Aloha Hoa Aloha

To The Interns

2012-02-14T23:38:00.000-08:00

As it is Valentines Day, I have been thinking of the word Love and what it actually means.

There is more love than just romantic love. Then how do we define "Love" (thinking past the romantic kind of love we think of during this holiday).

This thought process of mine is how I am able to think objectively rather than simply accepting cultural labels. I look at definitions, history, slang, and the bible's view of a concept or subject.

BUT the main point of what I came to write this post about is the love I hope to give in this season of my life. I hope that I am sharing love with the other four interns I am working with this semester. The kind of love that is patient. Kind. That doesn't envy. That doesn't boast or isn't proud. That is not self-seeking. That is not easily angered and keeps no record of wrongs. Always hopes and perseveres.

I read 1 Corinthians 13 today and verse 13 says that Faith Hope and Love are important, but the GREATEST of those is LOVE. Over Faith. Because my faith and belief is based on Love. I don't want to get caught up in my religion. The rules and laws. I don't want that to hinder from my ability to give off love. That is my hope and prayer.

To my fellow interns, I hope you can see through my words and actions how much I love you.

Rekindling My Music Passion

2012-02-14T00:23:00.004-08:00

I was listening to my old Lissie radio station in LastFM today, and this song came up and brought back so many memories. I am really into this type of music and love that I am hearing old songs that I have forgotten about! This made me so happy today because I have been limiting my music choice which isn't necessarily a good thing. This song reminded me of my favorite type of music and it brightened my mood.

They record some of their songs in their bathroom because of the vocal effects it has, so it is possible you will hear a toothbrush in this song :)

CocoRosie- Good Friday

Acts 1:8/ Got Any Advice?

2012-02-13T00:44:00.000-08:00

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.

Acts 1:8

Today, I spent the whole day with a girl that is acting as a 'mentor' during my time here on Hawaii. She is oh so wise and I am truly thankful to have someone like her to pour into me and give me advice when I need it, and when I don't even know I need it! I mentioned this all in a post a few days ago.

Today we went to church and ate at a buffet afterwards. SUCH good island food and a great view! Lunch was where we had a good 'quality time' talk.

View from the Lanai (porch) at Lunch

She brought up my dilemma about feeling like I have to be a part of either one group or the other; I am balancing between the intern group as well as the people I am meeting through these ministries. I know how much I grew from the experiences in Italy when I hung out with the other interns while fellowship with other Christians wasn't even an option. I was able to learn from others as well as shine my light around the dark places I went. But when I came back, I regained this bond with my Small Group christian community friends that was so healthy and which I missed so much! This leads me to why I am so conflicted.

Is this a time in my life where I will be showing God's light "to the ends of the earth" as it says Acts 1? Should I get myself involved in these activities knowing that I am strong enough to know what I should and shouldn't do? Or is it a temptation from satan to get into the wrong crowd?

I am praying a lot about it, and after this talk with Megan I feel that I should continue to be a part of these crowds in order to shine my light the brightest. One thing she mentioned in our talk of how she knows so many people in the ministry who just stay around people who are believers because it is safe. They know they will be understood. I don't want to stay safe. I want to be in situations where I can show love to others, God's accepting love.

If you are reading this and have any advice for this situation I am going through, I would definitely listed to it. Respond in the comment box or e-mail me at LLSnyder06@gmail.com.

I am desperately seeking what to do, what God is leading me to do, because I don't want to miss out on any opportunities He is putting in my way!

Theme Of This Semester Internship

2012-02-11T12:38:00.000-08:00

Shining Like Stars

2012-02-11T10:19:00.000-08:00

Philippians 2:14-15

Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure children of God without fault, in a crooked and deprived generation, in which you shine like the stars in the universe.

I needed to take this in after a long day of work and being surrounded by staff who hate their job and spend their time talking to other staff while ignoring the children, and complain about needing to find a different job. That attitude can rub off on me. Since their attitude affects me so much, my positive attitude can have an affect on them, and they will see something different about my outlook on life.

Today: Going From A Negative Attitude To A Positive

2012-02-07T00:26:00.001-08:00

The work day felt so long, because it was raining so the children couldn't go outside, because five people called in sick so we were short staffed, and because I am catching a really bad cold from being around all the kids.

I also had my lunch break early, so the end of the day was longer. I spent my lunch break reading my bible (specifically Ephesians 1) because I definitely needed to change my mindset about the day. I carry my bible everywhere with me but rarely get it out at work, but I hadn't gotten up early today to read it so I figured my lunch break would be a good time. After reading it, I was reminded of what life is all about; I decided to focus on encouraging the other teacher. A lot of my job as an intern has to do with my interaction with the other teacher, and I am still learning my role in the classroom. I should not let negative thoughts get into my head...it's all made up and bad! Prayer for that is appreciated.

The last child was picked up late, so work seemed to drag on. I told the girls I carpool with that I was so excited to get back and read my positive thoughts book because I definitely needed a mind change!

When I got back to my place I had planned on crashing on my bed and resting for the rest of the night. I knew I needed something to change in my life to get rid of this drab attitude! I was going to make a few phone calls to talk to family and friends in hopes that talking to them would bring me encouragement. I received a text from a girl I met a few weeks ago that said she would take on a role as an accountability partner for my time here after I had mentioned wanting accountability...so thoughtful. I had planned on staying in but chose to step out of my comfort of my quiet, peaceful room to meet for coffee with her; I had a feeling it would be a good thing. We went to Aiea city at a Starbucks and talked- it was so awesome to have a friend here. After our talk, I really felt like I had a mentor here in Hawaii- and that is something I have wanted! I am so used to offering mentorship to other people that it feels so refreshing to have a mentor in my own life! I am excited to see this friendship/mentorship grow!

I end this day on such a positive note, that the bad energy I had before at work doesn't even affect me now. That coffee talk was definitely a God thing- He knew I needed it, and He has a better plan for my life than I do. Instead of doing what I thought was the right thing (staying in and being lazy for the night), I trusted God and He provided for my needs!

The truth that God has a better plan for our day than we do really hit me today when I read this piece of fiction:

Just had to re-post and share this little story:

Me: God, can I ask You a question?

God: Sure

Me: Promise You won't get mad

God: I promise

Me: Why did You let so much stuff happen to me today?

God: What do u mean?

Me: Well, I woke up late

God: Yes

Me: My car took forever to start

God: Okay

Me: at lunch they made my sandwich wrong & I had to wait

God: Huummm

Me: On the way home, my phone went DEAD, just as I picked up a call

God: All right

Me: And to top it all off, when I got home ~I just want to soak my feet in my new foot massager & relax. BUT it wouldn't work!!! Nothing went right today! Why did You do that?

God: Let me see, the death angel was at your bed this morning & I had to send one of My Angels to battle him for your life. I let you sleep through that

Me (humbled): OH

GOD: I didn't let your car start because there was a drunk driver on your route that would have hit you if you were on the road.

Me: (ashamed)

God: The first person who made your sandwich today was sick & I didn't want you to catch what they have, I knew you couldn't afford to miss work.

Me (embarrassed):Okay

God: Your phone went dead bcuz the person that was calling was going to give false witness about what you said on that call, I didn't even let you talk to them so you would be covered.

Me (softly): I see God

God: Oh and that foot massager, it had a shortage that was going to throw out all of the power in your house tonight. I didn't think you wanted to be in the dark.

Me: I'm Sorry God

God: Don't be sorry, just learn to Trust Me.... in All things , the Good & the bad.

Me: I will trust You.

God: And don't doubt that My plan for your day is Always Better than your plan.

Me: I won't God. And let me just tell you God, Thank You for Everything today.

God: You're welcome child. It was just another day being your God and I Love looking after My Children...

Interns Weekend #3

2012-02-06T23:23:00.000-08:00

Paddle Boarding

I really want my dog Mar to come out to Hawaii for this:

Photo Update

2012-02-05T18:05:00.000-08:00

Hiking Diamond Head and Beach Day

Something I Remembered Today

2012-02-05T17:58:00.000-08:00

I am more than the choices that I've made,

I am more than the sum of my past mistakes,

I am more than the problems I create,

I've been remade!

The Concept Of An Hour

2012-02-05T12:35:00.000-08:00

Time goes by faster when you enjoy what you are doing.

I was getting ready to go out last night with the other four interns when I decided to paint my nails. I figured I still had 15 minutes until I had to meet them, so this would be plenty of time. By the time I had finished one hand, I had five minutes left to finish getting ready! Boy the time went by fast when I wasn't even paying attention.

I was running this morning and it hit me- I now allow myself AT LEAST an hour to run. A few years ago I would have only needed 15 minutes. As I gained a running partner, made it a routine to run four-five times a week, and gradually increased the amount of time I ran, the 15 minutes turned into 30 minutes turned into an hour, and I wouldn't even realize the time went by!

Same with my bible reading. Once I truly began to understand that the bible is a LOVE STORY to me, that I can have this PERSONAL relationship and listen/talk to Jesus who loves me, things changed. The boring time I had to make to allow the least time possible I could get away with to read a chapter made the time with God a chore. Honestly, I would not realize what I read because I daydreamed, but because I technically read it I was able to check it off my to do list. Now I need to allow myself AT LEAST an hour to talk with God and listen to Him as He speaks to me through his word.

It is so life changing when that epiphany occurs. No matter how many times you read your bible because you were forced to make time for it will make it more enjoyable until you realize God's Love- how much He LOVES you. It really is a life changer!

Change your thoughts and change your world.

Inspiring People: Nick Vujicic & Bethany Hamilton

2012-02-05T00:09:00.000-08:00

I have heard these two people speak and they are so encouraging and positive. I hope to have their attitudes and outlooks on life!

Your Peace Surpasses Understanding

2012-02-04T11:48:00.000-08:00

A great song to meditate on...Aaron Shust, My Hope Is In You

I meet with You and my soul sings out
As your word throws doubt far away
I sing to You and my heart cries
Holy!
Hallelujah
Father, You're near!

My hope is ,in You Lord
All the day long
I won't be shaken by drought or storm
A peace that passes understanding is my song
And I sing
My hope is in You, Lord

I wait for You and my soul finds rest
In my selfishness, You show me grace
I worship You and my heart cries Glory
Hallelujah
Father You're here!

My hope is in You, Lord
All the day long
I won't be shaken by drought or storm
A peace that passes understanding is my song
And I sing
My hope is in You, Lord

I will wait on You
You are my refuge
I will wait on You
You are my refuge

My hope is in You, Lord
All the day long
I won't be shaken by drought or storm
My hope is in You, Lord
All the day long
I won't be shaken by drought or storm
A peace that passes understanding is my song
And I sing
My hope is in You, Lord
My hope is in You, Lord
Yeah
My hope is in You, Lord

These Two Quotes Sum Up My Life & Work Ethic Right Now

2012-02-02T22:54:00.000-08:00

Update: Last Day of January

2012-01-31T22:19:00.001-08:00

Today I was able to go to The Gathering Place (a lounge/coffee shop in one of the dorms on base) and serve food to the fellow military community with the young adults ministry called the Navigators. The Navigators is the ministry I have been actively trying to become a part of, and I already feel welcome and have met quite a few new people. My family-friend is one of the main ministry leaders for the Navigators, so I am so glad that it has been easy so far to get involved and meet people. After a weekend with the other interns and being out on the town, I love the fellowship that comes from the people who choose to be a part of this organization.

The Interns

Work has been going so well...I feel the luckiest out of all of the interns, I might be a bit biased. I get to stay in one room and am treated as equals to the teachers, rather than getting moved around from room-to-room every hour. My co-teachers are so awesome, I could not have been paired up with any others better than them! We have very similar teaching styles and they do not gossip as much or complain like I see many other teachers do. It is long hours, but I really do enjoy what I am doing.

On Sunday, we were able to go to the Pro Bowl football game...for free! That was such a relief. We got there early to tailgate, honored our military men and women during half time, and got back around 7pm. After an exhausting weekend, we plan on keeping it relaxed this weekend by going to the beach and stand-up paddling, maybe hike Diamond Head. And I might be going to a bible study on Saturday! I am most excited about getting involved in those and meeting people/having good discussions! One of my favorite things in life is having a good deep discussion.

Fun time talking with these people!

Half Time- Honoring our military men and women

You Knitted Me Together In My Mother's Womb

2012-01-27T00:05:00.000-08:00

My job consists of keeping little children happy and safe.

I especially like that first one. Anyone can prevent a child from an accident, but it takes a deeper effort to create a happy environment through the sometimes chaotic environment of young children.

In my last post I wrote about how smiling is contagious, and I am doing it more often. I am around children for a longer part of the day rather than adults, and today I became aware of just how my smile can affect a child. One of the children woke up early from nap and was fidgeting on his mat. Instead of getting mad and and letting his distracting movements get to me, I gave him a smile. He then stayed still and gave a HUGE smile back. I noticed that as much as smiling affects adults, it increases the joy in a child as well. So many teachers get exhausted from disciplining and keeping up with the energy of children that they forget the joy that comes from a child. I am blessed to be paired with an older teacher that is patient, happy, and still sees the joy in children even when expressing how exhausting the job is. While many teachers take this career as just a job to pay the bills, rushing the children through the activities, there are still a few who have a passion for it. Who love doing it. Who get joy from lighting up the joy of children.

I don't want to lose that joy.

What I meditate on when I get frustrated and wonder why I even picked the Child Development major:

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.

(Psalm 139: 13-16)

Now they were bringing even infants to him that he might touch them. And when the disciples saw it, they rebuked them. But Jesus called them to him, saying, "Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it."

(Luke 18:15-17)

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.

(Proverbs 22:6)

I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."

(Mark 10:15)

Human Beings and Human Doings

2012-01-24T23:59:00.001-08:00

Today was our first work day in ratio at the child development center. I'm not going to say the day is perfect and wonderful all of the time; there are some times when I absolutely feel like I'm making a difference and other times when it is more challenging, especially with children or other staff. But I have a new attitude now in life, where I take one day at a time. Now I focus on who I am equally as much as what i do.

A new habit of mine is every morning I think of who I can encourage today, and at night I record it in my journal as accountability. Today there was a new teacher who came into my room to cover for the regular teacher. She barely acknowledged me, rushed the children through the activity, and had a completely different teaching style than myself. THIS was my opportunity to encourage someone today. So while we were eating lunch with the children, I smiled nicely at her and asked her some questions to start conversation, hopefully loosening the tension between us. She answered, and actually responded in a nice tone. I guess the act of a kind smile showed I was willing to be her friend, and it rubbed off and was contagious. It's the little things that I might just pass over that has really changed the way I use my days.

What I attempted today is what I hope to do each day: bring love to others inside and outside the classroom, and have it spread to and through others. And not just a forced love, but a sincere, humble, joyful, peaceful kind of love.

After work, I went to a bible study on base with a group called the Navigators. It felt so great to spend my time there, even after a 9 hour shift with children! That community was so great. One girl in the group, Danielle, started talking about how we should be able to be "broken" at church, because that is where accountability and so many other things important in our faith are able to happen. She shared this song that talks about how we shouldn't have to be around 'the church' with "masks" on.

The Interns

2012-01-23T15:14:00.001-08:00

At chapel on Sunday, the chaplin asked for things that anyone was thankful for that week or any prayer requests. Amanda stood up and said this, I couldn't have put it any better!:

"I am so thankful for being able to meet all of the other girls I am working with. They are all so sweet and we all have a passion for the same things. I am so thankful!"

Well said, Amanda.

From Left to Right: Amanda, Me, Alison, Nikki, Alyssa

Chapel

2012-01-22T22:02:00.000-08:00

I went for a run this morning around base and it was the perfect weather...breezy and not too sunny. I got ready for chapel and Amanda and I (one of the other interns) headed over...so glad the chapel is literally right behind where we are staying! We met the family-friends that live here and do outreach on base, and it was great to see them. The service was small, old-fashion style which was refreshing since I am used to the more contemporary service. The chaplin was very relatable and I really enjoyed listening to him. During the offering, a local lady performed a hula dance to one of Jeremy Camp's songs (<--- that was SO cool and a great/different way I had ever worshiped before). After the service, we headed over to one of the other rooms and participated in the "fellowship potluck" where we were able to chat with and meet some of the people who had connections with the base in some way. It was so great to spend a Sunday morning in that community, and I am excited to continue that while I am here.

Afterwards, all of us interns took an adventure to the beach.

Kaka' ako waterfront park:

Ala Moana Beach Park

Sunset at Ala Moana

I love these people

2012-01-22T21:56:00.000-08:00

An oldie from my "going away" lunch with some of my favorite people!

I miss you guys and am praying for all of you!

The Road Not Taken

2012-01-21T23:32:00.001-08:00

Robert Frost

Two roads diverged on a yellow wood,

And sorry I could not travel both

And be on traveler, long I stood

And looked down one as far as I could

To where it bent in the undergrowth;

Then took the other, as just as fair,

And having perhaps the better claim,

Because it was greasy and wanted wear;

Though as for that, the passing there

Had worn them really about the same,

And both that morning equally lay

In leaves no step had trodden black

Oh, I kept the first for another day!

Yet knowing how way leads to way,

I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh

Somewhere ages and ages hence:

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I--

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference.

Photo Update

2012-01-21T21:53:00.000-08:00

Postcard-worthy flower

A beach we stopped at today

Beach time with my thrift store hat! It came in handy

A local favorite

An islander must-try

A photo of me (I'm waiting for the one of all of the interns together, so you can meet them!)

Interns, Homelessness

2012-01-21T02:10:00.000-08:00

We (myself and the other four interns) were driving to Target after work when we got on the topic of homelessness. There is a homeless man that sleeps in front of the Child Development Center one of the girls is working at, and every morning when the first person to arrive honks their horn, he peacefully leaves. From that topic our words spurted out our passion to help those who are in difficult situations such as the homeless. It was so awesome to hear everyone's hearts pour out with such a kind desire that is something Jesus is so passionate about. They all shared stories of how they have helped a certain man or woman outside a grocery story, buying them a sandwich from inside, etc. It came so clearly to me that it is easier to do this with others to support, encourage, so that this desire becomes contagious.

This makes me excited to learn from these other girls and to live life together with them these next four months!

Quick Post

2012-01-19T23:51:00.000-08:00

I woke up and went for a run around Pearl Harbor:

Our lunch break at Hickam Harbor:

I could do this for a while!

Life is Short- my 17 hours of waiting in an airport

2012-01-19T23:18:00.000-08:00

We boarded our plane from San Fran to Honolulu, and after 45 minutes after take-off, the pilot shared that we had to turn around due to a failure of the window dashboard (something like that). We were in the airport for 17 hours with everyone else that was in the plane in the same situation.
The Hawaiian Air representatives told us there would be an update every half hour. Most people around me focused on how inconvenient the situation was, and complaints were made all around the room. Once that half hour came and there was no update, a man would yell, "HELLO?! You said there would be an update, now what's the deal?!" in a rude, angry voice. A few angry thoughts instantly ran through my mind because I just wanted to get to my destination!

Map of our travel

Sleeper Cell in Airport

I sat down then and got out my Power Thoughts book, since we had 17 hours of waiting. I looked back on the situation and realized that each of those half hours of their life are gone now. They were spent- complaining? Feeling angry? Upset?
Even if we are in a "bad" situation, we can refocus our minds to focus on the positives. For example: we made it back safe and they caught a problem before something happened in the air!

We always hear the term "life is short"-we can make the most of our days by changing our mentality!

How many of us take the time to actively incorporate practical ways to live that "life is short" mentality?
I know that is something I am still striving towards and learning every day!

Pre-Change Ramblings

2012-01-19T22:55:00.000-08:00

The day before I left for Hawaii, my friend Jon drove me to San Francisco and I stayed the night at my best friend Leana's house. After catching up with her and sharing a ton of laughs, I opened my journal to write knowing that when I woke up I would be going on a plane to a change of life. Here is what I wrote.

"I am scared about leaving. I think it is because I have learned what it really means to love and truly know how it feels to be loved. Learn to invest in Godly friendships- to see God grow me and provide for me in those ways. It's like this morning in church how Jonah knows that if he asks God, God will come through- and that kind of frustrates him. It scares him. And I guess it kind of scares me too. I asked God for Godly friendships- the right kind of community- and He has given me them. But now I don't want to leave those people I love! I know that since God came through for me on that, it is no different that He will work the next few months for the good. But it is hard to be uncomfortable. I know God works in the uncomfortable, he changes you in the uncomfortable. It is going to take a lot of trust and faith, just like it has in the past."

Leaving...Am I Prepared?

2012-01-13T16:50:00.000-08:00

I will be leaving for my next job in 4 days.

It has been a healthy ignorance, the fact that I haven't really thought about that. The internship. The future.

One thing that I have been blessed with since I came back from my last job was the time to sit, reflect, be still, and sort through all of my thoughts and changed experiences I came back with.

I feel a bit hesitant, really, telling people where I am going (Hawaii). Their reaction:

"That's so exciting!"

"You're so lucky!"

"What a great experience!"

Why does this make me a little uncomfortable? I should be excited. I should be lucky to be in the warm weather, palm trees, the beach. And getting PAID to be there!

The truth is, I haven't been thinking about that. The time I've been able to process everything about life, what I've learned from what I've been through: I would call it more at PEACE rather than oblivious to the changes occurring in my life. I have accepted the fact that God wants me to accept HIS peace. His love. I have felt that peace as I have been still in front of God, meditating on his presence in my life. His presence in the world. His presence in the people around me.

I now have this peace that wherever I am, God is with me and bring His peace, always, if I will accept it.

So yes, I trust that I am prepared to go and do wherever/whatever comes in my life, because I have a strong support that is following me through it all!

Unexpecteds

2012-01-12T15:57:00.000-08:00

I love the unexpected things that God brought today! First, Colten's mom called to change my work schedule from today to Saturday. I first cleaned my car....for the first time in about a year! Out with the old, in with the new! I was able to spend time with a friend, Leticia, at Starbucks today. Then Ralph came in, the local that usually is in Starbucks every morning with his two seeing-eye dogs. We all had a great chat and it was great to be able to say adios before I left for Hawaii.
After Leticia left, I started reading where I last left off in the book of Luke. I was so encouraged about prayer through this verse:

"I tell you, though he will not get up and give him the bread because he is his friend, yet because of the man's persistence he will get up and give him as much as he needs." Luke 11:8

This verse is in the middle of a parable where a man knocks at the door of his friend in the middle of the night asking for bread. Because of his persistence, he got the bread. It made me realize that God wants to provide for us, and will answer prayer if we are persistent, because of faith, in prayer. Such a lovely reassurance today!

Starbucks

I pray:

Thoughts About Thoughts, and Conversation.

2012-01-11T21:45:00.000-08:00

This is something I have been reminding myself while in conversation. The best conversations are with those that are passionate about an idea, rather than negative thoughts about another person. I have been focusing on the thoughts that go on in my mind each day. The book that I am currently reading has also caused me to focus on the mind: Power Thoughts by Joyce Meyer; changing our thoughts can lead to a life change! Our thoughts lead so much of our actions and effects our overall life mood!

Now when in conversation I will make an effort to change the subject if it is negative about a person, and share my IDEAS, LOVE and HOPE. I hope this eventually becomes second nature.

Jars of Clay "Shelter"

2012-01-11T18:33:00.000-08:00

I saw this on my friend's blog and listened to it. I have been listening to encouraging music lately (something like KLove's 30 day challenge, unintentionally). I instantly feel joyful and my stresses go away as I fill my mind and thoughts with hope and love. So I really want to share this with you and I hope it inspires you as much as it does me!

WINTER RETREAT

2012-01-10T14:33:00.000-08:00

I burned my omelet this morning.
Clue #1 that it was time to get my thoughts out of my head and written on paper. Although I have 10+ pages of journal-filled scribble, I have yet to organize them into one flowing entry that somewhat expresses the past few weeks.

The LIVING Room

Fusion’s Winter Retreat this weekend, 1/6-1/8, 2012:
Preparing: We had been talking about “preparing yourself before God,” I was definitely prepared. I had been in “retreat” mode ever since I came back from Italy, ready to relax my body from the hitting, spitting on, and yelling in my face that I endured from 4 year olds (Ok it wasn’t that bad, and it was all worth it- what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger!). I had two months to recover. So I returned to my parent’s retreat-like community and found a small nanny job to pay for gas and expenses while I was here. As a result: I had time to meditate and fill myself with peace and joy- and it worked! Meditating on things such as:
“God, what do you want me to do today?” *Luke 22:42:
“I am called to be different. I am going to live a radical life, not necessarily a fantastical life. It is usually the peacemakers and the merciful who are hurt the most. The culture is not always going to understand me. Rejoice in the persecution.” John 15:18-21**
Oh, how my view of my life has changed because my thoughts and meditations have changed! (I’m reading Power Thoughts by Joyce Meyer).
As I prepared myself, I was excited to get this extra boost of fellowship and spiritual instruction *** before leaving for my big trip the weekend after this Retreat.

The Retreat: The theme was Intentional: being intentional in prayer, worship, listening to God. Also, there was an overall decor theme of redneck, which was fun all in it’s own! There were country accents, flannel shirts, and camouflage. It was so much more than I had expected! Thanks to everyone who helped out with planning and executing the retreat: PC, Steve, Zac, the Leadership Team. Main points that stood out to me from the retreat are:

"Jesus doesn’t just love you, he likes you!” Sometimes we think Jesus HAS to love us, because He is Jesus, but have you ever thought that he generally likes you who you are, because you were designed especially to be you?
"Stop looking for God’s will for your life, and start looking for God!” When we are entangled with God, our “will” will just happen.
We are not promised tomorrow, so why stress about something that might not even be here? (also, Hebrews 3:13)****
A testimony is not just how you came to Christ, but when God has continually worked in your life. (also, Luke 9:5)*****
We live off of food: without it we will not be sustained and eventually die. We need to be “spiritually” sustained in the Word.

Happy Birthday Raleigh!

Ok, time to end this post. There’s just way too much good stuff God is doing and can do in our lives, if we just take the time to realize it!

*“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”
**18 “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. 19 If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. 20 Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’[a] If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. 21 They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the one who sent me.
***Interpretation of Christianese: Fellowship= Friendly association esp. with people who share one’s interest. A group of people meeting to pursue a shared interest or aim. Spiritual Instruction= Direction towards things that affect the human spirit or soul as opposed to material of physical things (Dictionary.com)
****But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.
*****If people do not welcome you, shake the dust off your feet when you leave their town, as a testimony against them."

This Holy Place- Sarah

2012-01-05T16:11:00.000-08:00

I've had the best time hanging out with my friend, Sarah, and i was so blessed to hear her song she wrote and created guitar chords to. Her song is called, "This Holy Place."

She says:

"This is told from the perspective of the prostitute who wept on Jesus’ feet and then dried his feet with her hair."*

When I heard some of the words, "I can’t stop staring at your eyes", it made me think, "how can we look into his eyes, when we can't see him?" I soon realized she was talking about the girl that was with Jesus back when he was on earth. I also read this verse today, Psalm 105:4:

"Look to the Lord and his strength;

seek his face always."

Other versions say "seek his presence". I am still learning how to best do that.

*Luke 7:37-38.

Faith Heals

2012-01-05T15:40:00.000-08:00

I believe we can learn valuable things in our lives from fictional novels and it spurs creativity in the mind. Anna Quindlen says in her book How Reading Changed My Life: "Reading for pleasure was replaced by reading for purpose: Whereas an executive might learn far more from Moby Dick or The Man in the Grey Flannel Suit, the book he was expected to have read might be The Seven Habits of Highly Successful People."

I am reading a book called The Book of Dahlia (a random check out from the library down my street). She is a 29 year old girl who lived a boring and dull life, where most days consisted of sitting on the couch watching TV, smoking a joint, and sleeping around (note: book not good for young children). It was a normal day of her sitting at the TV when she had a seizure, and her 'casually dating' friend was worried and found her in her apartment. At the hospital she is diagnosed with a brain tumor and is forced to re-evaluate her life.

In the book, the doctor says, "People who believe they will live longer and fight through it live longer than others."

I have heard that before, and I couldn't help but go back to a verse I had read earlier today about the girl who touched Jesus's cloak and was instantly healed. Jesus says, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace."*

Faith heals.

*Luke 8:48

NYR- Yoga

2012-01-05T15:14:00.000-08:00

There are so many health benefits to yoga, some including:

Helps lower and manage blood pressure
Elevates your mood.
May lower blood glucose (prevent diabetes)
Helps heal Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (leads to less pain in wrists)
Increases Strength and Flexibility
Reduces symptoms of asthma
Better quality of life*

My friend Val posted an announcement for Yoga National Championships, so I looked up some youtube videos about it. This gave me inspiration with my "do yoga after I run" resolution.

*Health Benefits taken from http://www.medicinenet.com/yoga/page5.htm

Risks of Yoga:

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Hebrews 3:13

2012-01-04T15:18:00.001-08:00

But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.

Hebrews 3:13

Sibling Love

Tina's Going Away/Fundraiser at Chevy's

"Where The Big Boys Eat"

AKA Becky & Lori?

@ Lumberjacks

A Fun Site.

2012-01-02T19:37:00.000-08:00

It's a petite Giraffe. The website has a live webcam so you can see what the giraffe is up to! I click on this site a few times a day because the giraffe is just so cute and it brightens my day! I want one.

A Few 'Resolutions'

2012-01-01T17:28:00.000-08:00

I am all for making improvements in my life in order that 'the rest of my life will be the best of my life' so I am always thinking of ways I can improve. Since it is a new year, I decided to list a few improvements I hope to see in my life this year that will eventually become part of my lifestyle:

1. Encourage More

Everybody has that friend that sends a text right when you need it. The person that you just want to be around because they are so positive. I hope to show that more to others- letting others know I am here for them, which may sometimes not be apparent because I internalize my emotions. We are desperate for community, for each other. I want my positive spirit to be positively contagious. I can do this by leaving encouraging notes for people more often.

2. Let Go

There are things in my life that I have been feeling convicted on, such as habits that need to be changed and relationships that need to be looked at. Some of these things only need to be changed while others I need to just let go. Sometimes the hardest things and the right things are the same. This is something that is such a challenge but something I need to do in order to thrive and be able to come to God with arms wide open. I will do this by getting rid of those unhealthy things in my life. God, give me strength!

3. "Follow Me"

Mark 1: 17-18 "Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men." At once they left their nets and followed him.

I want to discover all that it means to follow Jesus, to act like Him, to treat others like Him, everything. I will be expanding on this soon, for there is so much to cover here!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T16:19:00.000-08:00

My new year celebration was spent with two amazing friends who have amazing hearts, and a whole lot of dancing!

Community- Family

2011-12-30T12:14:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

From the Lee Family

(one of my best friends shared this with me, of her family, and I had to share it!)

My belief as of lately:

2011-12-29T22:29:00.000-08:00

Gen

2011-12-28T21:30:00.000-08:00

Tonight, my friend who has been MIA finally decided to show her face. We ate at the food court and sat down around the Christmas Tree in the center of Sunrise Mall. The last time we had an actual deep talk was in June, and since then we hadn't really hung out or talked since I was gone for different jobs.

It's amazing how much people change in only a few months. I always think of a child's development and how OBVIOUS their appearance and skills change so much in a few short weeks, but I am realizing that we change so much in over just a few months. Even if our lives seem stagnant at a certain time, everything around us affects our development. It is so important to reflect on our daily habits, how we use our time, and who/what we are around. Gen had changed since the last time I saw her, 6 months ago. She got a new job. Her social life was impacting her new decisions. She had matured.

Challenge: What are things in my life that I are affecting my growth in a negative way? How can I change that? What are the positive things in my life, and what are ways I can keep those in my life?

H&M

2011-12-27T20:07:00.000-08:00

The first thing that we do when my sister gets into town...go shopping (that is after, of course, catching up for a few hours). It was also the day before Christmas Eve.

My family drove up to the Roseville Galleria, which wasn't as crowded as I had expected. After trying on a few different outfits, my sister had found one she liked. We were standing in line and finally got up to the counter to the cashier. She looked around my age, and had crazy hair and an outfit on that Ms. Frizzle might wear. She greeted us with a "So how's the world of tall people doing today?" (my sister and I get a lot of looks when we're walking together, since we are both close to 6 feet tall). Talking just 5 minutes with this girl, I discovered her to be one of the coolest people I've ever met. As we were complaining about all the pants we find being too short, she replied with:"Dude, I think high-waters are awesome man." The rest of our conversation was filled with a calm vibe from her even with the stress of the holiday season lines and shoppers.

Something I realized looking back on the conversation was how much I judge a book by its cover. Yes it is important to be aware of how we come off to people, because we are so easy to judge. But ultimately confidence is based on your personality, happiness, joy, and love to others.

A real life situation where I was able to reflect on my unconscious thoughts to bring about change.

(Photo: Me, the Dad, the Sister)

Shhh...It's Silent

2011-12-27T14:58:00.001-08:00

Spending Quality Time With My Best Friend, Leana

Inspiration for New Years Resolutions

2011-12-25T20:53:00.001-08:00

Guest Blogged

2011-12-25T20:26:00.000-08:00

Check out my post on my sister's blog: From The Inside Out

2011-12-25T17:06:00.000-08:00

Work

2011-12-22T16:42:00.000-08:00

I have the best job I could ever imagine right now.
I was blessed to have connections from a friend to work for a family to watch their 2.5 year old son. His child like happiness and joy is so contagious, and every day of being around him leaves me with so much joy!

Praying at Starbucks

2011-12-21T23:38:00.000-08:00

Today I met Becky at Starbucks...we had originally planned on a different location , but found out it was "Drive-Through" only (who knew?!). This new location worked out for the better!

As the barista greeted us we asked how he was doing, and he replied, "You know, today is going to be a great day!"

As he was leaving, Becky (as an extrovert) wanted to talk to him more and soon we found ourselves in a 2 hour long conversation, joined by another young man who was a frequent customer. The barista told us about his life and how he was radically changed because of a near-death experience. He is now a student at Epic Bible College but was radically changed 8 years ago; he saw crazy hallucinations that he is convinced were demons. One thing he said that stuck out to me was that "those people(possible demons), they were telling me to do crazy things, but they were acting just like my friends. It'd be like us right here, you guys talking to me right now, this is how they were but they were telling me to do horrible things." It made me realize that when I think of demons and the devil, I think of these super scary creepy looking monsters. But really, evil can look, seem just like a friend. Crazy thought.
I won't go into all the details (as this isn't my story to tell), but hearing his raw story was a rare experience. Not just his story, but his love for God through his words was contagious. This guy got it. Before he left, all four of us, random strangers, shared prayer requests and prayed for each other.

It was such a great time of encouraging others in the faith. We aren't meant to live this alone. We also don't need to have a crazy story to make an impact on people- we all learned from each other because we were all different. After engaging in this conversation of four people opening up and being vulnerable with each other, I felt this is what Christianity is supposed to look like!

We all left with chills!

Thanksgiving Photo

2011-12-21T19:19:00.000-08:00

I have been so blessed by being around the amazing people in these past few weeks. Having these two months before my next internship, I've been able to connect with these girls in a deeper way, since I recognize how much I missed them, and will miss them!

Sunday Morning Thoughts

2011-12-18T17:23:00.000-08:00

Being outside reminds me that there is a world bigger than me. Bigger than the little world that I experience.

I chose to sit outside on my picnic table on the porch surrounded by trees outside me house. I hear an airplane going across the sky above me. Someone is in that airplane. Do they have a family? Did they have to skip out on Sunday family/friend events because they work on the weekend?

Sitting on my porch, I saw a lady running along the path with her two dogs. What's her story?

The leaves bustling in the wind. The smell of fresh rain on the tree leaves. I sip my cup of tea in my Reading Rainbow-type sweater*. Stillness.

Being outside and experiencing nature reminds me of our greater purpose here on earth, and brings me joy that God has so much of for us. And He's sharing that with me.

God, You're sharing that with me.

To be continued...

*warmest type of sweater to wear during the cold season.

Sweating Bullets, Pay It Forward.

2011-12-18T01:25:00.001-08:00

Community.

Fellowship.

That is what I experienced as Sarah Long and I shot our very first guns. Our friend Brian took us with a few other guys, and they were all so nice and let us use their bullets. Those things are really expensive! I am greatly appreciative of all of the car gas, time, and equipment that Brian gave up to help us out. I hope to pay it forward by sacrificing things that are precious to me, in order to help someone else out.

*Oh and if you're wondering, I was able to hit many of the targets. I was so excited after shooting my first round, and had the opportunity to shoot a rifle, a shotgun, and various hand guns.

Think about this: Re-examine your 'bucket list' (things you hope to do before you die) and do one of those things, today.

WHOA music video-bomb post

2011-12-17T23:58:00.000-08:00

This week as I've been driving to Starbucks and back from (mainly Fusion) events, this song has played on the radio more times than others.

Maybe I just notice it more because it causes an effect on me.

Either way, it made me really start craving the words from these songs that bring truth to life, events in our life that may seem difficult but encouragement that all of it is worth it.

"My whole world is caving in but I feel You now more than I did then..."

I love a friend who, when we're trying on dresses at Macy's, she's unconsciously humming these encouraging praise songs as well (Sarah King!) I was just reading her blog and she features a lot of songs that speak to her, one which is this:

Basically, the past few weeks I have been experiencing the love and true words these songs bring (my car station is set to 89.7FM). I feel these songs impact me at this stage of my life, where I am meditating on Christ and letting myself be filled with a spirit of joy, the joy and hope only He can give.

Think About This: What song would you choose to represent the stage of life you are in right now, and how has it changed over the years?

Becky: A New Life at Bodega Bay

2011-12-16T14:16:00.000-08:00

I am so blessed to have such an amazing friend who makes an impact on every person she comes in contact with, whether she realizes it or not! Just the way she lives her everyday life shows she is following whatever Christ wants with her life!

Becky has aways had a heart for missions and was disappointed when her plans didn't go through. After much prayer and a few months of working in Sacramento with a longing to travel, she put herself out there and found a job that amazingly is connected with a possibility to work overseas. Yesterday, we visited the camp she will be working at and we BOTH felt right at home (even though I just went along for the ride, but it was an amazing place!) We met the staff and I am so happy at how God is working through her as she trusts in Him! I am meeting so many people who have awesome stories of how God is working in their life. It is so great to see what happens when we let go of the stresses of our life, and let God be in control.

It was amazing how different our lives felt being only 2.5 hours away

from Sacramento. It was like a whole new different adventure. I am so happy Becky will be able to experience this (and that I will be able to visit!).

*Side note/Tangent: On the way back from the camp I saw a

shooting star! Driving at night with the bright moon in the sky and seeing a shooting star added a sense of awe to how amazing God is!

*Photo at top with Walter, the tallest redwood at the camp.

Love Languages

2011-12-16T13:39:00.000-08:00

After going to various game nights, spending time with people at coffee shops, and bugging various family members/friends to play the game "Skipbo*" with me, I came to a realization that I love spending time with people. Quality time is huge for me. That is what my love language is; the way I feel loved and appreciated is if someone is willing/desires to spend quality time with me.

If you aren't familiar with love languages, it is an idea based off of a counselor and author named Gary Chapman. After many years of counseling, Dr. Chapman noticed a pattern: everyone he had ever counseled had a “love language,” a primary way of expressing and interpreting love. Everyone has a love language, and we all identify primarily with one of the five love languages:

Words of Affirmation
Quality Time
Receiving Gifts
Acts of Service
Physical Touch.

You can read more about the book on the 5 Love Languages website.

It is helpful to know your friends, family's, and most importantly significant other's love language to understand what makes them feel appreciated.

*Skipbo is one of the most amazing games I have learned in the past 2 weeks. Best thing to do in your free time besides reading my blog.

Joy

2011-12-14T10:44:00.000-08:00

Henri Nouwen in "The Dance of Life" writes,

"...Somehow I have become accustomed to living with sadness, and so have lost the eyes to see the joy and the ears to hear the gladness that belongs to God and which is found in the hidden corners of the world.

I have a friend who is so deeply connected with God that he can see joy where I expect to see only sadness.* He travels much and meets countless people. When he returns home, I always expect him to tell me about the difficult economic situation of the countries he visited, about the great injustices he heard about, the pain he has sen. But even though he is very aware of the great upheaval if the world, he seldom speaks of it. When he shares his experiences, he tells about the hidden joys he has discovered. He tells about a man, a woman, or a child who brought him hope and peace. He tells about the small wonders of God. At times I realize that I am disappointed because I want to hear "newspaper news," exciting and exhilarating stories that can be talked about among friends. But he never responds to my need for sensationalism. He keeps saying: "I saw something very small and very beautiful, something that gave me much joy."

...I have to learn to "steal" all the joy there is to steal and lift it up for others to see. .... I don't have to wait until all is well, but I can celebrate every little hint of the Kingdom that is at hand.

This is real discipline. It requires choosing for the light even when there is much darkness to frighten me, choosing for life even when the forces of death are so visible, and choosing for the truth even when I am surrounded with lies. I am tempted to be so impressed by the obvious sadness of the human condition that I no longer claim the joy manifesting itself in many small but very real ways. The reward of choosing joy is joy itself. ...There is so much rejection, pain, and woundedness among us, but once you choose to claim the joy hidden in the midst of all suffering, life becomes celebration. Joy never denies the sadness, but transforms it to a fertile soil for more joy."

*I do believe the ability to see joy in the midst of troubles is totally from God. I am beginning to experience this and know it is because I am continually focusing everything around me on God.

This Is Me, Vulnerable

2011-12-11T15:07:00.001-08:00

Yesterday while manning the booth at a First Covenant Christmas event, as well as this morning watching the people greet each other as they walked into the building, I was reminded of the importance of people in our lives. That's what the church is, right. People coming together to live life together.

We all want a group of people we connect with; we were designed for that. The healthiest form of that connection is a group who desires to build each other up in the right ways. Ways based on love, acceptance, accountability, growth in Christ.

I first experienced this a few years ago when I was intentional on not just finding a church, but getting to know the people there. I joined a small group. As the shy person I was, this was a big step for me. I attended the young adult group regularly because I knew people there, rather than going when I could drag a friend along. This began the process of healing for me as well, I was able to heal from past hurts, pains, and begin the life that I was intended to live. Free of burdens because I was able to let go of them. This all happened because I found encouraging people to help me through it all.

Maybe this sounds familiar to you, my hope is that MY story will encourage someone in some way.

A Beautiful Interpretation of Something Worth Striving Towards

2011-12-10T20:51:00.000-08:00

What is childlike humility? It's not the lack of intelligence, but the lack of guile. The lack of an agenda. It's that precious, fleeting time before we have accumulated enough pride or position to care what other people might think. The same un-self-conscious honesty that enables a three-year old to splash joyfully in a rain puddle, or tumble laughing in the grass with a puppy, or point out loudly that you have a booger hanging out of your nose, is what is required to enter heaven. It is the opposite of ignorance- it is intellectual honesty: to be willing to accept reality and to call things what they are even when it is hard.

Heaven Is For Real by Todd Burpo, Pg 74-74

Experiencing God in Nature

2011-12-08T23:23:00.000-08:00

Traveling forces you to find the unique things in a new environment; I wanted to bring that practice back home with me. Where I am right now, in my hometown, I can go into nature with a heart for finding God through his creation. Surrounding myself with nature brings a peace into my life that I need more often.

These four photos are taken from a spot up in El Dorado Hills, a 30 minute drive from my place.

Scenery.

On the hike up to "the rock."

Rock stacking.

Amazing view.

These next photos are from a kayaking day on the most peaceful river I have ever experienced, at Cosumnes River.

Where it all started.

Time to take a feet photo!

Wow.

“Praise the Lord from the earth, you great sea creatures and all ocean depths, lightning and hail, snow and clouds, stormy winds that do his bidding, you mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars, wild animals and all cattle, small creatures and flying birds.” (Psalm 148:7-10)
“You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.” (Isaiah 55:12)

Favorite word

2011-12-07T11:00:00.000-08:00

Contagious: causing or likely to cause the same reaction or emotion

in several people; catching; infectious.

Have you ever had the thought: "My life is contagious"?

What a powerful word.

The other day, I was watching the movie, "Pay It Forward" (a great movie, I highly recommend it.) It is about a child who comes up with the idea of helping people, and then telling them to "pay it forward" (do the same thing) to three other people. Soon, the idea would spread and people will continually help each other out.

Your, my actions are contagious. That smile, that complement to your friend or enemy, I believe will be paid forward; it will spread.

I hope to remember to think about this as I go throughout my day.

Epiphany #2

2011-12-07T10:39:00.000-08:00

I'm going to "Piggy-back" off of this past blog post: http://lorileilani.blogspot.com/2011/08/epiphany.html

about how God is the same God, even when I'm in a different country.

Well, these past weeks I've also come to the realization that God is the same God, at any point in my life: when I feel so close to Him and He's answering my prayers, when I'm mad at Him for a tragedy in my life, when I 'take a break' from Him and do things my own way. Even through those times where I'm mad or angry at Him, His love for me never changes. The amount of love for me never changes. No human is capable of that type of sincere love.

Meyers Briggs

2011-12-07T10:18:00.000-08:00

What's your Meyers Briggs personality type?

Take the test, then look up your personality description in google.

Mine: INFP personality:

As an INFP, your primary mode of living is focused internally, where you deal with things according to how you feel about them, or how they fit into your personal value system. Your secondary mode is external, where you take things in primarily via your intuition.

INFPs, more than other iNtuitive Feeling types, are focused on making the world a better place for people. Their primary goal is to find out their meaning in life. What is their purpose? How can they best serve humanity in their lives? They are idealists and perfectionists, who drive themselves hard in their quest for achieving the goals they have identified for themselves

INFPs are highly intuitive about people. They rely heavily on their intuitions to guide them, and use their discoveries to constantly search for value in life. They are on a continuous mission to find the truth and meaning underlying things. Every encounter and every piece of knowledge gained gets sifted through the INFP's value system, and is evaluated to see if it has any potential to help the INFP define or refine their own path in life. The goal at the end of the path is always the same - the INFP is driven to help people and make the world a better place.

Generally thoughtful and considerate, INFPs are good listeners and put people at ease. Although they may be reserved in expressing emotion, they have a very deep well of caring and are genuinely interested in understanding people. This sincerity is sensed by others, making the INFP a valued friend and confidante. An INFP can be quite warm with people he or she knows well.

INFPs do not like conflict, and go to great lengths to avoid it. If they must face it, they will always approach it from the perspective of their feelings. In conflict situations, INFPs place little importance on who is right and who is wrong. They focus on the way that the conflict makes them feel, and indeed don't really care whether or not they're right. They don't want to feel badly. This trait sometimes makes them appear irrational and illogical in conflict situations. On the other hand, INFPs make very good mediators, and are typically good at solving other people's conflicts, because they intuitively understand people's perspectives and feelings, and genuinely want to help them.

INFPs are flexible and laid-back, until one of their values is violated. In the face of their value system being threatened, INFPs can become aggressive defenders, fighting passionately for their cause. When an INFP has adopted a project or job which they're interested in, it usually becomes a "cause" for them. Although they are not detail-oriented individuals, they will cover every possible detail with determination and vigor when working for their "cause".

When it comes to the mundane details of life maintenance, INFPs are typically completely unaware of such things. They might go for long periods without noticing a stain on the carpet, but carefully and meticulously brush a speck of dust off of their project booklet.

INFPs do not like to deal with hard facts and logic. Their focus on their feelings and the Human Condition makes it difficult for them to deal with impersonal judgment. They don't understand or believe in the validity of impersonal judgment, which makes them naturally rather ineffective at using it. Most INFPs will avoid impersonal analysis, although some have developed this ability and are able to be quite logical. Under stress, it's not uncommon for INFPs to mis-use hard logic in the heat of anger, throwing out fact after (often inaccurate) fact in an emotional outburst.

INFPs have very high standards and are perfectionists. Consequently, they are usually hard on themselves, and don't give themselves enough credit. INFPs may have problems working on a project in a group, because their standards are likely to be higher than other members' of the group. In group situations, they may have a "control" problem. The INFP needs to work on balancing their high ideals with the requirements of every day living. Without resolving this conflict, they will never be happy with themselves, and they may become confused and paralyzed about what to do with their lives.

INFPs are usually talented writers. They may be awkard and uncomfortable with expressing themselves verbally, but have a wonderful ability to define and express what they're feeling on paper. INFPs also appear frequently in social service professions, such as counselling or teaching. They are at their best in situations where they're working towards the public good, and in which they don't need to use hard logic.

INFPs who function in their well-developed sides can accomplish great and wonderful things, which they will rarely give themselves credit for. Some of the great, humanistic catalysts in the world have been INFPs.

Taken from: http://www.personalitypage.com/INFP.html

Run Run Run

2011-12-05T16:14:00.000-08:00

Starting up running again, with my dog Marley.

Colten

2011-12-02T19:37:00.000-08:00

Work today, he has a rocking horse, but instead of a horse it's a motorcycle!

The Help

2011-11-30T11:55:00.000-08:00

I saw this movie with Hannah Choi last night, I read the book last month and am so glad I finally saw the movie! I am happily surprised the movie plot was not far off from the book.

My favorite quote from the movie, towards the end:

"Love your enemy. The way to do that is to speak Truth."

Today

2011-11-28T17:25:00.001-08:00

Today I biked to Starbucks. The weather was nice. I walked in and greeted Ralph, surprised he was still there since it was 10:30am already. I sat down at the table and met another starbucks regular, Aaron. The three of us had a nice chat. One thing I regret is not asking about people's stories when I meet them. Like I said in my past post, "stories are what bring us together. To truly get to know someone, ask them their story." Next time, I hope to remember to do that!

Here's a story for ya

2011-11-27T19:07:00.000-08:00

Story is the language of the heart.
Stories nourish us.
If you want to get to know someone, you need to know their story.

Last week, I had planned to run with my running partner, Becky, and our friend Jonothan, at the bike trail by my old college. I drove up to the street to park and saw Becky talking to two people, one man on a bike and another lady. I walked up, getting into a conversation about God and thoughts on the matter. I was able to hear from them a little bit of their stories. Becky then asked if we could pray with them, so we all held hands and prayed.

On our run, Becky later told us how she was stretching and the guy on the bike asked her if she was Running To Feed The Hungry (a local run to raise money for feeding the poor) and she said, "Well yes, I am."

"I'm one of those hungry you will be feeding," he said.
He later went into a little about his past and struggles he has by being homeless. The other lady came by and joined in on the conversation. They were both homeless. "What do you put your hope in, then?" Becky asked.

"God. We have to. " they replied.
That is where I walked in and heard about their faith and trust that God is with them.

I only hope for more situations like these, situations where I can hear other people's stories, and have conversations that lead to hope. Because hope is what we all need. Knowing that we are all in this as a community, we all have our stories, and our life is meant to be an EPIC story, we can live life together.

All of us.

I am now saving up for my birthday Cruise with Rachel Breaux in June

2011-11-26T21:41:00.000-08:00

Tonight, I got to Skype with my really good friend, Rachel Breaux.

She is one of the most funniest, quirkiest, joyful, happiest, beautiful people in my life. She makes me laugh when I'm going through a tough time. We have known each other for a LONG time, going on 4 years! I am so thankful for friendships like these, the deep kind, that you can talk about ANYTHING with and don't have to be careful what you say. Because if you say something you shouldn't, that friend will let you know it! And that's a great thing.

It's crazy how much happens with a person's life, and God uses that person to shine onto others. To pour into my life. I am blessed to have a friend like Rachel. Her trust in God and following His guidance for her life is so apparent when I hear her stories. She went to college; then interned at a camp; photographed at another camp where she was surrounded by people who didn't exactly share her beliefs but who she accepted learned from; went to bible school in Spain. All of this while relying on finances from...nothing else really but God. And boy am I going through the similar situation with finances right now! I have learned to not worry, and keep my mind on other things besides money, because it can become an idol! If God has something planned for me, He can provide everything to make it happen, I just need to remember that. Rachel's life is a reminder.

People are so important in our lives. I need to keep in touch more often, not just when I have more free time than normal. I am so thankful for this Skype chat that reminded me of that!

Something's missing this year....

2011-11-25T14:55:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

I am thankful for the family that is here, including my brother, who flew from Oklahoma to spend time with us. Thanks, Bro!

Taking a stroll, on the job

2011-11-23T08:56:00.000-08:00

2.5 year olds, they mean business

Relationships, not just the dating kind

2011-11-22T22:07:00.000-08:00

I have never thought too much about how I act towards people.
Wait, that doesn't sound right.
I guess I have, just acted the way I do, try to be nice to people, etc. But this was one of those times where you can have read something over and over, but this time it actually means something. The times when God is 'speaking it to you'.
I'm reading the book Stop Dating The Church by Joshua Harris. (Page pictured on right). Am I really doing these things, actively, in my relationships with people?

Don't just take my words for it, read the book yourself; you'll definitely get something out of it!

SO good to be back!

2011-11-22T09:52:00.000-08:00

Fusion
10933 Progress Court
Rancho Cordova, California 95670

Ask me about it!

Hip Hip Hooray!

2011-11-21T22:15:00.000-08:00

I got a babysitting gig while I'm here for the next month-and-a-half! A much needed job, answer to prayer! One day a week, so I have the rest of the week to still do what I had planned. What I had planned:

1. Bike to Starbucks to finish my Grad papers from the internship. I have already started building community there, and I want to be able to continue that!

2. Catch up & build community with friends and new people {fusion}. Going to small groups. Continuing with running partners. I need accountability on this because I am introverted and at times I just want to relax!

3. REST & meditate (meditate on many things, one being God). This practice has been so good for my health and well-being, spiritually and mentally, since I have started. I recommend it, no, I say it is NECESSARY for great health! The act of blocking out thoughts and worries to let refreshing ones in. And meditating on the positive.

So yes, I will be able to have that feeling of being productive again, and have some extra $ for the things I take for granted, like gas for my car :)

Meditation & Silence Time

2011-11-15T20:02:00.000-08:00

It's amazing what things come to me when I sit down and meditate.

Fiction/Spoken Word that came to my mind. This is dedicated to a friend who's mother is going through a sickness right now, and I can only imagine what she is going through, the pain is real, but I hope this brings some light to her day!

We live our lives by what we have always known.

2-story house. Nice car. Dinner on the table at 5pm.

Then one day the doctor tells you some news and your reality is turned around.

What does a house matter when the person you love is not here to share it?

I was so selfish. Always wanting things, And why?

Because you feel you need one,

If you don't your in-laws might look down on you.

People might not think highly of you.

You're not cool anymore.

But when you hear the news that someone close to you has cancer,

society doesn't seem to matter anymore.

People's opinions don't seem to matter anymore.

What is life about? Why does it take something like this to make me yearn for a connection with my Creator?

When all this time I could have been having coffee with Him every morning.

Getting close with Him.

So that something like this wouldn't have to seem like such a big deal. Because these things are only temporary.

Now's my chance to rekindle an old friendship.

To get to know an old relationship, that wasn't really there, It's like saying "I do" then ignoring the person every day after that unless you want something from them for yourself.

But the prayer, it was true, I felt it, my heart yearning for connection. And now's my chance to start over, to continue what I know I have always wanted.

That relationship.

That love.

That embrace.

That HOPE.

That joy.

To get poured into my life.

And to pour out to others.

Because then things like the doctor's news

might leave me with less questions asking, "Why?"

I might feel comforted, and be able to spread that hope

to others.

A few things and Hopefully LAST update:

2011-11-15T14:41:00.000-08:00

I went into my sister's old empty bedroom in hopes of an empty space to refocus my mind, thoughts and meditate on what God wanted me to do right then. This is a time of waiting, not knowing what the next chapter in my life should and will consist. All I know is that I want to use my life to share God's love with others, and I want what I am doing to be what God has for me. I want to know that I am trusting Him in my plans.

But how could I make sure of that?

So I closed the door, closed my eyes, opened my heart and poured out the desire I had for God to pour into my life right now. Right now. I have the next few weeks free from a 9-5 job, I have been building my relationships with people but I realized I needed to work on building my personal relationship with Him.

During the few minutes of deep breathing, clearing my mind, re-focusing, and pouring out my heart, I prayed that whatever I was going to read today would impact me in some way.

I flipped my bible open to Psalm 23, where in big letters I had written "REST" right next to the passage. I read and prayed and read some more. And prayed even more.

God poured into my life with this passage. It hit me that instead of trying to fill my time with as much as I can, maybe the best thing to do right now is rest: my body, my soul, my mind, my heart. Maybe the wisest way to use my time is to rest now that I can. There is something about getting away from my texting, getting away from my facebook, stumbleupon.com, and the internet that calms my body and mind during that time of meditation. After that personal time with my Creator, I felt rejuvenated and relaxed, free from the burdens of financial worries or worries of not accomplishing enough.

I then closed my journal, opened my door and grabbed my computer to check my e-mails (I can't get away from that computer!) I opened an e-mail from Camp Adventure (what I had been anxiously waiting on) that said, "A spot has opened up for Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Please respond ASAP if you wish to accept this position." So with little hesitation I e-mailed them back right away to accept! I also got a text from a friend for a babysitting job once a week for the next few weeks I am here!

I don't feel this usually happens to me, so much good stuff all at one time, but it emphasized the fact that letting God deal with the plans after I put myself out there lessens my worry and allows me to trust him-fully-with my life!

I double checked with Camp A to CONFIRM that I am accepted and this is where I will be before I announced it here. So as of right now, I am going to be stationed at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii working at the CDC on base from Jan 15 until May 12, 2011. Yay!!!

Imagine if the little things in life never blinded us from what really mattered.

2011-11-14T18:13:00.000-08:00

Imagine if physical possessions did not anchor us inside of ourselves.

Imagine if the worries of yesterday and the fears of tomorrow did not keep us from living in the gift of the present.

Imagine if pride was only a {vacancy} in our minds, and tangible equality was more than just an ideal.

Imagine if the quest to better ones self did not mean that all others were ~~simply forgotten~~ but that we're all connected, and the betterment of one means the benefit of all.

Imagine if the desire to be accepted did not call for disingenuous compromise on how one lives their life.

Imagine: a world free of terms like "hunger" and "poverty" due to the abundance of love and compassion where health and comfort swiftly followed.

Imagine if "free will" meant free to make the right choice, the best choice, every time.

Imagine: a world without tears, where all the pain we once knew no longer existed.

Imagine if imagination was more than just a mental image of something that is not perceived as real.

Population...Me?

2011-11-13T13:02:00.000-08:00

Community
This seems to be popping up into my life.
It must be important.

Somebody once told me that humans are desperate for connection. Thus, we need to be desperate for each other. This is important to remember because it makes meeting new people easier when we know we need each other....also so that we can all keep each other encouraged and live life together. All of us.

I was in my car and the radio was turned to a station that doesn't come in too well so I usually don't turn it on. The static faded and this song came on; the radio was pretty loud over my subconscious humming. I was so ~~encouraged?~~ ~~touched?~~ motivated by these lyrics that I am making a post about it right here to pass on to you readers.

Quick Update:

2011-11-11T23:50:00.000-08:00

So, I got an e-mail saying I'm on the "waitlist" for Germany.
This made me realize how good it IS TO ENTANGLE MYSELF IN THE COMMUNITY I AM IN RIGHT NOW.
Nothing is for sure in the future. Who knows what will happen. Only God does. I can only look for Him for guidance and have faith that where I am right now is where I'm meant to be.

Different Perspectives

2011-11-02T18:12:00.000-07:00

(If you look closely at the photo, you can see two different perspectives)

By looking at something a different way than you are used to, a change in perspective, life seems a lot bigger and the opportunities around you seem endless.

Here is an excerpt from one of my papers I wrote about my time in Italy:

"Surrounded by the foreign culture of Italy, I was blessed to have so many new experiences. When the interns first looked to eat for dinner the night we arrived in Italy, we realized most places were closed from 4pm until 7pm. When we finally got to a restaurant to sit down, the waiters were very hospitable and made us feel like we were family. Many hostels we stayed at allowed us to pay whenever we wanted, whereas in America the credit card is the first thing a company would make sure to take. Many different types of Italians used the bus for transportation. When I passed the houses on my bike ride from the CDC, there were many people sitting outside on their porches, entangled in conversation with a visitor or family member. Also, during the three hours that restaurants would close, it was very likely that the owner was outside sitting at a table with friends having a conversation.

Now that I am back from Europe, I am actively incorporating parts of the Italian culture into my everyday life. I appreciate the people in my life now and make time to invest in their life, and them to invest in mine. Living and working with four other people from around the country has allowed me to be open-minded and more confident in meeting people. Working the long hours taught me to use my time wisely and appreciate the down time I do have. Since I’ve been back, I have been allowing myself a full night of sleep, and before I go to sleep I read a chapter of a book. Self-reflection is important for me to discover new things about myself, especially when I am alone and can easily forget my identity. Journaling is a way for me to use what I learn in my life to my full advantage. I walk and ride my bicycle for transportation more often than I used to; this allows me to be around the nature that I am surrounded in."

60 Ways To Make Life Simple Again

2011-11-02T10:38:00.000-07:00

Taken From: http://www.marcandangel.com/

This site has many many more inspirational essays to read!

When we were young life was easier, right? I know sometimes it seems that way. But the truth is life still is easy. It always will be. The only difference is we’re older, and the older we get, the more we complicate things for ourselves.

You see, when we were young we saw the world through simple, hopeful eyes. We knew what we wanted and we had no biases or concealed agendas. We liked people who smiled. We avoided people who frowned. We ate when we were hungry, drank when we were thirsty, and slept when we were tired.

As we grew older our minds became gradually disillusioned by negative external influences. At some point we began to hesitate and question our instincts. When a new obstacle or growing pain arose, we stumbled and a fell down. This happened several times. Eventually we decided we didn’t want to fall again, but rather than solving the problem that caused us to fall, we avoided it all together.

As a result, we ate comfort food and drank alcohol to numb our wounds and fill our voids. We worked late nights on purpose to avoid unresolved conflicts at home. We started holding grudges, playing mind games, and subtly deceiving others and ourselves to get ahead. And when it didn’t work out, we lived above our means, bought things we didn’t need, and ate and drank some more just to make ourselves feel better again.

Over the course of time, we made our lives more and more difficult, and we started losing touch with who we really are and what we really need.

So let’s get back to the basics, shall we? Let’s make things simple again. It’s easy. Here are 60 ways to do just that:

Don’t try to read other people’s minds. Don’t make other people try to read yours. Communicate.

Be polite, but don’t try to be friends with everyone around you. Instead, spend time nurturing your relationships with the people who matter most to you.
Your health is your life, keep up with it. Get an annual physical check-up.
Live below your means. Don’t buy stuff you don’t need. Always sleep on big purchases. Create a budget and savings plan and stick to both of them.
Get enough sleep every night. An exhausted mind is rarely productive.
Get up 30 minutes earlier so you don’t have to rush around like a mad man. That 30 minutes will help you avoid speeding tickets, tardiness, and other unnecessary headaches.
Get off your high horse, talk it out, shake hands or hug, and move on.
Don’t waste your time on jealously. The only person you’re competing against is yourself.
Surround yourself with people who fill your gaps. Let them do the stuff they’re better at so you can do the stuff you’re better at.
Organize your living space and working space. Read David Allen’s bookGetting Things Done for some practical organizational guidance.
Get rid of stuff you don’t use.
Ask someone if you aren’t sure.
Spend a little time now learning a time-saving trick or shortcut that you can use over and over again in the future.
Don’t try to please everyone. Just do what you know is right.
Don’t drink alcohol or consume recreational drugs when you’re mad or sad. Take a jog instead.
Be sure to pay your bills on time.
Fill up your gas tank on the way home, not in the morning when you’re in a hurry.
Use technology to automate tasks.
Handle important two-minute tasks immediately.
Relocate closer to your place of employment.
Don’t steal.
Always be honest with yourself and others.
Say “I love you” to your loved ones as often as possible.
Single-task. Do one thing at a time and give it all you got.
Finish one project before you start another.
Be yourself.
When traveling, pack light. Don’t bring it unless you absolutely must.
Clean up after yourself. Don’t put it off until later.
Learn to cook, and cook.
Make a weekly (healthy) menu, and shop for only the items you need.
Consider buying and cooking food in bulk. If you make a large portion of something on Sunday, you can eat leftovers several times during the week without spending more time cooking.
Stay out of other people’s drama. And don’t needlessly create your own.
Buy things with cash.
Maintain your car, home, and other personal belongings you rely on.
Smile often, even to complete strangers.
If you hate doing it, stop it.
Treat everyone with the same level of respect you would give to your grandfather and the same level of patience you would have with your baby brother.
Apologize when you should.
Write things down.
Be curious. Don’t be scared to learn something new.
Explore new ideas and opportunities often.
Don’t be shy. Network with people. Meet new people.
Don’t worry too much about what other people think about you.
Spend time with nice people who are smart, driven, and likeminded.
Don’t text and drive. Don’t drink and drive.
Drink water when you’re thirsty.
Don’t eat when you’re bored. Eat when you’re hungry.
Exercise every day. Simply take a long, relaxing walk or commit 30 minutes to an at-home exercise program like the P90X workout.
Let go of things you can’t change. Concentrate on things you can.
Find hard work you actually enjoy doing.
Realize that the harder you work, the luckier you will become.
Follow your heart. Don’t waste your life fulfilling someone else’s dreams and desires.
Set priorities for yourself and act accordingly.
Take it slow and add up all your small victories.
However good or bad a situation is now, it will change. Accept this simple fact.
Excel at what you do. Otherwise you’ll just frustrate yourself.
Mature, but don’t grow up too fast.
Realize that you’re never quite as right as you think you are.
Build something or do something that makes you proud.
Make mistakes, learn from them, laugh about them, and move along.
Don’t try to read other people’s minds. Don’t make other people try to read yours. Communicate.

2011-11-01T10:30:00.000-07:00

We worry about what a child will become tomorrow, yet we forget that he is someone today. ~Stacia Tauscher

Happy "Peanuts" Halloween

2011-11-01T10:23:00.000-07:00

Little Red Hair Girl, Linus, The Better Charlie Brown, Charlie Brown, Pilot Snoopy.

True Words From My Mother #2

2011-11-01T10:02:00.001-07:00

"If you live past the age of 100 and they ask what you did, tell them it's all of the olives you ate"

2011-10-31T08:22:00.000-07:00

YOU OTHER READERS CAN’T DENY
WHEN A BOOK WALKS IN WITH A GOOD PLOT BASE
AND A BIG SPINE IN YOUR FACE YOU GET SPRUNG
WANNA PULL OUT YOUR PENS
‘CAUSE YOU NOTICED THAT BOOK WAS DENSE
READING, HALF-RIMS I’M WEARING
I’M HOOKED AND I AIN’T CARING
OH BABY I WANT AN E-READER
AND A MEANINGFUL METER
MY TEACHERS TRIED TO TRAIN ME
THAT BOOK YOU GOT MAKES ME SO BRAINY

Advice From A Friend, Etc.

2011-10-30T22:21:00.000-07:00

My friend Hannah gave me good advice. Her advice was to get the most involved I can in these months and do as much as I can in the organizations I am connected to, while I'm here. It makes sense. Living each day for the day, not looking to the future, the possibility of going off to Europe again and leaving.
Being back, I really really appreciate the communities I have here, and my life would be totally different without them! Today, the pastor at my church spoke about the three guys who wouldn't worship the king as a god so they got thrown into the fire. They survived by God. But think about it, would one of them have defended their faith, if it was just him suffering and not his friends with him?
We are desperate for connection, and we need to admit that we are desperate for each other.
We need each other.

I am really excited of what my presence will do for Fusion in these next months!

It's A Good Thing

2011-10-30T07:48:00.001-07:00

I went to Starbucks to download The Wild Thornberrys episodes on my computer (Score!) and as I was leaving one of the Baristas handed me a Vente Iced Mocha because they messed up somebody's order and could give it away. God blesses me so much, in these little ways!

Then I went to Hannah's condo and hung out with her and Gen. It was like I had never left. It is so exciting to catch up with friends and learn about what they have been doing the past few months. Everyone's life is so exciting. We don't realize sometimes the things that don't seem like a big deal, are under-appreciated. That it is easy to take things for granted when we get into the routine, That is what I discovered about Fusion in our lives: We are so blessed to have a group that genuinely cares about each others lives and are joined with a common knowledge that God's way is the best way. Helping each other through life and giving advice based on grounded principles, reflects true caring for each other.

It's a good thing.

There's something magical about this picture

2011-10-29T16:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween, friends!

2011-10-27T10:50:00.001-07:00

I can relate to this one right now:

Cutest thing ever. You have to watch it till the end

South American, Wild Indian Story

2011-10-26T18:56:00.000-07:00

Click and read. This is a section from The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver

I was just told I act like a retired person

2011-10-26T18:47:00.000-07:00

I woke up today at 5:45 am, and got myself up a little later but I wish I would get up earlier still. It starts my day off right and I get alot more done. Got the newspaper again, an infant was saved from an earthquakes rubble- I could use this for my child development research, I think. I pick out the Fiber One instead of the Kashi Heart-to-Heart for change to spice up my day. When I’m done I adjust my Switzerland ear cover band and hop on my bike for the regular 10 minute ride to Starbucks.

I walk in and greet Ralph, we chat it up for a bit and then I go to the counter where I count out four quarters six dimes and a nickel to pay for my coffee. I am excited to see the table in the corner is free because it is usually the most popular one since it is right by the place where you can plug your computer chord in. After four hours, a tall coffee and a piece of banana bread that was too soggy I finish my paper. I bike back home and clean my room until I get exhausted and write this here.

kicks and giggles

2011-10-26T09:26:00.000-07:00

Complements of @Ashwani Narwani

LIG baby, life is good

2011-10-25T16:56:00.000-07:00

I woke up, still jet-lagged so it was 5:30am. I am reading The Bean Trees, a book I will send back in the mail to a friend. I read that book for an hour. My bare feet were cold as I walked to the shower and I turned on my ipod on to He is We. I looked online for hair inspiration and discovered a runway model braid hairstyle that looked doable, so I tried my best to replicate it. And the make-up. It was natural-looking with beige lips and light blush. It turned out ok.

My outfit was picked out with thought. I should have worn pants because it was cold today but it’s too late to worry about that. I decided to wear socks with my shoes today because I did the laundry yesterday and found two matching clean ones. My feet echoed when I walked into my mom’s bedroom. She was asleep. I told her I was taking my bike to the Starbucks on the corner of the street. Ok she said. Marley walked down the stairs to eat, that is my dog who doesn’t know her own business from anyone elses. I turned the doorknob and retrieve the morning paper. Something about protesters, and Michael Jackson. Is that my friend in the crowd of people on the front page? I wouldn’t be surprised. I grabbed the cereal with Oats because that is what I eat everyday and it doesn’t taste very good but is good for the body I guess.

I brushed my teeth because I only go to the dentist once a year now so I have to take extra care of them. And with all this coffee I drink I want to keep my teeth from turning yellow. I heard if you drink it with a straw it will help your teeth stay white but I think that is ridiculous because then you get wrinkles around your mouth. So I just drink it normal.

I walk outside and close the screen door but it gets jammed half way because it always does that. O-well so I close the glass door and look at the wet puddles of rainwater on my bike seat. Damn. I grab a towel and wipe it off then I sit on the seat and pedal my way to my place of escape.

This place I call my escape is just the coffee shop on the corner where I get a $1.65 cup of coffee every which I know is too expesive and the money adds up but owell. It’s not too far for an escape but it gives me a change of scenery without having to use up gas in my car because we all know gas prices are outrageous these days and this place is just fine. So I park my bike and see my friend Ralph in the front of the shop sitting in his usual place. His two dogs are sitting under the table because they are guide dogs and better not make a fuss or they know what will happen. He invites me to sit and we chat for some time before I get up to get my coffee and sit on my computer to write this here.

Something my mom said

2011-10-24T09:05:00.000-07:00

At Walmart with my mom:

"Be lucky you live so close to a WalMart...You probably will never live this close to one...unless you become a bum and live in the bushes over there. Ya, then you would live close."

Encouraging, mother.

2011-10-24T03:55:00.000-07:00

live by this

Welcome Home!

2011-10-23T11:25:00.000-07:00

I came home to 83 degree weather!

The Dolemites/ Bolzano (Northern Italia)

2011-10-18T10:21:00.000-07:00

These photos are out of order, but we went hiking along the Dolemites. They are called dolemites instead of just mountains because they go straight up, canyon-like! We found this guy named Norbert who opens his house to travelers, and also has a hut he rents out. This was such an experience!

All of those at the hut we stayed at!

Child Development Post

2011-10-17T11:50:00.000-07:00

Today, with a baby in one hand, another sitting on the floor next to me, and reaching to stop one from eating the styraphome stamp, I had time to think. Like most every day, I try my best to soak up the experiences I am going through and evaluate if I can see myself doing this for a while, even as a career.
I have thought about how much fun I would have doing art with the kids, creating birthday boards, things like that. What I thought about today was the windows, and how creative I could get making window displays all around the classroom, windows.
I would make an artist 'lookbook' of ideas. Do stuff like my friend, Jessica, does as an intern at Anthropologie, the main store & website I go to for design ideas.
I'd have so much fun with those displays!

2011-10-11T10:53:00.000-07:00

Our Co-worker Susan invited us over for lunch at her house and wine tasting at a really nice winery. It was like a dream come true!! -Crystal

Market, Medieval Castle, Michael Angelo

2011-10-11T10:23:00.000-07:00

Our co-worker/friend Jen took us to a local market, then to a castle and last to this local restaurant which holds the place where supposedly Michael Angelo studied.

Listen to the Lyrics, ya

2011-10-11T10:20:00.000-07:00

Have you ever thought about
What protects our hearts
Just a cage of rib bones, and other various parts.

Grey-Haired Men and Hippies

2011-10-08T10:17:00.000-07:00

Talking about her mother: "Lorraine's family didn't own a car until she was 13 years old, so Aletha and the children walked to a nearby church every Sunday morning. That particular church excelled at educating children in bible stories but put little emphasis on having a genuine relationship with God that could influence everyday life. So to Lorraine, the church seemed more like a social club than a place to gain faith that mattered."
-Lisa Beamer, "Let's Roll"

I turned on the TV last night (for the first time since I have been here), and flipping through the channels came across one of those "church on TV" stations. The 65 year old gray-haired preacher talks in a loud firm voice, walking back and forth with his finger waving in the air and putting an emphasis on every other word he says. I didn't know these types of religious meetings existed still! I hontestly couldn't watch any more of it, it was not relevant to me, and if this is what the bible is all about, I wouldn't want any part of it!

I believe the new generation, a generation some would call "New-agy and the new hippy" is doing a good job at living like Jesus in relationships with others so others can be introduced to what Jesus really is all about. No, we're not saints, yet when we are admitting that we are not perfect and never will be, others are more trusting of us and willing to listen to our ideas and beliefs.

Once they listen, they can see our belief of community instead of seeing people like the man on the TV screen yelling out the rules and laws of Christianity.

(FYI: The man on the TV Screen might have good intentions, but fails to realize how others percieve his preaching style)

2011-10-04T15:01:00.000-07:00

The song that came to my mind at work today when I had to remember to "brush it off".