Day 345 Said YES when a random volleyball team was missing a female player and asked me to play for their game. It was a blast, and definitely a challenge for my confidence!
Day 346 Standing at my kitchen sink doing dishes, I found myself staring out the window at the gorgeous day. Knowing the summer was quickly ending, I called up a friend to see if she wanted to go canoeing (a summer activity I've wanted to do for the past few summers!). The lake was peaceful and still. Little did I know what chaos was coming the next day!
Day 347 Severe abdominal pain and constant throwing up found me making friends with my bathroom sink. This was the first time in my life (literally) that I'd ever thrown up. After over four hours of trying to survive, I knew I needed to brave my fears and go to the emergency room. Appendicitis landed me in surgery that night and a 24-hour hospital stay. So much for our first big family vacation in 17 years!! We were to leave the following morning.
Day 348 Going home from the hospital, we had go through the drive-through at Walgreens to pick up my medications. The girl in the car next to us had the cutest dog, so when she saw me smiling and pointing, she rolled down her window so I could see him. Claim? Strike up a convo, and ask her what kind of puppy he was! Schnauser.
Day 349 It was two days after my surgery and I was bleeding whenever I went to the bathroom, which hadn't happend before. As directed previously by the nurse, I called the doctor. She was completely rude--talking down to me and interrupting me with an answer before hearing the entire question. In the past, I'd get intimidated in such a situation, accept the limited answers I'd received, and end the conversation. But, during this journey of claiming I'd say I've found a little thing called "gumption." I stood my ground and firmly yet professionally reworded or reasked my questions. Amazingly, I finally got my questions answered and hung up--educated and annoyed.
Day 350 This has been such a refreshing summer--one of growth, healthy habits, and self-discovery. In attempt to hold on to these progress on stepping stones, I decided to make a list of the priorities, habits, and daily decisions I made this summer that brought about such changes. Hopefully, reading it throughout the school year will help me maintain this transformation!
Day 351 Something new: let a guy friend come over and hang out with my mom and me even though the rest of "the group" wasn't available. We had a blast laughing together, sharing stories, and watching "The Bounty Hunter." Praise the Lord for male friendships!
Lesson: Eventually, claiming becomes natural!
Showing posts with label Habits. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Habits. Show all posts
Monday, August 2, 2010
Monday, July 26, 2010
Summer Part 3
Day 338 Time to get all my debt under control! Typed up a list of my smallest debts and came up with a plan of how pay them off A.S.A.P.! I printed it off and put it in a place where I'd see it often to help remind me to be financially responsible and get free!
Day 339 Ever since I joined the church choir, one of the older women who I've become friends with has been inviting me to various art shows/galleries that include her artwork. Today I finally went! When I left, I felt like I'd walked through a journey of my soul. Each artist had included a typed description of the inspiration and process behind their piece, and it brought the artwork alive and left me totally inspired to live and to create. I can't even describe how great it felt to call her on the way home and tell her that I'd just gone to see the exhibit... Maybe it is better to give than to receive!
Day 340 I was beaten down in shame, discouragement, and fear. Tonight at choir the director/pastor stopped rehearsal to give a short message (which he does sometimes); it was all about fear/worry. He read several verses about it and then did something that I haven't ever seen him do. He said, "I want anyone here that is struggling with fear or worry to stand up right now and we're going to pray for you." Without even taking time to think, I jumped to my feet, and noticed I was the first one up. Like a ripple effect, people across the choir started to stand. Tears came as they laid hands on me and prayed. I ended up sharing my struggles with the woman I described above. This whole experience showed me the growth that has come through this journey of claiming--more and more, I am seizing moments without debate or hesitation. I needed this!!!
Day 341 How often have you been driving on a scenic route and just wanted to pull over and take it all in? I'm sure if you're like me, it's been hundreds of times. On my journey home to my parents' today, I decided to take the time to take it in; I'd just driven around a curve to find beautiful green hills and fields on my left, grasses and trees lightly swaying. I pulled the car over to the side of the road, opened my window, and stared, trying to remember that beautiful picture. Though this probably only last five minutes due to the heat pouring in my window, it was enough to enjoy the serenity that only the beautiful outdoors can bring.
Day 342 A rainy, lazy day at my parents house; the perfect opportunity to escape into a good book! I decided to lay there all day, guilt-free, and read without letting myself feel like I was wasting the entire day. This was a big step for me because when I go home I usually feel bad taking time for myself. I must say: This was wonderful! Do this!!
Day 343 Tired. Not feeling social, and especially not feeling like meeting new people and having to make conversation. You know how it is. Tonight I was to go to a birthday party for a new girl friend where I knew I wouldn't know anyone. I was tempted to back out, but knew I needed to claim it and be there for her, especially since there were only going to bve four or five of us there. I ended up having a bonding conversation with a girl there who is also older and single, having digestion/health issues, and dealing with the stresses of major finanical struggles. The Lord encouraged me by using me to encourage her. It was a good reminder that God can and WILL use the struggles we go through for His glory!
Day 344 How many times do we get asked, "How are you?" in a day, and answer with some canned response that totally covers over our true mood or emotional state? And how many times do we ask someone how they're doing and then not really take the time to find out? I was presented with this opportunity this morning at church... Another single girl that I'm getting to know through choir was walking by me, and when I greeted her and asked her how she was, her response did not match the sadness in her face. I stopped walking, and asked, "Are you sure? You don't sound like you're okay." As soon as I said it, her eyes filled with tears and I reached out to hug her. She shared her struggle with loneliness and just feeling really alone. I have been there! I tried to encourage her the best I could and offered my number incase she ever wanted to hang out. Lord, make me more aware of others and give me Your heart for them!!
Lesson: life is about giving your life away
Day 339 Ever since I joined the church choir, one of the older women who I've become friends with has been inviting me to various art shows/galleries that include her artwork. Today I finally went! When I left, I felt like I'd walked through a journey of my soul. Each artist had included a typed description of the inspiration and process behind their piece, and it brought the artwork alive and left me totally inspired to live and to create. I can't even describe how great it felt to call her on the way home and tell her that I'd just gone to see the exhibit... Maybe it is better to give than to receive!
Day 340 I was beaten down in shame, discouragement, and fear. Tonight at choir the director/pastor stopped rehearsal to give a short message (which he does sometimes); it was all about fear/worry. He read several verses about it and then did something that I haven't ever seen him do. He said, "I want anyone here that is struggling with fear or worry to stand up right now and we're going to pray for you." Without even taking time to think, I jumped to my feet, and noticed I was the first one up. Like a ripple effect, people across the choir started to stand. Tears came as they laid hands on me and prayed. I ended up sharing my struggles with the woman I described above. This whole experience showed me the growth that has come through this journey of claiming--more and more, I am seizing moments without debate or hesitation. I needed this!!!
Day 341 How often have you been driving on a scenic route and just wanted to pull over and take it all in? I'm sure if you're like me, it's been hundreds of times. On my journey home to my parents' today, I decided to take the time to take it in; I'd just driven around a curve to find beautiful green hills and fields on my left, grasses and trees lightly swaying. I pulled the car over to the side of the road, opened my window, and stared, trying to remember that beautiful picture. Though this probably only last five minutes due to the heat pouring in my window, it was enough to enjoy the serenity that only the beautiful outdoors can bring.
Day 342 A rainy, lazy day at my parents house; the perfect opportunity to escape into a good book! I decided to lay there all day, guilt-free, and read without letting myself feel like I was wasting the entire day. This was a big step for me because when I go home I usually feel bad taking time for myself. I must say: This was wonderful! Do this!!
Day 343 Tired. Not feeling social, and especially not feeling like meeting new people and having to make conversation. You know how it is. Tonight I was to go to a birthday party for a new girl friend where I knew I wouldn't know anyone. I was tempted to back out, but knew I needed to claim it and be there for her, especially since there were only going to bve four or five of us there. I ended up having a bonding conversation with a girl there who is also older and single, having digestion/health issues, and dealing with the stresses of major finanical struggles. The Lord encouraged me by using me to encourage her. It was a good reminder that God can and WILL use the struggles we go through for His glory!
Day 344 How many times do we get asked, "How are you?" in a day, and answer with some canned response that totally covers over our true mood or emotional state? And how many times do we ask someone how they're doing and then not really take the time to find out? I was presented with this opportunity this morning at church... Another single girl that I'm getting to know through choir was walking by me, and when I greeted her and asked her how she was, her response did not match the sadness in her face. I stopped walking, and asked, "Are you sure? You don't sound like you're okay." As soon as I said it, her eyes filled with tears and I reached out to hug her. She shared her struggle with loneliness and just feeling really alone. I have been there! I tried to encourage her the best I could and offered my number incase she ever wanted to hang out. Lord, make me more aware of others and give me Your heart for them!!
Lesson: life is about giving your life away
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
The Abyss Part 4 (Days 223-229)
Day 223: Today while visiting my parents I read an entire book in one sitting--I started it in bed and didn't put it down until I finished it at 1:00am; What a wonderful escape! It was fun to find adventure, suspense, and romance in a novel again.
Day 224: My parents didn't have a lot of money was I was little, so we always had to take super short showers (Yes, my dad would time us!). My parents no longer have to worry about this, but when I'm home sometimes I still put guilt on myself if my shower seems too long. Today, still fighting a temperature and achiness, I decided to take a long shower even thought I was at my parents and just enjoy it. It felt so good!
Day 225: I don't like confrontation. By now, you know this! Today at Kohl's I found an adorable decor pillow for my couch in the exact color and style I've been looking for. Knowing it would complete my search, and noticing that it was on the "super discount" shelf, I grabbed it. As I made my way to the counter, I noticed the price was not adjusted on the red tag on the pillow, I mustered up the guts to explain where I'd found it and ask for a deal. When the cashier typed in a 50% discount, I took a deep breath and reminded her that I'd found it on the 75-80% off shelf and that it had a tiny stain on the corner. She pused a few buttons and said, "Your total is $6.78" I couldn't believe it! It was a $30 pillow. I left for home swelling with joy and pride that I DID IT! I took a chance and got a GREAT deal!
Day 226: Today a girl friend invited me to go get pedicures with her and some of her friends, and after double checking with her that the price would not be over $20, I told her to count me in. My claim came after my toenails were a beautiful fucia color and my friend, who had just paid for her, said "I'm sorry--I guess it's $30!". Stress. I felt a tigthening in my heart. I had told her that I had a coupon at home for another spa that got me a pedicure AND manicure for a total of $30 and she reassured me that the price would be $20. I took a few deep breaths and claimed a stress-free perspective. And, when she wanted me to join them for breakfast I decided to lay down my penny pinching for the sake of fellowship and getting to know her friends. We shared our some of our testimonies and life stories over breakfast. Thank you, Lord, for helping us see things in a balanced perspective!
Day 227: I love nature. Today I finally made it to the store and bought a hard-core bird feeder for the blossoming tree outside my kitchen window. I filled it and waited expectantly for my first visitors.
Day 228: Somtimes it's hard to be vulnerable. Tonight I had dear friends come visit from Milwaukee--a couple that I haven't seen in almost a year! Sitting across the patio table at one of my favorite restaurants, a moment of truth came up. I knew I needed to be honest and vulnerable about where I'm at with singleness and my present struggles. It opened up a very encouraging personal conversation that gave me renewed hope and inspiration! After they left, I kept thinking how glad I was that I just opened up and laid my sould bare.
Day 229: My cell phone rang and I just didn't feel like answering. I had gotten home from work shortly before and was just sitting down to eat a snack and relax. After a few rings I knew I needed to claim the moment, so picked up with a chipper "hello." Little did I know the blessing on the other end. One of the youth kids that I've mentored and been friends with for several years began, through choked back tears, to express his thanks for my guidance and help all these years. He had simply called to say thank you! I was so glad I'd answered his call!!
Lesson: just go for it--what are you waiting for?
Day 224: My parents didn't have a lot of money was I was little, so we always had to take super short showers (Yes, my dad would time us!). My parents no longer have to worry about this, but when I'm home sometimes I still put guilt on myself if my shower seems too long. Today, still fighting a temperature and achiness, I decided to take a long shower even thought I was at my parents and just enjoy it. It felt so good!
Day 225: I don't like confrontation. By now, you know this! Today at Kohl's I found an adorable decor pillow for my couch in the exact color and style I've been looking for. Knowing it would complete my search, and noticing that it was on the "super discount" shelf, I grabbed it. As I made my way to the counter, I noticed the price was not adjusted on the red tag on the pillow, I mustered up the guts to explain where I'd found it and ask for a deal. When the cashier typed in a 50% discount, I took a deep breath and reminded her that I'd found it on the 75-80% off shelf and that it had a tiny stain on the corner. She pused a few buttons and said, "Your total is $6.78" I couldn't believe it! It was a $30 pillow. I left for home swelling with joy and pride that I DID IT! I took a chance and got a GREAT deal!
Day 226: Today a girl friend invited me to go get pedicures with her and some of her friends, and after double checking with her that the price would not be over $20, I told her to count me in. My claim came after my toenails were a beautiful fucia color and my friend, who had just paid for her, said "I'm sorry--I guess it's $30!". Stress. I felt a tigthening in my heart. I had told her that I had a coupon at home for another spa that got me a pedicure AND manicure for a total of $30 and she reassured me that the price would be $20. I took a few deep breaths and claimed a stress-free perspective. And, when she wanted me to join them for breakfast I decided to lay down my penny pinching for the sake of fellowship and getting to know her friends. We shared our some of our testimonies and life stories over breakfast. Thank you, Lord, for helping us see things in a balanced perspective!
Day 227: I love nature. Today I finally made it to the store and bought a hard-core bird feeder for the blossoming tree outside my kitchen window. I filled it and waited expectantly for my first visitors.
Day 228: Somtimes it's hard to be vulnerable. Tonight I had dear friends come visit from Milwaukee--a couple that I haven't seen in almost a year! Sitting across the patio table at one of my favorite restaurants, a moment of truth came up. I knew I needed to be honest and vulnerable about where I'm at with singleness and my present struggles. It opened up a very encouraging personal conversation that gave me renewed hope and inspiration! After they left, I kept thinking how glad I was that I just opened up and laid my sould bare.
Day 229: My cell phone rang and I just didn't feel like answering. I had gotten home from work shortly before and was just sitting down to eat a snack and relax. After a few rings I knew I needed to claim the moment, so picked up with a chipper "hello." Little did I know the blessing on the other end. One of the youth kids that I've mentored and been friends with for several years began, through choked back tears, to express his thanks for my guidance and help all these years. He had simply called to say thank you! I was so glad I'd answered his call!!
Lesson: just go for it--what are you waiting for?
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Day 172 A "Hum Along"
Today's claim wasn't even a conscious choice. Does it still count? I think so, as the goal of this whole journey is to gradually change my perspective and priorities so that I come to live every day as if I'm claiming even though I am not consciously doing so. Here's what happend:
This morning was my second time singing in the church choir. The music and sermon was so powerful that I left encouraged and uplifted, excited about life and singing one of the worship songs from the service.
On the way home I stopped by the grocery store to grab a few things and found myself humming the worship song as I was walking down an aisle. All of a sudden I stopped--was someone else humming too? I looked down the aisle to see a woman in her mid 50's pushing her cart and humming aloud. As she whizzed by me I thought I recognized the song she was singing, so I instantly stopped her and asked, "Are we humming the same song?! Did we just get out of the same church service??" She said, "Calvary?" I exclaimed, "Yes! I'm in the choir--are you?" Surprised, she replied, "I am!" I couldn't believe it.
I honestly think I can say this is the first time I have run into someone in the suburbs who I have some connection to or that I know, besides a student! What a small world, and what a world to discover through serving at church! We ended up chatting for about ten minutes before saying goodbye and continuing on with our errands. I left with a smile.
Lesson: with consistent choices comes consistent, unconscious behaviors
This morning was my second time singing in the church choir. The music and sermon was so powerful that I left encouraged and uplifted, excited about life and singing one of the worship songs from the service.
On the way home I stopped by the grocery store to grab a few things and found myself humming the worship song as I was walking down an aisle. All of a sudden I stopped--was someone else humming too? I looked down the aisle to see a woman in her mid 50's pushing her cart and humming aloud. As she whizzed by me I thought I recognized the song she was singing, so I instantly stopped her and asked, "Are we humming the same song?! Did we just get out of the same church service??" She said, "Calvary?" I exclaimed, "Yes! I'm in the choir--are you?" Surprised, she replied, "I am!" I couldn't believe it.
I honestly think I can say this is the first time I have run into someone in the suburbs who I have some connection to or that I know, besides a student! What a small world, and what a world to discover through serving at church! We ended up chatting for about ten minutes before saying goodbye and continuing on with our errands. I left with a smile.
Lesson: with consistent choices comes consistent, unconscious behaviors
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Day 159 "No" to Gravity
Exhausted from work--the remote control is like gravitational pull. "Just one show" becomes two or three, and then the silence that follows enhances the loneliness within. So tonight I chose something better.
I dug out my big, thick binder of songs I've written over the years and sat down at the piano to see what I could come up with. I pulled out half-written songs, smiling at the memories of inspiration and creation. As I sat with my fingers brushing lightly over the keys, a short phrase and a melody popped into my head. I started to figure it out on the piano... and the words came. I quickly pulled out a pencil and scratched the lyrics and chords down, excited by its newness. I spent a long time playing through it, working with it, singing it. I went to bed that night with new inspiration and purpose.
Lesson: sometimes the choice comes before the inspiration
I dug out my big, thick binder of songs I've written over the years and sat down at the piano to see what I could come up with. I pulled out half-written songs, smiling at the memories of inspiration and creation. As I sat with my fingers brushing lightly over the keys, a short phrase and a melody popped into my head. I started to figure it out on the piano... and the words came. I quickly pulled out a pencil and scratched the lyrics and chords down, excited by its newness. I spent a long time playing through it, working with it, singing it. I went to bed that night with new inspiration and purpose.
Lesson: sometimes the choice comes before the inspiration
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Day 117 Tame the...?
Dishes. Piles and piles of dishes.This is my weakest link when it comes to organization.
See, the thing is:
it's a never ending task.
Just like laundry (my 2nd weakest link).
I can't just cross them off,
feel great about accomplishing them,
and move on.
See, an hour later I eat a bowl of cereal.
And then I dirty a cup.
And then a bowl for that yummy ice cream...
A pan for this or that,
and then that phone call that sends me racing out the door.
And I'm back at square one.
...And we have to wear clothes every day,
so that's self explanatory!!
I've been trying to tame the growing pile of dishes.
Honestly? It's a tough habit for me to break.
Today I came home and there were some dishes starting to pile up.
Claim it! And keep claiming it!
...My sink was glistening.
What a great feeling!
20 times to break a habit, right?
How about you?
What's a habit you want to break?
20 times--we can do it!
Lesson: patience and persistance
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Day 107 Maximizing
Woman's Day magazine--
I've told you about it.
They have great articles about staying organized,
on top of house cleaning,
above piles of laundry, etc.
One thing I read this week was this:
use your spare moments to tidy up.
Maybe you're thinking you have no "spare moments"?
It was fabulous!
I've told you about it.
They have great articles about staying organized,
on top of house cleaning,
above piles of laundry, etc.
One thing I read this week was this:
use your spare moments to tidy up.
Maybe you're thinking you have no "spare moments"?Their example was:
when you're waiting for the water on the stove to boil,
do a small tast to unclutter.
I've been meaning to dust my place FOREVER.
There is (now, was) a coat of dust on top of my entertainment center!
Tonight I got a long call from one of my best friends.
I decided to dust at the same time.It was fabulous!
By the time we were done chatting,
my furniture was dust-free!
Lesson: maximize your minutes!
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Day 96 Silver Beauty
My car.It's silver,
beautiful,
and totally faithful.
But now it's my turn to give back.
I've been neglecting things...
like, never quite having EVERYTHING cleaned out of it...
or having a messy trunk...
or not getting around to cleaning those crumbs up.
I haven't given it a "bath" in over a year.
Terrible,
I know.
All winter long,
no wash.
Then summer came and went.
I always thought of it when I was in the middle of something else.
Today was gorgeous out--
65 and sunny.
It was "the day."
My car is now sparkly,
inside AND out.
I got a $50 wash card
(by accident--long story)
but now I can keep up with it!
Lesson: pamper your car!
Friday, November 20, 2009
Day 94 Pen and Ink
I have a trunk in my parents' attic,full of memorable things...
poems I wrote in 2nd grade,
pictures I drew as a kid,
prom pictures, medals, letters from pen pals,
(and of course love letters from my first real crush...),
and two huge stacks of notebooks.
Journals, really.
Pages and pages that reflect my heart.
Journals dat
ing way back to fifth and sixth grade.
ing way back to fifth and sixth grade.I wrote all the time,
about everything and anything.
Little hearts with my crush's name...
my name written beautifully with his last name attached...
My busy life has pulled me away from this.
I still journal, but not 10 pages in one sitting!
I want to find that in myself again.
I want to make time for this.
Today I finally sat down and journaled.
It was refreshing,
reflective,
and peaceful.
Why is it that we put aside such things?
We're too tired.
Exhausted.
Busy.
And grown-up.
I want to let my heart pour out,
let my thoughts fill up paper like childhood days.
Lesson: reflect and let my heart speak
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Day 87 & 88 Escape into Redeeming Love
Day 87
Time for some R and R!
Usually I teach lessons this day after school.
Private music lessons.
Today I needed to do NOTHING.
Ever have one of those days?
Or, those weeks?
I cancelled,
and spent a wonderful,
relaxing,
peaceful evening escaping...
into the the world of "Redeeming Love"
while cuddling in my comforter on the couch,
enjoying the candle-lit glow.
Just what I needed!
Lesson: candles and a good book make a great "vacation" from life!
Day 88
I couldn't escape the world of "Redeeming Love"
(you HAVE to read this book!),
or the relaxation and peace it brought.
Friday.
I decided to stay in
(without feeling like I was missing out),
and relax without turning on the TV.
To just veg on the couch eating McDonald's (guilt-free),
and enter the pages of my novel.
To enjoy the peace of a weekend night in,
and the freedom singleness brings of lounging around...
doing nothing....
in the midst of a messy apartment...
just for one night.
It was great!
Lesson: enjoy the freedom in my schedule that singleness brings!
Time for some R and R!
Usually I teach lessons this day after school.
Private music lessons.
Today I needed to do NOTHING.
Ever have one of those days?
Or, those weeks?
I cancelled,
and spent a wonderful,
relaxing,
peaceful evening escaping...
into the the world of "Redeeming Love"
while cuddling in my comforter on the couch,
enjoying the candle-lit glow.
Just what I needed!
Lesson: candles and a good book make a great "vacation" from life!
Day 88
I couldn't escape the world of "Redeeming Love"
(you HAVE to read this book!),
or the relaxation and peace it brought.
Friday.
I decided to stay in
(without feeling like I was missing out),
and relax without turning on the TV.
To just veg on the couch eating McDonald's (guilt-free),
and enter the pages of my novel.
To enjoy the peace of a weekend night in,
and the freedom singleness brings of lounging around...
doing nothing....
in the midst of a messy apartment...
just for one night.
It was great!
Lesson: enjoy the freedom in my schedule that singleness brings!
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Day 76 Honesty?
Remember the phone call to my best friend?
The one who got married in June?
My claim was confrontation.
Not in a bad way,
but to just be completely honest about our relationship.
Today was the day--
we had "the talk."
Jesus is so kind!
It went so well;
He kept my mouth silent some things,
and brought up my hurts in a gentle way.
What's that old old quote?
"Honesty is the best policy."
Oh, and since that was an old claim,
one that surfaced today,
I also had another today:
Complete an unfinished project.
Remember my claim to paint my whole bathroom?
Well, there was one tiny spot left to do,
a board where I had to install the toilet roll holder first.
Today I finished painting it.
The bathroom is beautiful,
I must say!
Lesson: honesty really does pay off--be bold!
The one who got married in June?
My claim was confrontation.
Not in a bad way,
but to just be completely honest about our relationship.
Today was the day--
we had "the talk."
Jesus is so kind!
It went so well;
He kept my mouth silent some things,
and brought up my hurts in a gentle way.
What's that old old quote?
"Honesty is the best policy."
Oh, and since that was an old claim,
one that surfaced today,
I also had another today:
Complete an unfinished project.
Remember my claim to paint my whole bathroom?
Well, there was one tiny spot left to do,
a board where I had to install the toilet roll holder first.
Today I finished painting it.
The bathroom is beautiful,
I must say!
Lesson: honesty really does pay off--be bold!
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