has been a wonderful week :)

God has just been reminding me exactly why I'm even in the education field. Let me share with you... About a week or so ago I was having huge doubts about my major. Nothing seemed to be going right, and of course there were some battles in my head. You know, the "You'll never be good at it" kind of thoughts. I even considered changing my major... to communications! My basis for this decision was only because I would save money and graduate a semester early. (I know, but I was on the extreme of 'I hate school right now!') I don't know if it's wrong to have these thoughts sometimes, like when you're up really ate and you just want to be in bed... but I'm pretty positive it's wrong when it's all you think for about 2 days straight. School had gotten that hard. I was mainly doubting because I was not even enjoying my Literature class- the one class any English major should enjoy. I wasn't thinking of the fact that I wasn't putting nearly as much effort into this class as I could have. So that was last week. It was not fun at all. Well... this week, it's as if God was like, "Krista, what have I called you to do?!" Well, let me tell you what I know. I know that God has called me to work with children, big or small. I know that God has called me to do this in different settings. I also know that I have a huge imagination and I often get far too much ahead of myself.. with thoughts of, "I can go to seminary and be a children's minister, I can go work as a camp director, I can teach, I can teach and go to seminary...." My brain seems to think at a speed that is not healthy, because with these thoughts come a desire for it to happen right now. So I forget the present and it's dire effect on the future. Well, this week... God has been confirming to me that I am in the right major. On a test that I was hoping to make a B in, I earned a 91. In a class where I wasn't understanding anything, everything began making sense. In classes that used to bore me, God has used to ignite a fire of passion for what I am learning. God has reminded me that teaching in itself is it's own mission field, and has endless possibilities. I have even compared public schools to communist countries... and something about not being allowed to tell children about Jesus makes it even more exciting to me that I will (and I will) find ways to. I am going to purposely choose books that will remind children of Jesus and get my foot in the door. I am so excited about the future, but for the first time in a long time, I am excited also about the present. I am learning valuable techniques and life lessons. I am learning the importance of a career that I often forget. I am excited!

91!

If you've talked to me recently, you know that one of my hardest, yet most enjoyable class has been Linguistics. Last week we took our first test and I was having so much anxiety about the test. Well, I went in and I was conifident that I passed it with atleast a C, hopefully a B. Well ,if you've guessed from the title of the post, I was totally surprised that I made the second highest grade in the class- a 91! I was so excited that I knew I had to blog about it. It's so easy to forget that studying pays off when it seems as if you do it all the time. :) So, moral of the story: study!! :)

Attention!

Attention all non-blogger friends!!

+ 10 Points to Rachel for finally jumping onto the Blogger Bandwagon! I highly recommend you follow her lead, and get on! :) If you don't have one... you're missing out. Plus, I'd put you on my link list! :)

Oh, and by the way.. what are we going to do in a year when we are almost all graduated?? I know, crazy thought to think about... I know we will still call each other, but trust me- blogger is a great way to keep up with the little things.

Oh, and Lauren B., I'm gonna have to see pictures of kids somehow!! :) (You know I'm kidding!)

A love for music and reading...

+ = WONDERFUL! :)


Can you guess which music I am listening to as I read?

Well, if you didn't guess Pride and Prejudice Soundtrack by Dario Marianelli, then you have not been keeping up. ;)

I have a pretty big test tomorrow night, and so I'm re-reading some of our short stories in American Literature. I think I have come to the conclusion that Theodore Dreiser writes very eloquently. It's as if the words are jumping off the page and taking the shape that they would be if it were all real. It's like dreaming while awake. :)

Or maybe the P&P Soundtrack just has the effect on me.... Either way, I am very much enjoying myself right now! :)

Weekends are one of my favorite things..

After a long, somewhat tough, week... I am enjoying the weekend. While I do have to study, I'm also finding time for myself to have some fun. I have a pretty big test on Monday in American Literature, but it's okay :)

Yesterday, Lauren B. and I went to a bunch of little shops and tried on cute little clothes.

I'm also very excited about an upcoming blog design by Susie at Bluebird Blogs. :) It should be done soon!! :)I've yet to decide on a color scheme from the many I am thinking of...

Okay, well it's time to enjoy lunch with a good friend and hen get some serious studying done! :)

Weekends are amazing!

This week was like finals week, only it felt a little worse than that. I had 3 tests in a row! :) I don't even think my finals are like that this semester. Anyways, I made it out, and now I plan on enjoying my weekend! :) MLC has a retreat tonight, which I'm excited about! We'll play games, act out osme skits, read the Word, worship, and eat some breakfast that all the boys are making. That should be interesting! haha ;)

So, I hope everyone else has a wonderful weekend! :)

Prayer of St. Francis

I pretty much love this:

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace,
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
where there is sadness, joy;

O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
to be understood as to understand;
to be loved as to love.

For it is in giving that we receive;
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

Miss Quinn! :)

So I have started going to my "adopted mom's" 5th grade English classroom every Friday. It has been very insightful. :) Last week when I went, most of the kids just kind of stared at me and didn't really want to talk, with the exception of those sweet girls that smile and say, "You're pretty!" (now THAT makes my day). Well, today, when I walked in, all I head was "Miss Quinn" from a number of students. It sounded so great :) I never knew how affirming it would sound to me, but it was just like music to my ears. I had to stop and actually think, "I am going to be 'Miss Quinn' to SO many students in a couple years. That's crazy!

I'm really enjoying my classes. They have already proven to be challenging, but I'm enjoying the informaton that I am learning from them. It's just kind of neat to read for my homework, and then discuss it in class. Many students here always say, "Better you than me", but I really am enjoying it. Granted, I do have my days where I just feel overwhelmed, but those experiences are teaching me how to manage my time better. My hardest class yet has been General Linguistics. There are a lot of technical terms that I have to remember, but I can't say that it's not interesting. :)

Anyways, I'm going to read, drink tea, and listen to my Pride and Prejudice soundtrack. I am such a girl :)

The writings of a single girl: The plain, don't feel sorry for me, truth.

The past few weeks have been another one of those weeks. For me, one of those weeks is the kind where you are just longing for some real companionship. Being single, I automatically pin this on the fact that I'm without a boyfriend. I have friends here that are true treasures in my life, but sometimes it just doesn't fill that hole.

Thinking about this (as I write), I think of a good section of Blue Like Jazz that I read last year. Despite the controversy or the popularity of that book, I read something in there that brought a smile to my heart. Donald Miller was talking to his newlywed friend, when he asked him how new married life was. His friend responded with quite the surprising answer, and replied with something along these lines: "It's wonderful, but it's not complete fulfillment. I love my wife, but I will never truly know her like she desires to be known, and she will never truly know me the way I desire to be known.... The only one that can truly know us is God." I don't know about you, but that is amazing to me.

I know people in my life care about me. I can't say that I don't sometimes wonder how different life would be if I had a boyfriend, a fiancee, or a husband. I can take joy in the fact that I have my Lord and that He is always accessible for me to talk to, to pour my heart out to, to cry with, to laugh with, to love.

It is when I am in these moments of longing for a(nother) companion that I realize I need to spend more time with my Lord. It is in these times when I say "I miss him," and I realize that that him is Him, my Father in Heaven. It is times like these that draw me back to Him.

smells good.

My perfume, that is.

That's really not what this post is about though ;)

I went out to eat with my good friend, Paige, this morning. I know her from church and she's pretty stinkin' cool (and by stinkin' I mean awesome)! We wanted to go to this small place called "Oldies Diner", but they are closed until April! That stinks, especially since their breakfast is only $2.99. We got over it real fast though and decided to go to I-HOP instead. I had the "Passport". 'Twas good. We talked about our lives and what's going on, and also about what God has been showing us lately. Then, Paige surprised me with a gift card to Goody's and LifeWay. She's too sweet. So, I endedup getting a sweater and some socks from Goody's. I'm waiting until the 31st to go to LifeWay because the book I want won't be here until then.

I'm going to babysit tonight, and tomorrow I will probably be in the library all afternoon catching up on my class work! :)

Back in the Routine

I am definitely one of those people that thrive off of a routine.... well, a spontaneous routine. A routine within a routine? I don't know... but I love having classes, and everything that works around them.

This morning I took my written screening test, well.. half of it at least. It wasn't as hard as my mind usually works that type of thing to be. Then, in Diverse Populations, we made groups of 4 for our multicultural breakfast. Our group ended up choosing Germany for our country. This should be exciting since I lived there for part of my childhood, and I worked at a German restaurant for a few months. I'm pretty sure I like most German food... even the Reuben sandwich.

After class, I was so hungry because I had been thinking about food, so I stopped by Burger King to pick up a Croissant, and left to go babysit. I hadn't seen the kids in 6 weeks, which is FOREVER to me. It's amazing what changes can occur in that time span. Anna is talking even more than before, and has mastered the art of jumping. It's quite amusing. Nathan is taller, still growing like a weed. I love those kids so much. The thought of them moving makes me want to cry. :( I still have a few more months with them.

Afterwards, I rushed back to the apartment to get whatever I needed to do done for room check. I have an amazing roommate. She cooked dinner and everything. :) Then I rushed off to my Linguistics class, which is proving to be even more interesting than I thought. I have a lot of vocabulary to learn though... my study skills are going to be tested even more this semester.

So, anyways- today was a much better day than the previous ones. God has been hinting to me that He has it under control, and I really need to trust Him, even in the practical things, like a car. He clearly revealed to me that He has me in His hands.

Oh, and on a totally different note:
Please pray for me as I work up the courage to tell my dad that I want to go to Guatemala next Spring Break. There's a great opportunity for me next year, and I really want to go. I'd be working in the orphanages with the Guatemalan children, sharing the love of Christ to kids that don't feel like they matter to anyone.

$800.00

I think I'm beginning to learn the reality of becoming an adult. I'm only paying half... but wow, I guess I underestimated the price of car repairs. The good news is-I'm okay.

Tomorrow morning I have a written screening test. I'm not too worried about it, but it is one of the requirements to be accepted into the school of education.

I'm really trying to not let the beginning of this week take over my mood. I think a nice warm shower is in store, as well as some good sleep.

An Eventful Day

Well, yesterday morning I drove home to get my braces off. Anyone who has had braces knows the importance of this day. My day was extremely important, and turned out to be more eventful than I expected.

In my previous posts about my car, I ended on a good note. I thought my car was fine, but the possibility of still having a problem with it was in the back of my head. As I was driving home, my speedometer stopped working and my air bag light started flashing. Every time I tried to signal, the lights would barely dim. This is all in addition to a flickering brake and battery light that then seemed to dim away as well. Then I noticed that my speedometer began to work again at a speed of 40 and below. I called my 'adopted dad', Jason, explained the problem, and was advised to keep driving because the car sounded fine. Once I hit SA, I called my mom, who told my to go straight to the dealer. I arrived safely, went inside, and explained the problems to the first mechanic I saw. He said it sounded electrical, and since I had school, he asked if I felt comfortable coming back on the weekend to have it fixed. I accepted, and went out to start my car. Only, here lies the problem.... it didn't start. So now, my car is at the shop, and will hopefully be fixed by lunch, because I have important meetings to go to tonight. If I don't go... that will be bad. One of the meetings is for a class, and it's the only meeting of this week. If you can't tell.... I'm a little panicky.

Incase you're wondering about the diagnosis... it's what I thought it was all along, plus some.

-Alternator gone bad
-Alternator belt gone bad
-Top right boot leaking (???)

I don't know the exact amount, but I know it's expensive. This is so sad :(

The good thing is, God got me to SA safely, and of all places to have a car not start- the dealership. So praise God. And hopefully this solves this series of car problems.

Oh, and I'm extremely excited about my new smile. Pctures to come up soon, hopefully! ;)

Congratulations Green Family!

I would just like to say congratulations to the lovely Green family. They have been such wonderful people in my life, and they have been blessed by the birth of their third child, Elizabeth Noelle, today. Their link is on the right of my page, listed as 'The Greenhouse'. I love that family. :)

I also think this is way cool because she was born on the same day as one of my best friends, Lauren Grace.

I would just love to say Happy Birthday to both of these girls!!

Wow!

I have only been to class ONCE this week!! They cancelled school all day today, which is so exciting because I was supposed to have my night class tonight.

It has been NICE! :)

I can say that I am excited for warmer weather today... While I've enjoyed the no class part, I've missed the option of getting in my car to go somewhere with friends! :)

I'll be staying warm. Are you?

Life Back at UMHB

In case any of you are wondering how my first week of school has been, you should probably read on. :) Besides all of the car business, things have been going wonderful. I moved into my new apartment on Monday, and my roommate Jenn and I have been getting things organized and decorated since. I made a cute little vanity area after buying a cute little mirror and hung it up above my dresser. It's perfect since Jenn and I get ready at about the same time every morning and our bathroom isn't really big enough to share the mirror. We've been doing a lot of bargain shopping at places like Ross, Marshalls, and of course- the Dollar Tree. It has been wonderful since I'm trying to save money, and I like bargains. While I know that I will only be living here for a semester, I believe that I do better academically when I have a cozy little home. It's so important because then I feel like I have some where to relax!

Classes have been going good, also. I'm taking 2 of my Education classes, which have been very enlightening so far. I am learning a lot about how a teacher makes a difference in students' lives and how to be a good teacher. I have to take a written screening test in a few weeks, and I'm just a little worried about it. I'm sure it will be fine, though. I'm also taking two of my upper level English classes- American Literature (which I won't go to until Monday the 29th!) and General Linguistics. Linguistics was pretty interesting. I'm just a little worried about being the only person in there that is younger than 40. I'm only a little intimidated. (Okay, a LOT ntimidated!) Overall, I think classes will be a treat.

Oh, and "the weathero utside is frightful"! Rumor has it that the churches all around Belton and Temple will be closed tomorrow because roads are supposed to start icing over soon! I hope everyone is not too chilly!

Oh, and I thought I would treat everyone with a picture that the school put up on our "MyCampus" web site of me and my family group from my Freshman Year! I feel like we all look so much younger!

Updates on the Car :)

So yesterday I tok my car to the place where I get my oil changes done, and he recommended a different mechanic that he said I could trust, so I took my car there this morning. I will find out later what is the problem, and I will be sure to post about it. :) Hopefully it is something minor, because yesterday, they when they did a free alternator test, they said it didn't seem problematic. I really hope this is true (and that it is nothing major)!! Thank you for your prayers, and I will continue to update it throughout the day! :)

*edit*

I called the mechanic and they think it is the Cluster. I asked how much it would cost to replace, and he said $600 or so... yeah, I don't have that kind of money to throw away.

Is a cluster even important? He said it's what tracks your speed....

I don't know.... I'll know more in an hour or so.

*edit 2*
I went to the mechanic and he told me that the car will be fine if I don't replace the cluster. He said that it only controlls your speedomoeter, and that my speedometer is working fine. Praise God! I don't think I will ever want to replace a $600 part that isn't all that important! This mechanic didn't even charge me for checking it out. That part totally shocked me in a pleasant way, and so I will be writing them a Thank-You card and giving them a tip- I can't not pay them anything! Thank you all for your concerns, help, and prayers. I truly believe that God had this in His hands, because all signs pointed to the alternator, and it was almost nothing! I love Him!!

Car TROUBLE!

I drove here to Belton on Monday. Right when I hit the Schertz area I almost panicked because I saw warning lights on in my car- warning lights never come on in my car. There was something weird though, because they were only flickering. These lights were my emergency brake light as well as my battery light. I stopped at a gas station and called some friends, but I still had no idea what was going on. All of them told me to get back on the highway since the car sounded fine and they were only flickering. Well, I noticed that the lights only began to flicker when I got to the speed of 70.

Luckily, I arrived to Belton safely. Praise God for that!

I've googled it, and found out that these are the symptoms of a bad alternator. :( I told my mom and she says we've already replaced the alternator.... I called a mechanic yesterday, and he said it sounded liek the alternator but he couldn't know ofr sure until he looked at it. Well, as soon as my dad calls and talks with me about it, I'll take it in to the mechanic. If it is the alternator, I pay 200-300 dollars :(. Let's hope it's just a fuse!!!

Please pray for me because I don't exactly have a ton of money. I am still saving up for summer school as well as a new car. So, please pray!! Thanks.

Hair-cuts, Dolls from Peru, Greek Food, Family, Lazy Pugs........

I could try to describe my days in the title of my post, but I figured I'd stick to the normal and write it out in the actual post... :)

Yesterday I got a hair cut, and don't worry my friends, I only got a trim. :) I always think I can be courageous and get that cute little short hair-cut I see in a picture, but *sigh* I am not. That is probably a good thing, too.

Yesterday I hung out with my way awesome friend, Cricket! She gave me this cute little doll that she got from Peru, and I'm really excited about putting it on my desk whenever I get around to unpacking things in my new apartment. I dread the thought of putting so much time into setting things up, but I know once I start doing it that it will be fun. Silly me! :) We also ate some Greek food in one of those restaurants that you can say no one knows about. I like those type of places because you feel like you've discovered something that is yet to be a huge hit! :) I'm supposed to be taking my mom there soon- she looked impressed as she looked at the menu! :)

Now, I am here this morning, typing on my blog. I always consider it fun to do. I woke up my pugs this morning, and my crazy pug Khaki just could not get up from bed. He has this really comfy pillow, and so he didn't want to budge. I actually had to carry him, and he's no small dog! :) I love him though. He is defintely not a morning doggie! :)

Oh, and I also want to share a few verses with you:
"Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD, O my soul! I will praise the LORD as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being." -Psalm 146:1-2, emphasis mine :)

"Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, but wine and milk without any money and without price." -Isaiah 55:1

"Christ Jesus our Lord, in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him." -Ephesians 3:12

I just thought these verses kind of flowed together- we are children of God! He provides to us access to Him with confidence, we don't have to pay any price! Praise His name.

Oh, 2007!

So every time I get to the end and beginning of a year, I tend to think about things. Things like what changes will occur, who I am/want to become, things I KNOW will happen (or at least am 98% sure of) and things I want to happen.

Here's what's made the list:

Changes that will occur/things I KNOW will happen...
1. New roommate and new apartment- I am excited about this because it's always fun to get to know another person and share those special times that only roomies usually share, such as cooking, laughing late in the night after late night talks, a drive off campus just cause you need it, etc. The new apartment will be fun because it's always fun to decorate somethings in a unique way! :)

2. Upper level English Classes- I'm going to read... a LOT! I'm excited. I know this won't always be the case when I'm up until 3 studying, but hey- it's the experience that is always fun to look back on. I get to learn, and what a privilege that is!

3. Taking summer school in SA- Wow.... I'm not too sure about this one but it has to happen. I'm nervous and excited all at the same time!

4. Finding a summer job in SA- I'm looking at things from retail all the way to working at a church again. We shall see what happens!

5. My dad coming home!! - He'll be on his 2 week leave in March, and home for good near the beginning of September. I am absolutely excited about this!!!

6. I'm sure there are other things I can't think of at the moment....

Who I am/Want to become...
Right now I am at a point in my life where I am realizing a lot of things about myself. I am a Christian that desires a deeper relationship with the Lord. I want to become so strong in my walk with Him, I want to memorize scripture more, I want to love Him and others more. I want to be a woman of God that, God willing, a godly man will be glad to call his wife one day. I want to shine more for my King. I want to be confident in the woman that He has created me to be.


This I want to happen...
I want to make better grades. I've been falling into the "more B's than A's" category lately... I want Children's Ministry to really be a place where the kids can learn about the Lord and have fun. I want the playground project for Children's Ministry to be successful. I want to develop deeper friendships.

I want a lot, right? I pray that the Lord's hand will be over all of these areas in my life. I pray that I will turn to Him during the good and hard times of this year. I pray that I will be a brighter light for Him. I pray that 2007 presents a time of growth for you as well!

Oh, and good for you for reading through all of this. Love y'all!

Fun with Mom!

Well, today was a great day! :) I woke up around 9 (which is actually becoming late for me!) and gave Edith all of her eye drops. Then, I did a load of laundry. My mom got ready and we headed to her physical therapy appointment where I read and looked out the window. :) We ate some Panda Express and then had some Starbucks, since we both received Starbucks gift cards for Christmas! Then we did one of my favorite things- we went to a bunch of model homes! (Do you think I'm weird?) I really enjoy doing this, especially right now, because I am hoping that during my twenties, I will buy a house. Now, I can't believe how expensive some things are, but I'm sure it's worth the investment if you plan to live in the house for a long time. Now I'm not rushing into anything, don't worry... When I get out of college I will probably find an apartment or a small condo to live in for a few years. This is all according to me, but who knows what God has planned. I could always become a nun. ;) (That was a joke...)

I know this is random, but what is your favorite Starbucks drink?? I'm trying to venture out of my comfort zone of Zevra Mochas and Vanilla Lattes.

I hope everyone is enjoying these lat few days of 2006! :)

Times are changin'!

Oh, transition time. :)

Can you ever just sense everything around you beginning to change? It's happening in my life, and not just because it's a new year in 3 days.

I'm looking forward to it.

+ working out
+ hot chocolate
+ time with mom
+ talks with dad
+ Charlotte's Web

- missing UMHB
- wanting a home church in SA

My pugs :)

I always talk about them, so I figured I'd let you see some recent pictures of my two precious puggeroos!! They really are a joy to me.



This is my Khaki. He has decided that his new bed outside will be my dad's beloved fern. Let me tell you, this is quite hilarious. My mom and I never liked the fern to begin with, and so we "let" my dad put it in the backyard. Apparently, Khaki doesn't think much of it either- he thinks it's a bed!! Everytime my dad hears about it, he has to laugh a little. I can't wait to send him this picture! (haha!)



This is Edith. She has gone through a LOT these past two weeks, and because of her eye right now, she has to wear this cone. She's getting used to it more very day. We love her a lot!

You have to admit, our pugs add laughter to life! ;)

God offers hope through everything :)

Isn't that just the most wonderful thing ever? I am so thankful that our God can be seen through everything. He is my strength.

Here are some updates:

After many prayers and wondering. my dog Edith is recovering. For those who missed the story, she only has one eye, and got a corneal ulcer in her remaining eye, meaning there was a scratch on the cornea. She started looking really bad a couple of days after her surgery, and so we had to take her to the vet. He said he was "cautiously optimisitc", which left us a tad bit worried. But with a TON of eye drops and pills every day, she is recovering. God is taking care of us, because if this would've happened any earlier before I came home, it would be so hard for my mom to do. She needs 2-3 people to give her those eye drops.

Christmas- We are expecting a good Christmas despite my dad being gone. Our family is very suppostive, and we're going to have a huge meal and lots of time together. I have a very interesting family, which always makes it fun!

Reading-
Psalms and Romans :)
Disciplines of a Godly Woman (God is teaching me a lot about areas of my life that need changing)

I am enjoying the break so far! :)

Insignificance. (I'm sorry about the sad post)

in·sig·nif·i·cance /ˌɪnsɪgˈnɪfɪkəns/ Pronunciation Key - Show Spelled Pronunciation[in-sig-nif-i-kuhns] Pronunciation Key - Show IPA Pronunciation
–noun the quality or condition of being insignificant; lack of importance or consequence.

I have been feeling very insignificant the past few days. It has felt as if every area of my life has not been what I thought it has, with a few exceptions. In high school, God had been teaching me that I was depending far too much on human relationships. Maybe that is the case now. I don't really know. Everything is a huge whirlwhind right now. Christmas is going to be so hard with my dad gone. My mom and I are doing okay. I am trying to be a better daughter, but sometimes it is so hard. I don't even know if I am being a good friend half the time. I just don't understand how one day I am perfectly fine, and the next everything is released to me about all of the things I have done wrong. This isn't directed at anyone, I just need to get things off my chest.

Why do I mess up without knowing it? Why do I need to be told? Am I that wrapped up in my own self that I don't even realize?? Am I so blind? In the pit of my stomach, I am feeling empty. Miserable for things that I often feel I don't have control over.

There are few people in my life that I can be open with. That I can be myself around and not have to be someone that I am not. People that seem to actually care.

I am sorry if I have not been that friend to anyone out there. The friend that you can laugh and be yourself around.

It's just so easy to feel alone when the people you love aren't there or seem so far away.

Lord, carry me please.

Why? Why are you still here with me?
Didn’t you see what I’ve done?
In my shame I want to run,
And hide myself.
Yeah, but it’s here I see the truth,
I don’t deserve you.

But I need you to love me,
And I, I won’t keep my heart from you this time.
And I’ll stop this pretending that I can,
Somehow deserve what I already have
I need you to love me

I, I have wasted so much time
Pushing you away from me.
I just never saw how you
Could cherish me.

Cause you’re a God who has all things,
And still you want me.

And I need you to love me,
And I, I won’t keep my heart from you this time.
And I’ll stop this pretending that I can,
Somehow deserve what I already have
Yeah, ye-ea-eah

Your love makes me forget what I have been.
Your love makes me see who I really am.
Your love makes me forget what I have been, oh-oh.

And I need you to love me, yeah
I need you to love me, ye-ea-eah!
And I’ll stop this pretending that I can,
Somehow deserve what I already have
Somehow deserve what I already have
I need you to love me, yeah
I need you to…
oh oh oh oh eo (x4)
Love me, love me, yah
-Barlow Girl, I Need You to Love Me

Finals week! (amongst other things)

You heard it right- it's finals week here at UMHB!

I had my first of foru today, and I daresay it was pretty easy! I am always happy when I know the information. :) Tomorrow will be filled with hours of studying as I have 2 finals on Saturday. I know... Saturday. All will be well after that as I have one left on Monday! We shall see how it all turns out...

I will officially be a JUNIOR after this week and I am SO excited! :) Next semester will be full of changes, which is fun! I am switching apartments. Right now, I live in a four person apartment, and my new apartment will be for 2 people. While it is a bit smaller, I'm excited about the coziness of it all! :) I am excited about slowly buying things to decorate for it :) My new roommate Jenn is way fun. I think there will be much laughter to take place in the new apartment. :)

I will also be taking some upper-level English courses, which is exciting. I will be taking General Linguistics and American Literature. This is so exciting because I have been waiting to take some "real classes" that are actually required for my major, as opposed to my basics.

My plans for Christmas break are to spend some quality time with my mom and try to be a good daughter :) I also desire to get some good reading in. Yesterday I bought "Disciplines of a Godly Woman" by Barbara Hughes. The first chapter is very well-written and has many good points in it. I'm looking forward to having time to get in the type of reading where I can soak up the words from the pages and not be rushed.

I hope everyone is doing wonderful!!

I really like these... :)

I am admiring some of the blog designs that I see over at bluebirdblogs.com . They are beautifully designed, and they are not that expensive! What do you think? I have to order one in January for myself :)

These are my ramblings :)

Right now I am at my job where I should be tutoring students with English. Not one person has come in since 7 p.m. and so I sit here thinking of what I can blog about. Hmmm...

Well, I don't know what I want to do when I graduate. I'm supposed to preview at Truett in February to see if I am at all interested in seminary. Sometimes I feel inadequate with that type of thing. Is it weird that I don't feel that way about graduate school? I don't know where I would o if I attended graduate school, but it just seems like the easy way out. People always say to do what will make you happy, and I believe that that is true. I know that Truett sounds like a wonderful opportunity, but I know that I need to preview it before I make up my mind. It sounds so great that those thoughts creep in, saying "You, seminary? Forget it." And that's not the only doubt... what about finally getting on my own 2 feet, with a "real" job? I am excited about finding my place after graduation. It's crazy that it's not that far away, and soon my whole entire adult life will take place. The future used to be something I looked forward to; is it normal to be a little (or a lot) scared? I just needto pray about it. I know that actually going to the preview will help, too. These are my thoughts on my future though. I also don't know where I want to live. I thought I would like San Antonio, but I kind of want to get away from familiarity and explore a little. Somewhere country, with a little bit of city. A pretty view, and an easy trip to the store.... Plus you never know where God will place you... I don't see myself falling in love and getting married anytime soon. As much as I long for a relationship and all... I am not really wanting it right now. I kind of like being independent, doign thigns on my own. Maybe I am selfish with my time? Who knows... But like I said, God has a plan, and it is by far much better (and more secure) than my own. I couldn't be more thankful.

So yeah, these are my ramblings :)

Check!

I finished the research paper I have been putting off for the past month! It only took me 4 hours- that's like record time. Thank goodness for online journals and encyclopedias that my parents have had since I was a toddler! *breath of fresh air!*

There's nothing really new with me right now. I'm wondering what books I should read for the Christmas break. Does anyone have any good suggestions? I want to order them before December 13th, which is destined to be the first day I dive into a good read!

Happy Feet :)

This movie made me laugh because it's a bunch of penguins dancing; if a penguin can dance, so can I!! :) Haha!

I know that I have really needed the Thanksgiving break. It has provided a lot of time to rest and ponder life a little bit. I was thinking about how I get so upset with myself because I am never satisfied. This has been the case mainly because I haven't been satisfied with where I'm at with the Lord, but I was thinking about it, and isn't that a good thing? The fact that I am not satisfied always provides room for seeking Him more. What are your thoughts? How could discontentment play a part in this? When I think of being discontent, I think of circumstances, not the Lord.

Anyways, those are my ramblings.

Here's a random thought- I don't know if San Antonio is where I want to live or not when I graduate.... hmmm. Thank God for having more secure plans than I do! :)

On the road again....

That's right! Only one more meeting and two more classes a way until I'm on the road again!

San Antonio, here I come!!

Dancing makes me happy, too...

I wasn't going to go dancing tonight for a number of reasons, but I am so glad I did. I am getting better and better. Sooo exciting. I think my favoite is the triple two step, waltz, and two step progressive.

This is a picture of the steps to the waltz... it is harder than it looks to think about all that and talk at the same time. Or maybe I'm just weird... :)

If you are easily bored on Friday nights, you should join me one day. It is a blast and the teachers are sooo helpful.

Feel what You feel, Love what You love, go where You go, that's what we want...

Okay. There is something you need to know. Something I need to know. Something we all need to know.

So, being on Revival Steering Committee and MLC, and involved in my local church.. you'd think I would be just fine and dandy with God, right? Well, I think God might just be trying to tell me something right now....

I cried tonight because I realized I was completely wrong, and that I didn't have any ounce of goodness in me. I am trying to walk alone. I am trying to deal with my family being apart, with the war that caused that... trying to deal with friendships that have gone sour, trying to deal with the sin in my life on my own, as if I had the power to fix any of it. It's as if I'm trying to hold all of this in with my hands that are made of ice, and that they're just melting now. It's like God's hands of steel are right in front of me, and I haven't done a thing about it because for some reason I have felt that the ice would never melt or break. It's as if I'm all wrong... because I am.

I haven't kept Christ as the center of my life. I have told myself that I have, and have made it all about me (my decisions, my own doings) in the process. After telling your something that is false repeatedly, you begin to believe it, and then it ends up hitting you all at once.

And then sometimes I think I'm just being an emotional girl, but this stuff matters. It matters that I haven't been taking this seriously, the fact that God controls this, not me, and it would all be fine if I just let Him.

Pray that the dry bones would have life breathed into them. And let me know if you need prayer as well. Seriously. Thanks.

Soooo....

I wish I had something witty to say :)

Well, things are going really good. I am taking my last test before finals in exactly 46 minutes, and I am not worried about it :) I love that feeling. The test is in Classroom Technology (which is a very easy class). I honestly believe that they should no longer have this course as a required class because our generation typically knows a TON about computers. I mean, if you didn't- you're in the minority.

I bought these really cute brown shoes (I never buy shoes, because apparently flip flops don't count) and they gave me the worst blisters. Does anyone know what to do with really cute shoes that give you blisters? I'm thinking of putting some sort of cushion on the part that gives me blisters, but I didn't know if that was safe or not. Any suggestions? Maybe I'll google it.

Well, I'd best go study for that test :)

November! Here's what's new...

I haven't written in a while, and I figured it was time for an update :) We're in November! Isn't it crazy?

Anyways, nothing too interesting has happened in my life lately- but I have had some amazing conversations with some really great friends that have been a blessing in my life this past semester. Who knows how much can change in such a small amount of time? God knows exactly what you need to learn from, teach, or just to encourage and be encouraged. I don't want to brag about these wonderful women of God in my life, but they have been so sweet.

I know that I am not an introverted person, but I am definitely not an extrovert. I'm one of those odd balls that's right in the middle, and I wouldn't like it any other way. I really enjoy investing time into a few friendships; I am not one to scatter myself thin with my friends. Don't get me wrong, I have many "friends", but I am referring to the few that you have in life that you can talk to for hours.

Anyways, now that I've started writing, there's a lot just waiting to go on the screen. I think I'll save it for another post....

Birthday Weekend!

I'm sooo excited about being in my twenties... doesn't that just sound cool? (haha and that question sounds sooo mature ;)

Turning 20!!!

I'm excited :)

My exams are over.

Life is busy yet enjoyable. :)

I have amazing friends.

I have an amazing God.

I am blessed.

From Frazzled to Fabulous :)

So, I'm in what I now call the "bumps" in my college semester. To all of you college students and college alumni... you know what I am talking about. You're having this wonderful semester, you can actually stay up late because you're not doing homework, and then *WAM!* it hits you. You're going so fast that you didn't even notice the huge bump in the road (Bump, meaning the week in your planner that is completely FULL!)

This "bump" week for me is this week, and next week. I have 2 big exams (the kind that determine whether or not you have an A or a B) and a book to read by Friday, plus the homework. Then, next week, I have a SPANISH test, which is an event in itself, because when you have a Spanish test, you have a Spanish workbook, notebook, and biblical commentary to do. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy being a college student, but sometimes you forget what college STUDENT means outside of latenight walks and talks, runs, crazy friends, learning how to dance, ministries, friendships, etc.

I know I will be fine though. The Lord will sustain me throughout this week. He keeps having to grab me and say "Stop panicking, I am here." Today I told the kids at Children's Ministry about Psalm 46, the one that has "Be still and know that I am God". I have to constantly do that. I know that in the grand scheme of things, tests and grades don't really matter, just as long as you pass and get a degree, and even then it's not that big of a deal, in the grand scheme of things... but I want to excel in these things to give all the glory to Him. I have to depend on Him, or I will fail.

Tomorrow morning is our first Revival meeting, bright and early at 7 AM! I'm actually excited. Getting up early will motivate me to study in the time I would be asleep. :)

This all ties together, but I went to Canyon Creek's annual college retreat this weekend, Autumn Runaway. We split up guys and girls, and had a wonderful girl's night :) Our whole retreat was about going from "frazzled to fabulous". It was a very much needed reminder that I can still do things for God and not get stressed out. It's all about depending on Him and not trying to depend on myself, even to get up on time. He's been motivating me to get up :) This semester, I have been getting up 10 minutes before class. CRAZY! Talk about frazzled!! I was constantly in a rush. The past week 1/2, I have been getting up way before my classes, I haven't been late, and I've felt good about it.

I love our King. I'm glad to be His. I'm glad that I can rest in Him, even through the "bumps" of college! (And I hear they don't end after that! Gotta keep resting in Him :)

Wouldn't it be loverly?

I just wanted to put that as my title, because I like the word 'loverly'. It is wonderful :)

We had a short week this week and it was nice. This is the first semester that my classes haven't been too hard, and I actually feel like I have a life. I'm involved in the things I want to be involved in the things I want to be in. College is one of the best times everrrrrrrrrr (yes, it deserves that many R's!). I am having a lot of fun.

Last night me and some girlfriends went to the "Cotton Club" (a big hit with UMHB students on Thurs. nights). I walked in, and there were SO many students. I know almost everyone, and if I didn't know them, I knew of them. It was a little intimidating at first, but after a while it was okay. I prefer the place I went to a couple weeks ago a lot more, it's a much softer atmosphere, and not quite as hectic, but I enjoyed it last night. I line danced and two stepped- I'm learning bit by bit. I can't wait to learn more at the In the Mood Ballroom place again! I never thought I'd look at dancing as so much fun, but it IS! So far, I want to learn how to country western dance better, learn swing!, and learn ballroom. Sound like too much? I don't think so! I think it's becoming a little hobby of mine. It's just fun to follow the lead and the beat, and just go with the music. SO, I am going to buy myself some boots soon!

Oh, fun times. I just thought I would share :)

to ponder and ramble...

Do you ever feel like your life could be a movie, or at least a scene from one?

I felt that way tonight. I babysat today, and overall it was a pretty good day with them. We played a lot of "Thomas the Train" and "Dora" games, as well as read the books. I even caught myself being seriously intrigued by one of our Dora books!

Anyways... the above paragraph wasn't very relevant, and okay, because that's how I talk in person, and you'd probably get either frustrated or amused with me in our conversations... I'm defintely a rambler...

Anyways.. (I promise this time)... I was driving home from babysitting, and it was raining, and I'm beginning to love the rain, and it was just a time for me to think, explore, and enjoy. I loved it. That's when I thought my life could be a scene from a movie. I was thinking about how just a few years ago I was still in high school and thinking "I can't wait to drive to my very own place, after working, going to a play, or [insert mature thing to do here]." Yeah, pretty funny, huh? I seriously thought like that, and for the most part, still do. But I love it.

I'm turning 20 in less than 2 weeks, and while it might not sound like a big number to you, it's huge to me, but at the same time, it really isn't. I really hope that I never lose my childlike thoughts, my joy in life from simple things like rain, my constant ponderings. I hope that I am always like this, because that's what makes my life fun. I never want to lose it. I think God made me like that on purpose, because I can smile because of sOmething "little" He placed in my path. I am excited about turning 20, but the years are becoming nothing more than merely numbers. I hope I still think this way 20 years down the road....

Fall Break

If you don't mind reading about my wonderful fall break...

I have a retreat tomorrow for revival steering committee... in case you haven't heard, I'm extremely excited. I find out which team I am on, as well as who my team partner is! Get excited! It's going to be near Lake Travis, which is beeeautiful! I'm excited. I went there this past summer for camp with my girls, and it was amazing. :)

Then, on Saturday afternoon, I will come back here and head out to San Antonio to see my beautiful mom- and on that note, I'd like to ask for some major prayer. My mom's bone problems have hit what seems to be the peak of all problems. She has now been diagnosed with Osteoporosis, and it's not exactly the best news in the world. PLEASE PRAY. This is so stressful on her (and for anyone) especially since my dad's deployment, and her daughter away from home. Please pray that my time with her would be glorifying to the Lord and that I would be a daughter that serves, not one that gets upset. It's hard to be away and not be there, so this time is cherished.

I love you mom!!

Consistently learning this lesson...

So, yeah. I'm at the end ofm y day and I realize that I haven't been doing what I should. I haven't been depending on God. I haven't been turning my thoughts to Him in ALL that I do. It's become a choice of what I am to give to Him.

For everyone out there that believs the contrary... I struggle with this. I struggle with telling God to get my past something that I KNOW is wrong, such as a hateful thought towards someone/thing. I tend to not ask Him to put me in my place and remind me that it's NOT about the way I feel. It's just about giving Him the glory, in all situations. Where am I at? Well, I am at a place where I know I can conquer daily struggles. When a class doesn't go my way, I get upset with the whole class, not even considering my part in the issue. This is such wrong behavior. I need to set a higher standard for myself. He has conquered the world, and through Him I obtain strength! Right? YES! Now live it, Krista.

Thanks for reading.
On THE journey to live for Him,
Krista Michelle

Oh, Pride and Prejudice...

I'm listening to the beautiful soundtrack of Pride and Prejudice. The music is soooo beautiful, I might have to have one of the songs played at my wedding. Simply beautiful.

Lord, thank You for beautiful music! Thank You for beautiful 80 degree weather. Thank You for sunshine and smiles. Thank you for the breath in my lungs. I love You.

Beautiful Day :)

I had an amazing day yesterday. It was something I really needed, and God reminded me that even though it doesn't seem like things go my way for a certain time, He defintely knows what I need more than I do.

Yesterday I had my normal period of classes, and then me, Lauren, and Alicia all went out to the girls soccer game against UT Tyler. It was way cool! Free hot dogs, spirited fans- it was nice. Then Lauren and I both found out we made Revival Steering Committee, which is a huge deal! We celebrated and spun around and rejoiced! I am looking forward to how God will use me for this huge event.

Then, Lauren and I went Country Western Dancing. Do you know that awkward "I don't know how to dance, I will look stupid if I try" feeling? We felt that way for a good 30 minutes, but for the last 3 hours we were dancing like none other! It was soooo much fun. I want to go back and actually take classes. I was telling Lauren how last night could've been life changing for us- it definitely was! Now I'm not afraid to try! It was sooo much fun just spinning around, stepping the right steps without thinking about it. I love it!

Well, I thought I would share my wonderful day. ) I hope you enjoyed!

HAIR. (Please give input)

If you know me, you know I go through the hair dillemma at least 3 times a year. In case you don't know what I am referring to....

I'm thinking of cutting my hair!

Now, last time I said this, I chickened out and just added layers.... but I really want to do something different.

I wish to leave you with 2 options:

1. Tell me I should keep my long hair.

2. Tell me what kind of cut would look cute!

Thanks y'all!

Beautiful!

I love this picture. Beautiful!

This one's for the girls...

I am so thankful for friends. God has blessed me tremendously. There have been many doors opening to new friendships, as well as the rekindling of old ones. I'm so excited.

I've always desired to walk on campus late at night, when not many people are out, but always kind of felt unsafe because of how dark it gets. Lately I have felt the need to do that, and without me even asking, random friends have asked me to go walking. I'm so excited. Noelle and I went walking tonight. We left at about 10:30 and got back at 12:22! That just shows you how blessed I am. We talked about all that's going on in eachother's lives- Our joys, our fears, etc. (Thanks Noelle!) Noelle, you are so encouraging in my life. Thank you for just offering your experiences in relation to mine, and not judging me when I have something to confess. You are my sister in Christ!

My friend Lauren has been so great and truly listened to me when I talk. Those type of friends are hard to come by, and I'm so very glad that I have a friend in her. I trust her with what is on my heart, and I enjoy her insight. Thanks for relating to me so well!

Stephanie Green- you're wonderful. I'm so glad that we got to talk the other night. You've always been there for me over the years, and I can't wait to see where God leads both of us throught the many years to come. Thank you for your wise words, and witty jokes. :)

All of my friends are wonderful, I just thought I'd highlight a few. It's only Wednesday, and all 3 of these people have blessed me so much throughout this week. Please know that all of you encourage me so much!

God is so good.

Children's Ministry Update

Y'all, I am so blessed, beyond my own comprehension.

Children's Ministry has been so great this year. We have more college kids than little kids each week. That is a BIG deal. This summer, I prayed for these kids, these volunteers, and for just real love to take place. Well, the past couple weeks, I realized that I didn't know all of the volunteers, so tonight we all went to Jaliscos. I'd say there were about 15 of us tonight- it was so much fun, just eating some cheap food, and having some good fellowship. We talked and laughed, and had a good time. God has given in abundance, and my heart is smiling so big right now.

We had a few awkward moments today, like when Hannah dropped her water, when I "asked someone out on a date" (they thought I was asking them to Jaliscos with only me, yeah-awkward).... But I love it! I love awkward momnets, because they are unintentional inside jokes.



Love love love,
Krista Michelle

Catchin' Up

For all you girls out there...

Do you ever let your emotions get the best of you?

I do... and I think it's a huge problem. I know that we all have feelings and that those feelings are important, but I'm sure most of us (or at least myself) get so caught up in those crazy emotions. I don't know much about the male thought process, but from what I hear, guys are pretty good about turning their emotions on or off. I tried to be good at that, and sometimes it works... temporarily. I can turn these emotions off like I am stopping them in their tracks, but they always catch up with me.

I know I may not be making sense, but I'm learning that I have to deal with things. Things for me, being my dad's deployment, my friendships, relationships, academics, and overall just my expectations for myself. If something doesn't turn out my way, I have to deal with it. Not only is it good to deal with these things, but it's becoming a necessity. I find myself becoming overwhelmed when I don't...

I like this blog because it helps me to write out what I am thinking, and it's as if once it's it's all out there it's confirmed.

Thank you for reading my confirmations. :) I hope someone out there can relate!

My Testimony

So, I had to write my testimony for something that I am applying for... I figured it'd be a fun post!

Written Testimony-Krista Michelle


Looking back on my childhood, I remember sitting in the backseat of my parent’s car, looking out the window at everything that was passing by and wondering what it would be like if “nothing” existed. I couldn’t grasp the thought of “nothing” ever existing, and that is when I began to wonder about how everything in the world came about… Did it just appear one day? No. Well who put it here? It had to have been someone…
About 5 years later, my grandma, who was a devout Catholic, lived with my parents and me, and she slept in my room. Every night she would read her Bible and pray prayers. I became very inquisitive about this, because I knew what she was doing had some sort of purpose; she was so devout in this every day. I began to ask her many questions, but I still really didn’t understand anything about God and who He is. My perspective of God at the time was only as an imaginary friend, and I saw “only” because I had many imaginary friends (a completely different story). I used to push the chair out for Jesus at the dinner table, and I very much simply imitated my grandma- I thought that by having the necklace (the rosary) the my grandma did, that somehow I was doing something right, while still having no idea what I was running towards.
In middle school, my best friend Debbie invited me to her church, but I never accepted the offer because I was too scared that I wouldn’t be allowed to because it was in the late evening. It wasn’t until my freshman year of high school, when my friend Kristen invited me to her youth group that my life tremendously changed. I accepted, and when I arrived, I was greeted by a loud band, a bunch of people hanging out in a living room, and the youth minister, Garfield. After a warm welcome, he gladly did a back flip, and I couldn’t believe that we were actually laughing and having fun. I really had no idea what to expect. Well, after that, we had bible study, and I kept hearing about the “good news” and the “gospel”, and I just sat there pretending like I knew what everyone was referring to. I eventually learned more about it from Garfield and his wife, Stephanie, and that is when I learned about Jesus, and why I always saw him on a cross in pictures. I finally knew about His purpose, that He came to die for us, and that He loved me, and He wanted me to devote my life to Him. I finally realized that God is more than just a god that people pray to, but a God that actually loves us, by giving His Son for us, and by giving us the gift of eternal life through His Son. I finally understood that I could have a relationship with Him, and that He would change my life.
My salvation was very gradual- but altogether moving. I began to pray, and truly ask God to come into my life. My mom bought me a Bible, and I would eagerly go home to read it, to see what God was all about. I was later baptized on April 15th, 2001. That event is something I will never forget. God surrounded me, telling me that He loved me. I felt weightless, without a worry in the world. Ever since my salvation, I have had an inner joy that reaches to all the depths of my soul; this joy is indescribable. I still have daily struggles in my goal to daily serve Him, but He keeps reminding me that my satisfaction can only be found in Him.

Phoneathon

So, I'm doing this on-the-side job 3 nights out of the week. It's only for 3 weeks, but it's been going good. It's called the Alumni Phoneathon. I have been calling alumni and asking them for money. Some people tell me I'm crazy, but who knew my telemarketing skills from high school would help me make money in college? It's so much fun doing this, because I'm not selling credit cards, and most of the alumni are extremely generous! Last night I talked to one lady, and she donated $200! I think that's amazing. We had a good conversation about my bassoon playing days and her music career. She lives just down the road and goes to a church right around the corner from mine! It's such a small world, and she really was a sweet lady. I also talked to a guy that graduated in '03 and met his wife here. They are now expecting a baby! That's crazy! We knew the same people, so it felt like talking to a friend I've never met. They were a sweet couple! I sold the 2nd most last night, so I got a gift certificate to the movies!

I'm just really excited about it because it's fun doing that.

I also had my Spanish test today. I did great! I'm really learning more Spanish and I am excited! Mrs. Arnold is a great teacher!

I hope everyone is havign a good week! :)

New Job :)

I already blogged about this, but I never had the chance to write about how it has been going so far! Well, just to let you know- I love it!

I have appointments set up with students already, and I am very excited for the first one! I'm brainstorming right now on how I will help them learn their information. If you know me, you know that I will always use flashcards- forever and ever. Well, I'm going to have flashcards for the students. I am also going to buy a dry erase board so it will be easier to erase, and the constant use of paper and pen won't be frustrating for them.

Isn't God just great? He totally placed this one in my lap. It's perfect because when I am not tutoring, I get to sit in the computer lab and do my own thing, and just enjoy some alone time. If you know me, you know I like 'alone time'.

:) I hope everyone is doing great!!

Night Owl

I have been staying up until 1:00 a lot lately. It has been good, though.

Me and Courtney ran through the sprinklers last night. It was so much fun. I love those moments.

Please pray for me. Something is not good, and I can't quite put my finger on it... Those are the worst. :(

Do you ever feel...

like you have God all figured out?

I do that. A lot. I try to always be 2 steps ahead of Him, trying to predict His next move. I realize that this is totally the wrong way to live.

Sometimes I think I know what He's going to do next FOR me. Why do I do that? Maybe it is a lack of satisfaction? Trust? Both? I need to be rooted in Him with complete satisfaction. I need to trust that He can satisfy my every desire and need.

I have been struggling lately with this. Why can't I just accept His blessings and leave it that? Why do I always have to think there is more?

God,
Teach me to be content with what You have given me. Help me to not look to other things or people for this. I know that You are truth and that there is no other way. Help me to not worry about money, or clothes, or grades, but to completely know that it's in Your hands. To know it and live by knowing it. Not just half-know it. I can determine my steps, but You direct my path LORD. Thank You for adjusting my vision.
Love,
Krista

English! (and other things)

Guess what! I'm going to be an English Tutor... for COLLEGE STUDENTS! I'm excited, and I know you may think that I'm a nerd now, but guess what- I like it!

I really needed a second job, and this is just a huge blessing because not only is it- a) doing what I love (one of the things I love- English!), b) Opening up an opportunity to get to know more college students.... but I don't have to drive anywhere for this! It's an on campus job, and I am sooo excited!

I'm not going to quit babysitting- I love doing that :) I am not putting too much on my plate, either ;) The tutoring job also presents opportunities to do my own homework while I wait for people that need to be tutored!

Anyways, I thought I'd update y'all on that- it was a big deal to me today!

As far as other things are going, they are good. School is very easy this semester, but it's going to get harder. I planned this semester to be my easiest. :) I am enjoying apartment life more and more now, it's starting to become a lot more homey (is that how you spell that? is it even a word? I guess I should know this, being an English tutor and all).

FOCUS was awesome. Matt Chandler was our speaker, and God really used him. (He's going to be our speaker at Revival!!) It was about how as Christians, we shouldn't stay in our little Christian circles. That has been very convicting for me because I somehow assume that everyone here is a Christian, when some are not. How blind can I be? It really convicted me to engage more in conversations and invest in others, and accept people for who they are while showing them the love of the Lord. Another thing we talked about was just loving God. Not thinking we have to do certain things -don't get me wrong: reading, worship music- it's all important-but, our worship should flow into all of our lives, to where we have a true relationship with God and not just some act. An act only makes you think you are in tune with Him, when you are really just deceiving yourself. It's not about action, it's about heart. Now, I know that doing things is important, but it's all in vain if you don't know the Lord. I'm really excited about what the Lord has laid in my heart and it is my desire to live that every day. I don't want to just pass through life doing what a Christian does, but I want to BE it. To some that can be confusing, but think about it.

Anyways, I'm going to go study for my math test tomorrow!! Everyone have a great weekend!

~KQ

P.S.
Please continue to pray for my dad and his unit!

FOCUS

Please pray for myself, as well as the other students in Texas that are attending the Focus Conference ( http://www.focus2k6.org/ ). I know God will be present and I hope to learn something!
Thanks!

SO, about that cooking and baking...

Okay, maybe some of you more experienced cooks can answer my question...

I know in my last post I had a short ramble of my newly found hobby of baking and cooking. Now, "Shake 'N Bake" has to be one of the easiest things you can do, right? (Give me a break, I'm a college student, and I had to do it before my night class tonight ;) Well.. me and Brittany were baking our chicken drumsticks, covered with shake n' bake crumbs, and I opened it up, just to take a peek... Well, these drumsticks were GUSHING with blood. I'm sorry if that makes your stomach twist. Yes, it was disgusting.... but... it was disgusting. Not knowing what to do, I called my mom, and her suggestion was to cook them longer, because they obviously weren't done. Well, we did, got them out, they were still gushing. ;) What do we do? We cook them longer, meanwhile eating the sides: rice and corn. Well... we took them out, cut 'em open, and I thought they looked fine. So, I ate one, and avoided the gushing part... Let's hope I don't die tonight...

So, can anyone solve the bloody drumstick mystery? Did I do something wrong? I bought them at Wal-Mart, which could mean something... or was the chiken just bad?

Any suggestions?

Confused and wondering,
Anti-Bloody Chicken

How Things Are Going...

I think life is good.

I got my first ticket the other day. At first I was very angry, and bitter, but now I'm just taking it for what it is. (It was not a speeding ticket, I supposedly ran a stop sign :( ) I go to defensive driving with Rachel, because she got a ticket a while back, so we're going to Golden Corral and we get to eat while we take the class. Hey, that's nice!

Anyways... School has started and it has to be the easiest semester yet. I'm taking 15 hours and I have one night class. It's fun.

We are in our apartment and I cook and bake. It is amazing, let me tell you. To be able to cook your own food, that almost makes me a real adult!

Seriously, all I have after this is next year and then I'm a teacher. That's crazy. Hopefully these next couple years prepare me.

Well, I know this is boring.... so I think I am done. :)

Wonderful Things

Yes, wonderful.

We had our Children's Ministry meeting last Thursday, and it was a good turn out. We had about 10 students show that were interested. We went out to the apartments so they could meet the kids, and it was soooo good. The kids loved to see them, and I am so excited about this year.

3 of the kids accepted the Lord over the summer, and I am so happy! That was such good news. There is more to the story, too. Their mom, who is in prison right now, acceptedc the Lord was well- because her kids were so excited about God, and she wanted that.

Praise God!