On Tuesday night I attended a youth group devotional at Henderson church of Christ. I enjoyed it immensely and will probably attend them regularly.
What struck me the most was my friend, Jared's devotional. It was about thinking. Now, to be perfectly honest, when he stood up and exclaimed this topic...I was hesitant. I thought, "Oh, another surface level devo for the little high schoolers.
I was wrong. I love it when God shows me that I'm wrong.
Jared talked about the millions of menial thoughts that go through our minds daily. What to wear, the temperature outside, the volume of my alarm, the low gas gauge in my car, the dirt on my tennis shoe............you get the point. There are thoughts going on in our minds that WE DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT.
With all of that going on in our heads sometimes we forget to control all of the things we let in our minds. You know the phrase, "Garbage in, garbage out?"....it's so true. How many negative thoughts do we allow in our heads? How much impure, disrespectful, unGodly things do we just let pass into the abyss of our minds? It just piles up like a landfill. Rotting. Decaying. Undoing all of the good that we worked for.
I want to take this to another level. I think a big disservice that we all do to ourselves is not maintaining good mental health practices. We eat right and exercise for bodily health. We study for knowledge. We clean our planet for environmental health.
What about emotional health?
Remember when we were little, and we learned about feelings? That is a good start to emotional health. But after that....it pretty much stops. We never are taught how to handle certain life changes and emotions that overcome us as we grow. We don't learn how to battle negative thoughts about OURSELVES.
So. Do me a big favor. Only think GOOD things. About yourself, about others, about God. Challenge yourself to go through one day without complaining, whining, or being negative. It's a lot harder than it sounds, but it will be a great day. :-)
"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things." Philippians 4:8.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Have a Little Faith in Me.
There area few phrases that give me a heart attack when directed at me.
"I trust you."
"I know you'll do a good job."
"I'm going to put you in charge of this."
And in the past 48 hours, they've all been said to me. I don't know how much more my heart can take.
I like being busy and involved. I like serving. Some Responsibility? Sure.
It also scares me. I feel unworthy.
When I've failed, other friends have shrugged their shoulders and "learned their lesson" not to trust me. They've taken away responsibilities. They lost faith. I became discouraged and felt incapable of living up to expectations.
There's someone in my life who I feel has always had faith in me. She has every reason to doubt me and never give me any responsibility ever again. And yet, she never fails to hand me something else that she knows I can do. And will do. Because I refuse to let her down.
I think she has the same attitude towards me that God has. He knows I CAN, but the choice is up to me. I have responsibility, but it's up to me to do it. He doesn't lose faith in me...but I lose faith in Him.
So with all of this responsibility on me: my job, tea party stuff, graduate applications, being a good Christian, substitute teaching Bible classes, maintaining relationships, money management..............I know I CAN... and it's time to prove it.
"I trust you."
"I know you'll do a good job."
"I'm going to put you in charge of this."
And in the past 48 hours, they've all been said to me. I don't know how much more my heart can take.
I like being busy and involved. I like serving. Some Responsibility? Sure.
It also scares me. I feel unworthy.
When I've failed, other friends have shrugged their shoulders and "learned their lesson" not to trust me. They've taken away responsibilities. They lost faith. I became discouraged and felt incapable of living up to expectations.
There's someone in my life who I feel has always had faith in me. She has every reason to doubt me and never give me any responsibility ever again. And yet, she never fails to hand me something else that she knows I can do. And will do. Because I refuse to let her down.
I think she has the same attitude towards me that God has. He knows I CAN, but the choice is up to me. I have responsibility, but it's up to me to do it. He doesn't lose faith in me...but I lose faith in Him.
So with all of this responsibility on me: my job, tea party stuff, graduate applications, being a good Christian, substitute teaching Bible classes, maintaining relationships, money management..............I know I CAN... and it's time to prove it.
Friday, March 18, 2011
True Mountain Men
One of the things that stood out to me on my trip was the men.
Robert and Ben.
Both excellent preachers and Christian brothers. Let me tell you why.
They wanted to do devos every night. Even though it entailed them doing the brunt of the work. They took turns leading singing and speaking. It was very spiritually uplifting.
When faced with immodest women, they looked away, changed the TV channel or got away from it. It was simple as that. No questions asked, no exceptions.
They were careful to pick good, clean entertainment for us (music, TV, movies).
They're funny.
They care. When Eb was sick, Robert helped take care of her. Ben made sure that none of us were attacked... I was definitely in good care with them.
Yes, I'm blessed with good Christian friends.
Robert and Ben.
Both excellent preachers and Christian brothers. Let me tell you why.
They wanted to do devos every night. Even though it entailed them doing the brunt of the work. They took turns leading singing and speaking. It was very spiritually uplifting.
When faced with immodest women, they looked away, changed the TV channel or got away from it. It was simple as that. No questions asked, no exceptions.
They were careful to pick good, clean entertainment for us (music, TV, movies).
They're funny.
They care. When Eb was sick, Robert helped take care of her. Ben made sure that none of us were attacked... I was definitely in good care with them.
Yes, I'm blessed with good Christian friends.
Mountain Saga: Initial Emotions
I haven't blogged in a while. I've been in Gatlingburg on "Spring Break" also known as Vacation for those of us with real jobs. Our hotel was the only one on the planet without free wi-fi. (Not that I'm complaining-my hotel was paid for.) If anything, it helped me get into the mountain mood. I spent the week with great Christian friends, relaxing, laughing, crying...it was amazing.
While there, I did do a bit of writing as well. I wrote this on the first night we got there.
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While there, I did do a bit of writing as well. I wrote this on the first night we got there.
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I’m so overcome with emotion.
I just took a bubble bath, in a hot tub, in my hotel room. Sarah, Elizabeth, and I are staying in the nicest hotel I’ve ever stayed in. We have a full kitchen (with washer/dryer), a living room with fireplace, 2 bedrooms (both of which have their own televisions, balconies, fireplaces, bathrooms, and hot tubs.)
Yeah.
I wasn’t going to blog during this week. I was going to relax. But there are some things that I need to say right now.
I’m not paying for most of this. I’m helping with gas, food, and my own things…but I did not pay for this hotel. Elizabeth’s parents did. This tells me 2 things: I am blessed beyond measure to have these people in my life AND aren’t God’s people amazing? The Nabors are the shining example of what I want to be when I grow up. Fun. Adventuresome. Hospitable. Generous. I wish and hope to repay them someday.
2. I doubted coming on this trip. Honestly lately I feel like my college friends have abandoned me. Like we’re on 2 different planets. I’m grown up and boring. But God knew I needed this. He provided the opportunity and I (grudgingly) accepted it. I thought this could be my last “hoorah” with my college buds before they graduate and move off. It might still be, but it’s so much more. He knows so much more than I do…I just need to shut up and realize. He knew this trip would do me good.
3. It is so hard for me to relax. I just took a bubble bath. While I watched Whose Line is it Anyway on TV. While drinking a Sun Drop. By all accounts, I should be relaxed. But my mind was still racing. My heart was thumping. My sister might be the ADHD one, but I have a hard time unwinding. I don’t remember the last time my mind just shut off.
So now I’m on the couch. I opened the balcony door to listen to the stream below. No TV, no music. Just me and rushing water. I’m so accustomed to noise (I fall asleep to the TV every night.) that I forgot how calming silence is. I need to sit in silence more often. I need to meditate, relax, and just stop. Be still and know that He is God.
4. I’m thankful for these friends. I’m so thankful that I can be crabby and snap at these 4 people and they shrug it off. They forgive…immediately. I’m blessed with friends who know me well enough to know that I have bad days and what I say is not what I mean. And that I can do the same for them. These people are hard to come by…so while I have them, I need to cherish them.
5. I’m thankful for all of the sweet, precious memories I have of this place. Gatlinburg. I’m thankful for the beautiful scenery. I’m thankful for all the people I’ve shared it with. I’m thankful for generous hearts, loving friends, Christian lives.
Most of all though, I’m thankful for the One who made it all. The One who gives it all. The One who is All. I cannot thank or praise Him enough.
Amen
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Modesty...Modestly
My friend Kristen has an awesome spiritual blog and on it, she gives passages for she and her fellow blogging friends to do inductive Bible studies on. This week she chose 1 Peter 3:3-4 which addresses modesty. I had already written this article about modesty a while ago and decided to repost. Enjoy!
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When most Christian girls see the word ‘modesty’ they automatically roll their eyes and think, “You’re going to lecture me on my clothes again, aren’t you?” I admit that I have sighed a sigh of disdain over the topic on several occasions.
But this is different. Let’s go deeper into this topic. It’s much more than just what you wear.
Look at the definitions of modesty:
1. The quality of being humble, free of vanity and boastfulness.
2. Regard for decency of behavior, speech, dress, etc.
3. Simplicity.
Only one of those definitions mentions dress. The rest are characteristics that direct your behavior, personality, and persona. Not physical things, but internal things. Heart matters.
Is your mind blown? Mine was. Turns out, modesty isn’t just about the way you dress.
So what is it about?
Let’s go to the Bible to find out.
9 in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety [proper behavior] and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, 10 but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works. (1 Tim 2:9-10)
What does this mean? In a nutshell, don’t draw attention to yourself through your outer beauty. This passage refers directly to worship practices. Women are not to distract people from worship. They are to adorn themselves instead with godliness and good works.
3 the older women likewise, that they be reverent [respectful] in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things— 4 that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, 5 to be discreet, chaste [pure], homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed. (Titus 2:3-5)
This exhorts women to be temperate, respectful, and reserved. In other words: Be modest in their demeanor.
3Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel— 4 rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God. (1 Peter 3:3-4)
Finally, we are to show the beauty in our hearts, not in our bodies. When people notice us, it is not for the mere outer shell, but for the beautiful Godly spirit that dwells within us. Again, women should be gentle and quiet, not drawing attention to ourselves.
So what does this all mean?
If we are true modest beings, we will act the part. Dress is a part of that, but there is so much more to focus on. Being modest will show through in our actions and interactions with people. We won’t draw attention to our physical beauty but instead to our inner adornment.
Monday, March 7, 2011
Victorian Tea Party...what?
I remember when I tried my first cup of hot tea. It was approximately June 6th, 2008. I was in Scotland on a mission trip, and as culture dictated, we had hot tea and biscuits for a snack. Growing up in the South, I was a tad nervous about trying something that wasn't chilled in ice and had a cup of sugar infused into it.
Enter Kristen Hicks (who was a Hester at the time.) I had only met her a week before but we were going to spend the next 2 weeks sleeping in the same room. She excitedly jumped on the fact that I was going to try Scottish tea for the first time and she offered to make me a cup "with the fixings." I could not for the life of me understand why this was so exciting for her. (That was before I knew her well, of course.)
It was at that moment that I fell in love with all things tea. It was delicious and I just had to have more. I spent the next year with my Tetley and my herbal-fruit blends. I was a certified tea-drinker.
Fast forward to May 2010. Kristen was involved in a Victorian Tea Party for the FHU Associates (a group of lovely ladies who raise money for scholarships.) She had a lot to do and I offered to help.I had never been to a real tea party before. I mean, I couldn't cook very well, I'm not great at being all classy...but I figured I could carry a box, wash dishes, SOMETHING unclassy and mediocre.
So Kristen gave me the task of helping cook and greeting guests at the door. Both of which I laughed incredulously at. Did she know me? After 2 years of friendship she really wants me to make delightful cucumber sandwiches and SOCIALIZE?! She really put too much faith in me.
But I succeeded. I was charming. Read about it here. And despite the fact that we had a tea party amongst a flood, tornadoes, no electricity, and a venue change...we had a great time.
This year comes along and I asked Kristen if I could help again. She agreed (and again, I hope she knows what she's doing.) But it strikes me as odd that I, queen of all things redneck and unclassy, would WANT to be involved in a Victorian Tea Party. Why is this so exciting to me?
The answer is: the tea party has something for everyone. It brings families together for a fun afternoon. It raises money for students who might otherwise not be able to attend a private Christian college. There's great food, and who doesn't like great food? There's something for everyone. And you should attend.
Enter Kristen Hicks (who was a Hester at the time.) I had only met her a week before but we were going to spend the next 2 weeks sleeping in the same room. She excitedly jumped on the fact that I was going to try Scottish tea for the first time and she offered to make me a cup "with the fixings." I could not for the life of me understand why this was so exciting for her. (That was before I knew her well, of course.)
It was at that moment that I fell in love with all things tea. It was delicious and I just had to have more. I spent the next year with my Tetley and my herbal-fruit blends. I was a certified tea-drinker.
Fast forward to May 2010. Kristen was involved in a Victorian Tea Party for the FHU Associates (a group of lovely ladies who raise money for scholarships.) She had a lot to do and I offered to help.I had never been to a real tea party before. I mean, I couldn't cook very well, I'm not great at being all classy...but I figured I could carry a box, wash dishes, SOMETHING unclassy and mediocre.
So Kristen gave me the task of helping cook and greeting guests at the door. Both of which I laughed incredulously at. Did she know me? After 2 years of friendship she really wants me to make delightful cucumber sandwiches and SOCIALIZE?! She really put too much faith in me.
But I succeeded. I was charming. Read about it here. And despite the fact that we had a tea party amongst a flood, tornadoes, no electricity, and a venue change...we had a great time.
This year comes along and I asked Kristen if I could help again. She agreed (and again, I hope she knows what she's doing.) But it strikes me as odd that I, queen of all things redneck and unclassy, would WANT to be involved in a Victorian Tea Party. Why is this so exciting to me?
The answer is: the tea party has something for everyone. It brings families together for a fun afternoon. It raises money for students who might otherwise not be able to attend a private Christian college. There's great food, and who doesn't like great food? There's something for everyone. And you should attend.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Top Ten: Things I Should Carry in my Purse, but don't.
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1. Headphones. Sometimes I get caught in a long line, waiting room, or quiet coffeeshop with the urge to listen to a song or video. Instead of breaking social protocol and blaring it for everyone to hear, I sheepishly put my phone away for later. But really, I just don't want those around me to laugh at me for watching another video of a cute kitten.
2. Tissues: Haven't you ever had that sudden snot drip, booger attack, or hormonal crying spell? Well I have. And then I have to use half-ply toilet paper or my sleeve...neither of which is really sanitary.
3. A book. Instead of rifling through millions of lame youtube videos on my "computer-phone" I could be doing something intellectual. And I could get back into the habit of reading.
4. Hair accouterments: For that windy day that leaves me looking like a bewildered bird's nest...or a hairpin for my alfalfa twig.
5. Band-aids: I'm a bit of a klutz sometimes....as are strangers around me who ask for band-aids.
6. Food: So. I have the WEIRDEST eating habits. Let me just tell you. When I'm hungry, I eat...but mostly it's just a couple crackers or a peach. I mean, I eat meals...of like mixed veggies or beef stew or something...but usually, I just snack a lot. Healthily. I mean, I don't just gorge. The point is, when I'm hungry and in my car in rush hour traffic on the way home from work...I tend to make fast food stops. Which is not good for my bank account or my hips. So keeping mini cereal boxes in my purse is good. And soda. Just to wash it down.
7. A notebook: I've been pretty consistent at carrying paper in my purse since I started carrying one. And then I got this iPhone (which I hate using for everything, and hate typing on...) so I need to reinstate the mini-notebook for errand lists, grocery lists, and sudden sparks of inspiration.
8. My camera: Imagine the most beautiful sunset you have ever seen. Or a 5 armed man with 7 pet cats on the side of the road. Or a unicorn. I've seen the most amazing things whilst toting my purse around. I rush to get my (you guessed it) iPhone to snap a picture and realize that it's too dark, moving too fast, or the app won't load fast enough. *sigh* My high-quality camera could have done better.
9. Things that appease small children: Unprepared parents are my least favorite things. If you take a child to a doctor's office and YOU KNOW you're gonna sit in the waiting room for 2 hours...you need to bring toys. Books. Colors. SOMETHING. But if you don't, the kid will whine ("I'm booored.")...and the mom will get frustrated ("Be quiet and still!"). And people will judge you. (Namely me.) It's at these times that I wish I had a coloring book, or a hot wheels car in my purse to give said child. Bless their hearts.
10. Headache medicine: because after all of these things happen to me on an afternoon errand run...I'm going to have a headache.
2. Tissues: Haven't you ever had that sudden snot drip, booger attack, or hormonal crying spell? Well I have. And then I have to use half-ply toilet paper or my sleeve...neither of which is really sanitary.
3. A book. Instead of rifling through millions of lame youtube videos on my "computer-phone" I could be doing something intellectual. And I could get back into the habit of reading.
4. Hair accouterments: For that windy day that leaves me looking like a bewildered bird's nest...or a hairpin for my alfalfa twig.
5. Band-aids: I'm a bit of a klutz sometimes....as are strangers around me who ask for band-aids.
6. Food: So. I have the WEIRDEST eating habits. Let me just tell you. When I'm hungry, I eat...but mostly it's just a couple crackers or a peach. I mean, I eat meals...of like mixed veggies or beef stew or something...but usually, I just snack a lot. Healthily. I mean, I don't just gorge. The point is, when I'm hungry and in my car in rush hour traffic on the way home from work...I tend to make fast food stops. Which is not good for my bank account or my hips. So keeping mini cereal boxes in my purse is good. And soda. Just to wash it down.
7. A notebook: I've been pretty consistent at carrying paper in my purse since I started carrying one. And then I got this iPhone (which I hate using for everything, and hate typing on...) so I need to reinstate the mini-notebook for errand lists, grocery lists, and sudden sparks of inspiration.
8. My camera: Imagine the most beautiful sunset you have ever seen. Or a 5 armed man with 7 pet cats on the side of the road. Or a unicorn. I've seen the most amazing things whilst toting my purse around. I rush to get my (you guessed it) iPhone to snap a picture and realize that it's too dark, moving too fast, or the app won't load fast enough. *sigh* My high-quality camera could have done better.
9. Things that appease small children: Unprepared parents are my least favorite things. If you take a child to a doctor's office and YOU KNOW you're gonna sit in the waiting room for 2 hours...you need to bring toys. Books. Colors. SOMETHING. But if you don't, the kid will whine ("I'm booored.")...and the mom will get frustrated ("Be quiet and still!"). And people will judge you. (Namely me.) It's at these times that I wish I had a coloring book, or a hot wheels car in my purse to give said child. Bless their hearts.
10. Headache medicine: because after all of these things happen to me on an afternoon errand run...I'm going to have a headache.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Jen the Builder!
Have I ever told you that I'm cheap? Cuz I am.
So when I heard that Target had these 5 shelf bookcases on sale I HAD to have one. A goodly amount of my extensive book collection is currently boxed up or thrown meaninglessly onto a media case. Not a bookshelf.
I managed to manhandle this huge box into my cart. I manhandled it into my car (while several very worried parking lot dwellers observed.) I manhandled it into my house, onto the middle of the floor, and realized, "I'm going to have to assemble this." Great.
Well. I gathered my tool kit...and my courage. I tore open the box (after pushing the cat off.) And behold. A mess.
At least there were instructions, which read something like, "Take board A, attach swivelly tan metal piece Z into the eternal vortex of doom in the top." *SIGH* Part of me gave up and thought, "Tomorrow I will call a capable man to do this for me. I will bake him cookies, and offer him a soda, and watch him assemble my bookcase. We will have polite and entertaining conversations and I will be forever indebted to him for this act of service. Amen."
Then I heard my mother's voice. "Man-up and do it yourself." I figured I could at least try. And when I failed, I would have a nice dramatic sob story to tell the unfortunate fellow whom the task fell upon. Yes, I will be a damsel in distress. But not until after I tried.
So I did. And Spooky helped.
And an hour later.......after many many screws were twisted....nails were hammered.....pegs were stuck.....and bookcase was lifted...........TADA!
I DID IT! I made a bookshelf. Now, I did make one mistake. But since you cannot tell, I will not divulge. If you ever come over though, you will see.
So I went to bed content in my construction ability. And as I closed my eyes, I heard the distinct crash of my cat jumping onto the new toy and shattering a lamp in the process.
Ok, so not everything can be perfect. But I can now be called Jen the Builder.
So when I heard that Target had these 5 shelf bookcases on sale I HAD to have one. A goodly amount of my extensive book collection is currently boxed up or thrown meaninglessly onto a media case. Not a bookshelf.
I managed to manhandle this huge box into my cart. I manhandled it into my car (while several very worried parking lot dwellers observed.) I manhandled it into my house, onto the middle of the floor, and realized, "I'm going to have to assemble this." Great.
Well. I gathered my tool kit...and my courage. I tore open the box (after pushing the cat off.) And behold. A mess.
At least there were instructions, which read something like, "Take board A, attach swivelly tan metal piece Z into the eternal vortex of doom in the top." *SIGH* Part of me gave up and thought, "Tomorrow I will call a capable man to do this for me. I will bake him cookies, and offer him a soda, and watch him assemble my bookcase. We will have polite and entertaining conversations and I will be forever indebted to him for this act of service. Amen."Then I heard my mother's voice. "Man-up and do it yourself." I figured I could at least try. And when I failed, I would have a nice dramatic sob story to tell the unfortunate fellow whom the task fell upon. Yes, I will be a damsel in distress. But not until after I tried.
So I did. And Spooky helped.
And an hour later.......after many many screws were twisted....nails were hammered.....pegs were stuck.....and bookcase was lifted...........TADA!
I DID IT! I made a bookshelf. Now, I did make one mistake. But since you cannot tell, I will not divulge. If you ever come over though, you will see.So I went to bed content in my construction ability. And as I closed my eyes, I heard the distinct crash of my cat jumping onto the new toy and shattering a lamp in the process.
Ok, so not everything can be perfect. But I can now be called Jen the Builder.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Top 10: Things You Need to Know About Me
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1. I am a Christian. I simply cannot get through a single day, hour, minute, or second without God. It's in my DNA. I have a hard time carrying on a conversation without mentioning something related to Him or His Word.
2. I am NOT a girly girl, but I seem to be surrounded by them. Most of my friends enjoy all things pink and pretty...and while that is great and necessary, I just don't get it. I like things that are logical and functional. Practical. I've been known to wrap gifts in Wal-Mart bags. When wearing high heels, my gait is similar to that of a 2-legged gazelle with a lisp. I enjoy sports, cars, and lifting heavy boxes.
3. I love kids. My Bachelors degree is in Child and Family Studies. My current job is a nanny to a beautiful baby girl. I have a huge family with lots of little cousins who I adore. I'm certain that I can carry on a better conversation with a child than an adult on any given day. I think it's one of the talents that God gave me. Here are some of my sweet cousins.
4. I don't know what I want to do with life. This is a bit of a recent development. I think I want to go to graduate school and get my Masters in Counseling. I want to help people. I've figured that out. But I've also considered being a missionary, secretary, nanny, or flight attendant, or working in a TV station. Basically, I want to do something that makes me happy and close to God. I realized that I DON'T like doing the same thing everyday. I want somewhat of a flexible, differing schedule. Stay tuned as I figure that out.5. I'm a nerd. I like sci-fi and British shows. I like learning and reading. I enjoy working on computers. I enjoy being in class and taking notes. And The Big Bang Theory.
6. I like the arts. Theater: RENT, Phantom, Beauty and the Beast, Wicked, and plays in general. There are so many that I want to see but haven't had the chance. Art: Degas, Seurat, Monet, Warhol. Music, especially classical and choral. Photography. Dance. Poetry ESPECIALLY. Basically, any sort of expressed emotion. It's nice.
7. I can have a few obsessive tendencies, especially with organization. Things must be where they are supposed to be. Granted, sometimes I get busy and my house gets a little messy, but it drives me insane. I also have a weird obsession with change (or avoiding change). And I'm honest...blunt...*ahem* candid a lot. Sometimes I speak before I think. I suffer from word vomit. What can I say? We all have our issues. I'm working on it.
8. I love animals. I used to be terrified of dogs, but that mysteriously went away. I have a cat. He's feral. He attacks things and does not like to be petted. I also have the smartest dog on the planet. She's a little bit of a brat but I love her and can't bear to think of her passing. I've also owned hermit crabs. Someday I want to have a pet tarantula.
9. I have an affinity for the mind. Reading people. Instincts. Dreams. Environments. Emotions. Social protocol. I LOVE psychology. I love to figure out why people are the way they are. A lot of times I would rather observe people than converse with them.
10. I also love buttercups, strawberries, reading, tea, Scotland, The Office, ballet (I took dance for 10 years), singing, traveling, being with friends, laughing, the color gray.
In a nut shell, I'm eclectic. But then again, isn't everyone?
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Thinking
On Tuesday night I attended a youth group devotional at Henderson church of Christ. I enjoyed it immensely and will probably attend them regularly.
What struck me the most was my friend, Jared's devotional. It was about thinking. Now, to be perfectly honest, when he stood up and exclaimed this topic...I was hesitant. I thought, "Oh, another surface level devo for the little high schoolers.
I was wrong. I love it when God shows me that I'm wrong.
Jared talked about the millions of menial thoughts that go through our minds daily. What to wear, the temperature outside, the volume of my alarm, the low gas gauge in my car, the dirt on my tennis shoe............you get the point. There are thoughts going on in our minds that WE DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT.
With all of that going on in our heads sometimes we forget to control all of the things we let in our minds. You know the phrase, "Garbage in, garbage out?"....it's so true. How many negative thoughts do we allow in our heads? How much impure, disrespectful, unGodly things do we just let pass into the abyss of our minds? It just piles up like a landfill. Rotting. Decaying. Undoing all of the good that we worked for.
I want to take this to another level. I think a big disservice that we all do to ourselves is not maintaining good mental health practices. We eat right and exercise for bodily health. We study for knowledge. We clean our planet for environmental health.
What about emotional health?
Remember when we were little, and we learned about feelings? That is a good start to emotional health. But after that....it pretty much stops. We never are taught how to handle certain life changes and emotions that overcome us as we grow. We don't learn how to battle negative thoughts about OURSELVES.
So. Do me a big favor. Only think GOOD things. About yourself, about others, about God. Challenge yourself to go through one day without complaining, whining, or being negative. It's a lot harder than it sounds, but it will be a great day. :-)
"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things." Philippians 4:8.
What struck me the most was my friend, Jared's devotional. It was about thinking. Now, to be perfectly honest, when he stood up and exclaimed this topic...I was hesitant. I thought, "Oh, another surface level devo for the little high schoolers.
I was wrong. I love it when God shows me that I'm wrong.
Jared talked about the millions of menial thoughts that go through our minds daily. What to wear, the temperature outside, the volume of my alarm, the low gas gauge in my car, the dirt on my tennis shoe............you get the point. There are thoughts going on in our minds that WE DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT.
With all of that going on in our heads sometimes we forget to control all of the things we let in our minds. You know the phrase, "Garbage in, garbage out?"....it's so true. How many negative thoughts do we allow in our heads? How much impure, disrespectful, unGodly things do we just let pass into the abyss of our minds? It just piles up like a landfill. Rotting. Decaying. Undoing all of the good that we worked for.
I want to take this to another level. I think a big disservice that we all do to ourselves is not maintaining good mental health practices. We eat right and exercise for bodily health. We study for knowledge. We clean our planet for environmental health.
What about emotional health?
Remember when we were little, and we learned about feelings? That is a good start to emotional health. But after that....it pretty much stops. We never are taught how to handle certain life changes and emotions that overcome us as we grow. We don't learn how to battle negative thoughts about OURSELVES.
So. Do me a big favor. Only think GOOD things. About yourself, about others, about God. Challenge yourself to go through one day without complaining, whining, or being negative. It's a lot harder than it sounds, but it will be a great day. :-)
"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things." Philippians 4:8.
Have a Little Faith in Me.
There area few phrases that give me a heart attack when directed at me.
"I trust you."
"I know you'll do a good job."
"I'm going to put you in charge of this."
And in the past 48 hours, they've all been said to me. I don't know how much more my heart can take.
I like being busy and involved. I like serving. Some Responsibility? Sure.
It also scares me. I feel unworthy.
When I've failed, other friends have shrugged their shoulders and "learned their lesson" not to trust me. They've taken away responsibilities. They lost faith. I became discouraged and felt incapable of living up to expectations.
There's someone in my life who I feel has always had faith in me. She has every reason to doubt me and never give me any responsibility ever again. And yet, she never fails to hand me something else that she knows I can do. And will do. Because I refuse to let her down.
I think she has the same attitude towards me that God has. He knows I CAN, but the choice is up to me. I have responsibility, but it's up to me to do it. He doesn't lose faith in me...but I lose faith in Him.
So with all of this responsibility on me: my job, tea party stuff, graduate applications, being a good Christian, substitute teaching Bible classes, maintaining relationships, money management..............I know I CAN... and it's time to prove it.
"I trust you."
"I know you'll do a good job."
"I'm going to put you in charge of this."
And in the past 48 hours, they've all been said to me. I don't know how much more my heart can take.
I like being busy and involved. I like serving. Some Responsibility? Sure.
It also scares me. I feel unworthy.
When I've failed, other friends have shrugged their shoulders and "learned their lesson" not to trust me. They've taken away responsibilities. They lost faith. I became discouraged and felt incapable of living up to expectations.
There's someone in my life who I feel has always had faith in me. She has every reason to doubt me and never give me any responsibility ever again. And yet, she never fails to hand me something else that she knows I can do. And will do. Because I refuse to let her down.
I think she has the same attitude towards me that God has. He knows I CAN, but the choice is up to me. I have responsibility, but it's up to me to do it. He doesn't lose faith in me...but I lose faith in Him.
So with all of this responsibility on me: my job, tea party stuff, graduate applications, being a good Christian, substitute teaching Bible classes, maintaining relationships, money management..............I know I CAN... and it's time to prove it.
True Mountain Men
One of the things that stood out to me on my trip was the men.
Robert and Ben.
Both excellent preachers and Christian brothers. Let me tell you why.
They wanted to do devos every night. Even though it entailed them doing the brunt of the work. They took turns leading singing and speaking. It was very spiritually uplifting.
When faced with immodest women, they looked away, changed the TV channel or got away from it. It was simple as that. No questions asked, no exceptions.
They were careful to pick good, clean entertainment for us (music, TV, movies).
They're funny.
They care. When Eb was sick, Robert helped take care of her. Ben made sure that none of us were attacked... I was definitely in good care with them.
Yes, I'm blessed with good Christian friends.
Robert and Ben.
Both excellent preachers and Christian brothers. Let me tell you why.
They wanted to do devos every night. Even though it entailed them doing the brunt of the work. They took turns leading singing and speaking. It was very spiritually uplifting.
When faced with immodest women, they looked away, changed the TV channel or got away from it. It was simple as that. No questions asked, no exceptions.
They were careful to pick good, clean entertainment for us (music, TV, movies).
They're funny.
They care. When Eb was sick, Robert helped take care of her. Ben made sure that none of us were attacked... I was definitely in good care with them.
Yes, I'm blessed with good Christian friends.
Mountain Saga: Initial Emotions
I haven't blogged in a while. I've been in Gatlingburg on "Spring Break" also known as Vacation for those of us with real jobs. Our hotel was the only one on the planet without free wi-fi. (Not that I'm complaining-my hotel was paid for.) If anything, it helped me get into the mountain mood. I spent the week with great Christian friends, relaxing, laughing, crying...it was amazing.
While there, I did do a bit of writing as well. I wrote this on the first night we got there.
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While there, I did do a bit of writing as well. I wrote this on the first night we got there.
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I’m so overcome with emotion.
I just took a bubble bath, in a hot tub, in my hotel room. Sarah, Elizabeth, and I are staying in the nicest hotel I’ve ever stayed in. We have a full kitchen (with washer/dryer), a living room with fireplace, 2 bedrooms (both of which have their own televisions, balconies, fireplaces, bathrooms, and hot tubs.)
Yeah.
I wasn’t going to blog during this week. I was going to relax. But there are some things that I need to say right now.
I’m not paying for most of this. I’m helping with gas, food, and my own things…but I did not pay for this hotel. Elizabeth’s parents did. This tells me 2 things: I am blessed beyond measure to have these people in my life AND aren’t God’s people amazing? The Nabors are the shining example of what I want to be when I grow up. Fun. Adventuresome. Hospitable. Generous. I wish and hope to repay them someday.
2. I doubted coming on this trip. Honestly lately I feel like my college friends have abandoned me. Like we’re on 2 different planets. I’m grown up and boring. But God knew I needed this. He provided the opportunity and I (grudgingly) accepted it. I thought this could be my last “hoorah” with my college buds before they graduate and move off. It might still be, but it’s so much more. He knows so much more than I do…I just need to shut up and realize. He knew this trip would do me good.
3. It is so hard for me to relax. I just took a bubble bath. While I watched Whose Line is it Anyway on TV. While drinking a Sun Drop. By all accounts, I should be relaxed. But my mind was still racing. My heart was thumping. My sister might be the ADHD one, but I have a hard time unwinding. I don’t remember the last time my mind just shut off.
So now I’m on the couch. I opened the balcony door to listen to the stream below. No TV, no music. Just me and rushing water. I’m so accustomed to noise (I fall asleep to the TV every night.) that I forgot how calming silence is. I need to sit in silence more often. I need to meditate, relax, and just stop. Be still and know that He is God.
4. I’m thankful for these friends. I’m so thankful that I can be crabby and snap at these 4 people and they shrug it off. They forgive…immediately. I’m blessed with friends who know me well enough to know that I have bad days and what I say is not what I mean. And that I can do the same for them. These people are hard to come by…so while I have them, I need to cherish them.
5. I’m thankful for all of the sweet, precious memories I have of this place. Gatlinburg. I’m thankful for the beautiful scenery. I’m thankful for all the people I’ve shared it with. I’m thankful for generous hearts, loving friends, Christian lives.
Most of all though, I’m thankful for the One who made it all. The One who gives it all. The One who is All. I cannot thank or praise Him enough.
AmenModesty...Modestly
My friend Kristen has an awesome spiritual blog and on it, she gives passages for she and her fellow blogging friends to do inductive Bible studies on. This week she chose 1 Peter 3:3-4 which addresses modesty. I had already written this article about modesty a while ago and decided to repost. Enjoy!
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When most Christian girls see the word ‘modesty’ they automatically roll their eyes and think, “You’re going to lecture me on my clothes again, aren’t you?” I admit that I have sighed a sigh of disdain over the topic on several occasions.
But this is different. Let’s go deeper into this topic. It’s much more than just what you wear.
Look at the definitions of modesty:
1. The quality of being humble, free of vanity and boastfulness.
2. Regard for decency of behavior, speech, dress, etc.
3. Simplicity.
Only one of those definitions mentions dress. The rest are characteristics that direct your behavior, personality, and persona. Not physical things, but internal things. Heart matters.
Is your mind blown? Mine was. Turns out, modesty isn’t just about the way you dress.
So what is it about?
Let’s go to the Bible to find out.
9 in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety [proper behavior] and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, 10 but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works. (1 Tim 2:9-10)
What does this mean? In a nutshell, don’t draw attention to yourself through your outer beauty. This passage refers directly to worship practices. Women are not to distract people from worship. They are to adorn themselves instead with godliness and good works.
3 the older women likewise, that they be reverent [respectful] in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things— 4 that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, 5 to be discreet, chaste [pure], homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed. (Titus 2:3-5)
This exhorts women to be temperate, respectful, and reserved. In other words: Be modest in their demeanor.
3Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel— 4 rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God. (1 Peter 3:3-4)
Finally, we are to show the beauty in our hearts, not in our bodies. When people notice us, it is not for the mere outer shell, but for the beautiful Godly spirit that dwells within us. Again, women should be gentle and quiet, not drawing attention to ourselves.
So what does this all mean?
If we are true modest beings, we will act the part. Dress is a part of that, but there is so much more to focus on. Being modest will show through in our actions and interactions with people. We won’t draw attention to our physical beauty but instead to our inner adornment.
Victorian Tea Party...what?
I remember when I tried my first cup of hot tea. It was approximately June 6th, 2008. I was in Scotland on a mission trip, and as culture dictated, we had hot tea and biscuits for a snack. Growing up in the South, I was a tad nervous about trying something that wasn't chilled in ice and had a cup of sugar infused into it.
Enter Kristen Hicks (who was a Hester at the time.) I had only met her a week before but we were going to spend the next 2 weeks sleeping in the same room. She excitedly jumped on the fact that I was going to try Scottish tea for the first time and she offered to make me a cup "with the fixings." I could not for the life of me understand why this was so exciting for her. (That was before I knew her well, of course.)
It was at that moment that I fell in love with all things tea. It was delicious and I just had to have more. I spent the next year with my Tetley and my herbal-fruit blends. I was a certified tea-drinker.
Fast forward to May 2010. Kristen was involved in a Victorian Tea Party for the FHU Associates (a group of lovely ladies who raise money for scholarships.) She had a lot to do and I offered to help.I had never been to a real tea party before. I mean, I couldn't cook very well, I'm not great at being all classy...but I figured I could carry a box, wash dishes, SOMETHING unclassy and mediocre.
So Kristen gave me the task of helping cook and greeting guests at the door. Both of which I laughed incredulously at. Did she know me? After 2 years of friendship she really wants me to make delightful cucumber sandwiches and SOCIALIZE?! She really put too much faith in me.
But I succeeded. I was charming. Read about it here. And despite the fact that we had a tea party amongst a flood, tornadoes, no electricity, and a venue change...we had a great time.
This year comes along and I asked Kristen if I could help again. She agreed (and again, I hope she knows what she's doing.) But it strikes me as odd that I, queen of all things redneck and unclassy, would WANT to be involved in a Victorian Tea Party. Why is this so exciting to me?
The answer is: the tea party has something for everyone. It brings families together for a fun afternoon. It raises money for students who might otherwise not be able to attend a private Christian college. There's great food, and who doesn't like great food? There's something for everyone. And you should attend.
Enter Kristen Hicks (who was a Hester at the time.) I had only met her a week before but we were going to spend the next 2 weeks sleeping in the same room. She excitedly jumped on the fact that I was going to try Scottish tea for the first time and she offered to make me a cup "with the fixings." I could not for the life of me understand why this was so exciting for her. (That was before I knew her well, of course.)
It was at that moment that I fell in love with all things tea. It was delicious and I just had to have more. I spent the next year with my Tetley and my herbal-fruit blends. I was a certified tea-drinker.
Fast forward to May 2010. Kristen was involved in a Victorian Tea Party for the FHU Associates (a group of lovely ladies who raise money for scholarships.) She had a lot to do and I offered to help.I had never been to a real tea party before. I mean, I couldn't cook very well, I'm not great at being all classy...but I figured I could carry a box, wash dishes, SOMETHING unclassy and mediocre.
So Kristen gave me the task of helping cook and greeting guests at the door. Both of which I laughed incredulously at. Did she know me? After 2 years of friendship she really wants me to make delightful cucumber sandwiches and SOCIALIZE?! She really put too much faith in me.
But I succeeded. I was charming. Read about it here. And despite the fact that we had a tea party amongst a flood, tornadoes, no electricity, and a venue change...we had a great time.
This year comes along and I asked Kristen if I could help again. She agreed (and again, I hope she knows what she's doing.) But it strikes me as odd that I, queen of all things redneck and unclassy, would WANT to be involved in a Victorian Tea Party. Why is this so exciting to me?
The answer is: the tea party has something for everyone. It brings families together for a fun afternoon. It raises money for students who might otherwise not be able to attend a private Christian college. There's great food, and who doesn't like great food? There's something for everyone. And you should attend.
Top Ten: Things I Should Carry in my Purse, but don't.
1. Headphones. Sometimes I get caught in a long line, waiting room, or quiet coffeeshop with the urge to listen to a song or video. Instead of breaking social protocol and blaring it for everyone to hear, I sheepishly put my phone away for later. But really, I just don't want those around me to laugh at me for watching another video of a cute kitten.
2. Tissues: Haven't you ever had that sudden snot drip, booger attack, or hormonal crying spell? Well I have. And then I have to use half-ply toilet paper or my sleeve...neither of which is really sanitary.
3. A book. Instead of rifling through millions of lame youtube videos on my "computer-phone" I could be doing something intellectual. And I could get back into the habit of reading.
4. Hair accouterments: For that windy day that leaves me looking like a bewildered bird's nest...or a hairpin for my alfalfa twig.
5. Band-aids: I'm a bit of a klutz sometimes....as are strangers around me who ask for band-aids.
6. Food: So. I have the WEIRDEST eating habits. Let me just tell you. When I'm hungry, I eat...but mostly it's just a couple crackers or a peach. I mean, I eat meals...of like mixed veggies or beef stew or something...but usually, I just snack a lot. Healthily. I mean, I don't just gorge. The point is, when I'm hungry and in my car in rush hour traffic on the way home from work...I tend to make fast food stops. Which is not good for my bank account or my hips. So keeping mini cereal boxes in my purse is good. And soda. Just to wash it down.
7. A notebook: I've been pretty consistent at carrying paper in my purse since I started carrying one. And then I got this iPhone (which I hate using for everything, and hate typing on...) so I need to reinstate the mini-notebook for errand lists, grocery lists, and sudden sparks of inspiration.
8. My camera: Imagine the most beautiful sunset you have ever seen. Or a 5 armed man with 7 pet cats on the side of the road. Or a unicorn. I've seen the most amazing things whilst toting my purse around. I rush to get my (you guessed it) iPhone to snap a picture and realize that it's too dark, moving too fast, or the app won't load fast enough. *sigh* My high-quality camera could have done better.
9. Things that appease small children: Unprepared parents are my least favorite things. If you take a child to a doctor's office and YOU KNOW you're gonna sit in the waiting room for 2 hours...you need to bring toys. Books. Colors. SOMETHING. But if you don't, the kid will whine ("I'm booored.")...and the mom will get frustrated ("Be quiet and still!"). And people will judge you. (Namely me.) It's at these times that I wish I had a coloring book, or a hot wheels car in my purse to give said child. Bless their hearts.
10. Headache medicine: because after all of these things happen to me on an afternoon errand run...I'm going to have a headache.
2. Tissues: Haven't you ever had that sudden snot drip, booger attack, or hormonal crying spell? Well I have. And then I have to use half-ply toilet paper or my sleeve...neither of which is really sanitary.
3. A book. Instead of rifling through millions of lame youtube videos on my "computer-phone" I could be doing something intellectual. And I could get back into the habit of reading.
4. Hair accouterments: For that windy day that leaves me looking like a bewildered bird's nest...or a hairpin for my alfalfa twig.
5. Band-aids: I'm a bit of a klutz sometimes....as are strangers around me who ask for band-aids.
6. Food: So. I have the WEIRDEST eating habits. Let me just tell you. When I'm hungry, I eat...but mostly it's just a couple crackers or a peach. I mean, I eat meals...of like mixed veggies or beef stew or something...but usually, I just snack a lot. Healthily. I mean, I don't just gorge. The point is, when I'm hungry and in my car in rush hour traffic on the way home from work...I tend to make fast food stops. Which is not good for my bank account or my hips. So keeping mini cereal boxes in my purse is good. And soda. Just to wash it down.
7. A notebook: I've been pretty consistent at carrying paper in my purse since I started carrying one. And then I got this iPhone (which I hate using for everything, and hate typing on...) so I need to reinstate the mini-notebook for errand lists, grocery lists, and sudden sparks of inspiration.
8. My camera: Imagine the most beautiful sunset you have ever seen. Or a 5 armed man with 7 pet cats on the side of the road. Or a unicorn. I've seen the most amazing things whilst toting my purse around. I rush to get my (you guessed it) iPhone to snap a picture and realize that it's too dark, moving too fast, or the app won't load fast enough. *sigh* My high-quality camera could have done better.
9. Things that appease small children: Unprepared parents are my least favorite things. If you take a child to a doctor's office and YOU KNOW you're gonna sit in the waiting room for 2 hours...you need to bring toys. Books. Colors. SOMETHING. But if you don't, the kid will whine ("I'm booored.")...and the mom will get frustrated ("Be quiet and still!"). And people will judge you. (Namely me.) It's at these times that I wish I had a coloring book, or a hot wheels car in my purse to give said child. Bless their hearts.
10. Headache medicine: because after all of these things happen to me on an afternoon errand run...I'm going to have a headache.
Jen the Builder!
Have I ever told you that I'm cheap? Cuz I am.
So when I heard that Target had these 5 shelf bookcases on sale I HAD to have one. A goodly amount of my extensive book collection is currently boxed up or thrown meaninglessly onto a media case. Not a bookshelf.
I managed to manhandle this huge box into my cart. I manhandled it into my car (while several very worried parking lot dwellers observed.) I manhandled it into my house, onto the middle of the floor, and realized, "I'm going to have to assemble this." Great.
Well. I gathered my tool kit...and my courage. I tore open the box (after pushing the cat off.) And behold. A mess.
At least there were instructions, which read something like, "Take board A, attach swivelly tan metal piece Z into the eternal vortex of doom in the top." *SIGH* Part of me gave up and thought, "Tomorrow I will call a capable man to do this for me. I will bake him cookies, and offer him a soda, and watch him assemble my bookcase. We will have polite and entertaining conversations and I will be forever indebted to him for this act of service. Amen."
Then I heard my mother's voice. "Man-up and do it yourself." I figured I could at least try. And when I failed, I would have a nice dramatic sob story to tell the unfortunate fellow whom the task fell upon. Yes, I will be a damsel in distress. But not until after I tried.
So I did. And Spooky helped.
And an hour later.......after many many screws were twisted....nails were hammered.....pegs were stuck.....and bookcase was lifted...........TADA!
I DID IT! I made a bookshelf. Now, I did make one mistake. But since you cannot tell, I will not divulge. If you ever come over though, you will see.
So I went to bed content in my construction ability. And as I closed my eyes, I heard the distinct crash of my cat jumping onto the new toy and shattering a lamp in the process.
Ok, so not everything can be perfect. But I can now be called Jen the Builder.
So when I heard that Target had these 5 shelf bookcases on sale I HAD to have one. A goodly amount of my extensive book collection is currently boxed up or thrown meaninglessly onto a media case. Not a bookshelf.
I managed to manhandle this huge box into my cart. I manhandled it into my car (while several very worried parking lot dwellers observed.) I manhandled it into my house, onto the middle of the floor, and realized, "I'm going to have to assemble this." Great.
Well. I gathered my tool kit...and my courage. I tore open the box (after pushing the cat off.) And behold. A mess.At least there were instructions, which read something like, "Take board A, attach swivelly tan metal piece Z into the eternal vortex of doom in the top." *SIGH* Part of me gave up and thought, "Tomorrow I will call a capable man to do this for me. I will bake him cookies, and offer him a soda, and watch him assemble my bookcase. We will have polite and entertaining conversations and I will be forever indebted to him for this act of service. Amen."Then I heard my mother's voice. "Man-up and do it yourself." I figured I could at least try. And when I failed, I would have a nice dramatic sob story to tell the unfortunate fellow whom the task fell upon. Yes, I will be a damsel in distress. But not until after I tried.
So I did. And Spooky helped.
And an hour later.......after many many screws were twisted....nails were hammered.....pegs were stuck.....and bookcase was lifted...........TADA!
I DID IT! I made a bookshelf. Now, I did make one mistake. But since you cannot tell, I will not divulge. If you ever come over though, you will see.So I went to bed content in my construction ability. And as I closed my eyes, I heard the distinct crash of my cat jumping onto the new toy and shattering a lamp in the process.
Ok, so not everything can be perfect. But I can now be called Jen the Builder.
Top 10: Things You Need to Know About Me
1. I am a Christian. I simply cannot get through a single day, hour, minute, or second without God. It's in my DNA. I have a hard time carrying on a conversation without mentioning something related to Him or His Word.
2. I am NOT a girly girl, but I seem to be surrounded by them. Most of my friends enjoy all things pink and pretty...and while that is great and necessary, I just don't get it. I like things that are logical and functional. Practical. I've been known to wrap gifts in Wal-Mart bags. When wearing high heels, my gait is similar to that of a 2-legged gazelle with a lisp. I enjoy sports, cars, and lifting heavy boxes.
3. I love kids. My Bachelors degree is in Child and Family Studies. My current job is a nanny to a beautiful baby girl. I have a huge family with lots of little cousins who I adore. I'm certain that I can carry on a better conversation with a child than an adult on any given day. I think it's one of the talents that God gave me. Here are some of my sweet cousins.4. I don't know what I want to do with life. This is a bit of a recent development. I think I want to go to graduate school and get my Masters in Counseling. I want to help people. I've figured that out. But I've also considered being a missionary, secretary, nanny, or flight attendant, or working in a TV station. Basically, I want to do something that makes me happy and close to God. I realized that I DON'T like doing the same thing everyday. I want somewhat of a flexible, differing schedule. Stay tuned as I figure that out.5. I'm a nerd. I like sci-fi and British shows. I like learning and reading. I enjoy working on computers. I enjoy being in class and taking notes. And The Big Bang Theory.
6. I like the arts. Theater: RENT, Phantom, Beauty and the Beast, Wicked, and plays in general. There are so many that I want to see but haven't had the chance. Art: Degas, Seurat, Monet, Warhol. Music, especially classical and choral. Photography. Dance. Poetry ESPECIALLY. Basically, any sort of expressed emotion. It's nice.
7. I can have a few obsessive tendencies, especially with organization. Things must be where they are supposed to be. Granted, sometimes I get busy and my house gets a little messy, but it drives me insane. I also have a weird obsession with change (or avoiding change). And I'm honest...blunt...*ahem* candid a lot. Sometimes I speak before I think. I suffer from word vomit. What can I say? We all have our issues. I'm working on it.
8. I love animals. I used to be terrified of dogs, but that mysteriously went away. I have a cat. He's feral. He attacks things and does not like to be petted. I also have the smartest dog on the planet. She's a little bit of a brat but I love her and can't bear to think of her passing. I've also owned hermit crabs. Someday I want to have a pet tarantula.
9. I have an affinity for the mind. Reading people. Instincts. Dreams. Environments. Emotions. Social protocol. I LOVE psychology. I love to figure out why people are the way they are. A lot of times I would rather observe people than converse with them.
10. I also love buttercups, strawberries, reading, tea, Scotland, The Office, ballet (I took dance for 10 years), singing, traveling, being with friends, laughing, the color gray.
In a nut shell, I'm eclectic. But then again, isn't everyone?
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