Jamie posted this on her blog, After watching this video clip and reading the prayer, I felt encouraged. Check it out for yourself... I encourage you to read the prayer as you listen to it...
Here is the full text of the prayer:
Please join me for the next few moments in our Benediction.
"Father God,
This week, as the world looks on, help the leaders in this room create a civil dialogue about our future.
We need you, God, as individuals and also as a nation.
We need you to protect us from our enemies, but also from ourselves, because we are easily tempted toward apathy.
Give us a passion to advance opportunities for the least of these, for widows and orphans, for single moms and children whose fathers have left.
Give us the eyes to see them, and the ears to hear them, and hands willing to serve them.
Help us serve people, not just causes. And stand up to specific injustices rather than vague notions.
Give those in this room who have power, along with those who will meet next week, the courage to work together to finally provide health care to those who don’t have any, and a living wage so families can thrive rather than struggle.
Hep us figure out how to pay teachers what they deserve and give children an equal opportunity to get a college education.
Help us figure out the balance between economic opportunity and corporate gluttony.
We have tried to solve these problems ourselves but they are still there. We need your help.
Father, will you restore our moral standing in the world.
A lot of people don’t like us but that’s because they don’t know the heart of the average American.
Will you give us favor and forgiveness, along with our allies around the world.
Help us be an example of humility and strength once again.
Lastly, father, unify us.
Even in our diversity help us see how much we have in common.
And unify us not just in our ideas and in our sentiments—but in our actions, as we look around and figure out something we can do to help create an America even greater than the one we have come to cherish.
God we know that you are good.
Thank you for blessing us in so many ways as Americans.
I make these requests in the name of your son, Jesus, who gave his own life against the forces of injustice.
Let Him be our example.
Amen."
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
That's What I Said...
I discovered Wordie just a few days ago. It's awesome. Try it. Use it. Love it. This is what my blog has been saying lately..
Monday, August 25, 2008
But You Have To Remember...
I will be the first to admit that I really don't have the best memory. I wish I did--but I don't. I often forget if I've told people certain things or they swear they told me a story about something and I just don't remember. Bottom line--I will need to make sure I do a lot of Sudoku to keep my mind active when I'm old to make sure I don't loose the memory that I do have...
All that said, I often have to try hard to remember certain things. For the past few years, as each new season begins, I do a personal reflection of my life and the things that have happened over the past few months. I make bullet points both about the things I learned and the things I did. It's quite fun to now look back to when I was in college and read my reflections at the close of each semester.
The point of these reflections are two fold--one is to simply remember all of the fun and random things I did and two, to remember God's faithfulness throughout each season of my life. As I look back I am reminded of the things I learned through both really good and incredibly difficult times. Lucky for me, the good outweighs the bad, and in the end God was consistently faithful through it all.
It's good to remember God's faithfulness in my life. It's good to remember the difficult and painful times and to see how God walked me through it. It's good to remember that I don't stand alone in life. It's good to remember that no matter how many times I turn away, God relentlessly pursues me back to Him. It's good to remember that I am incredibly blessed by good people in my life who love God and love me. It's good to remember that love wins--and love conquers fear.
What things do you look back and remember? What things is God healing you from? By looking back, what has God taught you? These are all questions I'm asking myself too...
If I don't make myself remember....I will forget...and I don't want to forget this...
All that said, I often have to try hard to remember certain things. For the past few years, as each new season begins, I do a personal reflection of my life and the things that have happened over the past few months. I make bullet points both about the things I learned and the things I did. It's quite fun to now look back to when I was in college and read my reflections at the close of each semester.
The point of these reflections are two fold--one is to simply remember all of the fun and random things I did and two, to remember God's faithfulness throughout each season of my life. As I look back I am reminded of the things I learned through both really good and incredibly difficult times. Lucky for me, the good outweighs the bad, and in the end God was consistently faithful through it all.
It's good to remember God's faithfulness in my life. It's good to remember the difficult and painful times and to see how God walked me through it. It's good to remember that I don't stand alone in life. It's good to remember that no matter how many times I turn away, God relentlessly pursues me back to Him. It's good to remember that I am incredibly blessed by good people in my life who love God and love me. It's good to remember that love wins--and love conquers fear.
What things do you look back and remember? What things is God healing you from? By looking back, what has God taught you? These are all questions I'm asking myself too...
If I don't make myself remember....I will forget...and I don't want to forget this...
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Chicken Fried...
I really like THIS song. I think the reason I like it so much is because of the simplicity of life that they sing about. Now, is it a little cheesy...? Maybe. But is there is a lot of truth in this song...? I think so. **Fair warning that this is a country song, so if you're not a country fan at all, don't say I didn't warn you (this warning was mainly for Lisa :)
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Happy Birthday Jen!!
Today is Jen's 24th birthday.
We have now officially known one another and been friends for over half of our lives. Wow. As I thought about what I wanted to include in this post, lots and lots of memories began to flood my mind. This girl is more then just a friend...she is the one who knows me better than anyone else, can understand and describe how I'm feeling even when I can't. She's the one I laugh the hardest with, eat the most with :) and have shared countless conversations that have challenged, encouraged and brought both tears and laughter (often at the same time!).
There really are no words to describe how blessed I feel to have Jen in my life. Even though I count her as my best friend, she is family to me and my family. We are so different in many ways, but I think our differences are what makes us such good friends. She can speak into my life like no one else can and when she gives me "that look" and get serious I know I better listen up--and whatever advice she gives me, I gotta admit, she's usually right...
So today is YOUR day J.lo (and I can't quite remember when I gave you that nickname...but it sure has stuck!) so I hope you eat lots of good food, enjoy a few Funfetti cupcakes and know that I praise God for who you are and for the countless blessings you have brought to my life.
Here's to 24 and moving on...
143!
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Saturday, August 9, 2008
I love when friends visit!
1. I love when friends visit
2. I love having a spare bedroom with an extra bed where they can sleep
3. I love catching up and being able to pick up right were we left off.
This picture below was taken my sophomore year of college. Chelsey (the one on my right) is from Oregon so when we were in college the four of us girls took a road trip over spring break to Oregon. Chelsey is in town because Courtney (the one on my left) is getting married today! We're driving to the wedding and meeting up with Kris there too (she's the one on the far right). I love these girls.
2. I love having a spare bedroom with an extra bed where they can sleep
3. I love catching up and being able to pick up right were we left off.
This picture below was taken my sophomore year of college. Chelsey (the one on my right) is from Oregon so when we were in college the four of us girls took a road trip over spring break to Oregon. Chelsey is in town because Courtney (the one on my left) is getting married today! We're driving to the wedding and meeting up with Kris there too (she's the one on the far right). I love these girls.
Friday, August 8, 2008
"You are worth dying for..."
I found this while going through a few of the "Thoughts From The Throne" writings that I did last year. I reread a few of them and this section stuck out to me. Young and old alike...sometimes it's hard to remember this...
You are good enough exactly as you are. Do you believe this? Because it’s true. You have limitless worth and value. If you embrace this truth, it will affect every area of your life. You are worth dying for. Your worth does not come from your body, your mind, your work, what you produce, what you put out, or how much money you make. Your worth does not come from what you do but from who God is. You don’t have to earn God’s love—you can’t. You’re already loved—deeply.
For some this idea of God’s infinite love can be hard to swallow. I encourage you to really think about how valuable you are in God’s sight and how His love for you will not change.
People will change.
Circumstances will change.
Life will change.
God’s love for you will never change.
Just think about it…
You are good enough exactly as you are. Do you believe this? Because it’s true. You have limitless worth and value. If you embrace this truth, it will affect every area of your life. You are worth dying for. Your worth does not come from your body, your mind, your work, what you produce, what you put out, or how much money you make. Your worth does not come from what you do but from who God is. You don’t have to earn God’s love—you can’t. You’re already loved—deeply.
For some this idea of God’s infinite love can be hard to swallow. I encourage you to really think about how valuable you are in God’s sight and how His love for you will not change.
People will change.
Circumstances will change.
Life will change.
God’s love for you will never change.
Just think about it…
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Campus Life Volunteer Reunion!
Friday night was the 2nd annual Youth for Christ Campus Life volunteer reunion. It started off with dinner at Shanghai and then moved to Derek's house for dessert and some classic Campus Life games (including "Big Booty" and a new game I introduced called "Trigger"). It was a great time, with lots of laughter, sarcastic comments (because Jesse, myself and Steve were all there!) and lots of shared memories relived. Throughout the night I was reminded how God uses us in different seasons of our life and takes us all in different directions. It really was a fun night....and I ate a really awesome ice cream sundae for dessert! Good people and good food...can't beat that!
The Whole Gang (at least those who could make it!) We're missing about 6-8 other volunteers!
Volunteers from when Jesse was the CL Director. Above includes Derek, Me, Jesse and Steve (we're missing Stacey!)
Volunteers from when I was the CL Director. Above includes Derek, Me and Steve...but we're missing J.lo and Sarah White :)
All five directors are present above spanning the years from 2000-Now. Ranae, Derek, Me, Jesse and Lisa.
Looking up to the ones who went before us!
The Whole Gang (at least those who could make it!) We're missing about 6-8 other volunteers!
Volunteers from when Jesse was the CL Director. Above includes Derek, Me, Jesse and Steve (we're missing Stacey!)
Volunteers from when I was the CL Director. Above includes Derek, Me and Steve...but we're missing J.lo and Sarah White :)
All five directors are present above spanning the years from 2000-Now. Ranae, Derek, Me, Jesse and Lisa.
Looking up to the ones who went before us!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
National Cheesecake Day!
Yes, today was National Cheesecake Day. In honor of this wonderful day, the Cheesecake Factory had $1.50 cheesecake--any kind you wanted! So Steph and I met up there and both enjoyed a slice of heaven. I had the peanut butter chocolate cheesecake and she had the white chocolate raspberry cheesecake. Of course we each sampled the other and both were oh so good!
Enjoying cheesecake with a good friend...it was a wonderful evening full of laughter, good and random discussions and heart level conversations. Did I mention the cheesecake was only $1.50?!?
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Every time I go to the gym....
I think about what I'm going to eat after my workout. It helps me get through it and makes my workout feel totally worth it! Anyone else do this...or do I stand alone..?
Sunday, July 27, 2008
If I had to chose I'd rather be angry than apathetic...
This thought has been on my mind a lot lately. I read this paragraph below, written by a college pastor and even though I'm not a college pastor, I really resonated with what he said. I often see apathy in the lives of people who feel that they've done the "church thing" for so long, it's become old to them (I myself dabbled with this apathy for a while). Their spiritual life dies to the lure of new and exciting experiences that are presented to them during and even after college.
I've often said and believe that being angry isn't the worst thing that can happen to a person...it's being apathetic. Whether it's being apathetic at work, in marriage, with the church or with other people, apathy can really be the demise of a person and their relationships. Even though staying angry is never good, at least if you're angry then that's a sign that you care about what's going on and you don't like it...
"People talk so much about how many teenagers walk away from their faith their freshman year of college (common estimates are around 80% who stop going to church after high school). But as a college pastor, the greater concern for me is college students who lose their faith after leaving college. Don't get me wrong, they might still attend church and be nice people raising nice kids. But they have lost all risk to their faith. Their passion for Jesus is cold. The local church is not central to their affections. They don't think about living strategically, giving sacrificially, and investing their talents wisely. They aren't praying for revival in their neighborhoods, workplaces, families, churches... that was for a phase back in college. The dream of being a success quickly replaces the passion to be a blessing."
I've often said and believe that being angry isn't the worst thing that can happen to a person...it's being apathetic. Whether it's being apathetic at work, in marriage, with the church or with other people, apathy can really be the demise of a person and their relationships. Even though staying angry is never good, at least if you're angry then that's a sign that you care about what's going on and you don't like it...
"People talk so much about how many teenagers walk away from their faith their freshman year of college (common estimates are around 80% who stop going to church after high school). But as a college pastor, the greater concern for me is college students who lose their faith after leaving college. Don't get me wrong, they might still attend church and be nice people raising nice kids. But they have lost all risk to their faith. Their passion for Jesus is cold. The local church is not central to their affections. They don't think about living strategically, giving sacrificially, and investing their talents wisely. They aren't praying for revival in their neighborhoods, workplaces, families, churches... that was for a phase back in college. The dream of being a success quickly replaces the passion to be a blessing."
Put These On Your Grocery List...
Foods that fight aging...
1. Nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
2. Fish (salmon, tuna)
3. Olive oil
4. Legumes (beans: black or soy)
5. Whole grains
6. Low fat dairy
7. Healthy greens (all those good green vegetables)
8. Tomatoes
9. Berries (packed with anti-oxidants)
10. Green tea
My friend Jamie must eat a lot of these foods...or it may just be her good Italian genes...
1. Nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
2. Fish (salmon, tuna)
3. Olive oil
4. Legumes (beans: black or soy)
5. Whole grains
6. Low fat dairy
7. Healthy greens (all those good green vegetables)
8. Tomatoes
9. Berries (packed with anti-oxidants)
10. Green tea
My friend Jamie must eat a lot of these foods...or it may just be her good Italian genes...
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
If Not on the 3rd...Forget the 4th...
Tonight I was watching "Must Love Kids" on TLC. It's a show about three single moms who all have children and are looking to get out and start dating again. It's quite funny actually.
One of the guys on the show said one of his philosophies of dating is "No kissing on the 3rd date...no 4th date...
As I watch these women date different men it makes me feel uncomfortable for them! Some of the dates are pretty awkward! And I'm not a fan of awkward dates...
One of the guys on the show said one of his philosophies of dating is "No kissing on the 3rd date...no 4th date...
As I watch these women date different men it makes me feel uncomfortable for them! Some of the dates are pretty awkward! And I'm not a fan of awkward dates...
Yes...What He Said...
A few days ago I redecorated my office. I printed out some great pictures I've taken of students and with students and enlarged them, printed them in black and white and framed them. But the focal point of the wall is this quote. I bought a magnet that has this quote on it and I simply photo copied it and enlarged it and it looked great--and really artsy.
"To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded." --Ralph Waldo Emerson
I hope at the end of my life I will have succeeded...
You should come check out my office.
"To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded." --Ralph Waldo Emerson
I hope at the end of my life I will have succeeded...
You should come check out my office.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Ummmm...
It's the middle of July...
And it was 87 degrees yesterday...
And I live in Fresno California...
Strange? I think so...
But I'm not complaining. Not at all.
And it was 87 degrees yesterday...
And I live in Fresno California...
Strange? I think so...
But I'm not complaining. Not at all.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
The Best Years of Your Life...
Brad Paisley wrote a song entitled "Letter to Me". The first lines of the song say: "If I could write a letter to me I'd send it back in time to myself at seventeen..."
Then later in the song he says "Have no fear these are no where near the best years of your life..."
So that got me thinking...when are the best years of your life? Is it when you're a teenager? Is it when you retire? People often tell me that my age right now is the best time of life... hmmmm...
I can't deny the fact that I do have a pretty great life. I really do enjoy the season of life that I'm in right now...I'm having so much fun! However, Jen and I were talking about this recently and we both agreed that life seems to get better each year. Maybe better isn't the right word... maybe the different seasons of life can't be compared to one another...
But all this begs the question...when do you think are best years of life?
Then later in the song he says "Have no fear these are no where near the best years of your life..."
So that got me thinking...when are the best years of your life? Is it when you're a teenager? Is it when you retire? People often tell me that my age right now is the best time of life... hmmmm...
I can't deny the fact that I do have a pretty great life. I really do enjoy the season of life that I'm in right now...I'm having so much fun! However, Jen and I were talking about this recently and we both agreed that life seems to get better each year. Maybe better isn't the right word... maybe the different seasons of life can't be compared to one another...
But all this begs the question...when do you think are best years of life?
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Nelson Mandela: The Secrets of Leadership
This is from Time magazine..."8 lessons from one of History's Icons". Some of these really resonated with me...
1. Courage is not the absence of fear--it's inspiring others to move beyond it.
2. Lead from the front--but don't leave your base behind.
3. Lead from the back--and let others believe they are in front.
4. Know your enemy--and learn about his favorite sport.
5. Keep your friends close--and your rivals ever closer.
6. Apperances matter--and remember to smile.
7. Nothing is black or white--life is never either/or.
8. Quitting is leading too--knowing how to abandon a failed idea, task or relationship is often the most difficult kind of decision a leader has to make.
1. Courage is not the absence of fear--it's inspiring others to move beyond it.
2. Lead from the front--but don't leave your base behind.
3. Lead from the back--and let others believe they are in front.
4. Know your enemy--and learn about his favorite sport.
5. Keep your friends close--and your rivals ever closer.
6. Apperances matter--and remember to smile.
7. Nothing is black or white--life is never either/or.
8. Quitting is leading too--knowing how to abandon a failed idea, task or relationship is often the most difficult kind of decision a leader has to make.
They're Married!
Have you ever been to a wedding where, as you watched the ceremony take place, it all just felt so right? That's how it felt last night at Sarah and Jameson's wedding. They both have blessed so many people through ministry as individuals and I truly believe they will bless even more now that they're a "team".
Congrats Sarah and Jameson!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Friday, July 11, 2008
I Have A Dream...
Or I should say, I had a dream...last night. It was short and quite strange...
I dreamt that I saw two scorpions crawling on the floor in my bedroom. They were slow moving so I grabbed a can of Raid and doused them in it hoping to kill them. But as I sprayed them with the Raid they started multiplying...like they were having babies!
That's all I remember. I just hope this doesn't mean I have scorpions lurking somewhere in my apartment...
I dreamt that I saw two scorpions crawling on the floor in my bedroom. They were slow moving so I grabbed a can of Raid and doused them in it hoping to kill them. But as I sprayed them with the Raid they started multiplying...like they were having babies!
That's all I remember. I just hope this doesn't mean I have scorpions lurking somewhere in my apartment...
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
"Sweet Home Alabama..." I mean Fresno...
Home, sweet home. Got back from D.C./New York this evening. On the flight home I was thinking about what things I would blog about from my time in D.C./New York such as...what things I learned...what things I saw...what things puzzled me...what things made me think...and what things encouraged me...
There is a lot. So slowly but surely I'll post some thoughts and pictures (and MAYBE a video or two...) For now, here are a few things that have been running through my mind as I traveled about...
1. I would not have a gym membership if I lived in D.C. Walking alone was enough to kick my butt on some days.
2. Traveling shouldn't be looked at as a luxury but rather a necessity to better understand oneself and the people and places in the world around us.
3. Fresno needs some kind of railway public transit system! The metro system in D.C. is phenomenal. And the benefits of having such a system are plentiful.
4. I do not like humidity. I would take the dry heat any day over humidity. Hands down.
5. There are a lot of people who are attractive and educated who live in D.C... That's all I'm going to say about that... :)
6. History comes alive when you get to see and experience the things that were taught in U.S. history class.
7. You eat a lot when on vacation and I'm okay with that.
8. Coming home was a bit strange for me. I don't know why, but for whatever reason, it was.
9. One should not try to jump onto the metro as the doors are shutting and the woman's automated voice has said: "Step back the doors are closing" The doors are not on censors and will close ON you! Right D?
10. Because of this trip and the opportunity I have to travel. I am reminded, once again, of how truly blessed I am.
There is a lot. So slowly but surely I'll post some thoughts and pictures (and MAYBE a video or two...) For now, here are a few things that have been running through my mind as I traveled about...
1. I would not have a gym membership if I lived in D.C. Walking alone was enough to kick my butt on some days.
2. Traveling shouldn't be looked at as a luxury but rather a necessity to better understand oneself and the people and places in the world around us.
3. Fresno needs some kind of railway public transit system! The metro system in D.C. is phenomenal. And the benefits of having such a system are plentiful.
4. I do not like humidity. I would take the dry heat any day over humidity. Hands down.
5. There are a lot of people who are attractive and educated who live in D.C... That's all I'm going to say about that... :)
6. History comes alive when you get to see and experience the things that were taught in U.S. history class.
7. You eat a lot when on vacation and I'm okay with that.
8. Coming home was a bit strange for me. I don't know why, but for whatever reason, it was.
9. One should not try to jump onto the metro as the doors are shutting and the woman's automated voice has said: "Step back the doors are closing" The doors are not on censors and will close ON you! Right D?
10. Because of this trip and the opportunity I have to travel. I am reminded, once again, of how truly blessed I am.
Saturday, July 5, 2008
"Jenny From The Block"...NYC Here We Come!
Derek, Lisa and I are on a bus right now heading to New York City! It's a little after 5:30am California time, and we've had very full days while we were in D.C. Lots of stories, pictures and random top ten lists to come...and maybe a few short videos... There is Wi-Fi on the bus (which is amazing!) so the 4 hour ride is a little more bearable.
Here are just a few highlights from the past few days in D.C....
--The people we're staying with! They are awesome and so much fun. We're staying with Lisa's friend Tristan (who she only met once and talked to for a few hours--but he opened his place to us!) He has a few roommates who are fun and very welcoming.
--Watching the fireworks on a rooftop in the heart of D.C. I LOVE 4th of July and I REALLY loved the 4th of July in D.C.
--The metro rides--always interesting...always.
--The history. You learn about all the monuments, museums, buildings, memorials and presidents in history class, but it changes things when you actually see and experience these things in person.
--The people. Lots of young people (between 21-30) live in the city. Very fun atmosphere.
--My plane buddy John. He was traveling back to D.C. and was a really cool guy who was going in the same direction we were so he helped us make sure we got on the right bus and metro so we wouldn't get lost!
--Lots of exercise--we walk a lot. And I mean A LOT. It brings back lots of memories of my time backpacking in Europe.
We still have two more days in D.C. when we return from New York so we still have lots more to see and do! I'm going to try and catch a nap on the bus now! More to come soon!
Here are just a few highlights from the past few days in D.C....
--The people we're staying with! They are awesome and so much fun. We're staying with Lisa's friend Tristan (who she only met once and talked to for a few hours--but he opened his place to us!) He has a few roommates who are fun and very welcoming.
--Watching the fireworks on a rooftop in the heart of D.C. I LOVE 4th of July and I REALLY loved the 4th of July in D.C.
--The metro rides--always interesting...always.
--The history. You learn about all the monuments, museums, buildings, memorials and presidents in history class, but it changes things when you actually see and experience these things in person.
--The people. Lots of young people (between 21-30) live in the city. Very fun atmosphere.
--My plane buddy John. He was traveling back to D.C. and was a really cool guy who was going in the same direction we were so he helped us make sure we got on the right bus and metro so we wouldn't get lost!
--Lots of exercise--we walk a lot. And I mean A LOT. It brings back lots of memories of my time backpacking in Europe.
We still have two more days in D.C. when we return from New York so we still have lots more to see and do! I'm going to try and catch a nap on the bus now! More to come soon!
Monday, June 30, 2008
For Dani: 42 Things I Love About Summer...
1. Sleeping in
2. Laying Out on rafts in the pool with Jen
3. BBQs with friends
4. Swimming
5. Going to the lake
6. More time with friends
7. Traveling, traveling and more traveling!
8. Shaved Ice
9. Staying up late
10. Summer nights
11. Late evening walks (and it's still light out!)
12. Fireworks on the 4th of July
13. Baseball (Go FSU!)
14. The Beach
15. The peacefulness of the campus at FPU
16. Late night ice cream runs
17. The smell of barbecue in the air
18. Catching fireflies (only in the mid-west though)
19. Picnics
20. Volleyball
21. The smell of a summer night
22. Grilled pineapple
23. Road Trips
24. House-Sitting
25. Staying up late, laying on the grass, looking up at the stars
26. Late night tennis playing
27. Ice cream--any kind and any time
28. Having time to catch up with old friends
29. Corn on the cob
30. Summertime salads
31. The smell of sunblock
32. Running through the sprinklers (when I was younger of course :)
33. The feeling of complete freedom for a small chunk of time
34. Camping
35. Flip flops
36. Juicy watermelon
37. The Olympics (every four years that is)
38. Pedicures
39. Youth group trips (some good memories in that old church van...)
40. Doing nothing and not feeling guilty about it!
41. No school!
42. Lemonade stands
And of course reason #43: the fresh and juicy valley fruit (peaches, plums, nectarines, pluots...)
I think some (Dani *cough cough*) doubted that I actually had 42 reasons why I loved summer... but I think I could keep going with reasons...what's there not to love about summer? Okay, the intense heat in the valley is something I could live without! And Dani, I do forgive you for doubting me :)
2. Laying Out on rafts in the pool with Jen
3. BBQs with friends
4. Swimming
5. Going to the lake
6. More time with friends
7. Traveling, traveling and more traveling!
8. Shaved Ice
9. Staying up late
10. Summer nights
11. Late evening walks (and it's still light out!)
12. Fireworks on the 4th of July
13. Baseball (Go FSU!)
14. The Beach
15. The peacefulness of the campus at FPU
16. Late night ice cream runs
17. The smell of barbecue in the air
18. Catching fireflies (only in the mid-west though)
19. Picnics
20. Volleyball
21. The smell of a summer night
22. Grilled pineapple
23. Road Trips
24. House-Sitting
25. Staying up late, laying on the grass, looking up at the stars
26. Late night tennis playing
27. Ice cream--any kind and any time
28. Having time to catch up with old friends
29. Corn on the cob
30. Summertime salads
31. The smell of sunblock
32. Running through the sprinklers (when I was younger of course :)
33. The feeling of complete freedom for a small chunk of time
34. Camping
35. Flip flops
36. Juicy watermelon
37. The Olympics (every four years that is)
38. Pedicures
39. Youth group trips (some good memories in that old church van...)
40. Doing nothing and not feeling guilty about it!
41. No school!
42. Lemonade stands
And of course reason #43: the fresh and juicy valley fruit (peaches, plums, nectarines, pluots...)
I think some (Dani *cough cough*) doubted that I actually had 42 reasons why I loved summer... but I think I could keep going with reasons...what's there not to love about summer? Okay, the intense heat in the valley is something I could live without! And Dani, I do forgive you for doubting me :)
Sunday, June 29, 2008
One thing I would miss if I ever moved out of California...
is the fruit. Especially in the summer. Strawberries. White and Yellow Peaches. Nectarines. Plums and Pluots. I love them all. I had some delicious fresh fruit tonight at a BBQ with some good friends and it was so, so good. The fruit was almost as good as the company...almost.
I freely admit that I think, okay actually I am pretty darn sure, I take for granted the quality and variety of fruit we have at our fingertips here in the valley.
Ahhh...so good. Reason #43 why I love summer.
I freely admit that I think, okay actually I am pretty darn sure, I take for granted the quality and variety of fruit we have at our fingertips here in the valley.
Ahhh...so good. Reason #43 why I love summer.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Lots and Lots of Bubbles!
Tonight I went to Turlock to spend some time and catch up with my friend Steph. Steph and I went to FPU together...we were RAs together for a year and she lived with me and my family the summer after we graduated college. She is getting married in November, so tonight I got the chance to hang out with her and her incredibly fun fiance Drew.
And we made bubbles...
Steph is student teaching for a 1st grade class and this is their last week of school. So tomorrow they are going to do a science experiment with bubbles. She needed a lot of "bubble mix" and the way to get the really big bubbles (so I learned tonight) is to make your own concoction of bubble mix! So the three of us went to the store and bought Dawn soap, distilled water and glycerin. Glycerin is kind of hard to find...we went to three drug stores looking for it, but we finally found it and took it home to make the mix!
It worked great and I know that the three of us had a blast goofing off, making bubbles and getting excited about it all, so I know her 1st graders are going to love it too!
Bubble Making....random? Yes. But lots of fun? For sure!
"This is how God does things..."
“It is always the simple things that change our lives. And these things never happen when you are looking for them to happen. Life will reveal answers at the pace life wishes to do so. You feel like running, but life is on a stroll. This is how God does things.”
--Donald Miller--
--Donald Miller--
Monday, June 23, 2008
Dinner Tonight...
was incredibly enjoyable and delicious. Jen and I made dinner together and boy did we chow down! We made...
--Sauteed chicken with grilled onions and spices
--Grilled vegetables (asparagus with Parmesan cheese, zucchini and yellow squash)
--Bean salad (Jen's creation--so good!)
--Garlic cheese bread
--Sweet Potatoes
--Baked Apple with cinnamon and sugar
Dessert: Swirl pudding cups. The perfect end to a GREAT meal.
We talked, ate, laugh, ate, pondered things and ate some more. The food was not only good for the belly but the time and conversation together was good for the soul.
And we went on a walk after dinner to help digest all that food! And Jen almost got us hit by a car...good thing I grabbed her arm and saved us :) Right, J.lo?
Again I'll say it...I love summer and I really love summer nights.
--Sauteed chicken with grilled onions and spices
--Grilled vegetables (asparagus with Parmesan cheese, zucchini and yellow squash)
--Bean salad (Jen's creation--so good!)
--Garlic cheese bread
--Sweet Potatoes
--Baked Apple with cinnamon and sugar
Dessert: Swirl pudding cups. The perfect end to a GREAT meal.
We talked, ate, laugh, ate, pondered things and ate some more. The food was not only good for the belly but the time and conversation together was good for the soul.
And we went on a walk after dinner to help digest all that food! And Jen almost got us hit by a car...good thing I grabbed her arm and saved us :) Right, J.lo?
Again I'll say it...I love summer and I really love summer nights.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Love This Family!!
Though this picture may be a little small... this is no small family! The Obwald Family has grown over the years and I've been blessed to see it happen over time! I met Dave and Erin when they didn't have any kids and Dave was an RD at Fresno Pacific while I was a student. Five years later they now have three kids and I had the privilege of working along side Dave for two years as we both served as RDs at FPU.
This family is great. Seriously. Dave and Erin are two of the most authentic people I've ever met. Dave is now the Director of Connections at The Well Community Church. Though I and many others were sad to see him and his family leave FPU, I have no doubt God will be using their whole family in big ways as they minister and serve so many at The Well.
I had the opportunity to catch up with Dave for a little bit after service today at church and it was great. I'm really going to miss working with him--but all good things come to an end and new good things begin.
Thanks Dave and Erin for all you've added and given to the lives of so many at FPU...mine included. Your influence and impact is truly priceless!
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Could It Get Any Better?
I really like waffles. And I really like ice cream. So the thought of combining the two sounded heavenly. I saw this on Food Network and thought it was pure genius. It was so genius I had to make one myself. So I got out my waffle maker and scooped ice cream onto the warm crisp waffle...needless to say it was absolutely delicious!
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
I Love Having Friends I Can Dance With...
And my personal favorite...
Double click on the picture to see it better. I recognize not everyone may want to! :)
The Lord is Preparing Me...
for a future with insects and spiders. I'm convinced of it.
Let's take a trip down memory lane.
1. THIS bug was found in my apartment...on my leg nonetheless. And I screamed like a little girl who just got her ice cream stolen from her.
2. Then there was THIS rodent problem...not quite an insect or spider, but still a living thing that was in my apartment that I CLEARLY did not want there. And again, when I saw it run across my kitchen floor for the first time I also screamed like a little girl, but this time as though I had my fingers slammed in the car door.
3. Then there was THIS incident where the black widow jumped out at me from the cabinet with my pots and pans. I reached down to grab a pot to start dinner and BAM...she jumps out at me and makes me almost fall over. This time I didn't scream, but I almost yelled a few choice words...
4. Next there was the time I purchased a bed frame and opened the box to set it up, only to find cockroaches coming out of the box!! And no, not the little baby cockroaches...I'm talking about the grandma and grandpa's of cockroaches. This time I did scream like a little girl and started stopping them...it looked like I was doing the Irish Jig.
5. And last night...as I was taking the trash out at the house I'm house sitting at, I reach to grab the handle, only to feel a spider web so I quickly moved my hand back and look down to see another black widow! I debated on methods of how to kill it and decided against the "take off my flip flop and smack the life out of it" and decided to grab a can of Raid. I sprayed that sucker the way a bride sprays her hair on her wedding day. Needless to say the Raid won that battle.
All this to say that I'm pretty certain, someway...somehow...the good Lord is preparing me for a future with bugs/insects/rodents...
And I'm really not sure how I feel about this...
Let's take a trip down memory lane.
1. THIS bug was found in my apartment...on my leg nonetheless. And I screamed like a little girl who just got her ice cream stolen from her.
2. Then there was THIS rodent problem...not quite an insect or spider, but still a living thing that was in my apartment that I CLEARLY did not want there. And again, when I saw it run across my kitchen floor for the first time I also screamed like a little girl, but this time as though I had my fingers slammed in the car door.
3. Then there was THIS incident where the black widow jumped out at me from the cabinet with my pots and pans. I reached down to grab a pot to start dinner and BAM...she jumps out at me and makes me almost fall over. This time I didn't scream, but I almost yelled a few choice words...
4. Next there was the time I purchased a bed frame and opened the box to set it up, only to find cockroaches coming out of the box!! And no, not the little baby cockroaches...I'm talking about the grandma and grandpa's of cockroaches. This time I did scream like a little girl and started stopping them...it looked like I was doing the Irish Jig.
5. And last night...as I was taking the trash out at the house I'm house sitting at, I reach to grab the handle, only to feel a spider web so I quickly moved my hand back and look down to see another black widow! I debated on methods of how to kill it and decided against the "take off my flip flop and smack the life out of it" and decided to grab a can of Raid. I sprayed that sucker the way a bride sprays her hair on her wedding day. Needless to say the Raid won that battle.
All this to say that I'm pretty certain, someway...somehow...the good Lord is preparing me for a future with bugs/insects/rodents...
And I'm really not sure how I feel about this...
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Caroline, The High School Grad!
My cousin Caroline just graduated high school last week. She was valedictorian of her class and is now on to USF (University San Francisco). I'm so excited for her...and she gives me one more reason to visit the Bay Area :)
Our whole family is so proud of her. She is so beautiful...inside and out.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Things I Loved About This Weekend...
--Hanging out with Courtney and meeting her fiance Drew. He is so great and they are so great together. I was only able to hang out with them for a few hours, but within that short amount of time I could just tell they made such a great team. I am so happy for them.
--Being in the Bay Area and getting a chance to hang out and catch up with Neen, Scott and Jason. There is something about being around friends who you've known for a long time that is both comforting and relaxing.
--Sleeping in.
--Going to Target with Neen.
--Making dinner all together.
--Going to the beach!
--Eating double fudge chocolate brownies with ice cream made by Scott. That boy can bake!
--Just driving. Thinking. Enjoying the open road. And stopping for a diet pepsi :)
--Good conversation.
--Listening to Scott sing along with Inya.
--Lots of laughter.
--Being in the Bay Area and getting a chance to hang out and catch up with Neen, Scott and Jason. There is something about being around friends who you've known for a long time that is both comforting and relaxing.
--Sleeping in.
--Going to Target with Neen.
--Making dinner all together.
--Going to the beach!
--Eating double fudge chocolate brownies with ice cream made by Scott. That boy can bake!
--Just driving. Thinking. Enjoying the open road. And stopping for a diet pepsi :)
--Good conversation.
--Listening to Scott sing along with Inya.
--Lots of laughter.
Monday, June 9, 2008
Have YOU Ever Said This Before...?
"I think, eventually,
you'll be sad
that you didn't love me.
I think, eventually,
I'll be glad
that you didn't love me."
For many people, these 22 words encompass a lot.
you'll be sad
that you didn't love me.
I think, eventually,
I'll be glad
that you didn't love me."
For many people, these 22 words encompass a lot.
This Sank Deep...
"No matter what, until the moment we are united with Christ in eternity, our enemies will never surrender. They will never stop coming against us. A life of faithfulness does not provide a life without battles.
But, a faithful servant will remember the Master who he serves… A Master who never leaves His servants alone. A Master who grips heaven and earth and can dissipate an army of 185,000 in one night should the need arise.
Our enemies, be they internal, external, physical, spiritual, large or small, will assail us again and again, but that is simply another instance when God has occasion to move on our behalf."
Amen.
But, a faithful servant will remember the Master who he serves… A Master who never leaves His servants alone. A Master who grips heaven and earth and can dissipate an army of 185,000 in one night should the need arise.
Our enemies, be they internal, external, physical, spiritual, large or small, will assail us again and again, but that is simply another instance when God has occasion to move on our behalf."
Amen.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
My Kind of Street...
This is an actual street sign that I took a picture of in Ohio... I think they are on to something!
Friday, June 6, 2008
Race For The Cure
Saturday, October 25, 2008. Put it on your calendar now and plan to join me (and Jen :) there!
Four years ago I started attending this event because I started realizing how many women are impacted by this disease and I wanted to do my part to help.
My grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1998. She was able to combat it through treatments of radiation and is now a breast cancer survivor.
My dad's best friend's wife was diagnosed with breast cancer and she was able to receive treatment. However, a few years later the cancer reappeared and took an aggressive approach. Sadly, she lost her battle with breast cancer and passed away 5 years ago.
Jen's mom was also diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006 and she is also now a strong survivor. That was one of the hardest conversations to have with Jen--not because it was hard to talk about, but because it didn't seem real. I can still remember that phone conversation...
1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer at some point in their life and it is the 2nd most common type of cancer and the 5th most common of cancer death. (Thank you Wikipedia).
All that to say, someone you know will probably battle this cancer at some point in their life (and it's not gender biased--men can develop it too). Race for the Cure is a small way to make a big difference in helping to find a cure through breast cancer research.
Come join me on October 25th at Fresno State! It really is a lot of fun--and you get a ton of cool free stuff!
Four years ago I started attending this event because I started realizing how many women are impacted by this disease and I wanted to do my part to help.
My grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1998. She was able to combat it through treatments of radiation and is now a breast cancer survivor.
My dad's best friend's wife was diagnosed with breast cancer and she was able to receive treatment. However, a few years later the cancer reappeared and took an aggressive approach. Sadly, she lost her battle with breast cancer and passed away 5 years ago.
Jen's mom was also diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006 and she is also now a strong survivor. That was one of the hardest conversations to have with Jen--not because it was hard to talk about, but because it didn't seem real. I can still remember that phone conversation...
1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer at some point in their life and it is the 2nd most common type of cancer and the 5th most common of cancer death. (Thank you Wikipedia).
All that to say, someone you know will probably battle this cancer at some point in their life (and it's not gender biased--men can develop it too). Race for the Cure is a small way to make a big difference in helping to find a cure through breast cancer research.
Come join me on October 25th at Fresno State! It really is a lot of fun--and you get a ton of cool free stuff!
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Free and Clear...
So I wasn't wiped out by a tornado (PTL) and we were "released" from the Tornado shelter a few hours ago. Although the tornado warning is gone, there is so CRAZY thunder and lightening going on outside! I mean LOUD thunder and BRIGHT lightening! It's actually really cool...and border line scary when the thunder makes the building shake a little...!
I've been introduced to a few new things on this trip...tornado sirens, tornado shelters and the loudest thunder I have ever heard. I must say California has a lot of stuff, but the mid-west has us beat when it comes to really cool thunder storms. Hands down they win.
I've been introduced to a few new things on this trip...tornado sirens, tornado shelters and the loudest thunder I have ever heard. I must say California has a lot of stuff, but the mid-west has us beat when it comes to really cool thunder storms. Hands down they win.
Tornado Warning!
As I type this I'm sitting in a tornado shelter in Ohio waiting out my first ever tornado warning! Apparently, a "twister" has been spotted about 20 miles from where we are.
This insanely loud siren went off and people started running into buildings...! And I'm with a group of about 20 people in this room underground, none of them I know...but a tornado warning makes for a great bonding experience :)
Pretty exciting... I don't know about all this mid-west weather. At the most, we have earthquakes in California...not these crazy tornado's. And the weather here is the craziest thing I've ever seen. It's really calm outside...a little creepy that it's so calm, but people say calm weather is often a sign of good tornado weather.
I'm looking out the window right now, but I've just been told I need to stay away from the window... We shall see!
Nothing like the good ol' mid-west weather to keep you on your toes!
This insanely loud siren went off and people started running into buildings...! And I'm with a group of about 20 people in this room underground, none of them I know...but a tornado warning makes for a great bonding experience :)
Pretty exciting... I don't know about all this mid-west weather. At the most, we have earthquakes in California...not these crazy tornado's. And the weather here is the craziest thing I've ever seen. It's really calm outside...a little creepy that it's so calm, but people say calm weather is often a sign of good tornado weather.
I'm looking out the window right now, but I've just been told I need to stay away from the window... We shall see!
Nothing like the good ol' mid-west weather to keep you on your toes!
This Post is for Eric...
I found out that next year the annual ACSD conference is going to be at LeTourneau University...in Longview, TEXAS!
Longview is about two hours east of Dallas...so after hearing so much about Dallas, I may just have to go visit it next year!
As long as I don't have to wear cowboy boots and wranglers, I think it will be fun. I mean doesn't everyone wear tight jeans, boots and cowboy hats in Texas, Eric? :)
To see Eric's love for Texas for yourself, go check out his recent post...
Longview is about two hours east of Dallas...so after hearing so much about Dallas, I may just have to go visit it next year!
As long as I don't have to wear cowboy boots and wranglers, I think it will be fun. I mean doesn't everyone wear tight jeans, boots and cowboy hats in Texas, Eric? :)
To see Eric's love for Texas for yourself, go check out his recent post...
Monday, June 2, 2008
The Buckeye State...
I'm in Ohio right now attending a confernce called ACSD (Association for Christians in Student Development) with a few of my fellow co-workers from FPU. My parents are both from Ohio, so I have to say I've spent my fair share of time in this state. But I also have to say, it's a really beautiful place this time of year. Everything is SO green and there is SO much land all around. Much, much different then California.
And when people ask what school I work at and what state I'm from and I tell them FPU in California...I always get the same response: "It must be nice to live in California!" I smile every time. For most people outside of CA, California = beaches and beautiful weather--which we do have, but we just don't have those things in Fresno...especially not in the summertime.
This was the first day of the conference...three more to go and I'm looking forward to it. This is my 3rd ACSD conference, so it's been fun to reconnect with friends I've made over the years that work at other colleges/universities.
Today a group of us from FPU went to the United States Air Force Museum. It was amazing. That will have to be a whole other post on it's own, but if you like U.S. history, you would love this museum (Jen *cough cough*).
Time for bed now. This three hour time difference is wearing on me, and as soon as I get used to it, it will be time to head back home!
And when people ask what school I work at and what state I'm from and I tell them FPU in California...I always get the same response: "It must be nice to live in California!" I smile every time. For most people outside of CA, California = beaches and beautiful weather--which we do have, but we just don't have those things in Fresno...especially not in the summertime.
This was the first day of the conference...three more to go and I'm looking forward to it. This is my 3rd ACSD conference, so it's been fun to reconnect with friends I've made over the years that work at other colleges/universities.
Today a group of us from FPU went to the United States Air Force Museum. It was amazing. That will have to be a whole other post on it's own, but if you like U.S. history, you would love this museum (Jen *cough cough*).
Time for bed now. This three hour time difference is wearing on me, and as soon as I get used to it, it will be time to head back home!
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Work In Progress...
I have been thinking a lot lately about the idea of loving people (and ourselves) in the midst of imperfection. I don't think we should be willing to be complacent with our imperfections--though everyone is a "work in progress". But that first word says it all... Work. We are a work in progress but sometimes I think we (rather I) forget it takes work to progress.
It requires courage to take an honest look at oneself and be open and willing to see the good, the bad and all the in between. God sees it all but I think sometimes we like to be selective in the things we choose to see in our life, because let's be honest...to be fully known to yourself or to others can be a very scary thing...
It requires courage to take an honest look at oneself and be open and willing to see the good, the bad and all the in between. God sees it all but I think sometimes we like to be selective in the things we choose to see in our life, because let's be honest...to be fully known to yourself or to others can be a very scary thing...
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Words That Change Lives...
Think of how drastically life can change (both for the good and bad) when these words are spoken:
"I'm pregnant"
"I have cancer"
"I want a divorce"
"There's been a terrible accident"
"I got a new job"
"Will you marry me?"
Others?
"I'm pregnant"
"I have cancer"
"I want a divorce"
"There's been a terrible accident"
"I got a new job"
"Will you marry me?"
Others?
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Church and Bar...One in the same?
I've been thinking a lot lately about church and about bars. Now I understand that these two things may sound like polar opposites, and in some ways they are, but I think there are some similarities between them as well.
As I like to say..."Go with me here..."
I often wonder how a non-Christian or someone who is exploring their faith, feels when they walk into a church. Growing up in church my whole life, learning the lingo and the acceptable and unacceptable social norms, I've never been in this position of feeling completely on the outside at church.
Just like the church has it's own language and unspoken ways you are to act, dress and interact with one another, so does a bar. And I can't help to think that someone who doesn't drink or who has never been to a bar, might feel awkward if they went to a bar with some friends...the same way a non-believer might feel going to church...
Just as the church does, a bar also has it's own language. (Is that a shot, shooter, mixed drink, well drink, etc...). And there are unspoken societal norms as to what is acceptable and unacceptable to do and say.
And just as God is at work in the church, He is also at work in bars. My brother (who is a bar tender) tells me stories of people who come in and have hit rock bottom, and have often hit it really hard. Now granted, the bar probably isn't the best place to be when you feel you've hit rock bottom, but yet they are there and they are searching for something to fill the void and heal the pain in their life.
Now am I an advocate for people going to bars every night? No. But come to think of it, I'm not an advocate for people going to church every night either. And do I acknowledge and understand that bars and alcohol can be the source of deep rooted pain in people's lives? Most definitely. I just think there is a lot that can be said about what it means to love people where they're at.
I don't think this means everyone should go to a bar for the sake of "doing ministry" but I do believe that God does miracles everyday. And I've seen first hand how people who are searching for something to fill voids and heal the pain in their life often look to the bottle as their first source. And after they find that the bottle (or fill in the blank) can only satisfy them for so long, they go out searching again...and again...and again...
God is at work and I've been challenged now more then ever to see all of the ways God is working--in both the conventional and unconventional venues.
As I like to say..."Go with me here..."
I often wonder how a non-Christian or someone who is exploring their faith, feels when they walk into a church. Growing up in church my whole life, learning the lingo and the acceptable and unacceptable social norms, I've never been in this position of feeling completely on the outside at church.
Just like the church has it's own language and unspoken ways you are to act, dress and interact with one another, so does a bar. And I can't help to think that someone who doesn't drink or who has never been to a bar, might feel awkward if they went to a bar with some friends...the same way a non-believer might feel going to church...
Just as the church does, a bar also has it's own language. (Is that a shot, shooter, mixed drink, well drink, etc...). And there are unspoken societal norms as to what is acceptable and unacceptable to do and say.
And just as God is at work in the church, He is also at work in bars. My brother (who is a bar tender) tells me stories of people who come in and have hit rock bottom, and have often hit it really hard. Now granted, the bar probably isn't the best place to be when you feel you've hit rock bottom, but yet they are there and they are searching for something to fill the void and heal the pain in their life.
Now am I an advocate for people going to bars every night? No. But come to think of it, I'm not an advocate for people going to church every night either. And do I acknowledge and understand that bars and alcohol can be the source of deep rooted pain in people's lives? Most definitely. I just think there is a lot that can be said about what it means to love people where they're at.
I don't think this means everyone should go to a bar for the sake of "doing ministry" but I do believe that God does miracles everyday. And I've seen first hand how people who are searching for something to fill voids and heal the pain in their life often look to the bottle as their first source. And after they find that the bottle (or fill in the blank) can only satisfy them for so long, they go out searching again...and again...and again...
God is at work and I've been challenged now more then ever to see all of the ways God is working--in both the conventional and unconventional venues.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
"Amazing People. Incredible Care"
I've been listening to the radio lately as I unpack and get things situated in my new apartment. One commercial I hear a lot is for Children's Hospital Central California. They have a new slogan out right now and I love it. It encompasses so much in 4 little words...
"Amazing People. Incredible Care."
After watching this commercial it made me feel so thankful that we have a pediatric hospital so close to home. Even though I don't have any children of my own, I have known a number of people who have been treated or had their child treated at this hospital.
And this is their mission: "The mission of Children's Hospital Central California is to provide high quality, comprehensive health care services to children, regardless of their ability to pay."
Regardless of their ability to pay...that's a big thing to say considering they are only one of 10 independently funded children's hosptials.
It's such a valuable resource the Central Valley has and it's so close to home.
"Amazing People. Incredible Care."
After watching this commercial it made me feel so thankful that we have a pediatric hospital so close to home. Even though I don't have any children of my own, I have known a number of people who have been treated or had their child treated at this hospital.
And this is their mission: "The mission of Children's Hospital Central California is to provide high quality, comprehensive health care services to children, regardless of their ability to pay."
Regardless of their ability to pay...that's a big thing to say considering they are only one of 10 independently funded children's hosptials.
It's such a valuable resource the Central Valley has and it's so close to home.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Moving Time!
This Thursday and Friday I will be moving to a different apartment (still on campus) but bigger with a nice full kitchen! I'm excited for the change and am looking forward to decorating a new place! I'm not looking forward to hauling all the big stuff over... (beds, couches, bookcases, chairs, table...)
So if you're not busy on Thursday late afternoon/evening or Friday morning/afternoon and have a few hours to spare, I would love the help.
You know what they say...Many hands make the work load light!
So if you're not busy on Thursday late afternoon/evening or Friday morning/afternoon and have a few hours to spare, I would love the help.
You know what they say...Many hands make the work load light!
Saturday, May 10, 2008
17 Kids and Counting...
"Seven daughters and 10 sons just wasn't enough for Arkansas couple Michelle and Jim Bob Duggar. Just in time for Mother's Day, the busy parents announced they're expecting their 18th child. Their oldest, Josh, is 20, and youngest, Jennifer, is 9 months old.
The fast-growing family lives in Tontitown in northwest Arkansas in a massive 7,000-square-foot home. All the children - whose names start with the letter J - are home-schooled.
Pregnancy is nothing new for Michelle Duggar - she's been pregnant for more than 11 years of her life!"
Wow...this family has two complete baseball teams in their house! When all the kids are old enough they could play a game with 9 on 9! I can't even imagine!
Happy Mother's Day...tomorrow!
So True...
"What you do thunders above your head so loudly, I cannot hear the words you speak." -Ralph Waldo Emerson
Actions speak so much louder than words...
Actions speak so much louder than words...
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Let's Be Honest...
It sounds so simple, yet sometimes it can be hard...
Jesus replied, “You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: Love your neighbor as yourself." Matthew 22:37-39
Jesus replied, “You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: Love your neighbor as yourself." Matthew 22:37-39
Paradigm Shift...
Today one of my former high school students (who was highly involved in Youth For Christ when I served there) came into my office. She is attending FPU next year, which she is quite excited about as am I! She just got back from spending 10 months in Portugal doing ministry while working with missionaries. We chatted for about 25 minutes and in that time I could tell the things she did and experienced completely changed her worldview and broadened her understanding of herself and others.
As she and I talked, I was reminded of two things:
1. God is at work outside of Fresno, outside of California and outside of the United States. I've learned on a bad day I have the tendency to become so self focused--sometimes missing the point that there is SO much outside of what I know and experience.
2. God is at work in Fresno, in California and within the United States. In the same way I can miss seeing all that God is doing around the world, I can also miss what God is doing in my midst...and in my life...and in my job and ministry...and all around me...
Thank you Katy for helping me remember these things.
As she and I talked, I was reminded of two things:
1. God is at work outside of Fresno, outside of California and outside of the United States. I've learned on a bad day I have the tendency to become so self focused--sometimes missing the point that there is SO much outside of what I know and experience.
2. God is at work in Fresno, in California and within the United States. In the same way I can miss seeing all that God is doing around the world, I can also miss what God is doing in my midst...and in my life...and in my job and ministry...and all around me...
Thank you Katy for helping me remember these things.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Ah...Memories...
I recently bought a new CD that has a bunch of old hymns that have been modernized/contemporized in different ways. I LOVE this CD. It brings back memories from the church I went to growing up.
Although growing up I always thought singing hymns was boring (especially when we sang them so slow!) but there is such deep rooted meaning in the lyrics, that I have now come to see how valuable they really are.
One of my favorite songs on the CD is "Joyful Joyful". Every time I listen to it, I think of my dear friend and mentor, Jamie and I think of a bunch of kids in a large sanctuary singing their hearts out at VBS.
Both such good, good memories.
And I think of Jen and me teaching kindergarten for a class full of 4-5 year olds...
Now that is a really good memory too! I can't help but smile and laugh when I think of that one!
Although growing up I always thought singing hymns was boring (especially when we sang them so slow!) but there is such deep rooted meaning in the lyrics, that I have now come to see how valuable they really are.
One of my favorite songs on the CD is "Joyful Joyful". Every time I listen to it, I think of my dear friend and mentor, Jamie and I think of a bunch of kids in a large sanctuary singing their hearts out at VBS.
Both such good, good memories.
And I think of Jen and me teaching kindergarten for a class full of 4-5 year olds...
Now that is a really good memory too! I can't help but smile and laugh when I think of that one!
Do You Ever Feel This Way...
I just read this today on Post Secret.
I feel this way right now...and although new things can be scary, they can be incredbily exciting at the same time.
And I have no idea what "new" thing might be coming my way...maybe it's something small...or something big...but I feel that God is calling me to trust Him and Him alone...
Monday, April 28, 2008
Never A Dull Moment With My Brother...
My phone rang last night (or I should say this morning) about 1:10am. Whenever my phone rings after midnight my stomach drops a little because usually calls coming in that late are not good. Here's our conversation:
Me: Hello
Tim: Becky? Are you sleeping?
Me: No I'm awake, what's up? Are you okay?
Tim: Yeah, I'm fine. I just have a question for you.
Me: Okay...
Tim: I need you to tell me on the TV show "Full House" who is the one who always says "How rude!" Was it Michelle or Stephanie?
Me: Seriously? I think Stephanie started saying it and then Michelle would copy her.
Tim: Oh okay, I thought it was Michelle, but I think you're right...it was Stephanie. Joaquin (his roommate) and I were just talking about it and we figured you would know this kind of thing. Thanks Bec!
Me: Sure...
Tim: Love ya sis. I'll give you a call tomorrow to catch up.
Me: Love you too.
Yeah...that's my brother...I'm just glad I was legitimately awake when he called, otherwise I probably wouldn't have been as helpful...or as nice...
Me: Hello
Tim: Becky? Are you sleeping?
Me: No I'm awake, what's up? Are you okay?
Tim: Yeah, I'm fine. I just have a question for you.
Me: Okay...
Tim: I need you to tell me on the TV show "Full House" who is the one who always says "How rude!" Was it Michelle or Stephanie?
Me: Seriously? I think Stephanie started saying it and then Michelle would copy her.
Tim: Oh okay, I thought it was Michelle, but I think you're right...it was Stephanie. Joaquin (his roommate) and I were just talking about it and we figured you would know this kind of thing. Thanks Bec!
Me: Sure...
Tim: Love ya sis. I'll give you a call tomorrow to catch up.
Me: Love you too.
Yeah...that's my brother...I'm just glad I was legitimately awake when he called, otherwise I probably wouldn't have been as helpful...or as nice...
Courtney Is Engaged!
Courtney and Drew are officially engaged! I was sitting in a meeting this afternoon and I looked at my phone and saw Courtney was calling and instantly thought to myself "She's engaged!"
Courtney and I went to Fresno Pacific together all four years and we lived together in a house our senior year. She is a dear friend with an absolutely beautiful heart. I am so excited for them!
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Do You Dance In Your Bed?
I've been at the hospital with my mom for the past few days as she recovered after having her thyroid removed. All went well and her recovery is going smoothly.
I think the highlight of my time at the hospital (besides eating sphagetti for dinner with Jen in the cafeteria) was my mom's roommate, Mrs. Anderson. She shared a room with my mom and didn't have too many visitors, so I would help her if she needed small things (more water poured, another blanket, etc...).
Mrs. Anderson was in her late 80's and legally blind so that made things all the harder for her.
My heart smiled when I overheard this conversation she had with one of the nurses...
Nurse: Mrs. Anderson, your sheets are all tangled up. Have you been dancing in bed?
Mrs. Anderson: No ma'am I haven't been dancing in bed, but one day I'm going to be dancing in heaven.
You are right Mrs. Anderson...you are so very right...
I think the highlight of my time at the hospital (besides eating sphagetti for dinner with Jen in the cafeteria) was my mom's roommate, Mrs. Anderson. She shared a room with my mom and didn't have too many visitors, so I would help her if she needed small things (more water poured, another blanket, etc...).
Mrs. Anderson was in her late 80's and legally blind so that made things all the harder for her.
My heart smiled when I overheard this conversation she had with one of the nurses...
Nurse: Mrs. Anderson, your sheets are all tangled up. Have you been dancing in bed?
Mrs. Anderson: No ma'am I haven't been dancing in bed, but one day I'm going to be dancing in heaven.
You are right Mrs. Anderson...you are so very right...
Monday, April 21, 2008
Did You Know...
1. My first karaoke debut was to the song "Baby Got Back".
2. I play with my eyelashes when I'm thinking hard...or stressed.
3. My bedroom is usually messy...I wish it weren't so...but on any given day you will find clothes strewn across the room.
4. I could eat blackberries and strawberries for days and not get sick of them.
5. When Jen and I go on walks we sometimes pretend there is hot lava all around us and we have to jump around it to save ourselves. Oh you know we have fun...! And sorry, our walks are pretty exclusive, though we may allow for occasional guests from time to time...
Did you know all that?
2. I play with my eyelashes when I'm thinking hard...or stressed.
3. My bedroom is usually messy...I wish it weren't so...but on any given day you will find clothes strewn across the room.
4. I could eat blackberries and strawberries for days and not get sick of them.
5. When Jen and I go on walks we sometimes pretend there is hot lava all around us and we have to jump around it to save ourselves. Oh you know we have fun...! And sorry, our walks are pretty exclusive, though we may allow for occasional guests from time to time...
Did you know all that?
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Happy 115th Birthday!
Can you imagine living to be 115 years old? This woman, Edna Parker, is recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's oldest known person. She was born on April 20,1883. On Friday, Edna laughed and smiled as relatives and guests released 115 balloons into sunny skies outside her nursing home. Dressed in pearls, a blue and white polka dot dress and new white shoes, she clutched a red rose during the festivities.
You better believe she deserved to get some new white shoes for her 115th birthday party!
Wow. If I live to be 115 years old that means I have 92 more years to go...!
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Donald Miller is Coming!!!
That's right...this Thursday...at FPU. I have my ticket in my hand. Can't wait!
Monday, April 14, 2008
Best Prank of the Year...
Check out Dani and Mallorie's blog for full details. It was planned out and executed quite well. I was impressed!
Thoughts From The Throne
Another new adition and only two more left for the school year! Enjoy!
I love life. Well, I should say I love most things about my life, though I don’t always love everything that happens in life…but all in all…I love life.
And I love that there are seasons to life. Just like the weather changes season (except when you live in Fresno and it’s 94 degrees in April…what’s up with that?) so life has seasons. Some seasons are bright, sunny, radiating beauty and goodness. Other seasons are dreary, raining (maybe pouring) and dark. But whether good or bad, nonetheless there are seasons. And seasons change.
Think back to August…the first week of school. You may not have known very many people and you may have been new to Fresno all together. August seems like such a long time ago. Many of you would probably say, “So much has changed in this past year…” You have most likely met new people, had new experiences (maybe both good and bad) and have had opportunities to be involved in the community at FPU.
It’s amazing what happens when you take time to reflect on the year as a whole. It’s often comical to think back to who you were 8 months ago—life happens and people change. It’s always encouraging when one can look back and see growth in their life for the good. Although, I also recognize some of you may look back and see that you’ve become someone you never wanted or expected to be. Or maybe you’ve made small changes that have started you on a path that you know will only continue to lead you further in the wrong direction.
Even though life can get crazy and seasons can turn from bright and sunny to dark and dreary in a matter of a day, God isn’t surprised by what’s happening. He knows you. And I mean He really knows you. I’ll be the first to admit that even though I follow Christ I still mess up. And often it’s not pretty. I’m beginning to learn more and more that it’s through the difficult seasons of life that I learn and grow the most. I’ve learned more through seasons of pain and heart ache then I have in my seasons of rejoicing.
Even as we follow Christ it’s made known that it isn’t that we are perfect now or that we will never have to struggle again, but rather when we do struggle we can look and cling to a God who is constantly wanting to restore us back to Him and grow in us an understanding of his deep love and grace.
And I wish that growth process didn’t hurt so much sometimes. Often trying to go around difficult or painful situations is a whole lot easier then going through them. But something happens when you face life head on and enter into what may be a difficult season clinging to God’s promise that He will walk with you through it.
Just as the seasons are about to change, so I am also changing and I hope you are too. Change can be incredibly scary but indescribably good at the same time.
Until Next Week…
I love life. Well, I should say I love most things about my life, though I don’t always love everything that happens in life…but all in all…I love life.
And I love that there are seasons to life. Just like the weather changes season (except when you live in Fresno and it’s 94 degrees in April…what’s up with that?) so life has seasons. Some seasons are bright, sunny, radiating beauty and goodness. Other seasons are dreary, raining (maybe pouring) and dark. But whether good or bad, nonetheless there are seasons. And seasons change.
Think back to August…the first week of school. You may not have known very many people and you may have been new to Fresno all together. August seems like such a long time ago. Many of you would probably say, “So much has changed in this past year…” You have most likely met new people, had new experiences (maybe both good and bad) and have had opportunities to be involved in the community at FPU.
It’s amazing what happens when you take time to reflect on the year as a whole. It’s often comical to think back to who you were 8 months ago—life happens and people change. It’s always encouraging when one can look back and see growth in their life for the good. Although, I also recognize some of you may look back and see that you’ve become someone you never wanted or expected to be. Or maybe you’ve made small changes that have started you on a path that you know will only continue to lead you further in the wrong direction.
Even though life can get crazy and seasons can turn from bright and sunny to dark and dreary in a matter of a day, God isn’t surprised by what’s happening. He knows you. And I mean He really knows you. I’ll be the first to admit that even though I follow Christ I still mess up. And often it’s not pretty. I’m beginning to learn more and more that it’s through the difficult seasons of life that I learn and grow the most. I’ve learned more through seasons of pain and heart ache then I have in my seasons of rejoicing.
Even as we follow Christ it’s made known that it isn’t that we are perfect now or that we will never have to struggle again, but rather when we do struggle we can look and cling to a God who is constantly wanting to restore us back to Him and grow in us an understanding of his deep love and grace.
And I wish that growth process didn’t hurt so much sometimes. Often trying to go around difficult or painful situations is a whole lot easier then going through them. But something happens when you face life head on and enter into what may be a difficult season clinging to God’s promise that He will walk with you through it.
Just as the seasons are about to change, so I am also changing and I hope you are too. Change can be incredibly scary but indescribably good at the same time.
Until Next Week…
You...Me...Wii...!
That's right folks...I bought a Wii! It's super fun and I'm developing some mad skills on it. If you haven't played Wii...you need to. And it's not just another video game...it can be a legitimate work out! The boxing game on there makes your arms burn after a while!
I bought the Wii after Dani and Mallorie put one on hold for me at Wal-Mart. It was only on hold for an hour so I had to decide quick if I wanted to buy it. I bought it and I haven't looked back. I'm very happy with my decision!
You...Me...Wii??
I bought the Wii after Dani and Mallorie put one on hold for me at Wal-Mart. It was only on hold for an hour so I had to decide quick if I wanted to buy it. I bought it and I haven't looked back. I'm very happy with my decision!
You...Me...Wii??
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Book Recommendations...
If you could recommend one book that was really impactful or insightful for you what would you recommend?
As always, there is a reason for this...and I'll let you know in a few days. I'd love to hear your recommendations though. Thanks in advance...!
As always, there is a reason for this...and I'll let you know in a few days. I'd love to hear your recommendations though. Thanks in advance...!
Problems and Pain
I'm reading a new book right now that I bought at the MCC Sale for $1 titled: The Road Less Traveled and I thought I would share a little snippet of it with ya'll...
"Life is difficult. This is a great truth, one of the greatest truths. It is a great truth because once we truly see this truth, we transcend it. Once we truly know that life is difficult--once we truly understand and accept it--then life is no longer difficult. Because once it is accepted, the fact that life is difficult no longer matters.
Life is a series of problems. What makes life difficult is that the process of confronting and solving problems is a painful one. Problems, depending upon their nature, evoke in us frustration or grief or sadness or loneliness or guilt or regret or anger or fear or anxiety or anguish or despair. These are uncomfortable feelings, often very uncomfortable, often as painful as any kind of physical pain, sometimes equaling the very worst kind of physical pain.
And since life poses an endless series of problems, life is always difficult and is full of pain as well as joy.
Yet it is in this whole process of meeting and solving problems that life has its meaning. It is only because of problems that we grow mentally and spiritually. When we desire to encourage the growth of the human spirit, we challenge and encourage the human capacity to solve problems, just as in school we deliberately set problems for children to solve."
This part really resonated with me...
"Fearing the pain involved, almost all of us, to a greater or lesser degree, attempt to avoid problems. We procrastinate, hoping that they will go away. We ignore them, forget them, pretend they do not exist. We even take drugs to assist us in ignoring them, so that by deadening ourselves to the pain we can forget the problems that cause the pain. We attempt to skirt around problems rather then meet them head on. We attempt to get out of them rather than suffer through them..."
"Life is difficult. This is a great truth, one of the greatest truths. It is a great truth because once we truly see this truth, we transcend it. Once we truly know that life is difficult--once we truly understand and accept it--then life is no longer difficult. Because once it is accepted, the fact that life is difficult no longer matters.
Life is a series of problems. What makes life difficult is that the process of confronting and solving problems is a painful one. Problems, depending upon their nature, evoke in us frustration or grief or sadness or loneliness or guilt or regret or anger or fear or anxiety or anguish or despair. These are uncomfortable feelings, often very uncomfortable, often as painful as any kind of physical pain, sometimes equaling the very worst kind of physical pain.
And since life poses an endless series of problems, life is always difficult and is full of pain as well as joy.
Yet it is in this whole process of meeting and solving problems that life has its meaning. It is only because of problems that we grow mentally and spiritually. When we desire to encourage the growth of the human spirit, we challenge and encourage the human capacity to solve problems, just as in school we deliberately set problems for children to solve."
This part really resonated with me...
"Fearing the pain involved, almost all of us, to a greater or lesser degree, attempt to avoid problems. We procrastinate, hoping that they will go away. We ignore them, forget them, pretend they do not exist. We even take drugs to assist us in ignoring them, so that by deadening ourselves to the pain we can forget the problems that cause the pain. We attempt to skirt around problems rather then meet them head on. We attempt to get out of them rather than suffer through them..."
Friday, April 4, 2008
Bye Bye Digital Camera
I received a new digital camera as a Christmas gift from my parents this past Christmas. I loved it. It was exactly what I wanted and perfect for what I was going to be using it for--taking a ton of pictures.
But this past Tuesday my camera went missing after I set it down on the bleachers in the gym at school. I went to get it from where I set it down...and it was gone.
Some say it's just misplaced, others say it was just plain stolen...I'm not sure what to say, except I hope to get it back someway...somehow!
And though I really liked the camera, I'm the most saddened about losing all the pictures I had on there...that I had not yet downloaded on my computer...just about 200 of them from December to the present.
Major bummer.
So if you are an FPUer and know or hear of anything...I would love to get my camera back! Thanks.
But this past Tuesday my camera went missing after I set it down on the bleachers in the gym at school. I went to get it from where I set it down...and it was gone.
Some say it's just misplaced, others say it was just plain stolen...I'm not sure what to say, except I hope to get it back someway...somehow!
And though I really liked the camera, I'm the most saddened about losing all the pictures I had on there...that I had not yet downloaded on my computer...just about 200 of them from December to the present.
Major bummer.
So if you are an FPUer and know or hear of anything...I would love to get my camera back! Thanks.
RA (Raw) Heat and RA (Raw) Power...
FPU Dodgeball Tournament. This past Tuesday night. 8pm. Our two teams (RA Heat and RA Power) rocked it.
Okay, I should say my RAs rocked it. No, we didn't make it to the championships, but we looked dang good in the shirts we made and the socks we wore. Please note the shirts and socks in this picture. Not everyone was able to make it so in this picture we're missing three and there is one special guest added in. All in all a very fun night. I am so down to play again...!
Oh and you know we had an hour practice the morning of complete with throwing and dodging drills. We were so hard core. I love these ladies. Oh, and just as a disclaimer, I have no idea what I'm doing in the second picture...no idea.
Okay, I should say my RAs rocked it. No, we didn't make it to the championships, but we looked dang good in the shirts we made and the socks we wore. Please note the shirts and socks in this picture. Not everyone was able to make it so in this picture we're missing three and there is one special guest added in. All in all a very fun night. I am so down to play again...!
Oh and you know we had an hour practice the morning of complete with throwing and dodging drills. We were so hard core. I love these ladies. Oh, and just as a disclaimer, I have no idea what I'm doing in the second picture...no idea.
Monday, March 31, 2008
I'm Hooked
It's true. I borrowed season one of "One Tree Hill" from Dani and Mallorie and I'm hooked. I'm embarressed to say how many episodes I watched this weekend...but it was quite a few. It's a good show and now I understand what so many people have talked about for so long.
Now Jen don't go rolling your eyes just yet...watch a few episodes and I can pretty much guarantee you'll be hooked too...
When You Reach That Level...
I love when you reach the level with people where you can start joking/making fun of them. You know what I mean. When you reach a certain comfort level where you can banter back and forth about any given thing all in good fun.
Today was a long day. A very long day. And I can pretty much say with confidence that this day would have seemed a whole heck of a lot longer if I did not have great (and fun!) co-workers. Kimi, Dave and I work really well together--and we've reached that level with one another where we can joke around and make fun of one another all in good fun.
There was one time today when both Dave and Kimi were mocking me and I couldn't stop laughing. I love this about my job.
And it gets even better when Pam jumps into the mix!
Today was a long day--but I work with some amazing people and even when one of us has a "bad" day we love one another through it.
And know it's time for me to leave my office and go to bed...
Today was a long day. A very long day. And I can pretty much say with confidence that this day would have seemed a whole heck of a lot longer if I did not have great (and fun!) co-workers. Kimi, Dave and I work really well together--and we've reached that level with one another where we can joke around and make fun of one another all in good fun.
There was one time today when both Dave and Kimi were mocking me and I couldn't stop laughing. I love this about my job.
And it gets even better when Pam jumps into the mix!
Today was a long day--but I work with some amazing people and even when one of us has a "bad" day we love one another through it.
And know it's time for me to leave my office and go to bed...
Saturday, March 29, 2008
You Really Never Know...
A student recently wrote this to me...
"you have been speakin to me everytime you send one of the TFTT (Thoughts From the Throne) out.....u have helped me through alot of stuff and you keep me on the right track...thanks"
Who knew? God knew. I didn't know. It's just another reminder tht we really never know how God is at work. I'm blessed to be a part of the process.
"you have been speakin to me everytime you send one of the TFTT (Thoughts From the Throne) out.....u have helped me through alot of stuff and you keep me on the right track...thanks"
Who knew? God knew. I didn't know. It's just another reminder tht we really never know how God is at work. I'm blessed to be a part of the process.
I am third...
In an interview with comedian Jeff Foxworthy by Glenn Beck on CNN, Foxworthy gave some invaluable advice. Foxworthy said in his family he encourages them to say and live like, "I am third. I will serve God first, family second and myself third."
Good advice Mr. Foxworthy. Now if only I could do that...
Good advice Mr. Foxworthy. Now if only I could do that...
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Another "Thought From The Throne"...
Have you ever got a song stuck in your head before? Either you hear it on the radio or you hear someone singing it and from that moment on you can’t get it out of your head. This has happened to me before…well, okay it actually happens to me a lot. People who know me well know that I really like to sing. Now when I say I like to sing, by no means do I mean that I sing well. I just like to sing and will often burst out in random song. And I usually only realize I’m doing it when I look up and someone (or multiple people) are looking at me really strange… yeah…
Well I got a song stuck in my head this weekend. On Easter Sunday I attended church with Jen and Derek and I was reminded of what I like to call “oldie but goodie” praise songs that we used to sing at the church Jen and I grew up at. I couldn't’t get this song out of my head—-the chorus of the song went like this:
And I believe that He’s here now
Standing in our midst
Here with the power to heal
And the grace to forgive
These four lines were stuck in my head all day—I even found myself humming it last night while I was in the shower! Often when songs get stuck in my head I don’t think too much about it, and honestly I sometimes don’t even realize what I’m singing or saying with the lyrics of a song. And I’ve found myself in a few awkward situations because of that…
But this time as I sang the words to this song over and over and over again, I found myself discovering deep truth in these lyrics. Specifically with the last two lines…
“Here with the power to heal and the grace to forgive…”
Sometimes we need to be reminded of this. I often need to be reminded of this. We need to be reminded that Jesus has the power to heal in ways that are beyond our understanding and He has the grace to forgive even when we don’t want to or can’t forgive ourselves.
It doesn’t take much looking around to see that we live in a broken world and therefore we’re all broken people. Some of you probably feel more broken then others at times. And some of you are hurting and are hurting really bad right now. We are in need of the one and only one who offers healing in a way that no one (or no thing) can.
Some people go their whole life searching for something or someone to heal their brokenness. But the thing they’re searching for is in their midst. He’s right here. And we can only find the healing and grace we need when we give up the search, when we surrender, when we trust.
Trust that God is already at work putting you back together. Trust that through dying to the old, the new can give birth. Trust that Jesus can repair the scarred and broken image. Trust that grace pays the bill…
Until Next Week...
Well I got a song stuck in my head this weekend. On Easter Sunday I attended church with Jen and Derek and I was reminded of what I like to call “oldie but goodie” praise songs that we used to sing at the church Jen and I grew up at. I couldn't’t get this song out of my head—-the chorus of the song went like this:
And I believe that He’s here now
Standing in our midst
Here with the power to heal
And the grace to forgive
These four lines were stuck in my head all day—I even found myself humming it last night while I was in the shower! Often when songs get stuck in my head I don’t think too much about it, and honestly I sometimes don’t even realize what I’m singing or saying with the lyrics of a song. And I’ve found myself in a few awkward situations because of that…
But this time as I sang the words to this song over and over and over again, I found myself discovering deep truth in these lyrics. Specifically with the last two lines…
“Here with the power to heal and the grace to forgive…”
Sometimes we need to be reminded of this. I often need to be reminded of this. We need to be reminded that Jesus has the power to heal in ways that are beyond our understanding and He has the grace to forgive even when we don’t want to or can’t forgive ourselves.
It doesn’t take much looking around to see that we live in a broken world and therefore we’re all broken people. Some of you probably feel more broken then others at times. And some of you are hurting and are hurting really bad right now. We are in need of the one and only one who offers healing in a way that no one (or no thing) can.
Some people go their whole life searching for something or someone to heal their brokenness. But the thing they’re searching for is in their midst. He’s right here. And we can only find the healing and grace we need when we give up the search, when we surrender, when we trust.
Trust that God is already at work putting you back together. Trust that through dying to the old, the new can give birth. Trust that Jesus can repair the scarred and broken image. Trust that grace pays the bill…
Until Next Week...
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Things I don't understand...
1. Why people eat hot dogs.
2. Why people call you, don't leave a message and then get upset because you didn't call them back.
3. How anyone can think the circus peanuts candies are good.
4. Why some people come to a complete stop before turning into a parking lot or onto a side street.
5. How some people can eat fast food everyday...and I mean everyday.
6. Why 7-11 got rid of their diet pepsi slurpees.
7. How anyone would not like the show "The Biggest Loser"
8. Why when you're told you can't do something it makes you want to do it all the more.
9. Why some people can do a cart wheel and others can't. I would be in the "cannot" category.
10. What a bunny has to do with the day Jesus rose from the grave.
2. Why people call you, don't leave a message and then get upset because you didn't call them back.
3. How anyone can think the circus peanuts candies are good.
4. Why some people come to a complete stop before turning into a parking lot or onto a side street.
5. How some people can eat fast food everyday...and I mean everyday.
6. Why 7-11 got rid of their diet pepsi slurpees.
7. How anyone would not like the show "The Biggest Loser"
8. Why when you're told you can't do something it makes you want to do it all the more.
9. Why some people can do a cart wheel and others can't. I would be in the "cannot" category.
10. What a bunny has to do with the day Jesus rose from the grave.
He Has Risen...He Has Risen Indeed!
I love that as I get older I have started new traditions for different holidays. Actually I should say Jen and I have started new traditions of things we do together since neither of us are married--or any where close to it for that matter.
On Easter we attend church together, but the past two years we've gone to a church that we normally don't attend. I don't really know why we go to a different church--but it's a lot of fun. After church we then usually eat and hang out for a while. This year we came back to the house that I'm house-sitting at and made deviled eggs and green bean casserole for my family's Easter dinner.
But what's most fun about it all is that we've started these traditions on our own. As adults. And I love it.
Hopefully in the years ahead we'll establish traditions for other holidays, but for now we have our own traditions for Christmas, Martin Luther King Jr. B-day and Easter. Sometimes Thanksgiving too!
Oh what fun!
He has risen...He has risen INDEED!
On Easter we attend church together, but the past two years we've gone to a church that we normally don't attend. I don't really know why we go to a different church--but it's a lot of fun. After church we then usually eat and hang out for a while. This year we came back to the house that I'm house-sitting at and made deviled eggs and green bean casserole for my family's Easter dinner.
But what's most fun about it all is that we've started these traditions on our own. As adults. And I love it.
Hopefully in the years ahead we'll establish traditions for other holidays, but for now we have our own traditions for Christmas, Martin Luther King Jr. B-day and Easter. Sometimes Thanksgiving too!
Oh what fun!
He has risen...He has risen INDEED!
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Friday, March 21, 2008
Cut up your Capital One credit card...
If you have a credit card with Capital One--I am sorry.
I used to have one (notice the past tense) and I no longer do.
They are awful.
And I'm not one to complain a lot--but when something gets bad enough--such as the customer service at Capital One--I think it's important to let others know in hopes of saving you anger and frustration.
If you have a Capital One Credit Card--cut it up. You will be happy you did.
Enough said.
I used to have one (notice the past tense) and I no longer do.
They are awful.
And I'm not one to complain a lot--but when something gets bad enough--such as the customer service at Capital One--I think it's important to let others know in hopes of saving you anger and frustration.
If you have a Capital One Credit Card--cut it up. You will be happy you did.
Enough said.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Feeding Your Soul...
A few days ago I went to see Carrie Underwood and Keith Urban in concert. Together. Carrie did her thing and then Keith came out and did his thing and then they did one song together. It was so great and so much fun!
One song that Keith Urban sings got me thinking a little...
The lyrics of the chorus say this:
Gonna kick off my shoes
And run in bare feet
Where the grass and the dirt and the gravel all meet
Goin' back to the well gonna visit old friends
And feed my soul where the blacktop ends
It got me thinking. What things feed my soul?
What things feed your soul?
Boy that was a great concert!
One song that Keith Urban sings got me thinking a little...
The lyrics of the chorus say this:
Gonna kick off my shoes
And run in bare feet
Where the grass and the dirt and the gravel all meet
Goin' back to the well gonna visit old friends
And feed my soul where the blacktop ends
It got me thinking. What things feed my soul?
What things feed your soul?
Boy that was a great concert!
Saturday, March 15, 2008
10 Things I L-O-V-E...
1. Meeting new people
2. Sharing a meal with friends
3. Bike riding on a sunny day
4. Chocolate (but none of this Hershey's business..) I'm talking about the good stuff.
5. Being warmed up by the warmth of the sun after being cold
6. E-mail
7. Looking at old pictures
8. Getting up, taking a shower, having breakfast and then laying back down in bed
9. Road trips--and stopping for a diet pepsi and snacks.
10. Kareoke...enough said...
2. Sharing a meal with friends
3. Bike riding on a sunny day
4. Chocolate (but none of this Hershey's business..) I'm talking about the good stuff.
5. Being warmed up by the warmth of the sun after being cold
6. E-mail
7. Looking at old pictures
8. Getting up, taking a shower, having breakfast and then laying back down in bed
9. Road trips--and stopping for a diet pepsi and snacks.
10. Kareoke...enough said...
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
How do we do that?
I talked to Jen tonight on the phone for 81 minutes. How do we do that? And we could have talked longer but warm comfy beds were calling each of our names.
I'm pretty sure there are very few other people I could talk to on the phone for that long. Actually none come to mind right now...
PTL for Best Friends.
I'm pretty sure there are very few other people I could talk to on the phone for that long. Actually none come to mind right now...
PTL for Best Friends.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Debated Question Update...
In my last post you can see I posed the question "Do you believe the saying: Whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger".
And I promised I would follow up with that...
The reason I asked that question was in response to a conversation I had with a friend about this statement. I've come to understand that this statement can be debated in many ways--all mainly based on personal experience.
I think regardless of if one believes this statement to be fully true or not, by thinking about it, it seems to bring up a lot of past experiences for people. Experiences where they felt like life was almost too much to handle...but they some how managed to survive.
This statement raised a lot of questions in my mind. Go with me here...
--Is it too bold to use the word "whatever" which is all encompassing in a statement like this? Does everything always make you stronger?
--What does "makes you stronger" mean?
--Is being "stronger" always a good thing?
--If something doesn't kill you but leaves you severely wounded is it better to look for healing in those situations instead of looking to be stronger?
Just my thoughts...
And I promised I would follow up with that...
The reason I asked that question was in response to a conversation I had with a friend about this statement. I've come to understand that this statement can be debated in many ways--all mainly based on personal experience.
I think regardless of if one believes this statement to be fully true or not, by thinking about it, it seems to bring up a lot of past experiences for people. Experiences where they felt like life was almost too much to handle...but they some how managed to survive.
This statement raised a lot of questions in my mind. Go with me here...
--Is it too bold to use the word "whatever" which is all encompassing in a statement like this? Does everything always make you stronger?
--What does "makes you stronger" mean?
--Is being "stronger" always a good thing?
--If something doesn't kill you but leaves you severely wounded is it better to look for healing in those situations instead of looking to be stronger?
Just my thoughts...
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Debated Question...
Do you think the saying, "Whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger" is true in all situations?
I'd love feedback. After a few days I'll let you know why I'm asking, but for now I'd just like to know what you think.
I'd love feedback. After a few days I'll let you know why I'm asking, but for now I'd just like to know what you think.
Monday, March 3, 2008
Happy Anniversary Jason and Brandie!
Tomorrow marks Brandie and Jason's 2nd wedding anniversary! They make such a great team and their love for each other and others is evident in all that they do. They are a couple I have no doubt will be celebrating many, many more anniversary's together!
Yes and Yes...
I get to spend the weekend with these tree lovely ladies and I am excited. Super excited. I love these girls and it's been waaaaay too long since we've all got together. Considering one lives in Oregon and one recently got married...life is busy, but this weekend will be filled with good conversations, good food and good times. It will be good for my soul.
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Having Some Trouble
I wrote two different posts and deleted both because I didn't feel I had any complete thoughts on either topic. So this is my post--and yes I know it's not really a post of substance, though I am thinking I am having trouble putting words to my thoughts. Hang with me...
On a side note...I went to Wal Mart today and found dark chocolate M&Ms on sale. I know, super sweet (no pun intended)!
On a side note...I went to Wal Mart today and found dark chocolate M&Ms on sale. I know, super sweet (no pun intended)!
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