My sweet Papa has been in the hospital for a few days now. His kidneys are not working properly and he has been in a ton of hip/back pain from laying in a hospital bed for many days. My whole family is pretty down.
I try to be the same positive little girl that I've always been in hard times like this. The jokes I've been trying to crack with my papa should be illegal. Today's main one involved me loling because his robe looked like my old Catholic school uniform skirt. Today, though, the heavy heart fell upon me as well as I realized he may be in the hospital at Christmas. I quickly tried to turn things around, though.
I think of all the children with cancer this year who may have spent many holidays in the hospital. I think of all the people in third world countries with illnesses and no medicine to help. I think of Mary giving birth to Jesus in a barn naturally 2000 years ago, seriously is that even possible?
Anyways, I've been trying to put things in perspective. I know that Christ has a plan for my Papa and I personally think it will be for him to return home soon. So many people have reached out to us in prayer and the idea of just surrounding him with that right now makes me feel so blessed in itself. I cannot imagine a life without knowing Christ in times like these.
So my goal for this Christmas is to focus solely on Christ and prayer. I may have been too caught up on presents, Santa, and twinkly lights already but know from now on I'm looking straight to you Lord. Thank you so much for sending your Son. His word, life, and passion will always be almost incomprehensible to me because of the immense beauty they all hold.
My dad and I are currently obsessed with the Christmas song "Strange Way To Save The World". The lyrics completely describe the insanity of Christmas.
To think of how it could have been
If Jesus had come as He deserved
There would have been no Bethlehem
No lowly shepherds at His birth
But Joseph knew the reason
The love had to reach so far
And as he held the Savior in his arms
He must have thought…
Why me, I'm just a simple man of trade
Why Him, with all the rulers in the world
Why here inside a stable filled with hay
Why her, she's just an ordinary girl
Now I'm not one to second guess what angels have to say
But this is such a strange way to save the world
<3 Merry Christmas!
Monday, December 23, 2013
Sunday, December 8, 2013
Maria - From the Eyes of Her Boyfriend.
The day I met Maria, I have to admit, I didn't know that we would last. It's not that I wasn't extremely attracted to her (cause I am... she's quite the hottie) or that I didn't think we would be a good match, its just that I had no idea that she was the one. Well we have been dating over three years now and, needless to say, she's it for me. I've never bonded with someone so quickly as I have bonded with her and I have thoroughly enjoyed watching our ideas of love change from that early high school love to a full on adoration for one another.
You all have to understand that I am a thinker. I think. A lot. Sometimes I think a little too much and its not that great for me or her or us. I keep a lot of things to myself and have a hard time really telling people what I think or feel without BS-ing them in some way or another in order to hide things inside. One of these things is showing Maria how much she means to me.
(This is where you can stop reading if you don't like cheese balls... I'll try and keep it to a minimum, I promise)
I have always told my friends, whenever Maria and I were mad at each other over something or had been arguing, that Maria Teresa Miller is the absolute perfect person to be in a relationship with. Though we have our arguments, I have never doubted that losing her would be the biggest mistake of my life. I can sit here and try and describe her with a lot of words such as kind, beautiful, caring, etc. but I would probably have a list too long for anyone to read and still not have said everything I want to about her. It came to me the other day that I can easily explain her in one word. Love.
Let me explain.
God amazes me every day. It absolutely blows my mind how he has created things on this earth that help explain who he is and what he has done for us. One thing that has and will continue to make my head explode into a thousand tiny little bits of YOU-WILL-NEVER-UNDERSTAND is marriage. Marriage is so absolutely important to us little humans, even past the actual connection between two people, because it is a metaphor of our connection with Jesus.
Jesus said,"In My Father's house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also." John 14:3
Okay cool, Jesus made a place for me in heaven (old news) what does that have to do with Madea? (what I call Maria) Well, it has a lot to do with her, actually. In the olden days, a man would build a room on the side of his father's house and when it was finished he would go retrieve the woman he would marry and they would both come back and live in that "dwelling place" together. I believe God created marriage to show us how we must view our relationship with him. Therefore, I need to treat Maria with the same amount of love and passion that I should show God. They go hand and hand.
You all have to understand that I am a thinker. I think. A lot. Sometimes I think a little too much and its not that great for me or her or us. I keep a lot of things to myself and have a hard time really telling people what I think or feel without BS-ing them in some way or another in order to hide things inside. One of these things is showing Maria how much she means to me.
(This is where you can stop reading if you don't like cheese balls... I'll try and keep it to a minimum, I promise)
I have always told my friends, whenever Maria and I were mad at each other over something or had been arguing, that Maria Teresa Miller is the absolute perfect person to be in a relationship with. Though we have our arguments, I have never doubted that losing her would be the biggest mistake of my life. I can sit here and try and describe her with a lot of words such as kind, beautiful, caring, etc. but I would probably have a list too long for anyone to read and still not have said everything I want to about her. It came to me the other day that I can easily explain her in one word. Love.
Let me explain.
God amazes me every day. It absolutely blows my mind how he has created things on this earth that help explain who he is and what he has done for us. One thing that has and will continue to make my head explode into a thousand tiny little bits of YOU-WILL-NEVER-UNDERSTAND is marriage. Marriage is so absolutely important to us little humans, even past the actual connection between two people, because it is a metaphor of our connection with Jesus.
Jesus said,"In My Father's house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also." John 14:3
Okay cool, Jesus made a place for me in heaven (old news) what does that have to do with Madea? (what I call Maria) Well, it has a lot to do with her, actually. In the olden days, a man would build a room on the side of his father's house and when it was finished he would go retrieve the woman he would marry and they would both come back and live in that "dwelling place" together. I believe God created marriage to show us how we must view our relationship with him. Therefore, I need to treat Maria with the same amount of love and passion that I should show God. They go hand and hand.
Jesus showed the highest love imaginable when he died in our place. Love comes from Him. I see God in all that Maria does. She is not only a long list of lovely words that I could write about her but she also shows me love that stems from the same love that God created. While I sit and doubt, she is loving me. When I think and ponder for hours about things that don't matter, she is loving me. When I start to go astray in my faith, she is loving me. When I don't put all I have into our relationship and take advantage of how much she does for me, she is loving me.
She is perfect for me and I don't know that I will ever be able to fully show her how much she means to me. We go together like peas and carrots, even if I, the carrot, am ugly and full of rotting gross-ness. I love her. I love her even when I'm not thinking about loving her. She is always in the back on my mind and will always and forever take up all of my heart. I can't help it, she's perfect.
She is love, and she is all I need.
- Spencer
Friday, November 29, 2013
The Big Question
Yesterday, I was asked the big question. "So, what all do you want out of life?" The person asking me this was referring to the time period after I finish my masters, start my job, and marry the love of my life. Unfortunately, I know what this person was expecting me to say. "I would love to have made _____ dollars by the time I am thirty, live in a gorgeous home with a wrap around porch, and be able to take extravagant vacations from time to time."
Well sadly, my answer didn't satisfy this expectation.
I want to be happy.
I know, here Maria goes again being about as cheesy as it could get with her whole love and happiness rant.
I can't sit here and tell you that I want to live on the side of a road someday. No. I absolutely want to be able to live well and support my children to my highest ability. But I will not let my wealth or my family's wealth be based on how many pairs of shoes, gorgeous bags, and fancy cars we do or do not have.
I want to be happy.
Already, at the age of 19, I see such sadness by the "richest" people in this world. Jesus' perfect example of love has shown me what brings you true happiness. He has blessed me with the most beautiful people to constantly put a smile on my face. There is no greater happiness than this.
So, world: take your Mercedes, Jimmy Choos, and Prada bags. I'll keep my slightly run down apartments, pbjs, and Target clothes but most importantly, my happiness.
I hope you all had a lovely thanksgiving. Remember what we should truly be thankful for <3
Well sadly, my answer didn't satisfy this expectation.
I want to be happy.
I know, here Maria goes again being about as cheesy as it could get with her whole love and happiness rant.
I can't sit here and tell you that I want to live on the side of a road someday. No. I absolutely want to be able to live well and support my children to my highest ability. But I will not let my wealth or my family's wealth be based on how many pairs of shoes, gorgeous bags, and fancy cars we do or do not have.
I want to be happy.
Already, at the age of 19, I see such sadness by the "richest" people in this world. Jesus' perfect example of love has shown me what brings you true happiness. He has blessed me with the most beautiful people to constantly put a smile on my face. There is no greater happiness than this.
So, world: take your Mercedes, Jimmy Choos, and Prada bags. I'll keep my slightly run down apartments, pbjs, and Target clothes but most importantly, my happiness.
I hope you all had a lovely thanksgiving. Remember what we should truly be thankful for <3
Thursday, October 24, 2013
Rant Time
Of all the things college has taught me, independence has been the strongest. Yes I drive all around a new town, go grocery shopping, and clean my own apartment which is bonkers in itself. I'm talking about a different kind of independence though. Unfortunately, I only made it out of high school with a handful of close friends, so the thought of making friends in college was always incredibly exciting to me. I kind of depended on my boyfriend way too much in high school so he was worried how I would do in college.
I literally blossomed here. I am surrounded by the silliest/ Christ-filled/ awesome girls I could ask for. I am so much more independent now of my boyfriend and I honestly think that has bettered our relationship so much. We can be apart and know that the other is still loving us just the same. I adore my late night hangouts with my roomies, study sessions, and thursday dinner time with my best friend Abby.
What's the point in this blog? Be your own person. Anyone who knows me understands fully how much Spencer means in my life...but being with him 24/7 is never a concern of mine. It's so great that we can be apart and be fully content in it. I know that we live 10 minutes away now but someday (maybe sooner than we think) he will travel the world playing shows. I have to prepare myself for this day and I think I am ready.
God has turned me into a strong independent woman and honestly I didn't ever know if that would happen. My relationship with Spencer doesn't define who I am, but makes me a better person. My relationship with my friends is the same. So girls: be your own person. Your boyfriend may be "the most amazing one in the world" (trust me I feel this way about Spin) but that does not mean that you shouldn't be able to function without him. Live your life regardless of the circumstances.
This is an excerpt from my favorite poem: John Donne's "A Valediction Forbidding Mourning"
I literally blossomed here. I am surrounded by the silliest/ Christ-filled/ awesome girls I could ask for. I am so much more independent now of my boyfriend and I honestly think that has bettered our relationship so much. We can be apart and know that the other is still loving us just the same. I adore my late night hangouts with my roomies, study sessions, and thursday dinner time with my best friend Abby.
What's the point in this blog? Be your own person. Anyone who knows me understands fully how much Spencer means in my life...but being with him 24/7 is never a concern of mine. It's so great that we can be apart and be fully content in it. I know that we live 10 minutes away now but someday (maybe sooner than we think) he will travel the world playing shows. I have to prepare myself for this day and I think I am ready.
God has turned me into a strong independent woman and honestly I didn't ever know if that would happen. My relationship with Spencer doesn't define who I am, but makes me a better person. My relationship with my friends is the same. So girls: be your own person. Your boyfriend may be "the most amazing one in the world" (trust me I feel this way about Spin) but that does not mean that you shouldn't be able to function without him. Live your life regardless of the circumstances.
This is an excerpt from my favorite poem: John Donne's "A Valediction Forbidding Mourning"
Our two souls therefore, which are one,
Though I must go, endure not yet
A breach, but an expansion,
Like gold to aery thinness beat.
Though I must go, endure not yet
A breach, but an expansion,
Like gold to aery thinness beat.
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Overwhelmed by an Unexplainable God
Literally sitting here on my bed contemplating life tonight. Wondering how I went from a teenager lukewarm-excited about life to an adult ecstatic about it. Confused as to how I found this crazy, humble, hard-working, godly man so young who continues to push me to my highest excellence and drag me around the state (soon to be country) to pursue his dream (even though I love every second of it). In awe at how dance has made an appearance on my journey again in a way I never really imagined. Amazed at the children God has brought into my life to show me that he wants me working with them forever but also trying to save them from bad situations or not being born in the first place. I'm just overwhelmed ya'll. Thank you Jesus for showing me new passions every day. My heart is bursting for you and I cannot wait to see what new/exciting/crazy thing you have planned next.
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
The Greatest Sum
My sweetheart and I have been dating for three years now. When I look back on who I was then and who I am now, I cannot believe how long ago that was. This being said, I also feel like time has flown by. We were 16 when we met. Now we are 19 but he is about to turn 20. I find myself constantly looking at Facebook or Instagram and seeing these "kids" as I see them in serious relationships; it's shocking to think I was that age when I met Spencer.
This being said, I just needed to get my thoughts out somehow about this man that turned up in my life so unexpectedly. Spencer and I were so far away when we met and it's insane how 3 weeks later, I had the strongest gut feeling in my life about him. (We truly only knew each other a week before we started dating). He was my backbone through my last two years of high school and has been there to celebrate my success in college as have I with him. Sometimes I just become so overwhelmed and almost confused as to how my life has ended up this way. I have no idea how I'm so blessed.
Spencer and I have somehow been able to grow separately and together through 3 years of teenage/young adult dating. He has seen me break out of my shell and make incredible friends and I have seen his talent in music grow so immensely and his success grow as well. Together, we have realized that this is a once in a lifetime love and we need to treat it like that every second of every day. We have become much more serious in college just in the way we think about our love and work on it constantly.
So here we are, about to start our Sophomore year of college each with our own apartment/townhouse with close friends. I have no idea how 3 years has gone by so quickly. I am so happy to be back in the Burg with Spencer and learn more about his heart and soul everyday. I look forward to the laughs and hopefully few or only happy tears to be shed. I look forward to the stressful days that will be combatted with some netflix or dinner date time together. I look forward to actually becoming adults and dealing with real adult issues someday. I look forward to being able to look to you for support always.
Wherever life takes me, Spencer, I want it to be with you because you truly are my heart and soul. I love you darling! Happy 3 years. You've made them more than amazing <3
This being said, I just needed to get my thoughts out somehow about this man that turned up in my life so unexpectedly. Spencer and I were so far away when we met and it's insane how 3 weeks later, I had the strongest gut feeling in my life about him. (We truly only knew each other a week before we started dating). He was my backbone through my last two years of high school and has been there to celebrate my success in college as have I with him. Sometimes I just become so overwhelmed and almost confused as to how my life has ended up this way. I have no idea how I'm so blessed.
Spencer and I have somehow been able to grow separately and together through 3 years of teenage/young adult dating. He has seen me break out of my shell and make incredible friends and I have seen his talent in music grow so immensely and his success grow as well. Together, we have realized that this is a once in a lifetime love and we need to treat it like that every second of every day. We have become much more serious in college just in the way we think about our love and work on it constantly.
So here we are, about to start our Sophomore year of college each with our own apartment/townhouse with close friends. I have no idea how 3 years has gone by so quickly. I am so happy to be back in the Burg with Spencer and learn more about his heart and soul everyday. I look forward to the laughs and hopefully few or only happy tears to be shed. I look forward to the stressful days that will be combatted with some netflix or dinner date time together. I look forward to actually becoming adults and dealing with real adult issues someday. I look forward to being able to look to you for support always.
Wherever life takes me, Spencer, I want it to be with you because you truly are my heart and soul. I love you darling! Happy 3 years. You've made them more than amazing <3
Thursday, July 25, 2013
Inspired Beyond Belief
Hello all,
It has been almost 2 months since I blogged. This "summer vacation" has not been a vacation at all. Thankfully I am going to the beach at 7 am tomorrow morning. Horray for a real vacation. Tonight, though, my restless heart and mind are beyond inspired and I would like to share with you the reasoning for feeling this way.
I just finished watching the most amazing documentary, "Happy" on Netflix. It travels around the world to talk to people about what makes them happy. It also dives deep into the science of one feeling happy. This interests me beyond belief. The best part of this documentary, though, would have to be the fact that the happiest people had so little material belongings. Hypocritically so, I have way too many material things. My parents have created a very stable life for us. When I become a teacher, though, with probably a musician for a husband, money most likely won't come easy to me. This brings me to my next point...
My job is so absolutely incredible. I honestly do not care how much money I make. As long as I have the basic necessities and a lot of love, I will be fine. I cannot get over how deeply in love I have fallen with all of my children. Frankly, I don't know how I'm going to get through this week without seeing them and I will soon have to go many months. Children are angels; there is no doubt about it. Anyone who thinks differently in my mind honestly is ignorant and stupid. When I can make a baby smile, a two year old laugh, or a 3-5 year old say they love me; my life is perfect. Whatever God has in store for my future, if I am surrounded by his newest angels, I will be happy. Lord only knows how I'm going to handle having my own kids some day... I have no idea how I will ever let them out of my sight.
This summer has been so life-changing. From my job, to realizing how many amazing friends I made in college, to watching my boyfriend's music career begin to flourish; I have been blessed beyond reason. I never finished the book "Crazy Love" by Francis Chan but I plan to at the beach this week. I cannot wait to dive into Your word and dwell on Your amazing glory while being at one of my favorite places on Earth with my family, soulmate, and soulmate family. I honestly cannot thank You enough Lord. I have no idea why You continuously bless me so, but I promise that I will live my life always to Your glory.
"My life is a loan given from God, but I will give this loan back with interest." -"Happy" <3
It has been almost 2 months since I blogged. This "summer vacation" has not been a vacation at all. Thankfully I am going to the beach at 7 am tomorrow morning. Horray for a real vacation. Tonight, though, my restless heart and mind are beyond inspired and I would like to share with you the reasoning for feeling this way.
I just finished watching the most amazing documentary, "Happy" on Netflix. It travels around the world to talk to people about what makes them happy. It also dives deep into the science of one feeling happy. This interests me beyond belief. The best part of this documentary, though, would have to be the fact that the happiest people had so little material belongings. Hypocritically so, I have way too many material things. My parents have created a very stable life for us. When I become a teacher, though, with probably a musician for a husband, money most likely won't come easy to me. This brings me to my next point...
My job is so absolutely incredible. I honestly do not care how much money I make. As long as I have the basic necessities and a lot of love, I will be fine. I cannot get over how deeply in love I have fallen with all of my children. Frankly, I don't know how I'm going to get through this week without seeing them and I will soon have to go many months. Children are angels; there is no doubt about it. Anyone who thinks differently in my mind honestly is ignorant and stupid. When I can make a baby smile, a two year old laugh, or a 3-5 year old say they love me; my life is perfect. Whatever God has in store for my future, if I am surrounded by his newest angels, I will be happy. Lord only knows how I'm going to handle having my own kids some day... I have no idea how I will ever let them out of my sight.
This summer has been so life-changing. From my job, to realizing how many amazing friends I made in college, to watching my boyfriend's music career begin to flourish; I have been blessed beyond reason. I never finished the book "Crazy Love" by Francis Chan but I plan to at the beach this week. I cannot wait to dive into Your word and dwell on Your amazing glory while being at one of my favorite places on Earth with my family, soulmate, and soulmate family. I honestly cannot thank You enough Lord. I have no idea why You continuously bless me so, but I promise that I will live my life always to Your glory.
"My life is a loan given from God, but I will give this loan back with interest." -"Happy" <3
Friday, May 31, 2013
God's Miraculous Timing and Plans
Hello again bloggers(:
I've been so busy lately since I've been home from school. I started my new job at a daycare and that enough has been exhausting. Also, I've been seeing friends, dancing, and trying to relax somewhere in between. I figured I should somehow get out all of my thoughts about these past two weeks in an organized manor...
First, work is exhausting guys. I know I sound ridiculous saying that because many of you have experienced that forever. I work at a daycare and taking care of babies almost all day has knocked me on my bum. I sometimes have to push myself through the day which is something I wasn't really expecting. In the hardest of times though, when everyone's crying and fussy, I have to remind myself why I am there. I am there to love those kids unconditionally and no matter what! I am there to learn from God's recent creation on how to look at the world! This is getting me through and thankfully it is enough right now.
Also, I'm getting to dance again. Praise you Lord for giving me the opportunity because I never thought I would again have it. Dancing with my studio again is such a blessing; I cannot even explain it to you all. I'm thinking about trying out for some kind of team at college next semester because let's face it, I'm honestly not complete without dance. I pray that the Lord leads me through the search again for a way to dance.
Finally, I've been thinking a lot about the blessing of my college. A very dear friend of mine is transferring schools and I've found it very hard to stay unbiased through this bc I just want him to come to my school. I really feel that my school is the best place. The school spirit, the friends, the overall feeling it has is amazing. I'm literally obsessed with it and I have been missing it way more being home than I thought I would. I pray that everyone finds some experience like I have had at my college. I may not go out every night or be involved in every organization, but I feel like such a part of the community and let's face it, I'm so happy. My school gives me a feeling only three other things have before: Christ, Dance, and The Love of My Life. This feeling is passion and unconditional love. My school never fails me.
So here I go again, blogging because I feel a little overwhelmed and coming out of it feeling so blessed and thankful. Honestly Lord I don't know how you led me to where I am today or why I deserve it but please know I am so thankful for it. This blog is just a testament to God's plan because at one point in time, I had no idea all of these things would happen and they caused a rather major amount of stress in my life.
I will leave you all with some verses about God's plan for us
"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." Jeremiah 1:5
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11
If you are stuck in a confusing time, trust in him. Ecclesiastes 3:11 says "He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end." You rock Lord.
I've been so busy lately since I've been home from school. I started my new job at a daycare and that enough has been exhausting. Also, I've been seeing friends, dancing, and trying to relax somewhere in between. I figured I should somehow get out all of my thoughts about these past two weeks in an organized manor...
First, work is exhausting guys. I know I sound ridiculous saying that because many of you have experienced that forever. I work at a daycare and taking care of babies almost all day has knocked me on my bum. I sometimes have to push myself through the day which is something I wasn't really expecting. In the hardest of times though, when everyone's crying and fussy, I have to remind myself why I am there. I am there to love those kids unconditionally and no matter what! I am there to learn from God's recent creation on how to look at the world! This is getting me through and thankfully it is enough right now.
Also, I'm getting to dance again. Praise you Lord for giving me the opportunity because I never thought I would again have it. Dancing with my studio again is such a blessing; I cannot even explain it to you all. I'm thinking about trying out for some kind of team at college next semester because let's face it, I'm honestly not complete without dance. I pray that the Lord leads me through the search again for a way to dance.
Finally, I've been thinking a lot about the blessing of my college. A very dear friend of mine is transferring schools and I've found it very hard to stay unbiased through this bc I just want him to come to my school. I really feel that my school is the best place. The school spirit, the friends, the overall feeling it has is amazing. I'm literally obsessed with it and I have been missing it way more being home than I thought I would. I pray that everyone finds some experience like I have had at my college. I may not go out every night or be involved in every organization, but I feel like such a part of the community and let's face it, I'm so happy. My school gives me a feeling only three other things have before: Christ, Dance, and The Love of My Life. This feeling is passion and unconditional love. My school never fails me.
So here I go again, blogging because I feel a little overwhelmed and coming out of it feeling so blessed and thankful. Honestly Lord I don't know how you led me to where I am today or why I deserve it but please know I am so thankful for it. This blog is just a testament to God's plan because at one point in time, I had no idea all of these things would happen and they caused a rather major amount of stress in my life.
I will leave you all with some verses about God's plan for us
"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." Jeremiah 1:5
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11
If you are stuck in a confusing time, trust in him. Ecclesiastes 3:11 says "He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end." You rock Lord.
Friday, May 10, 2013
Sirach 6:14
"A faithful friend is a sturdy shelter; he who finds one finds a treasure." Sirach 6:14
This blog post is completely dedicated to the treasures/friendships I have found and built upon my first year in college.
First off: The Girls
Hanna, I could not have asked for a better roommate/friend. The late night talks we have had about Jesus truly show how blessed I am to have found you. Even though I'm a grandma and you're nocturnal; I've enjoyed every second of being your roommate.
Jessie, You're a mess. I love laughing at you hysterically whether it be because of your weird voices, inability to know song lyrics, or the silly comments you make. I'm so glad Jessica Dagata came up to my room the first few days of college because I can't imagine being here without you.
Billie Anne, I apologize for all the times I've called you Billie...even though I can't promise it won't happen again;) I'm completely obsessed with your sweet little voice but also your large heart for Jesus. I truly have enjoyed watching you and our friendship become stronger over the year.
Caylin, My very favorite dance partner. It's so crazy that God gave us such a blessing as to come to college together. I'm so proud to say you're still one of my best friends and we have been able to create such an amazing friend group together. You'll always be my sister.
^^^^^^^^^P.S: Cannot wait to live with you all next year <3 I love you more than words can say!
Abby, Aka: A Grib. I still am mad at myself for not becoming friends with you sooner. I cannot even tell you how much your insanely weird and random sense of humor has brightened my life. Besides that, you're also one of the most loving people I know. You're literally perfect to me.
Ashley, My inspirational High Tech. Your high pitched laugh literally makes me so happy. I've enjoyed watching you grow in your talent this year and getting to know you. I'm so blessed to have you by my side and I know that will continue next year as well as the future. P.S: From our first conversation about dance, I know you'd be one of my best friends here.
And who could forget: The Boys
Michael, Thank you for being my boyfriend's best friend. From the first time we hung out, I knew you were going to be an important part in Spin's and my life. You're one of the funniest bust also most loving guys I know. You have been the best roommate to Spencer and an incredible friend to me.
Andrew, Spin's partner in crime. I could not believe it when Spencer told me the guy beside him loved the Avett Brothers and played the banjo. I knew God planned for you guys to meet. Thanks for accompanying Spencer in his musical journey. Also, thanks for being the sweetest guy I know. You ALWAYS put a smile on my face!
Kenny, The baby goat. Thanks as well for being one of Spencer's best friends. I love your voice and am still waiting for my lullaby CD;) Thanks for making me tea when I'm sick and having randomly deep conversations with me. I'm sad you aren't going to be 5 minutes away next year ):
Spin, I kinda like you. I've enjoyed more than anything watching us grow separately and together this year. I cannot even explain to you what a blessing it is to have you here at my dream school with me. I also am so proud of you finding your niche in music this year. God has blessed you so much with an incredible group of friends and musicians. You know how much you mean to me, so I'll leave it at that :D
The biggest blessing of all is that these are only a few of the friends I've made here. I am so so happy to have met people who love each other and the Lord. All of these people constantly bring me up when I'm feeling down. I cannot wait to see how our friendships continue to grow over the next 3-4 years <3 Love you with all my heart!
This blog post is completely dedicated to the treasures/friendships I have found and built upon my first year in college.
First off: The Girls
Hanna, I could not have asked for a better roommate/friend. The late night talks we have had about Jesus truly show how blessed I am to have found you. Even though I'm a grandma and you're nocturnal; I've enjoyed every second of being your roommate.
Jessie, You're a mess. I love laughing at you hysterically whether it be because of your weird voices, inability to know song lyrics, or the silly comments you make. I'm so glad Jessica Dagata came up to my room the first few days of college because I can't imagine being here without you.
Billie Anne, I apologize for all the times I've called you Billie...even though I can't promise it won't happen again;) I'm completely obsessed with your sweet little voice but also your large heart for Jesus. I truly have enjoyed watching you and our friendship become stronger over the year.
Caylin, My very favorite dance partner. It's so crazy that God gave us such a blessing as to come to college together. I'm so proud to say you're still one of my best friends and we have been able to create such an amazing friend group together. You'll always be my sister.
^^^^^^^^^P.S: Cannot wait to live with you all next year <3 I love you more than words can say!
Abby, Aka: A Grib. I still am mad at myself for not becoming friends with you sooner. I cannot even tell you how much your insanely weird and random sense of humor has brightened my life. Besides that, you're also one of the most loving people I know. You're literally perfect to me.
Ashley, My inspirational High Tech. Your high pitched laugh literally makes me so happy. I've enjoyed watching you grow in your talent this year and getting to know you. I'm so blessed to have you by my side and I know that will continue next year as well as the future. P.S: From our first conversation about dance, I know you'd be one of my best friends here.
And who could forget: The Boys
Michael, Thank you for being my boyfriend's best friend. From the first time we hung out, I knew you were going to be an important part in Spin's and my life. You're one of the funniest bust also most loving guys I know. You have been the best roommate to Spencer and an incredible friend to me.
Andrew, Spin's partner in crime. I could not believe it when Spencer told me the guy beside him loved the Avett Brothers and played the banjo. I knew God planned for you guys to meet. Thanks for accompanying Spencer in his musical journey. Also, thanks for being the sweetest guy I know. You ALWAYS put a smile on my face!
Kenny, The baby goat. Thanks as well for being one of Spencer's best friends. I love your voice and am still waiting for my lullaby CD;) Thanks for making me tea when I'm sick and having randomly deep conversations with me. I'm sad you aren't going to be 5 minutes away next year ):
Spin, I kinda like you. I've enjoyed more than anything watching us grow separately and together this year. I cannot even explain to you what a blessing it is to have you here at my dream school with me. I also am so proud of you finding your niche in music this year. God has blessed you so much with an incredible group of friends and musicians. You know how much you mean to me, so I'll leave it at that :D
The biggest blessing of all is that these are only a few of the friends I've made here. I am so so happy to have met people who love each other and the Lord. All of these people constantly bring me up when I'm feeling down. I cannot wait to see how our friendships continue to grow over the next 3-4 years <3 Love you with all my heart!
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Let the Children Come to Me
So, nothing crazy new has really been happening lately. I did get the opportunity to go to my friend's lake house with her whole family and my other close friend last weekend and we had a BLAST! It was so nice to be able to get away from school for a weekend and relax, even though it was super hard coming back to school because I felt like I was on vacation. Friday I'm shadowing for a hopeful daycare job and I could not be more ecstatic about the opportunity. Those that know me also know that children are my heart and soul. I cannot wait for the opportunity to get to teach them and learn from them everyday! Luke 18:17 says "Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will truly not enter it."
I love the way in which children view the world. They are so innocent and trustworthy. If we come to God in our lives the way children come to him, we would have the best faith around. Children don't ask questions, they just believe. I adore children for this reason. I also adore their innocence and care-free lifestyle. We get so caught up in this world and obviously it's understandable. Between school, family, friends, work, faith, and everything else in life, it's hard to manage things. I pray that by spending my time with children this summer I will not only learn how to be an incredible teacher and mother, but also person.
I guess my message for this blog is just to relax and be like a child. It's often frowned upon to act child-like in society, but I think it's great. Be happy, trust, go out on a limb, and relax. With finals coming up, many of us need to hear this message I think. Oh, and if you find it hard to channel your inner kid...a trip to a beautiful lake house will always do ;) Hope everyone's weeks are going great! All my love.
I love the way in which children view the world. They are so innocent and trustworthy. If we come to God in our lives the way children come to him, we would have the best faith around. Children don't ask questions, they just believe. I adore children for this reason. I also adore their innocence and care-free lifestyle. We get so caught up in this world and obviously it's understandable. Between school, family, friends, work, faith, and everything else in life, it's hard to manage things. I pray that by spending my time with children this summer I will not only learn how to be an incredible teacher and mother, but also person.
I guess my message for this blog is just to relax and be like a child. It's often frowned upon to act child-like in society, but I think it's great. Be happy, trust, go out on a limb, and relax. With finals coming up, many of us need to hear this message I think. Oh, and if you find it hard to channel your inner kid...a trip to a beautiful lake house will always do ;) Hope everyone's weeks are going great! All my love.
Monday, April 22, 2013
Back on My Feet (:
Well, this time last week I was feeling so beaten down and overwhelmed. Somehow, the Lord has put a new pep in my step and picked me off my feet again. I've found myself thinking a lot lately about how much my life has changed in a year. This time last year, I was praying I could get through proms, AP exams, senior speeches, and my senior dance recital. Now, I'm pushing through the tail end of my first year in college...where has the time gone?!?!
I have literally changed so much this year; sometimes I look at myself and think who is this girl...but in a good way. I have first off learned so so much this year academically, spiritually, and internally. I have been bombarded with new information but thankfully I adore being an HD major so everything has been incredibly interesting to me. My faith has been strengthened in a way I never thought it could. My bible study has challenged me to dig so much deeper into the word of God and it has done nothing but good things in my life. Also, I feel like I'm a grown up. This sounds really cliche and such, but I've always been kind of childish. Not in the maturity sense, but just in the sense that I'm kind of innocent and giddy all of the time. Now, I find myself job searching and planning out the next 4 years of my life. Where has the time gone?!?!
I have also had the blessing of coming to college with my boyfriend/ best friend of over two and a half years. I cannot explain how incredible this has been for me. I've gotten home sick, had so many stressful times, and friendship issues and he has been there EVERY DAY to hold me and calm me down. Being this close to each other has also made our relationship grow so much stronger! Since we are kind of growing up, we have started to think more about our future together. Most people would see this as terrifying, but thinking about spending our life together is the most beautiful dream/thought I've ever had. It's insane to think that the prince charming I dreamed of since I was little has come to me SO SOON in the form of an insanely goofy, intelligent, faith-filled, musically-talented, handsome-beyond-belief man. Where has the time gone?!?!
Anyways, this year has been incredible. I'm so blessed to be at my school and so blessed to be so close to home. The main thing I've learned this year is that my family is my heart and soul! I see my parents almost every week and when I don't, it really sucks... My mom and dad are my best friends and I greatly look forward to seeing them every time I can. I remember when I was a dumb teenager and thought my parents were SO overbearing and protective for no reason...I could not have been more wrong. Where has the time gone?!?! I don't know honestly, but every second I get to spend on this Earth around these incredible people God has blessed me with makes all the hard times worthwhile. Thanks for being in my life y'all <3
I have literally changed so much this year; sometimes I look at myself and think who is this girl...but in a good way. I have first off learned so so much this year academically, spiritually, and internally. I have been bombarded with new information but thankfully I adore being an HD major so everything has been incredibly interesting to me. My faith has been strengthened in a way I never thought it could. My bible study has challenged me to dig so much deeper into the word of God and it has done nothing but good things in my life. Also, I feel like I'm a grown up. This sounds really cliche and such, but I've always been kind of childish. Not in the maturity sense, but just in the sense that I'm kind of innocent and giddy all of the time. Now, I find myself job searching and planning out the next 4 years of my life. Where has the time gone?!?!
I have also had the blessing of coming to college with my boyfriend/ best friend of over two and a half years. I cannot explain how incredible this has been for me. I've gotten home sick, had so many stressful times, and friendship issues and he has been there EVERY DAY to hold me and calm me down. Being this close to each other has also made our relationship grow so much stronger! Since we are kind of growing up, we have started to think more about our future together. Most people would see this as terrifying, but thinking about spending our life together is the most beautiful dream/thought I've ever had. It's insane to think that the prince charming I dreamed of since I was little has come to me SO SOON in the form of an insanely goofy, intelligent, faith-filled, musically-talented, handsome-beyond-belief man. Where has the time gone?!?!
Anyways, this year has been incredible. I'm so blessed to be at my school and so blessed to be so close to home. The main thing I've learned this year is that my family is my heart and soul! I see my parents almost every week and when I don't, it really sucks... My mom and dad are my best friends and I greatly look forward to seeing them every time I can. I remember when I was a dumb teenager and thought my parents were SO overbearing and protective for no reason...I could not have been more wrong. Where has the time gone?!?! I don't know honestly, but every second I get to spend on this Earth around these incredible people God has blessed me with makes all the hard times worthwhile. Thanks for being in my life y'all <3
Monday, April 15, 2013
Incredibly Confused but Relying on Him
I am writing my first blog post today with the thought that it might help me along this journey called life. Today was a very devastating day in America. The Boston Marathon runners were met at the finish line with 3 bombs, and at this moment 3 have been killed. My heart is heavy as I think of 6 years ago tomorrow, as well, when the Virginia Tech shootings occurred. I don't know how to comprehend this world...
I find myself turning to the Lord most in times like these even though I shouldn't; I should turn to him constantly. I ask questions, I don't understand, I strive for answers. The answer is always the same with him, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11: 28-30 Still I don't know how to comprehend this world...
I guess all you can do is follow this verse. Evil and darkness will always be in the world and unfortunately it seems to be increasing day by day. Martin Luther King Jr said "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that." This is where I come in. As a Christian, I believe most all things the bible tells me. This can get me into political debates and keep people away from my religion. Lately, though, I've tried to focus on one thing: love; what the world seems to be lacking is love and again I don't know how to comprehend this world...
But I do comprehend the world of the Lord and the WORD of the Lord. Jesus preached love above all else. What the world needs now is love. So next time you start into that political debate or religious argument, don't. Take a step back. The person you are talking to will probably not be changed by your ideas, so take a step back and simply love. I do not comprehend this world...but I do comprehend the world that awaits me when all of this pain and sorrow will be no more. I love you Lord.
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