Firmly Fixed on the Father

I'm Still Alive!... and Am Back to Blogging!!

2012-01-14T14:36:00.000-08:00

WOW! It's been so long I hardly know what to say!
I'm afraid that old myth started coming true,
when Facebook began to get big,
the blogging world began to get smaller.

I confess I have not set aside the time to blog,
and yet so many amazing things have happened this year!
As of now, I am picking up the pieces and attempting
to start keeping up with my blog again!

I am still studying Music at West Coast Baptist College.
After many challenging and different circumstances,
choices, and events, I have seen the LORD work amazing
things, provide miraculously, and guide my life like I never imagined!
I am still planning to serve Him in full-time ministry on the mission field.

Yes, college life is busy, but I am determined to not let that
effect my ability to make the time to blog.
Even if it's just a quick devotional, update, or news,
I'm hoping to atleast keep up with it weekly. =)
(don't totally hold me to that, though..... lol)

Stepping Out By Faith... Through God

2011-01-31T16:24:00.000-08:00

So God brought me through one semester of Bible college...
and He has led me to another one.

This morning, I read in Matthew 6...
"And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field,
how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you,
That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these."

I wondered what it could have meant that Solomon,
a man so rich & powerful, wasn't to be compared to a lily!?
Throughout the day of pondering, the Lord finally opened my eyes.

Solomon had it all.
He never had to worry about food, finances, and friends...
He never needed to rely on God to provide everything for Him.
His life was comfortable, secure, and enjoyable.

A small lily of the field is so helpless, unable to do anything.
It's only source of life and existence is from God.
It relies totally on Him for the sunshine, rain, and growth.
...How does this relate to me, as a Christian?...

I have to say, it's pretty scary, since I had no money to put on my first payment,
my job only covers 1/2 my bill, and my classes have a lot of intense projects.

But looking back, when I was so worried about His provision,
I see how He actually got me through.
So many times I doubted Him, wondered if He even heard my prayers or cared,
and even considered giving up and choosing an easier path of a secular career.

But after tears, prayers, and continually handing it over to the Lord
(I say "continually", since I was always taking it back into my own hands),
He finally showed Himself and provided the exact amount of money I needed.
It was such a mircale, and it taught me so many lessons of faith.

Even now, looking back and seeing His provision, I'm ashamed
to say that I still have a hard time trusting Him to provide for me.
I've always been the type of person to plan out everything,
be sure to see my future clearly ahead of me,
and make desicions based on logical analyzing.

The Christian walk isn't all logic-following.
(Our brains aren't to be compared to God's way of thinking, anyway!)
If I can see the steps right in front of me, where does faith come in?

God brings us to places where we are helpless, cannot see the next step,
and are empty-handed. Why? Why does He do this to His children?

Because it's when we finally let go of providing and planning for oursleves,
that we become as dependent children of a loving Father.
We have an opportunity to grow closer to Him,
and to watch how He will provide.

Isn't that amazing? That God cares to provide for me?
If I always did things for myself, I would miss out on seeing God's miracles.

He used that time last semester, and even now as I'm still scared,
to teach me to let go of my pride, and fully lean on Him.
He wants to use this time to nurture my relationship with Him!

God doesn't tell us to do something, then make it impossible to do!
He wants to do that 'impossible' through us.
Not ME through Him, but rahter HIM through me.

Then I realized... what an amazing privilage!
Why in the WORLD does God want to use someone as sinful as me?!
Yet, He does. And He WILL make a way!

I encourage you, Christian friend, DONT give up on God!
Don't be afraid to take that step of faith!
Yes, it's scary, confusing, and even hard.
Satan is going to throw things at you to discourage you.

But just remember in this upcoming year:
When God is calling you to do something, He WILL provide!

"Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."
Matthew 6:30-33

Completely

2011-01-21T09:43:00.000-08:00

This song is one of my favorites!

I was listening to it last night and the words were just such a blessing to me!

The secret of life is letting go

The secret of love is letting it show

In all that I do, In all that I say

Right here in this moment

The power of prayer is in a humble cry

The power of change is in giving my life

And laying it down, Down at Your feet

Right here in this moment

Take my heart, Take my soul

I surrender everything to Your control

And let all that is within me

Lift up to You and say,

"I am Yours, and Yours alone completly"

This journey of life is a search for truth

This journey of faith is following You

Every step of the way, Through the joy & the pain

Right here in this moment

Take my heart, Take my soul

I surrender everything to Your control

And let all that is within me

Lift up to You and say,

"I am Yours, and Yours alone completly"

Right here, right now

And for the rest of my life

He Didn't Throw The Clay Away

2011-01-17T15:05:00.000-08:00

Empty and broken, I came back to Him.

A vessel unworthy; so scarred with sin.

But He did not despair-

He started over again,

And I bless the day He didn't throw the clay away.

(Chorus)

Over and over He molds me and makes me.

Into His likeness, He fashions the clay.

A vessel of honor I am today-

All because Jesus didn't throw the clay away.

He is the Potter and I'm just the clay,

But molded in His image, He wants me to stay.

When I stumble and I fall, my vessel breaks-

He just picks up the pieces,

He doesn't throw the clay away.

Over and over He molds me and makes me.

Into His likeness, He fashions the clay.

A vessel of honor I am today-

All because Jesus didn't throw the clay away.

So many times I fail and so many times He picks me up again. He never gives up on us.

Sometimes it seems all our strength is gone and all hope of holiness is vanished:

But Jesus is standing there, ready to give us the victory if we ask Him!

Oh, the Lord is SO good! He is so merciful, loving, longsuffering...

I just can't comprehend why He is so good to me!

"Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory. For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God." Ephesians 3:13-19

Winter Break On Campus!

2011-01-14T16:24:00.000-08:00

Due to several things, it happened so that I stayed on campus over most of the winter break. (about a 5 week break!) I learned soon that this was the time that so many fun memories would be made! I've met people I never knew were on campus, and became better friends with those I already knew. The chef, I believe, has been spoiling us with exceptionally good meals! (t-bone steak, homemade pizza, etc...!)
There were some interesting times, tiring times, and just plain wacky times!
(We have many insane videos with proof! lol)

So many things happened, can you believe this... I haven't been taking many picture!
LOL. So I'll just share a few pics and narrate:

One great memory was that Bro.Ferrso asked me one day to be in charge of a group of callers for him! I was honored to be asked and had a wonderful time!

Here I am in my cubicle!...

My friend Stefany and I were definatly having a fun time!...

Upon not knowing if I was able to go home for Christmas (which, I was able to!!), I was sad of the possibility of missing out on all the great holiday decorations, so I went to the store and bought my own little Christmas tree and decorated it for my room and named him "Happy Joy" *Ü*...

Another fun time was when I was in the GA on my laptop, a family playing Uno Attack asked me to join in! It was such a fun time as two more of my friends came along and we got to know this great family!

After going through a whole semester of longing to play basketball, one evening, we finally had our chance to get out on the court!!

One morning, upon talking to my Gramma in the gazebo, my friend came along and we decided to go... on the playground! (Ü)... it was a fun time of swinging, chatting, and feeling like kids again! Getting up on the fun little bridges are one of my favorite parts!...

Finally, yet, I'd say, the best memory yet, was the day it snowed!! Yes! It SNOWED in desert California! As I was relaxing in my dorm one afternoon, girls started running up the stairs screaming, "IT'S SNOWING!!" I looked outside, and sure enough, little light and fluffy flurries were starting to sprinkle down upon us! We ran outside so excited!...

It was so lovely walking to church during light flurries. However, upon walking out from church, the grounds were just covered! It snowed a lot more and was about 3-4 in.!

So after supper, we had the biggest snowball fight you'd ever see! After the fight, some of us went to the gazebo for a time of relaxing and hot cocoa! It was so much fun and a great blessing from the Lord!

It was definatly an awesome winter break! Very relaxing, yet crazy!

God has also been speaking to me alot during break. He's been teaching me many lessons, some of them very painful, but worth the better relationship with Him.
He has been good and has proven Himself over and over again.
He has been so good to keep me going even when I felt like giving up.
Just remember...

"Don't doubt in the night

What God gave you in the light"

---Dr.Chappell

That Ye May Know...

2011-01-06T09:59:00.000-08:00

Time to time, I've struggled with assurance.
I've been sometimes worried that I doubted my salvation,
because I thought if I really was saved, I would know it!
I thought that I was the only one, but over the past few months,
I've realized how other dear Christian friends
I have struggle with the same thing!
I've been praying about it for quite some time,
and thought I'd share what the Lord has revealed to me,
in case any anyone else has struggled as well.

I remember when I was 5 years old,
I understood I was a sinner, that Christ died for me,
and I didn't want to go to hell.
I knelt by my bed and prayed and asked Jesus to
forgive me and come into my heart and save me.
When I was about 9, I felt I may not have
really been saved and that I was basing my assurance
on a 'profession' I had made.
So I told the Lord I was sorry for my sins
and that I wanted Him to forgive me,
come into my heart and save me.

Age 12 I struggled.
Age 14 I stuggled.
I have to say, though, that I've struggled the most in 2008.
In March I said a prayer to 'make sure'.
In June I said another one to 'make sure'.
But after a while, I'd start doubting again.
Sometimes I just didn't feel saved.
Finally, on October 16 2008, I told the Lord about it.
Somehow, I figured He didn't know or care I felt no assurance.
I knelt beside my bed and cried out to Him.
I told Him I was doubting and that I was tired of it!
I was so scared...
did I repent enough? did I say the right thing?
did I have enough faith? did I base it all on a prayer?

But then He stopped me and reminded me...
It's not if what I did was good enough,
It's about what Christ did.
He reminded me that His blood was enough.

Romans 10:13 came to me...
"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."
All I need is enough faith to just ask Him
and to know I'm a sinner and am sorry.
He reminded me of the time I did that.
When I really called to Him.
I was saved... am saved!
My assurance comes from trusting Him to keep His promise!

I thought I'd share some verses He used to speak to me...

"All that the Father giveth me shall come to me;
and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out."
John 6:37

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son,
that whosoever believeth in him should not perish,
but have everlasting life."
John 3:16

"If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if [he ask] a fish,
will he for a fish give him a serpent? Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion?
If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children:how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?"
Luke 11:11-13

I knew I was saved... I just needed to trust Him
that He really did hear me and save me and keeps His promises.

It's not God's will for us to be doubting our salvation.
The devil tries to get us to doubt.
Since he cannot have our souls,
he wants to keep us from doing as much for God as he can.
If we spend so much time wondering if we're saved,
we become discouraged and not as useful for Him...
we can forget about all those souls we need to tell, too.
That is our job as a Christian,
and satan tries to keep us too busy with ourselves.
Also, doubting is a sure sign of backsliding.
And when I heard that in a message,
I looked back and realized it was so in my life.
Anytime I wasn't in God's Word,
or did something I knew the Holy Spirit 'pricked' me about,
I would sure enough start doubting.
And after a while, the Holy Spirit will stop 'pricking'.
God will always be there to come back to,
but if we're going to ignore Him, He'll sit back.
Then I really started doubting, since I felt so numb
to the things of the Lord.
But when we're completely right with God,
completely trusting in Him and His Word,
we're not going to doubt!

Praise the Lord that He never gives up.
His mercy and grace never end!
We fall aside so many times,
and when we come back, He's always forgives us!
This wonderful God sent His son to die for our sins.
All we have to do is believe and accept His gift.
If you have done that but are doubting,
I encourage you to tell the Lord about it.
He knows and cares that you are, and He will help you.

"These things have I written unto you that
believe on the name of the Son of God;
that ye may know that ye have eternal life,
and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God."
1 John 5:13

Valencia Trip... Mall & Iceskating!!

2011-01-05T16:44:00.000-08:00

During the last few weeks of the semester, we had a college trip to donwtown Valencia, where we shopped at the mall for 3 hours, then headed over to an ice skating rink! It was SO much fun!!!
Here's some random pics from the mall...

Along the way, there were many nice things that caught my eye.

But of course, I was trying hard not to be...

One of our favorite stops was the Disney Store!

"Ducky" and his favorite cowboy shirt

Me and my Lady

After the mall, we all piled into the bus and headed over to the ice rink.

I was so excited to go ice skating for the first time ever!!

I soon caught on and was off on my own at a fast pace!!

I didn't even fall once!

That trip was definatly one of the highlights of this semester's activities!! Ice skating was so much fun... and a lot colder than I thought! LOL

My First Semester At College...

2011-01-05T16:18:00.000-08:00

The end of fall semester was so busy and full!
(hence, the lack of posting... sorry!)
God has been so good in working my life personally, and so many people's around me. There have been wonderful chapel messages, heart-to-heart talks with friends, and great memories. Toward the end of the semester, there were plenty of fun activities!
Included were:
Thanksgiving Break Trip with Ashley
Charlie Brown Christmas Play (by LBS highschool)
Winter Orchestra Concert
Music Majors to the Wall's House (chairman of music)
Valencia Mall / Iceskating Trip
Christmas Banquet

But among many of the special activities,
we were always sure to find time to just "hang out"...

Music Major Fellowship...

Me and Mrs.Wall at their house...

Ashley and I at the GA, waiting for coffee!

Me and my Grammar teacher, Mrs.Dunwoody

Me at the GA with the 'First Lady', Mrs.Chappell

My first semester at college was definatly full of wonderful memories that I will carry with me the rest of my life! I'll be posting about different events individually/in groups within the next few days.
Lots of pictures coming up!! Be prepared!! LOL

Putting Old Things Behind and Reaching Ahead...

2011-01-01T13:34:00.000-08:00

January 1, 2011~
The very first time I type the new year! How exciting! A brand new year... who knows what will be in store? As I look back over this previous year, I see how many different lessons I've learned. There were times of happiness, tears, laughter, meditation, and inspiration. I've learned lessons in submission, humility, patience, trust, and most of all, faith.

I'd have to say, overall, it's been a faith-testing year.
By faith, I prayed my family to California.
By faith, I left the place I knew so well in NC.
By faith, I stepped out on my own for the first time.
By faith, I sat back and watched God work so many miracles,
saw Him prove Himself, and stood in awe as He preformed
the impossible over again.
I've grown closer to Him and He's become more real to me.

So much has happened. A year ago, I never would have thought I would be here. So what will I be doing a year away? What things will happen? Only God knows and I sure am glad He is in control!
May this year of 2011 be a full one, used for Christ, my Beloved. I'm very excited to see what this new year brings. My God be glorified in everythings. Who knows, maybe He will come back this year. May it be a year of growth for all of us; in spirit, maturity, and academically.

Well, it's time to push aside old things and
reach for all the new memories to be made.

Stand Amazed

2010-12-27T16:33:00.000-08:00

What does it take to amaze you?
Is it a person’s incredible intellect and mental capacity?
To solve deep mysteries and discover new technologies?
Creativity and skill? Accomplishments?
Watching a beautiful sunset over snow-capped mountains?
I find it interesting that not everyone’s amazement
level is peaked by the same things.

A new do-dad of technological advancement may be just
what every teenager ‘needs’, but to others it’s just a
new toy on the shelf, soon to be outshone again.
Two people watching the sunrise may appreciate it,
but one soon wishes to do something else while
the other still can’t get enough of the view.
To one, a new tune of music may just be another song
added to the bunch of them. But to a musician,
it may be their very breath and emotion,
as they can only sit back and soak in each and every note.

What’s the difference?
It was the same song, the same sunrise, the same technology.
Why did it amaze only some?

Some people actually stop to think about what’s important to them.
Some people actually stand back and look at what is really there.
Some people are too caught up in real life,
things of this world, and the things of tomorrow.
They’re so busy reaching for things they long to have,
that they miss enjoying the things that are right in front of them.
How many times is that the sad condition of God’s children!

Are we caught up in all the blessings the Lord is giving us,
that we forget to cherish the Giver?
Am I too worried about the situations rising up against me
that I forget to trust in the One Who promises to lead me through it?
Do I look to the future, think of what I want to do
and not even consider the plan of the One Who made me for a purpose?
Many times we even long for love and a romantic relationship,
and ditch the perfect, holy, unconditional, & eternal Love right there.

If I were to tell you that Jesus left heavenly riches
to come to earth, suffer as a human being, die in your place
so that you could live in heaven… would you be amazed by that?
Well, duh! I’m saved, of course I’m amazed.
Are you still? Were you really?
Just reading about that should bring tears to one’s eyes.
I’m convicted myself, since I should have made so many
mistakes typing that statement from trembling hands,
blurred eyes from weeping, and overwhelming conviction
that it should have brought to me.

How was it when you got saved?
Did you feel like falling on your face and worshipping God?
Did it move you enough to surrender every desire,
every dream, every decision to His perfect plan?
That’s what should come when we actually look at salvation.
But you know what?
That’s not the end of my amazing God!
Something so amazing, I can’t even comprehend this:

Not only did He make a way of salvation for me,
He made it with no cost from me.
He paid everything. He doesn’t require anything.
But He does have a perfect plan for you since before birth.
This plan, instead of containing all the pain and suffering we deserve,
He planned it to be full of joy, peace, and love!
He has a wonderful life in store for us!
A personal relationship with Him!
A reason and purpose to live!
But, He loves me so much,
that He’s not going to force me to have this great gift.
I have a choice.
Even if I choose not to accept His plan for me,
He still leaves the opportunity there and continues to call me.
He never gives up on me!
If I start to stray, He loves me enough to chastise me,
accept the anger from me, and still lovingly woo me to Him again.
WHAT IN THE WORLD?!
What have I done to deserve such grace?
NOTHING!
I’ve done everything possible and so much more NOT to deserve it!
Yet He still not only offers it, He BEGS me to accept it!
Now isn’t that AMAZING?!

I often have to stop and ask myself,
“What do I get amazed by?
What is important to me?
What am I living for?”

It’s fun to dream about things.
It’s easy to worry about things.
But we all have to make a decision.
Am I going to spend my life worrying about real life
and dreaming of a life that might never be?
Or will I take the Lord’s hand as He guides me into my future,
trust Him to work out the current situations,
and stand still in amazement of my Beloved Creator?

I encourage you, especially as this new year is coming around,
stand still and be amazed at your God. Don’t forget Him.
Don’t get caught up in material goals or plans for this year.
Seek first His Kingdom and His fellowship,
then stand amazed at Who He is and What He does.

"Stand ye still and see the salvation of the LORD...
Fear not nor be dismayed... for the LORD will be with you."
2 Chronicles 20:17

AllAlong

2010-12-23T17:29:00.000-08:00

This has come to be my life song.

Every word clearly tells my story and gives God

the glory for always being there for me.

I hope you enjoy the music video I made for it...

All Along:

Time just drifts away and as I look back through the years;

Memories of happiness and bitter tears.

Through it all, there was a common threat that cannot be ignored;

You were there teaching me to be Your servant, Lord.

All along, Your hand has been guiding me;

Shaping my life to be a beautiful song.

All along, You've led me through

The things that You do,

Would make me strong.

Your love has been there all along.

Every joy and pain had a reason of it's own

Now I realize that I was not alone.

The changing seasons of my life were not left up to chance;

Lord, I know You were working to fulfil Your plan.

All along, Your hand has been guiding me;

Shaping my life to be a beautiful song.

All along, You've led me through

The things that You do,

Would make me strong.

Your love has been there all along.

Tomorrow when I turn around, and I look back at today.

I will understand Your purpose, and my thankful heart will say:

All along, Your hand has been guiding me;

Shaping my life to be a beautiful song.

All along, You've led me through

The things that You do,

Would make me strong.

Your love has been there all along.

Dear Mom... Missions Conference Week

2010-11-03T15:53:00.000-07:00

Monday

Today began our annual missions conference at church.

We support over 200 missionaries and just took on 20 more!

Classes during the conference are only 25 minutes long!

Here's some random pics...

A typical day at lunch in the dining hall!

Me & Brett

(we found out that our moms have known eachother online

for a while! I also am friends with his Mom on FB! LOL)

Me & Bryan

(some think we look like bro. & sis. lol)

At my dorm, we had a movie night watching "Parent Trap"

or "Beauty and the Beast"... but I was sleepy & went to bed.

Here's me and my "dorm soup", Dana:

(what we call the dorm supervisors)

Tuesday

Today was a WONDERFUL day at Missions Conference!

In the morning chapel service, Dr. Don Sisk spoke

on surrendering our lives to the Lord and living by faith.

I went forward and completely surrendered every area

of my life to the LORD and commited myself to Missions giving.

This evening the choir sang "Faces", which nearly makes

me cry every time I sing it! Today was a great day!!

Wendesday

After classes and such, I went to a session about

"How To Win Moslems To Christ"... VERY good!

My friend and I talked about it afterwards and

we both just felt like going soulwinning!

I also got to hear of several friends surrendering to

foreign mission fields, and to the Moslem people.

Here's a random picture of my friend, Lea, and I:

Thursday

Today classes were back to normal 1 hour times.

O well, had a great time anyway!

Today was the last Home game for our Eagles

volleyball team, and we ever so sadly lost. :-(

I also went to football intramurals with a friend

and we were studying during the first 3 games.

(I had to memorize all 48 prepositions for a

Grammar quiz the next day! AHHH!)

I was freezing cold and had to go to bed at 11:30,

but intramurals lasted until about 2am!!!

Friday

Today was FULL of fun!! I got a 100 on Grammar quiz!

We also arranged a 'surprise' birthday celebration

for my friend Adam at the Great Awakening Cafe...

left2right - Franklin, Johnathon, Me, Steve

left2right - Nicholas, Adam (his b-day!), & Johnathon

Cameron & Brett goofing off!

Me and Abby :-)

Saturday was our anuual Harvest Festival at church,

and I was working with the soccer game.

Afterward I enjoyed cotton candy, hanging with friends,

and going to bed early and sleeping in late!! Yahoo!

Dear Mom : Lately Around Campus...

2010-10-22T20:20:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't posted my regular posts lately.

The past two weeks have been extremely busy!

Last week was the hectic week of midterms,

which I got A's on all but one... B in Computer.

Here's Abby and I before taking OT midterm...

On Thursday, before the last day of midterms, a friend cut

my hair and 3 of us took off to chaperone a girl at work.

So we hung out at Panera Bread for 7 hours.

We also took off shopping, eating at Chili's,

and getting a yummy treat at Coldstone!

It was a nice relaxing evening of just girls,

studying, (and going on Facebook again!!)

After the long and studious week, we got a group

together on Saturday to relax and hang out at the Oasis...

left2right - Ashley, Renee, Cameron, Reuben, Me

We played Catch Phrase and Guesstures,

enjoyed ice cream and soda, and enjoyed kicking back

and just goofing off (without worrying about tests!!)...

Then I played Ashley and Gabriel to a game of carpetball...

Earlier this week, we had a wonderful day of

scattered thunderstorms and pouring rain!!!

It was such a blessing to hear thunder, see clouds,

feel and smell rain, and see a gorgeous rainbow...

This was so big, it literally arched all the way

over campus and you could see both ends of it!!

(But I couldn't snap the whole thing.)

Yesterday, Ashley and I were challenged to learn
how to tie a tie... the reward... $1!! (bought a candy bar!)
Needless to say, after much trial and error,
I finally got down a half windsor! *Ü*

After supper, a few of us hung out at the cafe
studying and chatting around.
Abby and Steve looked at Bill Rice Ranch flyers and
I was helping Markus write his Theology project...

left2right - Markus, Me, Steve, Abby

Tomorrow after soulwinning, I'll be headed to my
English Teacher's party at her house!! Yeah!
Then I get back and babysit for a sunday school activity.
Next week's classes are only 25 minutes each! Fun!

Sunday starts our annual Missions Conference,

and I am really excited and can't wait!! *Ü*Ü*Ü*Ü*

Dear Mom...

2010-10-09T21:23:00.000-07:00

Sorry, I had a REALLY busy week that I forgot most of what I did.
I also didn't take ANY pictures, so this one is just short and sweet.

Monday, October 4
Today was a dreaded English test.
The teacher let us out early and she baked us yummy cookies!
I also got to talk to my sister on the phone as it was her birthday.
I spent the day studying, going to work, and hanging out. Ü

Tuesday, October 5
Normal classes. Speech, Computer, & Intro to College.
Had a quiz in MicroComputer class and think I failed it. Bleh.
Prepared for mid-terms. My mind honestly draws a blank for the rest.

Wednesday, October 6
Today classes were cut so we could go out door-knocking
for our Open House Sunday at church on the 10th.
My friends and I hit 66 doors! PTL.
The rest of the day was spent relaxing, piano-ing, studying,
and keeping in touch with friends and relatives.
Thursday, October 7
We were told the date of our Bible Memory speech... next week.
So I picked a passage after having a great "preaching" conversation
at breakfast with a group of friends... and Mrs. Weaver. :-)
In Computer class we started with Microsoft Publisher... me no likie.

Friday, October 8
We had a fun mid-term prep quiz in OT Survey and finished early!
My friends and I studied in Revels & one treated me to a coffee!
Then I had a Biology quiz and only missed 1 question!
I taught piano, started a new 5 year old student, and went to
the post-office and thrift store to find a nice coat and shirt.
I attempted witnessing to my co-worker but he was very closed.
I am continuing to pray for him and work with him.
I got home and was blessed to be an encouragement to a dear friend.

Saturday, October 9
Today I went soulwinning in with Brother Lester's SS group.
After knocking out 70 doors, we were treated to In & Out Burger!!
I came back to study for mid-terms, play piano, fellowship,
and have a wonderful dinner of BBQ ribs!!

Young Maiden's Daybook - October 4

2010-10-04T16:57:00.000-07:00

Today…
October 4, 2010
Outside my window…
Trees are waving, students are walking around,
the weather is suprisingly beautiful!
I am thinking…
Of the wonderful blessings God gives to His children!
I am thankful…
For my dear sister, Beth, who turned 8 today!
I am wearing...
Black skirt and black/red blouse.
I am reading…
The Holy Bible:Proverbs, John, Leviticus;
"Changed Into His Image" by Jim Berg
"Exploring The Scriptures" by John Phillips
I am creating…
A speech file... 10 narratives, 10 illustrations,
10 poems, and 20 quotes;
a summary of a commentary (how's that work?!).
One of my favorite things…
Chapel messages! How they edify & bless the heart!
For education this week…
Old testament Survey, English, Biology,
Microcomputer skills, Christian Womanhood,
Freshman speech, Collegiate Life, and College choir.
A keeper at home skill I am learning/using...
Managing my time well. Even my free time... whatever that is.
A spiritual lesson I'm learning...
Setting standards and yeilding to the Holy Spirit's convicting,
and standing for it even when I have to stand alone.
A godly character trait I plan to work on…
Abiding In HIM!
Scripture I am memorizing…
"And I will put emnity between thee and the woman,
and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy
head, and thou shalt bruise his heel." Genesis 3:15
(For Old Testament Survey)
I'm praying for…
Financial provision through college;
Him to reveal His perfect will and help me trust in Him;
His strength (physically and spiritually);
My friends seeking for jobs; For many students to teach;
To get this second job at Sears if He wills it.

For the rest of the week…
School, studying, and sleeping;
canvasing for Open House Sunday;
Biology quiz Friday; preparing for mid-terms next week;
teaching Friday and setting up 2 more students;
spend time with my wonderful Savior;
and whatever else the Lord sees fit to send my way.
A picture I'm sharing...
Tiki torch flame!! (from the luau; i plan to add a verse to it)

Have a great week!

To learn how to participate, click HERE.

If you participate, please leave a comment
with a link to your daybook as well.

Dear Mom - Week 6

2010-10-02T15:38:00.000-07:00

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 27

Today was just a normal Monday.

Running around for classes, studying,

and hanging out with friends.

I was really blessed to have someone buy

me a nice big muffin and a coffee!!

Gotta love the coffee shop!

I also enjoyed "squishing" in the couches while

chatting around and studying...

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28

I listened to my classmate's speeches

in Speech class, which some were pretty funny! lol

I vehemently played the piano today and worked on some theory.

I sadly finished off my 2nd bag of Lime chips,

but my roommate and I 'took tea' together as we did our

Grammar homework (that we were struggling with!)...

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29

I actually caught the beautiful sunrise on

my way to breakfast! So pretty!...

After classes, I worked hard on a speech project;
which is a file containing 10 narratives, illustrations,

poems, and 20 quotes. I'm nearly 1/3 done... bleh.

Here we were before evening service... *Ü*

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30
Today was the first day of our Leadership

and Educator's Conference... which was really good!

The college choir had to meet early, so no sleeping in 4 me.

But we sang "Preach The Word", which we really enjoyed!

We were all really excited about seeing clouds today!...

We hoped for some rain, but never got any. :-(
After some studying, I mostly relaxed outside and

I was able to talk to my Aunt Lisa on the phone. Ü

It was such a blessing to me!

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1

Last sessions of Educator's Conference, and we sang

"God's Been Good" for choir... which I LOOOVE!

After lunch, I was off to teach piano at the store.

My co-worker finished my business cards and they're really nice!

I studied for Biology and worked on some Grammar at work.

We enjoyed a thunderstorm and I was SO excited to feel rain!

The sunset was just gorgeous as I sat out and watched it...

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 2

We went soulwinning early this morning, came back

and I enjoyed a yummy muffin from the store! Ü

At 1:00 our dorm had a picnic at the park,

which I just got back from a little while ago.

Here's a pic of me and a friend down the hall...

Looking forward to being in God's House tomorrow!

It's Round-Up Sunday with a Wild West stunt

and a chili-cookoff... can't wait!!! :-)

Young Maiden's Daybook - September 27

2010-09-27T19:22:00.000-07:00

Today…
September 27, 2010
Outside my window…
The sun is setting over the desert :-)
I am thinking…
Of God's love and goodness!
I am thankful…
For wonderful friends here and great faculty.
I am wearing...
Blue "WCBC Eagles" shirt and flowered skirt.
(Go EAGLES!! :-)
I am reading…
The Holy Bible:Proverbs, John, various places;
"Changed Into His Image" by Jim Berg
"Exploring The Scriptures" by John Phillips
I am creating…
Grammar homework... bleh!
a summary of a commentary (how's that work?!).
One of my favorite things…
Hint of Lime tortilla chips! Going through my 2nd bag this week! lol
For education this week…
Old testament Survey, English, Biology,
Microcomputer skills, Christian Womanhood,
Freshman speech, Collegiate Life, and College choir.
A keeper at home skill I am learning/using...
Keeping a good mood and doing all my work even
when I have the flu... :-(
A spiritual lesson I'm learning...
Not to lean on my own understanding and ideas,
but to fully trust in the LORD and He will direct my paths!
A godly character trait I plan to work on…
Abiding In HIM!
Scripture I am memorizing…"And I will put emnity between thee and the woman,
and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy
head, and thou shalt bruise his heel." Genesis 3:15
(For Old Testament Survey)
I'm praying for…
Financial provision through college;
Him to reveal His perfect will and help me trust in Him;
His strength (physically and spiritually);
My friends seeking for jobs; For many students to teach;
To get this second job at Sears if He wills it.

For the rest of the week…
School, studying, and sleeping;
getting over this flu (hopefully!)
practicing choir for Educator's Conference this weekend;
teaching Friday and setting up 2 more students;
spend time with my wonderful Savior;
and whatever else the Lord sees fit to send my way.
A picture I'm sharing...
Beautiful palm tree at dawn between the Oasis and Dining Hall...

Have a great week!

To learn how to participate, click HERE.

If you participate, please leave a comment
with a link to your daybook as well.

Dear Mom - Week 5

2010-09-25T20:17:00.000-07:00

Sorry, the internet is acting dumb, so I
can't add as many pics as I was hoping. :-(

Monday September 20
I was very happy when I received my
Biology quiz back and saw that I scored a 95,
rather than the 88 I thought I got!
I also got a 100 in my Grammar quiz.
Today my roommate and I went to Wal*Mart
and I happily purchased my much-craved drink...

O yes, I did good!! *Ü*

Tuesday September 21
Today I rejoiced to see that I got a 100
on my Microcomputer Skills quiz!
I also set up another piano student for Mondays.
Some random beautiful scenery around campus caught my eye...

Wednesday September 22
Lots of studying and working on my report.
Tonight, I, along with about 100 other students,
went forward to join Lancaster Baptist Church!
But then I returned to my room and found out
my laptop crashed... with my schoolwork still on it.
Good thing I saved most things to my thumb drive!

Thursday September 23
Today I we gave our narratives in Speech.
After chapel, we all toured Dr. Chappell's
office/study. Then he and his wife personally
greeted us and handed Snickers bars!!
I rushed around and made it just in time for my
interview at Sears, which went great, and we plan
to set up a 2nd interview next week!

Friday September 24
Woke up with a sore throat and today was picture day.
I was running all over the place with my
tight school schedule, pictures, and work.
I also picked out a business card design
my co-worker is making for me... he did a GREAT job!
When I got back, the sore throat turned into
a fever, chills, cough, and tummy ache. :-(
Had to go to bed early and skip out on socializing.

Saturday September 25
I woke up with no fever and felt somewhat better!
I was determined to make it through soul-winning
and had a blessed time promoting our Open House month!
Afterwards, my friends and I went to Wal*Mart to get
a few things, and a small fry from McDonald's. yum yum!
I also finished my 4-page report, finished a page for my
speech file, and did lots of Grammar homework.
Looking forward to being in my Lord's House tomorrow!!

Spiritual Kicks...

2010-09-23T18:58:00.000-07:00

(the narrative I delivered this morning in Speech class. It's edited to a reader's format.)

I love guns!
Since I was a young girl, I decided dolls were too girly and
started playing secret spy and cops with pretend guns.
I remember the first gun I shot was just a good old rifle.
I was 10 years old and so proud that I missed 1 out of 50 targets.
I just knew that I was born for guns.

Anyway, on our journey to California from North Carolina,
we stayed a week at my grandparents in Arkansas.
And my Dad had just bought a brand new 9mm gun!
I was so excited, it was “the real cop” gun, and I was gonna shoot it.
Unfortunately, I figured I already knew everything there was to know about shooting a gun,
So I was kinda tuning my Dad out as he tried explaining how to properly shoot the 9mm.

Well, a 9mm is a lot different from a rifle. It has a kick.
I didn’t bother heeding that part of my Dad’s instruction.
So I grabbed the gun, got in my cool “cop pose”, kinda goofing off,
pulled the trigger and BOOM.
I was nearly knocked over! I was thinking what in the world?!
To make matters worse, the bullet casing hit my neck
so my first thought was, “I shot myself!!”
And I was even trying to think mathematically how that would work
seeing I was aiming the gun the other way…
anyway, needless to say, I wasn’t shot.

The problem was how I was holding the gun and how I was standing.
My Dad then went on to explain (for the second time) that you must hold it
a certain way and must have a firm stance to counteract the kick.
After I got serious about it and followed my Dad’s instruction,
the gun’s kick was hardly felt and I had a lot more fun.
And hit my target... not myself... or my Dad.

A couple days later in my Bible study, I was studying how
Satan is out there to knock us off our feet.
And if we’re not careful to heed our Heavenly Father’s instructions,
we won’t be taking the right stance to remain standing against Satan’s attacks in our lives.
We’ll feel defeated and we’ll never hit our target.
But, if we watch and pray, and heed His instructions, Satan’s kicks won’t knock us down,
we can enjoy the Christian life, and we’ll be sure to hit our target every time.

Young Maiden's Daybook - September 20

2010-09-20T06:52:00.000-07:00

Today…
September 20, 2010

Outside my window…
The sun is rising over the desert! It's very chilly.

I am thinking…
Of the $300 I need by Wednesday
for my big scary school bill...

I am thankful…
That I can trust in the LORD to provide!

I am wearing...
Blue/green collared shirt and my roommate's khaki skirt.
;-)

I am reading…
The Holy Bible:Proverbs, John, various places;
"Changed Into His Image" by Jim Berg
"The Discipled Life" by Richard S. Taylor
"Exploring The Scriptures" by John Phillips

I am creating…
A two-page book report,
a summary of a commentary (how's that work?!),
a narrative for Speech on Thursday.

One of my favorite things…
College! Preaching, Bible study, ministries, music,
education, food, friends, fellowships, sunsets... ah!

For education this week…
Old testament Survey, English, Biology,
Microcomputer skills, Christian Womanhood,
Freshman speech, Collegiate Life, and College choir.

A keeper at home skill I am learning/using...
Not to depend on coffee! I think I'm pretty much off it now!

A spiritual lesson I'm learning...
Not to lean on my own understanding and ideas,
but to fully trust in the LORD and He will direct my paths!

A godly character trait I plan to work on…
Meekness.

Scripture I am memorizing…
"And I will put emnity between thee and the woman,
and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy
head, and thou shalt bruise his heel." Genesis 3:15
(For Old Testament Survey quiz today)

I'm praying for…
Financial provision through college;
Him to reveal His perfect will and help me trust in Him;
His strength (physically and spiritually);
My friends seeking for jobs; For many students to teach.

For the rest of the week…
School, studying, and sleeping;
chapel every day (woo hoo!!!);
practicing choir for Educator's Conference;
finishing my book report;
teaching Friday and setting up 2 more students;
spend time with my wonderful Savior;
and whatever else the Lord sees fit to send my way.

A picture I'm sharing...
Dr. Chappell's new Sunday morning theme!... :-)

Church: It's The Real Thing

Have a great week!

To learn how to participate, click HERE.

If you participate, please leave a comment
with a link to your daybook as well.

Dear Mom - Week 4

2010-09-18T22:27:00.000-07:00

SORRY I MISSED IT LAST WEEK! I WAS REALLY BUSY!!

MONDAY SEPTEMBER 13

Upon trying to wean myself off my coffee addiction,

I am now down to only 1 cup!! Today was a full day of classes.

I took my first Grammar quiz and got a 99!!

Biology is lots of fun and I just LOVE the science lab!

The new song we're learning in choir is sensational!

It's called "Preach the Word" and we're singing it

for the Educator's Conference next weekend! Fun!

Then spent most of my day studying and reading.

TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 14

I gave an introduction speech in Speech class!

Last Thursday we had interviewed a partner to introduce today.

We also had a much dreaded Microcomputer Class quiz... bleh!

Chapel was great, as always! :-)

Later we went to the volleyball game, which one of my roommates plays on our college team. WCBC Eagles won!! Yay!

WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 15

Grammar quiz didn't go so good this time. 80. :-/

My roommate and I later went to the mall applying for jobs everywhere.

We had a great time sitting in the mall couches filling out papers!

Returning back to campus, I auditioned for the drama players this year.

The church service was great that evening about winning souls,

and a friend and I chatted outside afterward while looking

at the different constellations and talking about the message.

THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 16

We all laughed as our Computer teacher said she wasn't

going to count the test since no one passed!

The test was actually dumb, since it asked about things

we hadn't even covered yet.

My roommates and I sat at the coffee shop studying for a while,

then they did other things while I moved to the lovely couches

in the Revels building to study! :-)

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 17

Got a 100 on Grammar! And an 88 in Biology.

The faculty had us roaring in laughter as they entered the stage

for chapel with big Hawaiian necklaces on! (promoting our luau 2morrow)

Dr. Goetsch was funny and not liking it, so after the first song he said he couldn't take that 'useless frivolity' anymore and tossed his necklace into the audience. LOL

After all our classes, I was dropped off at the music store

to meet and teach my first two darling students, Abigail and David.

Here's my little teaching studio...

I had such a lovely time, reorganized the store's books, and came really close to selling a guitar. We went to the student revival that evening, which was great!

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 18

I got to sleep in until 7:00!! I really needed that!

And today's my first day with no coffee at all! I'm still awake! (well, kinda...)

We went soul-winning and I had a "silent partner".

I knocked on 18 doors, witnessed to 4 people, and talked to one

lady about baptism who plans to come to church tomorrow!

The Luau we had all been looking forward to has finally come as well!

We had a WONDERFUL time of food, games, and fellowship!

(not to mention, the Hawaiian music was great!)

Here's me, Rachel, and Amy...

My friends, Nicholas and Adam at supper

(we had chicken & pineapple shish-ka-bobs)...

Me and Rachel at the games...

Me and Amy at the games...

Me and Dr. Rasmussen! :-)

Me and Brother Cox! (my Biology teacher)...

The 2010 Annual Luau was such a great and fun experience!

Now I'm off to study some before bed. :-)

Good night, everyone!

Young Maiden's Daybook - September 6

2010-09-06T06:06:00.000-07:00

Today…
September 6, 2010

Outside my window…
The beautiful campus in the dessert!

I am thinking…
Of God's goodness! Our God is AWESOME!

I am thankful…
For a job, great roommates, friends, & preaching.

I am wearing...
Lime green suit. :-)

I am reading…
The Holy Bible:Proverbs, John, various places;
"Changed Into His Image" by Jim Berg
"The Discipled Life" by Richard S. Taylor
:To Seek and To Save" by Paul Chappell

I am creating…
My book, Falling In Love With Jesus.
Digital photo album for my best friend.

One of my favorite things…
The chef's cooking here! He's great!
(but nothing beat's mama's!! :-)

For education this week…
Old testament Survey, English, Biology,
Microcomputer skills, Christian Womanhood,
Freshman speech, Collegiate Life, and College choir.

A keeper at home skill I am learning/using...
Getting up early to make it in time for breakfast!!

A spiritual lesson I'm learning...
Not to lean on my own understanding and ideas,
but to fully trust in the LORD and He will direct my paths!

A godly character trait I plan to work on…
Meekness.

Scripture I am memorizing…
"But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished,
bringeth forth death" James 1:14-15

I'm praying for…
Financial provision through college;
Him to reveal His perfect will and help me trust in Him;
His strength (physically and spiritually);
My friends seeking for jobs; For many students to teach.

For the rest of the week…
First day of classes tomorrow;
water park day Tuesday;
chapel every day (woo hoo!!!);
enemble and piano auditions on Wednesday,
possibly teaching my first lesson on Thursday,
spend time with my wonderful Savior;
and whatever else the Lord sees fit to send my way.

A picture I'm sharing...
View from my dorm!... :-)

Have a great week!

To learn how to participate, click HERE.

If you participate, please leave a comment
with a link to your daybook as well.

Dear Mom - Week 3

2010-09-05T16:16:00.000-07:00

MONDAY, AUGUST 30

Dad and I arrived on campus early,

and I received my dorm and registration packet!

I spent most of the day unpacking and organizing,

meeting my wonderful 2 roommates, and saying bye to Dad.

I enjoyed finding my way around my new home,

and loved hearing the great preaching in chapel.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 31

After chapel, we had to take our English placement tests.

After the results were graded, I then registered all my classes.

It was a busy day running back and forth from everywhere,

meeting great new friends, and lovely preaching!

I also saw a tumbleweed while passing through campus!!

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1

Today I drudged my way up to the finance office.

Payed the current bill due, then picked my mailbox key up.

I then went to buy all of my textbooks.

After the stress of nearly halfing my checkbook,

I relieved it by running my fingers over a piano for an hour!

Another wonderful message at evening service too!

THRUSDAY, SEPTEMBER 2

I was free! Yahoo! After chapel there was a job fair.

I applied at Wells Fargo, Bed Bath & Beyond,

and Cornerstone Music Store.

The owner of the music store and I really got along,

and he asked me to come in and set up an interview!!

Nothing else academically or financially to take care of,

so I hung out with all my great new friends & the piano.

We had a BBQ picnic for dinner, then watched hilarious

videos the faculty and staff made!! They had us rolling!

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 3

Not much after chapel. Very relaxing!

We all left to Los Angeles for a baseball game at 2!

Here I am with LA in the below!

I found out I love baseball and had a very fun time...

Amy and I

(my roommate)

Rachel and I

(3 dorms apart)

We also had a very fun time in the bus on the way home...

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 4

Before soul-winning orientation, I chatted with a new friend

as we shared our testimonies with eachother... such a blessing!

Afterwards, I went to my job interview.

God really provided, as he offered me the job as

his store piano instructor, and partial sales!

Lessons starting at $20 per half hour! YAY!

God has been really good in providing for me,

and is doing wonderful things here at college!

Young Maiden's Daybook - August 30

2010-08-30T20:01:00.000-07:00

Today…
August 30, 2010

Outside my window…
Hot desert city with plenty of wind to keep the heat away!

I am thinking…
About the excitement of my first week of college!

I am thankful…
For a wonderful church family up here at college,
and for the wonderful preaching and friendly students.

I am wearing...
Lime green suit. (may change l8r 4 activity!)

I am reading…
The Holy Bible:Proverbs, John, various places;
"Changed Into His Image" by Jim Berg
"Do Hard Things" AGAIN Ü by Alex & Brett Harris

I am creating…
My book, Falling In Love With Jesus.
Digital photo album for my best friend.

One of my favorite things…
Technology... I'm so thankful to have grown
up in the 20th / 21st century! ;-)

For education this week…
Planning my semester, buying my textbooks,
a couple activities, and chapel every day!

A keeper at home skill I am learning/using...
Trying to eat a little healthier.

A spiritual lesson I'm learning...
Not to lean on my own understanding and ideas,
but to fully trust in the LORD and He will direct my paths!

A godly character trait I plan to work on…
Spending extra extra time in Bible studying and prayer.

Scripture I am memorizing…
"The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble;
and he knoweth them that trust in him." Nahum 1:7

I'm praying for…
The Lord's guidance and provision through college;
Him to reveal His perfect will and help me trust in Him;
His strength (physically and spiritually);
For a several dear Christian friends;
Also praying that He sends more missionaries to
the much needed country of Greece and the rest of the world.

For the rest of the week…
Getting my dorm (tomorrow!);
unpacking and meeting roommates;
getting this semester planned out;
paying part of my... bill... :-/
spend time with my wonderful Savior;
and whatever else the Lord sees fit to send my way.

A picture I'm sharing...
Me at college... :-)

Have a great week!

To learn how to participate, click HERE.

If you participate, please leave a comment
with a link to your daybook as well.

Dear Mom... Week 2

2010-08-28T10:09:00.000-07:00

MONDAY AUGUST 23

Like most Mondays around home, it was a slow & sleepy morning.

I cleaned, made finishing touches to my shopping list, and rested.

TUESDAY AUGUST 24

We all awoke early, anticipating a field trip out with Dad.

He took us to the USS Midway, a ship that fought in WW2,

and happens to be 'parked' in downtown San Diego. :-)

It was a fun time as Dad showed us around, since it was similar

to a ship he had been deployed on previously.

We also go to look at cool jets and bombs!! :-)

WEDNESDAY AUGUST 25

Mom drove me around where I needed to go,

so I could pick up my last-minute things for college.

I was blessed to be able to get a pair of shoes that

meet the dress code, and matched my budget!

Afterwards, we all enjoyed a pound of assorted chocolates

using a gift card a friend gave us for See's Chocolates. YUM!

THURSDAY AUGUST 26

My little brother wanted to bless us all by making

chocolate chip pancakes... all on his own!

It was a bittersweet moment watching my 'baby brother'

flipping pancakes on the hot skillet!

Later, I packed nearly everything, except the last-minute things.

I also made a blog post (below) of what the Lord's been teaching me.

FRIDAY AUGUST 27

Enjoying my last day at home with my family,

everyone was sure to make it special for me!

Mom took me out thrift storing & bought me some new clothes.

Later we went to the dining area of my choice,

and the children showered me with hugs, kisses, & drawings.

I enjoyed one last tea time with my 'tea buddy',

and headed off to finish packing everything.

After enjoying homemade sourdough pizza with my family,

I went and played the Wii for the children.

Today was a bittersweet day!

SATURDAY AUGUST 28

The day that seemed to be so far off, has finally come!

Today Dad and I set off towards college.

We'll be getting a hotel, becoming familiar with the town,

and spending our last moments together (goofing off, I'm sure! lol)

I'm excited about meeting a few friends, hearing great preaching,

getting my dorm, and planning out my schoolyear!

Seeking God's Will...

2010-08-26T11:23:00.000-07:00

When you're on the brink of
your future, it's very difficult
and even a bit scary trying

to make a career choice.

I know. I'm there.

Above all, I want to do God's will,

but what is God’s will?

Well, it’s not our job to find God's will for anyone else,
but it is our duty to find out what God wants for our own lives.

We cannot go to other people and have them make the choice for us.

It's our own decision; our own lives to live for God.

The fact is, God has put me here and keeps me here because He has a purpose.

A plan from before I was born, and He waits to use me in that perfect way.

Life isn’t about just doing what I want, even if it’s a ‘good thing’.

Maybe I want to be a teacher, but is it what God wants for me?

Perhaps I want to be a doctor, but is it what God made me to be?

Maybe I dream of being a foreign missionary doing the Lord’s work,

but is that the Lord’s work for me?

So many times, we tend to settle for something good, or maybe even really
good, but we don’t bother pushing for God’s best for our own lives.

Now, the Lord has not planned for me to do something

I absolutely hate and I’ll have to miss out on everything I do like.

He is not a mean God who sits back thinking,

“OK, Ally dislikes this, and that’s what I want her to do to be a living

sacrifice, or else she doesn’t get my blessings.”

Quite the contrary, actually.

There comes great joy when doing the Lord’s will.

And He has taken care to plant every little thing about me…

He knows my interests, my likes, my desires;

and He wishes to use those things for His own will.

But when I’m in my flesh, I cannot properly balance such things,

and can easily be swayed into doing things off of how it feels to me.

He wishes to help us, to strengthen us with His own strength,

so that we may accomplish what we were created to do.

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

Ever since I took college-level chemistry in high school (at age 14!),

I dreamed of being a Nuclear Chemist. I have a great love for science

(especially chemistry) and have a very good understanding of it.

But at the time, I figured that it wasn’t the Lord’s perfect will for my life,
and thus gave that desire to Him about my 11th grade year in school.

Since I was 12, I thought foreign mission work was what God wanted.

After all, shouldn’t every God-fearing Christian
fulfill such a noble, godly calling?

I certainly have a heart for mission work, just as every Christian should,

so after graduating high school, I started making plans on how,

where, and when I was going to get to the mission field.

I figured I could better use my science for God by being a missionary doctor.

I was literally weighing the differences of careers from what

I thought was the eternal perspective of each situation.

Surely I was in the will of God! After all, look what I surrendered:

I wasn’t planning to fulfil my own dream to be a scientist!

Sacrifice, great plans, His work… yep, God must be pleased.

But I started really examining my heart and realizing
that it was I who had it all planned out.

I was doing what I thought was best. I was trying to serve Him in my flesh.

I was using my talents, my time, and my plans
in my own strength to try and please Him.

It was a humble realization to find that it was really not pleasing to Him.

Maybe He actually does want me to be a nuclear chemist?

Maybe He wants me to be a missionary doctor?

He could want me to be a plumber!

My ideas and plans for mission work were certainly good ones,

but I may have been shutting out God’s perfect will by doing what seemed
right to me, and what I thought would impress all the Christians around me.

And my plans may be what the Lord wants, but I was doing it in my own

ideas, ability, and strength, thus it was not pleasing to Him.

So many times we try to walk in the spirit through the flesh.

How contrary is that!

Yet, isn’t that the case a lot of the time?

We may want people to think,

“Oh, that’s a great Christian. He does great things for God.”

My desire is that people will not look at me and say

“What a good person she is”; but rather,

“What a great Savior He is.”

I am nothing without Christ. Jesus says,

“Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.” John 15:4.

Just as plucking off a branch from a vine isn’t going to get you grapes from the
branch; so a Christian working in his own flesh without Christ,

isn’t going to produce the right fruit.

We need to be abiding in the Lord day and night, all the time.

We must to be strengthened with His might, not our own.

Now, as I'm confused as to exactly what the Lord wants,

I've been learning to completely trust in Him, not in my own ideas.

I don't need to plan my whole life out, just take it one step at a time.

He'll put me where He wants me, I just need to be willing

and surrendered to wherever and whatever that is.

I encourage you, pour out your burden to the Lord,

tell Him what you want and what you feel you should do.

Ask Him to use you according His will. But don’t ask if you’re not willing.

Young Maiden's Daybook - August 23

2010-08-23T11:44:00.000-07:00

Today…
August 23, 2010

Outside my window…
Bright, blue, chilly, and gorgeous.

I am thinking…
About all the things to do this week!

I am thankful…
That I can trust fully in the LORD,
to direct my life according to His will,
even when I get confused or uncertain.

I am wearing...
Khaki skirt and white/brown top.

I am reading…
The Holy Bible:Proverbs, John, various places;
"Learning to Live With God" Bible study at church
"Changed Into His Image" by Jim Berg
"Do Hard Things" AGAIN Ü by Alex & Brett Harris

I am creating…
My book, Falling In Love With Jesus.
List of last-minute things to get for college.
Digital photo album for my best friend.

One of my favorite things…
Technology... I'm so thankful to have grown
up in the 20th / 21st century! ;-)

For education this week…
Going through a Clinical Neuroanatomy for Medical Students,
doing clinical problems of diagnosis and treatment this week!

A keeper at home skill I am learning/using...
Trying to eat a little healthier.

A spiritual lesson I'm learning...
Not to lean on my own understanding and ideas,
but to fully trust in the LORD and He will direct my paths!

A godly character trait I plan to work on…
Spending extra extra time in Bible studying and prayer.

Scripture I am memorizing…
"The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble;
and he knoweth them that trust in him." Nahum 1:7

I'm praying for…
The Lord's guidance & provision through college;
Him to reveal His perfect will and help me trust in Him;
His strength (physically & spiritually);
For a several dear Christian friends;
Also praying that He sends more missionaries to
the much needed country of Greece and the rest of the world.

For the rest of the week…
Spending my last week at home with my family;
leaving for college on Saturday (starts next week!);
finish packing everything up;
studying more in my Beloved's precious Word;
possibly going thrift storing this week,
responding to some letters, comments, and emails;
spend extra time with my wonderful Savior;
and whatever else the Lord sees fit to send my way.

A picture I'm sharing...
A wonderful promise from the Lord!

Have a great week!

To learn how to participate, click HERE.

If you participate, please leave a comment
with a link to your daybook as well.

Dear Mom... Week 1

2010-08-21T11:45:00.000-07:00

Today is exactly one week away from the date I leave for college!

As excited as I am, I'm also sad to be leaving my dear family behind.

I'm particularly going to miss the times I spend with my Mother;

she is my best friend, confidant, counselor, and... well... my Mom!

I'll miss our daily tea times, our daily conversations, and fun times together.

I know that college life is very busy and can be stressful,

but I do hope to still make time for blogging (and facebook Ü).

Since I've always found time to write a little something in my daily schedule,

I've decided to try to type up my journal/schedule entries at least once a week.
(I plan to add a few pictures or so to each entry!)

I've dedicated this new series of posts to my Mom,

as a way to keep in touch and to continue sharing my daily life with her.

I'll miss sharing life together in person, Mom, but these posts are for you!

I love you so much!

MONDAY, August 16

Most Mondays are pretty relaxing around the house.

I stared a 20-day devotional challenge called,

"Changed Into His Image" by Jim Berg. I'm just loving it!

I spent a lot of time getting more detailed info about college,

including getting my schedule for the first week.

I also put the finishing touches to my resume.

TUESDAY, August 17

I got up pretty early to clean a lady from church's house.

We hit morning rush hour, so we arrived about 1 hour late! lol

I spent about 4 hours deep cleaning while having little chats

here and there with her. Afterward, we ate lunch together

while in conversation at her table. I went home pretty exhausted!

WEDNESDAY, August 18

Mom took the girls to go grocery shopping,

while I stayed home with my 'lil bro to clean the house.

We had a great time while cleaning, then we shared a bag

of fries for lunch while on the wii and computer. :-)

THURSDAY, August 19

For some reason, I had a pretty sleepless night,

so I woke early (at 5am), and decided to surprise everyone

with cappuccino muffins! While they were baking, I went out

in the cool early morning breeze and had a lovely time with Jesus!
Then I caught up on my much-needed rest with a 3 hour nap.

FRIDAY, August 20

Our traditional homemade sourdough pizza day! :-)

Mom took the girls to Costco while Will and I stayed home.

I planned to do dishes, laundry, sweep, and mop,

but upon opening the dryer and seeing a large load of whites,

I had no time to finish the latter two tasks! lol

Matching socks and folding towels and shirt took about 30 min!

Later, Mom and I made the pizza, and the family gathered around

to watch a movie while enjoying the fresh, hot pizza.

SATURDAY, August 21

I woke up and had to pay the consequence of not setting

the coffee pot last night! Hardly able to open my eyes,

I sat at the kitchen counter with my laptop, waiting for

the coffee to finish brewing. Today we plan to have a couple

from church over for supper, which Dad is making grilled chicken.

He's had it sitting in the fridge marinating for 3 days,

so I'm anticipating it being nice and flavorful!

Young Maiden's Daybook - August 16

2010-08-16T10:48:00.000-07:00

Today…
August 16, 2010

Outside my window…
Bright, blue, chilly, and gorgeous.

I am thinking…
About spending time in extra Bible studying

I am thankful…
That my God shall supply ALL my needs,
according to the riches of HIS glory!

I am wearing...
Purple shirt and black skirt.

I am reading…
The Holy Bible:Proverbs, Luke, various places;
"Learning to Live With God" Bible study at church
"Changed Into His Image" by ??
"Do Hard Things" AGAIN Ü by Alex & Brett Harris

I am creating…
My book, Falling In Love With Jesus.
List of last-minute things to get for college.
Digital photo album for my best friend.

One of my favorite things…
California! I may be a true Michigander,
but I've got my heart here! =)

For education this week…
Going through a Clinical Neuroanatomy for Medical Students.
Also brushing up on Physics & some extra Biology.

A keeper at home skill I am learning/using...
Trying to eat a little healthier.

A spiritual lesson I'm learning...
Growing up. Taking responsibility for my life,
but still being in submission to the authority God's placed me under.

A godly character trait I plan to work on…
Spending extra extra time in Bible studying and prayer.

Scripture I am memorizing…
"The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble;
and he knoweth them that trust in him." Nahum 1:7

I'm praying for…
The Lord's guidance & provision through college;
His strength (physically & spiritually);
For a several dear Christian friends;
Also praying that He sends more missionaries to
the much needed country of Greece and the rest of the world.

For the rest of the week…
Spending time with my family;
Getting last-minute things for college (2 weeks!),
studying more in my Beloved's precious Word;
possibly going thrift storing this week,
responding to some letters, comments, and emails;
spend extra time with my wonderful Savior;
and whatever else the Lord sees fit to send my way.

A picture I'm sharing...
A new dress my friend bought me when we went shopping:

Have a great week!

To learn how to participate, click HERE.

If you participate, please leave a comment
with a link to your daybook as well.

Adventures In Songwriting : I Stand In Awe

2010-08-10T15:32:00.000-07:00

Here's the most recent song I wrote.

Having a video up was making my blog load up really slow,

sp I just wanted to share the words...

I STAND IN AWE

Lord, You are my Strength, my Comfort, and my Guide

Under Your wings I safely hide.

My Fortress and my Rock; My Shepherd and my Light

In Your love forever I'll abide.

(chorus)

I lift my hands and worship You alone

I fall at Your feet singing Your praise

For Your endless mercy and grace.

Now my life, my heart, my all I give to You

For all that You are

For all that You do

Lord, I stand in awe of You!

Lord, You are my Hope, Defender, and my King

Messiah, Redeemer, Prince of Peace

My Portion and my Cup; my Refuge and my Love

Whom have I in Heavn' but Thee above?

(chorus)

I lift my hands and worship You alone

I fall at Your feet singing Your praise

For Your endless mercy and grace.

Now my life, my heart, my all I give to You

For all that You are

For all that You do

Lord, I stand in awe of You!

Young Maiden's Daybook - August 9

2010-08-09T11:19:00.005-07:00

Today…
August 9, 2010
My parent's anniversary!

Outside my window…
Bright, chilly, and gorgeous.

I am thinking…
Of all the things I plan to do today.

I am thankful…
Not to suffer from humidity anymore.

I am wearing...
A pink/white collard shirt and white skirt.

I am reading…
The Holy Bible:Proverbs, Luke, various places;
"Learning to Live With God" Bible study at church
"Lies Women Believe" by Nancy Leigh DeMoss
"Do Hard Things" AGAIN Ü by Alex & Brett Harris

I am creating…
My book, Falling In Love With Jesus.
Words to more songs I'm writing.
Music video to a song I just finished.
Digital photo album for my best friend.

One of my favorite things…
The sweet, sweet hour of prayer.
What a privilege we have!

For education this week…
Going through a Clinical Neuroanatomy for Medical Students.
Also having some fun (yes, FUN!) with a "Practical Calculus" book. ;-)

A keeper at home skill I am learning/using...
Trying to eat a little healthier.

A spiritual lesson I'm learning...
Growing up. Taking responsibility for my life,
but still being in submission to the authority God's placed me under.

A godly character trait I plan to work on…
Spending extra extra time in Bible studying and prayer.

Scripture I am memorizing…
"The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble;
and he knoweth them that trust in him." Nahum 1:7

I'm praying for…
The Lord's guidance & provision through college;
His strength (physically & spiritually);
For a several dear Christian friends;
Also praying that He sends more missionaries to
the much needed country of Greece and the rest of the world.

For the rest of the week…
Writing in my book and words to songs;
spending time with my family;
getting things ready & planned for college (3 weeks!);
studying more in my Beloved's precious Word;
possibly going thrift storing this week,
responding to some letters, comments, and emails;
spend extra time with my wonderful Savior;
and whatever else the Lord sees fit to send my way.

A picture I'm sharing...
My lazy dog at the computer...

LOL!!

Have a great week!

To learn how to participate, click HERE.

If you participate, please leave a comment
with a link to your daybook as well.

Lessons In Young Adulthood

2010-08-07T21:34:00.010-07:00

The past couple of months
have been somewhat difficult for me.
Entering adulthood is a very exciting,
but challenging time.
Ever since I was little,
I just couldn't wait to be a 'grown-up'.
And now that it's within sight,
I constantly find myself impatient
and trying to rush things.
I suddenly fell for the idea
that since I was leaving home (for college),
I was the one who should be controlling my life.
Of course, I wasn't owning up to,
it in that wording,
but I figured that
since I'm pretty much an adult,
I can do what I want, right?

So I confess, I was getting pretty frustrated
if my parents would tell me "no",
or tell me to do a certain thing a certain way.
I mean, God should be my only authority,
shouldn't He?
I was actually believing
that I was the one in the right!

But God's been using
a lot of different circumstances,
and a lot of prayers and discussions
to pop my pride bubble
and show me I was the one who was wrong.
OUCH!

I was grieved at the disrespect
that I had allowed to pile up in my heart.
He's shown me that, still being under my parent's roof,
I am still under their authority, like it or not.
And just by turning 18,
it doesn't make me exempt from honoring my parents.
They are the authority God has placed in my life.
And the commandment He has given is
"Honor your parents".
No matter what age,
we're instructed to honor and obey our parents.

Parents are God-given authority in our lives.
They have lived longer, had more experience,
and can think clearer than we can.
God knows just what each of us needs
in order to be who He wants us to be.
His purpose was to use our parents to get us to that goal.

I realize that young adulthood
is a challenging time for many,
so I just wanted to encourage those of you
(and any age, for that matter!),
don't despise the convictions and rules
placed by your parents.
If you don't think they are God's 'rules',
well, they ARE!
He said to honor and obey,
thus that's His will for you right now!
If your Mom says to make supper,
it's actually God telling you to.

Looking back in my younger years,
I remember some rules and restrictions
that I thought at the time were dumb or pointless...
but I can now see
that the Lord has spared me a lot of heartache and trouble
by placing it in my parent's hearts,
even though I wasn't happy to comply.
I look back on something like that
and only wish I was more submissive
and obedient in those areas...
but I can't change the past.
I am writing the present and the future, however,
and it is my desire to be able
to look back and say that I was glad
of how I responded to
authority through my late teen years,
and throughout my life.

I've realized,
I really can't continue in that way on my own;
I need help from my precious, precious Jesus
every second of the day.
"I can do all things through Christ,
which strengtheneth me."
This is why it is so important
to keep a sweet and intimate relationship with Him!

We shouldn't just try and "survive"
the years of young adulthood,
we need to thrive.
God has lessons to teach us,
if we're willing to humble ourselves to listen.

Chocolate Meringue Stars

2010-08-07T14:33:00.004-07:00

I made these for the first time last night for our church fellowship.
They're the perfect light snack for a small get together.
They don't last long, so I recommend making a double batch!

CHOCOLATE MERINGUE STARS
from Taste of Home Baking Book (photo courtesy of cookbook)

3 egg whites
3/4 tsp vanilla
3/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup cocoa powder

1. Beat egg whites and vanilla on medium speed until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add sugar, beating on high until stiff peaks form.
3. Gently fold in cocoa
4. Insert a #8b tip into a pastry bag; fill with meringue.
5. Pipe stars, about 1-1/4 in in diameter, or drop by rounded
teaspoonfuls onto ungreased parchment paper.
6. Bake at 300 degrees for 30-35 minutes or until lightly browned.
7. Remove from paper; cool on wire racks.

GLAZE:
1. Melt 3 squares of semisweet chocolate and 1 TBSP of shortening.
2. Dip cookies halfway into glaze; place on wax paper until set.

ENJOY!

Cakies...

2010-08-04T18:52:00.006-07:00

These have become a family favorite over the years.
We named it "cakie" because they taste like little mini cakes.

COCOA DROP COOKIES
from Betty Crocker's 40th Anniversary Cookbook

1 cup sugar
3/4 cup softened butter
1 egg
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/3 cup milk or water
1 tsp vanilla
1 3/4 cup flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup chopped nuts, if desired

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

2. Mix sugar, butter, egg, cocoa, milk, & vanilla.

3. Stir in flour, soda, salt, and nuts.

4. Drop dough by rounded teaspoonfulls on greased cookie sheet.

5. Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until almost no indentation remains when touched.

6. If desired, frost with chocolate frosting:
Heat 2oz of unsweetened chocolate and 2TBSP butter over low heat
until melted; remove from heat. Stir in 3TBSP water and 2cups
powdered sugar until smooth.

Young Maiden's Daybook - August 2

2010-08-02T12:06:00.002-07:00

Today…
August 2, 2010

Outside my window…
Bright and beautiful... what else would Cali be? ;-)

I am thinking…
My, oh my! It's already August?!?

I am thankful…
For whoever discovered how to brew coffee!

I am wearing...
"I Have the Sleepiness" shirt & black skirt.

I am reading…
The Holy Bible:Proverbs, Luke, various places;
"Learning to Live With God" Bible study at church
"Lies Women Believe" by Nancy Leigh DeMoss
"Do Hard Things" AGAIN Ü by Alex & Brett Harris

I am creating…
My book, Falling In Love With Jesus.
Words to more songs I'm writing.

One of my favorite things…
The sweet, sweet hour of prayer.
What a privilege we have!

For education this week…
Going through a Clinical Neuroanatomy for Medical Students.
Also having some fun (yes, FUN!) with a "Practical Calculus" book. ;-)

A keeper at home skill I am learning/using...
Trying to eat a little healthier.

A spiritual lesson I'm learning...
The LORD always provides!
If He wants you somewhere, He's going to get you there!
He is good beyond all my comprehension!

A godly character trait I plan to work on…
Spending extra extra time in Bible studying and prayer.

Scripture I am memorizing…
"The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble;
and he knoweth them that trust in him." Nahum 1:7

I'm praying for…
The Lord's guidance & provision through college;
His strength (physically & spiritually);
For a several dear Christian friends;
Also praying that He sends more missionaries to
the much needed country of Greece and the rest of the world.

For the rest of the week…
Spending time with my family;
getting things ready & planned for college (4 weeks!);
studying more in my Beloved's precious Word;
possibly going thrift storing this week,
responding to some letters, comments, and emails;
spend extra time with my wonderful Savior;
and whatever else the Lord sees fit to send my way.

A picture I'm sharing...
Homemade cream puffs I made this past week...

Have a great week!

To learn how to participate, click HERE.

If you participate, please leave a comment
with a link to your daybook as well.

Young Maiden's Daybook - July 26

2010-07-26T10:19:00.003-07:00

Today…
July 26, 2010

Outside my window…
A beautiful gray sky is overshadowing the city below.

I am thinking…
Of how the LORD is providing in my life!
He is so amazing.

I am thankful…
For church family who are such a blessing to me.

I am wearing...
Clothes... what else? lol

I am reading…
The Holy Bible:Proverbs, Luke, various places;
"Learning to Live With God" Bible study at church
"Lies Women Believe" by Nancy Leigh DeMoss
"The Way Back" by Elizabeth Rice Hanford

I am creating…
My book, Falling In Love With Jesus.
Word to 2 more songs I'm writing.
Thank you cards for all the people who
arranged my "Dorm shower" party yesterday.

One of my favorite things…
My Mom. *Ü*
She's always there for me in the bad times,
and tries her best to keep them away. I love you, Mom!

For education this week…
Going through a Clinical Neuroanatomy for Medical Students.

A keeper at home skill I am learning/using...
Trying to eat a little healthier.

A spiritual lesson I'm learning...
The LORD always provides!
If He wants you somewhere, He's going to get you there!
He is good beyond all my comprehension!

A godly character trait I plan to work on…
Spending extra extra time in Bible studying and prayer.

Scripture I am memorizing…
"The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble;
and he knoweth them that trust in him." Nahum 1:7

I'm praying for…
The Lord's guidance & provision through college;
His strength (physically & spiritually);
For a several dear Christian friends;
Also praying that He sends more missionaries to
the much needed country of Greece and the rest of the world.

For the rest of the week…
Spending time with my family;
getting things ready & planned for college (5 weeks!);
studying more in my Beloved's precious Word;
writing 'thank you' cards for my church family who
gave many gifts and arranged my party yesterday,
possibly getting the rest of my shopping done this week,
responding to some letters, comments, and emails;
spend extra time with my wonderful Savior;
and whatever else the Lord sees fit to send my way.

A picture I'm sharing...
A dear christian friend and I yesterday...

Have a great week!

To learn how to participate, click HERE.

If you participate, please leave a comment
with a link to your daybook as well.

Avoiding Contamination...

2010-07-23T11:17:00.006-07:00

"I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world,
but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil." John 17:15

Consider how important it is for a doctor
to wear gloves to prevent contamination.
He could ignore the obvious dangers, or he could
stay away from danger by not caring for people at all.
He chooses, however, to both care for the needs of his patients
and avoid contamination by wearing protective gloves.

The world we live in is a sinful place that is hostile
to Spirit-filled living, yet it's filled with many needy people.
Obviously, God's plan is not to completely withdraw from the world.
His will is for us to live in this world, helping sinful men,
all the while protecting ourselves from sin through the
promised power of the Holy Spirit.

from "Learning To Live With God"
Discipleship course by Jeff Musgrave

My New Luggage!

2010-07-21T18:28:00.003-07:00

Today I received a package with a gift from Gramma and Papa.
Gramma had been telling me she was ordering my luggage
for the past couple of weeks, and today it arrived!!
I just love the capacious sizes and colors of this 7-piece set:

I'm really looking forward to using them in only 5 weeks!
Thank you, Grandmama and Papa!!
This was such a blessing to me!

Young Maiden's Daybook - July 19

2010-07-19T10:20:00.002-07:00

Today…
July 19, 2010

Outside my window…
The cool breeze is softly blowing on
this bright and beautiful day in California!

I am thinking…
Of the large time-distance between my last daybook.
Sorry it's been so long, everyone!

I am thankful…
For my new home in this beautiful new state!

I am wearing...
Er.... pajamas still. :-o

I am reading…
The Holy Bible:Proverbs, Luke, various places;
"Learning to Live With God" Bible study at church
"Lies Women Believe" by Nancy Leigh DeMoss
"The Way Back" by Elizabeth Hanford Rice

I am creating…
My book, Falling In Love With Jesus.
Word to 2 more songs I'm writing.

One of my favorite things…
My morning hugs from each of my family members!

For education this week…
Going through a Clinical Neuroanatomy for Medical Students.

A keeper at home skill I am learning/using...
Trying to eat a little healthier.

A spiritual lesson I'm learning...
The LORD always provides!
If He wants you somewhere, He's going to get you there!
He is good beyond all my comprehension!

A godly character trait I plan to work on…
Spending extra extra time in Bible studying and prayer.

Scripture I am memorizing…
"The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble;
and he knoweth them that trust in him." Nahum 1:7

I'm praying for…
The Lord's guidance & provision through college;
His strength (physically & spiritually);
For a several dear Christian friends;
Also praying that He sends more missionaries to
the much needed country of Greece and the rest of the world.

For the rest of the week…
Spending time with my family;
getting things ready & planned for college (6 weeks!);
studying more in my Beloved's precious Word;
responding to some letters, comments, and emails;
spend extra time with my wonderful Savior;
and whatever else the Lord sees fit to send my way.

A picture I'm sharing...
My ugly baby as we drove down the road...

Have a great week!

To learn how to participate, click HERE.

If you participate, please leave a comment
with a link to your daybook as well.

Cry For The Children...

2010-07-09T14:18:00.007-07:00

(song written and performed by the southern gospel group, Inspirations)

Values of this world are twisted and evil;
And in our minds we cannot find right or wrong anymore.
We spend to recycle, keep our highways clear;
We're concerned about things like the earth's atmosphere.
And some even cry because the well may not always be here.

But we're killing our children;
It's time to cry for the children!
For their blood flows like a river
In the name of women's rights.
But God knows each heartbeat;
He knows when every birthday should have been.
America, please, get back on your knees
For the sake of our children.

Eyes that never saw Mother, now gaze on the Savior.
And cries never made are now cries of praise to the Lamb they adore.
Little hands that in death were torn apart,
Are now held by a hand that's nail-scarred.
Heaven now welcomes innocent children we daily destroy.

'Cuz we're killing our children.
It's time to cry for the children!
For their blood flows like a river
In the name of women's rights.
But God knows each heartbeat;
He knows when every birthday should have been.
America, please, get back on your knees
For the sake of our children.

Surrendered In Love

2010-06-28T09:54:00.003-07:00

A rough draft excerpt from the book I'm writing,
Falling In Love With Jesus

...For so long, I’ve had a somewhat distorted vision of what “God’s will” really is.
I seemed to have fallen for the idea that it consisted of what I wanted to do,
but fitting in some type of Christianity, and slapping the label of “God’s will” on it.
Oh sure, I was still making ‘sacrifices’,
(such as letting go of things that were ‘really bad’)
but all in all I was still happy; therefore God must be happy, right?
From my own outlook, I was pleasing the Lord and was ‘in His will’;
but in reality, I was following what my flesh wanted
and missing out on what God really planned for me.
He really brought that home to me when I read the verse in Romans 8…
“So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.”
Thankfully this is not a hopeless case meaning that
anyone with human bodies has no chance of pleasing God.
It simply holds up to the fact that the spirit and flesh war against each other.
And when we are just doing what our flesh enjoys,
we are continually feeding our flesh, therefore living in the flesh;
and any efforts to try and throw in ‘spiritual things’ here and there
are not pleasing to the Lord.
Perhaps they are ‘for the Lord’ and are very good things,
but we’re ‘doing good’ for Him in our own strength.
“For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing…”
Our ‘righteousness’ and ‘good works’ are as filthy rags
when done in our flesh and in our strength.
We’re only laying up wood, hay, & stubble.

So what is God’s will?
Well, I have no idea what His will is for my friend, siblings, or anyone else;
but it is my duty to find out His will for me.
Now as I mentioned above, it’s not about what ‘feels’ right or makes me happy;
but rather what the Lord, who has allowed me to live on this earth, planned for me.
I came to some interesting realizations while searching for the Lord’s will…
if He truly wanted to, He could surely take me Home in an instant.
Of course I subconsciously knew this, but somehow I started
consciously knowing this concept and actually came to grips with it.
In all reality, I surely never deserve the next day He gives me,
so what am I really here for today anyway?
The fact is, He put me here and keeps me here because He has a purpose.
A plan from before I was even born,
and He’s waiting to use me in that perfect way.
How longsuffering He is with us when day after day we refuse
to surrender to His plan and yet He gives us another day!

It was under these realizations that I truly came to know that I was not my own!
Life isn’t about doing what I want, even if it’s a ‘good thing’.
Maybe I want to be a teacher, but is it what God wants for me?
Perhaps I want to be a doctor and help people that way,
but is it what God made me to be?
Maybe I dream of being a foreign missionary doing the Lord’s work,
but is that the Lord’s work for me?
So many times, we tend to settle for something good, or maybe even really good,
but we don’t bother pushing for God’s best for lives.
Now, I’m in no way saying that the Lord has planned for me to do something
I absolutely hate and I’ll have to miss out on everything I do like.
He is not a mean God who sits back thinking,
“OK, Ally dislikes this, and that’s what I want her to do
to be a living sacrifice, or else she doesn’t get my blessings.”
Quite the contrary, actually.
There comes great joy when doing the Lord’s will.
And He has taken care to plant every little thing about me…
He knows my interests, my likes, my desires;
and He wishes to use those things for His own will.
But when I’m in my flesh, I cannot properly balance such things,
and can easily be swayed into doing things off of how it feels to me.
He wishes to help us, to strengthen us with His own strength,
so that we may accomplish what we were created to do.
“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”
Paul wasn’t boasting,
“I can do a lot on my own ‘cuz I’m a pretty strong and spiritual man”.
He actually worded quite well the dilemma of every Christian when humbly saying,
“For the good that I would I do not:
but the evil which I would not, that I do.”
He doesn’t end with this hopeless statement, but rather contrasts it:
“I thank God THROUGH JESUS CHRIST OUR LORD.
So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God;
but with the flesh the law of sin.”
Indeed, as our Lord put it in the garden of Gethsemane,
“…the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Our flesh is very weak indeed, and thus cannot do anything in it
pleasing to the Lord, even if our mind is ‘in the right place’.
So many times we can easily fall into the mindset of
“It’s for the Lord, after all. Anything will do.”
We cannot use such excuses to justify our sin.

Look at King Saul, for instance.
In 1 Samuel 15, Saul was told by the prophet
Samuel that the Lord commanded that the Amalekites were to be completely wiped out.
“Now go and smite Amalek, and utterly destroy ALL that they have,
and SPARE THEM NOT; But slay both man and woman, infant and suckling,
ox and sheep, camel and ass.” Verse 3 states.
So Saul went and killed off the Amalekites in verse 7.
However, he takes a wrong turn in verse 9,
“But Saul and the people spared Agag, and the best of the sheep,
and of the oxen, and of the fatlings, And the lambs,
and all that was good, and would not utterly destroy them;
but everything that was vile and refuse, that they did destroy.”
Now seeing this from where we are, we see this as flat-out disobedience.
But in Saul’s point of view, he really thought He was pleasing the Lord.
After all, He did still do what the Lord told him to do… the Amalekites were dead.
In fact, when Samuel came to him again, he proudly proclaimed,
“I have performed the commandment of the Lord.”
Did he really?
Is that what the Lord wanted?
Seems to me the Lord wasn’t very pleased.
Oh, but he did have a pretty good mindset, for he claimed,
“(I) have… spared the best of the sheep and of the oxen,
to sacrifice to the Lord thy God…”
Saul thought he could do it his own way.
Saul thought it would be good to sacrifice to the Lord.
Saul thought he was in the ‘will of God’.
Saul was ‘doing it for the Lord’.
Saul thought the Lord was pleased.
Because he was placing his own reasoning
and logic before the Lord, he was doing it in his flesh.
The Lord was not pleased.
Samuel readily rebuked him by saying, “Behold, to obey is better
than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.”
He was readily punished as well,
“Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD,
he hath also rejected thee from being king.”

Now isn’t that like us sometimes?
We use our own thinking, our own logic (our flesh!), and throw in some
commandment of the Lord in the middle and boast we’re “in the will of God”.
Oh, but we’re doing it “for the Lord”; “I’m happy so He must be happy too.”
Obedience is better than sacrifice.
I can give up everything I want in this world
and do what I think is an ultimate sacrifice, but if isn’t what God told me to do,
than it’s still disobedience and He is not pleased.
Imagine the wonderful blessings that Saul
could have had if he had wholly obeyed the Lord.
Imagine the wonderful blessing we may be missing
out on when we’re not in the perfect will of God...

Our Long Journey West: TX-CA

2010-06-26T16:01:00.008-07:00

... in continuation of my last post...

From Texas to New Mexico:
After traveling through the long state of Texas for 4 days,
we finally got a change of scenery in New Mexico.
We just took the day to drive through, without stopping.
The terrain fascinated me, as it was more of a red dirt rock:

Driving through Roswell was amusing, seeing all the alien things,
including a few alien museums and research centers:

It was in New Mexico that I witnessed my first dirt devils:

They're so cute to watch form, spin around, and dissipate.
I discovered that they are the only tornadoes that I like. Ü

From New Mexico to Arizona:
Arizona was, for the most part, very much like New Mexico.
Very rocky, desert-ish, and plenty of cactus to go around!

On our way to Flagstaff, where we camped,
we drove through the Petrified Forrest and Painted Desert...

It was a lovely drive and very beautiful.
It literally looked like God took a paint brush
and painted the desert!

The next day, we traveled to the Grand Canyon.
On our way there, we passed beautiful mountains:

The Grand Canyon was absolutely amazing!
We all enjoyed standing in front of one of the look-outs...

I enjoyed sitting on the edge and just admiring
God's amazing creation of such a huge wonder...

Dad may have gotten just a little too close, though ;-)

I'd have to say, the Grand Canyon was one
of my favorite parts of the whole trip.
It was such a reminder of what a big and great God I serve!
Another wonderful thing about Arizona, was the beautiful sunsets
they have when going through the mountains...

From Arizona to California:
Finally, after many days of traveling,
we arrived in our new home state!!
I found it interesting looking at the border of Mexico.
(when I lived in MI, I was only about 15 mins from Canada,
now it's funny being about that far from Mexico!)

I was just so fascinated with the desert we passed through!
I felt like I was in Saudi Arabia or something!
It was gorgeous...

After going through 2 border patrol stops,
we arrived at Devil's Canyon...

It was a rather creepy feeling having to drive
through the huge piles of rocks...

After driving for a while, we arrived at our campsite,
where we stayed for 3 weeks waiting to move into our new home.
We also had fun looking around our new hometown =)
(I'm just loving the big city!)

The campsite we stayed at was a very
nice place with lots of nature to explore.
One time I took my dog on a walk, she jumped
into the river chasing after the ducks!!

After being wet then rolling in dirt, she was terribly muddy!!

I was so pleased to be able to get very close to
the ducks and get good pictures of them...

The Lord blessed us with a new home very quickly,
in which we are now settled in (save a few more boxes Ü).

I must admit, when it was first mentioned to me that I was
going to be crammed into a small camper with my whole family
for over a month, I wasn't too excited about not having "my space".
But I have to say, that during our long time of camping and traveling,
we built great memories together of grill-outs, walks, family games,
kayaking, special talks, and just hanging out & growing closer.
I wouldn't trade anything in the world for all that time we shared!
As glad as I am to be back in a house,
with my own room and personal space,
I must say that a part of me misses that closeness we
all shared by living in that 29 foot camper.

Thank you, Mom and Dad, for giving us all a wonderful experience
I know that we will treasure the rest of our lives.

Our Long Journey West: NC-TX

2010-06-24T17:00:00.006-07:00

After over 40 days of traveling, we have finally arrived
at our new home in California!
We are all praising the LORD for a safe, fun, & productive journey.
We made a lot of stops and visits along the way,
so I'm trying to shorten the details and choose from over 1,000 pics!
There's still a lot to post about, so I'll divide it up into 2 posts.

From North Carolina to Georgia-

We stopped in Georgia to visit our uncle,
as well as some old friends we knew since we lived in SC.
(sorry, we actually didn't really take any pics here!)

From Georgia to Alabama-

We stopped in Alabama to visit our grandparents on my dad's side.
We also enjoyed stopping at a natural Artesian well to fill our water bottles!

From Alabama to Arkansas-

We stopped in Arkansas for 2 weeks to visit our grandparents on my Mom's side.
We had a wonderful time spending time together;
including fishing, bonfires, having more relatives over for supper,
chatting an afternoon away on the swing, swimming,
and attending a Mother-daughter banquet with Gramma for Mother's Day...

I learned that in the country, it's very quiet and peaceful,
and the days seem to go by slower.
I was able to enjoy my quiet time with the Lord outside
in the crisp, cool air of the morning.
It is, as my papa calls it, "God's country" Ü.
I miss everyone there so much already.

From Arkansas to Texas-

Texas was the farthest west we had ever been...

Our first stop (after camping), we went to a Creation Evidence Museum.
I found really interesting that there was a
human footprint inside of a dinosaur footprint!

I was also fascinated to see ancient biblical scrolls...

It was great blessing to see museum ancient artifacts
with a creationist point of view, instead of having to
ignore the "billions of years" statements. lol

After that, we went over to the Dinosaur World.
There was a "dino walk" where lots of life-sized
dinosaurs were on the side of the path!

I sure wouldn't want to be attacked by one of these in real life! ;-)

We also went to a Wildlife preserve with lots of foreign animals.
It was a 3 hour safari drive, and we were able to feed and pet
the animals that were roaming around freely.

The giraffes were so cute sticking their heads down in our sunroof =)

The next day, we traveled to San Antonio to see the Alamo...

I thought it interesting that a historic building was
in the middle of a really big city. Ü
I really enjoyed walking through the big city of San Antonio.
And Dad blessed us with a yummy treat of ice cream on the way back:

On our way out of Texas, we ran right into a path of 2 tornadoes.
We were headed straight for them without knowing it,
but Dad had some instinct to pull-over into a certain RV camp.
We thank God that He put the idea into Dad!
We prayed for a while, and I read Psalm 91 aloud, a passage the LORD
has led me to in the past during frightening situations.
And the Lord really kept His hand of protection
over us and allowed the tornadoes to go around us and dissipate.
We stood in awe as we watched Him literally "roll" the storm clouds away
with heavy winds that we could see blowing the clouds the other way!!
We were very thankful He allowed us to get out of Texas safely!

"He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High
shall abide under that shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress:
my God; in Him will I trust... For He shall give His angels
charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways..."
Psalms 91:1,2,&11

To Be Continued...

Sorry For The Silence

2010-05-04T12:36:00.003-07:00

As most could probably deduct from the length
of time span between this and the last post,
I have been extremely busy.
I was working about 45 hours a week, packing for the move,
living with my best friend for 2 weeks,
and have finally hit the road to California with my family.
While I do have acess to the internet at almost any time,
(via Mom's droid phone and wireless internet on my laptop)
I'll probably be very busy with visiting, exploring,
and settling in for the next month or so.
Thus, I'm going to officially declare a break in blogging.
I'll try to post a status on Facebook at any chance I get,
and if I ever get really bored, maybe I'll post a quick update here.
But I just wanted to let everyone know what was going on
and that I wasn't just MIA. :-)
I hope to have some great things to post about when we get settled.
The Lord has good things in store,
and I'm excited to see His plans unfold.
ENJOY YOUR SPRING!!!!!

Young Maiden's Daybook - April 5

2010-04-05T02:22:00.005-07:00

Today…
April 5, 2010

Outside my window…
Dark, cold, & the sun is getting ready to start appearing Ü.

I am thinking…
"Had it not been for a place called Mount Calvary;
Had it not been for the old rugged cross;
Had it not been for a man called Jesus;
Then forever my soul would be lost."
I am SO glad that Jesus sacrificed His life for me
and that I have a secured place in Heaven!

I am thankful…
For the Lord's blessing of wonderful friends.
I'm really sad to be leaving them soon :-(.

I am wearing...
Chick-Fil-A uniform:
maroon collared shirt & black skirt.

I am reading…
The Holy Bible:Proverbs, Mark, 1 Corinthians;
The Apocrypha: Wisdom of Solomon
"Fascinating Truths" by James Knox
"The Lost Cause Series" by James Knox
"Do Hard Things" by Alex and Brett Harris

I am creating…
A book that I've been praying for 5 years about writing
(Falling In Love With Jesus).

One of my favorite things…
The Lord's blessing of growing up in a fantastic Christian family!
I will be ever so sad to leave them! :-(

For education this week…
Studying and preparing hard for the ACT test
(coming up THIS SATURDAY!!!!!! ahhhh!).

A keeper at home skill I am learning/using...
I think I'm going to try to eat a little healthier.

A spiritual lesson I'm learning...
Letting my light shine before men,
as my mom reminds me before I go to work.
I've had the opportunity to invite some coworkers
to church and have even been able to witness to one!

A godly character trait I plan to work on…
Staying in prayer and more Bible studying.

Scripture I am memorizing…
"Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men,
him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.
But whosoever shall deny me before men,
him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven.
Think not that I am come to send peace on earth:
I came not to send peace, but a sword.
For I am come to set a man at variance against his father,
and the daughter against her mother,
and the daughter in law against her mother in law.
And a man's foes shall be they of his own household.
He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me:
and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.
And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.
He that findeth his life shall lose it:
and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it."
Matthew 10:32-39

I'm praying for…
The Lord's guidance through my life;
His strength (physically & spiritually) while I'm working;
For wisdom about this upcoming move;
For His provision for college;
Also praying that He sends more missionaries to
the much needed country of Greece and the rest of the world.

For the rest of the week…
Working full time at Chick-Fil-A (getting paid again this week!!);
packing up my things for the move;
making a list of things to get for college;
studying online/reading ACT & taking the test Saturday;
responding to some letters, comments, and emails;
spend extra time with my wonderful Savior;
and whatever else the Lord sees fit to send my way.

A picture I'm sharing...
The passover meal we ate as a family...

It was a delicious reminder of what Christ did for us.
I really enjoyed observing passover this year with the family!!

Have a great week!

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