Just A Girl

Peace in a Whirlwind

2009-04-15T20:27:00.000-07:00

Right now I'm sitting on my sofa, watching tv with my feet up....with two adorable little kitties by my side!! No matter what comes up in my life, I know they will always love me. It's like God displaying His kindness in such small creatures... I love my kitty babies dearly! :)

Even though there's a lot of stuff going on right now in my life, it's really nice to just sit back and relax. And that's exactly what I'm doing...

I Whirlwind of Tears and Joy

2009-04-11T21:47:00.000-07:00

I am very joyful because I adopted two kittens this week who I love dearly. However, my heart is so heavy tonight as I've had to deal with pain, frustration, hatred, stress....Need I say more?

I have been so stressed out about work lately and actually had to take a personal day off today. I was given the joy of having kittens two nights ago and suddenly it feels like my joy has been snatched away due to recent events in my life.

I don't understand why some people are so selfish, so shallow minded, so thoughtless! Why do they think it's okay to trample all over me? Not only once...twice...three times... It has crushed my heart. It has hurt me so much. I hope that he knows that. If he hasn't already figured that out, he'll know soon enough. I will have nothing to do with him ever again.

And then to make matters even more crazy...I've been thinking a lot about my future, realizing the path I've been on with certain aspects of life aren't going to work anymore. I want them to work out very much so but I can't see past certain things that are standing in my way...

I love my kitties! DEARLY!

Pastor Robert's message tonight was excellent. I am hoping and praying that this salvation message will be heard in certain people's lives this weekend...How I desire to see hope and joy in my dear friends' life!!!

I need to try to rest now. I don't know if I'll be able to. Then again, I've cried so much I might pass out from sheer exhaustion....

I LOVE MY BEACH!

2009-03-19T09:34:00.001-07:00

So far...

2009-03-15T17:05:00.001-07:00

I love my brother!

Jen and Tyler....

Florida

2009-03-15T16:34:00.000-07:00

I flew back home on Thursday! Yesterday was Tyler and Jennifer's wedding day. It was a beautiful day and they were both so happy! I am so excited for them to finally be married...Ah! Looks like I'll have to post later...the shuttle is taking off! Be back soon...

It's Me!

2009-01-15T08:40:00.000-08:00

Hi!!! *WAVES*

So I realize I'm not at home that much, meaning I'm not on here! I need to start taking my camera with me places so you can at least see where I'm going, what I'm doing :)

Work is going really well! I love it! Everyone really loves me over there too, so I feel really confident about my position. Of course there's always going to be some challenging situations, but in all everything is nice.

I also met someone. Info on that soon to come...

....

2008-12-19T08:12:00.000-08:00

I just wanted everyone to know I'm alive still. I don't get to update on here as often as I would like because I'm pretty busy. But yes...I am certainly alive and well. Life is great right now. I have a great job, which I am enjoying quite a bit. I've made some friends along the way and am enjoying our times together quite thoroughly... And some of those friends need to get coffee with me! (you know who you are... ;) )

Anywho, time to go to work. I'm so glad I like my job! That's huge! :) I'll probably be working a rather long shift today....

Transitions...

2008-12-09T20:49:00.000-08:00

So life has been very interesting since I've moved out to Texas. I was looking for a job for a while and finally nearly 2 months after I arrived here I was hired at Sprint to be a Lead Retail Consultant. I've been in training for this position last week and every day so far this week. I've learned to appreciate my 10 minute commute to my store...since I have to drive an hour each way to training.

In the middle of beginning a job and getting back to regular life after my family left, I had to go and break my foot. I'm not sure exactly what's wrong with it yet, but I'm going to get it xrayed tomorrow or the next day. You would think that after a week it would be a lot better...well, the swelling and bruising and pain haven't really changed. You can pray I just tore ligaments or something! My fear is that I really did a good number on it and need to get my foot set. This would be horrible for me right now since I just started a job. I wouldn't be able to do my job if I needed to use crutches. Dad did order me a big time mega boot, the kind I would get at the doctor. It arrived today. I tried it on and my foot felt better in it. I don't understand how that happened, but it sure did!

I'm just over this whole foot thing. I know I did it a week ago tonight, but goodness gracious! It's very inconvenient and painful...

In other news.. One thing I have learned is Texas weather is ridiculous. You can never really go by the weather channel because it changes every day. For example...yesterday was gorgeous and in the 70s...This morning it was gorgeous, but in the 60s...Tonight it snowed and sleeted and it's currently below freezing. Tomorrow's high is supposedly 49 (I'll believe it when I see it). Crazy! I was happy tonight though...I was home alone and I got to light my very first fire in the fireplace. You see, living in Florida all my life...well, there's not much fireplace action. In fact, there isn't a fireplace at my parent's house. We never really had a need for one.

So it was a relaxing evening. I crocheted while watching tv while the fire was, well, on fire. I nice night indeed.

It's time for bed! I have to wake up early tomorrow to face the hour long commute. Oh, and by the way...Dallas traffic is ridiculous. I thought Orlando was bad. Ha! Orlando is nothing compared to traffic out here!

G'night! :)

Great

2008-12-06T20:47:00.000-08:00

So....
I thought I just broke my toe.
Sure enough I broke my foot as well.

.

2008-11-27T09:45:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hi

2008-11-23T21:12:00.001-08:00

I started my new job yesterday. I'm really going to like it because it's very similar to what I was doing back home, only I have a title now and the pay. Just like in any job, I'm sure I'll have issues and have to deal with other people's issues, but in the end it pays the bills and gives me a little extra. I really enjoy cell phone sales though, so it should be great!

I am encouraged. I'm not in the systems yet to activate any phones, but I've been able to shadow others and hear their sales pitches and such. I've been enjoying hearing how other people sell. I did hear a lot of stuff that could be better...a lot of missed opportunities. I'm going to give some advice to some of the sales people there to try and help them out.

Yes. I really will like this job. This is just up my alley.... :)

In other news......................................
DRUMROLL.....
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My family will be here tomorrow!!!!! HURRAY!!!!! My family and Stephanie will be flying into DFW around 2pm. How crazy is it that I actually got the day off? I didn't even ask for it.... So happy! Not only that, I'll get a lot of time with my family even though I'll be working. The schedule just happened to work itself out that way...
God is good! :)

God is Good!

2008-11-16T11:31:00.000-08:00

So today is a big day for me and I just thought I would share it with you!
I received a phone call from Sprint today and my starting date is officially November 22. Not only am I starting work this week, I'll be getting paid a lot more than I've ever been paid in any position I've held. I'll be a Lead Consultant, which is a management position who basically runs the store and reports to the store manager. I have been blessed tremendously by this position.

Also, I was looking for an apartment to rent and I found out that I can actually purchase a house at a cheaper price and own it in the end. So while I'm living with my cousin Kelly and her husband Kyle, I'm going to save as much as I can for a downpayment to purchase my own home!

Today is also a big day for me because on November 16, 2007 I rededicated my life to Christ, after having to go through a difficult season. I have definitely come to realize within this past year that following Christ is wonderful, there's a ton of adventures, it's a never ending journey, and God is good! I have held onto Romans 8:28 "For we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose," and Psalm 37:4 "Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart."

You know what? I'm really grateful I took that scary leap of faith to move out to Texas. Yes, it was a huge, HUGE deal for me and still is, but I believe (because God confirmed it over and over and over again in different messages and people talking with me before I moved) that if I hadn't taken that leap of faith, God wouldn't have been able to bless me like this.
So yes, it remains...God is Good!!!

I Got It!

2008-11-14T13:21:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited! I for sure got the management position at Sprint! I'll be starting on November 22. I can't believe I'm actually getting a position that starts me in management. I don't think I could ever get that in Florida! I surely wouldn't get anywhere near what I'm making now back in Florida. I can't even believe how good God is to kindly give me this job with such an amazing pay.

God is good!

..

2008-11-13T16:07:00.001-08:00

I'm making a scrumptious dinner. I wish I could share it with someone.

Update!

2008-11-12T18:01:00.000-08:00

I was in Florida this past weekend for Mike and Kayla's wedding. It was so nice. I'm so happy for them to finally be married. They were engaged for almost a year! It was nice to be back in my hometown for a little bit. It was kind of weird though. It was almost like being in Texas was a dream, but then again, I knew it was real.

I enjoyed being home, but I'm also glad to be back. The flight home was interesting. Instead of arriving at 7:45pm, I didn't get to DFW until 11:45pm due to bad weather and having them close down DFW. So we got to stop in San Antonio for about an hour or so... I was very blessed by getting to sit next to a christian named Kenny. We talked nearly the whole time, except for when sleep came upon us. It was nice to have such good company during that long (7 hour long!!!!!) flight. He's in Dallas this week for a conference about missions trips.

Oh! I finally heard from Sprint today! I got the job! I'm so excited. I've been praying I would get the position and sure enough, I got to do my drug test today. They're hoping that my background/drug test comes through soon, but they're not sure since it's from Florida. Basically, I'll be starting work as soon as the test results come back. I'll be a Lead Consultant, which is a management position. The job pretty much sounds like what I was doing at Maycom but without the title. I can't wait to start work! It's been nice to be off for so long, but I'm starting to go stir crazy! HaHaHa

Ok it's time to go. Double stuffed Oreo's are waiting for me!!! :)

....

2008-10-31T14:37:00.001-07:00

I had my interview today.
This could be a good thing.
Very good.

Sprint

2008-10-30T15:35:00.000-07:00

I have an interview tomorrow at Sprint.
I really hope it works out!
That would be OOOOO-mazing!!!!!!!
:) :) :)

I Don't Understand

2008-10-29T09:44:00.001-07:00

I just don't understand. The only thing I can think of is I'm physically exhausting myself somehow. Twice now I've waken up around 10:30 or so. 10:30!!!! I couldn't even do that at home! I don't know...maybe it's just emotions or I'm just mentally tired from research and filling out applications online. Who knows!

In other news I'm doing well. I'm ready to have a job though. It's been great to get all settled in at Kelly's house, but I really am ready for work and for paychecks. I have an interview lined up for next Tuesday at a bank, so I'm pretty excited about that. I'm hoping I get the job or else I can get a job with Sprint or something.

One thing that's new and I'm excited about...I'm going to join a singles Bible study on Monday nights. So my schedule is as follows: Monday Bible study, Tuesday college meeting - Seven, Saturday or Sunday church. And everything inbetween...you never know what's going to happen! I'm excited! I'm excited about getting involved. I've always wanted to be seriously involved in a church. I'm going to see what I need to do to get involved with the worship team and watching kids on the weekends for church.

Anywho...I'm going to grab a bite to eat. Hope you're finding yourself well today, whoever is reading this :)

I'm Going Home!!

2008-10-24T09:56:00.000-07:00

We found an airline ticket yesterday for Kayla's wedding. I'm so happy! I'll be home Thursday, November 6 - Monday, November 10. I get to see my family and puppies!!! YAY!!! :)

My Scarf!

2008-10-23T15:22:00.000-07:00

I have been having requests to post pictures of the scarf I made! So here you go! I'm not sure how well you can see the stitching, but hopefully you get the idea. I used a 9.0 needle and stitched a chain of 200. To give you an idea, this scarf is longer than my bed. HaHaHa The picture of me wearing it is doubled up. Enjoy!

.....

2008-10-20T12:43:00.001-07:00

Today I walked the dogs. I decided I would like to train them how to walk on a leash. I could only take one at a time because they're big dogs. I loved it! Not only did I feel accomplished about the dogs and teaching them how to act like I'm in charge, not them, I also feel good because I got to walk around the neighborhood twice! I might go out again tonight if it's nice out...Here are some pictures I took when I was in my room......

What Do I Put Here?

2008-10-19T21:23:00.000-07:00

Well, I've found myself exploring quite often. I've found two malls, both church campuses, my aunt's house, a place with good gas prices (today it was $2.61 per gallon), Wal-Mart, Target, Starbucks (like at every corner...thank you God!). Oh and the other day Poppy and I went exploring. We didn't mean to, but the navigator lady in his car took him on all these side roads. That was amazing though! We found beautiful land with farms, horses, cows, fields and fields of beauty! I imagined what it would be like if I were to live out there one day....I'm sure it would be a lot of work if I had horses, but you know what...I would love to try it out one day!

A normal day for me so far is as follows: wake up (always a good start I think), eat breakfast, make coffee, have a quiet time with the Lord. Clean the kitchen, my room, and the living room...And sweep all the floors! After that is like a mystery! A few days I went running around the neighborhood, one day I attempted Kelly's DVD "Get Fit While Dancing" only to find that I'm extremely uncordinated. I've gone exploring, took Grammy shopping, visited with Grammy and Poppy, called my family. Tomorrow I think I'll walk the dogs. I'll go to Grammy and Poppy's at some point because I need to print some things for my interview on Tuesday.

I have an interview with Wells Fargo on Tuesday at 9am, which is 10am Florida time. I've been praying that I'll get the job and find out shortly after the interview. I am in faith that God will provide a good job for me. I'm hoping this works out for a number of reasons. If you could pray for me, I would really appreciate it!

What else is new.....Oh! Last night was fun :) I went to Pete's Duelling Piano Bar in downtown Dallas. There was a group of about 10 people, including Kyle, Kelly, and myself. It was a lot of fun! However, it was so loud at points...my ears are still ringing and that was over 24 hours ago.

I went to church today. I thought it was funny because I went all by myself. Everyone else decided to watch church on the internet or they went on Saturday. I really wanted to go, to be able to worship in real life (as opposed to in front of a computer screen..somehow it's just not the same...hmmm...I wonder why?...). I loved it! Fortunately, the time I went Pastor Robert was actually preaching live, so we didn't have to watch him on the screen. They're in the process of raising money to build a mega campus, so I'm finding it very interesting to see how everything is being handled. It's great though. I'm very encouraged. And today's message was about being a good steward, not only here on earth, but in Heaven. You should definitely listen to the message at www.gatewaypeople.com. I know everyone will be effected by it!

Well, I should start heading to bed. I'm not really tired, but I still have to be responsible :)

Texas

2008-10-14T14:11:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone!
I'm sure you're probably wondering how things are going out here in Fort Worth. And no, I haven't fallen off the planet - yet. I'm having a wonderful time out here. Mind you, I've only met a handful of people and probably won't remember 99% of their names, but that's okay.

I went with Grammy and Poppy to bring Mom to the airport today. That was pretty sad. It was then when I realized that this is it. It's time to grow up. I'm excited about this. I'm a little bit nervous because there's uncertainties, but I am in faith that the Lord is leading me to where He wants me to be and will teach me a lot more here than where I was back at home. Why? I have no idea. But I do know that when doors open and God is leading us through them, it's best to follow Him :)

Tonight is Seven, their college ministry weekly meeting. I'm very excited to go! I was so blessed last week, so I anticipate tonight will be amazing as well. Hey, wherever God is - is amazing! HaHa

Well, I'm going to google some things now. I'll write later on.

I Love My Mom!

2008-10-13T20:43:00.001-07:00

The Creation of a Blanket

2008-10-10T18:36:00.000-07:00

I've been working on a blanket! I'm quite excited about it, since I've never been too successful with any kind of craft. I've always given up. But now I'm determined to finish my project and so far I'm quite proud of myself! HaHa

Wells Fargo

2008-10-07T10:19:00.000-07:00

I went out this morning to look for a job. The first place I went to was Wells Fargo bank right up the road. I spoke with the manager and she was so excited to meet me. In fact, I made such a good impression, she said if she had an opening in her branch she would hire me on the spot. She gave me her information and I came home to fill out the application. She said she would email the "big people" to put my name on the top of the list.

SO! We'll see. Prayer would be appreciated. Prayer for God's will to be done, for me to get a job where He wants for me.

Thanks!

Life

2008-10-06T21:48:00.000-07:00

This morning during my quiet time I came across something that seemed to really impact me. I wanted to share it with you...

Taken from the book Whiter Than Snow by Paul David Tripp, pg 24

God has promised to sustain us by His grace. (God never and will never break His promises.
He promised us the sustaining grace of:

1. Forgiveness - So we can stand before Him unafraid
2. Enablement - Giving us the strength to do what He calls us to do
3. Protection - Delivering us from evil
4. Wisdom - Protecting us from our own foolishness
5. Perseverance - Keeping us until the final enemy has been defeated
6. Eternity - Giving us hope for the day when the struggle will be over.

It is a willing heart that causes us to seek the grace that has been promised.

...I was just so encouraged when I read this! I think that main part that really stood out to me was that God promises these things. God is not able to break a promise. He has promised He won't! I am reminded of Isaiah 55..."For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty,but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it."

I believe 100% that this could also apply to the promises God has made to His people. For this, I am forever grateful! Who am I that I should receive this? Simply a sinner in desperate need of forgiveness. Thanks be to God my debt has been paid and now I am promised wonderful things from a wonderful God!

I hope this encourages you tonight.

Hi!

2008-10-05T20:37:00.000-07:00

Today was a gorgeous day! The weather was phenomenal. It felt like middle 70s with a nice breeze. Perfect. Absolutely perfect.

I went to church this morning with my Mom, Grammy and Poppy, and my cousin Kelly. It was simply amazing. It's a huge church, but I really enjoyed it! I tried not to think that it's my church now. Pretty much I still feel like I'm in a dream...

Today I unpacked my stuff. It was really strange. I'm in a strange house but my stuff is here and my car is in the driveway. I guess this is what it's like to move, or take an extended vacation of sorts. I am completely uncomfortable, but completely happy to be here. I've come to realize I've been way too comfortable in my little bubble. What better way is there to get me out of that comfort bubble than to move me to a whole new world? God has an interesting sense of humor. That's all I'm saying!

But I'm excited. It's quite an adventure for sure! HaHa Tonight everyone came over to my cousin's house to hang out. I kid you not, I had to just sit back a few times and take it all in. I was reminded of the Portocollis family from My Big Fat Greek Wedding. This family is crazy. HaHaHa I love them so much! I now understand why my mom has her little moments sometimes. HaHa Good moments! Fun moments! :) Welcome to the nutty family!!! :)

Ok, it's late so I'm heading to bed. Goodnight world!

I'm Alive

2008-10-04T21:50:00.000-07:00

Mom and I made it to Texas! We drove here from Florida in my lovely Toyota Corolla. It was a fun drive...definitely created some lifetime memories! For example, singing Carole King songs really loud and hitting really bad notes during David Cook songs. Great times.

And now I'm here. It's so strange. It's all like one big dream. I wonder if I'll wake up tomorrow in my bedroom on Touro Drive...waking up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee and puppies kissing my face? I fear my waking up will be quite different tomorrow. I'm excited to go to church in the morning, but I'm definitely having some not-so-fun emotions mixed with excitement and anticipation.

I'm so blessed to be able to stay at my cousin's house. They've set up a nice room for me in the back of the house. I have my own bathroom and a walk in closet! I definitely feel welcomed here. It was great when we arrived at my grandparent's house. Poppy was in his garage doing something or another. He looked so happy to see us. And Grammy was too! She was cooking dinner, but managed to give Mom and I a big hug! I'm so happy to be close to them. Whether I'll be here for a couple of months, a year, or longer, I'm grateful for this opportunity.

I'm kind of at a loss right now. I don't quite know how I should be feeling. I guess everything is just so overwhelming. I'm so uncomfortable when it comes to new things like this. For example, I'm the type of person who likes to sit on my sofa every night perhaps with a cup of coffee, playing sudoku or crocheting. I've been very comfortable with my life. So this for me is a HUGE step. I actually have to grow up a bit now. Scary! Exciting!

I'm very grateful to know that no matter what, God is here. He has come before me and He will go behind me. His plan is perfect. And I'm trusting Him. That's about all there is to it. HaHa.

So....

2008-10-01T21:03:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is my last day in Florida for a while. It's a crazy feeling! It's almost not real. I think the only way I've been able to deal with it is by not thinking about it - the reality of moving. Tonight as I was at work, I kept thinking about how this is really real. Of course I started to freak out. I almost had a panic attack, but I didn't. It's just so overwhelming. Sometimes I wonder if I've made a big mistake? But I know doors have opened for me there, where doors have closed for me here. Will that last forever? I don't know. Perhaps I just need to get our of town for a little bit to learn some things. I don't know.

This I do know: That God is for me...Who can be against me? Or, what can be against me? Can a new situation, new circumstances, distance, uncertainties...If God is for me, what can be against me?

Some of my favorite scriptures are very helpful right now:
"You have kept count of my tossings; put my tears in your bottle. Are they not in your book?Then my enemies will turn back in the day when I call. This I know, that God is for me. In God, whose word I praise, in the LORD, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me?"
Psalm 56:8-11

"Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart."
Psalm 37:4

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."
Isaiah 55:8-9

"For you shall go out in joy and be led forth in peace..."
Isaiah 55:12

"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."
Romans 8:28

I would greatly appreciate your prayers as I'm going through this transition in my life. Thank you in advance! And I will do my best to keep this updated.

One Week...

2008-09-26T18:10:00.000-07:00

One week from right now I'll be in Jackson, MS visiting a close friend. This time next week, Mom and I will be exhausted from driving in the car all day. This time next week, Mom and I will finally be on our long awaited road trip. This time next week my life will be changing...

Unbelievable.

Celebrity Collage by MyHeritage

2008-09-13T16:18:00.001-07:00

MyHeritage: Celebrity Collage - Geneology - Family tree chart

News

2008-09-05T19:55:00.000-07:00

Life has taken an interesting turn...
Looks like I'll be moving to Texas after all. I need to talk with the HR Manager at work and see what can be done regarding a transfer. I'm freaked out. I'm excited. I'm scared. I'm excited!

I've never moved before. In fact, I've lived in this home all my life. It's going to be a huge difference to go to Texas after being in Florida since I was born. I may go and could hate it, or I could go and love it. Either way, I'm looking forward to an adventure!

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Crazy

2008-08-27T09:18:00.000-07:00

This has definitely been a crazy week. I've been having flashbacks to the accident along with some awful headaches. I was supposed to have a cop call me last night to follow up with everything, but I didn't hear from him. I keep thinking the guy somehow got complications and has taken a turn for the worse. What if he died? I won't be able to live with that. I hope and pray that he is indeed okay.

The cop I was speaking with the night of the accident said that the guy would be in a lot of pain and a lot of trouble the next day. In fact, he was probably going to be arrested, as well as his girlfriend for drunk driving (on bikes though..interesting).

It's definitely one of those stories you just don't know how to respond. You don't know if you should be sympathetic or laugh because I'm the one who hit the guy, I got nothing against me, he got hurt and is going to jail. Does it make any sense at all? HaHaHa

On another note...My back has been hurting since the accident. It's hurting right now actually. My emotions have been out of whack too. I still have a lot of stuff on my plate I'm trying to figure out and trust God for while seeking advice from others.

I have to get going...I hope you're doing well, whoever you are who's reading this =)

Wow

2008-08-25T18:30:00.001-07:00

So I had a normal day at work. Nothing too exciting....
I do have a story to tell...

On my way home, I was hungry and thinking about what I could make for dinner. I drove up to my neighborhood only to find a gray truck past the stop sign, looking like he was going to cross the street. There were no cars in the other lane, so I took it slow (make sure I didn't hit the truck or the curb). I took a slow left into my neighborhood and BAM!! What the!?!?!?!?!?! I saw white flying in the air to the right of me. I hit someone on their bike!!!!! They were riding so fast and had driven behind the gray truck. There was no way for me to see them. They didn't have any lights or anything. I hit someone. I don't know how far they flew, but thank God they flew into the grass and not under my tires.

I pulled over and immediately called 911, completely shaken up. Some people from who knows where started running over to him. I saw a crumpled body on the side of the road. I was so sick to my stomach that I had killed someone. The cops arrived first, rushing over to the limp body. Shortly after, the fire dept and paramedics arrived. I had called my mom right after I hung up with the dispatcher, so my whole family had arrived to the scene.

As I was talking to the cop, explaining that I didn't even see him, I kept looking over at the paramedics and the body (I didn't go near him at all)...I heard he fell onto his head and had a big gash over his eye... Fortunately, nothing happened that would be life threatening. The cops later informed me that he reeked of alcohol and the girl who was riding another bike (his girlfriend?) didn't even know her name or if he had been drinking.

I'm okay physically. Shaken up? Extremely! I wasn't charged with anything at all. All I got was some marks on my bumper from hitting the bike. I thank God that he'll be okay! Actually...come to think of it....my back is killing me....probably from nerves.

I wish I had a hot tub to soak in tonight....

Confusion

2008-08-22T09:05:00.001-07:00

I just don't know what to do. It seems like there's an obvious answer in front of me, but I don't want to look at the reality of that. However, you have to look at the reality if life and what's included. Maybe my problem is looking at reality too much and trying to figure out answers.

Everything inside of me wants to go to Texas, but then again I really don't want to leave my family. I don't want to leave my dogs. I don't want to leave my home. I don't want to leave my job that I just got. I want to go to Gateway Church, I want to get to know my family up there, I want to see Shaun, I want to get out and find out who I am. But it's so far away....

So what's here for me? Is it enough to cancel out all the rest? I'm in a dangerous place right now. I can't keep drifting. I need to make up my mind and go with it. It's that first step that is often the scariest. And I think my first step will in fact be a big one...A step of something totally different than anything I've ever done or ever will do.

I wish I could have it all figured out right now...And perhaps see into my future?

New

2008-08-19T09:35:00.000-07:00

Due to a series of unfortunate events, it may be looking like my life will be changing soon. Completely changing! I will keep you updated once I have some solid answers.....
Peace!

Greatness

2008-08-14T20:34:00.000-07:00

How deep the Father's love for us
How vast beyond all measure
That He should give His only Son
To make a wretch His treasure

How great the pain of searing loss
The Father turns His face away
As wounds which mar the Chosen One
Bring many sons to glory

Behold the man upon a cross
My sin upon His shoulders
Ashamed I hear my mocking voice
Call out among the scoffers

It was my sin taht held Him there
Until it was accomplished
His dying breath has brought me life
I know that it is finished

I will nost boast in anything
No gifts, no power, no wisdom
But I will boast in Jesus Christ
His death and resurrection

Why should I gain from His reward
I cannot give an answer
But this I know with all my heart
His wounds have paid my ransom

Hello

2008-08-05T20:42:00.000-07:00

I never know what I should put in the title...

I'm working at Lowes now as a cashier. I'm still waiting to hear about my financial aid to go to college, so I'm working part time right now. I'm really enjoying it so far and I'm hoping I might make some friends there.

Besides work, there really isn't a whole lot going on. I'm just taking one day at a time, hoping for the best =)

Kitchen

2008-07-19T16:49:00.000-07:00

So our kitchen has now been completely gutted, all the cabinets have been thrown away, the pantry left...There's now a new tile floor and wood planked ceiling, pretty, decorative lights, a new window and new paint. The plumbing has been moved all around too.

We have to put the cabinets in tonight, but the appliances are all hooked up! Mom, Dad and I have been working all day trying to finish the craziness. I am so tired, I don't even know how to explain it. When it's all put together, I'll post some pictures here! Until then...

Hope

2008-07-17T11:21:00.000-07:00

I received a Master Card yesterday from DBCC. I read all about it, and hopefully they'll put my grant money on it! I haven't been approved yet, but the lady I spoke with the other day said money is on it's way. I hope it's true!

I'm starting my new job at Lowe's on Monday. I'm excited to finally be able to make some money again. However, I'm totally not looking forward to learning yet another job. I wish I didn't have to work. If I could, I would love to just go to school full time with all my bills still being paid, or be married and be a stay at home mom. That's my ultimate goal! If I could do that right now, you'd better believe I'd take it in a heartbeat!

You know what.....I would really love to go on vacation. Not just a vacation....I want to go on either 1) A cruise at least a week long, or 2) Go to an exotic island and stay in a resort for at least a week. I love the water. I think I'm made for an island or something. HAHAHAHA

Hello World

2008-07-12T08:55:00.000-07:00

You know what I find interesting? I find it interesting and encouraging when you go to a weekly church meeting (in this case it was youth/singles night) and you leave feeling totally refreshed. It's not like I was doing poorly before I went, but when I left it was just like...WOW! God is so good!

Worship was great too. Yes, the musicians are talented, but when it comes to singing the word of God, the truth of His nature and just HOW GOOD He is...it's amazing! Who am I? Who am I to be able to call God my 1) Creator, and 2) My Savior? That in itself is a miracle. It shows the kindness of God to call me His child.

This morning in my quiet time, I was reading in Ephesians. There was a section of scripture that just hit me. I think I've just read past it before, not really meditating on it or inquiring to the Lord what it really meant. Let me share it with you:

Ephesians 1:7-10
"In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ 10as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth."

I often dwell upon the fact that I've been predestined and look back at what the Lord saved me from. However, today when I read "in all wisdom and insight," I thought back to before time. Before time God saw in His wisdom and insight, how I would sin against Him. He saw every single time I would sin, every single time I would be tempted to sin, every single time I would have a bad thought...But God saw me in His wisdom and insight...and granted me the forgiveness of my trespasses (sin), according to the riches of His grace, which He LAVISHED upon us...

What a kind, loving, great God!

It's been a while..

2008-05-27T17:19:00.000-07:00

So I realized that it's been a while since I posted.
So here I am!
Well, life is very interesting right now. I'm currently unemployeed and planning on moving soon! I'll be heading to Texas in June, in hopes that I'll stay for the summer. If things work out...Well, we'll figure it out then =) It's kind of scary, totally exciting, and I'm a little nervous. I've never lived anywhere besides my parent's house here in Daytona Beach. Not only am I moving to another place, I'm moving a handful of states away! Crazy girl.
I'll be moving in with my grandparents at first and hopefully moving to my cousin's at some point. I'm excited because my main reason for leaving is the amazing church they have out there. It has 10,000+ members and a huge college/career group. At my church here, there is no group. I'm IT. There's only like 3 others besides myself, so it'll be a big difference for me!
It's so exciting to see what God is doing. There are opened doors for me out there and closed ones here...I'm pretty much going in faith because I don't have a job yet.

Other than all that, nothing too exciting is going on. Actually, since I've been out of work for a while, I've been pretty stir crazy just sitting at home. It's nice and boring all at the same time. I'm grateful for this time with my family though.

Oh! Here's an interesting thing...
Yesterday as Mom and I were loading up my trunk with groceries, we realized my spare tire was missing out of my trunk. I know for a fact that I had one and I know for a fact that it was there before Mom and I flew up to Texas a couple of weeks ago. The only thing I can think happened was while we were gone, someone forgot to lock my car up (since they were borrowing it) and someone stole it. Why steal a small spare tire? I have no idea. But it's definitely gone.

Amazing Grace

2007-11-28T18:49:00.000-08:00

"Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)"

Amazing grace

How sweet the sound

That saved a wretch like me

I once was lost, but now I'm found

Was blind, but now I see

'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear

And grace my fears relieved

How precious did that grace appear

The hour I first believed

My chains are gone

I've been set free

My God, my Savior has ransomed me

And like a flood His mercy reigns

Unending love, Amazing grace

The Lord has promised good to me

His word my hope secures

He will my shield and portion be

As long as life endures

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow

The sun forbid to shineBut God,

Who called me here below

Will be forever mine

You are forever mine

2007-11-23T22:49:00.000-08:00

It's been a blessing to be able to come to Texas for a week. We were able to spend Thanksgiving Day with family we haven't seen in way too many years. This side of the family is pretty much crazy, which makes the whole experience so much fun.
I've had a handful of people ask me if I would ever move out here. You know, I couldn't give them an answer. Florida is my home now, but I don't know if it will always be. We'll see when Dad sells his book...if he makes a ton of money and my parents decide to move out here, I'll go with them. But that's not until the future, so I'll just wait on that. It's so different out here though. Everything is brown and every house/apartment looks exactly like the others. AND there's NO trees. Oh! And it snowed on Thanksgiving. I'm pretty much certain that I'll never get that in Florida...ever.
I miss everyone back at home. I'm not at a point of saying I wish I were home though. I don't know. I feel like everything in my life is totally different now because of what God's done in my heart. Like the friends I had...they're still friends, but it's different now. In a good way of course, but still different... Basically a lot is different.
Well, when you look at things that haven't changed like my family, my house, my car, my job, my daily routine, etc. you would think that I'm just a nut because I'm saying that all these things have changed...
But the reality is...The Lord has so transformed my heart that I see things in a totally new perspective now. I know one thing that's pretty much major....I've always listened to rap music , Soul, R&B, Rock, Pop...definitely not Christian. I would say the majority of my music choices would be the kind of music you hear in the club. Actually, they do play it at the club...that's where I found most of my music. But anyways... I don't want to be legalistic in any way, but I haven't listened to any of that stuff since last weekend. I just haven't cared for it. Instead, my heart and soul cries out for worship music! And that's exactly what I've been doing...and singing along of course ;-)
Now just so you know, I have a lot of things I need to fix from my past. Like my music for example. I have a lot of junk I need to sort through. There's other stuff too, but that seems like one of the biggest areas I think. Now if I hear secular music I'm not offended at it. I sing along with what I know. But I don't love it like I once did. And yes, I LOVED my music. Isaac would tell you! I would play my rap so loud in the car with the bass cranked up, windows down, big ol' crazy sunglasses...yeah. Fun times. But in light of eternity...not fun times. It's like "look at me everyone! I'm messed up and I like it!" HaHaHa Oh the heart of a sinner! Aren't we always seeking for others approval or to serve ourselves? But grace has set us free!
Ok, it's late. I'm heading to bed. Have a good night world.

PS Lord, please be with the ones I love tonight...and those who I have yet to meet.

A New Life

2007-11-18T14:46:00.000-08:00

The Lord has been very kind to me. This weekend is pretty much amazing.
Sin had grabbed my heart and controlled everything in me -- how I lived, how I thought, how I spoke, how I acted, etc. Especially within the last year! In my sinfulness, God has been faithful and merciful time and time again. I never thought of it as kindness, but rather that everything is a big joke. Also, that everyone I know has been brainwashed. Crazy, huh? That's what happens when sin has a hold of your heart.
I've done things that I truly regret. Not only in my own life, but now I know that I've HURT GOD. I've hurt a lot of people in the process... The sorrow in my heart for the things I've done is overwhelming, but the Lord has given me new eyes.
This past Friday night at church the Lord met me. He stole my heart. He broke me. I was humbled and He held me. I was truly forgiven. FORGIVEN. From ALL my sin. God in His kindness spoke to me, saying to leave the past behind me - this is a new day! He's placed my feet on a rock and is leading me in a way I've never been before.
The sorrow that I've had over my sin has now been replaced with JOY. Never in my life have I felt such a burden lifted off my shoulders. I've never really felt true JOY before! Since Friday night, I haven't stopped singing praise to the Lord! It's not an act, like I've been doing for so long. I now have TRUE JOY!!!!!!! Praise God!!!!!
I don't understand the Grace of God. But I do know that it's holding me up, guarding my heart and my mind. His Grace is what is getting me and will get me through this life...Until I am with Him face to face in Heaven.
I'm very excited to see what God has planned for my life. In anything and everything, I want His name to be honored and glorified because of WHO He is and WHAT He's done...For SAVING ME from my sin! For replacing my hunger for sin with worship songs to His name!
I'm in so much faith right now. Through kindness, God has spoken through certain individuals in prophetic gifts to me. Everything was so relevent so you KNOW it was God!
I'm praying that God will use me, use my past and God's forgiveness of my past (sin) as an example and encouragement to others. I'm looking forward to making new friends in the Lord. Also, I'm looking forward to getting plugged into a caregroup!
I'm so excited for what God's doing and will do in my life! I pray for everyone to not live in rebellion simply because they don't want to let go. For so long people told me my life would be totally different and I would have joy like never before...Well world, it's true! And trust me, I was the LAST person in the world to believe it... Please don't reject God and the things of God simply because you're "having fun". Eternity is in sight -- closer than we think. Where will we spend eternity?
Praise God for His MERCY!!!!

Grace

2007-11-05T14:47:00.000-08:00

So this is my first blog post. I don't quite know what to write...

My life is going very well right now. It's all by the GRACE of God though! Apart from Him, my life would be shreds...

A lot has happened in my life. There have been a lot of wonderful times, and there's also been a lot of heartache. Never in my life would I have ever guessed that certain things would have happened...and they have. Definitely the most trying times I'm pretty sure I'll ever go through. But then again, God seems to surprise us a lot, so who knows?! He might have some other "big" things for me to go through in order to learn from Him...

It seems like I'm learning something new every day. Yesterday was that God never changes. Today it was the crucial reality of the Cross and the need for the Cross. I'm looking forward to see what God has in store for me in the near future...

So there! As brief as it is, here's my very first blog! More to come soon...