through the adventures of life

Do You Know What This Means?

2012-01-12T21:20:00.003-06:00

So I leave for Moldova in 6 days. Leaving for Moldova means the last semester of my high school is starting. This last semester means I have made it through 7 semesters of high school already!! This also means I am so very close to graduation! After graduation means I get to enjoy a wonderful summer before college. This summer also marks the last summer before college!

Do you know what all of this means?

My trip for Moldova all leads up to an exciting nonstop season and means college is very close!

Woah! Okay, I am done rambling. If you cannot tell, I am so excited about this season... and college :)

Take Me Deeper

2012-01-10T21:44:00.000-06:00

This has been a long awaited post but I am finally getting around to playing catch up on sharing different things God has been showing me and what is going on in my life.

These past few months have been so full and extremely busy. The fall semester I spent quite a bit of time acclimating to my senior schedule and working out college details. Academically it has been a challenge which can be stressful at times. My time management skills have faltered a little. It is so abnormal and I am looking forward to overcoming that in the spring semester. I tried to blame it on senioritis but I don't need an excuse because that just causes my motivation to decrease even more.

Academics are important to me. God calls us to work at everything we do with all of our heart as if we were working for Him and not for men (Colossians 3:23). That inspires and encourages me. This semester (in my school struggles) all of it became so tedious and mundane. I became restless in my day to day living. Frustration slowly crept in as I sought the Lord in all areas of life but specifically in my academics. I desired to spend time in His presence but the overwhelming amount of school was a battle. I lived freely and fully and enjoyed life. I really did make wonderful memories but there was this unspoken frustration when it came to school and just important tasks I needed to get done.

I lacked motivation academically. The lack there came from the lack of excitement in a way spiritually. Yes, God is constantly teaching me and opening my eyes to a different perspective but I felt dry and needed refreshment. That is exactly how I felt academically.

At this time I became weaker. My strength drained even more. But His strength became more evident. In my weakness, His strength was greater. God was breaking me so that He could be my source of strength. He was taking me deeper.

These past few months that has been a constant process. My weakness has become more obvious but only so His strength could become mine (2 Corinthians 12:9-10) so that I could grow into a deeper level with Him. This past semester God used academics to reveal that. Even in school I cannot do it in my own strength. When I try to do even those little things on my own I become frustrated and drained. God created us to need Him and and I am learning that. If I am purposeful about my time with the Lord His strength will be mine in my weakness.

"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." -Matthew 6:33

Jesus is talking to the multitudes and previous to this verse he explains that if God takes care of the birds of the air how much more will He care for us? He encourages them to not worry about the daily things in life but be faithful in seeking the Lord first and everything else we need He will take care of.

That has been my motivation and what will carry me this semester. I am learning every day how refreshing the presence of God is and the strength I gain from Him. I look forward to this last semester of high school to live out all that God has taught me and is continuing to teach me. I will definitely need that as I continue into college and medical school especially. I love how He prepares us for all that He has for us. I see the preparation and am so thankful for God's personal relationship with us.

Christmas Festivities

2011-12-24T01:58:00.007-06:00

For years Ash and I have wanted to plan a Christmas dinner party. But more specifically a progressive dinner. At least ten New Years Eves ago my parents were a part of a traveling dinner party which sparked the interest in me. It is one of those things that gets talked about but never happens. This year I am set on doing things I have not done over the years to make the most of my last year in high school :) This party was one of them...

We started out with appetizers and mingling at the Sellars... Thank you Aunt Dana for opening up your beautiful home to us :)

We then drove across the street to the Pollocks to enjoy a few bites of salad before continuing onto the Harkins for a delectable main course including pasta and chicken with sauteed veggies plus Holiday Punch!

After a time of spontaneous worship, we left for the final house (our home) for desserts and games.

Altogether it was a lovely night. It was a refreshing night and a wonderful way to enjoy our break and this special season. The memories made so far have been amazing and I know there are so many more to come :)

A Christmas-y Night!

2011-12-04T23:43:00.004-06:00

Tonight we finished the Christmas decorating, enjoyed a meal cooked by my dad, then ate homemade banana pudding while watching White Christmas.

I love this season! It is so busy but it is also full of wonderful traditions. Our big Christmas tree is now displaying the multiple collections of ornaments us kids receive over the years. So many of them are from my Nana. Lots are from my Memaw (which we still receive). Then some our from our parents!

Tonight we watched one of many Christmas movies that will be viewed these next few weeks! White Christmas is my favorite holiday movie. We watch it every year... and always sing along :)

I love Christmas. I love the lights and the decorations. I love the traditions and the celebrations. To me, it is all a constant reminder of the birth of our Savior.

Refining Your Heart

2011-12-03T01:18:00.004-06:00

"Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart." -Psalm 37:4

What does it mean to "delight yourself in the Lord?" Because when you do that you will receive the desires of your heart. I wanted to discover what that meant. More importantly I wanted the desires in my heart to line up with the heart of God. I desired to discover His heart so that I could be who He made me to be.

So began the journey of seeking God's heart and His will. It really was simple... much more simple than we make it out to be. In this journey I asked God to humble my heart so that I would be open to His will in my life. I continually prayed that He would align my heart with His.

In this process I learned just what delighting myself in Him meant. Asking God to make His desires yours is delighting in Him. It is delighting in who He made you to be. As you continually allow the Lord to refine your heart you're delighting in Him. When you delight in Him you receive the desires of your heart. Because you have delighted in Him your desires are His desires. Ultimately you are walking out His will in your life because you are allowing His heart to reflect in yours.

We try so hard to do everything we can to please God or just to do the right things. We were never made to do. We were made to be. Be people who reflect the heart of God and bring glory to Him.

When we learn to just live in worship of Him and pray for His will in our lives we are learning to be who He made us to be.

This verse has become a daily reminder to humble myself before Him and ask that His will be done in my life. This verse has also brought me great comfort. It is easy to wonder if I am where He wants me; being the person He wants me to be. I trust, though, that if I am delighting myself in Him my life will be a reflection of the Hannah He wants me to be.

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Day 24}

2011-11-24T23:32:00.000-06:00

The end of the Thanksgiving celebrations has come but it has been a wonderful few weeks celebrating this beautiful weather and the abundant blessings in my life. The thankfulness continues even into this Christmas season.

God's Word tells us to give thanks always and I am encouraged to be mindful of the many blessings I have. I absolutely love Thanksgiving. I love the baking and the warmth of a home during the slight chill. I love the reminder to be thankful and to recognize all that we do have.

It's a wonderful transition into the busyness of the Christmas season. Thanksgiving produces gratefulness and causes reflection. This time of year can be so hectic but Thanksgiving slows us down. I really believe God uses this time to prepare us for Christmas if we allow Him. Be thankful always. Don't allow the gifts and the shopping to consume you. Remember why we celebrate this holiday. Be thankful for the gift that God sent us.

That is why I am thankful on this day of Thanksgiving. God sent His Son into the world so that we could have life. Are we making it worthwhile? Are we remembering that every step of the way? He gave us His special and beloved Son because He loved us that much. Remember that during this season which really is all about the gift of Jesus.

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

John 3:16

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Day 23}

2011-11-23T01:14:00.001-06:00

Today I am thankful for the wisdom of an older sister. When challenges come in life and there are tough decisions to be made a sister is a good person to talk to. She understands you. Older ones have experienced more than you and hopefully have learned from those experiences in order to offer advice and words of encouragement.

They don't expect perfection but believe that you can do everything and anything. They provide a realistic outlook on life when needed; they also know how to dream. They're fun, inspirational, and in my case, crazy!

I am so very thankful for my big sister and the encouragement she gives!

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Day 22}

2011-11-22T01:25:00.001-06:00

I am so thankful for each and every one of my siblings.

We are so different yet so connected. We know how to have fun, how to laugh, and how to have adventures! It's a very special bond we all share and I love that we all enjoy being together so much. As we grow up and our personal lives take us in separate directions we still stay connected and I don't doubt that will change.

I love every single one of them and can't imagine life without one. That includes my brother in law too :)

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Day 21}

2011-11-21T00:56:00.001-06:00

"These are a few of my favorite things..."

Baking. One of my favorite places to be is in the kitchen. I love making messes and experimenting. I love making old recipes and attempting new ones. I am not an artsy person nor a musical person but the place where my creative juices start to flow is in the middle of mixing and making and baking.

Playing games. I think games can bring such happiness! I absolutely love playing any game... from cards to Settlers of Catan to Monopoly to charades to dominoes to (insert a game). I'm such a game person and I really don't know why much other than it is exciting and a fun way to interact with other people.

Personal Worship Time. In my personal worship time is where I really feel that God meets me right where I am. The other night I was home alone baking while listening to worship music. I have to take advantage of a quiet house to really get special alone time with God. It doesn't have to be a specific way or a specific place. God tends to meet me right where I am. Baking is a great place to do that. So while quietly worshipping and floating around the kitchen to mix up some Thanksgiving goodies I spent time talking to God and listening for His response. I felt so much strength infused into me after that night. It is amazing how impactful just small amounts of quiet time with the Lord can be.

These are just a few of my favorite things that I am thankful for that I have been able to experience this week. I love how the Lord cares about the small desires of our heart and wants to provide that for us.

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Day 20}

2011-11-20T21:18:00.002-06:00

Today I am thankful for friends coming to visit! We have so much fun with our friends from Tennessee and I love that they are spending the first part of their trip to Texas with us!

Lots of loud crazy games, loud laughter, and loud talking (did I mention loud?)! When we get together it is a blast! We all get along so well and I love that we can pick up right where we left off even after not seeing each other for so long. I'm praying that the time in between visits is not so long in the future!

Thank you for making our week wonderful, friends!

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Day 19}

2011-11-19T21:11:00.000-06:00

Today I am thankful for my parents. They have so much wisdom and care for us so much. Both work hard to provide for our family and continue to support us in all that we do.

They love us so very much and fight for us all the time. I love that my mom will pray with me and encourage me through hard situations in life. My dad protects me and loves without condition. He is a wonderful example of our Father and he is definitely someone I look up to.

My parents also know how to have fun! We have a silly, weird, crazy and loving family. Every single one of us are so very different and it makes life so much more interesting. You never know what you will find us entertaining ourselves with on any given night (Most recent is the milk carton game. Oh yes, very fun.). I love my parents and I am so thankful for them!

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Day 18}

2011-11-18T16:12:00.000-06:00

Friday proved to be an eventful day and I am thankful for the opportunities that God gave me today. Sometimes you don't understand why you are doing something yet you know you are supposed to. That is how I felt about this particular experience.

Thursday my siblings and friends were shopping around in Southlake. We stumbled into Delias to see if we could find some jeans and noticed a "now hiring" sign on the window. My friend and I decided we would apply to just see what came of it! I had no reason not to it felt like so we just turned in applications and were told to come back in for an interview.

Friday was the interview. I didn't feel peace about accepting the job but I really did have peace about going to the interview. I didn't understand that but I went anyways. A couple of hours later we both received a call telling us they wanted to talk to us about hiring us and our hours. I immediately knew I wasn't supposed to accept this job. It was about the experience...the opportunity. I had never had a professional interview for a job and was so glad that I experienced what that was like. It made me think harder about what this season is supposed to look like though. I thanked them for their time but apologized and told them this is not where I needed to be this winter because I could not be fully committed.

Although I didn't accept this job it did cause me to think about this season and provided a great experience! There are some exciting things God has coming up and I am excited about that!

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Day 17}

2011-11-17T16:08:00.000-06:00

Thursday was a good day. It was productive yet restful. My to do list was long and I was prepared to conquer it so I went up to Starbucks and spent a few hours just working on homework, studying for a test, taking care of emails, and finishing a few things on the computer.

I am grateful for those times at Starbucks where I can sip a hot peppermint mocha while focusing on what is right in front of me. It is refreshing and always makes my day a little bit better to know I have been productive :)

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Day 16}

2011-11-16T15:58:00.000-06:00

This beautiful day I am thankful for music! I love a variety of music but I am so thankful for the tone that worship music sets. It creates an atmosphere of peace and praise to our Father. Turning on worship music and soaking in God's presence can completely turn your day around.

I had one of my favorite worship songs on repeat for two days and I couldn't help but maintain an attitude of worship and feel the peace of God throughout those days. It is so true that the things we let into our "gates" (eyes and ears) effect us. After being in a crowd where secular music is playing I come away feeling kind of icky. It does not provide peace nor usher in the presence of God. Not only the words but the heart behind the music really does make a difference.

It is completely opposite when worship music plays.

I am so thankful for the ability to simply turn on a few worship songs when I begin feeling stressed or just need to take some time to be calm and restful. It uplifts me, brings rest, and rejuvenates my spirit. I love how the Lord allows us to express our praise to Him in that way and how He will meet us right where we are.

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Day 15}

2011-11-15T12:48:00.001-06:00

I cannot believe Thanksgiving is only a week away! These past couple of weeks have flown by amidst the busyness of tests, papers, homework, and just life in general. I am hoping this next week moves slower while we have our friends here from Tennessee :)

Well, on this 15th day of November I am thankful for the sunsets, sunrises, and the beautiful picture God paints for us in this sky. It amazes me how we miss so much of the beauty in God's creation because we just don't stop to realize what is around us.

I love sitting outside at night as the sun goes down and the various colors are stretched across the sky. God's artwork is magnificent. What I love most is that He paints a new picture every day for us to enjoy.

"God's glory is on tour in the skies..." Psalm 19:1

The sky really does display God's glory. Take time to enjoy the indescribable artwork in creation that God has made for us.

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Day 14}

2011-11-14T22:21:00.003-06:00

Today has been a college day. My mom and I have spent lots of time emailing and talking to admissions counselors, registrars, and deans from Ouachita. I am signing up for my last semester at TCC (exciting!) for the spring and have been trying to iron out transferrable classes along with what I actually need. Tomorrow I will be registered for the spring semester at TCC then after that and a couple of summer classes I will be headed to Ouachita. :)

Every person we have talked to today has been so helpful. They are wonderful at responding to emails and clearly answering your questions. I love their willingness to serve and it makes me happy that I will be a part of such a wonderful school!

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Day 13}

2011-11-13T20:56:00.000-06:00

Today I am so thankful for all the families I babysit for. It is a blessing to be able to spend time with little kids all the time and make money doing something I love.

Because of these families I have not had to get a "real" job or try to make money elsewhere. Sometimes I am not as busy with babysitting as I would like but other times I have more jobs than I know what to do with! It really has been great! After years of babysitting I have saved enough to buy a car (used I might add but with very little miles on it... it's a car!) and will be able to accept more babysitting jobs because having a car won't be an issue. I am looking forward to that! All of my short term savings might be drained but this is what I have been working for, right?

Anyways, this really is because of the blessing I have received from all the families for whom I watch their kids. I love them so much and am thankful for these many opportunities!

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Day 12}

2011-11-12T11:06:00.004-06:00

Today would be my Nana's 67th birthday. I guess it still is. Though she is celebrating in Heaven. It is probably the most glorious celebration. I am sure the day was filled with tea parties, Geraldine stories, laughter, Sonic drinks, spearmint gum, and all things Nana.

I only wish that everyone would have been fortunate enough to meet her. She is the grandmother everyone wished they could have. She cared more for others than anyone I know and always put them first. She knew Jesus. And Jesus knew her. He was first in her life. Than others. She understood what it meant to "love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, and soul" and "love others as I(Jesus) have loved you."

When I was just nine years old she passed away from a long hard fight against cancer. She is still my inspiration. Not one time did she complain while she was in this battle. She believed that God could heal her and did her best at being the best Nana through it all. She did a great job of that. I was only nine when she went to be with Jesus but I have buckets of memories of things we did together. I remember details. Anything from putt-putt to shopping or going to the movies. My Da, of course, was a part of that too. We had the best of times together.

One thing that she is most remembered for is her love for tea parties. Tea parties where we dress up. Tea parties under the dining room table (yes, she got under the table with us and loved it). Tea parties while talking very properly. There didn't have to be a reason to have a tea party. We just did. Sometimes we would eat yummy delicacies, sip hot tea, and get to hear a Geraldine story. She was famous for her Geraldine stories. (Geraldine is a cat by the way. A very sneaky cat who liked going to the grocery store and especially liked going to church). My Nana was creative. She always had a Geraldine story. We could even ask to hear the story "when Geraldine went to church" and she would relay it the exact same way she had before. Same details, same sweet tone in her voice, same expressions (especially when Geraldine got in trouble). See, she was the best Nana. I miss her dearly.

So today on this 12th day of November I am thankful for my Nana. She left a legacy. She inspired me even as a young girl. She inspires me still. I have so many fond memories of times spent with her and I find myself often thinking of what life would be like if she was still here. She would love my friends. She would love to come watch our shows at our theatre. She would still take us shopping and to the movies. Most of all, we would still have tea parties under the dining room table.

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Day 11}

2011-11-11T01:05:00.000-06:00

Did you recognize your freedom on this beautiful 11th day of the 11th month of the 11th year of this century? Did you remember those who have sacrificed their lives so that we could have freedom?

Our school had our first annual Veteran's Day service Friday at eleven in the morning. It was a beautiful site as boy scouts, who are also students from our school, proudly carried the flag across the yard, students read speeches, then everyone thanked veterans who humbly joined us so we could thank them for their service.

As I stood amidst this wonderful happening I remembered the ultimate sacrifice Jesus Christ made for us. We see and some know (I have an uncle who fought in Desert Storm and a cousin who is still enlisted) those who (have) fought/fight for our freedom. It is hard to let them go. Isn't it? They are taking a step into the unknown. They really our sacrificing their lives. What if they didn't though? Where would we be? It is a bit scary to think about.

You know what I think is worse? Thinking about life without the sacrifice of our Savior. There would be no life. But because of the hope we have in Him I can put on the armor of God and fight in this battle. I have a reason to fight. I can fight. I can live. I have freedom in God because Jesus laid down His life for us. For that I am thankful.

On the 11th day of the 11th month of the 11th year of this century I am thankful for the sacrifice of life by our soldiers but more importantly the sacrifice of our Savior.

P.S. Did you say a special prayer (or make a wish) at 11:11 on 11-11-11? :)

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Day 10}

2011-11-10T12:00:00.000-06:00

Some people might find this strange or not believe my sincerity but today I am so thankful for my school and the education I have been so blessed to receive. When I think about those who are not given the opportunity to learn it makes me even more grateful that I am. Even though I don't always enjoy all of my school or my homework God can use it all to teach me something. Education is important to me. There is so much that I gain from studying history, learning physics, and my english classes. I have learned a lot more about the history of our country this semester as I study American History, interesting (and applicable) things in Physics, and so much more than just writing in English.

English may be seen as a boring and tedious subject by some but I have a love for words. It is not my best subject and does not come easily yet I really enjoy it. I owe the love for writing to my wonderful teachers. Throughout middle school Mrs. Watson inspired creativity through her teaching and personal love for writing. Then in my eighth grade year I was so blessed when Mrs. Minter came to teach at our school. Not only did she love writing but she loved us. She truly cared and that made english all the more enjoyable. I had her through tenth grade and in those three years she taught us so much. I was sad when my classes with her ended but I felt well prepared for whatever God had next; and I was. In my junior year I took English Composition 1 and 2 and came out with A's in both classes. Now in my senior year of high school and taking World Literature (not the easiest class but bearable with the teaching I have previously received) I look back and remember the great times I had in those english classes with Mrs. Minter. How often is someone able to receive a quality education with caring and wise teachers?

I have learned not to take that for granted...especially as I encounter challenging professors in dual credit college classes. It helps me to realize the blessing I have had in my teachers and my school too. I love my school. It is so different than any school anywhere. Quality education. Inspiring teachers. Freedom to be yourself. I love that you never know what to expect when you arrive at CAIA. Sometimes there will be kids outside throwing the football or maybe having a deep discussion about the Lord or an important issue. Always, though, there are multiple kids making music. Talented kids. These kids know how to use their gifts to bless others... It might just be sitting in a circle outside the coffee shop or it may be performing onstage in our theatre in a show where a couple of hundred people just enjoy themselves and the talents other people have to share. Wherever it is, they bless people. They bless me. Teachers who I no longer take classes from but frequently stop to talk to me and catch up with my life bless me. One of my favorite teachers, Mrs. Bare, inspired my love for science. She plays a part in why I have decided to pursue an education in the medical field. She instilled a love for learning and science in me. She made it interesting. And she still stops to talk or hear what is going on. Mrs. Minter is the same way. I love it. The friends who love you for who you are and will gladly pray for you, be silly with you, or just be whatever you need in the moment bless me. I love that place. I am glad I have younger siblings who have some years left before graduation so I have a reason to go back and visit. Not that I need one other than the fact that I will just want to :)

The quality education I received from the teachers at my school has amazed me. I am beyond grateful and anytime I start to feel frustrated with school I remind myself of a verse that forever changed my perspective of school.

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for man."

Colossians 3:23

It makes it worth it because it is for Him.

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Day 9}

2011-11-09T22:35:00.004-06:00

This day I am so thankful for prayer and for a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. I love sharing my thoughts and my day with Jesus. I love that I can share anything with Him and hear His response. I am thankful for the voice of the Lord that speaks to me.

"My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me." - John 10:27

It is easy to "get caught up" in the business of our days and to ignore His voice speaking to us. When we are willing to listen and open our ears to hear He will be there speaking to us. He never stops speaking. We just stop listening. We tune Him out and tune the world in. How would you like for Jesus to "know" you though? Because He does. He says that we hear his voice and He knows us. It makes my heart happy to know that Jesus knows me. In the Greek "to know" means "to feel or understand." He feels what we feel. He understands us. He understands us better than anyone else. Our Father knows us and wants us to know Him.

"It is the glory of God to conceal a matter; to search out a matter is the glory of kings."

- Proverbs 25:2

He has many mysteries for us to seek out so that we will know Him better... so that we will discover Him. Will we tune into what He has to say? I want to know Him better and hear what He has to say to me. I'm thankful that He does speak to me and that He hears me when I call upon Him.

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Day 8}

2011-11-08T21:55:00.001-06:00

"A cheerful heart is good medicine..."

Proverbs 17:22

Can you imagine life without laughter? I can't. Many of my days are filled with smiles and laughter from all the sweet children I watch to my silly siblings who know how to make me laugh (especially when I don't want to)! :) On this 8th day of November I find reasons to laugh and I am thankful for that.

Laughter makes life lighter and more enjoyable.

I relate to Elizabeth Bennet when she says, "I dearly love a laugh... I hope I never ridicule what is wise or good. Follies and nonsense, whims and inconsistencies do divert me, I own, and I laugh at them whenever I can."

I do love to laugh. Laugh today. And tomorrow. And every day after that.

"A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance."

Proverbs 15:13

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Day 7}

2011-11-07T21:44:00.000-06:00

On Day 7 (and every other day of my life) I am thankful for the friendships God has placed in my life. There are special people He has put right in my path that have majorly impacted me. God brings people to me that are like minded and who encourage me in my walk with Christ. Like minded... Hard to find sometimes but cherished when discovered.

I cherish my friendships. I love the people I live life with who love Jesus and challenge me to be all that I am made to be.

"Friends come and friends go, but a true friend sticks by you like family."

-Proverbs 18:24

I am so blessed by friends who will stick by me through anything and are willing to talk or pray even until late hours of the night. I love my friends and am extra thankful for them today.

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Day 6}

2011-11-06T17:10:00.000-06:00

As I wrote "Day 6" I found myself so shocked about how quickly Thanksgiving was coming. 18 more days! The excitement is building :)

Today I am thankful for theatre. It is a huge blessing to be able to spend so much time with friends while preparing a show that will bring joy to so many people. Theatre is an outlet to express the personality of someone else, build character, find new friends and go deeper with the old.

While I love being onstage, I find the greatest excitement in working behind the scenes. I have been a part of so many shows in which I performed and I love it! Stage managing and being a part of the crew though is so much more fulfilling for me.

This week at school we had auditions for Hello, Dolly! I am stage manager so I get to help judge the auditioners and be a part of the decision making for the casting (of course Mrs. Anicia always has the final say :)) Thursday we have callbacks and the following week rehearsals will commence. I performed in Pride and Prejudice in April but that is the last show I have been a part of. It has been even longer since I stage managed. I am looking forward to this season of theatre and am so grateful I have this opportunity!

Come see the show when it is performed in February!

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Days 4 and 5}

2011-11-05T10:45:00.002-05:00

The past couple of days have kind of been a blur and I am having to convince myself that it is still the weekend. It is actually nice, and abnormal, to feel like the weekend has lasted forever! The recent events have prohibited sleep but adrenaline has kept me going.

Starting Thursday I was at the hospital with a friend who was having a baby. We were with her until Friday night when she brought her sweet miracle into this world. After 29 hours of labor she was exhausted yet so in love with her baby. It was so precious to watch my friends hold their little girl with such thankfulness. Brooklynn Elizabeth is a beautiful and healthy baby girl who is abundantly loved. Newborns are my favorite. They are perfect. She is so tiny and it is a blessing to be able to hold this little miracle in my arms. I am so happy for my friends and excited for the plans God has for them.

On this Friday I was thankful for the miracle of life (and continue to be). The new beginning of life and the birth of a baby is amazing to witness. I love the whole process from finding out she was having a baby to now and the future with this precious baby girl. Babies bring me so much joy and I am so thankful to be a part of the lives of so many.

In a way my "Day 4 Thankfulness" brings me to my "Day 5 Thankfulness". Today is my lovely friend's, Bethany, 16th birthday. Her life is a blessing to me. It is amazing how God knows not only what you need but who you need and when. This friendship blesses me more every day. She is the friend who can encourage you when you need it. She will laugh with you and cry with you. She inspires me in my walk with the Lord and I love living life with her. Happy birthday, Bethany. Thank you for being you and allowing me to be. I love you!

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Day 3}

2011-11-03T23:02:00.000-05:00

"For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword."

Hebrews 4:12

Today I am thankful for the Word of God. His words, commands, and love poured through the Bible never return void. I can dive into the scripture and come back up refreshed and renewed. It is our sword with which we fight against the principalities of darkness and evil (Ephesians 6:12,17).

This afternoon God gently reminded me of one of my life verses (Romans 8:28) and it simply lightened my mood and brought joy to my day. God loves to do that for us.

Remember that His Word is your weapon. Study it. If we are reading the Bible and soaking in His truth then we will be able to fight. We gain strength in Him when we know His Word. Be thankful for the blessing we have in the Bible. Take advantage of the gift it is. Learn something new from it every day and allow God to open your heart to what He is saying through it. It is incredible what God can speak to us through the Bible when we take the time to listen.

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Day 2}

2011-11-02T23:52:00.003-05:00

Today I am grateful for the change in seasons. This chillier weather is magnificent and makes the day a little brighter. When the temperatures start dropping everyone knows the holidays are right around the corner and it puts a little bounce in their step. I've noticed :)

Tonight I was at a long time friend's birthday party and it was cold enough outside to have the fire going inside. We enjoyed each others company sitting by the warm fire while the wind was having a party outside. Another reason I love this time of year... the weather!

Is anyone else enjoying this beautiful weather?

{24 Days of Thanksgiving=Day 1}

2011-11-01T23:57:00.005-05:00

Family. I am thankful for my family. I am so blessed by each one of them. They all have brought me an abundance of joy and we have grown so much together.

Family time is special. Each member of our family is special. We love being together. We all love adventures and with six of us kids (now) you never know what to expect. It's fun. It's silly. I love it. I am blessed and so very thankful.

This just makes me smile because it reminds me of my family. We are far from normal. Talk to one of us for a while and you will find that out. We all love Jesus though and love each other. That's what matters, right?

Be thankful for your family today :)

It's The Season of Thanksgiving

2011-11-01T23:34:00.004-05:00

Thanksgiving is my absolute favorite holiday. I love everything about it; from the history to the pumpkin pies. Thanksgiving is a reminder of new beginnings. The Pilgrims settling at Plymouth Rock represents them finding a new way of life where they could freely practice their faith. When they celebrated with a feast they were celebrating the new life they had found.

Also, November is generally a relaxed time of year. It is before the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping and festivities. It's still fall. We wear boots and scarves and take lots of pictures. There is plenty of time for baking, game playing, and football watching. Thanksgiving is just purely enjoyable.

Because Thanksgiving is to be celebrated with thankfulness I am going to post one thing I am thankful for each day up until Thanksgiving. Thankfulness is a good habit to form all year round. God says in His Word multiple times to be thankful always.

Around this time of year I am just extra thankful :)

Try making a list of the things you are thankful for... maybe share them with your family, your friends, or the people you work with. When you focus on what you have to be thankful for your perspective on life is more positive and can positively influence those around you. There is always something we can be thankful for even if that something is as simple as the air that we breathe.

Called Out

2011-10-21T17:13:00.003-05:00

I have been praying for opportunities for God to use me and an AMAZING opportunity has come about.

It has been an exciting season as God opens doors for me to minister to and love people. After the youth conference this summer, where we saw God work in wondrous ways, we believed that God had more. We knew that greater things were still yet to come. Ever since then I have been in prayer for what God has. Today we received a call from a close friend who shared an opportunity that is an answer to prayer for me.

I have been invited to go on a trip to Moldova, the hub of human trafficking in Eastern Europe, in January of 2012 with Your Kingdom Come Ministries and a small team to lead conferences, share messages about human trafficking, bless the people in the villages and love the children in the orphanages. We will be able to share with girls my age the value of beauty and who they are in Christ. Throughout the trip we will be meeting in small groups with these women and girls which we will bring together into two main conferences. One conference will be held in the North of Moldova. The other conference is a break through conference because they are just now allowing us into the South to minister and share with the people there.

My heart is for people. I desire to see them touched and transformed by the love of God. I want to see people’s lives changed and I want to be a part of that. God has shown me how to love the people that are right in front of me. He has shown me that what may seem little to me can make a big difference. I am so blessed to have this opportunity now to go out into the world and share His love with those who are broken, hurting, and lost.

The financial side of it looks big to me but it is nothing for my God. We received the call today (Friday) and I have three days to turn in $1200 (by Monday, October 24). The last $650 will be due at the beginning of December. I accepted this opportunity in faith because I know my God will provide. I am reminded of the verse in Romans 8 that says, “If our God is for us, who can be against us?” He is in this trip and He is the reason that I will be able to go and love on the people there.

Please be in prayer for me, the rest of the team, and the ministry. Pray for God’s protection on the trip and open hearts in all of the people there.

This really is an answer to prayer. My excitement for this opportunity and sense of God’s goodness continue to overwhelm me. God has indescribable plans and I am excited to witness it.

“The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon Me, because the LORD has anointed Me to preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound.” - Isaiah 61:1

Worry

2011-10-13T10:00:00.001-05:00

Worry. It is so easy to do. That natural tendency of an earthly minded person is to worry about everything. What am I going to do about this? How am I going to get all of this done? What is going to happen if...? We are trying to figure it all out. By worrying we take the authority out of God's hands and place control in ours. His Word says "to be anxious in nothing but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." We have to be willing to let go of control and place everything in God's hands. All of your worries will then be replaced with peace.

When we change to a Kingdom mindset our perspective starts to change and our lives are transformed.

But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.

Matthew 6:33-34

Jesus told us to seek first the Kingdom. Focus on God. Seek His righteousness. Then all these things will be added to you. What are all these things? In the previous verses Jesus talks about our food and our clothing and says "do not worry about your life." Our life. God will give us everything we need for life. Keep your focus on Him.

It does us no good to worry.

Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life?

Luke 12:25

Our lives don't improve. Our circumstances don't get better. Worry doesn't help anything. It will take a change in perspective but when we learn to focus on God and not our circumstances life will be so much richer.

That's How the Lost Get Found

2011-10-04T19:56:00.001-05:00

"Why do we go with the flow
Or take an easier road?
Why are we playin' it safe?
Love came to show us the way
Love is a chance we should take

So when you get the chance
Are you gonna take it?
There's a really big world at your fingertips
And you know you have the chance to change it"

(The Lost Get Found excerpt - Britt Nicole)

Scholarships!

2011-09-19T17:05:00.002-05:00

Hey friends! I joined a site called "fastweb" that gives you opportunities to receive college scholarships through essays, applications, drawings, etc. There is an opportunity right now for a scholarship through a drawing. For each person who registers for Fastweb via my personal referral link, I will earn one entry into September's drawing.

If you are interested in earning scholarships for college sign up for fastweb though my personal link below:
http://www.fastweb.com/referral/hannahcarrigan

Thank you!

"You have been accepted..."

2011-09-15T10:00:00.003-05:00

Those few words have never brought me so much excitement as they did this morning! I feel so much peace as I walk out God's plan for my life and know that He is directing every step.

I opened up a letter this morning that began, "Dear Hannah, Congratulations on your acceptance to Ouachita Baptist University!" I think I screamed. Or shouted for joy. Or jumped out of my chair. Actually, I think it was all three!

I have talked about OBU like I would be there next year. All along though something didn't feel complete. Until now. There are many forms to fill out, visits to be had, and just stuff to be done but it feels official.

I truly feel like I am standing on the edge of everything. God has so much more to come and He is continuing to reveal what that looks like. It won't be easy all the time and there will be bumps because we weren't promised easy. Just that He would never leave us or forsake us. So I step into this exciting time of life with an undefined expectancy and a trust in God that every step of the way He will be there to guide me.

I am so excited.

8.28.11. A Special Sunset For A Special Day.

2011-09-12T18:37:00.003-05:00

He painted a perfect sunset for me. The kind of clouds that you can barely see but stretch across the sky in a haze. Then those clouds that seem to form mountains far off in the distance. Behind me the sky is perfectly blue with puffy white clouds dancing around each other. And right in front of me His glory is displayed. A stream of pinks meets a lining of clouds and forms the sunset. The sunset on my birthday. His faithfulness endures forever. He is my rock and my shelterHe is my shepherd and I shall never want. I will walk through the valley of the shadow of the death and I will fear no evil for my God is with me. He is my strong fortress. The sunset is now a beautiful mix of yellows, oranges and pinks and I gaze in awe of His majesty. I am overwhelmed by His Love.

Life As A Senior

2011-08-18T18:33:00.003-05:00

Where do I begin? A question I have asked myself a lot recently when people inquired after my life's adventures.

School. It is that time of year again. This year starting school carried a bit more excitement, mystery, and curiousness though. Monday was my last first day of school in high school. Next time I say "My first day of school is..." I will be treading on new grounds. For now though I am enjoying my senior year. My 12th grade year. My last year of high school. It is sad to think I will no longer be taking CAIA classes. My big and only adventure this year there is Physics. I was a little apprehensive beforehand but I enjoyed our first class. I am also taking three classes through TCC (two online and one on campus). Other than senior stuff and finishing a couple courses at home that is all my school encompasses. It is extremely light compared to my previous high school years but it leaves room for...

College Planning. I feel so proud yet old when I discuss college. It came so soon. I applied to Ouachita Baptist University a couple of weeks ago and am still in the application process (sending SAT scores, transcripts, etc.). I really believe that is where God has led me and is sending me next year. I still have questions unanswered but God tends to teach me patience through these big life decisions. Maybe I will know what my major is by the time I get there :) I get excited every time I receive a letter in the mail or talk to my admissions counselor. Everything about it is so God. I am thrilled for this next journey.

...and...

Working. I am not exactly sure what that looks like right now. I was offered a nanny job that just didn't work out but am still very interested in a part time nanny job. There are other options that I might could look into but nannying sounds the most exciting to me :)

Well, my life has been full of adventure. I like it. My Father has fulfilled many promises and reached down into my heart and made me alive. He is revealing my heart to me. I am enjoying the journey and truly learning that God knows my heart way better than I do. It is fun for Him to show it to me. He does it all in His perfect timing too. I am grateful for His timing even when I become impatient because in the end I know it will all be worth it. He is worth it all.

A Dream Come True

2011-08-10T21:44:00.006-05:00

"But you are the ones chosen by God, chosen for the high calling of priestly work, chosen to be a holy people, God's instruments to do his work and speak out for him, to tell others of the night-and-day difference he made for you—from nothing to something, from rejected to accepted."

1 Peter 2:9-10

We are a chosen generation. God has special plans for us. He has placed dreams in our hearts and specific assignments in our paths that He trusts will be carried out because of the faith we have in Him to use us for something greater. One of my favorite quotes that sums it up most perfectly says, "We're too young to realize certain things are impossible. Which is why we will do them anyway." - William Pitt (Amazing Grace)

Out of that faith God birthed Passion: For Youth by Youth. He placed ideas, dreams, hopes, and visions inside of us and led us to hold the Passion: For Youth by Youth Conference. It is the beginning of many big things God is doing with us. I am beyond grateful for the part I play in God's perfect plan.

"Get the word out. Teach all these things. And don't let anyone put you down because you're young. Teach believers with your life: by word, by demeanor, by love, by faith, by integrity."

1 Timothy 4:11-12

Visit the website (foryouthbyyouth,wordpress.com) to read more about our story, hear what God is doing, and get more information. You can register for the conference by emailing passionfyby@yahoo.com.

On My Heart

2011-07-21T22:58:00.003-05:00

This song, these words, connect with my heart so much. It's a wonderful song but it is so much more than that. It's what my heart cries out; what my heart sings. I tried to bold the parts that stick out to me but I couldn't. I would have bolded every, single word. So I did.

It's encouraging as I begin my search for colleges, what I will study, what I will do. My future. I'm in search of my future. God knows. He holds my future in His hands and all of me I give to Him.

Use me for You. Reveal Your plan. But in Your perfect timing. I lay me down. Because all I want is more of You. However that looks.

I speak all those words to God in complete surrender and heart abandoned. It's hard because I want to know. But easy because I know His plan is perfect. Even when I don't know what that looks like.

//Invading all my weakness
You wrapped me up in grace
The worst of me succeeded by the best of You

My heart is overtaken
My soul is overwhelmed
The worst of me succeeded by the best of You

My dreams have found their purpose
My future in Your hands
This life would have no meaning if it weren't for You

So I lay me down
For Kingdom come
Steal all that is within me
Cause all I want in this world is more of You

And the less of me it is You
Increasing as I fade away
Your light for all the world to see
God It is You who breaks the chains
It is You who lights the way
And everything I am cries out for You

Lord make my life transparent
Your life in mine displayed
And let every earthly glory
Go back to You//

(You, Hillsong Live)

Words

2011-07-19T14:55:00.005-05:00

Has someone ever said something to you that really meant a lot? It really impacted you? Maybe it wasn't in a good way. Maybe it made your day. Words have the tendency to create; create feelings, opinions, thoughts, motivation. Just a few words from someone could really change a lot. I like words. Words can create pictures, inspire ideas, and stir up passion.

Especially words from a book.

I like books.

My favorite type of books have come to be non fiction Christian books. There are plenty of repetitive, boring, dry Christian books. I've picked up a few, tried to keep reading because I don't like to stop something I have started, then realized I was wasting my time. Then there have been those books that cause me to think... think past my little box... think outside of who I am and what I have experienced. The words that spring from those pages are inspiring. They inspire me to be who I was made to be, do what I was called to do, and live how God wants me to live.

So what books are those? Well, these are just a few...

Strengthen Yourself In the Lord - Bill Johnson. It has been a while since I read this one but I just like Bill Johnson. He has lots of books that I have heard are very good!
Captivating - John and Stasi Eldredge. I encourage every girl, woman, mom, female, and even those guys who are interested enough about God's calling for a woman to read it. They forget the rules, the limitations, and the "this is how you have to do it" and share the freedom we have to just be. Be who God has created us to be. It is encouraging, motivating, inspiring, and the list of positive adjectives could keep going. I received so much from this book and actually plan to read it again very soon (and I normally don't read books twice).
Crazy Love - Francis Chan. Eye-opening. Awakening. Thought-provoking. = This book described in just a few words. It opens your eyes to the crazy love God has for us and encourages you to not take it for granted but live your life for the One who gives you breath each and every day.
The Purple Pig and Other Miracles - Dick Eastman. I'm sure there are a few of you thinking "What in the world? The purple pig?" Yes. The purple pig. This is actually the book I am in the middle of right now. For a teenager who longs to see God's Kingdom come to earth and His will be done in her life this book is perfect. I had a special friend recommend it and allow me to borrow it. Perfect timing. With everything God is doing in my life this book is so encouraging.
I have a few other books that are on the list: Windows of the Soul - Ken Gire. One Thousand Gifts - Ann Voskamp. Listening Is an Act of Love - Dave Isay. Tuesdays with Morrie - Mitch Albom. Fresh Brewed Life - Nicole Johnson. Wild at Heart - John Eldredge. Other John Eldredge books. And C.S. Lewis. Yes, I have a long list. And yes, I have even more I could add!

I like words a lot. They have motivated me. These books have impacted me and God has used them to work in my life. I encourage you to read. Read the Bible (the best words) and read other Christian books. They are full of stories and inspiration.

If you have any recommendations for good books, please share! I always like to hear what other people are reading! Or if you have read any books on my list and have anything to add or say, I would love to hear that too :)

I'll be back to again to share about what I thought of my next few books!

He Speaks Through Creation

2011-07-12T18:52:00.002-05:00

//I can see the clouds are
moving faster now
and the sun is breaking through
If you can hold on, to the one that's holding you
there is nothing that can
stop this crazy love
from breaking through//

(Hold on, Toby Mac)

Be Used

2011-07-02T02:34:00.001-05:00

Remember, God is going to use someone. That someone could be you. Don't let an opportunity pass by you.

it's about the journey

2011-07-02T02:26:00.001-05:00

"Happiness is not a station you arrive at, but a manner of traveling."

Forever Reign

2011-07-02T02:02:00.003-05:00

"The joy of God is your Strength."

Nehemiah 8:10

Nothing else. So I can always have strength.

"In Your presence there is fullness of joy."

Psalm 16:11

Get in His presence, feel His joy, and you will be strengthened.

It's a promise.

I can always have joy. Always.

Even when there is nothing good in me and my circumstances seem dim, He is good and He is still on the throne. He never changes based on my circumstances - why should I?

His strength is mine.

He is my source of life and joy.

And if He is my life source for all these things, I will always have them because He always does.

God started teaching this to me at camp through these two songs:

Rain Down:

My heart is dry, but still I'm singing!

Forever Reign:

You are joy, You are joy. You're the reason that I sing.

I didn't understand how I could still sing when I felt so dry, but I did. Then God continued to speak and revealed me to the reason that I sing. It has nothing to do with me or what I am feeling. It's all about Him and He always deserves to be praised. Therefore I can always sing. I can always be full of joy. Because He is the reason that I sing. And He is joy.

Stop Trying So Hard

2011-07-02T01:40:00.004-05:00

That's what God was trying to tell me.

"Stop trying so hard and just be."

I found myself overwhelmed, frustrated, and confused after a few weeks of trying to figure out what God wanted me to do...what He wanted my life to look like... and what people I was supposed to be in relationship with.

Yet I don't ever remember reading in God's word a step by step plan for our life...what exactly we were supposed to do. I'm pretty sure He gave us free choice for a reason. He is not looking for robots, just relationships.

Galatians 5:13-14

"For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. ¹⁴ For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

He made us free. And He made us to love Him and to love others.

He didn't make us free so that we would live selfish, sinful lives. He made us free because He loved (loves) us just that much.

He lays out choices before us and says, "choose one, I'll bless it." Don't be afraid to make a choice because you're afraid of making a mistake. It's better to trust God, take a step of faith, and make a mistake because God's grace is sufficient and if you are letting God take control, He is responsible for the outcome (and I promise it will be a good one). But! If you are trying to make things work out in your strength, you are responsible for the outcome... and it will be messy.

So just try. Step out in faith and live for Him. Seek God with all of your heart and dive in. Don't stress over unnecessary things. It's not worth it. I've experienced it. But God broke past my box of thinking and once again amazed me with His revelation, love, and perfect timing. He has taught be how to just "be." I am learning how to be who He has created me to be... who He has called me to be... without being in control and without stressing/being nervous/anxious about every little step I am supposed to take.

Proverbs 16:9

A man’s heart plans his way,
But the LORD directs his steps.

A Heart of Worship

2011-06-18T01:34:00.003-05:00

What does it mean to have a heart of worship? How do we live with our hearts in that place? Worship is not something you have to do but something that becomes a part of you. Worship is not defined by songs sung in church on Sunday mornings. Worship is a way of living. It's a way of living where nothing is about you but all is about Him.

(Parts of Heart of Worship)

When the music fades
all is stripped away
and I simply come
longing just to bring
something that's of worth
that will bless your heart

I’ll bring you more than a song
for a song in itself
is not what you have required
you search much deeper within
through the way things appear
you're looking into my heart

I'm coming back to the heart of worship
and it's all about you
It's all about you, Jesus
I'm sorry Lord for the things I’ve made it
when it's all about you
it's all about you, Jesus

These words remind me of what my life is truly about. It's not the "song in itself" but the heart. That is where He looks. We have made worship into so many other things than the simpleness it is made to be. When we come back to the heart of worship we come back to our purpose in life ... To live all about Him.

An Eternal Perspective

2011-05-15T13:54:00.003-05:00

We encounter many things that cause us to change the way we look at life. They challenge our perception of people, problems and situations.

It is easy to slip into a self pity mentality. I can subconsciously begin to list why I have it hard or why I don't have enough. Then I look at other people and realize how blessed I am. My problems and situations in comparison to their problems and situations seem so little. It's all about perspective.

I have had many encounters that have challenged my view of life in general. Then one day I had an encounter that gave me a completely new outlook on life. It shook my world and made me think about what really mattered.

Why are we here? When we pass away from earth where are we going? Is this (insert anything here) eternal? These may (or may not) seem like obvious questions but if we really lived with those questions in mind, I really believe we would act, talk, respond and live so much differently.

I know this may sound so simple but this is a situation I daily dealt with that I had to completely rethink...I share a room with my most amazing younger sister. We are complete opposites (I think God might be preparing me for marriage). Anyways, when I prefer for the room to be clean, she is perfectly fine with her "stuff" being strewn across the room (floor, dresser, bed, etc.). If I am sitting quietly reading a book, she is in her own world playing guitar and writing music. At one point I did not think she was the most amazing younger sister. I was easily irritated and annoyed with her disrespecting me (in reality I was the one not being respectful of her personality).

After years of being forced to share a room and sincerely asking God to renew my sister and I's relationship, I began to realize what mattered. In the long run, is it going to matter that my room was perfectly clean, or that I really cared for her and showed her that through having grace and ALWAYS choosing to love her?

Although my sister and I played together as little kids and enjoyed doing that, we did not choose to love when it was hard. God worked so much in our hearts, but we were willing and wanting. We still share a room and still get frustrated with each other but we understand each other more and continually ask God for grace. The relationship she and I have now is not something I would trade for anything. We talk about everything. We share the same friends. And we do most things together. She is so very special and I admire her for her carefree, easy-going, love-life yet passionate character.

This is what God used to teach me perspective. When I walk into my recently cleaned room to find a mess, He just has to ask me the question, "Is this eternal?" It has not changed the fact that I prefer my stuff to be organized and clean, but I have loosened up so much. It is not worth getting upset about or ruining a relationship.

This pertains to multiple situations in life. Everyday I have to ask myself "Is this eternal?" After answering that question , my whole view is changed. God has worked in my heart so much and taught me how to just love Him and love others.

I make mistakes, but God's grace still abounds. So next time something starts to irritate you, ask yourself "Is this eternal?" God will show the best way to handle it.

Luke 21:33

"Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away."

The Importance of Trials

2011-05-11T14:27:00.002-05:00

The past few months have been so full of trials. Along with those trials, growth has come. Life has been overwhelming at times but the joy of the Lord has truly been my strength. At first I was confused. I didn't understand why things were happening. I didn't get why I was having to go through the pain. It didn't make sense. God quickly began revealing Himself to me and showing me the importance of the trials.

Ephesians 6:12
"For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places."

We're in a constant battle. Our war is not in the physical. Any conflict or struggle is a fight in the spiritual. Our lives are a battle for the Kingdom of God. But we don't have to do the fight on our own. God is the ultimate Warrior and will carry us through every storm.

2 Corinthians 12:9-10
“'My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong."

In our weakness, He is made strong. Even when we can't take one more blow, He is right there to help us pick up our sword and continue to fight. And in the end the trial is going to be so worth it.

James 1:2-4
"My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing."

God has been teaching me to count it all joy in each trial and every season of my life. Even when I am faced with tribulation I am able to be full of joy and complete peace.

John 16:33
"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

And this is a song that reflects the cries of my heart from this past season.

B
lessings by Laura Story
We pray for blessings
We pray for peace
Comfort for family, protection while we sleep
We pray for healing, for prosperity
We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering
All the while, You hear each spoken need
Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things

Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

We pray for wisdom
Your voice to hear
And we cry in anger when we cannot feel You near
We doubt Your goodness, we doubt Your love
As if every promise from Your Word is not enough
All the while, You hear each desperate plea
And long that we'd have faith to believe

Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
And what if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

When friends betray us
When darkness seems to win
We know the pain reminds this heart
That this is not, this is not our home

Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
And what if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
What if my greatest disappointments
Or the aching of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy
And what if trials of this life
The rain, the storms, the hardest nights
Are Your mercies in disguise

So this has pretty much been my life along with what God has used to encourage me in the past few months. It's been a trial, but it's been good. God is faithful.

From the Inside Out

2011-05-11T13:45:00.002-05:00

I am called to act differently and to look different than the world. I am called to be set apart.

Romans 12:1-2

"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."

Life is not about me. My life is about making God famous. If I am concerned with my happiness and what others think of me, I am missing God's calling for my life. It shouldn't matter what I wear, how my hair looks, or my outside appearance. My focus should be to get closer to Him and learn more about my Savior.

1 Peter 3:3-4

"Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel - rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God."

My desire is to be so in love with my Jesus that my life reflects Him. I want my beauty to be from the inside out. Although this is so important for everyone, girls especially need to recognize that their true beauty can only be inner. It's all about the heart.

Matthew 12:34

"For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks."

He has called us to be a light in this dark world and impact others each day. We have to do that by allowing God to continuously refine our hearts. Then share with the people around us God's goodness.

Psalm 96:2

"Sing to the Lord; praise his name.

Each day proclaim the good news that he saves."

This is a simple yet crucial mandate. Every day we have to seek His heart and His will so that we can walk in His fullness and in doing so change the lives of others.

You've already died, so you are FREE.

2011-04-03T14:53:00.003-05:00

‎"Bullets don't scare you. Mediocrity scares you.
Losing your life doesn't scare you. Wasting it does."
-Dutch Sheets

I dont know how to make the video fit, so here is the link

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXo0cEWw8zg.

It is so worth the two minutes.

Prom 2011 :)

2011-04-03T14:52:00.003-05:00

My friends and I at prom :)

John, Amanda, Trent, and I.

The "bodyguard" picture.

We were drinking 7-Up. I promise =)

The tons of people who all went in the limo together!

This was my first year to go to prom and it was much different than I had thought my first prom would be like. I figured I would be going with a bunch of friends to home school prom, but it turns out I went with a long time family friend, Trent, to his public school prom. I knew just a few people, met a lot of new people, and enjoyed the different scenery than I am used to =)

Spring Break: Day 8

2011-04-03T14:13:00.002-05:00

The Zoo!

I have not been to the zoo in a long time! Sunday before school started back I went with Trent, John, and his sister's family to the zoo then on a mini train ride. It was a great way to end a fun week!

The animals are not only fun to look at but show God's amazing creativity and design. Every creature was uniquely created.

Matthew 6:26

Look at the birds, free and unfettered, not tied down to a job description, careless in the care of God. And you count far more to him than birds.

Such a good reminder!

Spring Break: Day 7

2011-03-23T09:41:00.005-05:00

What did I do Saturday? It was such a full, busy week that I have to go over each day to remember what happened the next.

Oh yeah! Portia, Lexi, and Abby spent the night Friday night. Then we all went to Sonic to do a fundraiser for camp with a group of our other friends on Saturday. We have gathered over 30 of our friends to go to camp with us this year! It is so exciting to see God work in all of their lives, and I know God still has a lot more in store for this year.

The fundraiser was successful and we have two more scheduled...April 2 and May 14. So come support the youth on these next two Saturdays we are working!

2000 Central Drive, Bedford, TX 76021. :)

Saturday night after the fundraiser we relaxed at the Schuldts. I almost fell asleep after our long day at Sonic but we did get in a couple of random pool games and watched How To Train Your Dragon. =)

Spring Break: Day 6

2011-03-23T09:36:00.002-05:00

Friday...well I babysat...for 8 hours. It was a long day, but at least I had a super sweet little 7 month old that I got to hold a lot.

After my weekly babysitting job, I had to go to practice for Pride and Prejudice. None of that changed over spring break.

Friday night a bunch of friends came over to our house. It was actually a relaxing night. We spent a lot of time outside at the park, a few of us played a card game, and lot of time just talked. We do that last one a lot...

I hope you had a wonderful Friday!

Spring Break: Day 5

2011-03-23T09:30:00.002-05:00

Thursday of spring break Ash and I went to our "Awesome Eight" party. (6 friends, Ash, and I all try to plan a girl's night every once in a while) We spent the night talking, eating, talking some more, playing games.. then stayed up way too late.

A little adventure happened that night, but that is about all the detail I can give.

We had a lot of fun, and even though I had to go to an 8 hour babysitting job on 4 hours of sleep, it was worth it. =)

Spring Break: Days Three and Four

2011-03-17T14:29:00.003-05:00

The last couple of days Ash, Ethan and I spent at the Tates. Now that they are in public school and we all have extremely busy lives we do not get to hang out as often. This week we took advantage of the break from school and spent a couple of days out there. One of our other friends, John, is here for a couple weeks staying with them so we were all able to spend some time together. It had been too long!

We always have something to do there wether it be jumping on the trampoline, playing games, dew pong, or practicing dancing (for prom). It's always nice to stay with the Tates for a couple of days...they're my family that I do not see often enough.

We stayed up until 5 am on Tuesday night/Wednesday morning just talking. We were dissecting different parts of the Bible and sharing what we got out of it. There was a long discussion about the end times...which always proves to be a thought provoking topic. I am so blessed to have friends that have a spiritual depth that challenges me. I am always up for a good conversation about God.

That is pretty much what has filled the past couple of days...I took a few pictures while we were there but I left my camera. :( Any pictures from this week will probably be up on Facebook eventually!

I hope you're having a splendid week!

Spring Break: Day Two

2011-03-15T10:45:00.004-05:00

The day started out with some time with God, then a nice cinnamon toast breakfast.

After a couple of relaxing hours, we met a bunch of friends at the movies and saw Tangled (I think it is a very cute movie). Then we all went to the park to play Nuke 'em (A twisted game of volleyball). It was a ton of fun and a nice start to a wonderful week.

Last night we had a yummy dinner, I cleaned while listening to a great playlist, then played another game of Monopoly Deal with the siblings. The day ended with a good conversation with a friend, reading John Piper's "Don't Waste Your Life", and quiet time with God.

Spring Break: Night One

2011-03-14T13:15:00.006-05:00

Spring break is here, and we are going to fully enjoy every moment. Last night the fun began. =)

Monopoly Deal

Oh the theatre, the theatre!

2011-02-25T09:37:00.004-06:00

Wizard of Oz has come to an end. I have learned and grown so much through this production and it has been incredible to watch God work through each and every one of us.

After a week of ice/snow that canceled all of our rehearsals and caused us to postpone performances for a week, we were all a little out of our roles. God used that time though as a refreshing and restful week. A few of the cast members were sick and He healed them.

One afternoon before a performance one thing after another went wrong. 1) Miranda (who played Dorothy) was sick. 2) The dog playing Toto was hurt and we were told he was not coming 3) One of our makeup artists hurt her back and could not come 4) Everyone was fighting for energy and excitement for the show.

There were about 10 of us who are in the show sitting in the coffee shop, so Lexi pulled us together and asked if we would all just pray. We asked for healing, peace, and that He would work everything out for this show. It was an incredible and unifying time for all of us.

Mark 11:24

"Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours."

We believed that God would answer our prayers and guess what? He did. Within the next hour we got a call from the family who is letting us use the dog and were told he was able to come, a friend of ours was able to come help out with makeup in replacement of our other makeup artist, I got a text from Portia (who had no clue what was going on) with all these verses that related to everything we had prayed about, and Miranda told us that she was feeling so much better! God answers prayers.

That is not the only day of miracles for us during this performance. After the last performance, we always feast at CAIA. Well the eating and festivities were coming to an end and the some of the kids (all my friends in the show-everyone) had gathered outside in the field. I walked out of the annex and there they were worshipping and crying out to God. I quickly joined the worship circle and was overwhelmed with God's love. He worked in every single person's heart during this show and I was blessed to be a part of it.

I love what God can do even in theatre and that is one of the reasons I do it.

Passion

2011-01-22T14:19:00.004-06:00

I have shared this at worship night, but I have been wanting to express it in writing here too.

Passion is such an important part of who we are. We all have it deep within us. We just need to let it come out. During one of my late night talks with God I felt Him stirring in me the importance of passion. Without passion, life is dull and pointless. We have nothing to live for and no motivation to live for something significant.

Generally, when you are passionate about something you spend a lot of time thinking about it or doing something about it. For instance, someone who loves (or is passionate about) music will practice constantly and even be thinking about songs they can write/new music to learn as they go throughout their day. People invest time in what their passions.

What if we took passion to a whole new level? What about becoming completely passionate about God and making the same time for Him as we do for earthly fancies? God will transform your life. You will be so full of God that everything you do becomes about glorifying Him.

After we let ourselves become wholly His, He will use the desires and passions in our heart. The passion for music, baking, parenting, or any other desire in your heart (if pure) is from God. God has put those dreams in our heart and wants to use them, but we have to make it about Him first.

"When we are wholly His we will be more ourselves than ever."

~C.S Lewis

Once we have wholly submitted to His ways we will have the tools needed for the passions He has put in our heart.

WIZARD OF OZ

2011-01-14T16:13:00.001-06:00

Who: Center for Home Education

What: THE WIZARD OF OZ

When: February 4, 5, 10, 11 & 12 @ 7:30 p.m. and February 6 @ 2:30 p.m.

Where: Cottage Theatre, 5733 Watauga Road, Watauga TX 76148

Tickets: On sale now for $10, $8 for students and seniors

Reservations: 817.281.2293

More info: www.centerforhomeeducation.com

Story:

Based on the American Movie Classic of the same title staring Judy Garland, this production follows Dorothy Gale from her Uncle Henry's Kansas farm to the wonderful land of OZ. See all the beloved characters: the Scarecrow, Tinman, Cowardly Lion as well as Munchkins, Ozians, Jitterbugs Monkeys and Winkies galore, including a witch or two and a real live Toto too! "Are you a good witch or a bad witch?" Be a good one! Come out and support our student cast of "thousands!"

Featuring:

Camille Abelanet, Nicolas Abelanet, Janae Bontrager, Reighley Carlson, Ethan Carrigan, Hannah Carrigan, Elizabeth Chastain, Joshua Chastain, Benjamin Coan, Christopher Coan, Grace Coan, Andi Fredricks, Evan Glazier, Jacob Graham, Abigail Hines, Joy Hines, Avery Johnson, Miranda Kaplan, Emily King, Abby Mccarty, Erin Pellet, Lindsey Quiggle, Blake Redwine, Bradley Schuldt, Tanner Schuldt, Lydia Spaun, Carisse Sutton, Katy Sutton

Crew:

Lexi Cox, Jessica Hardy, Ashtyn Carrigan, Brandon Redwine, Rachael Wimmer, Alicia Sutton, Aishah Baber, Mimi Baber

Thriving, not just surviving

2011-01-10T00:07:00.004-06:00

Do you ever have those days where you say "Oh, I just hope I survive it"? Survive math class, a busy day, a huge exam, or whatever it is that seems to pull you down. I know I have said it before. Math is absolutely my least favorite subject. I have walked to class thinking "I'll survive. It's just math."

Well, I am tired of just "surviving"; Wether it be math or a long, hard day. To survive can be defined "to endure or get through." Of course I am going to "get through" the day. We can all "get through" life, but I want to thrive.

Synonyms for thrive: flourish, increase, succeed, overflow, grow. The list of positive words goes on and on.

I want to wake up each morning ready to succeed and grow in all that God has for me. I want to be so filled up in Him that I am an overflow of joy. Life is so much more worth it when you choose to thrive. Don't settle for surviving.

Trip to Alabama =)

2011-01-09T23:50:00.006-06:00

The last week of December and of 2010 passed by quickly. We arrived back at home, had a few days to settle back in, have a new years eve party and leave again.

This is Ethan, Ash, my Memaw, me, and Mom =)

This last trip was not expected, but needed. My Memaw (great-grandmother on my moms side) lives in Alabama along with cousins, aunts, and uncles. My Memaw's sister-in-law passed away in November on Thanksgiving and her brother passed away a few weeks later right around Christmas. My mom decided it would be best if we went to see Memaw and just comfort her so my mom, Ash, Ethan and I took the trip. I helped drive which was fun =) It was so good to see all my family. It wasn't an easy trip because I was ready to be home but I'm glad I got to see everyone.

While we were there our friends, the Stapletons who we haven't seen since March 2010, from Tennessee came to see us. We spent a whole day together walking around the mall (and Target), playing cards and catching up. Hopefully we wont have to wait that long to see each other next time! =) That was definitely the highlight of my trip and I am so thankful it worked out.

Me, Ash, Haley, and Matt found an empty spot in Target and talked for a couple of hours while our moms were in the Starbucks talking and our little brothers ran around. We had so much fun in there (check out the Facebook pictures).

All the kids crammed into the back =)

Matt, Luke, Ethan, Johnny, Ash, Me, and Haley!

There are so many more pictures (lots of funny ones too) so go look at them on Facebook! =)

Bringing in a God Year

2011-01-09T23:42:00.003-06:00

I don't remember the last time Ash and I have had a huge girls sleepover. So this year for New Years Eve we decided we would do a slumber party. We had about 20 girls at our house with a ton of food, lots of talking, fun games, and silly girl movies. It was a crazy night and I thoroughly enjoyed it! A girls night is just needed every once in a while.

The best part of the night was the last 15 minutes of 2010 and first 15 minutes of 2011. Around 11:30 we were discussing what we should do for the last little bit of the year. After Ash, a couple friends and I really thought about it we decided to give this time to God. We turned on a Chris Tomlin cd and worshipped our Savior. It gave us all time to realize all the wonderful things God had done for us that year and then continued to worship Him into the new year. It was so neat to see my friends all around me just praising God. It's one of my favorite things to experience.

This is going to be a God year. Im excited!

Christmas Vacation

2011-01-09T23:33:00.003-06:00

Just a little recap from vacation...The night we got there included trying to push the car up the driveway to no avail, resolving in ordered pizza for dinner, and stuffing us 4 kids on one couch under piles of blankets to watch a movie because the heater was not working. A cold yet exciting night. The next few days was a mix between sledding, building a snowman (notice the singular-I was the only one who built one), playing games and reading. On Wednesday was our first day of skiing! It was cold, snowy, and fun. Taking lessons was very helpful and the next two days we were going down all the greens and blues! I think we caught on pretty quickly and all of us can't wait to go again =)

The third day of skiing, also our last, Ash and I wrote this hilarious note and hid it up on top of one of the lifts. We tied it to a branch and covered it with snow. 2 weeks later our friends, Blake and Brandon, went up to ski at Wolf Creek too. We showed them on a map and even talked to them on the phone while they were up on the mountain to guide them to it, but they didn't ever find it. It was a sad treasure hunt!

Here is a compilation of pictures and videos from out trip =)

We definitely had an amazing vacation and made lots of memories. Thanks dad for taking us :)

Different doesn't always mean bad =)

2011-01-09T23:19:00.002-06:00

This was a very different Christmas. A good different, but still a little challenging. I have never been away from home on Christmas. I have never been without my big sis on Christmas. I have never went to bed without the excitement of waking up to gifts underneath the tree and knowing the day will be full of festivities.

I experienced all of that not happening this year.

And it was probably the best thing for me. As I laid in bed on Christmas Eve I thought about how much we change and our lives change. I realized that sometimes were going to be away for the holidays (Who knows where each of us will be just 5 years from now-Rachel is already a few states away), sometimes the people we most love are not going to be with us on every special occasion or holiday (especially as we get older), and sometimes a present does not come in the form of a perfectly wrapped gold box with a big red bow. Although I "went without" those things, I still had a lot of my family and made memories for a lifetime up in the mountains of Colorado. God really spoke to my heart that night. My family has always set the focus of Christmas to Jesus. We wouldn't have it if He did not come into this world. So what is the point of celebrating if we don't truly remember why it is such an important date? There isn't one. We still do gifts and in the recent years that has been a little different. Last year I explained what we get and why. It is still gifts we like but they have meaning in one way or another. =)

So even though we had a different Christmas the meaning stays the same and after a little struggling I was able to embrace that.

Truly A White Christmas

2010-12-18T01:37:00.002-06:00

We are leaving in 3 hours to go to Colorado! Yes, it is 2 a.m. and we are leaving at 5 a.m. Am I trying to pull an all nighter? Yes. We have had so much to do and I would rather hold out a few hours then try to wake myself up after a short nap.

We will be in the car for about 16 hours (give or take..depends on the weather) in just a little bit. I will probably sleep the first half of the trip and enjoy the scenery the next half. It is going to be snowing when we get there so we are bundling up and praying for a safe trip.

Most of the time we will be playing games, watching movies, and just spending time as a family. 3 of the days we get to go skiing! It's an amazing Christmas present. I will probably fall. Get up. Fall again. Get up. And finally ski! It's my first time so I am a little nervous but it will be fun no matter what. I am sure there will be a lot of hot cocoa and wrapping in blankets once we get back to the cabin. =)

We are still planning on having a huge Christmas feast! Mom and I have been working on pulling together a few ingredients and making a grocery list for when we get there. We have to have at least some of our traditional desserts and of course yummy ham, sweet potato casserole, macaroni, and other fun feasty foods. =)

Praying my mouth will heal up soon so I can eat real food...it's going to be an interesting car trip. Lots of applesauce! :)....:/

We will be gone for 9 days! I am sure the trip home next Sunday will not be as exciting as the trip there, but be looking for some pictures after Christmas. I will start taking those in just a few hours =)

Well I pray everyone has a wonderful Christmas. I'll be missing everyone especially my sister and brother, Rach and Joshua, who will be thought about every day of our trip! It will be good though.

Merry Christmas!

Another Blessing

2010-12-18T01:08:00.008-06:00

I barely missed a post for Friday. It is 1:30 a.m. on Saturday and I am finally sitting down to write about a blessing today.

As a teenager I have been learning and growing a lot. Recently there has been a situation I am working through and God has been right there to encourage me. He has been able to use my family (especially my mom) and everything is working out just fine. It has really helped me grow closer to friends, to family, and to God. I love experiences in life like that. Sometimes it can seem like the enemy uses those situations to make things worse, but this has been a good time of growing.

I find myself more amazed every day because of what God has blessed me with. He knows exactly what I need and when I need it. God never gives me more than I can handle and when I feel like I can't do deal with anything else God gives me strength to endure. God is good all the time. =)

There is a song from Wicked that I have not been able to get out of mind. It is called "For Good" and a lot of the lyrics I can so relate to.

"I've heard it said

That people come into our lives for a reason

Bringing something we must learn

And we are led

To those who help us most to grow..

..I know I'm who I am today

Because I knew you"

I can definitely say this about some of my friends especially lately. God has brought them into my life for a reason. We have learned from each other. I am who I am today because I know them.

"You'll be with me
Like a handprint on my heart
And now whatever way our stories end
I know you have re-written mine
By being my friend"

I can't imagine life without my friends. They have really changed my life. No matter what the future holds I am forever grateful for their friendships.

Two words: Oral Surgery

2010-12-16T09:31:00.002-06:00

The orthodontist, dentist, and oral surgeons are not my friends. They may seem extremely nice before they take you into the room of operations, but once they get you into that chair your own will no longer matters. Nitrous mask on. Needles injected. Medical tools tapping away at your teeth. The surgeon is now in control.

I find myself in this position a lot. No control over myself and doctors working a procedure in my mouth. This process that started...hmmm....about 4 years ago. But I guess all the cutting and grinding and tapping will be worth it when I have nice teeth...or when I have all my teeth!

Yesterday I took a little trip to the oral surgeon. They did a lot of work that I am not going to explain on here. It's too gory. The point of the operation was to go up into my gum and attach a bracket to a tooth that is not coming down. But because of this surgery I am extremely drugged up resulting in exhaustion. My surgery was yesterday morning and I have been in almost no pain, but I was nauseous from all the medicine. I threw up three times. It was like a domino effect. I would throw up because of the drugs, eat something then throw it up, try to take more drugs and throw it up because I had thrown up all my food. Pretty gross, huh?

I went to sleep at 5 p.m. last night and did not wake up until 8 a.m. this morning. Yes, I was exhausted. I'm pretty tired still but I am hanging out at CAIA all day until rehearsal tonight where I will probably just sit and watch.

Well there is my lovely story of mouth work. Have a good day! =)

Put On A Happy Heart

2010-12-15T00:26:00.003-06:00

I love my friends. They are so encouraging and I enjoy being with each one of them. Every day I thank God for blessing me with the incredible people in my life. Well here is a situation that proves this to be true...

The other day I was talking to my best friend, Portia. We were talking about not seeing each other for two weeks, which is a big deal for us, and some other things that made us sad. All of a sudden we both started singing "Put On A Happy Face." This is a song my friend, Bradley, is singing in Triple Threat. Portia and I went on to discuss why we should be happy anyway and just smiled because of a simple song our friend sang that encouraged us.

Later I was telling Bradley how that encouraged us, and he said "Even better...put on a happy heart!" Think about that. Not just be able to smile and have a happy face, but make a choice to be happy in stinky situations and it be a whole heart change. It's amazing the simple things in life God uses and what better people to use than your best friends? I. am. so. blessed.

I am going to try to post everyday up until our vacation. It might be something little but it's gonna be something. =) When I leave I can't post at all, but I am sure there will be an awesome vacation post when I get back!

Oh the holidays!

2010-12-13T14:59:00.002-06:00

It's Christmas time again. I love the holiday season for many reasons; family time, no school, enjoying friends, and the joy that seems to be so evident during this time. Today began that season for me. School is officially over for a month and I have a busy yet relaxing break to enjoy.

Saturday we depart for Colorado. We will be on vacation for 8 days with no internet or phone service..it's going to be a nice family trip. My dad is taking all of us skiing for Christmas. This is our first time to go so we are all excited!

For one reason I have mixed emotions about this vacation. This is my first Christmas without my big sister, Rachel. Joshua and Rachel are staying in California this year and we are all bummed that we have to be a part. I just keep telling myself God's plans are good and He works all things together for the good of those who love Him. I don't know when the next time I will see her again (it has been 7 months...the longest I have been without seeing her). I am praying God provides a way for us to be together soon. I miss them terribly and look forward to when we can all spend some time together.

It is going to be a great Christmas nonetheless, and I will probably take way too many pictures of the piles of snow and beautiful mountains. I pray this is a blessed Christmas for everyone and that we all remember the reason we celebrate it. =)

WIZARD OF OZ

2010-11-19T10:39:00.003-06:00

The cast list is now up and rehearsals have started for Wizard of Oz!! I am growing more and more excited about being a part of this musical with my friends. It is going to be an awesome experience and another step in performing for me. I am playing a few different chorus roles so I will get to be doing a lot of dancing and some singing. I have not been in a musical since Cinderella (in 2007). I have not been brave enough to audition for a musical since Cinderella (I'm surprised I even did then). Now I did it and am trusting God to help me grow in my acting abilities and strengthen my voice. =)

The performances are not until February, but please come see it! I will post dates when it gets closer! :)

Vote for Talon!

2010-11-09T07:11:00.002-06:00

Hey all!!

Talon is a part of Gerber baby contest (to raise money to help with his medical bills). Below is the link to go vote for him. You can do it once a day. Thanks! =)

http://www.gerber.com/photo/?entryid=166165&/#/detail/

Elections

2010-11-03T10:48:00.002-05:00

Ever since I went to TeenPact last year, I have been more and more interested in politics. It really is important for everyone to get involved. If we want to change this course that our country is going in, we have to do something.

Obviously I am not old enough to vote, but I will be next time (for presidential elections too)! Even though I am not old enough to vote, there are other things I can do. I have not done anything this year, but I am encouraged and have been paying more attention to politics. My friend does volunteer work for her representative and actually helped with his campaign. We don't have to be 18 to do that, and I really want to start participating in work like that.

With the elections going on, I have been thinking a lot about this. Anyway, that is all I have to say for now! =)

I Can't Believe It!

2010-11-03T10:42:00.003-05:00

I am trying out for a musical. Wizard of Oz is the next production at our theatre and after a few years of doing theatre and a semester of voice lessons, I have built up enough courage to audition. I am not expecting a certain part. I am just excited to possibly (I still have to audition) be a part of a musical because I know it will be fun no matter what. =)

I'll give an update when I know more!

hello, it's been a while.

2010-09-29T19:41:00.002-05:00

Hello. I thought I would pop in and give a little update on my life lately.

I turned 16! Yeah, never posted about that. I actually had a whole post about my birthday and growing up, but I accidentally deleted it! I have been 16 for a month now and it is so much fun! Life is so different now compared to just a few years ago. It is amazing the way people change; not just in appearance, but the way they think, respond and communicate.

As little kids, it seemed we found joy in the little things. Everything was so fascinating! I just look at all the little kids around me and think "we should all be a little bit more like them." Yes, we must learn and mature. That is what comes with growing up, but at the same time if we do not take time to "stop and smell the roses" life is just going to pass on by and we will wonder were time went, and more importantly wonder what did we do with that time. If I could say one thing right now, it would probably be don't take life for granted. God can use you in mighty ways. Will you let Him? God can speak to you. Will you listen? Life is too short to not stop and just enjoy all the blessings God has gifted us with. This is pretty much what I had said in the blog I deleted. I didn't know if I would ever get around to this. =) A song that sums all this up is "The Way I Was Made" by Chris Tomlin. God speaks to me a lot through songs.

(Here is a little excerpt)

I want to live like there's no tomorrow

I want to dance like no one's around

I want to sing like nobody's listening
Before I lay my body down
I want to give like I have plenty
I want to love like I'm not afraid
I want to be the man I was meant to be
I want to be the way I was made

My birthday is right after school starts, so I had to continue in the busyness of school and have not been able to spend much time on here. School is amazing! I have A's in all my classes (including Chemistry and English at TCC)! This semester has been really good. I've been thinking a lot. I think it's impossible for me to stop. Once a thought pops into my head, my brain keeps rolling and there is no stopping it! Maybe some day soon I will share some of what is going on this head of mine...we have been having consistent worship nights with a bunch of people from school! That is always just the refreshment I need to go back out in the world and be a light in the dark. =)

Last piece of exciting news! I got my license!!!!! I drove home from babysitting by myself last night (the day I got my license). I was not nervous and it didn't really scare me. It is really fun and I am so excited that I finally got it!

Well, that's all for now. Have an AMAZING week. Be successful, and remember make the most of each day God blesses you with. =)

Pullin' for Little Pullen

2010-09-03T23:24:00.002-05:00

I am participating in the Great Strides walk for Cystic Fibrosis on October 2nd. This is an organization that raises money to search for a cure for Cystic Fibrosis. An extremely special friend of mine, Natalie Pullen, has a four month old baby, Talon Pullen, who was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis when he was four weeks old. In order to support/encourage their family I am doing a 6 mile walk with her. To the right is a link to my Great Strides profile. It explains more about their organization and leads you to a place where you can donate to the team "Pullin' for Little Pullen." This money goes to the research for Cystic Fibrosis. I would really appreciate your support, and I know they would too.

I Love The Way He Loves Us

2010-08-23T22:42:00.006-05:00

In this first week of school, it has been so easy to complain about homework and how hard classes are going to be. When I notice that I am getting that way I try to turn my thoughts to the positive. My dad said it is a lot easier to be negative and complain than it is to be positive. Sadly that is true. Humans have a selfish nature, but that's why I am thankful for God's grace.

This week hasn't been all bad. I am only in two classes (yet, it seems like 5) right now and am praying I can get into a schedule. I have still been able to see my friends and on Tuesday I got to go to NRH2O with the Minters. That definitely added a little fun to the week. =)

I have also learned a lot this week. It's amazing how much God can teach you through little things.

I have been dropped from my classes at TCC 2-3 times now due to the fact that my financial aid had not gone through. Honestly, I have been really frustrated. It hasn't stressed me out because I know whatever happens will work out for the best, but it is still frustrating and just has upset me. Since it was TCC's fault they put me back in my chemistry class and english class but they cannot add me to lab (because of safety rules I think). Class starts in a week. I am still not in the lab. We are checking everyday and praying it will open up. Yesterday I was just done with it. I did not want to deal with it and was just upset because nothing was working out. During church with my family the song "Your Grace Is Enough" played. I just started crying. I couldn't help it. I needed His grace in this situation and this song just hit the spot.

Then "Free to Run" came on and I cried again. I have always loved this song, but yesterday it held a new meaning for me. Over and over I kept feeling God was saying "you are free to be yourself, you are free to live for Me the way I have called you, you are free." Not to overdo it, but seriously it was just freeing.

There are so many times I will be walking through a season in my life and I will hear a song that speaks to me. It not on accident. God knows what we need to hear. =)

Last Friday we had a worship night. I am always refreshed there. Who wouldn't be after spending the evening going after God with a bunch of passionate teenagers?? It really is one of the best parts of my week! We all share what God is doing in our life and anything He speaks to us together. A lot of us were talking about how this first week of school has had us down. We were so ready for this week then we felt like we hit a wall. The enemy really knows what gets to us and how to frustrate us, BUT God is bigger than that. Romans 8:31 "If God is for us, who can be against us?" Really! I just love to think about that. That night we were able to share what God had been telling us when we started to get frustrated. We shared verses and I left encouraged. Although I am still not fond of the amount of classes/homework I will have, I know God is still good and will walk right along side me.

1 Peter 5:7

"Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you."

When one season ends, Another must begin

2010-08-11T12:20:00.002-05:00

Summer is drawing to a close. The excitement and anticipation we all held just a few months ago is slowly fading. We really did make the most of this break though. This was one of the best summers I have ever had. They get better and better every year.

Yes, it is hard to believe that it has been three months since school ended. In just 5 days we will be hopping into the busyness of homework and studying and classes. Time flies so quickly. I think you realize that more as you get older. I still sit here shocked that I will be in 11th grade. I remember so clearly my first day of third grade and thinking all those high school students were so big! Now I am one of those high school students and have been for a while. 2 years. That is all and I will be graduated. Crazy, huh? =)

School is going to be an adventure this year! I am excited. I love to learn. There are always days when I cannot wait for summer and cannot stand homework, but there is always something exciting about school to me. This year I have a pretty light load. Only 4 classes. I start at CAIA on Tuesday. I will be there two days a week. Tuesday and Thursday for Spanish 2 and Advanced Math. I start TCC duel credit classes on the 30th. I will be taking Chemistry on Monday and Wednesdays then English online. I am sure college classes will be quite the experience! I am so blessed because I have 2 friends in my chem class and 4 in english! I thought I would be on my own once I started college. Yeah, not possible with my friends. We are pretty much inseparable. =)

This has been an amazing summer and I am excited for this next season.

Random Excitement

2010-07-25T23:52:00.004-05:00

Summer always has its slow times and busy times. I have spent most of my summer in a non stop blur of excitement. Therefore when I am able to catch a moment where I'm not going at 100 mph, I read or accomplish something.

The past couple of weeks I have not sat down at all, but I have thoroughly enjoyed it. The Bailey's, our friends from Georgia, came for a week. When they are here we always have something to do. We just pulled out our ping pong table again, so entertainment was easy to find. We all love to play cards and games too. I baked a lot. I always find that fun, so the week could not have gotten much better. :P While they were here we invited lots of friends over and had a little party. We danced, played ultimate frisbee (my team didn't win, but I almost fainted on the last round because it was so hot!!), ping pong, cards, and just enjoyed being together.

Thursday (the day the Bailey's left) our theatre had its first annual Gala. It is a formal theatre event where actors/actresses are recognized and given awards. It was a huge success, especially for out first time. I'm so excited for next year. Everyone looked fancy. I am going to put the pics on Facebook and post one with all the "Rosie Award" winners on another post (I haven't uploaded them onto the computer yet).

On Friday my younger brother, Ethan, tested for his low brown belt and passed. He is doing incredible in karate and lovin' it! =) It was a long tournament because so many people are testing but we had fun.

Saturday we had the Messingers over. I think my parents have known them for a long time. I love their family! We played our new favorite game with them. If I posted what it was, you would want an explanation and it just wouldn't work so I am not even going to say what it's called. I guess you will just have to wait in suspense and play with us sometime. ;) We LOVE it though, and play so much. Nat and Doug come over a lot and play with us.

Today we went on a mini road trip to Eastwood (it is in east Texas, past Dallas). My dad found some land out there he liked. In the near future his dream is to own acres and acres of land with a big main house, and 5 mini cottages (there are 5 kids in my family, so each of us he would let choose the style and it would be "our" cottage). His plan is to use it for family reunions, weekend getaways, and to rent it out. It would be a really neat place for people to go on retreats, go for a simple family vacation, a girl's weekend, etc. He has been praying about it a lot. This is no small/cheap idea, but God for sure answers prayers and if this is something that my dad is supposed to do, God will provide. He always does. We for sure know a lot about that. =)

Well, there is an update on my life and all the random excitement it has held!

What I've Been Reading

2010-07-14T10:31:00.002-05:00

1) "Meditating on the promises of God will strengthen you." Isn't that encouraging? That is the sixth chapter in a book I am reading called "Strengthening yourself in the Lord" by Bill Johnson. First of all, Bill Johnson is just cool. Secondly, I really recommend reading this book or any of his books. After I finish this one, I think I am going to read a Kris Vallotton book. We have a whole shelf of their books so I will have plenty of books to read. Here is a excerpt from the book I am reading that spoke to me today:

"Defining ourselves by the Word of God requires that we constantly train our minds to think in agreement with that Word. This means we have to remind ourselves of His promises often. But don't stop there! Learn to meditate on them. Like Mary, we must treasure them up and ponder them in our hearts (see Luke 2:19). While Eastern meditation tries to get people to empty their minds, biblical meditation focuses on our filling our minds-and our mouths-with the truth. Joshua 1:8 says, 'This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make you way prosperous , and then you will have good success.' One of the definitions for the Hebrew word "meditate" is "to mutter." Meditating involves repeating the words God has said out loud. As Joshua was told, this regular repetition of what God has said is the key to our ability to do the Word."

I know this is a long excerpt, but read it. It holds a lot of truth. I like how he compares eastern meditation, and how that is clearing your mind. But meditating, like the Word says, is filling your mind. If we repeat the Word and have our mind full of the Truth, we will be strengthened. Also, the last line where it says "to do the Word" made me smile because in my previous post I had been talking about that being a Christian is an action, not a noun. We need to do. Well, that's all about that book.

2) In the Word I am all over the place. My whole family is reading a proverbs every day for the month of July. I keep calling it 31 days of Proverbs. Today would be Day 14 or Proverbs 14. My mom suggested we pick out one verse from each chapter every day and meditate on that throughout the day. I am also writing that one verse down in a notebook. Then I am reading it, writing it, saying it, and thinking about it.

I also am reading through the gospels still. I am in Luke and it is taking me a while to get through it...

Sometimes I will just start reading in other random places too. It really is all good. =)

3) Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis - an extremely incredible book. It is a lot to take in. I cannot rush when I am reading it, so I make sure I have plenty of time. I think I am halfway through it.

4) There are actually two other books I am reading, but they are kind of on hold. Generation Change by Zach Hunter. It is great, but I am more captivated by these other books. Also, I am still reading the Lost books by Ted Dekker. I am not liking it is a much as his other books but it is another piece to the puzzle that needs to be read. I am on Lunatic-the fifth of six, so only those two left then I can read the Paradise novels, which I think will be really interesting!

Slowly I am slipping out of the fiction/story literature and more into inspirational non-fiction books. The fiction books don't hold my attention as much because I want to be fed. I'm looking for food. I am hungry for more and you just don't find it in fiction as much. Don't get me wrong...I have read Ted Dekker and other fiction books that have taught me a lot. I love literature. Just right now, I am into spiritual growth books. =)

If We Are The Body

2010-07-12T23:30:00.004-05:00

Today on the way home from a friend's house we were listening to Casting Crowns. I have heard many people say they don't like them (if it is their style, lyrics, whatever..i'm not sure), but to me their songs are straight truth, relevant, and can be heart breaking.

As I was listening to one song "If We Are The Body", they ask many thought provoking questions. Questions that need to be asked. Questions that stump people. Why? Because there is no answer...no excuse.

A few of their songs on that first CD talk about the body of Christ doing their job, and what would happen if they really did. God has called us to live a life of high standards. We are not supposed to blend in with the world. We are not supposed to act like what has become normal. We are supposed to shine Jesus. Many wonder why people are hurt by the church or why people are not interested in "Christianity." It is because as Christians, as followers and disciples of Christ, we have not done our job. There are many people who say they are Christians but if thats what being a Christian is really all about than I wouldn't be interested either.

We aren't perfect. We are human and sadly we make decisions in the flesh that are not the way Jesus would act. That is why he died for us. We needed a Savior, someone that would humble themselves and die so we could be forgiven. Yes, I understand it is hard. I really want to be the person God created me to be. I so badly want to always respond in love and be a servant as if I was serving Jesus and not men because in reality I am. (Matthew 25:40-I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me-Every time I want to do something out of selfish motivation I remind myself of this verse. I'm serving Jesus. I'm serving Jesus. I'm serving Jesus.)

This is probably what the deepest part of me yearns to do. Look like Jesus. Gateway Church is doing a series about your one prayer. We went to one of their prayer classes and it was focused on us going back to that one prayer that God has placed inside of us. When I prayed, it was a long run goal. My dreams....how I want that one prayer to unfold. I prayed that I would be a generation changer and I would see revival. As I listened to these songs today, I realized the reasoning behind those dreams and prayers. With everything inside of my spirit I want to be someone who looks like Jesus not Hannah Carrigan. When people see me I don't want it to be me they see but a disciple of Jesus, a child of God.

Yes, I want to see revival. I want to look different and be full of Joy no matter the circumstances. I want to see that in my generation, but it has to start with me changing and letting God mold me into looking like Him. I am restless with the fact that people are okay with living their life the way they do, the way many people in America and across the world live their life. It's sad. We are a broken bride. Wow...I could write a whole other post about that. I will later. There is a lot connected to it. =) Anyway, I am just ready to be the church, be the body of Christ. It is not about a building. It is a verb, not a noun. An action. When Jesus preached, he did not only talk. He did.

I want to look like Jesus. I want to act like Jesus.

Get Ready For Revival

2010-06-28T13:14:00.003-05:00

God is doing something. I can feel it stronger than I have before. God did something amazing in every heart of each person who attended Newbreed last week. He is preparing a generation who will step out with child like faith and not be ashamed to share about the saving love of Jesus.

As corny as it sounds, we really are a new breed. We are a unique generation and God is going to use us. The dreams and passions God put in my heart about shining His light and changing the world are not silly. They are from Him. They are alive. And He ignited that fire last week that has been burning in me for a LONG time.

The theme this past week was "ignite." The scripture was Deuteronomy 4:24, "For the LORD your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God." He is a consuming fire! Without fire, we won't reach our destiny. We have to be filled with the fire of God and we did just that last week.

We were encouraged, taught, prophesied over. It was incredible! I experienced a deeper level in worship than I thought was possible. I am not afraid to jump around, clap my hands, raise my hands...anything. I was raised that way and I know there is freedom in worship. That is when we really connect with God. So I prayed that if there was a deeper level that God would take me there and He did. I encountered God. We encountered God. I can tell you that there is a group of young kids ready to take on the world. Ready to fulfill their calling. Ready to be used by God. I know I am.

The feeling that all of this brings is so strong. I don't want it to leave. I want it to be stronger. A group of my friends that went have already been talking about what we can do. We are ready to move into action. We can't just talk about what God has been doing and not show it.

I would hold on tight because God has something big in store and its coming soon. Get ready for revival. I can feel it as deep as my spirit goes.

On the road again..

2010-06-20T23:30:00.002-05:00

..and I can't believe it. Sometimes I feel like I am gone more than I am home. The camps I have been to have been incredible though and I would not change it!

Well, I am leaving tomorrow (with a TON of my friends this time) to go to camp!! We are going to Newbreed (led by Mark Jobe...Kari Jobe as the worship pastor) Monday-Friday. This is my second year to go, and I know God has big plans in store.

I don't like to call it church camp because to me that doesn't explain it well enough. This is an intense youth conference. There is plenty of free time to play games and relax, but I enjoy the sessions even more. Last year, God used Newbreed majorly in my life. I learned a lot and went into a much deeper relationship with God.

I am so excited for all my friends that are going for the first time. They are in for a life changing week. I will let you know how it goes when I am back!

Have a great week!

Sunburn

2010-06-16T15:56:00.003-05:00

I am red and burnt.

We went swimming at the Pollocks yesterday and I spent my time laying out under the sun...reading. We were there for a few hours and I jumped in the pool to cool off a few times, but I was enjoying myself just relaxing...until...

last night when something hit my legs. Or today when I took a shower and the water felt like it was pounding my shoulders and legs.

I am sure it will all be over tomorrow. That is normally how it is for me...then I will be tan. Yay!

The weird thing is...I am ready to go swimming again. All day I have been wanting to go to NRH2o. We had season passes a few years ago and I loved it. Plus on Wednesdays some of my favorite people are there! All of my little kids I love to babysit. I am gonna go with them one of these Wednesdays. =)

Today was kind of a boring day...I finished a book then had nothing to do. I have a project on hold...I am waiting on something before I can continue...so I can't work on that. I guess a day with nothing to do is okay sometimes...I like to do though...i'm not a good boring person.

Well that's all for now. Have a wonderful hot summer day! =)

Our Most Faithful Producer

2010-06-07T22:37:00.004-05:00

We have had an abundance of blackberries! We pick enough to fill a gallon bag, and just a few days later there are tons more!

We have stuffed two sandwich bags already and given them to friends, and still had plenty, so......I made a pie!

It turned out fantastic, if I say so myself! As long as the plants keep on producing, I will keep on baking! =)

its definitely summer break

2010-06-07T15:24:00.003-05:00

Summer has been so much fun! I have been so busy, but home enough to get things done.

Last week I did study. My friends and I sat there the whole time thinking "we should not be doing this. its summer." But sure enough it could not be helped...I had to study for the accuplacer, which I still haven't taken. I think this is the last week! Oh no! =) I also need to spend some time studying for the psat and sat, but I mainly want to get college testing out of the way.

So for the fun part...last Tuesday we had a sleepover birthday party for Grace. Almost every girl from school was there. It was crazy, but also our last time to all hang out before Grace's family moves to California for the summer. :(

Thursday I had an orthodontist appointment..no fun, but afterwards I hung out with friends and ended up spending the night with Portia that night. We had yummy chinese food and watched part of the first Lord of the Rings. I love being with Portia! =)

Friday morning we went to the cowboys stadium! That was so much fun! That night we saw the Triple Threat concert. It was amazing! My friends are so talented. :) Saturday night we had a graduation party for a friend who is one of 5 boys..I have grown up with their family my whole life and they are pretty much my brothers. Sunday we had a graduation party for my older brother, Hunter. I read my letter to him when everyone was saying something to him...I cried. I am going to miss him so much when he goes to college, but we still have the rest of the summer!

In between all of that I have played lots of cards with my family. We love games. :)

That would be my busy week. Today I am home. It is actually nice. I have been sort of productive. :P I uploaded all my pictures from the stadium, cut a watermelon that has been in our fridge for a week (it is so sweet and delectable!), picked the strawberries and blackberries from our garden, watered the garden, and started dinner. I am probably making a blackberry pie tonight!!!

Well, I guess that's enough for now...:)

Changing Lives To Change The World

2010-05-30T23:52:00.002-05:00

That was the theme this year at National Convention. (If you follow that link you can watch the live recording from the sessions. I don't know how long they will be up, but I really recommend Tuesday evening. They were all awesome!)

TeenPact's goal is to effect the lives of this generation, so we can make a difference in our society; therefore, the reasoning behind the theme.

Day 1: Change starts here. They talked about change starting with ourselves and we have to change first before we can change others. It is so true and everything they had to say was encouraging. (This was Tuesday and the message that night was great. Aaron spoke and challenged us with questions like: Do we live as if were longing to be with our Savior? Would we be okay to go to a Heaven and have everything we wanted but Jesus not be there. He used a quote from John Piper and now I want to go read his books. Honestly, it makes me uncomfortable to think that people would actually be okay with that, but sadly it is true.)

Day 2: A Heart For Change. On Wednesday it was focused on our heart. Chad Warren spoke both morning and evening sessions. The big topic he covered was about us having idols in our life...from t.v. to making going to church an idol. Extremely good message!

Day 3: Effecting Social Change. Thursday we learned about being salt and light (Matthew 5).

Day 4: Eternal Change. It was just the same as it sounds. I really encourage you to listen to the messages because me explaining it will not do it justice. =)

That is brief overview of what I learned this past week! We did lots of other fun activities too...small groups (we discussed what we had learned and did group competitions the last couple of days), Men at work with Will and Zach (a cooking show with two of the interns :P), afternoon news ("weather" report and "news" about events going on at National Convention), elections (This is a big part of NC. People run for president, vice president, senator, and representatives. They campaign and we run elections similar to presidential elections in the US.), and free time!

I had an awesome week and am grateful to everyone who made it possible!

I can't wait to see all my friends who were not able to be a part of TeenPact this year!

P.S. If you want to see pictures, check out facebook. =)

I Can't Believe It!

2010-05-23T23:03:00.002-05:00

Wow! Hunter graduated tonight. It came so soon. Rachel graduated 3 years ago and married two years later. I graduate in two years. Ashtyn two years after that. Ethan two years after her. My parents have one year in between each graduation for a break (seeing that no one gets married in that time...).

The rest of tonight I will be packing, celebrating Hunter's graduation with family and a few really close friends, and spending as much time with Rachel and Joshua as I can. They leave Tuesday to move to California.

I am leaving in the morning for National Convention. It is a camp that is opened up for the alumni of TeenPact state classes. I can't believe I am leaving again, but it will be a good experience. I will miss everyone. I hope you have a good week! I will be back Saturday and see everyone after that! =)

Now I am off to finish packing as quickly as I can then go soak up the time I have left with my oldest siblings. :)

End of School Bash

2010-05-23T15:05:00.002-05:00

On Friday we celebrated the end of school and the beginning of summer! The Pollocks pulled together a swim party. We all had a blast and of course someone got thrown in...it wouldn't have been a pool party without that. =)

A lot of the girls sat on the edge of the pool the whole time...the water was still pretty cold.

Megan and Ashtyn :)

James attempting to jump into the float. :P

Ethan diving over a noodle. Pretty nice action shot, right?

Commitment

2010-05-23T12:30:00.002-05:00

I'm really good at setting goals, but not overcoming them. It has become more important to me to really spend time with God. I wake up in the morning and know I need to read my Bible and that is where the problem comes up. It shouldn't be a need to, but a want to.

Don't get me wrong, I love my quiet time with Jesus...Spending time in the Word and learning more and more. I wake up in the morning, though, and I have to force myself to not roll back over or just get up and go on with busyness of the day.

Instead of saying my goal is to...I am going to purpose to wake up early (even though it is summer) and making time before anyone else wants my time or I get pulled into something else to read my Bible and dig into it every morning. I want to learn everything I can. I don't want to settle and just be okay with where I am in my relationship with God. I want to always be going deeper and making His voice more recognizable.

If I say it is a goal (and don't accomplish it), I get disappointed that I didn't do it. My quiet time just needs to be purposeful then it will become more of a want to and it will be part of just my life that is important to me.

I hope this makes sense and not a lot of jumbled thoughts! =)

Bittersweet

2010-05-22T00:11:00.003-05:00

Leaving one season, moving onto the next. That's a good thing, right?

I never thought I would have a teacher who I loved so much and would be this hard to leave. Yesterday was my last day of class with Mrs. Minter. I have had her for the past three years in literature and could not have EVER asked for a better teacher.

8-10 grade I experienced some amazing things. I grew a lot in these past few years. She contributed a lot to that. Every week in class she made me want to try harder, learn lots, and grow in my relationship with God. The light of Jesus just radiates off of her. I have two more years left in high school and I cannot imagine not having her as a teacher, but I know she has taught me well and I am ready to move on into the next season (college classes for dual credit).

I honestly don't want to imagine what it will be like not seeing her every week. She is the sweetest person I have ever met and she is a huge blessing. I don't want to think about her not being a part of my life. Actually I am not going to because I am going to believe she will be. =)

Really, it was seriously bittersweet. I know it is a good thing. God has a plan for everything and His plan is best, yet it is extremely sad to say goodbye to the most wonderful teacher ever. I know God placed her in my life for a reason. I'll always love her and she will always hold a special place in my heart.

It's beginning to feel like summer!

2010-05-20T09:26:00.005-05:00

I love summer! Although, we might be scorched in the sun at times, summer is amazing. So far, it has not been too hot.

Tuesday I was organizing my room. I was trying to clean out all of my school books, throw out papers I did not want, and get all my report cards together to write up my transcript so I can register for TCC duel credit classes, when Ash told me that mom said we could invite people over. I scrambled to finish my "summer room cleaning", take a shower, and pick up the house a little.

I got everything done in perfect timing and we had about 6 friends come over. We hung out with Beth, Blake, Brandon, Jake, Alicia and Miranda from about 4-10 at the park and my house playing games and watching movies. It was really nice to have such a fun time and not have to be thinking about what I was going to have to catch up on for taking this "break."

I ended up spending the night with Beth and staying up until about 2...We slept until 10:30 though! My body normally does not let me do that but it sure did feel good! Beth and I had an amazing time...all day we kept saying, "It's Wednesday and we don't have school. It's summer!" I think we just needed the reminder to keep having fun. We talked, talked some more, went to the pool(actually swam for a little bit-didn't go under the water though. It was still a bit too cold!), made a cake, talked again, and went to Charlie Brown practice. We talk a lot. =) It was a blast and I am really looking forward to all the fun things summer break holds.

Beth and I were talking about things we could do this summer. We really want to go to the zoo, try to go to Six Flags, go to NRH2O (hopefully), and definitely swim at her neighborhood pool. Those are all things we can do in big groups so after I get back from being out of town next week, we are going to plan something! :)

Freedom!

2010-05-17T14:29:00.002-05:00

Summer is here and I am so excited! No more homework. Yay! I'm still trying to train my brain not to start planning out my homework for the next day as I lay in bed. It is so nice not have assignments waiting to be finished, classes to attend, late nights and little sleep. The late nights have not stopped, but I do not mind that much especially since I can sleep late.

Our first weekend of Charlie Brown was a success! They did amazing and I am having a blast working with all these amazing people. We still have one more weekend of performances coming up...get tickets if you haven't! It is hysterical and I know you will enjoy it. We have had great reviews from lots of people.

Now that school is out this musical has not been stressful. It makes for a busy weekend but I love doing it so its all good! We have one more literature class but that doesn't count. It does not stress me out and we are just watching Hamlet on Thursday. I have never seen it before so that's exciting.

Nothing exciting has happened in the last couple of weeks so I have not posted...boring, i know.

Well, I cannot say nothing! Natalie had her baby on May 5. That was awesome. Boswell Talon Pullen. Adorable. Cute. Precious. It doesn't even begin to explain how adorable he is. Seriously. I have not had a baby around in a long time and I love it. I love to cuddle and hold him.

I have also had a blast having Natalie and Doug live across the street. They are so much fun and I love hanging out with them. I was talking to Natalie just a little bit this afternoon and really am blessed to have someone like her around. She is so sweet and I enjoy being with her.

That's all for today. =)

Naps

2010-04-30T23:25:00.004-05:00

I took an 1.5 hour nap today. I rarely take naps. I think I got up too early for staying up past 2. It was fun and definitely worth it (I love hanging out with Natalie, Morgan, Noelle, Mom, Ash, and Grammy) but I was exhausted! I was woken up by 8 and I guess I just didn't sleep good enough. My nap made me more tired when I woke up but tonight I definitely was not as tired as I would have been.

Tonight we had rehearsal for the end of the year recital at CAIA. I am not in it but I am working in the tech booth with Mrs. Anicia. We have two recitals tomorrow then we will be done with that!

I have two more weeks of school...plus one more literature class after that. Our last class though we get to watch Hamlet so that will be fun. One thing I am really happy about is we are not having a science final! Our fetal pig dissection will count as our final, which I am completely fine with. =)

After school is over we have two weekends of Charlie Brown then I think my summer will actually begin. I'm excited for the break from school but my friends and I are definitely trying to plan stuff to be with each other all the time. :)

You're A Good Man Charlie Brown

2010-04-29T21:42:00.001-05:00

Please come see the Cottage Theatre's next production! It is so funny. I know everyone will enjoy. Little kids will probably even be able to sit through it. =)

Who: Center for Home Education

What: You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown (Musical Comedy)

When: May 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22 @ 7:30

Where: The Cottage Theatre, 5733 Watauga Road, Watauga 76148

Tickets: $10/$8

Reservations: 817.281.2293

Story: It’s just an average day in the life of Charlie Brown. Actually, it’s really a day made up of little moments picked from all the days of Charlie Brown, from Valentine's Day to the baseball season, from wild optimism to utter despair, all mixed in with the lives of his friends (both human and non-human) and strung together on the string of a single day, from bright uncertain morning to hopeful starlit evening.

Featuring: Bethany Ahles, Kaitlin Bledsoe, Ashtyn Carrigan, Ethan Carrigan, Elizabeth Chastain, Benjamin Coan, Christopher Coan, Grace Coan, Megan Daws, Brian Haywood, Miranda Kaplan, Emily King, Denton Latham, Alex Palla, Bradley Schuldt, Tanner Schuldt, Shelby Skomer, Alicia Sutton, Benjamin Vallance, Annie Vaughan

Crew: Hannah Carrigan, Maggie Monck, Kinsey Peresh & Jake Etheridge

Directed by Anicia D. Brown

For more information go to: www.centerforhomeeducation.com

TeenPact

2010-04-29T21:09:00.005-05:00

It's just one of those "you gotta be there" things. I can do my best to explain it and talk about some amazing times I had, but it will be nothing in comparison to what I actually experienced.

So TeenPact has state classes, which is what I went to. It is like a government leadership camp. We had homework involving government before. We had to write bills, analyze bills, memorize scripture, etc. It was a lot of work but totally worth it. I am not gonna lie...I really missed my friends. Even though they kept us busy I thought about them constantly and what we would be doing or what class would be next. They will just all have to go next year! =)

A few different activities:

Prayer walks: We went around the capitol to places like the Peace Officers Memorial, the Justice of the Peace building, outside of the governor's office, the house, the senate, etc.

Field Experiences: These were hands on activities. They want us to not just learn about it but DO it. We had a crossfire debate field experience one time. Sarah Pollock and I partnered up and we just had to debate something simple. Lots of fun! We were taken into the House and Senate for one and told all these interesting facts. It was awesome. There were also more. =)

Legislative Session: We would actually read bills and debate them...then see if they passed or failed. We had to use proper terms when asking question to the "lady" or "gentleman" in the "well". :)

Committees: We were split up into five different committees at the beginning of the week. I was a part of Judicial. That is where we went through bills and decided if they would pass or fail before we actually brought them into the legislative session.

We had worship every morning and night. It was really good. The last night the presence of God definitely was there. He touched many people and it was a really sweet time.

When we did not have something on the schedule to do we could play games, hang out around the camp, play ultimate frisbee, canoe, etc. Lots of things to do! One afternoon Sarah, Blake, and I decided to go take a canoe trip....well thats what it turned into. We did not know there was a place we were not supposed to go past so we went on an adventure. We ended up coming close to a road...oops. They did not tell us we were not supposed to go past the curve in the river until after we got back. Im secretly glad they did not because we had tons of fun. :)

One part of the camp that really drew me in was the verse the guest director spoke on every night when we went back to the camp. Romans 12:2. It is my life verse. It has always been one of my favorites. I have it on a sticky note in my room. I have it memorized. I know I have a calling to be different. To stand out in the crowd just like Jesus did. This verse has been my motivation I guess...what I am following. He talked about the first part too. We need to be completely sold out for Jesus. Our life should be a complete sacrifice for Him. Romans 12:1-2 are just really good life verses.

That pretty much sums up my week...well I am leaving out a pretty important part. Our trip home. We we SO tired. We (Mrs. Spaun, Lydia, Mrs. Redwine, Blake and I. Sarah had dance rehearsal so her and her dad left earlier) left around 6 and stopped to eat. Then we really got on the road closer to 8. We talked and laughed and took a detour. Yeah that sounds about right. I think around 10...maybe before we were just delirious. We had an exhausting and fun week so we could not stop talking about it yet we were so tired that everything we said was funny. Mrs Spaun was in a car by herself :( but Mrs Redwine laughed right along with us. That was the end to an amazing week! =)

On the road again....

2010-04-19T05:07:00.002-05:00

I have been really busy lately...I am just always busy during the school year. I had a slow weekend a couple of weeks ago and I was able to catch up on everything. Like I said, I missed a couple of posts in that busyness. Oh well! Life goes on. =)

You will for sure not be getting any posts the next four days though. I am headed out to Austin for TeenPact. I am going with Lydia and Mrs. Spaun, Blake and Mrs. Redwine, Sarah and Mr. Pollock. I am super excited and know I am in for an exciting and challenging week.

I am going to miss everyone! I hope you have a good week! =)

Living in the Supernatural

2010-04-17T10:26:00.005-05:00

This morning during my quiet time God revealed a lot to me through one scripture. John 16:33.

"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

I was studying scripture, and this verse has always been one of my favorites, but it struck new meaning.

God said to pray His Kingdom come to earth. It is in the Lord's Prayer. In Matthew 3:2, it says "the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand." It is right there. It is available to us to walk in the supernatural where God's kingdom is here on earth.

So while I was reading John 16:33 I started thinking more and more about it. I always had a "surface knowledge" of what it meant. Yes, we can have peace because Jesus came to earth and died for us. I think this scripture means more though.

Because God sent His Son to earth to overcome the sins, stress, and sickness of this world, we can walk in complete wholeness and completeness with God. Jesus overcame the world so we do not have to "put up" with anything this world tried to use to slowly pull us away from God.

We can choose to live in the supernatural. We can choose to look at sickness in the face and tell it to leave because Jesus overcame it. We do not have to let the wolrd overcome us.

Just think what we could do if we all walked in that.

I am still trying to figure out how to put it into words but there its is, the best I could do for now. =)

Yardwork

2010-04-17T10:22:00.006-05:00

So I was going to do all these posts last weekend and I didn't. I wanted to post about Easter, then we had major Saturday work day, then a fun Saturday night. Yeah, none of that got posted. I totally forgot to post about my older sister's(Rachel) and my dad's b-day. March 28 was my dad's b-day and April 3 Rachel turned 20. Well happy birthday to them! Love you both! =)

Here are a few pictures of what kept us busy last Saturday and lots of work on other days!

Dad turned music on and we got to work =)

Our garden was over grown so dad and ethan mowed it out. We all pulled weeds and level out dirt. Then we put down black tarp to kill the grass so we don't have to keep mowing inside of he garden. Eventually we want to lay pebbles everywhere so it looks nice. =)

Doug(our family friends living across the street) hauled a truck load of dirt from our friend's house and dumped it in the field next to their fence, tore the fence down and just shoveled dirt into their garden. We would just walk over there with buckets and grab some. I thought the whole set-up was pretty funny so I took a picture.

Lucy chasing London...

Me and London :)

It is finished for now! =)

Spring Break Part 2 - Camping!

2010-03-31T22:37:00.005-05:00

After a week long trip in Tennessee we headed to go camping! It was sunshiney and beautiful Friday. Saturday and Sunday were cold and rainy but we still had fun. Friday we celebrated Blake's birthday by having a huge football game, an egg toss, and ate dinner together then enjoyed cake and icecream. :) Saturday we watched movies and played cards and did other fun things in the camper. We did make it out to go on a bike ride. We bundled up and endured the cold. Lydia had a crash and we all prayed for her and carried her back on her bike...that was an adventure. She was okay about 30 minutes later! The weekend was so much fun and we can't wait to go again. It is definitely a fun group of people.

We were watching a movie :)

I think his partner might have thrown the egg just a little too hard!

Jordan, Lydia, Me =)

"Pain is weakness leaving the body"....Lydia's quote all week :)

Football!