It's been a few days, sorry guys. I've been incredibly busy this last week between signing the new lease, breaking our old one, and wedding details.
But that's nothing compared to what this week is going to be like! Today is my last day in Springfield for the week. Tomorrow, I go home to KC to start finishing up all the wedding plans. And then Saturday... I'M GETTING MARRIED!
I'm so excited, I don't know how I'm going to be able to sleep at all this week. I can't believe it's already here! This is going to be the best week of my life so far. There's so many plans made and so many things to do! I have something planned for every single day.
Tomorrow - I'm driving up to KC, then I have a dentist appointment at 5 (yuck), and then dinner at Aunt Kelly & Uncle Donnie's!
Wednesday - Pre-wedding lunch with my some of my mom's co-workers at Salty Iguana. It's basically a tradition.
Thursday - Ceremony practice in the morning, then lunch at the Gleaton house. Then we're getting our nails done at 3:30.
Friday - Getting all the centerpieces and stuff set up during the day, then the rehearsal dinner that night.
Saturday - WEDDING!!
I'll try to blog throughout the week, but it may be difficult, since I'll be so busy. If anything, I'll post updates on the Facebook page! Facebook page.
There's the link in case you haven't liked it already!
I can't wait to see everyone over the course of this week, especially Saturday. It's seriously going to be such a magical day. I'm beyond excited.
Monday, July 29, 2013
Friday, July 26, 2013
A couple drops of good luck.
This morning was yet another eventful one for Matthew & I! We went down to our apartment's office to give our 30 day notice and break our lease. While we were filling out the necessary paperwork, this older gentleman comes in with an application. Crystal (our office lady) makes a comment about how he's co-signing for his sister for a one bedroom apartment. Of course, my ears perked up. Then the man (whose name we later found out was Steve) mentioned that his sister (Kathy) didn't want a room facing south.
He couldn't remember which way was south, and so Matt pointed for him. I spoke up and said that ours faced North/Northeast and that ours was a one bedroom. Steve gave Matt his card and took his number and asked if he could see the apartment some time soon. Technically, ours won't be available until the 1st of September, but we will be out in the middle of August. We expected a call in a week or two, right? Nope! He called Matt maybe 20 minutes later and said his sister had to come up to do some paperwork and asked if we would mind if they took a look.
We warned them that it would be a bit messy, but they said they didn't mind. So they came on up and we showed them all the awesome stuff about our apartment (all the closet space, the ceiling fan in the bedroom, the view outside the apartment, etc). Kathy loved it! So right now, it looks like they will be able to lease out our space. Which is good, because technically we are liable to pay rent until they fill it. Which would suuuuck. So looks like we might be getting lucky here. Everything happens for a reason, that's for sure. God definitely moved in both our lives today by putting us in the office at the same time.
The other stroke of good luck we had this morning was that Autozone called Matt and asked for an interview! Matthew had called the store he had interviewed at and had been told the position was filled. We were both stressing because he had already put in his two weeks at O'Reilly's. But then this morning, the manager from another store called him about a full time position. They're looking for someone fluent in Spanish, and Matt is! He's a bit rusty, but he lived in Argentina for 4 years, so he'll easily pick it back up. I'm not sure exactly what day his interview is on, but I'm definitely praying for it to go well. If it's meant to be, it will be. I have faith that God will provide for us in the exactly right way. Whether it's through Autozone or elsewhere.
We are now 8 days away from the wedding. It's so hard to believe. I feel like it was just a couple weeks ago that I was talking to so many friends about how it was 8 months away. Where has all this time gone? I really can't believe it's already so close. I can't even describe how I feel. It's so strange to think that in 8 days I will have a new name, and I will have gained another set of parents, and four siblings. Holy cow!
He couldn't remember which way was south, and so Matt pointed for him. I spoke up and said that ours faced North/Northeast and that ours was a one bedroom. Steve gave Matt his card and took his number and asked if he could see the apartment some time soon. Technically, ours won't be available until the 1st of September, but we will be out in the middle of August. We expected a call in a week or two, right? Nope! He called Matt maybe 20 minutes later and said his sister had to come up to do some paperwork and asked if we would mind if they took a look.
We warned them that it would be a bit messy, but they said they didn't mind. So they came on up and we showed them all the awesome stuff about our apartment (all the closet space, the ceiling fan in the bedroom, the view outside the apartment, etc). Kathy loved it! So right now, it looks like they will be able to lease out our space. Which is good, because technically we are liable to pay rent until they fill it. Which would suuuuck. So looks like we might be getting lucky here. Everything happens for a reason, that's for sure. God definitely moved in both our lives today by putting us in the office at the same time.
The other stroke of good luck we had this morning was that Autozone called Matt and asked for an interview! Matthew had called the store he had interviewed at and had been told the position was filled. We were both stressing because he had already put in his two weeks at O'Reilly's. But then this morning, the manager from another store called him about a full time position. They're looking for someone fluent in Spanish, and Matt is! He's a bit rusty, but he lived in Argentina for 4 years, so he'll easily pick it back up. I'm not sure exactly what day his interview is on, but I'm definitely praying for it to go well. If it's meant to be, it will be. I have faith that God will provide for us in the exactly right way. Whether it's through Autozone or elsewhere.
We are now 8 days away from the wedding. It's so hard to believe. I feel like it was just a couple weeks ago that I was talking to so many friends about how it was 8 months away. Where has all this time gone? I really can't believe it's already so close. I can't even describe how I feel. It's so strange to think that in 8 days I will have a new name, and I will have gained another set of parents, and four siblings. Holy cow!
Thursday, July 25, 2013
Freeset.
I started my first research project today. I combed through the entire website of Freeset. Oh. My. Word. What they are doing is amazing! They are seriously changing some lives. It's so awesome.
Freeset is located in Sonagacchi, which is located in the biggest sex district in Kolkata, India. The owners, Kerry and Annie Hilton are originally from New Zealand. They moved to Kolkata in 1999. They took their four children with them. To move an entire family into such a poor area takes immense courage. To make a difference in a community, one needs to live among them. You can't really make a difference if you're living outside of the situation and driving in. It just doesn't work that way. And this couple got that. They moved their family right in to the middle of the largest red light district. Their neighbors were women forced into prostitution.
Kerry and Annie Hilton knew that a way to save these women from being exploited was to give them a way to get a handle on their life. So they experimented with different things and settled on a business that makes jute bags. Jute is a rain-fed crop that grows in India. The plant is harvested and the fibers are used to make the bags. The women are taken off the line and given a job. They are taught how to make the bags. They are taught how to sew, cut, etc. These women are then paid double the going rate for an equivalent job. Each women is hired on full time so they have access to the health care they deserve. They can then save money they earned and stay off the streets. They are also taught basic reading, writing, and counting.
This business not only helps stimulate the local economy by getting the women money (one woman was able to pay for her own wedding!), but it saves lives! A business like this should be a model for everyone. Their story is so inspiring. The Hilton family is truly an example of serving others. They left their home in New Zealand to live amongst the poor to help them better their lives. There are not many people in this world that are that selfless or courageous. Something like this is what I would love to do. It seems so simple, but it makes such a HUGE difference.
Here's a couple links to check out - Their website! - Their Facebook page!
Please check them out. They are truly inspirational. Especially check out the video. Yes, it's six minutes long. But you can spare a few minutes. Find out the stories of real women; find out how Freeset has helped save them, helped change their lives, and help give them the dignity they deserve.
I know the next time I'm looking for a bag, I'm going to buy from them. Their business is for freedom. Let's follow their example.
Freeset is located in Sonagacchi, which is located in the biggest sex district in Kolkata, India. The owners, Kerry and Annie Hilton are originally from New Zealand. They moved to Kolkata in 1999. They took their four children with them. To move an entire family into such a poor area takes immense courage. To make a difference in a community, one needs to live among them. You can't really make a difference if you're living outside of the situation and driving in. It just doesn't work that way. And this couple got that. They moved their family right in to the middle of the largest red light district. Their neighbors were women forced into prostitution.
Kerry and Annie Hilton knew that a way to save these women from being exploited was to give them a way to get a handle on their life. So they experimented with different things and settled on a business that makes jute bags. Jute is a rain-fed crop that grows in India. The plant is harvested and the fibers are used to make the bags. The women are taken off the line and given a job. They are taught how to make the bags. They are taught how to sew, cut, etc. These women are then paid double the going rate for an equivalent job. Each women is hired on full time so they have access to the health care they deserve. They can then save money they earned and stay off the streets. They are also taught basic reading, writing, and counting.
This is their factory.
This is the t-shirt production line.
This is one of the women sewing their popular sari Hope bag.
Here's a couple links to check out - Their website! - Their Facebook page!
Please check them out. They are truly inspirational. Especially check out the video. Yes, it's six minutes long. But you can spare a few minutes. Find out the stories of real women; find out how Freeset has helped save them, helped change their lives, and help give them the dignity they deserve.
I know the next time I'm looking for a bag, I'm going to buy from them. Their business is for freedom. Let's follow their example.
This week.
Has been awesome, for real.
Tuesday, one of my best friends landed back in the U.S. safely! She's been studying abroad in China. Last night, her, David and I went to Zios for dinner! It was absolutely delicious and the company was even better. It was so good to see both of them, and I'm so happy that McKayla is back. I'm also very excited I picked her to be in my wedding party. Such a great choice.
This morning, Matthew and I went and signed our new lease for the townhouse! It was a little crazy because the lady had be sign with both my maiden name and my new name. It was funny because just yesterday McKayla, David, and I were talking about how I hadn't practiced how I'm going to sign my new name! I definitely got some practice today. I'm seriously so glad we found this place. It's awesome. & it's within walking distance of the Ozark Empire Fair grounds! Holla!
Today marks 9 days until the wedding. We've hit single digits! I can't believe it's already almost here. I feel like it was just a few weeks ago that McKayla and I were talking about how it was 8 months away. Where oh where has the time gone!? I'm excited, and nervous, and happy, and I don't even know what else. I'm definitely ready though.
Tuesday, one of my best friends landed back in the U.S. safely! She's been studying abroad in China. Last night, her, David and I went to Zios for dinner! It was absolutely delicious and the company was even better. It was so good to see both of them, and I'm so happy that McKayla is back. I'm also very excited I picked her to be in my wedding party. Such a great choice.
This morning, Matthew and I went and signed our new lease for the townhouse! It was a little crazy because the lady had be sign with both my maiden name and my new name. It was funny because just yesterday McKayla, David, and I were talking about how I hadn't practiced how I'm going to sign my new name! I definitely got some practice today. I'm seriously so glad we found this place. It's awesome. & it's within walking distance of the Ozark Empire Fair grounds! Holla!
Today marks 9 days until the wedding. We've hit single digits! I can't believe it's already almost here. I feel like it was just a few weeks ago that McKayla and I were talking about how it was 8 months away. Where oh where has the time gone!? I'm excited, and nervous, and happy, and I don't even know what else. I'm definitely ready though.
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
Digniti 3.
Okay, guys. I'm here to tell you about an amazing new business that is starting up. I know I've been promoting a lot of different things lately, but this one really gets to me. It's called Digniti 3. The owner? My father-in-law. This post won't be the only time you read about D3.
Over the next several months I'm going to completely immerse myself in the world that Digniti 3 is a part of. I've really been looking into missions, and this is a great way to explore. I talked with Miles Gleaton this evening to get an overview of what his vision is.
Digniti 3 wants to set up business incubators in Thailand and Georgia to help entrepreneurs start businesses in 3rd world countries. There is a special focus on young adults (20-30 years old). Miles believes that it's our generation who is going to make a difference. And he's right! Think about it.. our generation is the most innovative we've ever seen. We have extremely high expectations for what happens in our world; we have high expectations for what is available to us. We just need to harness that innovative piece of us and put it to good work!
What D3 is shooting for is to help young entrepreneurs start up businesses in 3rd world countries to actually make a difference. D3 wants to help create jobs that give people dignity. This is how Miles put it for me: you work a job that you don't mind (usually) and that pays you a fair wage (at least $7.35 an hour). You feel good about that. It gives you dignity. There are so many people in the world who don't have that.. and Digniti 3 wants to provide resources to help achieve that.
By Summer 2015, Digniti 3 wants to have the 2 incubators set up. These will be buildings that are safe places for entrepreneurs to go to to receive coaching and advice on running their business. One amazing part about it is that even local entrepreneurs will be welcome! Along the way, we will share our life stories, share the gospel.
This business is still in its starting steps. Right now, Miles is working on raising money to get the business off the ground. I strongly encourage you to help him out. Digniti 3 will impact so many lives. It won't just help the entrepreneurs, but it will help the communities. Here's a couple links I'd like you guys to check out:
Here's the website
Here's the fundraising website
Here's their Facebook Page
Seriously, go take a look. Like their Facebook page! Donate if you can! There are awesome incentives to donate. You can get a t-shirt that is fair trade certified. This means that they are paid a fair price for the work they put in to make it. Who makes the shirts? Women who have been rescued from prostitution and sex trafficking in Calcutta, India. How cool is that?
I know this may not make a lot of sense right now, and I promise to give more information as I start my journey. I'm extremely excited to be working with Miles on this. Not only is he an amazing person to work with, but he's extremely smart and he really cares a lot. I'm excited to see where this journey takes him as well.
This will definitely be a journey into my faith. There's going to be a lot of research and a lot of discussion about what Digniti 3 is all about. So, friends, be prepared. I'm going to be asking a lot of you different questions regarding how you feel about this. Over the next few months, I'm not only going to be exploring what Digniti 3 offers, but what I can offer as well. This is very much a personal exploration and I can't wait to see what I discover.
Over the next several months I'm going to completely immerse myself in the world that Digniti 3 is a part of. I've really been looking into missions, and this is a great way to explore. I talked with Miles Gleaton this evening to get an overview of what his vision is.
Digniti 3 wants to set up business incubators in Thailand and Georgia to help entrepreneurs start businesses in 3rd world countries. There is a special focus on young adults (20-30 years old). Miles believes that it's our generation who is going to make a difference. And he's right! Think about it.. our generation is the most innovative we've ever seen. We have extremely high expectations for what happens in our world; we have high expectations for what is available to us. We just need to harness that innovative piece of us and put it to good work!
What D3 is shooting for is to help young entrepreneurs start up businesses in 3rd world countries to actually make a difference. D3 wants to help create jobs that give people dignity. This is how Miles put it for me: you work a job that you don't mind (usually) and that pays you a fair wage (at least $7.35 an hour). You feel good about that. It gives you dignity. There are so many people in the world who don't have that.. and Digniti 3 wants to provide resources to help achieve that.
By Summer 2015, Digniti 3 wants to have the 2 incubators set up. These will be buildings that are safe places for entrepreneurs to go to to receive coaching and advice on running their business. One amazing part about it is that even local entrepreneurs will be welcome! Along the way, we will share our life stories, share the gospel.
This business is still in its starting steps. Right now, Miles is working on raising money to get the business off the ground. I strongly encourage you to help him out. Digniti 3 will impact so many lives. It won't just help the entrepreneurs, but it will help the communities. Here's a couple links I'd like you guys to check out:
Here's the website
Here's the fundraising website
Here's their Facebook Page
Seriously, go take a look. Like their Facebook page! Donate if you can! There are awesome incentives to donate. You can get a t-shirt that is fair trade certified. This means that they are paid a fair price for the work they put in to make it. Who makes the shirts? Women who have been rescued from prostitution and sex trafficking in Calcutta, India. How cool is that?
I know this may not make a lot of sense right now, and I promise to give more information as I start my journey. I'm extremely excited to be working with Miles on this. Not only is he an amazing person to work with, but he's extremely smart and he really cares a lot. I'm excited to see where this journey takes him as well.
This will definitely be a journey into my faith. There's going to be a lot of research and a lot of discussion about what Digniti 3 is all about. So, friends, be prepared. I'm going to be asking a lot of you different questions regarding how you feel about this. Over the next few months, I'm not only going to be exploring what Digniti 3 offers, but what I can offer as well. This is very much a personal exploration and I can't wait to see what I discover.
Interview Nerves.
This morning, I went into my interview for the Marketing Assistant for Chick-Fil-A. I'm still trying to process what happened. The man I spoke with, Kevin, was extremely kind. We got along great. We even had a lot in common - we both graduated high school at the age of 17 and then turned 18 the summer after, and we've both worked at Old Navy. My interview lasted 45 minutes. That's the longest interview I've ever had.
Honestly, I'll be more surprised if I get the position than if I don't. I'm so thankful that I even had the opportunity to speak with him. There are at least 8 people interested in the position and some of them are actually marketing majors, which definitely lessens my chance. I do believe that I gave a strong interview though.
I have been praying hard about this. I know that if it's meant to be God will move within my life and make it happen. I will follow whatever path He puts in front of me. I'm excited for whatever opportunity comes my way.
Honestly, I'll be more surprised if I get the position than if I don't. I'm so thankful that I even had the opportunity to speak with him. There are at least 8 people interested in the position and some of them are actually marketing majors, which definitely lessens my chance. I do believe that I gave a strong interview though.
I have been praying hard about this. I know that if it's meant to be God will move within my life and make it happen. I will follow whatever path He puts in front of me. I'm excited for whatever opportunity comes my way.
Monday, July 22, 2013
Go Army?
Today has already been eventful! This morning Matthew & I went and got our Marriage License! We're only 12 days away from the big day. It's so hard to believe it's already here.
After leaving the Courthouse, we went to a recruiter's office. Yup, that's right. A recruiting office for the Army. We've been discussing this topic for a couple of weeks now as an option for Matthew & myself. After talking to different people about being in the Army, Matthew and I have decided to look into it. So today we went to talk to someone about it.
We got a lot of different information about joining the military and what it would look like for us as a military family. The recruiter sent us home with all kinds of pamphlets and information to talk over. So Matthew and I went home and went over the various jobs he could do in the army. We figured that if he's going to do it, might as well do something worth while. There were a couple options we came up with that sounded really cool. Lots of intelligence/analysts type stuff.
There are a lot of pros and cons to go over in the next few days. It'll be a huge life changer for us. But I think it will be an amazing adventure. Yes, there will be difficult times, but we will have that anywhere. I'm willing to take the risk. One funny part about it is that Matt has to take out his gages (my mom will be so happy!). He may or may not take the ASVAB next Wednesday.
I know that the time away from him during basic and AIT will be hard. I mean, it's 10 weeks for basic and AIT varies in the time span. All the ones we were looking at were about 8-10 weeks as well, if not longer. But I know that we can make it through. We'll both be busy and I, personally, will have an amazing support system here. I'm very excited to see what our future holds for us.
After leaving the Courthouse, we went to a recruiter's office. Yup, that's right. A recruiting office for the Army. We've been discussing this topic for a couple of weeks now as an option for Matthew & myself. After talking to different people about being in the Army, Matthew and I have decided to look into it. So today we went to talk to someone about it.
We got a lot of different information about joining the military and what it would look like for us as a military family. The recruiter sent us home with all kinds of pamphlets and information to talk over. So Matthew and I went home and went over the various jobs he could do in the army. We figured that if he's going to do it, might as well do something worth while. There were a couple options we came up with that sounded really cool. Lots of intelligence/analysts type stuff.
There are a lot of pros and cons to go over in the next few days. It'll be a huge life changer for us. But I think it will be an amazing adventure. Yes, there will be difficult times, but we will have that anywhere. I'm willing to take the risk. One funny part about it is that Matt has to take out his gages (my mom will be so happy!). He may or may not take the ASVAB next Wednesday.
I know that the time away from him during basic and AIT will be hard. I mean, it's 10 weeks for basic and AIT varies in the time span. All the ones we were looking at were about 8-10 weeks as well, if not longer. But I know that we can make it through. We'll both be busy and I, personally, will have an amazing support system here. I'm very excited to see what our future holds for us.
Saturday, July 20, 2013
Twitter bound.
Hello, my lovely friends! This will be a quick post, but I wanted to announce something awesome! My blog now has a Twitter account! Go ahead and follow it: @Confessions_NC
Also, don't forget about the Facebook page! There's going to be some amazing things being posted soon, so keep a look out.
I just want to thank y'all for reading what I have to say. I know I'm not the most eloquent writer and I really just feel so blessed to know that there are readers. Again, THANK YOU.
Opportunities & Being Reunited.
I'm very excited for this next week! I have an interview Tuesday morning and one of my best friends coming home the same day!
I stumbled across an opportunity yesterday that I'm very excited to explore. There was a posting on the Missouri State site for a Marketing Assistant for the Chick-Fil-A in Battlefield Mall. I emailed the contact and gave him my resume. He emailed me back and set up an interview time for Tuesday morning! I'm very excited to explore this opportunity. It's not something I've ever considered before. I'm praying that I will be offered this position so I can see what Chick-Fil-A has in store for me.
Also, one of my beloved bridesmaids is coming home from China on Tuesday! She's been gone for sooooo long. About 7 months. I cannot wait for her to be home. I've seriously missed her so much. She was one of those friends I knew I could tell anything to. I miss being able to see her all the time. Wednesday night, her, myself, and our very dear friend David are going out to dinner and it's going to be such a grand time!
We also will be signing our new lease this coming week! We're about to start a brand new chapter in our life. This entire next week is going to be amazing! Then the next week I head to Kansas City for the wedding!
I stumbled across an opportunity yesterday that I'm very excited to explore. There was a posting on the Missouri State site for a Marketing Assistant for the Chick-Fil-A in Battlefield Mall. I emailed the contact and gave him my resume. He emailed me back and set up an interview time for Tuesday morning! I'm very excited to explore this opportunity. It's not something I've ever considered before. I'm praying that I will be offered this position so I can see what Chick-Fil-A has in store for me.
Also, one of my beloved bridesmaids is coming home from China on Tuesday! She's been gone for sooooo long. About 7 months. I cannot wait for her to be home. I've seriously missed her so much. She was one of those friends I knew I could tell anything to. I miss being able to see her all the time. Wednesday night, her, myself, and our very dear friend David are going out to dinner and it's going to be such a grand time!
We also will be signing our new lease this coming week! We're about to start a brand new chapter in our life. This entire next week is going to be amazing! Then the next week I head to Kansas City for the wedding!
Friday, July 19, 2013
APPROVAL!
I just received a text from Matthew, and.....
We have been approved for our townhome!!!
This means that after our wedding we will be moving into a real home! I'm so excited to be getting out of our apartment and into a house-like structure! AAAAAND, this means we get Luna back in about 3 weeks or so!!!!
God has seriously answered our prayers on this one and I couldn't be more grateful. God is so good and He always provides!
Also, big thanks to my mom for finding the place online! <3
We have been approved for our townhome!!!
This means that after our wedding we will be moving into a real home! I'm so excited to be getting out of our apartment and into a house-like structure! AAAAAND, this means we get Luna back in about 3 weeks or so!!!!
God has seriously answered our prayers on this one and I couldn't be more grateful. God is so good and He always provides!
Also, big thanks to my mom for finding the place online! <3
Studying... but not for college.
Last night I dropped the rest of my summer classes. This was a big decision for me. It took me hours to decide if I was going to actually go through with it. I'm now out money and time and I have to now take 18 hours next spring for my last semester. It seems a little daunting, but I have faith that I can get through it. I mean, I did it this past spring.
I was so upset about it last night. I felt like a complete quitter. It means that I've now dropped three classes this summer. Over the past year, I've had to resign from so many different things because life just keeps happening. Do I regret dropping my organizations and such? No, not really. (I kind of missed SGA). But I feel like I just keep having to quit everything.
There's just so much going on right now I just couldn't keep up on my school work. Usually I'd say I'm a student first, but I just think that my living situation and my wedding are a bit more important right now. I would have been able to do it had I been able to focus this last week rather than try to find a new place to live. But that's alright. Things happen and I'm just happy now that I have a full month off from school (which is my first break pretty much since I started college), and I can now focus on moving and my wedding (15 DAYS!!!).
One super upside about dropping my classes is that I can go back to reading my spiritual books! I'm so excited about it. I've been on Humility for such a long time now. Don't get me wrong, it's a great book, but I have so many I want to read! In fact, I just read my favorite part of the book, and I wanted to share it with you.
C.J. Mahaney shares different ways to culminate humility in your every day life. He has a list of ways that he works his way through. The section I'm just about done with talks about sleep and how even the act of sleeping should be humbling. Mahaney points out that sleep shows that we are truly dependent on the Lord. He sustains us during our sleep. He could have created us to not need sleep. But instead he gave us the gift of sleeping. We are not self-sufficient; we NEED God to sustain us.
Mahaney also points out that sleep is completely an act of trust. He says, "Your sleep tonight will be a small but real act of faith. You'll lay your full weight on a bed, trusting this structure to support you. You can fully relax, because no effort at supporting yourself is required; something else is holding you up. And in the same way, throughout the night as you sleep, Someone else is sustaining you. This is a picture of what it's like to belong to Christ." (pg 84-85). I must say that I've never thought of sleep like that. I always just thought of it as something I had to do. Now I try to make a conscious effort every single night before falling asleep to thank God for this amazing gift.
I'm really learning a lot from this book on how to try to be more humble. Every single person struggles with pride. I definitely do sometimes. Rather than lean on God to guide me through my worries and troubles, I try to be self-sufficient. I'm also working on transferring all glory to Him. I can think back to many accomplishments I've reached and I remember thinking, "Man, I did this. I rock." When in reality, nothing is possible without God. So now, any time I do something awesome, I transfer the glory to Him. It's a work in progress, and it's something that will take effort every day.
It's like C.S. Lewis said in his book Mere Christianity: Becoming a Christian changes your whole life; it consumes all of you. Of course, he said it more eloquently, but let's be honest, I'm not that eloquent of a writer. Anywho, I really encourage you to check out Humility. It's a great book to study and to take lessons from. Each time I read it, I feel that much closer to God.
I was so upset about it last night. I felt like a complete quitter. It means that I've now dropped three classes this summer. Over the past year, I've had to resign from so many different things because life just keeps happening. Do I regret dropping my organizations and such? No, not really. (I kind of missed SGA). But I feel like I just keep having to quit everything.
There's just so much going on right now I just couldn't keep up on my school work. Usually I'd say I'm a student first, but I just think that my living situation and my wedding are a bit more important right now. I would have been able to do it had I been able to focus this last week rather than try to find a new place to live. But that's alright. Things happen and I'm just happy now that I have a full month off from school (which is my first break pretty much since I started college), and I can now focus on moving and my wedding (15 DAYS!!!).
One super upside about dropping my classes is that I can go back to reading my spiritual books! I'm so excited about it. I've been on Humility for such a long time now. Don't get me wrong, it's a great book, but I have so many I want to read! In fact, I just read my favorite part of the book, and I wanted to share it with you.
C.J. Mahaney shares different ways to culminate humility in your every day life. He has a list of ways that he works his way through. The section I'm just about done with talks about sleep and how even the act of sleeping should be humbling. Mahaney points out that sleep shows that we are truly dependent on the Lord. He sustains us during our sleep. He could have created us to not need sleep. But instead he gave us the gift of sleeping. We are not self-sufficient; we NEED God to sustain us.
Mahaney also points out that sleep is completely an act of trust. He says, "Your sleep tonight will be a small but real act of faith. You'll lay your full weight on a bed, trusting this structure to support you. You can fully relax, because no effort at supporting yourself is required; something else is holding you up. And in the same way, throughout the night as you sleep, Someone else is sustaining you. This is a picture of what it's like to belong to Christ." (pg 84-85). I must say that I've never thought of sleep like that. I always just thought of it as something I had to do. Now I try to make a conscious effort every single night before falling asleep to thank God for this amazing gift.
I'm really learning a lot from this book on how to try to be more humble. Every single person struggles with pride. I definitely do sometimes. Rather than lean on God to guide me through my worries and troubles, I try to be self-sufficient. I'm also working on transferring all glory to Him. I can think back to many accomplishments I've reached and I remember thinking, "Man, I did this. I rock." When in reality, nothing is possible without God. So now, any time I do something awesome, I transfer the glory to Him. It's a work in progress, and it's something that will take effort every day.
It's like C.S. Lewis said in his book Mere Christianity: Becoming a Christian changes your whole life; it consumes all of you. Of course, he said it more eloquently, but let's be honest, I'm not that eloquent of a writer. Anywho, I really encourage you to check out Humility. It's a great book to study and to take lessons from. Each time I read it, I feel that much closer to God.
Take a tour of Kansas City...
....in one minute, on your computer! This video has gone viral over the last couple of days. A man by the name of Emerson Rapp created this video with some of his friends. He follows a theme of "This is where you get.." It's extremely accurate and very funny!
Things like this make me miss being in Kansas City, since that's where I grew up. I mean, I love Springfield. Don't get me wrong. But I sure do miss that good KC BBQ.
Anyway, here's the vid!
Things like this make me miss being in Kansas City, since that's where I grew up. I mean, I love Springfield. Don't get me wrong. But I sure do miss that good KC BBQ.
Anyway, here's the vid!
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Inspiration.
When I first started this blog, I wasn't sure what my purpose was going to be for writing it. At first it was just about my every day doings (which it still kind of is), but then a month or so ago, I decided to redirect it to document some of my spiritual journey.
I've mentioned in previous posts that I've thought about missions, but I was questioning it hardcore because I didn't feel qualified. I mean, I hadn't even gotten anyone to look at their faith differently or anything. How could I ever go somewhere else in the world and help them see the truth?
Today, something amazing happened. See, I'm really lucky. I have three sets of grandparents. That's right: three grandmas and three grandpas. And they're all the best in their own ways. I love them more than anything. Today, after launching the new Facebook page, one of my grandpa's commented on the cover photo. If you want to read the whole thing, go here: Facebook page! I'm only going to quote a part of it on here.
"...I just have become more private with my belief and Faith and as I get older I am reaching back to revive and strengthen my Faith. To see you learning and gaining Faith has only made me want to strengthen my own. You are an inspiration as we watch you grow in to a young adult..."
This, my friends, is my ultimate goal. This marks a huge milestone for me. I literally cried from happiness when I read this post. It just warms my heart that I've inspired someone to want to get closer to God. That is my ultimate goal. I'm here to serve my wonderful God, and I'm finally taking steps to get closer to that.
I may not be the best writer out there, but I don't care. I have a voice, and I'm going to use it. I hope that every corner of the Earth hears what I have to say about my faith. I can only pray that my blog keeps inspiring others to look deeper into their faith and to work towards growing closer to God every day. It's a never ending journey, but it sure is a wonderful ride.
I've mentioned in previous posts that I've thought about missions, but I was questioning it hardcore because I didn't feel qualified. I mean, I hadn't even gotten anyone to look at their faith differently or anything. How could I ever go somewhere else in the world and help them see the truth?
Today, something amazing happened. See, I'm really lucky. I have three sets of grandparents. That's right: three grandmas and three grandpas. And they're all the best in their own ways. I love them more than anything. Today, after launching the new Facebook page, one of my grandpa's commented on the cover photo. If you want to read the whole thing, go here: Facebook page! I'm only going to quote a part of it on here.
"...I just have become more private with my belief and Faith and as I get older I am reaching back to revive and strengthen my Faith. To see you learning and gaining Faith has only made me want to strengthen my own. You are an inspiration as we watch you grow in to a young adult..."
This, my friends, is my ultimate goal. This marks a huge milestone for me. I literally cried from happiness when I read this post. It just warms my heart that I've inspired someone to want to get closer to God. That is my ultimate goal. I'm here to serve my wonderful God, and I'm finally taking steps to get closer to that.
I may not be the best writer out there, but I don't care. I have a voice, and I'm going to use it. I hope that every corner of the Earth hears what I have to say about my faith. I can only pray that my blog keeps inspiring others to look deeper into their faith and to work towards growing closer to God every day. It's a never ending journey, but it sure is a wonderful ride.
Stand for the Silent.
Since I've talked about one movement today, I figured I could keep going and talk about another movement that I absolutely love!
Stand for the Silent is a movement that's dedicated to stopping bullying. This movement started after a young boy, only 11 years old, took his life after he was suspended from school for retaliating against a bully. It was originally started by a group of students at Oklahoma State University. Now, the parents of the boy, Ty Field-Smalley, go around talking to schools all over. They've talked to over half a million kids. That's a huge number. The movement really focuses on each individual. They inspire kids to believe in themselves and believe that they are somebody.
Be prepared to tear up... here's the link to their official video: Official Video
I originally heard about this movement through the movie Bully. Right now, it's on Netflix. I seriously encourage you to watch it. Have tissues by you when you do though. Personally, I cried like a baby. Bullying is such a problem, and this movement is making its way across the country trying to change that.
I am such a strong supporter of this because I have been bullied before. I got seriously picked on when I was younger. I used to come home crying from school. And I am just one of many. I love movements like this because it's something huge. Bullying happens every day. Too many kids take their life because they've been bullied. One of the children the movement honors is a young boy who took his life at the age of nine. That's right. NINE. Bullying needs to end, and this movement is a great start to get to that goal.
Here's the link to their site: SFTS. Go check it out. Read the stories, learn about it. Go watch the movie, Bully. What Stand for the Silent is doing is amazing and so inspiring.
In fact, it inspired me so much that I bought a t-shirt, a hoodie, and bracelets. And I proudly wear them. Because I stand for the silent. I stand up for those who feel they can't stand on their own.
I am somebody.
Stand for the Silent is a movement that's dedicated to stopping bullying. This movement started after a young boy, only 11 years old, took his life after he was suspended from school for retaliating against a bully. It was originally started by a group of students at Oklahoma State University. Now, the parents of the boy, Ty Field-Smalley, go around talking to schools all over. They've talked to over half a million kids. That's a huge number. The movement really focuses on each individual. They inspire kids to believe in themselves and believe that they are somebody.
Be prepared to tear up... here's the link to their official video: Official Video
I originally heard about this movement through the movie Bully. Right now, it's on Netflix. I seriously encourage you to watch it. Have tissues by you when you do though. Personally, I cried like a baby. Bullying is such a problem, and this movement is making its way across the country trying to change that.
I am such a strong supporter of this because I have been bullied before. I got seriously picked on when I was younger. I used to come home crying from school. And I am just one of many. I love movements like this because it's something huge. Bullying happens every day. Too many kids take their life because they've been bullied. One of the children the movement honors is a young boy who took his life at the age of nine. That's right. NINE. Bullying needs to end, and this movement is a great start to get to that goal.
Here's the link to their site: SFTS. Go check it out. Read the stories, learn about it. Go watch the movie, Bully. What Stand for the Silent is doing is amazing and so inspiring.
In fact, it inspired me so much that I bought a t-shirt, a hoodie, and bracelets. And I proudly wear them. Because I stand for the silent. I stand up for those who feel they can't stand on their own.
I am somebody.
If you're having a bad day....
I sincerely hope this cheers you up. We all know my personal love of the minions, but seriously. How could they NOT make you smile?
Social Media.
Such a big part of our lives. Could we live without it? Some of us, maybe. It's amazing how all of these social media sites are supposed to keep us linked together, but really they just separate us. It kind of makes me sad and makes me wonder where the world is headed.
BUT. I also think that social media can be really good, too. It's a great way to express yourself. Whether it's through words, or pictures, or videos, social media is a perfect outlet for those feelings you may usually keep inside. It's one reason I started this blog.
For those of you Facebook-ers, my blog has hit Facebook! Here's the link ---> FACEBOOK!
Check it out, and click the like button! Then y'all can stay updated on when I post my ramblings. I can promise these next few weeks are going to be super exciting. I mean, I'm getting married in 16 days, and hopefully will be moving the week after that, and THEN school starts back up! There's so much to do, and I hope you guys keep tuning in to see what's going on in my crazy life.
I also have plans to keep working my way through different Christian books when I'm not reading textbooks. I'm still working on Humility. It's taking me a while because I'm taking it slow and writing notes in a journal I have.
YAY SOCIAL MEDIA!
BUT. I also think that social media can be really good, too. It's a great way to express yourself. Whether it's through words, or pictures, or videos, social media is a perfect outlet for those feelings you may usually keep inside. It's one reason I started this blog.
For those of you Facebook-ers, my blog has hit Facebook! Here's the link ---> FACEBOOK!
Check it out, and click the like button! Then y'all can stay updated on when I post my ramblings. I can promise these next few weeks are going to be super exciting. I mean, I'm getting married in 16 days, and hopefully will be moving the week after that, and THEN school starts back up! There's so much to do, and I hope you guys keep tuning in to see what's going on in my crazy life.
I also have plans to keep working my way through different Christian books when I'm not reading textbooks. I'm still working on Humility. It's taking me a while because I'm taking it slow and writing notes in a journal I have.
YAY SOCIAL MEDIA!
Insecurely.
Over the last few days, I've noticed a video being posted by a bunch of my friends. I didn't really take the time to watch it until today. Now, I regret that I waited so long. What I found was amazing. Turns out the video is part of a whole movement. Here's the link to the video:
Insecurely: A Spoken Word
Watch it, then come back. - What did you think? Pretty good, right? I won't lie, I teared up near the end. Couldn't even help it. I watched it two times in a row. But then I got curious. My friend Sarah had retweeted something about the video. So I found the website for the whole movement. OH EM GEE. It's phenomenal. The entire movement is about girls becoming comfortable with themselves. It's about recognizing your insecurities, but realizing that you aren't defined by your insecurities. The video points out that God made you to be exactly who you are. EMBRACE IT!
Here's the link to their website: Website!
I encourage you to go through the website. I read every single page they had. I think the movement is absolutely amazing. I challenge you to really, truly think about what they are doing and saying. Girls, you are beautiful. Your beauty shines from within you.
I know that insecurities are hard to face. I have insecurities too. But I can also tell you that once you embrace yourself for who you are, your life will change immensely. When I was in high school, particularly my freshman and sophomore year, I pretty much completely put my self worth into the hands of immature boys. I was right in the middle of that awkward stage everyone kind of goes through when you're 13-15. I felt like every time I liked a boy, he told me I was ugly. Or stupid. Or whatever. And I actually started to believe them. It got to the point that I almost hated being called pretty. I thought I was fat, I was ugly, and that nobody would ever like me. That slump was really hard to get out of.
During the summer between my sophomore year and my junior year, my parents split up. It was extremely hard. By the time I was done with my junior year, my mom had moved out and got a boyfriend, my dad had lost his job, and we were moving across town into a much smaller place to live. My entire world had fallen apart in less than a year. At the time, it was so hard. I didn't know what to do. But looking back, I'm so thankful. It helped me realize that there are more important things than "beauty". It got my attention off the way I looked and helped me focus on what really mattered to me - my family.
During that whole experience, my best friend Sicily stood by my side. She comforted me when I cried and she always cheered me up. Now, this girl is confident. I'm sure she has insecurities, but she doesn't let it show. She's very comfortable with who she is. After spending 3 months with her, seeing her literally every day, her confidence rubbed off on me a little. She really inspired me to be comfortable with who I am.
Now, fast forward to last August/September. This was around the time that I became a Christian. Since then, my entire life has changed... for the better. Now I'm okay with my securities. I'm who I'm meant to be. God created me, and I know that I couldn't have made myself any better. Yes, I still have insecurities. There are days when I think "Man, I could lose some weight" or whatever the thought is. But I know that those insecurities don't define me. And they never will.
Watch that video again. Reeeally listen to what he is saying. Soak it in. Read the stories posted on the movement's website. Embrace you who are. Be proud of who you are! You are unique, you are special, and no one else can be YOU! What an exciting thing. There's only one you, so be excited about who you are.
"You are loved. You are valued. You are beautiful."
Insecurely: A Spoken Word
Watch it, then come back. - What did you think? Pretty good, right? I won't lie, I teared up near the end. Couldn't even help it. I watched it two times in a row. But then I got curious. My friend Sarah had retweeted something about the video. So I found the website for the whole movement. OH EM GEE. It's phenomenal. The entire movement is about girls becoming comfortable with themselves. It's about recognizing your insecurities, but realizing that you aren't defined by your insecurities. The video points out that God made you to be exactly who you are. EMBRACE IT!
Here's the link to their website: Website!
I encourage you to go through the website. I read every single page they had. I think the movement is absolutely amazing. I challenge you to really, truly think about what they are doing and saying. Girls, you are beautiful. Your beauty shines from within you.
I know that insecurities are hard to face. I have insecurities too. But I can also tell you that once you embrace yourself for who you are, your life will change immensely. When I was in high school, particularly my freshman and sophomore year, I pretty much completely put my self worth into the hands of immature boys. I was right in the middle of that awkward stage everyone kind of goes through when you're 13-15. I felt like every time I liked a boy, he told me I was ugly. Or stupid. Or whatever. And I actually started to believe them. It got to the point that I almost hated being called pretty. I thought I was fat, I was ugly, and that nobody would ever like me. That slump was really hard to get out of.
During the summer between my sophomore year and my junior year, my parents split up. It was extremely hard. By the time I was done with my junior year, my mom had moved out and got a boyfriend, my dad had lost his job, and we were moving across town into a much smaller place to live. My entire world had fallen apart in less than a year. At the time, it was so hard. I didn't know what to do. But looking back, I'm so thankful. It helped me realize that there are more important things than "beauty". It got my attention off the way I looked and helped me focus on what really mattered to me - my family.
During that whole experience, my best friend Sicily stood by my side. She comforted me when I cried and she always cheered me up. Now, this girl is confident. I'm sure she has insecurities, but she doesn't let it show. She's very comfortable with who she is. After spending 3 months with her, seeing her literally every day, her confidence rubbed off on me a little. She really inspired me to be comfortable with who I am.
Now, fast forward to last August/September. This was around the time that I became a Christian. Since then, my entire life has changed... for the better. Now I'm okay with my securities. I'm who I'm meant to be. God created me, and I know that I couldn't have made myself any better. Yes, I still have insecurities. There are days when I think "Man, I could lose some weight" or whatever the thought is. But I know that those insecurities don't define me. And they never will.
Watch that video again. Reeeally listen to what he is saying. Soak it in. Read the stories posted on the movement's website. Embrace you who are. Be proud of who you are! You are unique, you are special, and no one else can be YOU! What an exciting thing. There's only one you, so be excited about who you are.
"You are loved. You are valued. You are beautiful."
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
NEWSFLASH.
I JUST WANT EVERYONE TO BE AWARE THAT TATTOOS ARE NOT A BAD THING.
Just because a person has a tattoo or two does not mean that they are a horrible person; a horrible employee; or a disgusting person. It simply means that they found something that means something to them and they wanted it forever.
IT'S A FORM OF ART.
It's a way for people to express themselves. It's not deviant, it's not disgusting. It's art that's on a body, rather than a canvas. Different forms of tattoos have been around for centuries. THEY AREN'T ANYTHING NEW.
Saying that you won't do business with a company because you saw a tattoo on the receptionist IS UTTERLY RIDICULOUS. I don't mean any disrespect. Seriously. I don't. But one tattoo does not effect how a business runs. Thompson Sales is the best car dealership in Springfield.
I am so extremely nice to every single customer. My tattoos do not affect that. I treat every customer like they are the most important person I could be talking to at that moment. Several of the salesmen have told me that I'm almost too nice sometimes.
Also, don't call a person's boss because of their tattoos. If you don't like them, tell that person. You could cost a person their job FOR NO REASON.
-end rant-
Just because a person has a tattoo or two does not mean that they are a horrible person; a horrible employee; or a disgusting person. It simply means that they found something that means something to them and they wanted it forever.
IT'S A FORM OF ART.
It's a way for people to express themselves. It's not deviant, it's not disgusting. It's art that's on a body, rather than a canvas. Different forms of tattoos have been around for centuries. THEY AREN'T ANYTHING NEW.
Saying that you won't do business with a company because you saw a tattoo on the receptionist IS UTTERLY RIDICULOUS. I don't mean any disrespect. Seriously. I don't. But one tattoo does not effect how a business runs. Thompson Sales is the best car dealership in Springfield.
I am so extremely nice to every single customer. My tattoos do not affect that. I treat every customer like they are the most important person I could be talking to at that moment. Several of the salesmen have told me that I'm almost too nice sometimes.
Also, don't call a person's boss because of their tattoos. If you don't like them, tell that person. You could cost a person their job FOR NO REASON.
-end rant-
Apartment Hunting Pt. 2
Matthew and I were on the hunt again this morning! We met a lady from Oak Terrace and looked at a two bedroom townhouse! We loved it. It was a little in shambles, because they're repainting and stuff. The people before got evicted and they had been pretty disgusting. I mean, the toilet upstairs was pretty much black. GROSS. They were finishing up the painting and they're doing the cleaning over the next week.
It was really cute! I'm pretty sure we will be able to get it. The lease will start August 1st. Money is going to be extremely tight, since we will be paying two rents for August, but we will make it. I know we will. God will provide.
We're going to turn in our applications on Friday. We're really, really excited. It's going to be such a great home for Matt, Luna, and I. I cannot wait. It's going to be so wonderful to officially start our life together in a new home.
Matthew has an interview at Autozone tomorrow! It was a bit of good news among all the bad. The light at the end of the tunnel, for sure. We're praying that it goes really well! I have faith. It's going to be wonderful.
It was really cute! I'm pretty sure we will be able to get it. The lease will start August 1st. Money is going to be extremely tight, since we will be paying two rents for August, but we will make it. I know we will. God will provide.
We're going to turn in our applications on Friday. We're really, really excited. It's going to be such a great home for Matt, Luna, and I. I cannot wait. It's going to be so wonderful to officially start our life together in a new home.
Matthew has an interview at Autozone tomorrow! It was a bit of good news among all the bad. The light at the end of the tunnel, for sure. We're praying that it goes really well! I have faith. It's going to be wonderful.
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
Apartment Tours Pt. 1
This morning has been crazy. We went to several different apartment complexes. It was quite the interesting experience. Let me tell you!
First we went to Old Monterey. The one bedroom we went in was super tiny, and the lady wasn't very kind. Also, they allow pets in some buildings, but you have to pay a pet deposit and then a pet rent every month. You also have to pay extra every month to have a dishwasher in the unit. Needless to say, we won't be living there.
After that we drove to Hidden Valley Apartments (we forgot the leasing office is at a different location). We walked into one of the buildings and it was super sketch. It smelled weird, it was dark and creepy, and the mailboxes were all bent up and such. We decided not to even go to the leasing office.
Then we drove around by campus and called a couple complexes. Since it's so close to school, there are no openings. After that we just kind of drove around and ended up at Briarwood Village Apartments. So we stopped and talked to the lady and got a tour. It wasn't that bad of a place! I actually liked it quite a bit. We finally headed home, not feeling too let down.
While we were at Briarwood, my mom had looked up some places for us. And she found one that may work out! We're going to check it out tomorrow morning. It's available August 1st, which is just about perfect! I'm really excited to go look at it. I'm still going to do some more research though.
In a couple hours, I will be taking Luna to Sarah's house to stay for a bit. As thankful as I am that she is willing to take Luna, I am so sad. I will miss her so much. I mean, I know that she will be taken care of and stuff, but I will miss cuddling with her. Who knew that a cat could mean so much to me?
First we went to Old Monterey. The one bedroom we went in was super tiny, and the lady wasn't very kind. Also, they allow pets in some buildings, but you have to pay a pet deposit and then a pet rent every month. You also have to pay extra every month to have a dishwasher in the unit. Needless to say, we won't be living there.
After that we drove to Hidden Valley Apartments (we forgot the leasing office is at a different location). We walked into one of the buildings and it was super sketch. It smelled weird, it was dark and creepy, and the mailboxes were all bent up and such. We decided not to even go to the leasing office.
Then we drove around by campus and called a couple complexes. Since it's so close to school, there are no openings. After that we just kind of drove around and ended up at Briarwood Village Apartments. So we stopped and talked to the lady and got a tour. It wasn't that bad of a place! I actually liked it quite a bit. We finally headed home, not feeling too let down.
While we were at Briarwood, my mom had looked up some places for us. And she found one that may work out! We're going to check it out tomorrow morning. It's available August 1st, which is just about perfect! I'm really excited to go look at it. I'm still going to do some more research though.
In a couple hours, I will be taking Luna to Sarah's house to stay for a bit. As thankful as I am that she is willing to take Luna, I am so sad. I will miss her so much. I mean, I know that she will be taken care of and stuff, but I will miss cuddling with her. Who knew that a cat could mean so much to me?
Monday, July 15, 2013
Kitty Relocating and Apartment Hunting.
Well, every day since Friday night has been a crazy, stressful one.
Friday night, when I came home the guard man stopped me to give me a package. He then asked me if I had a cat. I hate lying, so I said yes. He told me that we needed to get rid of it because it's against our lease. Well, you know me. I love my cat like a child and I'm not about to get rid of it. Especially because we'd have to give her to self control and they kill animals! I don't believe in that at all.
We thought we may have some time because we thought the office didn't know about Luna. So we started looking online for apartments or cheap houses in Springfield. We found a couple, and so yesterday we drove around town looking at the areas they are located in. We found a couple we liked, and I called them this morning. Unfortunately some didn't pan out. But a couple still might. We didn't feel all too rushed, but then this morning happened.
Matthew got home from Dillon's and we had a note on our door saying that Luna had to be out of the apartment by 9:00 am Wednesday and that they'd be by to check to see that she was gone and that she does not return. I started freaking out. I mean, where could we put a cat?? No one is down in Springfield yet since it's still summer. Then I thought of Sarah. So I texted her and asked if she and her roommate Erica would be willing to house Luna while we found another place to live. Thank the Lord, she agreed! So I'm taking Luna over to Sarah's tomorrow after she gets off work. I'm so grateful for such amazing friends. The Lord has really blessed me with such awesome friends.
So tomorrow morning we are getting up early and going to look at three different potential places to live. I'm praying that they have something available to us for August and that it's something we can afford. I know the Lord will provide for us, it's just a matter of having faith. Luckily, I have awesome friends and an amazing mom willing to help us out in our time of need.
On a lighter note, we've hit below three weeks to the wedding! Matthew and I are getting so super excited. It sucks we have to worry about all this moving stuff with the wedding so close, but that's alright. Most of the wedding is already planned and ready to go. We just have a couple more details!
They say when it rains, it pours. But I just have to keep in mind that you have to have a little rain to get the rainbow. We can make it through this. We will be guided through it, and it will all work out. This poem really has helped me the last few days. Maybe it'll help you too when you need it.
One night I had a dream...
I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord,
and Across the sky flashed scenes from my life. For each
scene I noticed two sets of footprints in the sand; One
belonged to me, and the other to the Lord. When the last
scene of my life flashed before us, I looked back at the
footprints in the sand. I noticed that many times along the
path of my life, There was only one set of footprints.
I also noticed that it happened at the very lowest and
saddest times in my life This really bothered me, and I
questioned the Lord about it. "Lord, you said that once I
decided to follow you, You would walk with me all the way;
But I have noticed that during the most troublesome times
in my life, There is only one set of footprints. I don't
understand why in times when I needed you the most, you
should leave me.
The Lord replied, "My precious, precious child. I love you,
and I would never, never leave you during your times of
trial and suffering. When you saw only one set of footprints,
It was then that I carried you."
Friday night, when I came home the guard man stopped me to give me a package. He then asked me if I had a cat. I hate lying, so I said yes. He told me that we needed to get rid of it because it's against our lease. Well, you know me. I love my cat like a child and I'm not about to get rid of it. Especially because we'd have to give her to self control and they kill animals! I don't believe in that at all.
We thought we may have some time because we thought the office didn't know about Luna. So we started looking online for apartments or cheap houses in Springfield. We found a couple, and so yesterday we drove around town looking at the areas they are located in. We found a couple we liked, and I called them this morning. Unfortunately some didn't pan out. But a couple still might. We didn't feel all too rushed, but then this morning happened.
Matthew got home from Dillon's and we had a note on our door saying that Luna had to be out of the apartment by 9:00 am Wednesday and that they'd be by to check to see that she was gone and that she does not return. I started freaking out. I mean, where could we put a cat?? No one is down in Springfield yet since it's still summer. Then I thought of Sarah. So I texted her and asked if she and her roommate Erica would be willing to house Luna while we found another place to live. Thank the Lord, she agreed! So I'm taking Luna over to Sarah's tomorrow after she gets off work. I'm so grateful for such amazing friends. The Lord has really blessed me with such awesome friends.
So tomorrow morning we are getting up early and going to look at three different potential places to live. I'm praying that they have something available to us for August and that it's something we can afford. I know the Lord will provide for us, it's just a matter of having faith. Luckily, I have awesome friends and an amazing mom willing to help us out in our time of need.
On a lighter note, we've hit below three weeks to the wedding! Matthew and I are getting so super excited. It sucks we have to worry about all this moving stuff with the wedding so close, but that's alright. Most of the wedding is already planned and ready to go. We just have a couple more details!
They say when it rains, it pours. But I just have to keep in mind that you have to have a little rain to get the rainbow. We can make it through this. We will be guided through it, and it will all work out. This poem really has helped me the last few days. Maybe it'll help you too when you need it.
One night I had a dream...
I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord,
and Across the sky flashed scenes from my life. For each
scene I noticed two sets of footprints in the sand; One
belonged to me, and the other to the Lord. When the last
scene of my life flashed before us, I looked back at the
footprints in the sand. I noticed that many times along the
path of my life, There was only one set of footprints.
I also noticed that it happened at the very lowest and
saddest times in my life This really bothered me, and I
questioned the Lord about it. "Lord, you said that once I
decided to follow you, You would walk with me all the way;
But I have noticed that during the most troublesome times
in my life, There is only one set of footprints. I don't
understand why in times when I needed you the most, you
should leave me.
The Lord replied, "My precious, precious child. I love you,
and I would never, never leave you during your times of
trial and suffering. When you saw only one set of footprints,
It was then that I carried you."
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Birthday Shenanigans
Yesterday I turned 20. It was a crazy, wonderful day. I felt so blessed.
The morning started off rough, thanks to the DMV. We got there early (I was number 4) only to find out that a Social Security card isn't proof enough of citizenship. Which I believe is ridiculous. You need either a birth certificate with a raised seal or a passport. So Matt and I had to go all the way home to get ours. By the time we got back, I was number 36 and they were on 17. I was soooo angry. But Matt and I finally got our new licenses! Of course, we have to carry an 8x11 piece of paper for almost 2 weeks. But no big deal.
After that we went to the mall to kill time. I wanted new sunglasses, so we went to Charming Charlie's. I ended up getting new sunglasses with a giraffe pattern and a cute new purse! I'm in love with it. Here's us killing time:
I had to go to work though. So that was kind of a bummer. But it ended up being okay. My boss got me a cake! It was absolutely delicious and I shared it with all the guys.
Isn't the cake cute!? It was soooo good. I also got a hat!
I feel super official now that I have a hat. It's my only hat that I own. No big. Work went by fast, thankfully. When I got off, I went and tried on my wedding dress again. Sadly, it's a bit tight (I blame the cake). So I will be starting to run and diet so it won't be as tight. But it zipped! That's what matters.
After that, Matt and I went to a new restaurant that we've never been to. It's called Nakato! It's a Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar. So they cook in front of you! We got to sit at the table where you take off your shoes and sit on the floor. It was quite the experience.
I loved it! Our service was AMAZING, and the food was more than delicious. I even tried shrimp for the first time in YEARS. It was alright.
Toward the end of the meal, our waitress and two or three others came out carrying a dessert and singing a song. It was cute and super embarrassing.
Then they took a picture of us! Turns out when Matt had made the reservations they had offered the "birthday special". They give you dessert, song, and a free picture! Here's the picture:
I would definitely recommend going to Nakato. Matt got me a Despicable Me 2 poster for my birthday! We all know my obsession with the Minions. (They're so cute!)
All in all, it was an amazing birthday. I loved every second of it. What a wonderful life I live. God is so good.
The morning started off rough, thanks to the DMV. We got there early (I was number 4) only to find out that a Social Security card isn't proof enough of citizenship. Which I believe is ridiculous. You need either a birth certificate with a raised seal or a passport. So Matt and I had to go all the way home to get ours. By the time we got back, I was number 36 and they were on 17. I was soooo angry. But Matt and I finally got our new licenses! Of course, we have to carry an 8x11 piece of paper for almost 2 weeks. But no big deal.
After that we went to the mall to kill time. I wanted new sunglasses, so we went to Charming Charlie's. I ended up getting new sunglasses with a giraffe pattern and a cute new purse! I'm in love with it. Here's us killing time:
I had to go to work though. So that was kind of a bummer. But it ended up being okay. My boss got me a cake! It was absolutely delicious and I shared it with all the guys.
Isn't the cake cute!? It was soooo good. I also got a hat!
I feel super official now that I have a hat. It's my only hat that I own. No big. Work went by fast, thankfully. When I got off, I went and tried on my wedding dress again. Sadly, it's a bit tight (I blame the cake). So I will be starting to run and diet so it won't be as tight. But it zipped! That's what matters.
After that, Matt and I went to a new restaurant that we've never been to. It's called Nakato! It's a Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar. So they cook in front of you! We got to sit at the table where you take off your shoes and sit on the floor. It was quite the experience.
I loved it! Our service was AMAZING, and the food was more than delicious. I even tried shrimp for the first time in YEARS. It was alright.
Toward the end of the meal, our waitress and two or three others came out carrying a dessert and singing a song. It was cute and super embarrassing.
Then they took a picture of us! Turns out when Matt had made the reservations they had offered the "birthday special". They give you dessert, song, and a free picture! Here's the picture:
I would definitely recommend going to Nakato. Matt got me a Despicable Me 2 poster for my birthday! We all know my obsession with the Minions. (They're so cute!)
All in all, it was an amazing birthday. I loved every second of it. What a wonderful life I live. God is so good.
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
Bronchitis.
Sorry the lack of posts, friends! I've been super sick since Saturday and have been doing nothing other than eating grilled cheese and soup and sleeping. I've slept so much in the last few days, it's been wonderful!
Some cool things have happened though! Matthew's wedding band came in, so now we have both! They're awesome.
Also, I tried Qdoba for the first time last night! It was absolutely delicious.
I must say that I actually might like it more than Chipotle! & there's one about 2 minutes down the road from me ;)
My birthday is in less than a week... and I don't even care? Oops.
Some cool things have happened though! Matthew's wedding band came in, so now we have both! They're awesome.
Also, I tried Qdoba for the first time last night! It was absolutely delicious.
My birthday is in less than a week... and I don't even care? Oops.
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