Captivate Life

Apple Enchiladas (or Apple Dumplings)

2011-04-09T12:45:00.000-07:00

Trying a new recipe today! My great aunt told about this! And it looks delicious!

Apple Enchiladas

2 cans Cresent rolls
1c Brown sugar
1 stick Butter
1tbsp. Cinnamon
Mountain dew
2 Granny smith apples (16 pieces)

Core apples and cut in 8 pieces each
Mix brown sugar and cinnamon
Put one piece of apple in crescent roll with some of brown sugar mixture. Roll. Sprinkle some brown sugar mixture on top. Add melted butter stick to rest of brown sugar mixture pour over top all crescent in pyrex pan. Pour can of mountain dew in between rows
In Pyrex pan. Cook at 350' for 35-45minutes

20s Thursday

2011-02-11T21:33:00.000-08:00

Explanation:

Wednesday-fell asleep at 5:30pm...can you say exhausted?!

Thursday-Internet wasn't working...blah

So let's give Friday a try.

Twenties Thursday...pretty much self explanatory...we are all in our twenties and we get together on Thursdays (or Tuesdays, which ever permits).

This Thursday, we went to The Yardhouse for lunch, and it was delicious!

Now for introductions! First we have James, he's the blurry figure in the back left. He's from Missouri, moved to Houston, then back to Missouri, now back in Houston for good...at least for now. Video extraordinaire and co-creative genius. Second, Peter, the Asian guy next to James. He's from New Jersey, moved to Houston, works at our Faith Center. "Founder" of Twenties Thursdays. Next, Brit H., from Austin, went to school in Huntsville, lives Houston (I guess that's really a given for all these people). Full time with FCA. Phenomenal volleyball coach and mentor. Roommate in The Orphanage. Then, Charlotte, from Austin, graduated from A&M, she now calls Houston home. Old roommate, great friend. I'm the one next to her. Next, Rochelle, from Houston, graduated in Houston, lives in Houston, but probably will end up overseas (my guess, Spain). Soon to be Mrs. Tucker. Office extraordinaire! And last, Jordan. From Dallas, graduated from A&M, and now here. Fiance to Brit M. Leader of interns. New to office.

All great people, co-workers and friends. Seven very different stories all leading to this place, intertwined for this season of life. All learning, all growing. Most likely all ending up in very different places. Hopefully we will all remember how each one of us impacted the other. Glad to have each of them in my life, never to forget them.

Introduction wasn't necessary, but what about a blog is?

So welcome to Twenties Thursday.

My Tip for Tuesday

2011-02-08T20:51:00.000-08:00

Challenge: do something spontaneous this week

please forgive me

2011-02-06T20:49:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I got so wrapped up in yesterday I totally forgot to blog!! But it's ok, I am still here, no worries. I guess I was just enjoying time with friends last night, I forgot all about this "cyber-world".

Well today is Sunday, which always comes with so much thought and process. This week has been a very weird one. Lights going out. Terrible snow coming. No snow actually coming. Ice. Fun. Laughter. Sleep. Fellowship. Outlet Shopping with mom. Discovering Green. Reading in the sunshine. Well, with all this right in front of me, you can see how I didn't really feel inclined to sit at my laptop, but....

Let me introduce you to half of "The Orphanage"...

Jenn "Coco" Bonds, Sarah "SayJayTay" Taylor, Quimi "Spanish Speaker" Alaniz, and me(from left to right)

Spanish Speaker isn't her real nickname, but I didn't have one, so for now it'll do.

I cherish each of the girls I live with (there are three more that are NOT in this photo). They all come from different places, have completely different stories, and are all here for different reasons. But right now, in this moment in time, the Lord has put us all here in the same place, doing vastly different things, for the ultimate purpose of advancing the Kingdom of God. It looks different for all of us. But with this one thing in common we are able to encourage, give rest, have a lot of fun (which we do), and share what the Lord is doing from each perspective.

Honestly, I wouldn't change a thing about this moment in time. For the first time, in a long time, I actually enjoy where I am, what I am doing, and see the doors opening as an opportunity instead of a disappointment. It's not at all where I thought I would be. Or even where I wanted to be. But the Lord is changing me, which I am most thankful for. Freedom from chains I put myself in, and thought I wanted to keep. But with freedom comes joy. And for joy and freedom I am very grateful.

SNOW DAY!!!!

2011-02-04T23:03:00.000-08:00

Ok, so it didn't really snow. But the weatherman said it was going to, so doesn't that count for something.

Snow or no snow many people enjoyed a "snow day" off work today including Amanda, so she spent time with my roommates and I! We had a blast and Jen and I scratched ANOTHER thing of our to do list (more on that later though).

Today is for sharing of a great baking idea! Recipe to come, because at the moment I am in the dark writing this because my roommates ar

e sane and go to bed at a decent time. So recipe tomorrow hopefully!

But that doesn't mean I can't share a photo with you!

Ladies and Gentlemen (although I am almost there is only one or two actual people seeing this, it's fun to say) I introduce to you Amanda and Danielle's (not so) Famous Smore's Cupcakes!

Recipe's To Come

-Chocolate Cupcakes (to be honest, this recipe was a little dry, so changes may come)

-Marshmallow Topping with Cinnamon Graham Cracker Crumbs

Wish you could join our little sugar feast!

Comfort of Good Friends and Good Food

2011-02-03T20:49:00.000-08:00

Shout for joy in the Lord.... Psalm 33:1

Oreos. Chocolate chip Cookie. Vanilla Ice Cream.

Delightful.

Tonight was lovely. Food and friends (mostly roommates) what

could be better?! Yet, we are all waiting on the snow, which

might turn out to be a big joke. But we are trying to be optimistic about it.

Simple Joy.

Joy of an Unexpected Day

2011-02-02T20:22:00.000-08:00

Cold. Icy. Cold. No power. Oh and did I mention it was cold?!

Now I live in south Texas, that means hot and humid for most. Well, not today. Today my roommates and I awoke to a very cold and icy morning. Not to mention right in the middle of getting dressed the power goes out.

Already late for work, I decide oh well, it is what it is and so I'm just gonna breathe and move on. I get to work. no power there either. I should have known that being that I live on the other side of the parking lot of my job. So my co-workers and I met to evaluate the situation it was decided we would stay until noon and then assess the rest of the afternoon and week.

Something you should know, where I am from when it gets below fifty, no one knows what to do. It was, at this point just cold. No snow. No sleet. Barely any ice.

Noon came, and they said we should stay. My thoughts, "I'm out of here." (Along with a little tirade in my head about how I don't understand, which this happens a lot) Now I respect my co-workers and the people above me. But I wanted to do something that was something today. Which led me to my next destination.

Faith Center Clothes Closet and Food Pantry.

For three hours I got to hang out with one of my roommates (she works there) and some awesome volunteers. I did insignificant things like sort a few bags of clothes and hang a few bins of men's pants. But today was refreshing.

I have come to realize that I am in a place that allows me to serve the people around me, and to do it with the people in my life. I get so beat down by this rut and lie "I'm stuck here" that I constantly believe. But it is straight from the cunning enemy himself, who never wants us to be content on where God has intentionally placed us. I always what to know the next step. I won't know until He leads me there. Then and only then can I take my mind down that path of anxiousness, which in the right time with be joy overcoming that anxiousness, because I am meant to be there.

Today, I was meant to be exactly where I was. Exactly where I am. And I am certainly glad to be here.

Tuesday Night Bible Study

2011-02-01T21:20:00.000-08:00

Five. The parking lot's already full. Wait, what time does Bible Study start?

Six. Doors open, a mad rush of woman claiming not only their seats but the ones their jackets and extra books are slung over as well for the friends, who of course are in the dreadful line outside waiting for a place to park that will take them another ten minutes to walk from. (This is where I admit I also am guilty of slinging my jacket over seats tonight, I mean it's what happens when you have so many roommates, all in the fun of Tuesday nights)

Six-Thirty. Worship begins. Tonight Steven, Star and Lisa. Absolutely honored to have them leading us!

Seven. Bible Study. The Lord always speaks.

Tuesdays are great. :)

As for me, I call to God,

and the LORD saves me.

Evening, morning and noon

I cry out in distress,

and he hears my voice.

He rescues me unharmed

from the battle waged against me,

even though many oppose me.

Psalm 55:16-18

what to do?

2011-01-31T19:44:00.000-08:00

"Hey, Jen, have you ever been to (insert some out-of-the-blue restaurant, store, or coffee place)?"

"No."

"We should go sometime! It's really great!"

"Ya! We should make a list of the places we want to go!"

This conversation had happened one too many times as of today. So FINALLY, we have the start of a Houston to-do list! We even have something crossed off already!!!

Lots of places. Fun. Adventure. Silliness.

It's gonna be great!

It is most likely that this list will be seen again, hopefully with more added and more crossed off from the cornucopia of things already written. (hope you enjoy that one Jen, haha)

Of the maybe one person who might read this, if you have ideas throw them our way, we'll add them to the list!

Now on to Flora and Muse:

It is a charming cafe, coffee and flower shop in the City Centre. In the afternoon, peaceful. Evening, lively. Wonderful staff. Delectable food. Fabulous pastries and coffee. Their comfy couches call you to sit back, relax and enjoy the company around you.

It was rather a delightful evening. Lots of laughter and lots of adventure! Love this city!

Crown without the Cross?

2011-01-30T14:28:00.000-08:00

Today has been a fruitful day in my walk with the Lord.

Curtis spoke this morning at church on John 6: 35-66

This is a passage that is hard to here. When the disciples say, "This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?" You know it's gonna cut deep.

Question posed for the morning: Do you believe in Jesus? Really believe in Jesus? And more importantly, do you follow Him?

Before and after this sermon my heart has been tugged by our gracious and merciful Father.

In Sunday Bible Study with my girls we talked about the story of Noah and Hebrews 11:1,6-7 and Colossians 1:21-23.

What does it take for us to be completely obedient? What does it look like to earnestly seek Him?

And now, after a wonderful lunch with one of my SBS girls, Katy, I am chillin here at a coffee shop with some of my roommates and I pull out my devo for the day.

Job 5:17-19;6:1-4(v.18-He wounds, but he also binds up; he injures, but His hands also heal.)

Title: The God who Wounds

A few quotes:

"We want a god who will always give us what we want and will never reach us hard lessons. We want to be conformed to the image of Jesus with the chisel that shapes us."

"His wounds are never deeper than they must be, and never beyond His ability to heal."

I would say I agree with the things that have been put before me today. I think it would be prideful for us to say that we never need the wounds God gives or allows. Jesus had wounds, why should it be different for us. If we are to be shaped, molded into His image how can we say that it can be a completely comfortable process.

Change is never comfortable.

It challenges. It gives but also takes away.

We must deal with the characteristic of God. He is loving. We must take that into this. Why does He do this? Because He is preparing us for glory. He loves us far too much to allow us to stay the same. He MUST do things that cause change. To stir up emotions.

Life is never as good as it is when God is working. More pain, but more joy. More discomfort, but the outcome is always more reliance on the one and only Father, Creator, Savior. Who wouldn't want that?

I want to be about Him. He must mold and shape.

.......

2011-01-29T21:59:00.000-08:00

Needless to say, I don't have much to say.

I was reading a character study this morning about Jesus and something really has stuck in my mind all day.

In Luke 2, Jesus tells his fretful parents, who have been looking for him for days, basically that they knew should have known that he had to be in his Father's house. In this study, she mentions that the better translation from the original text would more likely be, "Didn't you know I had to be about my Father?"

That's what I want to be. All about my Father. His dreams. His goals. His story. The life He has for me. He wants to give life to the fullest. I take that. I want to be about Him. No longer me. No longer my job. My future, my dreams. To really take the time and discern where He is leading. What the Potter's dreams are for the clay.

Hope that speaks to someone.

-still in the backroom of the Orphanage (FYI that's what we named our house...more on that later), loving every minute of it here

because of His grace

long day

2011-01-28T22:10:00.000-08:00

For the first time ever I got summoned for jury duty. Yuck.

Well, that fateful day was indeed today. And I was at the courthouse early (what's new there?) this morning and had to stay all day long...

...and I didn't even get picked. What a waste of a day.

Things I would have changed about my first jury duty experience:

1. Gotten Starbucks before arriving. Paid for that one late in the day.

2. Would have eaten my lovely PB&J (that my very wonderful roommate made for me) NOT in the presence of six business men waiting to go to panel, one of which never shut his mouth.

3. Eaten lunch somewhere other than the courthouse caf, it was worse than my freshman year of college caf food, but I did find a vending machine machine on my way back up stairs.

...I'm sure there is much more ridiculousness from today, but I'm tired and that is all I can muster up.

-from the back room in the orphanage

a mom and two friends

2011-01-27T19:04:00.000-08:00

Tonight my mom took two friends and me to dinner. We ate a lot and laughed even more. It was just so fabulous! So blessed by my mom. So blessed by my friends and the things we've gone through together.

Having this group together tonight has made me think about the past few years and all that the Lord has done. Each one of these people represent significant things in my life.

My mom-redemption and forgiveness

Char-strength and love

Jen-peace and stability

The Lord has used each of these people significantly in my life. In the midst of everything of the past few years I never thought that this is what this side of all the tears, tribulation, fighting for strength, and struggle looked like. BUT I praise the Lord this is what it looks like, because THIS life is beautiful. I am beyond thankful. I am forever grateful. And I hope and pray I will never forget the significance of each of these beloved women in my life.

What to blog about?!

2011-01-26T21:06:00.000-08:00

Tonight, I begin. Tonight, day 1 of 30.

Jen says I can't do it, so here goes nothing. I know she believes in me, she thinks it'll make me want to do it more if she challenges me. So here it is, day 1 of a random 30-day challenge to get me into this blogging world that I have tried to be apart of for many years now...as you can see my first post was back in 2007!

Who knows what will come on of these fingertips the next 30 days...hopefully something that is at least interesting.

writing here from the couch in the orphanage (aka 167)

All it takes is ONE!!!

2010-11-07T16:06:00.000-08:00

All it takes is one. All it took was one strand of E.coli to be processed into one hamburger patty, to make it to one burger king, to one mom, whose one son, took one bite and the one life he had would then be over. All it took was a series of one events to lead to one of the biggest recalls on beef; because of one situation, America has never been the same.

In 2001, one man, Vernon Burger, who had, one passion, that being Jesus, took one trip, to Southern Sudan and connected with one bishop, who was trying to love and spread the gospel to many who were orphaned by the civil war. Since that one trip in 2001, HIS VOICE GLOBAL has been in an ongoing relationship with the EPC (Evangelical Presbyterian Church), 10 years and three orphanages later they seek to continue the movement to open a fourth.

You might ask the question what makes this place so special? Sudan was in war for over 20 years before signing a peace agreement in 2006. Until the peace agreement this was the longest civil war to date in human history, leaving over 2 million dead and many children without parents. So what makes this place unique!?!? Many things but one is there are many who have teamed up, like HIS VOICE GLOBAL and The Village Church, to be a gospel centered presence through proclamation and practice. While The Village Church has sent many teams to train pastors, equip leaders and love the children in these orphanages in Yei, HIS VOICE GLOBAL was the door that God used to bring a gospel centered presence from the west into this area of the world. Now there is an opportunity for you to be a part of this continued movement of Christ in this region for as little as a dollar.

This past September a group of 13 from all walks of life from Reach Records, The village Church, Red Revolution, Collision Records and HIS VOICE GLOBAL partnered under The Village banner to go and minister to those in Southern Sudan. They ministered through teaching, medical, music, and loving children who were victims of the Civil War that now live in one of the three Orphanages sponsored by HIS VOICE GLOBAL. Moved by the fruit there and continued need, Tedashii, Lecrae (Reach Records artist), Swoope (Collision Records artist) and Jai teamed up to do a single to raise awareness and funds for a fourth orphanage in Southern Sudan. The single, which is slated to be released November 16th under new label Collision Records is called Actions Speak Louder. This single and symbol seen above calls believers to move beyond awareness and put their prayers in motion, to quote the song. The symbol inspired by the scriptures that say a strand of three cords are not easily broken (Ecclesiastes 4:12), the exclamation points showing the immediate nature of the call to apply the gospel (Luke 4:18-19), the highlight of one exclamation point showing the power of one to change and lead others and the patch like design showing the reality that there is strength in numbers, calling believers to action, an action beyond themselves.

So leading up to this date will you be the one to blog, the one to tweet, the one to put a twibbon on your twitter account (see the twibbon below click on the link to support), the one to Facebook, the one to lead and allow you actions to speak as loud as your words. The average number of songs downloaded per day are close to 10,000,000 yes that is correct 10 million. Come November 16th HIS VOICE GLOBAL only needs over 250,000 one’s to download this amazing song (which is not even 10% of the daily average) to complete and have a fourth self sustaining orphanage. We are not asking you to change your lifestyle just point your efforts toward something that will last. The amazing thing about this whole campaign is that 100 percent of the profits from the song will go toward this fourth orphanage. All it takes is one!!!

the journey (RushWeek 2010)

2010-08-05T08:28:00.000-07:00

"For Christ's love compels us,
because we are convinced
that one died for all,
and therefore all died."
2 Corinthians 5:14

If you claim the name of
Jesus Christ,
what will the love of God
compel you to do today?

After spending a week in Pensacola, with some incredible high school students, this question rings in my ears.

This past week I was challenged to live the walk I claim every day to these students and step up to be the leader they needed so they could be stretched. I knew from the first time Rush Week was talked about that the Lord had great plans for this past week, but He did more than I could have ever imagined possible in a week. I was and still am completely blown away by these students and what the Lord is doing in and through them.

I have witnessed....
...a student understand and able to articulate the Gospel for the first time.
...a student share the Gospel for the first time.
...students pray for people they don't even know.
...students really love each other and WANT to serve together
...students, in front of my eyes, being changed by hearing the Lord speak and wanting obedience
...students and leaders fighting for each other in prayer
...intercession
...healing
...boldness
...lives changed for the sake of living and sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ

This week I saw students lives changed. And my prayer is that they bring it back here to Houston and in their schools and share what the Lord has done. Living lives in a manner worthy of the Gospel, loving unconditionally, serving faithfully, and depending only on God.

I was changed. I am thankful for the awesome group of students I was allowed to serve with this week. You challenged me and allowed the Lord to use you. Stay strong and stand firm. And always remember that the Lord is faithful.

"Go home to your family
and tell them how much the Lord has done for you,
and how he has had mercy on you."
Mark 5:19

The journey continues...

Missions...Photography...Summer

2010-06-16T12:09:00.000-07:00

So as I am getting back into photography I have an incredible opportunity to tag along on some of the ministry that our summer interns are involved in.Here is some of what I have edited,
I hope you enjoy.

"Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel..." Ephesians 6:19

life and birthday

2010-06-08T20:14:00.000-07:00

Yesterday.

June 7.

23rd Birthday.

Grace.

Mercy.

Blessing.

Leading up to Monday, my 23rd birthday, I thought it would be nothing special. Dinner with my family and maybe some "happy birthdays". I didn't expect much at all. The Lord blew me away...

I am truly blessed beyond belief with everyone the Lord strategically placed in my life. I am overwhelmed by the grace that He has poured over my life and the people He has allowed me to be around. I am so thankful that God has healed wounds in my immediate family and that we can celebrate together with joy.

I pray for you to see the things around you as a blessing, not burden. In joy and in pain the Lord wants to draw near to you. He will meet you where you are and make you something that you could never even imagine and take you places in your life that you never thought possible.

To all my friends and family that have been apart of my story I love you and I thank you so much for sharing life and love with me. I am grateful for every single one of you.

PS- Happy Birthday Joe! :)

Desire for Community

2010-06-01T15:15:00.000-07:00

I live selfishly. But that is not my desire. My desire is to live in true community with fellow believer's in Christ. Serving. Sharing. Growing. Living out the Kingdom. Right here, on earth. I don't believe that I am the only one with this desire. I believe that we were created to live in true community. Living out Truth, loving God, loving people.

So, if that's what we crave, why isn't it the way we live?

Maybe it's fear...

of stepping up, of living differently, of really loving people, and people really loving you. Maybe even fear of finally letting go and allowing God to do all that He desires to do in your life.

I have lived it. I have lived in a place where community happens, people loving and serving and growing to a depth with the Lord that they, I, never imagined possible. Walls broken. Hearts soften.

Right now, I live in a place where such a community is possible...but do we live it...year round? No. We don't share meals often, we don't share life. All longing for something that we refuse to work for. Well, here it is...the journey of working back to what life is supposed to be. Walking out the things that our souls crave. Building community. Here. Houston, Texas.

In all reality, it's summer, what a great time to start!

Spring Beauty

2010-04-05T18:47:00.000-07:00

You are my God.

You have created all things.

Beauty is what you see

as I stand before you.

Worry, fear and anxiousness

have consumed me before

but this time

this time I look up

I see the beauty you have created

around me and in me

and a peace that surpasses all my finite understanding

consumes everything I am.

I realize you hold me in your hand.

You hold my life, my circumstances close to your heart.

I feel your love.

I feel your pursuit.

And it is sweeter than anything I have ever known.

Spring time is here. Beauty is in bloom. And there are adventures to be had. I am ready, willing and waiting. The spring time is always the sweetest, always the time I don't want to end.

This is another beginning. Another spring. Time to bloom.

Starry Night

2010-02-06T22:52:00.000-08:00

Tonight...we went and looked at the stars...something you rarely get to experience in Houston.

They make you think.

We are small.

There is so much world out there.

Our God is SO big.

Why do we doubt?

What makes us think we have it all together? We know it all?

Reality check: we are small. God's got us.

Trust.

Simple delight

2010-02-05T22:41:00.000-08:00

One of the most joyous things...Chocolate covered strawberries....it's the simple things.

ps- I know...two posts in ONE day....this never happens! :)

First day of sun...

2010-02-05T12:02:00.000-08:00

Today is the first day of sun in a long time. It's like a breath of fresh air. Like a new start after the dreariness.

I am looking forward to Spring this year. Picnics. Pool. Grilling out. Growth. Springtime is always were I see the Lord move the most in my life, even though it often comes with great struggles attached. I'm ready.

Fresh start. New beginnings. Unknown adventures. Exciting moments.

I'm glad the sun showed up today. :)

Don't forget to enjoy life today, especially the small things...

Life in Moments

2010-01-26T09:30:00.000-08:00

This week has already been incredible, and it's only Tuesday!

Last night we had our weekly Monday night get together at the Altics and it was so sweet. This week we have all the interns here together and it was a good night of fellowship.

Kay shared about catching moments in life.

Moments are given to us by God to see His goodness and faithfulness, especially in the small things.

Most moments I remember have to do with laughter and/or tears. Like yesterday, full of laughter, such a blessing. I think that that day will be embedded in my mind for a long time, nothing significant, just sweet fellowship.

Are you letting life pass by so quickly you don't catch the moments?
Do the moments in your life reflect the gospel to those watching?

through the lense of the big city

2009-12-05T19:36:00.000-08:00

Pictures as promised, snow pictures soon too! Yep, that's right it snowed in Houston, TX!!!!! And I built a snowman!!

John Stamos!

Haha...first stop in the city...Tiffany's

Broadway.Food.New York

The Thanksgiving crew

Serendipity Frozen Hot Chocolate...Oh so good!

"Cake Boss" Bakery...this is where Thanksgiving dessert came from...yummy!

My friend from Madison Square Park...I call him "Petey" :)

Just a little of NYC....Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

New York, New York

2009-11-30T21:03:00.000-08:00

Here I am, sitting in the lobby of the famous Algonquin Hotel, the oldest hotel in New York. It is also a place where many TV shows are filmed and where a number of people have gotten their start in "the business". It feels great to be in such a place once treaded by so many that have fulfilled their dreams before me.

New York has been a great time, as always. I really just enjoy being here but this time there were a few things that made it special. We went to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. I met John Stamos :) and we also got to see the filming of an episode of Gossip Girl, which was so cool to see the way things work in film and what all goes into that kind of production.

One day I will fulfill my dream, to some capacity, of performing, whether it be Broadway, television or movies. I don't know how and I don't know where to start but I do know that I have the Lord on my side and whatever His plan is what will be in my life.

I am confident that there is a reason for my dream. If nothing comes of it, what a waste of passion, what a waste of talent. I would love nothing more than this to be my ministry. No matter what I want to give Him the glory and credit for whatever I become. I want to be held to that statement. It's not about me.

I will post pictures once I get home this week...I already can't wait to come back!

The here and now

2009-08-28T13:12:00.001-07:00

Here and now...I am working at the CLC and the Missions Office at HFBC ;)

After college, I now lead a very different life than before. Houston, not Dallas. A few friends, not an entire university. Two roommates, not five. The Lord, well He is still working just as much as He ever has before.

Houston, after summer, started out not so great. I had big expectations for my "after college" life, obviously I didn't think through it very well. But I knew without a doubt this is where the Lord wanted me. But for a while I was miserable.

Now, after much prayer, and much time taken aside to see what I really have here. I am enjoying it a lot more. The Lord has a plan, I don't know what it is. But I know He wants me here, ready to go where He leads, to give His name glory in all I do.

I am here to encourage you, don't give up on where you are in life. God is faithful. He loves you more than you can fathom and has your best interest at heart.

There are many things to come this year....it's going to be yet another adventure!

Where the journey begins

2009-06-04T11:56:00.000-07:00

The interns have arrived. The guys condo always smells like delicious homemade food. Lots of fun. Lots of conversation. And it's weird to think a year ago I was in their same position. They have no idea what's about to happen...

This summer looks a little different from my perspective though. I am living in an unfurnished condo with Charlotte and Becky. We have beds and that's all. No complaining though, it's fun and a safe roof over our heads. Every morning I wake up and work out with Charlotte and Becky and then we go into the office. We have a lot more freedom this summer and I find myself not knowing what to do with the passing time. We've drank a lot of Starbucks and caught up a lot on the past year.

My desire for this summer is to be used by God in whatever way He wants me. I think I know what this summer is going to look like but in all honesty I am sure I have no idea. And I still do not know what's coming in August. This has been my prayer today for me as well as the rest of the interns here as we start our journey together:

Psalm 34:1-4

That we will bless the Lord at all times; and his praise will continually be in our mouths. That our souls make their boasts in the Lord. Also that we would magnify the Lord and exalt his name together. We would seek the Lord and that he would deliver us from all our fears.

I am praying for my community back in Dallas and hope that the Lord does some mighty things all over the country as they serve this summer. The Lord is faithful and good.

Too Long...

2009-05-26T21:17:00.000-07:00

It's been way too long since my last post...you know I've never been very good at this!

Well, I graduated a week and a half a go! Yay for being a grown up I guess. I am in Houston at the moment, interning for the summer at HFBC. I am so excited to see what the Lord has in store this summer, it's going to be amazing!

Moving back was weird...I left a community of awesome families and friends that the Lord has graciously blessed my life with. I hope and pray that we all cross paths again. It was a definite answer to prayer and so hard to part from even though I know this is where the Lord wants me at least for this summer. From where I sit, I am excited about the adventure ahead...who knows where He will take me? It's going to be fabulous.

After graduation plans...

my answer...good question! I have no idea what I am doing August 1. I'm looking at sports marketing/photography or culinary school. We'll see what happens and I'll keep you posted this summer...hopefully. ;)

Recent Photoshoots

2008-12-05T08:12:00.000-08:00

So I have had the privilege to do family pictures for the Andres' fam whom I absolutely adore and had so much fun with...I thought I would share some with you...

I also got to take some photos of my old roommate, Kathleen, and her sister, Courtney, while she was in town from Colorado...so here ya go...

My roommate, Kat, and her lovely family!

such models! :)

She really like to model! love her!

I haven't been able to edit anymore of Kathleen and her sister (there will probably be more to come soon! )

I'll update life again soon! Love you all!

God Bless, grace and peace!

-Dani

Leaves Falling...But I'm Still Standing

2008-11-01T17:47:00.000-07:00

Well I wish the leaves were falling here. Texas = two seasons...hot or cold. I'm okay with the that though, I'm here and having a great time. I can't believe it is already November!!! That means six and a half months until me and most of my roommates graduate. So the main question is Danielle, what are you doing with the rest of your life, or at least when you graduate? I HAVE NO IDEA! I want to open a coffee shop somewhere soon, but not as soon as I graduate probably, it takes planning, which is hard to do while in school. So that takes me back to the beginning, which is....well, I don't know...let's get to graduation first. Maybe....just maybe I'll end up back in Houston.

But life now, senior year, has been a great time, definitely a learning time and joyous time with great friends, which I talk about in every post, but that's just because I love them so much!

Life around 1D(that's my townhome) is crazy, for all tenants. On this particular Saturday night, two of us finally get a rest, and it's glorious!

This past week as I was reading another Brennan Manning book, I read this, "It is the ego-dominated self that keeps us locked in a series of competitive moves and counter-moves, that induces us to manipulate people and control situations, that for most of us destroys inner peace and serenity in our lives. Trapped in the quest for security, pleasure and power, our moment-to-moment thoughts are concentrated on the dark pursuit of illusory happiness, and we are this in attentive to the Lord of Light. Our eyes are not fixed on Christ Jesus but on ourselves. We settle for a roller-coaster ride of exhilarating peaks and vertiginous valleys, interspersed with long periods of driving, pushing, and suffering in various degrees."

wow! a little long winded i know.

But it was kind of a kick in the face for me...

I've realized I am that person . Always wanting to control situations, even to the point of manipulating people, although most of the time it's subtle manipulation and unconscious. I don't even realize that I am trying to control it until...well, honestly, until I realize the Lord is trying to do something beyond my control. I have realized a lot of things I have done in the past were not genuinely from my heart but were manipulation, and I continually struggle with it...Praise Him for forgiveness, grace, mercy and love.

"Love is patient and kind...Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." 1 Corinthians 13:4,7

"But as it is written, 'What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him'" 1 Corinthians 2:9

Amen! I can rest in that!

Keep your eyes on the one who loves and ALWAYS will love, Jesus Christ!

And here is LIFE!

2008-10-15T20:58:00.000-07:00

Just an update and some thoughts about life.

Well, I just got off of Fall Break last week. It was fabulous, Brittani and I drove to Bolivar to visit some great friends, James, Ryan and Alex. We had the sweetest time spent with them. Loved every minute we were there. There is something about a small town and close friends that make me feel more in the presence of the Lord. Maybe it was just the quietness or the true community we have with our friends. Don't get me wrong, I love the city too but it is so nice to get away and be still. Miss y'all in Missouri! :)
*horrible picture, but it's the only one i have! :(

Also Jill got engaged Saturday night!!!! That really shows the Lord's faithfulness, she has held on with all she has to Him. She is amazing and has an unbreakable strength and love for Jesus! I am truly blessed by her! Praise Jesus for amazing friends!

Then Sunday night...THE TEXAS STATE FAIR....with Mel and Kathleen. We got in free so we spent a lot of money on food, such as, corn dogs, roasted corn, fried oreos (delicious!), fried latte (don't ask...not as cool as it sounds...disappointment), drinks, some kind of potato chip thing, and funnel cake, of course! :)

Crazies!

Now, I am back at school...and still loving it! Missing people but loving it here! My roommates and I have an amazing community that has become a safe place for all of us. It's awesome to see the way the Lord has worked through us the past couple years to bring us to this place together. Through good times and bad, when things looked like they would never get better, God brought through and now brought us together, and it is better than ever. We still have hard times but they don't seem hopeless anymore, we know that the Lord has already gone before us. There is always an encouraging word to come home to, a shoulder to cry on, an ear to just listen, someone to pray with and a joke to make you laugh (even in the hardest times). We are truly blessed, without the Lord and His grace and mercy we are undeserving. Praise the Lord for His greatness!

"And Jesus came and said to them, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.'"
Matthew 28: 18-20

Love God. Love People.

Make the most of the whatever opportunity the Lord has opened for you!

Good night, my friends! Sweet dreams!

D

oh the books...this ones for the woman

2008-09-24T20:35:00.000-07:00

"It's impossible for a woman to be everything she is called to be without radical, powerful, out-on-a-limb kind of belief in the promises and the person of Jesus Christ."

"Unless we have a consistent, intimate walk with the Lord, we will never really know who we are, because we were made in His image. Unless we learn to love His presence, we will never really know what we possess in Him...Unless our hearts beat in sync with Jesus, we will never know what kind of impact we can make in this world."

"Though we have trials, His promises are true. Though we may not feel Him at times, He is still there. And though the enemy would love for us to settle for less, God gets absolutely giddy when we reach for more...Don't put more faith in your obstacles than you do the promises of God. Don't give more credence to your limitations than you do to God's unlimited capacity to intervene."

"He longs for us to hear His whisper, I know you and how transient you are. I know what makes you weak and I know what makes you smile. Trust Me in this. I've fashioned for you a life assignment that fits you perfectly. It's not too heavy for you but it's weighty enough to strengthen you. Develop your gifts, care for the least and the lost, and love Me first. This is the powerful life."

"You must always remember that you are a woman of extreme worth. You are royalty."

Women...I hope and pray that we desire and are passionate about living an uncommon life. One that is out of the ordinary, NOT normal. That we desire to know God more each and every moment of every day He allows us to wake up in the midst His beautiful creation. That we live with holy confidence and humble dependence on Him. That we will love radically and serve powerfully because we live by the Spirit.

You are loved.

You are cherished.

You are wanted.

You are beautiful.

You are the beloved of an all-powerful, merciful, grace-lavishing God.

Praise the Lord.

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all
we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,
to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus
throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Ephesians 3:20-21

Stay strong women of God.

The enemy is already defeated.

-all quotes are from The Uncommon Woman by Susie Larson (great book!)

Today

2008-04-14T11:08:00.000-07:00

Hello to all my friends back home (and whoever else chooses to read this),

So, I have come to realize something…I am a horrible blogger. I mean, I have all good intentions and, very frequently have the urge to blog. I think that my problem is time and of course the random babblings of my crazy mind. Usually there is just so much I want to write about I don’t know where to start, then I get overwhelmed and I don’t end up writing anything. I promise to all my friends that actually read this that I will work on that! Please forgive me. And forgive this really long post…

Well, anyways, it has been a month since I last wrote and since then there has been a lot of thoughts and things to catch up on. Lately, all I have really been doing is hanging out with me roommate, Jessica, and studying. Yes, you read that right, and I also know that that sounds crazy.

The Lord has just blown me away this semester with all that He has taught me and shown me. This semester has really been a time of rest and rejuvenation. It’s been nice to really dive into friendships and actually have the time to really get to know people’s hearts and share my heart with people. A few weeks ago while reading 1 Peter I found this verse, “Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart” (1:22). I kept thinking about “love one another deeply”, what does that even mean, to love someone deeply?! I hope one day I will be in a place where I can say I have loved deeply.

That’s my prayer lately, to learn to love no matter what. To really show people that they are loved, especially my friends, I have a hard time expressing my love for people sometimes when I get close. Actually I tend to push people away and don’t even know it. Looking back it’s kind of frustrating because there are some amazing people in my life that I have completely shut out, and not for any particular reason and without me knowing I was doing it until it was too late. That's something I am working on.

Well enough of all of that! Other things that have been happening in my life:
1. I started writing a short story. I have no idea why I had this urge one night, but I did, so I started writing. It has been much like my blogging though. I have so much to write that it is hard start because it isn’t in any order in my mind. So needless to say I have some written, but it’s unfinished and waiting for more words to complete the story or even make sense to anyone but me.

2. I have gotten this awesome opportunity to maybe be a mission intern at HFBC this summer. I just finished the application!!! I am so excited and I hope and pray that it all works out. It is such an amazing opportunity to grow in the Lord and serve inter-city kids and churches. I don’t think I have had an opportunity like this to just learn and soak in the Lord for the whole summer without the distraction of studying….yuck. That is one awesome thing about college, getting these chances that you could never do otherwise. Just pick up and go. I will definitely keep you updated on all of that and please keep this in your prayers (for me and my friend Brittani who is applying as well)!!

3. My online business stuff…it’s going…kind of. I haven’t had time to update and post new stuff. Maybe soon I will. I have been experimenting with different ways of advertising and I haven’t found one that works all that well. I will keep trying and let you all know when new stuff goes up…
www.captivatedcreativity.etsy.com

Ok, so I have a confession to make. I blog-stalk. I love to read blogs. People are so creative and witty; I wish I could be like some of them. It’s so cool!

Now that that is out, I have to tell you about a post that really made me think the other day. I was reading a friend of a friend’s blog and she was writing about her husband. He apparently is really great writer so I thought I would check his out. She had a link directing you to a specific post, so naturally I clicked on it.

This post was call “Table for One”. By the way, his wife was right, he is a really great writer. Nonetheless, the first thing caught my eye was- he was in this restaurant (by himself on a business trip) and watching some of the people around him. If you know me well, you know that I love to people watch and occasionally imagine myself in other people’s lives or situations. He was watching a young married couple that was very much in love and another group of people that were saying goodbye to each other. As he starred at the empty seat across from him he started to imagine what was to come later in life. For instance, the woman that one day would be his wife and sitting across from him in that booth. He talked about the excitement, the meaning and depth of that relationship. Then he saw another girl but a much younger one, his daughter, which he may one day have. And the love that come with all of that.

I find myself sometimes imagining the very same things. I never really talk about them to people though. Sometimes I imagine myself maybe 5 or 10 years down the road, hopefully married and living life with a man that has seen something in me that no one else did and loves the Lord and what He has done in life. I imagine us making dinner together, laughing at things that probably wouldn’t make sense to anyone else, messing up, having way too much fun, hopefully not taking our life together for granted, loving each other with a love no one else can understand. I can’t wait to show my family it can be done…be an example of a product of what the Lord has done through many difficult and trying trials. It’s going to be incredible…and hard and lovely and divine and definitely an adventure!!

Haha…I apologize for my randomness as well as the length of this post…I hope to see you all down in Houston this summer!!

Much Love,
D

almost Spring Break?!?!? What!??!

2008-03-06T21:14:00.001-08:00

okay so...this semester is HALF WAY OVER!!! do you ever have those moments you just realize time is rushing by you?! That is what I feel like!! In less than a year a half I am going to GRADUATE......COLLEGE. oh my gosh! I can't believe it. This semester has been absolutely amazing, God is working, me and my friends are having a great time....and it definitely snowed the other day and may again TONIGHT!! yay! Well here are some pictures just to show my semester....
well...we got a new roommate...Aly....she is wonderful and we have sooo much fun!....we randomly went to Waco, and visited Laura and went to COMMON GROUNDS!!! (and Cafe Cappuccino as you can see above)...*thats my friend Kristin and my lovely roomie, Jess!

....um...this is Veronica in the SNOW....i love snow!
and finally....roomie weekly smoothie date!!! we are ready for summer! :)

Well, that's a little taste of this semester! It has been fabulous. God has been working on me A LOT and I am so excited about what is in store for my life. It's unknown to me and I am ready for the adventure! I am just chillin here, and lovin every minute of life.....

I hope and pray that all my far-away friends are soaking up life and enjoying their adventure, I love you all!

Provider of ALL things

2008-02-18T18:36:00.000-08:00

And God will generously provide all you need.
Then you will always have everything you need
and plenty left over to share with others.
2 Corinthians 9:8 (NLT)

I, because of the heart the Lord has bestowed upon me, love to serve and give everything in me to others. All glory to the Lord, and because of Him I love to share everything that I have been blessed with. Whether it be food, money, or a good time; anything I love to share. You wouldn't really think that that would be a bad thing EXCEPT when you are a poor college student, as I am.

Recently, actually about two months ago, I quit my job. I didn't have really a great reason for doing in most people's minds, I just knew that is not where the Lord wanted me anymore. I had come, did whatever He had me there for and then He said it's time to leave. I figured as soon as I got back to Dallas from Christmas break I would get a job, no problem. YEAH RIGHT!! God obviously had different plans.

These last few weeks I have had barely any money, my mom has been very patient and gracious with me. She has told me just to keep praying about it and the Lord will provide. And guess what, He did!!!

Tonight, I was provided with groceries from a friend's family who had no idea what was going on. The Lord has totally blessed me through this small act of kindness that they showed me and I am so grateful for their giving hearts.

Also, through not having a job yet, the Lord has provided with some amazing opportunities to get to know new people and hang out and fellowship with my best friend and roommate, Jess. So far this semester has been such a blessing and the Lord has just amazed me with the small things in life. He is re-teaching me the lessons I have doubted and showing His love for me, His daughter.

God is good, He is THE Provider.

Have faith. Just trust Him.

My Life in Retrospect

2008-02-05T20:38:00.000-08:00

But if we hope for what we
do not have yet,
we wait for it patiently.
Romans 8:25

I have desired for so many things in my life time. If you know me at all you know I have way too many ambitions to count. And sometimes I get so impatient and I think that I have waited long enough and God simply says it will come just be patient.

God always seems to slap me in the face at just the right moment. You know when things get to that certain point and you just want to scream. That is where I was Sunday night, and I was walking around campus and flipping through my bible. I found this verse, Romans 8:25, that in my bible I have underlined so many times it has almost torn through to the next page. Guess I have learned this lesson a few times.

There are so many times that I go through life thinking and even saying, "Life would be so much better if just this one thing would happen". But in all honesty, if that one thing comes too fast, we will only hope for the next big thing. If we are patient, we have time to enjoy the amazing things that happen, the little things we usually take advantage of.

Bottom Line: Enjoy life and every part of it, it's a gift from God!

Ah, it's February!

2008-02-01T00:47:00.000-08:00

So today officially starts the second month of 2008! I still can't even remember to write the correct year yet. Crazy!

So lots happened during the end of January. My apartment lost a roommate, Meredith, whom we miss very much. We also gained a new roommate, Aly, who is so fun! More on all that to come soon...and pictures!

Dallas has been so much fun these past few weeks. I visited a place that I have wanted to go to for a long time called Sprinkles (www.sprinklescupcakes.com). It is this fabulous little cupcake boutique that sells cupcakes and coffee. Anyways, when me and some of my freshman girls went the line was OUT THE DOOR!! Oh my, who knew people loved cupcakes so much! But it was a great experience. Oh and for all of you living in Houston, there is another absolutely wonderful place called Sugarbaby's Cupcake Boutique (www.ilovesugarbabys.com). Which I honestly like better, and its adorble! Go check it out!

Another very large thing that happened in the past week is I opened, Captivated Creativity, my own online store!!! I have wanted to do this for so long and I finally did. You should definitely go visit, and tell EVERYONE you know about it! captivatedcreativity.etsy.com
There are just a few things on there right now I will continue to add things, so keep checking back!

The Lord and I have been so good as well! I am doing a Beth Moore 90 day Jesus study and it is incredible. There is so much that we pass over in Scripture because we always see it as the same old story. God is good and is directing my steps here at DBU!

Well I am off to bed! Have a blessed Friday, rejoice for the weekend!

and don't forget ---- captivatedcreativity.etsy.com

Finally.......2008!!

2008-01-14T21:37:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I know it's been FOREVER since I last wrote, and so much has happened since then. I got a new job and then quit and I am about to start working at Starbucks.....be excited!! Anyways I won't bored you with all the details.

I am starting the last week of my Christmas Break and into the oh so fun yet so busy second half of my junior year. This last semester was a whirlwind and it's so good to beginning refreshed and rested. God has been simply amazing and, as always, extremely patient with my selfish, stubborn self. He has brought me along way from where I was this summer.

For those of you back home reading this, I'm sorry that I haven't done a very good job of keeping up with you. All of you are such a blessing in my life and definitely a gift from the Lord in high school. And I can't wait to hopefully soon catch up and see what's all been going on.

For all you here in Dallas, I am immensely thankful for you and couldn't ask for better encouragement in times that it is needed most. God is doing great things and I can see it through all of you.

So now, here are some updates on things coming up.
1. I will write more here....all kinds of fun stuff.
2. Soon I will start selling stuff on etsy.com......I will definitely keep you updated on that
3. I am looking at going to culinary school when I graduate....which isn't for a while but keep in your prayers please!

Be back soon!

Mercy....what we certainly do not deserve

2007-07-09T21:12:00.000-07:00

Ok, think about this. GOD!

Really. He created EVERYTHING. And I mean everything from the smallest detail to the largest things to ever exist! He not only created everything but came up with the concept of it. He created each individual person and developed their personality. All the creativity, logic, and craziness of this world was created and thought up by our heavenly Father. Now, even more to add. He knows EVERYTHING. He knew exactly when each one of us would be born. He knew before we were born what we would be doing, down to the second, today. He knows the choices we have made and will make in the future. Our God is AWESOME.

He deserves every little bit of praise that we, as screwed up humans, can muster up with our human languages. And yet that STILL does not do Him justice. He is more than we could ever imagine or even begin to create in our minds. And He has a plan for our lives that is out of this world. His plan for us is more than we ever thought possible or could ever plan. All we have to do is love, have faith and trust that God, the creator of EVERYTHING (even you remember), knows us and what is best for us.

So why don't we trust the Creator of our very being to have our best interest in mind? Honestly, I have no idea! And it is frustrating to me to know that I should and desire to BUT I STILL DON'T. Talk about human stupidity.

So think back to God. Take some time and realize how amazing and ravishing our Creator and Father is. He is the reason for friends, laughter, family, children, joy and anything else that is sweet and pleasurable in this life.

REMINDER: Don't forget to thank Him for all that He has blessed you with, because we certainly don't deserve anything he has mercifully lavished upon us as humans. He is definitely a loving and merciful God and for that I give ALL my thanks and ALL my praise to! There is nothing in this world that could even remotely get close to His glory...because remember He created it ALL ;)

My Life Now..

2007-06-25T21:38:00.000-07:00

So many things are going on...I am so sorry, to the people back home, because I have not updated in so long.

So I am still out at camp, working away. I am loving every minute of it. Every Monday morning we are bombarded with over a thousand kids and its AMAZING. I love having all these little 3rd-6th graders running around this enormous property we call Mt. Lebanon Camp. We, the summer staff (50 college students), so everything here from serve meals to clean up trash to run all the elements (pools, zip tower, alpine tower, etc.). Working up to 14 hour days on little sleep we try our very best to keep our faith and strength in the Lord. We get up every morning with the anticipation of those hundreds and hundreds of kids just waiting to walk through the doors of the dining hall were we await them with plastic gloves and wet towels.

I am the photographer for the camp. It is a really fun job. I was trained as a regular staffer to work out here but I get to be wherever I want during the week. I get to hang out with all these fabulous campers and get to know them. As the days close we, as staffers, should go to bed right away. But after a long day of working with the little ones we want to hang out and encourage each other. we stay up late talking and getting to know each other better. When we leave camp we will have life long friendships and we will never forget the summer of 2007 when we all first met and grew together as brothers and sisters in Christ.

So I do have one thing to ask.....will you please pray for me as the summer continues? I am dealing with alot spiritually and mentally. The Lord is definitely teaching me alot. This prayer would be a huge encouragement for me. Thank You so much

.......and........

if you would like to send a letter to me (i love mail!!!!) you are more than welcome to use this address:

Mt. Lebanon Baptist Encampment

PO Box 427

Cedar Hill TX. 75106-0427

Love Yall Much!!!

Where's Your Focus

2007-05-31T21:23:00.000-07:00

What is your central focus throughout the day? Is it approval? Is is getting attention or love from someone? Is it school or work?

Galation 1:10
Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.

I read this yesterday and it has really hit me hard. As I am working here at this camp what is my daily focus? It should be the Lord. So if I know that, then why is it so hard to actually do. I find myself focusing on so many other things during the day and really none of it matters. Whether it is work, worry, or approval of friends, the Lord is still in control. The Lord has a plan and knows what will happen and has my best interest in mind, so why worry? why even focus on other things that don't matter and will, in the end, be a waste of time?

I am realizing that this adventure that the Lord is taking me on is one that I need to just let go and rely completely on Him. It's still hard though. How do I get my complete focus on the Lord all day every day?! That is my desire...to be so focused on Him that my love for Him is incomparable to any thing in my life. Please keep me in your prayers as I am out here at camp.

God Bless! Have a great weekend!

Craziness..............

2007-05-30T21:12:00.000-07:00

So I know I haven't written in a while....I have been crazy busy with camp! Which is going great by the way!

So the Lord has yet again amazed me. This summer was expected to be great, no doubt about it. But this week it has rained everyday and we have canceled most of our activities....which at first made it so boring for some of us because there wasn't much we could do. But now that I look back on it, it really has been a blessing....i mean for the next 10 weeks this place with be 100 degree weather with over 1000 kids running around. So this past couple days I have been able to relax a little and hang out with a few great friends, and it has been really encouraging. So yes once again God is good and I am so excited to see what He has planned for the rest of the summer.

I will try to keep y'all posted. Keep strong in the Lord....(He's ALWAYS there).

Bittersweet

2007-05-08T21:16:00.000-07:00

Can you believe tomorrow ends my second year of college? Time flies by so fast and we want it to fly even faster. When I look back honestly I wouldn't have wished time away so fast.

As the end of this year is approaching within hours, I begin to look back on the my bittersweet second year of college. There are many things that I am so glad that I did and a few things I would have done differently.

The fall of 2006 came at me fast, having a lot of struggles carry over from summer. I was full of loneliness and a feeling of unworthiness. I was in the midst of great change in myself and with my relationship with my beloved Savior. The Lord threw a lot at me and all He wanted was for me to completely depend on Him. He finally made me realize the dissatisfaction of human relationships and the complete satisfaction He gives.

My mom mentioned the other day that I will soon be 20 years old. OH MY GOSH!!! I can't believe that I am about to be in my twenties. I have so much that I want to accomplish in my life and sometimes I feel like I am behind. But honestly life is just beginning for me. God is bringing me through my struggles and trials only to be stronger and mold-able for Him and His purpose. I am ready for my adventure to continue and just get better.

After tomorrow, my last final (HALLELUJAH, PRAISE THE LORD!!!) for the semester, I will embark on another adventure, tackle more difficulties and rejoice in more triumphs. I'll keep you posted! ;)

2007-05-05T22:04:00.000-07:00

....in my life

2007-05-01T20:25:00.000-07:00

So lately the Lord has really been teaching me to trust Him. Constantly in scripture and in my own life experiences He has shown this to me. I am working through a lot of trials in my life right now and He keeps telling me that the only choice I have is to run straight to Him. He is the only one with the strength I need to get through the day with out completely breaking down with a feeling of worthlessness.

I also have recently learned it's all about the heart. I know my worth in Christ and know that I need to trust Him with everything. I KNOW a lot of things, but knowing isn't enough. I am trying to apply all I know to my actions in my life. I am changing my heart, slow but it's happening.

Another realization I have had is that all of us, as Christian brothers and sisters, need to be encouraging and help each other out because we really never know where someone is at or what someone is dealing with.

All of this to say, encourage, pray for and pray with your friends....they may be dealing with a lot you don't understand or even know about. And you never really know what the Lord is doing in someone's life.

My Perspective

2007-04-25T16:24:00.000-07:00

Apology: To the guys, this post is for all the lovely women out there seeking to be women of God, yet still frustrated with life. This is an encouragement to them! You are more than welcome to read it but it might make you believe that women have it so much better than guys do.....so just a warning... :)
Okay so here we go:

Today I had yet another revelation:

I love being a girl!

Now most people that know me know that I am not all that girlie most of the time. Actually I am usually included in "the guys" or recently some have deemed me a "dude", and honestly sometimes I get very frustrated at the fact that I am a girl, because of all of the negativity and emotions that come along with it. BUT today I realized being a girl is amazing! My realization came today as my office threw a baby shower for my boss, who is having her baby girl in July and that in itself is SO amazing. As I was helping decorate and set up I was thinking of all the times in the past that I have had so much fun just because I was a girl. Girls have so much of an advantage because they can do all the guys can and even more.

The advantages and adventures we have ONLY as girls (the things guys won't ever understand):
~Girl's Night Out- Any girl knows exactly what I am talking about.
~Girl's Night In- otherwise known as sweats, no makeup and lots of food (a lot of chocolate), movies, dancing; basically a time to let loose and be yourself COMPLETELY!
~Wedding Showers/Bachelor-ette Parties- Not many times are designated for girls can get together and talk about weddings, marriage, and....well you know! haha ;)
~Baby Showers- Celebrating the beginning of another's life, or your own new baby's life with all your friends
~Getting all "dolled" up for no reason
~Dress Up
~Jewelry
~Crying for absolutely no reason- its good to have a good cry every now and then (guys, we know you will NEVER understand this, but that's okay)
~Planning a Wedding- Now I know I am not married, nor am I close but almost all my close friends are married or engaged and I have helped plan quite a few, and it is definitely an advantage for a girl. I mean you get to be a princess for the day with the man you are madly in love with....not much is better than that
~Being a wife- being with the love of your life EVERYDAY
~Being a mom- I can only imagine what it's like to become a mother, to have a child of your own and be able to love them with everything you have in you; to be compassionate, loving, and the example of Christ they get to see everyday
~Mother/Daughter days- nails done, shopping, coffee, talking.....there is no more to be said about that, one of the best things about being a girl
~Manicure and Pedicures- relaxation and being pampered :)
~Being pursued by the one who loves you
~You have the most amazing Father and Lover of all time, the Lord- more than any man could ever even think about being
~Girlfriends-a relationship and connection with other girls that no one would ever understand
~Dance Parties
~Shopping- an outlet of a frustrating day or just for pure fun
~Bubble Baths
~Girl Talks- late night, let everything out kind of a thing....sometimes the best therapy
~Be strong, yet weak at the same time....

...well these are just SOME advantages to being a girl, some big some little, but all necessary!!

a quote i once read:
"While the men in this world might have it easier, women are definitely having more fun, with a few laughs to be had along the way! " ~Anonymous

Well this was just a little venting....I hope all the women out there are loving life and realizing the adventure the Lord is taking them on!

Have a fabulous day!

PS- GIRLS: if you think of anymore please post them here on a comment.....love you all!

Life is Amazing.....

2007-04-23T19:02:00.000-07:00

So why is life so amazing you may ask! Well that is a simple answer, it is because God is is absolutely 100% and without fail amazing in every situation and EVERY circumstance. Today, Monday, which usually are horrible days for me has been so wonderful. I had nothing in particular happen to me except the mere fact that I had a sense of the Lord with me all day long. As I sat at America's Best Coffee (my usual study place), I just started to think about all the awesome opportunities that God has placed in front of me lately. So simple thought for this Monday...Life is amazing because of the simple fact that God is amazing and His grace is evident daily in my life.

....this subject....there is more to come!! :)