on my way.

A proud announcement:

2011-04-19T23:49:00.000-07:00

I have completed not just one, but two of the things on my "to do before I move" list. Some sweet friends and I traveled down to LA for a girls night done right. It began with a trip to the Farmers Market at the Grove for some dinner and ended with my first experience at Millions of Milkshakes, and as always there were a few more spontaneous adventures along the way.

Surprise, surprise.

2011-04-16T16:08:00.000-07:00

I think the only time I find my way onto this little guy is when I'm stressing, or day-dreaming, about graduation, moving, and starting a very new and big season in life. Its as though I need to spill my heart out in hope that maybe, somebody will read and completely understand how I'm feeling. So fingers crossed, that one of you knows the excitement and anxiousness of moving on from something wonderful to a place equally as beautiful. I find myself no longer in worry, but instead, in awe of God's perfect timing, and how He has orchestrated all things good.

Well, if it hasn't been evident in previous posts, I like lists. They keep me sane. Since Im moving from the great state of California, I made a list of things I absolutely, positively, hopefully, will be able to do before I leave in less than a month.

Without further ado:

-Downtown Los Angeles: to partake in the eating of some lovely little restaurant

-Old Towne Orange: for exploring, antiquing, gelato, and a trip to Bruxie.

-Balboa Park/Downtown San Diego: for education and entertainment alike

-Balboa Beach/Balboa Island: to relive my childhood through rollerblades, tan lines, and balboa bars

-Medieval Times: its fun fun fun and I have free passes!!

-Disneyland: because my poor little annual pass wont get any use after May 10th, may it rest in peace

-Millions of Milkshakes: because somehow I havent been yet..

Its a Friday night.

2011-04-08T20:27:00.001-07:00

And here I am, up to my elbows in craft supplies. My guy has opening night tonight and my roommates are nowhere to be seen, so its just me, cheesy movies, and the contents of my cherished craft suitcase. Therapy, that's precisely what tonight is. ONE month until I graduate from college, and I am feeling the pressure. I find myself having a hard time switching between the collegiate mindset and the one where I'm a thriving, passionate, about-to-be 22 year old. Papers, projects, fieldwork, research, blah blah blah. I dream about the day when a chunk of time that was once used for homework can be devoted to blogging, ah, the magic. And with a day that hit the 90's last week, it was almost more than I could bear. Today, however, is gloomy and drizzling, and for that I am thankful. Here's to a weekend of staying in and dominating my assignments. Aside from, of course, a trip to the Museum of Natural History in LA, for purely extra credit reasons, and possibly church on Sunday, because lets face it, I'm going to need that more that an extra two hours of homework.

Just a quick catch up..

18 days until my much anticipated to trip to Georgia
29 days until I walk across a stage in front of a terrifying amount of people and receive a diploma
& 32 days until I leave everything I've known to start my post-college life in Bend, Oregon

Now, if you'll excuse me, it's about time to go make a cake, because I can.

the daunting inevitability that is: adulthood.

2011-03-16T12:58:00.000-07:00

"When I grow up I would like to be a combination of Lucille Ball, Martha Stewart, and Elisabeth Elliot. "

Yep, thats what I Tumbled the other day, and I meant it! Growing up, I Love Lucy was always playing on the living room TV. Lucille Ball has impecable style and a sense humor to boot. I certainly find myself amidst some crazy antics at times, but none quite as clever or far fetched as Lucy's. Martha Stewart, some may knock her, but boy do I have respect for that woman. She is so insanely talented! I just want to soak up all of her knowledge about delicious cooking, sewing, crafting, fabulous party throwing, gardening, oh my! Now Elisabeth Elliot, besides having a fabulous name, is a true inspiration. She is without a doubt one of the most influential Christian woman of the century. After the brutal killing of her husband in the mission field, Elisabeth proceeded to live with and love the very tribe responsible for his death. Showing them the true, tangible love of Christ and sharing the gospel with them. Ah, chills. If you aren't familiar with her story, I challenge you to read more about it, you will not be disappointed.

As I get ready to finish out my college career and start life in a different state, away from the things that have been steadfast and familiar these past twenty-two years, a lot of poignant things have been on my heart. Most importantly, continuing to find my identity as a woman, and find it in Christ. I came across this saved on my computer yesterday (and I could just kick myself, but it's source is unfortunately unknown). It's a sort of 'do's and dont's' list for the new year or just life in general, and while it lacks the direct correlation to a life lived for Christ, it has a lot of very valid and useful tips.

Health:

Drink plenty of water.
Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar.
Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.
Live with the 3 E’s - Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy
Play more games.
Read more books than you did in 2010.
Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.
Sleep for 7 hours.
Take a 10-30 minutes walk daily. And while you walk, smile.

Personality:

Don’t compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
Don’t have negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.
Don’t over do. Keep your limits.
Don’t take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
Don’t waste your precious energy on gossip.
Dream more while you are awake.
Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
Forget issues of the past. Don’t remind your partner with his/her mistakes of the past. That will ruin your present happiness.
Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don’t hate others.
Make peace with your past so it won’t spoil the present.
No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
Smile and laugh more.
You don’t have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

Society:

Call your family often.
Each day give something good to others.
Forgive everyone for everything.
Spend time with people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6.
Try to make at least three people smile each day.
What other people think of you is none of your business.
Your job won’t take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.

Life:

Do the right thing!
Get rid of anything that isn’t useful, beautiful or joyful.
However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
The best is yet to come.
Your inner most is always happy. So, be happy.

God is so faithful and I'm reminded of that by two verses in particular these days as one season is coming to a close and a new one is beginning.

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us"

Ephesians 3:20

"The heart of man plans his ways, but the Lord establishes his steps"

Proverbs 16:9

25 before 25

2011-03-15T15:30:00.000-07:00

Well, here it is, the infamous list of things I hope to accomplish in the next 3 years. Yikes, talk about pressure. I crave adventure, and while some of these things may not seem daring or exciting, I guarantee I will be ecstatic each time a new one is completed. And, I solemnly swear to share some form of documentation of my joys.

Without further ado:

1. Ride in a hot air balloon

2. Restore a piece of furniture

3. Learn how to properly use a sewing machine

4. Journal through the Bible chronologically

5. Get a tattoo..yikes

6. Have a vast collection of cookbooks

7. Own a prestigious amount of globes, all different colors and sizes

8. Learn to flawlessly tie a bow tie and neck tie

9. Create a line of stationary

10. Visit the east coast

11. Visit somewhere in the 10/40 window

12. Learn how to knit with ease

13. Meet a PENGUIN

14. Plan/throw/coordinate a successful party, or a hundred

15. Build a teepee

16. Jumpstart a so called Random Acts of Kindness campaign

17. Perfect the art of carving rubber stamps

18. Finally have my own furry, yet lovable companion

19. Have my very own neatly organized and impeccably decorated creative work space

20. Cultivate my very own vegetable, fruit, and herb garden

21. Keep a daily photo journal [must first own camera, ugh]

22. Eat out of a two sided ice cream cone

23. Paint something significant with chalkboard, like a wall, a door, or a globe even

24. Stay at a bed and breakfast and/or take a road trip in a vintage Airstream

25. Play outside significantly more

(source)

On another note, I came across that picture this morning and I feel that it describes beautifully the hope that is found in Christ.

saturday.

2011-03-05T13:32:00.000-08:00

Hmm, well people, it is indeed the weekend, thank the Lord. Today promises relaxation and giggles. Truthfully the relaxation has already commenced. And for the curious, here's a bit of insight into my day:

As always, Friends serves as the background noise for my apartment, today it's Season 4.

I cant stop perusing this lovely blog. This woman is seriously inspirational. Sheesh.

I've rediscovered the beauty and versatility of the hard boiled egg, which I'll cook perfectly from here on out thanks to this clever contraption.

A pair of these would be ever so loved by my feet, honest. Elden in olive please.

I fully intend on supporting this cause by purchasing one of these to around my neck.

I am determined to eat at one of the many prestigious food trucks in LA before packing my bags in May.

Today I will be starting a long overdue inspiration notebook of sorts, in which I will record brilliant ideas and lovely things as they make their way to my brain.

Well, other than tying up the loose ends of my online class, I will be spending time with dear friends, dying hair, playing with a puppy, and catching up. This is where the giggling comes in.

since we last spoke

2011-02-28T20:30:00.000-08:00

i embarked on a delightful little road trip with my guy and our dear friends caleb & ashley. it was mighty adventurous to say the least. a six hour drive in a almost hilariously tiny kia rio and a total of 24 hours of train rides made for various muscle cramps, spasms, and an array of body parts falling asleep. still, the view from the window and a constant intake of junk food maintained equilibrium until we finally made it to blissful bend, oregon. we were privileged to attend an utterly convicting and inspiring justice conference. we stayed with some of my favorite people, ate the most delicious food made with locally grown ingredients, drank kombucha, and made life-long memories. our trip came to a close with some valentines day bargain hunting and a last meal around the reynolds table with a classic game of 'freeze'.

only 70 days until i make that sweet little place my home.

also...

we made a pit stop in san fran, saw a banksy original gasp, ate at boudin, and walked about 45 blocks.

well hello 2011.

2011-01-01T23:05:00.000-08:00

there are 40 minutes left of the first day of the new year, and I already feel ridiculously blessed and excited for what these next 12 months will hold.

but alas, my resurfacing is a short one due to immense exhaustion. tomorrow starts my rekindled relationship with my little blog and I couldn't be more excited.

until then,

be joyful.

i am still convinced that i need this.

2010-11-04T15:57:00.000-07:00

so the more i have thought about this swanky little bike, the more i am certain that this is not just an extravagant want, its a need. I am moving post graduation to the wonderful state of Oregon. people there embrace the world of biking in many ways, including day to day transportation. sadly, i dont have a car so biking would be quite practical for me. but then what happens when i need to grocery shop..? how on earth will i carry my bags? thats where this comes in handy..

fidgity.

2010-09-14T19:17:00.000-07:00

i think that may be the best word to describe my tuesday. today was a sick day, on a day when my to-do list consisted of 21 important things. yet, even though i have next to no energy, every forty five minutes or so my body will allow a solid five minutes of productivity. and i am proud to say that i completed a whole 7 things from that list. thats one third, i'll take it. today has been full of netflix ADD, emailing, tea, and toast. toast that, in fact, was only made possible by my sweet boyfriend who surprised me at my front door with his toaster in one hand and a loaf of bread in the other. the day has also been filled with american pickers, my newest guilty pleasure. is there any chance of finding rusty gold in the backroads of riverside? doubtful, but one can dream. i somehow feel as though its mid november already, my mind is getting a little ahead of itself, but you see, im just so excited. this semester promises wonderful things, and i cant wait to journey through these next three months.

also..

here are some photos that make me smile, some old, some new.

a wonderful roommate who lets me call her silly nicknames

a family that i miss ever so dearly

& a friend who makes me laugh like nobody else

fearfully & wonderfully made

2010-09-07T09:45:00.000-07:00

psalm 139 is an encouraging reminder of the Lord's greatest gift, allowing us to know Him. but still, he knows ME and he knows me because he has searched me. i was fearfully and wonderfully made, i cannot count the number of times i heard that growing up in church. and while i could never tire of being reminded of that beautiful truth, this morning i desired to dig deeper. what exactly does it mean to be fearfully and wonderfully made? it turns out that fearfully comes from the greek word yare' , a verb literally meaning, to cause astonishment and awe OR to inspire Godly fear or awe. We were made to bare the image of God, created to cause astonishment by our way of living and in turn inspire reverence toward our creator. but wonderfully didn't seem too difficult to comprehend. from simply reading the verse i assumed it to be synonymous with words like beautiful or flawless, but boy was i wrong. it has nothing to do with looks or our physical make up at all. rather, palah, the word originally used, means to be set apart or distinguished. verse 14 gained so much more depth and relevance for me this morning. being fearfully and wonderfully made has nothing to do with the fleeting condition of our physical bodies, but rather with the purpose we were created for. it matters not what we look like or what our current physical condition may be. for these things dont alter the ability to be an image barer of Christ and to ultimately carry out our purpose for being created and i thank God for that.

also...

psalm 139:23 is my constant prayer in times like these where my last year of college is already going by too fast and life as an adult approaches rather quickly. it is so bittersweet and my mind could be occupied for hours exploring possibilities. but instead of spending countless hours worrying, i can find rest in giving my anxious thoughts over to the Lord, trusting in His way above my own and confident that he knows me and in turn knows whats best.

september the first.

2010-09-01T21:17:00.000-07:00

first day of the month.

first day of classes.

first day of my last year of college. holy moly that is unbelievable.

since august 9th i have been going, and going, and going and i'll be honest, im tired. i need rest, not just sleep or lack of busyness, but what i need is the peace that comes from knowing that my God is faithful and He is in control. im still incredibly encouraged by matthew 6:33-34. it serves as such a reassurance that God takes care of us. he knows my needs and he will meet them. not only does he want to meet them, but according to ephesians 20 he is able to give us "immeasurably more than ALL we could ask or imagine". this summer one of the biggest things i learned was how essential times of solitude were for me. in order to remain sane and to avoid trying to do things on my own, i must force myself to stop, be still, and keep quiet and listen. im actually quite good at listening when someone in sitting in front of me talking but im learning to tune my heart to the voice of my God and the leading of his holy spirit. in a lovely time of prayer and rejoicing with a few friends last week i was encouraged by a quote my sweet friend shared "the ear listens with curiosity but the heart listens with obedience" i am slowly but surely learning to listen with my heart. its tricky business.

even when im insanely exhausted, over sensitive, and borderline grumpy, i am amazed by the love i feel from those around me. i am so blessed by friends who encourage and show me the love of Christ through their words and actions alike.

also...

i dont think ive ever been happier. this handsome guy makes me smile this big quite often.

two weeks is the new two days.

2010-08-28T23:42:00.000-07:00

i seem to have been neglecting to blog consistently lately. if im being honest, consistency isnt something that has been in my vocabulary at all since i've been back in california. instead the word has been replaced by others, such as, unpredictability, flexibility, and humility. it would only be appropriate to use crazy or tiring to appropriately sum up these past three weeks of being back on campus at CBU. still, the connotation of these words is of a surprisingly positive nature. my time so far is one of being stretched, taught, challenged and ultimately forced to draw near to my God. i have learned so much about love. loving when you're moving furniture in 106 degree heat, loving when you didn't get your ideal 8 hours of sleep the night prior, and still loving even when you cant find a seat in the caf because incoming freshmen have invaded campus. i have been so encouraged by those around me through their positivity, transparency & honesty, and affirming words. half of my residents have moved in and the remaining girls will be arriving tomorrow. im so looking forward to hearing each and every one of their unique and intricate stories, to hear about the journey the Lord has brought them through and getting to glimpse into where He is taking them. i find it such a privilege to be a part of these girls lives for the next nine months, to learn from them and with them.

the other morning i was able to have a delightful breakfast with two girls on my staff. i was so encouraged by our conversation about the word. a verse that is SO incredibly challenging in my walk is matthew 6:33, but somehow i forget the powerful verse that follows.

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

matthew 6:34

also...

these are some pictures of my staff, up women 10-11. they are all such gorgeous women of God and i dearly love each and every one and appreciate greatly the ways that we are all so unique

busy little bee.

2010-08-13T23:48:00.000-07:00

that is what ive been for the past two weeks.

week number one consisted of me saying 'see ya later' to bend, oregon.

it was so incredibly bittersweet.

week number two, this past week, has been busy and full of blessings.

i flew home saturday, spent time with my favorite guy and family, shopped for some essentials on sunday, and moved back into my on-campus apartment on monday. holy moly. talk about rushed, but i wouldnt have had it any other way. training has been challenging but so fun. i LOVE love love my staff and cant wait to start this new school year.

also...

here is a parade of pictures from our internship farewell banquet at a swanky restaurant on the rooftop of a building downtown.

oh wednesday.

2010-07-28T11:09:00.000-07:00

im laying on my bedroom floor listening to this and thinking through the things i will get done today.

-call Financial Aid

[ because making sure i have financial clearance for the fall semester is pretty important ]

-GAP

[ because im currently addicted. but dont worry its just a return, or maybe an exchange if im feeling fancy ]

-make a trip to shevlin to collect rocks

[ because i fell in love with shevlin park and want something other than mosquito bites as my souvenir ]

-get flight details

[ because i fly home in 9 days ]

-write BOTH congo stories

[ because its almost august and mission kids will need a new child profile ]

-go through my bookmarks menu

[ because i have way to many random things saved there]

-maybe a skype date with this guy

[ because its been a few days ]

also..

i cant decide if nine days feels like too short of a time or if it feels like forever.

on my heart.

2010-07-26T01:27:00.000-07:00

"Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."

Psalm 139:23-24

my mind and my heart are full. the reality is, i have a lot to process through and with that comes the tendency to become anxious. i trust my God, and these next two weeks are going to require intentional time of being still & getting on my knees to pray.

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers."

Galatians 6:9-10

verse 9 has been something i've meditated on and kept close to my heart since last fall. it was encouragement and motivation through a time where i felt overwhelmed and weary. even though this season im in now is entirely different, i can still find rest in the promise of this scripture. these last two weeks of my internship i am choosing to really dig into verse 10. i am surrounded by incredible people who belong to the family of believers and with my big summer project done, what an awesome opportunity i have to put this into action.

also...

this is what i got to do on 'option day'

sparks lake. bend, oregon.

a few thoughts

2010-07-21T01:03:00.000-07:00

before i attempt to fall asleep.

one: my body apparently takes sleep for granted these days.

two: tomorrow i will be embarking on round two of what has now become an annual white water rafting trip

three: i serve a faithful God

four: i need to stop purchasing things at garage sales. no matter how lovely, vintage, or reasonable priced they are.

five: i really want to sew something

also..

this video brings the biggest smile to my face every time i watch it. actually, every time i even think about it. yep.

ten days later.

2010-07-19T23:33:00.000-07:00

and ten days closer to being back in california.

i only have seventeen days left with the beautiful city of bend, oregon.

i have never experienced something that better epitomizes the word bittersweet.

i have fallen in love with bend: the people who know the true meaning of community, the church that has shown me what a functioning body of Christ looks like and inspired me to focus on and utilize my God given strengths to glorify my creator, and the incredible display of Gods creation that is everywhere. in my eyes, everything about this place is desirable. except, of course, for the fact that it is missing everything i love about california.

this may very well be the most difficult and trying change ive ever encountered in my twenty-one years of life. this is big and quite a large piece of my heart is here in bend, with these people, this church and this place. with the friends i've made, projects ive devoted myself to like [this], and adventures ive embarked on, how could i expect it to be any different.

i know the Lord has a plan for my life, and it is far greater than i could even hope or imagine for myself. im excited to see how things unfold over this next year or so. and in the mean time, i can't wait to get back to the things i love.

i am positively ecstatic to return home to:

a family who supports me

friends who encourage me

a incredibly handsome guy who has more than exceeded every one of my expectations

a school year full of unique ministry opportunities

living in an apartment with three lovely ladies

"Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." Psalm 139:23-24

holiness.

2010-07-09T11:30:00.000-07:00

we sing songs about holiness being what we long for and what we need.

but it is something we can and will never fully achieve.

even so we must live our life in pursuit of holiness.

its really hard for my mind to wrap around that.

And they were calling to one another:

"Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty;

the whole earth is full of his glory."

isaiah 6:3

the word holy in this passage comes from the Greek word קָדוֹשׁ, which literally means pure or clean.

it is only by the grace of God that i will ever be viewed that way. but all i know is that i can strive for holiness, with the knowledge that i'll fall short, and simply take it day by day.

something i was challenged with this morning was the difference between kindness and goodness. at a glance, they seem synonymous, but when you dig deeper, you see that even though you need one to have the other, they are quite different.

"kindness is a sincere desire for the happiness of others; goodness is the activity calculated to advance that happiness...kindness is the inner disposition and goodness is kindness is action"

-jerry bridges the fruitful life

also...

i dont know what im going to do a month from now without these kiddos and their water fights, tray nights, dance moves, and just plain silliness.

59 degrees.

2010-06-30T12:58:00.000-07:00

these blue skies sure are deceiving

its way too cold for a boating day (plan one)

and not even warm enough for a day by the pool (plan two)

however, its perfect weather for a movie and a late lunch

(can you say happy hour price mediterranean plateee. YUM!)

im currently sitting outside with what seem like permanent goosebumps.

so worth it when it means i get to soak up time with these crazy kiddos.

i am completely exhausted today. my goodness. nothing a chai wont fix. tonight i get to hang out with the fam, eat yummy dinner, do some laundry, and sleep in my very own bed.

wednesday is proving to be a nice mid week refresher.

also...

i sent out some mail today.

2010-06-29T10:35:00.000-07:00

its been more than a week since ive had time to devote to this little guy. not to say that i havent had any time at all, as a matter of fact i've had nothing BUT time. my moments have been filled with wonderful things, such as investing in new friendships, having spontaneous garage sale hunts, playing with some pretty cool kiddos, posing for a little photo shoot, and pouring into my summer project.

since being here in bend, ive heard a term that describes perfectly where i am at in life

sweet spot: being at a place in life where you are perfectly content, in who you are, what youre doing, where you're going, and what you have. all of these through and by the grace of God.

ladies and gentlemen, i am in my sweet spot.

i dont know of a time in my life where i have been so completely and wonderfully in awe of who my God is and the things He is doing in my life. He has given me life and love in abundant measures.

The family I am staying with has been such an encouragement in so many unique ways. Their family dynamics are an amazing example of what a family growing together and seeking the Lord should look like. Almost every night they share how they showed love that day and what they loved most about life. It is something I've now begun to share daily with someone whom I care about deeply, and I hope to continue the tradition.

also...

im really thankful for my dear friend whitney. she is part of my mentorship small group, shares a shift with me at the kilns, and has such sweet and genuine spirit. we have the opportunity to house/babysit this week. last night we watercolored until 1am. it was lovely and incredibly inspirational.

speaking of inspiration. i stumble upon some wonderful things every now and again. like this.

the epic weekend ahead.

2010-06-14T14:17:00.000-07:00

includes

a trip to portland and then the oregon coast for some surf, fun, and beach time.

a trip to seattle with the high schoolers for some swell bonding time, lots of laughs, a mariners game, and the lovely pikes place.

cannot WAIT.

also...

these are just adorable. stationary makes me so excited.

(source)

tumalo falls.

2010-06-14T11:13:00.000-07:00

saturday morning i met a couple of lovely ladies downtown. we decided to be spontaneous and have a picnic at a waterfall, thank you oregon. it was such a wonderful reminder of how amazing our God is, and how blessed we are that he made such a beautiful place for us to live.

personality muscles.

2010-06-13T01:35:00.000-07:00

last week i took the strengths finder 2.0 test. now this wasnt my first encounter with strengths finder, but it had been a while.

the first semester of my freshman year at cbu i took a version of the test.

my top five strengths in fall of 2007 were:

woo-woo stands for winning others over. you enjoy the challenge of meeting new people and getting them to like you

command-command leads you to take charge. unlike some people you feel no discomfort imposing your views upon others

positivity-you are generous with praise, quick to smile, and always on the lookout for the positive in the situation

empathy-you can sense the emotions of those around you. you can feel what they are feeling as though their feelings are your own.

communication-you like to explain, to describe, to host, to speak in public, and to write.

a week ago i took the test again, but this time the 2.0 version (im assuming it must be more accurate) and my top five strengths are now:

woo-woo stands for winning others over. you enjoy the challenge of meeting new people and getting them to like you

communication-you like to explain, to describe, to host, to speak in public, and to write.

activator-you are impatient for action. you believe that action is the best device for learning.

positivity-you are generous with praise, quick to smile, and always on the lookout for the positive in the situation

ideation-you are fascinated by ideas. you are delighted when you discover beneath the complex surface of an elegantly simple concept to explain why things are the way they are.

these sorts of tests or so interesting to me. i can definitely see why my number one hasnt changed. but its fascinating how the next four have shifted or changed.

being able to share and discuss these with other interns was so eye opening. it helped me learn why i work the way i do, and why others may not function identically.

thank you strengths finder, thank you very much.

also...

i had the most amaaazzzing experience as i walked to my car after babysitting at one this morning. STARS. like i had never ever experienced them before. i will be star gazing more often this summer.

where to begin.

2010-06-11T23:59:00.000-07:00

lets start with the fact that i slept in until noon today. blah, so awful. i hate oversleeping normally, but this was a special circumstance. my body has been fighting off an icky cough for about a month and a half now, so i suppose my immune system jumped at the chance to get those 14 hours of sleep. so, youre welcome.

now for business, sort of. so far my time here in bend hasnt seemed like typical work at all. despite the fact that i am always doing something and have several sweet yet time consuming projects to tackle in these 9 weeks, there is such joy and satisfaction in every moment.

my family. my bend family to be a bit more specific. im staying with brandon and karie. they have been so gracious and wonderful to open up their home to me. brandon's joy and energy are so contagious and encouraging and karie is such an awesome example of what a godly wife and mother looks like. they have already blessed me tremendously. their four kids are undeniably adorable. they have me laughing continuously and constantly keep me on my toes. im sure once we all discover photobooth together i will have plenty of pictures to post.

my job. well to put it simply, my job rocks. i get to work with an incredible staff, a super sweet leadership team, and the coolest group of fellow interns i could have imagined. whether we are all working separately on projects or walking to the old mill for lunch its nice to have them around. my ministry focus being in children's ministry means that i get to do something that is so close to my heart. im working on a project called mission kids, which i will be dedicating a post to soon. linda is my ministry focus leader and when the two of us get together we become an unstoppable and sometimes overwhelming duo of energy, motivation, and giggles. im dabbling a bit in music while im up here, of course, and i get to work on the creation of the antioch church choir. i am so excited for this opportunity, i do have my fair share of choir experience.

other. i honestly and truly believe that i've made some life long friends. i love that im paired up with a super wonderful mentor and two equally lovely group members. im in a ping pong tournament that im sure to lose in the first round. i drive the 'cranberry cruiser' or more fondly known as the 'hubby hunter' which is a dark reddish purpley mini-van. i love it up here, and am praying about moving back after graduation, yikes! i could find a new yummy place to eat lunch at every day. coffee shops/tea houses are my new favorite place to go get work done. monday night craft nights are going to teach me so many new things. i love my new-found love for the outdoors; rock climbing, scaling, hiking, biking, running, river floating, river rafting, kayaking, and monday morning boot camp.

it is such a lovely blessing to have wonderfully talented photographers like marianne here.

smith rock.

my headband from craft night #1

more from smith rock.

more of the beautiful view.

i know im leaving out half of the cool things about this place, these people, and my last two weeks. but this is all i've got for now.

also...

im praying for some wisdom over this next week. so thankful that my God is faithful.

man, oh man.

2010-06-10T23:12:00.000-07:00

things have been absolutely crazy. like the good, wonderful, beautiful, makes you want to dance, kind of crazy.

tomorrow is a semi free day, so fingers crossed, i'll be blogging about my first two weeks in lovely bend, oregon.

ive been so encouraged by every aspect of my surroundings these past two weeks, and i cant wait to share.

but for now here are some things i love most about downtown bend.

mc menamins

converted school house turned to a restaurant, pub, music venue, hotel, three dollar theater (complete with happy hour tots), and a turkish soaking pool.

thump coffee

who could pass up free wifi while sipping a spicy mayan gold mocha or tasty direct trade coffee, not me!

townshend's tea house

i love having a teapot of yummy chai on the table being warmed by a tea light underneath or grabbing a bubble tea, since they aren't easy to come by up here.

also...

ive decided to cleanse from social networking for a week. im not sure if blogging counts yet, we shall see.

meditating on ephesians 5:8-21.

well, well, well..

2010-05-26T00:17:00.001-07:00

yep, its true.

how much, you ask..

more than this

which i happen to kind of adore

so there

today was just lovely, exactly as predicted.

also...

did i mention how incredibly blessed i am. im going to make a list in my new journal.

oh, and i leave for oregon in four days!

wanderings of the mind.

2010-05-25T00:13:00.000-07:00

they're bound to happen when one is as tired as i am. nevertheless. here's what im thinkin

i still like the disney channel
ive been really brave today, i killed two yucky bugs and caught a lizard in my mom's bedroom
i wish i could successfully pull a tablecloth out from underneath a beautifully set table
i leave in four days for what has the potential for being one of the greatest adventures of my life
im glad i just had my favorite late night snack peanut butter captain crunch
i could reeeeaaaallly use a manicure
tomorrow is going to be a lovely day
i love continuing to learn about GRACE
im sore from running more that i have in quite some time, yessssss
i cant wait until my clothes are back from the dry cleaners
I GET TO SEE MY BROTHER for three whole days
im intimidated by the garage sale happening at my house this weekend
im thankful for my fathers indian heritage
i miss skype dates, like tonight.
i rely on the word of god, through all things

"Trust in the lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take."

proverbs 3:5-6

i love that trusting in the lord is all i have to do. thats all. granted, not an easy task, by any means, but in the past few weeks ive picked up this new tendency to over analyze. really, i mean reeeaaaaly, its not up to me, or my elaborate plans, or rationalizations. sure god has the ability to bless some half thought out mediocre plan, and work it together for good. but i dont want something that has to be worked together and turned into good, id rather have gods perfect will, please and thank you. so for the time being im going to stop worrying about the future so much and enjoy the awesome blessings before me right now. im happy, like REAL happy, and i can find rest in the fact that if i continue to seek his will in all i do, he will direct my ways.

also...

i wish i could go see two of my roommates who are in the same city as me at this very moment.

herbaceous peonies

2010-05-22T11:31:00.000-07:00

i love my mom. as i've gotten older i've learned to truly appreciate our relationship, who she is as a woman, not just a mom, her love for the lord and the evidence of that in her life and interactions with others.

i promise we're serious sometimes. and she'd probably highly dislike these, but they are just the only pictures i have on my new computer.

she took off the week before i leave for oregon, so we can prepare for a giant garage sale. these past couple of mornings have been so nice, waking up and sitting next to her on the couch while i drink my coffee.

this morning we watched the martha stewart show and she did a whole segment on herbaceous peonies. surprise. who knew that my mom and i have the same favorite flower. adorable.

i mean, who wouldnt want to walk out into their backyard and see this

or eat breakfast with this on the kitchen table

or better yet, walk down the aisle carrying this

i really am such a sucker for fresh flowers. my, oh my.

on another note, choir tour was amazing. God never ceases to amaze me. he was so evident in the lives of the girls and those we came in contact with. he certainly taught me a lot about patience, leadership, and most of all love. i have every intention of blogging about one night in particular that blessed me. however, i have a busy twelve days ahead of me. i have so much to get done before i road trip up the california coast. ive been mia on here lately and now that its summer time [praise the lord] that means no homework, beautiful sunshine, and time to be a real blogger.

also...

im still loving my daily devotion book. im learning so much about god's grace, what it really is, how its evident in my life, and how to show it to others.

patience

2010-05-04T23:13:00.000-07:00

the quality of being patient, as the bearing of provocation, annoyance, misfortune, or pain, without complaint, loss of temper, irritation, or the like.

an ability or willingness to suppress restlessness or annoyance when confronted with delay

quiet, steady perseverance; even-tempered care; diligence:to work with patience.

patience is something i've been learning recently. im praying for patience almost constantly. ive heard it said before not to 'pray for patience' because God will teach it to you, and it wont be easy. let me tell you, its not, but it is quite humbling.

right now i am on a two week womens choir tour, which is the perfect place to learn a few lessons in patience. bring it on. its day three and already i feel tried and weary. im so glad that my God is faithful. that i can turn to his word and be encouraged. colossians 3:12 has been close to my heart this past school year and it is so prevalent when youre sleep deprived, hungry, and stuck on a bus with eighty girls. i can find rest in the promises in the word of God and the knowledge that his word never returns void. praise God for consistency somewhere amongst the craziness my life currently is.

music has always been such a huge part of my life. yet, these past couple days it has been so vital to my well being. whether im listening to brooke fraser on my ipod or worshiping with the girls in a concert, the lyrics somehow just minister to me tremendously more than usual. its as though everything im hearing or singing is from my own heart and experience, instead of just white noise to help me sleep on the bus or a performance for a audience of strangers.

i am so blessed to be a part of the trio that sings in the song your grace still amazes me. i have those words memorized like the back of my hand and the notes come out like my vocal cords have always sang them. but i've realized lately that even though i am performing, mostly im ministering, and not just to the audience, but to myself. singing those words is an act of worship, affirming one of the attributes of our God that makes me stand in amazement, his grace.

my faithful father, enduring friend, your tender mercy is like a river, with no end.

it overwhelms me, covers my sin, each time i come into your presence

i stand in wonder once again.

your grace still amazes me, your love, is still a mystery, each day, i fall on my knees

because your grace amazes me

oh patient savior, you make me whole, you are the author and the healer, of my soul

what can i give you, lord what can i say, i know there's no way to repay you

only to offer you my praise

your grace still amazes me, your love, is still a mystery, each day, i fall on my knees

because your grace amazes me

its deeper, its wider, its stronger, its higher, than anything my eyes can see

and im done.

2010-04-27T03:05:00.000-07:00

with my junior year of college. it is done. DONE. like done, done. couldnt be more done.

in the words of my dear friend aubrey, junior year and i ‘broke up’ and for good, none of that breaking up and getting back together stuff, so dumb. this is probably the second happiest breakup of my life.

well now i have to pack up an apartment that hasnt really ever felt like home, and clean up, a lot.

this month is going to be bananas. san diego this weekend then choir tour on sunday. ladies and gentlemen two weeks of bus rides, unflattering purple dresses, and way too many pictures. the up-side, home stays where we get to meet pretty cool people, worshiping with eighty other girls on a daily basis, and hanging out in san fran on my birthday, the twenty first one of my life. oh the happy coincidence. then ten days of craziness, more packing, seeing all of my friends and family one last time, and moving my life up to oregon for the rest of my summer.

i cannot wait. for: new people, new scenery, new opportunities, and change. im welcoming you with open arms. i will also welcome anyone who would like to come all the way to visit me up in bend, for the record.

“Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.” ephesians 3:20

things i desperately need to do:

update my ipod
watch episode IV-VI
write in my new journal
start my reading of pride and prejudice, for the 11th time
pierce my nose
go to the beach repeatedly in a desperate attempt to get my fill of southern california
one more angels game
disneyland, i would diee

lets talk about oregon

2010-03-06T22:07:00.000-08:00

i have, yet another, super cool story to share about how God absolutely rocks my world. and like always, its a bit lengthy, so grab your coffee and once again, get ready to rejoice with me.

let me preface by saying that i have a tendency in my tiny human brain to make what i think are these elaborate and brilliant plans. im sure God finds them very amusing and quite mediocre. anyway, here were my big plans for the summer before my senior year of college. an internship. i know, exciting, right? luckily, i participated in a corporate fast with my church for about three weeks this january. through this i sought direction and wisdom as to what i should 'do with my life'. during this time the Lord urged me to not discredit a calling to work in children's ministries. here is what i mean by 'calling'; i have served in children's ministries from the time i was no longer considered a child myself, which i think was about the age of 12. i lead my own pre-school class at the age of sixteen, and now even sometimes have the great privilege of running the entire children's service when our children's pastor is teaching in the main service or away. as a little girl if you asked me what i wanted to be when i grew up, i would have told you a penguin trainer and a children's pastor. im not sure how i planned one juggling those two jobs, but hey, a girl can dream. however this dream of mine was somewhat squashed by the public school system, urging me to choose a career path, and apparently being a childrens pastor wasn't a suitable one. i knew i was called to teach, whatever that meant, so here i am pursing credentials to teach in a special needs class. i know that i am where i'm supposed to be here at CBU, these past three years i have been so incredibly blessed, challenged and shaped into a woman of God, and i am so thankful for that. but still, don't push aside the calling to children's ministries, even though i had NO clue what that looked like in regards to my future i trusted that in due time, i would understand. so there i was, it was almost february, and it was about time to make an appointment with the internship specialist on campus (side note: she is probably the coolest internship specialist of 'em all)

i made my appointment, sat down in her office and explained that i wanted an internship, preferably something where i could work with children who have special needs. she explained that she didnt have any leads on something like that, but that we could search and find something that could work. just when i thought we were done she says something that catches me off guard 'i dont know why, but i feel like im supposed to share this opportunity with you' okay, why not. 'so before you came in i was on the phone with a gentleman from a church in oregon' HA, and this when my mind started shutting down. however, i dont think i could have been mentally prepared for the next thing she would say. 'he kept stressing that he wanted to find someone for children's ministry, and i told him i didnt have anyone interested in that at the moment, but that you were coming in an you were liberal studies' NOW, i know people often times use the expression, my heart skipped a beat but i assure you mine truly did. alright lord, im listening. well she explained that he would be on campus the following week, and she encouraged me to just pray about it and talk with him. well i prayed, and prayed, and prayed some more.

by the time it was the day for me to chat with him, i had such excitement about the idea of being able to work in children's ministry for an entire summer. i had somewhat decided in my mind that i would apply and the if they were willing to let me possibly come home early, if i got the RA position i applied for, that i was IN. well i met with Brandon, the gentleman in charge of the internship program at Antioch, and his joy was so contagious. His love for the Lord was so evident and encouraging as we talked. So as i answered the question 'what do you want to do with your life' he stops me and proceeds to say something along the lines of 'let me tell you why i know you need to come to oregon this summer' i am then told that last summer a girl with a heart for special needs children worked with them and began to work on a way to implement special needs accommodations within children's ministry. sweeet. well, for one reason or another she left mid program. and here i come with the same heart and a desire to hopefully finish this thing that has been started. this just sealed the deal for me. i had one question. 'would i be able to leave early if necessary' well i guess you could say i got the right answer. i got to fellowship with him and the other couple staff members who he brought along with him, who were all equally as witty and joyful. well, within the week i was applied an accepted into the program.

and since then i have found out even more exciting details. one of the other ministries i was interested in was social justice, which is what i have developed a heart for this year working with IJM. well i was actually blessed to share a brief conversation with the missions guy at Antioch. he informed me about this thing they are starting the month before I arrive called Mission Kids. which is basically this awesome blend of children's ministries and social justice, encouraging parents to become globally minded and in turn, teach their kids to do the same.

yet again just a beautiful example of how Gods intricate plan is absolutely perfect and way better than I could have even imagined for myself. from the get go this internship has just been a reminder that and of His perfect timing. i have already been so blessed by the favor that God has shown me in regards to this summer, whether it be my future host family (so excited), the fact that i can hold a part time job (praise the Lord), or the knowing that i get to have adventures and build relationship with 16 other interns who love the Lord. i know i've said it before but im so thankful that our God is personal, that His timing is intentional and His plans are so intricate and designed specially and purposefully.

when i take a step back from my life and look at all the incredibly amazing things God has brought me through and is allowing me to enter in to i cant help but feel so blessed. i am forever thankful for all he has done, all he is doing, and all he has yet to do.

'Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is NONE upon the earth that I desire beside THEE.'

-Psalm 73:25

also...

school has been crazy with midterms and getting ready to commence spring break, colorado here we come. however we did have a little thing called WOO WEEK. let me just give you an idea of how my roller disco night went.

hello march.

2010-03-03T23:34:00.000-08:00

you sorta snuck up on me.

however, i shall welcome you with open arms.

in march i am..

reading this.
going here for spring break. no big deal, its just a castle in colorado.
planning for IJM's big Spring '10 event. epic. stay tuned folks.
registering for my last fall semester as CBU. fingers crossed.
sellin some stuff on EBAY.
starting a new devotion with some lovelies from choir.
waking up early

and im sure im doing much more, that im somehow leaving out, but i figure i have an excuse, since it is 1:30 am. yikes!

also...

i'm lame and still need to blog about the lovely internship i have this summer. coming soon. promise, promise.

something a little different.

2010-02-26T09:25:00.000-08:00

this morning i was really challenged through my devotion. as i've been reading, yet again, though the psalms i've been desiring to dig deeper. my new obsession is attempting to look into the translation of words in their hebrew form.

today i was reading psalms 37, which in and of itself is incredibly uplifting. i have circumstances in my life currently where i feel God calling me to show love, and not just my forced, flawed, and fake human love. NOPE. the love of christ. holy moly, talk about a challenge. in prayer this morning i really felt convicted about this, then the song by our love came on shuffle.

Brothers, let us come together

Walking in the Spirit, there's much to be done...

We will come reaching, out from our comforts
And they will know us by our love...

Sisters, we were made for kindness
We can pierce the darkness as He shines through us...
We will come reaching, with a song of healing...
And they will know us by our love!

The time is now
Come Church arise...
Love with His hands
See with His eyes...
Bind it around you,
Let it never leave you,
And they will know us by our love...

Children, You are hope for justice,
Stand firm in the Truth now, set your hearts above
You will be reaching, long after we’re gone,
And they will know you by your love!

then this morning reading through psalms 37 was the final confirmation that i needed.

³ Trust in the LORD and do good;
dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.

⁴ Delight yourself in the LORD
and he will give you the desires of your heart.

⁵ Commit your way to the LORD;
trust in him and he will do this:

⁶ He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn,
the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.

⁷ Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him;
do not fret when men succeed in their ways,
when they carry out their wicked schemes.

⁸ Refrain from anger and turn from wrath;
do not fret—it leads only to evil.

im called to show love even to those who are doing "evil". [evil:from the hebrew רשע transliterated is rasha – meaning the guilty.] i shouldnt even allow myself to worry about the situation where it seems the 'wicked' are succeeding. all i can do is be still and trust that what the Lord promises is verses 6-8 will, in fact, be carried out. but here's the thing, not only should i be still, i cant just sit and wait for God to do his thing while i just sit back and relax. i must not only show HIS love but delight myself in doing so, and be patient. my goodness, i am so thankful that i serve a faithful God who's word will never never ever be returned void.

so here i go, on my quest of love. not the kind of love the world see's with flowers and chocolate and romantic notes and other mushy stuff, although, that would be nice. but the LOVE of God; patient, kind, self-less and gentle.

also... i get to spend time with this lovely lady and the rest of her wonderful family who over the past twenty years of my life has been so influential and become part of my family.

formspring.me

2010-02-25T13:29:00.001-08:00

well, i've done it. i think i may be crazy. we'll see. http://formspring.me/ohellodear

love actually.

2010-02-19T20:51:00.000-08:00

girls night, with two sarahs, romantic movies, and gluten free cupcakes. if i learned one thing from my grandma, its the utter bliss found in peanut butter chocolate frosting. oh boy, what nights like this do to me.

these are a few of my favorite things

picnics

going for walks

good morning texts

kisses on the cheek

surprises

phone calls

serenades

getting butterflies

notes

"love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith"

1 tim 1:5

well, im waiting.

ever so patiently.

Psalms 119:33-40

2010-02-18T10:04:00.000-08:00

Teach me, O LORD, to follow your decrees;

then I will keep them to the end.

Give me understanding, and I will keep your law

and obey it with all my heart.

Direct me in the path of your commands,

for there I find delight.

Turn my heart toward your statutes

and not toward selfish gain.

Turn my eyes away from worthless things;

preserve my life according to your word.

Fulfill your promise to your servant,

so that you may be feared.

Take away the disgrace I dread,

for your laws are good.

How I long for your precepts!

Preserve my life in your righteousness.

the past few mornings i have been reading in psalms, which always seem to encourage me. however, i have a new goal; tackle chapter 119, and all of its 176 verses. this is one of those chapters that repeats over and over how great God is and in addition, each new singer continuously cries out for wisdom, justice, and mercy. i long to make this my constant prayer. well chapter 119, lets get this show on the road.

also...

today ROCKED. no really, way to go thursday. i cant wait to see what the rest of this weekend has in store. thats right, ladies and gentlemen, i did in fact just refer to thursday as part of my weekend. thats how great it was.

&& i need need need to go here. like pronto.

my dearest tuesday

2010-02-16T21:12:00.000-08:00

you have been simply deeeelightful.

i'll be honest, i started off the day with frustrations that were carried over from the past week or so, and then this morning i had a unexpected, ugly, broken, little straw that just broke this poor little camel's back.

side note. sometimes i wish our society wasnt so into the whole 'instant gratification thing' you know, maybe if you didnt have the courage to say what was in a text in person instead, you shouldnt have said it at all. anyway, i digress.

i got to see em, the lovely pres to my vp this morning, which is always a spirit lifter. we successfully rolled 82 boxed lunches and water bottles all the way to the buses at the music building, in our sunday goin to meetin clothes and everything.

we had two high school concerts today, which are always a fun experience. while singing around the people at our second concert i noticed three girls snickering in the audience and then came the pointing, greeat. totally pointing at me, awkward. i hear the word 'pretty' then one girl shouts 'we think youre pretty' oh lordie. THEN after our song, one of the girls raises their hand and says to our director, 'those two girls sing really pretty' and then the pointing again, this time at me and the lovely jaquie, at least im not alone. ladies and gentlemen, hence the commencement of the jacquie and liz fan club.

and then began my evening with the lovely, the fantastic, the infamous, Miss Trout

boy did we share some adventures today

wearing shorts

lemonade and chips and salsa compliments of sarah

sharing my heart and screaming

-why wont they get out of my life!-

playing catch on the front lawn, with gloves and a REAL baseball

mini USP reunion kicking around a soccer ball

dinner in the caf caf

including another mini usp reunion

singing some oldies song over and over

making peanut butter popcorn

watching ten minutes of when harry met sally

then switching it to the sandlot

realizing i couldnt do my homework, darn

and

my present from sarah!!!!

a day of love, somewhat lacking thereof.

2010-02-14T22:32:00.000-08:00

okay, so dont mistake me for someone who is bitter about valentines day or cynical about love by any means. on the contrary, i LOVE love. love love love it. its great. however, how i could i pass up this gem of a title. i mean, my goodness, it rhymes.

today.

my mom insisted on purchasing me a book titled "101 Questions to Ask Before You Get Engaged". lovely little book, probably gonna come in handy someday, far off in my future. however i find it interesting, i feel like this is way my mothers way of saying, "Elizabeth, your taste in boys sucks". Lovely.

ecclesiastes 9:10 "Whatever your hands find to do, verily, do it with all your might."

so today has been such a lazy day. getting over this oh so inconvenient sickness has been so draining on my poor little body. i allowed myself to catch up on sleep this morning, had a lovely morning devotion and some quiet time. then i did something i am quite good at, if i do say so myself. i made a little list, a to do list of sorts. and accomplished exactly one third of it. thats pathetic.

this week im bringin my a-game.

my nails are painted a lovely shade of turquoise and im ready to pursue some excellence.

also...

my darling friend ashley is getting married

this is us. we're spectacular.

all of us girls went dress shopping with ash and her momma. successful indeed.

also, this is paige. love her. i do.

lightbulb moment.

2010-02-04T12:48:00.000-08:00

well, i've had one.

praise the lord.

relationship:an emotional or other connection between people

i've been seeking God and pursuing a new direction. when staying for so long in the same mediocre cycle its quite difficult to embrace a change, no matter how much you need it. my emotions have an awful reputaion for making themselves seem wise and most important, all the while my heart and head are trying so desperately to speak up, but cant seem to shout over those loud mouthed emotions. this is where prayer comes in, paired with that lovely thing called muscle memory. i knew that i needed a change so i turned to scripture, always, always a good idea.

"Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ" 2 Corinthians 10:5

i've been diligent in this quest that i set out on. and let me tell you, it is an incredible feeling to reach a place where you realize you are no longer praying and pushing for a break through. in prayer the other moring i realized that i had truly and honestly LET GO, i had my break through. and bonus, since i had reliquished complete control to Christ, he had filled the emptiness and mended the hurt, without me even realizing it was happening. hence my light bulb moment.

also...

im moving to oregon this summer. i have an internship. i promise i'll blog soon about how God one up'ed me yet agian.

oh oh oh,

cutest love stories

totally prash

gotta love february

oh my word.

2010-02-03T00:52:00.000-08:00

it has been far too long since i've ventured onto this little guy.

well hello blogging world, im back. yeeah.

it is far to late to actually post the thousands of thoughts floating around in my head, but if i didnt at least make an effort right now, at 12:54 am, i thought i might never ever.

so while i've taken a break from blogging myself i've kept up with these three lovely ladies on almost a daily basis.

darlings, meet

ashley ann [under the sycamore]

rachel [smile and wave]

meg [whatever]

love them.

i do.

also...

i WILL be on here for a real post tomorrow.

yes indeed.

not your typical friday night.

2009-12-11T21:35:00.000-08:00

i literally cannot remember the last time that i did absolutely nothing on a friday night. i've been so consumed with upcoming finals, projects, and a lovely little 8 page paper for a certain history class, that what was happening this friday night was the last thing on my mind. tonight ive sat in my bedroom by myself and i have had quite a lovely time, if i do say so myself. sometimes i forget how necessary it is for me to have a little alone time every once in a while. tonight ive been able to collect my thoughts and in a way, regroup. my mind had finally caught up to the place my heart has been trying to take me these past couple weeks. now that my heart and my head are on the same page i am ready to take on the last couple weeks of 2009.

ive even had a few unexpected surprises this evening

tonight i

-finished quite a bit of homework, can you say childrens theatre reading reviews, i can, but id rather not

-finally wrote out my finals schedule for next week, yikes

-nearly starved to death, but then after my only hope, also know as my mother, informed me she was just leaving a long day at work and was exhausted, for good reason, i made some toast, which id forgotten could be so tasty

-had three visitors at my bedroom window

the first i was somewhat convinced was the 'up burglar' right outside my window, goodness gracious aaron scott

the second and third were my parents!! surprising me with presents in the form of dinner, and treats from starbucks =]] seriously what parents take the time to do that, freaking great ones, to be more specific, mine.

-laughed at my dad when he managed to step in two fairly deep puddles, in his slippers mind you, on the short walk out to the car

-listened to the giggling and loud music from the lovely ladies at the bachelorette party in the apartment above mine, who later so generously presented me with a delightfully shaped gender specific cupcake. tasty.

-found an online luganda phrase book, my heart did a little dance. gotta keep all the things i learned this summer fresh, im convinced my minimal knowledge of the language of uganda will come in handy someday

-got accquainted with carrie underwood and justin bieber, thank you kayla

also...

someday in the future i'll be able to sing this song to my mom, and i love that.

mama's song

these are a few of my favorite things

2009-12-08T11:38:00.000-08:00

well for now at least

mars hill podacsts Luke's Gospel: Investigating the Man Who is God
ESV journaling bible (can you say christmas)
over the knee boots
textured tights
blazers
martha stewart living crafts and recipes
keeping up with ugandan news, thank you cnn

also...

i went to YULE

this is my prayer

2009-12-06T10:55:00.000-08:00

Galatians 6:9 So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.

what IS good exactly? all i know is that good is absolutely not; accidentally sleeping through my alarm, waiting until the last minute to do homework, letting myself become overwhelmed, and focusing my prayer time mainly on 'i need' rather than 'Lord, your will be done'. lately i have been tired. coming back from this amazing, refreshing, challenging, and encouraging trip to Seattle, (which i will blog about soon) and diving back into my life that unfortunately i couldn't just hit the pause button on while i was gone. my first semester of my junior year is over in two weeks, which means final and projects galore. christmas is coming, the decorations and cheery music in every store is a constant reminder. i am so thankful for the promises in the word of God.

Phillipians 4:13 "I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength."

how can i get tired of doing what is good, when i have strength in Christ. and on top of that i have the promise of a 'harvest of blessing'. shoot, that sounds pretty nice to me. all i have to do is continue in diligence and wait for 'just the right time' and honestly, i dont want anything but Gods perfect timing.

also...

sleepovers, hiking hollywood, christmas lights, trips to the mall, YULE, and some time to be quiet and wait on God. thank you weekend. it has been such a huge blessing.

today

2009-11-25T22:45:00.000-08:00

pikes place
fresh flowers and produce
doughnuts the size of my face
the very first starbucks
beechers
practically getting hired at the flying fish place =]
walking to pier 54
IVARS fish bar
sarah getting her finger bit by a ravenous mobster seagull
spilling vinegar and spicy sauce all over myself and becoming human fish 'n chips
antique shopping
finding the perfect vintage dress for yule, fits like a glove, pure magic
some crazy man screaming at lesley in the street
'all ways' crosswalks
egg nog lattes from uptown espresso
laughing with my teammates, but then sharing about what we've learned
an awesomely uplifting thanksgiving service at mars hill west seattle
the hotel spa

and all this on two and a half hours of sleep.

today has been splendid, cant wait to pour my heart out about everything ive learned so far.

also...

one word, incredible

and then i went to seattle.

2009-11-18T23:02:00.000-08:00

this is a long post, i know. but i am seriously over flowing with joy from the things God is doing in my life. so get yourself an eggnog latte, grab a blanket, get comfortable, and prepare to rejoice with me.

so, i've been bitten by the missions bug, or so it would seem. i spent a month in uganda this summer. and now being back at CBU one of our first chapel services was all about ISP/USP trips, which i have never participated in. this was my year, but when or where i did not know. i put USP as one of my choices on my application, got called in, had my meeting, and magically was on the team. YIPPEE. well, the next step was to raise two thousands bucks, no problem right. i mean who doesn't have friends and family who would love to support them. well, i do indeed, however, they all just showered me with love for my summer trip. i decided to step out in faith, if it was God's will for me to go, come time, i would be on that plane. four incredibly fun weekly team meetings later, it is finally time to pack, and tomorrow around 3pm i will be boarding a plane to seattle.

oh but there's so much more...

tuesday i received an email from my team leader stating that those of us who didnt have at least a thousand dollars wouldnt be able to board the plane two days later. we were all aware of the stipulation, however what we werent expecting was the next line, which mentioned only 2 out of 6 team members currently had the funds to go, me not being one of them. well shoot. boy did that put a damper in my day. coming up with a thousand dollars in a day and a half is no easy task when you have no job, a non existent savings account, and a lack of wealthy and eager family members. i was stuck, nowhere to go. there was nothing within my power to make things different. this was up to God. my prayer had remained the same since i submitted my application, "Lord, if it's your will for me to be on that plane, I know that by your miraculous provision, I will be on it" I am one who knows full well God's ability to provide financially, not only have i seen it in my family, but i personally, a twenty year old, have seen in my own life how God can provide. There was a song that kept looping through my head "He will make a way, when there seems to be no way. He works in ways we cannot see, He will make a way for me". My mom came to get dinner with me last night, we talked about the email and discussed how if God was shutting the door, that He would also give me peace about the situation. Well I waited for it, and prayed for it, but i did not have any peace about not being a part of this trip. At around 2pm today I met with my leader to break the news so to speak. I could do nothing else, so unless I got a check for a thousand dollars in the mail thursday morning, it looked like i would spending thanksgiving with my family. like a good leader he encouraged me to pray and 'do all i could'. i literally walked up to my apartment when i got the call from my leader urging me to come back to his office. i turned around and prayed as i walked, i had no idea what to expect, reprimanding perhaps? instead i find coffee, lots and lots of coffee. through the confusion i hear a command, "youre going to sell this" to which i reply, "okay, yes...what is it?"

well it just happens to be some fair trade coffee from rwanda, liz.

wait fair trade you ask, why yes, one of the concepts our IJM campus chapter is trying to raise awareness about on campus. and yes wednesdays are our meeting days, just perfect.

i have mentioned before how tremendously blessed i've been to be a part of IJM this semester. the people i have had the pleasure to work side by side with are simply incredible. i shared with them my opportunity to sell this coffee for fundraising. when i asked if maybe anyone would be interested in purchasing a pound, i watched the entire room of about twenty people nod their heads yes in response. i was floored, well not literally, i was sitting in a swivel chair, but i was speechless. 24 pounds of coffee later, i have enough funding to get me on that plane tomorrow at 12pm. im cutting it close, but i'll be there. all of us on the team have in some way worked out funds in order to go serve these next ten days.

how anyone can doubt God, is beyond my understanding. His timing is intentional and His ways are so intricate. He didnt just provide for me to be on the trip, He allowed me to exercise my trust in Him, something we've been working on. Not only did he MIRACULOUSLY provide, but He personalized the provision. God could have easily put it on someone's heart to write me a check for a large sum of money like i had prayed for, but He didnt. God one up-ed me, and im totally fine with that. this coffee just happened to have been very recently donated to ISP, and they just happened to let me sell it. it just happened to be coffee, something quite practical and most people would buy anyway. but not just that, it just happened to be fair trade, something i am passionate about and involved with, and it just so happened to be given to me on the day i had my IJM meeting.

i just so happen to serve a God who is my provider. He is faithful, unchanging, and capable of more than i can imagine.

please pray for my team and i these next ten days as we immerse ourself in the urban culture in seattle and work with mars hill church, building relationships throughout the community.

a letter to a lovely fall day

2009-11-12T22:22:00.000-08:00

dear thursday,

you have been full of lovely and wonderful things. your cool weather and gorgeous clouds set the mood for the much needed fall weather, it is november after all. and surprise number one of the day, a bit of rain. i was quite delighted to walk out of pick up stix, after a joyous dinner with my USP team, and stop for a moment to catch a few drops of rain. my lunch date with sam, while not a surprise, was equally as delicious. dont get me wrong, i meant that in regards to the company and absolutely not the caf food. my mid day choir rehearsal was rejuvenating as usual, allowing for a time of worship in the middle of a busy day. as i was about to say goodnight to you thursday, was when the most unexpected thing of all occurred, a knock at the door. with a note reading "liz, go to the clock tower". i ladies and gentlemen, am going to yule. thank you thursday for not being ordinary.

yours truly,

elizabeth anne hild

also...

i leave for cattle call tomorrow!

=]]

its late and of course, im being super productive.

2009-11-10T23:57:00.000-08:00

and by productive i mean having roommate time on the couch, singing along to annie and eating snowflake shaped ritz crackers with peanut butter for brookie and almond butter for me. this relaxing time tonight has been much needed, since i've been all systems GO since thursday. i need an extra day this week just to catch up on sleep, God, if youre reading this, id really appreciate it, just this once.

i found this ritz cracker that was baked sorta folded in half. it made my night, i had a photoshoot with the little guy.

also...

i really want to start doing some sort of consistent physical activity. whether it be running, some sort of ridiculous work-out video, or rollerblading. just something. i need to find me a physical activity accountability teammate of sorts, or p.a.a.t. paat. i need to find a paat.

justice seeker and romantic poet

2009-11-10T00:06:00.000-08:00

just two of my many recent attributes

being involved in IJM has proved to be such a blessing. i love being involved in this cause and also thrive on planning, preparing, organizing, decorating, etc. we had the privilege of hosting a quite successful event on campus this past sunday night, showing the newest film put out by IJM, At the End of Slavery. Then tonight, we had an event on campus called 'World of Hurt' where we set up a neat little booth, if i do say so myself. i am so incredibly blown away by the team we have, everyone has such a willingness to lend a hand where needed and we work together quite well. we were able to share with students information about IJM, but mores specifically we were asked to educate about local human trafficking. here are some of the points i shared with students tonight

Orange County is one of the top places human trafficking is found in the US
Human trafficking is legally defined as: anyone who is forced, frauded, or coerced into a situation (i.e. employment or giving services)
Human trafficking is most commonly found in

-Massage Parlors

-Fields (agricultural industry, farming, etc)

-Labor

-Homes (private servants)

please, i urge you to keep this in your prayers. become aware of your surrounding. choose to not be ignorant to the world around you, instead, educate yourself.

please pray.

as far as the 'romantic poety' goes, its just practice i suppose. for that lucky suitor in my future.

for the record, i didnt plan on rhyming goes and suppose. thats what you call natural talent

here is a little example

Elizabeth

youre lovely

and lovey

and love

you are love

10:39pm

Ruthie

i love that you just started your message with such proclamations of love

thanks dear

and i return said feelings

towards you

i mean from you

towards me

which in turn i turn back to you

...

10:39pm

Elizabeth

towards another, from each other

into one that cannot be

poetry

i adore thee

and also do i adorn thee

with my love

and tokens of such

that mean so much

10:41pm

Ruthie

of course

and a horse

i feel no remorse

so ill use the force

also...

i am currently obsessed with listening to mars hill podcasts

the end.

yes, ladies and gentlemen, this is what my college education requires of me.

2009-11-08T22:19:00.000-08:00

There’s a Monster in My Tummy!

(BOOM!) Ashley slammed the door and stormed into the kitchen. (THUD, THUD, THUD, THUD) (GRUMBLE, GRUMBLE, GRUMBLE) (AHHHHHHH) Ashley screamed, “Oh no, not yet!” she thought. (CLICK, CLICK, CLICK, CLICK) High heels quickly clicked down the hallway. She knew this sound all too well. Her mom slowly opened the door to the kitchen (CREEEEAAAAKKK) “What are you up to young lady?” asked mom. (GRUMBLE, GRUMBLE, GRUMBLE) “Just doin’ my homework Mom!” answered Ashley a little too quickly. “Mhmmm, sure, just remember, no chips before dinner!” (CLICK, CLICK, CLICK, CLICK). (WHEEEWWW) Finally, the coast was clear. She flung open the cupboard (SQUEAK) and grabbed a bag of chips, trying her best not to make too much noise. (CRUSCHK) Oh the lovely salty smell was almost too much to handle. Patience was key. She reached her hand in the bag, making sure to only touch that one chip. (GRUMBLE, GRUMBLE, GRUMBLE) “Hold your horses, im trying” she assured. She placed the chip on her tongue and (CRUNCH) slowly, carefully, as not to not make too much noise (CRUNCH). (MMMMMMM) “There, happy now?” Ashley asked, a bit impatiently. (GRUMBLE, GRUMBLE, GRUMBLE) “Oh no!” as she looked down at the already opened bag of chips, it was near impossible to stop it. Before she knew it she was shoveling chip after chip in to her mouth, (CRUNCH CRUNCH CRUNCH) (CREEEEEEAAAAAAKK) The door to the kitchen swung open “Ashley!!!!” screamed mom. (CRUNCH CRUNCH) “Sorry mom, the monster in my tummy was hungry” said Ashley timidly.

date night.

2009-11-07T21:11:00.000-08:00

what ashley and liz do on 'blogging date nights'

order kids meals or specifically 'callin' in kids meals'
find dates to yule. NOT.
watch worlds strictest parents
write stories about each other, complete with sound effects, thank you CBU education
search eric's apartment for change
walk to the doughnut shop with eric
get way more doughnuts than we paid for
get scared by the abandoned house
sing pokemon
hang out in an apartment with the door wide open
have CANDY WARS, and leave candy all over the floor to prove it
finally learn how to skateboard, PUMP IT, thank you ashley
record a song on ben's computer, 'ashley and liz are incredible musicians, live it, love ittt'
laugh way too much, like WAY too muchh
oh and most importantly, wait to blog until our date is over

this weekend has been great, like so great and fun and great.

also...

i just found out that next weekend i get to go to cattle call.

this is becoming a tradition!

so great right now.

2009-11-06T00:33:00.000-08:00

Before the throne of God above
I have a strong, a perfect plea:
A great High Priest, whose name is Love,
Who ever lives and pleads for me.

My name is graven on his hands,
My name is written on his heart;
I know that while in heaven he stands
No tongue can bid me thence depart
No tongue can bid me thence depart.

When Satan tempts me to despair,
And tells me of the guilt within,
Upward I look, and see him there
Who made an end of all my sin.

Because a sinless Savior died,
My sinful soul is counted free;
For God, the Just, is satisfied
To look on Him and pardon me
To look on Him and pardon me

Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Praise the One,
Risen Son of God!

Behold him there, the risen Lamb
My perfect, spotless righteousness,
The great unchangeable I am,
The King of glory and of grace!

One in himself, I cannot die
My soul is purchased by his blood
My life is hid with Christ on high,
With Christ, my Savior and my God
With Christ, my Savior and my God

man, oh man.

these words are so incredibly real to me at this very moment, and this has nothing to do with the face that im typing while partially asleep, a new talent i've acquired.

also...

a good friend of mine shared a little piece of wisdom with me today.

when God brings you through something momentous, you need to make an alter, as a constant reminder of what you have been through, what you no longer are, and the potential you have for new things in Christ.

and as a result, i currently have a piece of paper with the words 'and, one point liz.." tacked to the wall above my desk.

stand in awe of god.

2009-11-04T23:18:00.000-08:00

that is what the first half of ecclesiastes chapter 5 is titled in my bible. which, strangely enough happens to be a men's devotional bible. this title caught my eye this morning as i was thumbing through trying to get the scripture my devotion was based on, so i paused and read, and as i did i felt as though i had been smacked in the face.

no, but really.

you know how when people get into hysterics and they have to get smacked in the face to snap out of it and calm down. i feel that recently i have been allowing myself to remain in a state of some sort of silent, inward, hysterics. recently ive allowed myself to worry about the future and feel uneasy about all the changes going on around me. this far from gentle reminder was just what i needed.

verses 4&5 stuck out to me the most

⁴ When you make a promise to God, don’t delay in following through, for God takes no pleasure in fools. Keep all the promises you make to him. ⁵ It is better to say nothing than to make a promise and not keep it.

whether or not i consciously realized it, i have been 'delaying' in my follow-through. yikes.

when i tell God, 'i surrender my will' or 'my trust is in you' i am relinquishing my control in situations. my actions however have not been recently as consistent as they could be. well thats about to change, time to start being intentional.

⁷ Much dreaming and many words are meaningless. Therefore stand in awe of God.

also...

i want this bag, my roommate just got one, it is supporting an incredible cause that is quite near and dear to my heart.

http://www.invisiblechildren.com/mend/collection

well hello again

2009-11-03T23:34:00.000-08:00

its been quite some time now since i've ventured onto this little thing.

but i, elizabeth anne hild, vow to be a committed blogger. wheeewww.

since march quite a few things have changed, and changed again, so we'll skip that.

right now, on november 3rd 2009, i am a twenty year old, who has learned a lot more than most people my age, but still has quite a bit to learn. i find such beauty in the fact that we never stop learning, and growing, and changing, keeps life exciting. but there are a few things that will never change

1. jesus christ is my lord and savior.

2. i literally never stop singing, sometimes i just do it in my head

3. i laugh, probably more than most people i know

currently God is bringing me through a 'season of change' which, understandably, has such a negative connotation. while some things are difficult and some unexpected, all i can do is cling the things ive been promised.

recently, i have found such encouragement in galatians

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

Galatians 6:9

also...

right now my roomate's chinese music is playing louder than the tv show im watching, typical. she's adorable.

2009-03-04T22:28:00.000-08:00

hmm.

if only i had something substantial to write about in a new post.

BUT WAIT.

i totally do. i, ladies and gentlemen, am going to (drumroll please).....AFRICA

wow, didnt think those words would ever come out of my mouth, or fingers rather. but it is true, and let me tell you, i am filled to the brim with emotion each and every time i think about it. sometimes my feelings fluctuate, from the realization of it's severity or the even just the excitement of it all. but one thing remains prevalent, and that is my amazement at how God is proving Himself faithful, in every way.

lets start at the very beginning, ive heard thats a pretty good place to start.

on a sunday, sometime after worship, as i sat in a chair bolted to a concrete floor, i watched the faces of children, each evoking a different emotion. some children exuded joy, which amazed me, considering they were orphans, living in Uganda. something inside of me longed to share in their joy, for the understanding of being content in having so little, resting in things far more important than the convenience of starbucks, or my favorite philosophy face wash. in a way, i felt lacking. other faces were full of despair, a pure lack of hope. and at this my heart broke. i am so blessed, and the same love that i feel each and every day from my God, is the same love available to these children. why shouldnt i be the one to share it with them.

and that was it. God quickened in my heart a desire i never knew would exist so fervently, and with such urgency. i knew, i needed to be there. all i had to do was wait. eventually i made my interest in serving at welcome home known to my dear friends Jerry and Barbara Northcutt. they were the ones who traveled to Jinja and brought back the stories and pictures that triggered this entire thing. they so graciously contacted the operator, who's home is in orange county, and the next thing i knew, i had an opportunity to go with the Northcutts to talk about my potential trip to Uganda. let me just tell you i was blown away with how God was already making a way for the trip to be possible. i absolutely adored Luke and Mandy, the passionate Austrailian couple who operate the welcome home ministries in Jinja.

since that meeting in november, the ball has just been rolling. from what things look like at the moment, i will be traveling on the 6th of july and returning the 30th. all of the little details where God have shown Himself to be faithful, and my provider, have been overwhelmingly encouraging, and i somewhat selfishly hope and pray that they will continue, guiding me through this journey.

pslams 31:14-15 "But I am trusting you, O Lord, saying "You are my God!" My future is in your hands."

FOCUS

2008-10-07T11:42:00.000-07:00

hmm. nope. im pretty sure its impossible. i love paying money to sit in an uncomfortable swivel chair and get lost in my laptop.

false.

pure sarcasm. no matter how hard i try, my eyes cross and things get fuzzy. im pretty sure im allergic to geoscience. yeah, thats it. possibly also the scatterbrained new yorkers who attempt to enlighten the class.

i had really good chocolate cake though. it was quite satisfying i must say.

"im really impressed with how they use these puppies. im sure anyone could do it"

-professor p

quote of the day

"it was just last year. several months ago"

close second

one of those

2008-10-03T17:08:00.000-07:00

days.

ugh, just blah. it felt like everything around me was moving, yet somehow i was stationary. i wanted so badly to be annoyed and just sleep. so i did, for about 20 min, which seemed to suffice.

now the world has returned and i have somewhat regained consciousness. plans have formed

beach & such

cranium with my roomies

and catching up on the game

-one thing about me, i sometimes get frustrated when i want to give into feeling all sorry. i let my mind explore the possibility of a pity party. i try to tell myself how im just too busy and blahdy blahdy BLAH. but then i remember that everything im saying in void, because all things are counteracted by that one thing. HIM

"I am with you alwyas, even to the end of the age"

matthew 28:20

Here we are.

2008-10-01T18:57:00.000-07:00

Uhm, I hate this so far actually.

I think I'm gonna love it though.. I hope.

Oh! It's 6:57. I have to retire from this and watch the ANGELS GAME.

Kbye.