Day 310 Came home from the wedding weekend and committed to typing up all of my realizations about wedding planning and wedding details so that I would remember them for the day I get married.
Day 311 A friend showed up in the morning to go walking (miscommunication) and we ended up chatting in my livingroom. When she mentioned wanting to go see a matinee movie I seized the moment, and a few hours later left the theater totally inspired to follow my heart about a career change.
Day 312 Claimed my sister's birthday over ministry, and the worship pastor was very supportive and understanding about it. I also emailed the Chris Tomlin website and asked how to send them songs I've written for him to consider using. You never know unless you try, right?
Day 313 Went to Kohl's to buy a slip so that I was "safe" when singing under the stage lights for worship team. Ladies--a slip. I haven't worn one since I was a little girl! I found myself standing infront of a wall of choices, not sure what material, cut, etc. was the best. Another customer came around the corner and began sifting through them too. After a few seconds, I decided to just go for it. So I introduced myself and asked her for her opinion/help. She opened right up with advice, memories of slips from the "old days" when she first wore them, etc. I couldn't helping smiling as I went to make my purchase.
Day 314 Camping with the family--I was the only one that chose to "rough it" in a tent! With the "zero percent chance of rain" forecast, I didn't think to ask for a tarp to go with the tent I borrowed from my brother. At 2:00am I woke up to sprinkles bouncing on my face through the top of the tent. Got creative: snuck out and grabbed the water-proof picnic table tablecloth and the clamps that held it in place and monkeyed together a tarp to cover my tent. A few hours later I awoke to the sound of pouring rain. My sister kept calling me from the camper to see if I wanted to join them, but I was determined. It wasn't until the third time, when I awoke to loud thunder and lightning and a water in the corners of my tent that I had to retreat to the camper. The four of us (my sister, brother-in-law, their wheaton terrier, and me) slept like sardines in the air conditioning of the tiny, two-person camper until morning.
Day 315 Tonight I felt very rejected by a friend that I just wanted to spend time with. I drove home, the sadness turning to bitterness. Claimed the conversation: prayed first, called them, and the Lord totally helped me communicate it calmly. After talking through it, the burden was lifted and it no longer boiled in me, ruining my Saturday night. I enjoyed the rest of the evening at peace in my little apartment.
Day 316 Remember how I emailed the worship pastor one of the songs I've written, as he's looking for new music to use in church? Well, I never heard back from him. Today I decided to "try, try again." This time, I actually sent him a song just for some basic feedback on if the tune sounded original to him, not to see if he wanted to use it. Don't give up, right?!
Lesson: only you can choose to live your life
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Friday, June 25, 2010
School's Out! Part 3
Day 303 Had plans to meet at Starbucks with a new friend from choir. Wanted to be selfish and just do my own thing during the afternoon, and was under spiritual attack about getting together with her for some reason. I took time to worship and get out of my bad mood; we had such a good time, and a very encouraging, bonding conversation about life, struggles, choir, our calling, and the Lord! I'm so glad I went!!
Day 304 Today I finally checked off a three-year goal from my mental "To Do" list; I visited our local public library (known as the best library in the United States) and got a library card!!
Day 305 Since last summer when I discovered our local beach/pool I wanted to get a summer pass, but whenever it came to mind I either didn't have the time or didn't have the money. Today I had both, purchased my much-awaited pass, and enjoyed the afternoon lounging poolside with some girl friends.
Day 306 This weekend is the big wedding!! Today the bride called to see if I could come a day early, meaning TODAY, and help her move into her new apartment. Claimed it, enjoyed it! It was fun to have some time alone with the bride, see their new place, and just be there for her and her husband-to-be.
Day 307 Girls can be catty. At the bachelorette party today I had to remind myself that a particular girl was 10 years younger than me and to just be the bigger person. Slowly, kindness won out.
Day 308 Day before the wedding! The bride had planned to be baptised in water at NOON. I was tired, feeling lazy, and just exhausted from the run around. I honestly wanted to just stay home (well, at the apartment of the friend I was staying with) and just relax. I thought about the future and how I knew I'd look back and regret it if I wasn't there for such an important event. I got to meet so many of their friends and family that I've heard about all these years, and the presence of the Lord was so strong! They asked me to lead everyone in worship, and then the bride tearfully read a Psalm and expressed her love for Jesus. I was so proud of her and her fiance (I was their youth group mentor through jr. high and high school) and so glad I chose to join her close family and friends in support of her decision to go deeper with Jesus Christ.
Day 309 The WEDDING DAY! The bride and I left at 8:00am to make it downtown Milwaukee for our hear appointments on time. I was really tired from all the planning, running around, and events of the weekend, and prayed for strength for the day. When I went to the restroom, I passed a spa area with inviting cushioned beds with stacks of magazines in the lounge of the spa. It looked so comfortable and the peaceful spa music pulled me in. It'd be okay to use the spa, right? I laid down on the comfy bed, closed my eyes, and escaped into peaceful bliss. Though it was only for about five minutes, I got up rejuvinated and ready for the long day ahead.
Lesson: now's the time--do it!
Day 304 Today I finally checked off a three-year goal from my mental "To Do" list; I visited our local public library (known as the best library in the United States) and got a library card!!
Day 305 Since last summer when I discovered our local beach/pool I wanted to get a summer pass, but whenever it came to mind I either didn't have the time or didn't have the money. Today I had both, purchased my much-awaited pass, and enjoyed the afternoon lounging poolside with some girl friends.
Day 306 This weekend is the big wedding!! Today the bride called to see if I could come a day early, meaning TODAY, and help her move into her new apartment. Claimed it, enjoyed it! It was fun to have some time alone with the bride, see their new place, and just be there for her and her husband-to-be.
Day 307 Girls can be catty. At the bachelorette party today I had to remind myself that a particular girl was 10 years younger than me and to just be the bigger person. Slowly, kindness won out.
Day 308 Day before the wedding! The bride had planned to be baptised in water at NOON. I was tired, feeling lazy, and just exhausted from the run around. I honestly wanted to just stay home (well, at the apartment of the friend I was staying with) and just relax. I thought about the future and how I knew I'd look back and regret it if I wasn't there for such an important event. I got to meet so many of their friends and family that I've heard about all these years, and the presence of the Lord was so strong! They asked me to lead everyone in worship, and then the bride tearfully read a Psalm and expressed her love for Jesus. I was so proud of her and her fiance (I was their youth group mentor through jr. high and high school) and so glad I chose to join her close family and friends in support of her decision to go deeper with Jesus Christ.
Day 309 The WEDDING DAY! The bride and I left at 8:00am to make it downtown Milwaukee for our hear appointments on time. I was really tired from all the planning, running around, and events of the weekend, and prayed for strength for the day. When I went to the restroom, I passed a spa area with inviting cushioned beds with stacks of magazines in the lounge of the spa. It looked so comfortable and the peaceful spa music pulled me in. It'd be okay to use the spa, right? I laid down on the comfy bed, closed my eyes, and escaped into peaceful bliss. Though it was only for about five minutes, I got up rejuvinated and ready for the long day ahead.
Lesson: now's the time--do it!
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
School's Out! Part 2
Day 296 Tonight at our sand volleyball game we were missing a player and for some reason going down to five players totally threw us off; we got demolished by a team that we beat last year! Claim? Choose to not let it put me in a bad mood and definitely NOT let it ruin my night. I'd decided ahead of time to not order any food after the game, but letting go and enjoying a jumbo pretzel (with cheese) and a rootbeer, and chatting with my friends, was just what I needed! It ended up being a fun night!
Day 297 For four years I've been having a lot of problems with my digestion. I've gone to doctors and chiropracters, gotten blood tests and done body cleanses, and still have not found a solution. I recently was told that fiber is extremely important in the process of digestion and got an e-mail from a friend with links to fiber-rich foods. Instead of pushing it off as a "to-do later" task, I decided to actually follow through, read through the articles, and print off the lists of fiber-rich foods. I put them on my refrigerator as a reminder, and also crammed a lot of fiber into my diet today: two fiber bars, two apples, baby carrots, and raisin bran.
Day 298 A few weeks ago I borrowed a captivating book by Nicholas Sparks called "The Choice" from my sister-in-law. It pulled me in immediately, but when I got two-thirds of the way through and things started getting sad, I had to put it down. Life is already sad enough at times; I wanted to escape into bliss, not be weighed down by another tragic story. It sat on my coffee table for the next few weeks, pleading me to read but I couldn't enter that world again. Finally, I decided it was time. Today, I grabbed the book, my hot pink lawn chair, and some ice water, and laid out in my back yard determined to finish it. There were some tears, but they were good tears, and when I closed the book I was inspired to hold onto hope for true love.
Day 299 What is it about reading a book in bed, lit only by the gleam of a flashlight, that brings excitement and a sense of adventure?? Tonight I escaped into the inspiring words of the devotional "The Princess Warrior" before clicking off the flashlight and falling asleep...
Day 300 Tonight at a girl friend's wedding my drink was taken away by the waitress while I was over talking to the bride and groom. I realized it as soon as I returned to the table with my mouth watering for the juicy cherry at the bottom of my glass. I debated for a minute, mustered up some gumption, and then went up to the bartender and explained my "tragic" story; the free drink, with more plump cherries at the bottom, was delicious!
Day 301 New people. New places to go. Today it was to a baseball game party with a girl friend of mine who is involved in a young adult's group at a different church. Didn't want to go, but got myself into the social mindset. This claim didn't work. Although I meet new people and enjoyed some conversation, I left missing the attention and close companionship of a certain someone. How long, Lord?
Day 302 After ruling out the mission trip I'd called the church about (due to finances and the short deadline), I read about a "Steps of Paul" trip and felt pressed to go. I love the life and ministry of Paul, and knew it had to be a prettyh amazing trip. I must admit it felt great driving to the church knowing I was finally attending an informational meeting there (for the past three years there have been meetings I've thought of going to but considered it an inconvenience and instead would head home for a relaxing Sunday afternoon). The meeting was refreshing, inspiring, and motivating. The trip was a cruise through Greece, Turkey, and Italy. I was at least 20-30 years younger than everyone there, but it was exciting to see the vacation the various couples could take due to comfortable financial situations and an open schedule (the two-week trip is in the middle of the school year for me). I left sad for my parents and for myself, but also hopeful at the thought of a bright future.
Lesson: lead your life; don't let it lead you.
Day 297 For four years I've been having a lot of problems with my digestion. I've gone to doctors and chiropracters, gotten blood tests and done body cleanses, and still have not found a solution. I recently was told that fiber is extremely important in the process of digestion and got an e-mail from a friend with links to fiber-rich foods. Instead of pushing it off as a "to-do later" task, I decided to actually follow through, read through the articles, and print off the lists of fiber-rich foods. I put them on my refrigerator as a reminder, and also crammed a lot of fiber into my diet today: two fiber bars, two apples, baby carrots, and raisin bran.
Day 298 A few weeks ago I borrowed a captivating book by Nicholas Sparks called "The Choice" from my sister-in-law. It pulled me in immediately, but when I got two-thirds of the way through and things started getting sad, I had to put it down. Life is already sad enough at times; I wanted to escape into bliss, not be weighed down by another tragic story. It sat on my coffee table for the next few weeks, pleading me to read but I couldn't enter that world again. Finally, I decided it was time. Today, I grabbed the book, my hot pink lawn chair, and some ice water, and laid out in my back yard determined to finish it. There were some tears, but they were good tears, and when I closed the book I was inspired to hold onto hope for true love.
Day 299 What is it about reading a book in bed, lit only by the gleam of a flashlight, that brings excitement and a sense of adventure?? Tonight I escaped into the inspiring words of the devotional "The Princess Warrior" before clicking off the flashlight and falling asleep...
Day 300 Tonight at a girl friend's wedding my drink was taken away by the waitress while I was over talking to the bride and groom. I realized it as soon as I returned to the table with my mouth watering for the juicy cherry at the bottom of my glass. I debated for a minute, mustered up some gumption, and then went up to the bartender and explained my "tragic" story; the free drink, with more plump cherries at the bottom, was delicious!
Day 301 New people. New places to go. Today it was to a baseball game party with a girl friend of mine who is involved in a young adult's group at a different church. Didn't want to go, but got myself into the social mindset. This claim didn't work. Although I meet new people and enjoyed some conversation, I left missing the attention and close companionship of a certain someone. How long, Lord?
Day 302 After ruling out the mission trip I'd called the church about (due to finances and the short deadline), I read about a "Steps of Paul" trip and felt pressed to go. I love the life and ministry of Paul, and knew it had to be a prettyh amazing trip. I must admit it felt great driving to the church knowing I was finally attending an informational meeting there (for the past three years there have been meetings I've thought of going to but considered it an inconvenience and instead would head home for a relaxing Sunday afternoon). The meeting was refreshing, inspiring, and motivating. The trip was a cruise through Greece, Turkey, and Italy. I was at least 20-30 years younger than everyone there, but it was exciting to see the vacation the various couples could take due to comfortable financial situations and an open schedule (the two-week trip is in the middle of the school year for me). I left sad for my parents and for myself, but also hopeful at the thought of a bright future.
Lesson: lead your life; don't let it lead you.
Friday, June 18, 2010
School's Out! Part 1
Day 289 Have you ever tried fresh cherries? Not the sweet ones in the jar, but the real ones? At my brother's grillout today, my sister convinced me to try them (as she recently discovered them). Delicious! I couldn't stop popping them into my mouth! All these years I've been settling for second best.
Day 290 Why does Super Walmart have over 20 registers and only keep four or five lines open at a time?? Does anyone else get totally frustrated about this? Today my patience was being tested, and my perspective was challenged when the young guy infront of me was very patient and friendly with the cashier. It inspired me to change my mood;I chose to pray for him and for the cashier. It helped. A little.
Day 291 Choir practice, still trying to reach out to this particular girl. I must admit I gave up for a while and just gave her space, but tonight I decided to find a way to honestly compliment her. I noticed her toenails were painted a super cute peach color with little white flowers so I threw out the compliment and we talked a little. One step at a time, right?
Day 292 When I read in our church brochure about an upcoming missions trip to Georgia, I thought, "Why not??" I've never gone on one before. Have you? Today I called the church and left a message requesting more info about the trip. We'll see if it works out!!
Day 293 Tonight I was visiting some friends in Milwaukee and when I got back to their house from having dinner with a girl friend, several of their friends (who I've never met) were hanging out in the livingroom, relaxing and chatting. Somehow my passion for worship ministry came up and next thing I knew they were beggin me to sing one of the songs I've written. Usually I don't like performing "on the spot" but with this new journey of claiming, I found myself saying "sure" and I sang a song I'm working on about Psalm 40. I shared a little about the psalm and then sang it, and it really seemed to change the direction of the conversation--soon we were all talking about the Lord and how amazing He is. I guess you never know when God will use you!
Day 294 Today, as the Maid of Honor for an upcoming wedding, I threw a "Pretty in Pink" bridal shower for the bride. None of the bridesmaids could come, so I did almost everything by myself, which you know is quite stressful if you've ever helped with a shower before! I finally had to let go of my stress and frustrated mood--I didn't want it to ruin my day. So, I chose to do something about it instead of giving in to it. I grabbed some worship cd's from my car and blasted the music while I decorated. It took a lot of work to try to pray and thank the Lord, but I tried. Even just singing along helped. Thank you, Lord, for your faithfulness!
Day 295 A new friend from choir was having a grill-out/party today for passing her citizenship interview. I was feeling lazy and selfishly didn't want to go... Lounging around my house sounded more enjoyable for my Sunday afternoon, but I claimed it and had to reclaim it instead of backing out when it started pouring down rain. Praise the Lord that I went! He sent an angel to speak into me the words that I needed, the prayers that I needed, the GRACE that I needed. I left with the reminder that I am so loved by Jesus!
Lesson: when you choose to do actions that go against your mood, your mood will often follow it!
Day 290 Why does Super Walmart have over 20 registers and only keep four or five lines open at a time?? Does anyone else get totally frustrated about this? Today my patience was being tested, and my perspective was challenged when the young guy infront of me was very patient and friendly with the cashier. It inspired me to change my mood;I chose to pray for him and for the cashier. It helped. A little.
Day 291 Choir practice, still trying to reach out to this particular girl. I must admit I gave up for a while and just gave her space, but tonight I decided to find a way to honestly compliment her. I noticed her toenails were painted a super cute peach color with little white flowers so I threw out the compliment and we talked a little. One step at a time, right?
Day 292 When I read in our church brochure about an upcoming missions trip to Georgia, I thought, "Why not??" I've never gone on one before. Have you? Today I called the church and left a message requesting more info about the trip. We'll see if it works out!!
Day 293 Tonight I was visiting some friends in Milwaukee and when I got back to their house from having dinner with a girl friend, several of their friends (who I've never met) were hanging out in the livingroom, relaxing and chatting. Somehow my passion for worship ministry came up and next thing I knew they were beggin me to sing one of the songs I've written. Usually I don't like performing "on the spot" but with this new journey of claiming, I found myself saying "sure" and I sang a song I'm working on about Psalm 40. I shared a little about the psalm and then sang it, and it really seemed to change the direction of the conversation--soon we were all talking about the Lord and how amazing He is. I guess you never know when God will use you!
Day 294 Today, as the Maid of Honor for an upcoming wedding, I threw a "Pretty in Pink" bridal shower for the bride. None of the bridesmaids could come, so I did almost everything by myself, which you know is quite stressful if you've ever helped with a shower before! I finally had to let go of my stress and frustrated mood--I didn't want it to ruin my day. So, I chose to do something about it instead of giving in to it. I grabbed some worship cd's from my car and blasted the music while I decorated. It took a lot of work to try to pray and thank the Lord, but I tried. Even just singing along helped. Thank you, Lord, for your faithfulness!
Day 295 A new friend from choir was having a grill-out/party today for passing her citizenship interview. I was feeling lazy and selfishly didn't want to go... Lounging around my house sounded more enjoyable for my Sunday afternoon, but I claimed it and had to reclaim it instead of backing out when it started pouring down rain. Praise the Lord that I went! He sent an angel to speak into me the words that I needed, the prayers that I needed, the GRACE that I needed. I left with the reminder that I am so loved by Jesus!
Lesson: when you choose to do actions that go against your mood, your mood will often follow it!
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Last Week of School
(May 24-May 30)
Day 281 I live alone. It has its perks. Perfect example: Tonight it was hot, humid, and almost unbearable. Tried something new--spent the evening sitting on my couch, doing school grading, in only my "underclothes." It was, well, freeing to say the least. :)
Day 282 Something totally NEW. Decided to join my church for their monthly outreach to an innercity church on the south side of Chicago. It reminded me a lot of a church someone I'd dated from NYC was involved in, and it drew my heart. We led worship and served food and the Lord encouraged me immensely by using me to reach a 16 yr old African American girl. We'd both gone up front (among others) for an altar call, but I didn't see her until I turned around. As soon as I said something to her, the tears came and she threw her arms around me. She cried and we prayed--she had come up front and given her heart to the Lord! I was able to encourage her, direct her where to read in the Bible, introduce her to the pastor's wife, and introduce myself to a few of the youth group girls and encourage them to go introduce themselves to her (she wasn't a regular church-goer). Before the night was over, I saw one of the girls go over and introduce themselves to her--I couldn't help but smile. I road the bus home excited to be used and inspired for more of Him.
Day 283 Said YES last week when asked by an aquaintance with Asbergers disease if I'd help him study for his upcoming music education exam. We met at the coffee shop at church tonight and went over several of the exam questions; somehow laying my life down for him boosted me. Is Joey's claim on "Friends" true? Is there really no unselfish good deed, since it makes one feel better to do something kind for another?
Day 284 Why is it that the closer I get to 30, the more I feel that my body is just plain OLD? It seems that wrinkles and blemishes are appearing, weight gain is constant, and my cute little shorts from two years ago are no where close to fitting! Today? Go RUNNING. Called up a girl friend instead of going alone, and afterward when she wanted to go for ice cream I said YES (though I really didn't want to since I just ran). That YES opened up a whole personal conversation about hurtful things from her past and present struggles. Thank you Lord for helping me to claim the important things!
Day 285 Last day of school (for students). Claimed a crucial moment to have a heart-to-heart with a 7th grade girl who, earlier in the year, had gotten up infront of the class during a speech and claimed Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. She and some classmates had made a very irresponsible, disrespecful choice that landed them scrubbing, cleaning, dusting, and mopping my classroom for the last hour and a half of school. I dismissed them one-by-one, saving her for last. When I brought up her walk with the Lord and that everything we do is an example of who Christ is, her eyes filled with tears. It turned into a powerful discussion, ending with tears and a hug and a warm up, "Thank you, Miss!"
Day 286 A new friend from choir was having a grill-out/party today for passing her citizenship interview. I was feeling lazy and selfishly didn't want to go... Lounging around my house sounded more enjoyable for my Sunday afternoon, but I claimed it and had to reclaim it instead of backing out when it started pouring down rain. Praise the Lord that I went! He sent an angel to speak into me the words that I needed, the prayers that I needed, the GRACE that I needed. I left with the reminder that I am so loved by Jesus!
Day 287 A lovely Saturday afternoon. Was enjoying using the digital voice recorder that I'd asked for on my birthday last year (life, and the school year, kept me busy enough that it was a year later and I'd hardly used it). I got so excited with the features as I used it to compose that I claimed to share my gratitude! So, I took a moment to call my dad, tell him all about it, and thank him for buying it for me! It felt great to share the moment with someone, and to actually take the time to give a thank-you.
Day 288 My family had a sleepover at my brother and sister-in-laws house today for the holiday weekend. I was all cuddled up on the livingroom recliner, enjoying the comfy blanket and footrest, when my brother took little Noah (my new nephew) out of his baby swing to play with him on the floor. My sister bopped down next to him and asked if I wanted to join them. I was rather comfy and feeling quite lazy, and pushed away the fact that I couldn't see the little guy because my brother's back was blocking my view. A few minutes passed by. I knew I needed to live the moment while I was at their house. Many smiles and cooing came soon after (from me and my sister, not little Noah!) and the feeling was totally worth it!
Lesson: God meets you in your selflessness with a surprise every time
Day 281 I live alone. It has its perks. Perfect example: Tonight it was hot, humid, and almost unbearable. Tried something new--spent the evening sitting on my couch, doing school grading, in only my "underclothes." It was, well, freeing to say the least. :)
Day 282 Something totally NEW. Decided to join my church for their monthly outreach to an innercity church on the south side of Chicago. It reminded me a lot of a church someone I'd dated from NYC was involved in, and it drew my heart. We led worship and served food and the Lord encouraged me immensely by using me to reach a 16 yr old African American girl. We'd both gone up front (among others) for an altar call, but I didn't see her until I turned around. As soon as I said something to her, the tears came and she threw her arms around me. She cried and we prayed--she had come up front and given her heart to the Lord! I was able to encourage her, direct her where to read in the Bible, introduce her to the pastor's wife, and introduce myself to a few of the youth group girls and encourage them to go introduce themselves to her (she wasn't a regular church-goer). Before the night was over, I saw one of the girls go over and introduce themselves to her--I couldn't help but smile. I road the bus home excited to be used and inspired for more of Him.
Day 283 Said YES last week when asked by an aquaintance with Asbergers disease if I'd help him study for his upcoming music education exam. We met at the coffee shop at church tonight and went over several of the exam questions; somehow laying my life down for him boosted me. Is Joey's claim on "Friends" true? Is there really no unselfish good deed, since it makes one feel better to do something kind for another?
Day 284 Why is it that the closer I get to 30, the more I feel that my body is just plain OLD? It seems that wrinkles and blemishes are appearing, weight gain is constant, and my cute little shorts from two years ago are no where close to fitting! Today? Go RUNNING. Called up a girl friend instead of going alone, and afterward when she wanted to go for ice cream I said YES (though I really didn't want to since I just ran). That YES opened up a whole personal conversation about hurtful things from her past and present struggles. Thank you Lord for helping me to claim the important things!
Day 285 Last day of school (for students). Claimed a crucial moment to have a heart-to-heart with a 7th grade girl who, earlier in the year, had gotten up infront of the class during a speech and claimed Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. She and some classmates had made a very irresponsible, disrespecful choice that landed them scrubbing, cleaning, dusting, and mopping my classroom for the last hour and a half of school. I dismissed them one-by-one, saving her for last. When I brought up her walk with the Lord and that everything we do is an example of who Christ is, her eyes filled with tears. It turned into a powerful discussion, ending with tears and a hug and a warm up, "Thank you, Miss!"
Day 286 A new friend from choir was having a grill-out/party today for passing her citizenship interview. I was feeling lazy and selfishly didn't want to go... Lounging around my house sounded more enjoyable for my Sunday afternoon, but I claimed it and had to reclaim it instead of backing out when it started pouring down rain. Praise the Lord that I went! He sent an angel to speak into me the words that I needed, the prayers that I needed, the GRACE that I needed. I left with the reminder that I am so loved by Jesus!
Day 287 A lovely Saturday afternoon. Was enjoying using the digital voice recorder that I'd asked for on my birthday last year (life, and the school year, kept me busy enough that it was a year later and I'd hardly used it). I got so excited with the features as I used it to compose that I claimed to share my gratitude! So, I took a moment to call my dad, tell him all about it, and thank him for buying it for me! It felt great to share the moment with someone, and to actually take the time to give a thank-you.
Day 288 My family had a sleepover at my brother and sister-in-laws house today for the holiday weekend. I was all cuddled up on the livingroom recliner, enjoying the comfy blanket and footrest, when my brother took little Noah (my new nephew) out of his baby swing to play with him on the floor. My sister bopped down next to him and asked if I wanted to join them. I was rather comfy and feeling quite lazy, and pushed away the fact that I couldn't see the little guy because my brother's back was blocking my view. A few minutes passed by. I knew I needed to live the moment while I was at their house. Many smiles and cooing came soon after (from me and my sister, not little Noah!) and the feeling was totally worth it!
Lesson: God meets you in your selflessness with a surprise every time
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Snapshots Part Five
(May 17-May 23)
Day 274 Something NEW. Registed online for my sister and I to attend our church's annual Girlfriends Night Out. The past two years whenever it was advertised at church I always thought it sounded really fun, but I never took the step to go. This year is the year!
Day 275 The middle school I teach at is a Title I school. Little parent involvement. Little student motivation. Our school did an incentive to get kids to class ontime, and today was the reward: an assembly featuring the Jesse White Tumblers!! I had a lot to get done at school and was wanting to just be focussed and productive, but I also knew I could be missing a great experience. So I went down to the gym, sat in the front row, and to be honest, was totally amazed and entertained. Have you ever seen them perform? If not, you should! This was a super fun "first" for me!
Day 276 Tonight at choir practice one of the men asked me how I ended up here in IL. I seized the moment and told him, in detail, how the Lord spoke to me to come, opened the door for my job just in time, made my heart to know He wanted me at this particular church, and what I've learned this far. It opened up a whole conversation that found us standing in the hallway sharing stories of our need and the Lord's faithfulness. I went home with a very grateful heart.
Day 277 Back to my school. The teachers at my schools work very independently; a "team" is not a good description of the atmosphere. Today I was walking by a veteran teacher's classroom (it's just around the corner from mine) and we started chatting about a student we share. He is one of my favorites and is great for me, though he is terrible for all of his other teachers. By terrible I mean really really bad. We talked for a long time, and when I started getting antsy to get back to my errands (it was after school and I just wanted to get done and go home) I had to keep reminding myself of what was more important. Several times. Isn't this what I know our school needs more of? Forty-five minutes later I was back in my room, closing down for the day. I left feeling pleased that I'd made a deeper connection with her.
Day 278 It finally came: "Girlfriends Night Out" at my church. There was over 450 women there! It was a blast introducing my sister to some of the friends I've started to make in choir (we all sat together), and was equally fun watching the pastors' "What Not to Wear" fashion show, the table decorating presentation, and an "easy cooking" demonstration. They had door prizes, and shortly after my sister and I both proclaimed that we never win anything, her raffle ticket number was called! And then, only a minute or two later, my raffle ticket number was called! We left with gifts valued over $75 each from Mario Triccoci!! It almost seemed like God was giving us a thumbs for finally making it to a church event. :) To top it off, the girl from choir that I've been "working on" is warming up, finally! She greeted me with a smile and gave me several compliments on my outfit/jewelry/etc. We all chatted and laughed the night away-the banquet room was completely empty of all decorations, food, and guests by the time we left. What a great night!
Day 279 I woke up to sun streaming through my window and the sound of birds chirping in the nearby tree. Saturday! Claim? Rollerblade! I used to rollerblad all the time, even in college, and a few years ago asked for some really expensive rollerblades for my birthday. I haven't gone in a year or two. Now's the time to get active, and pick up old hobbies. It jump-started my day with energy and excitement for summer. As I whizzed along, I took in "summer" all around me: the smell of freshly cut grass, sounds of birds chirping, vibrant landscapes of beautiful flowers, garages sales (I stopped at one, even on rollerblades!)... When I got home I laid on my bed to do a few stretches, and from that angle as I looked out the window I saw a bird's nest at the very top of my tree. I got up to peak out the window and I couldn't stop the smile luminating my face--the nest was filled with little baby birds and the mom was feeding them! I've never seen such an amazing part of nature! I found myself going back to watch the little family, even in the days following.
Day 280 Went to get a manicure and pedicure (with a guilt-free coupon) and chose to claim the moment by closing my eyes during just relaxing in the massaging chair while getting my pedicure. Just blocking out the surroundings and really appreciating the moment left me refreshed and my body totally calm.
Lesson: appreciate the moment for what it is
Day 274 Something NEW. Registed online for my sister and I to attend our church's annual Girlfriends Night Out. The past two years whenever it was advertised at church I always thought it sounded really fun, but I never took the step to go. This year is the year!
Day 275 The middle school I teach at is a Title I school. Little parent involvement. Little student motivation. Our school did an incentive to get kids to class ontime, and today was the reward: an assembly featuring the Jesse White Tumblers!! I had a lot to get done at school and was wanting to just be focussed and productive, but I also knew I could be missing a great experience. So I went down to the gym, sat in the front row, and to be honest, was totally amazed and entertained. Have you ever seen them perform? If not, you should! This was a super fun "first" for me!
Day 276 Tonight at choir practice one of the men asked me how I ended up here in IL. I seized the moment and told him, in detail, how the Lord spoke to me to come, opened the door for my job just in time, made my heart to know He wanted me at this particular church, and what I've learned this far. It opened up a whole conversation that found us standing in the hallway sharing stories of our need and the Lord's faithfulness. I went home with a very grateful heart.
Day 277 Back to my school. The teachers at my schools work very independently; a "team" is not a good description of the atmosphere. Today I was walking by a veteran teacher's classroom (it's just around the corner from mine) and we started chatting about a student we share. He is one of my favorites and is great for me, though he is terrible for all of his other teachers. By terrible I mean really really bad. We talked for a long time, and when I started getting antsy to get back to my errands (it was after school and I just wanted to get done and go home) I had to keep reminding myself of what was more important. Several times. Isn't this what I know our school needs more of? Forty-five minutes later I was back in my room, closing down for the day. I left feeling pleased that I'd made a deeper connection with her.
Day 278 It finally came: "Girlfriends Night Out" at my church. There was over 450 women there! It was a blast introducing my sister to some of the friends I've started to make in choir (we all sat together), and was equally fun watching the pastors' "What Not to Wear" fashion show, the table decorating presentation, and an "easy cooking" demonstration. They had door prizes, and shortly after my sister and I both proclaimed that we never win anything, her raffle ticket number was called! And then, only a minute or two later, my raffle ticket number was called! We left with gifts valued over $75 each from Mario Triccoci!! It almost seemed like God was giving us a thumbs for finally making it to a church event. :) To top it off, the girl from choir that I've been "working on" is warming up, finally! She greeted me with a smile and gave me several compliments on my outfit/jewelry/etc. We all chatted and laughed the night away-the banquet room was completely empty of all decorations, food, and guests by the time we left. What a great night!
Day 279 I woke up to sun streaming through my window and the sound of birds chirping in the nearby tree. Saturday! Claim? Rollerblade! I used to rollerblad all the time, even in college, and a few years ago asked for some really expensive rollerblades for my birthday. I haven't gone in a year or two. Now's the time to get active, and pick up old hobbies. It jump-started my day with energy and excitement for summer. As I whizzed along, I took in "summer" all around me: the smell of freshly cut grass, sounds of birds chirping, vibrant landscapes of beautiful flowers, garages sales (I stopped at one, even on rollerblades!)... When I got home I laid on my bed to do a few stretches, and from that angle as I looked out the window I saw a bird's nest at the very top of my tree. I got up to peak out the window and I couldn't stop the smile luminating my face--the nest was filled with little baby birds and the mom was feeding them! I've never seen such an amazing part of nature! I found myself going back to watch the little family, even in the days following.
Day 280 Went to get a manicure and pedicure (with a guilt-free coupon) and chose to claim the moment by closing my eyes during just relaxing in the massaging chair while getting my pedicure. Just blocking out the surroundings and really appreciating the moment left me refreshed and my body totally calm.
Lesson: appreciate the moment for what it is
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