About a Girl

2012-01-05T04:26:00.002-05:00

ahh.. How did I already hit a month without an update?! OH that's right, there were the Holidays! Well, hopefully I'm back in business! several things have happened... and yet so much more to go! We booked the ceremony at the Appleby Library.

So excited about this. It was a great deal and it's really beautiful. You can't see any of the trees, but the library is surrounded Magnolia's and such. We won't even need to decorate that much because of the natural beauty here. I have a lot of vision for this day. So pumped about it being outside. I've always felt closer to God within Nature.

The reception will be at our church, The Well. I'm so thankful for the opportunity of having our reception there. I was very tempted to have the whole event there, but the outdoors had a strong hold on me and I could not get away from it.

Next up we have a dear friend of mine and wonderful photographer Katie Bryant. She does such beautiful work! Nathan and I are so excited for her to capture the anticipated moments on our special day. Thanks Kaitie!!

I found some shoes ideas! I love the idea of solid bold colors!! For the girls and myself!! Although, I don't really know what I'll be wearing for sure...

And here's a picture of my dress! It's so beautiful!!

As Alicia Silverstone said it best in Clueless, "As if!!!"

Yeah, this is NOT my dress. I will not be showing my dress on my public blog for anyone (including Nathan) to see. I'm so excited to make it a fun surprise for our wedding. And we will NOT be seeing each other before it! Sorry folks, you will just have to start having fun at the reception without us!

There's still much more, like our honeymoon is BOOKED!!! Wow, I might be more excited about that :) To THE Cancún we go! Yes, I said THE Cancún.

Okay, eyes are shutting. Night!! more to come soon!

You can see some of my other thoughts on Pinterest. Go to my A Wedding to be... board and you'll see some inspiration. Feel free to share your thoughts! Remember, we are on a budget so cheap, free and/or DIY are great things for us to know!! Let the countdown begin! 4 months away!!

Much love!

2011-11-22T02:59:00.001-05:00

Well, Updates again! Nathan and I have picked a date... drum rroooooooolllll please?

It's CINCO de Mayo! That's right. May 5th! Woohoo

We are hoping to get married here:

Plans are in the works.

I'm getting less anxious and more excited now. I knew I would as soon as I had a venue and date! Whew.

Now I can start talking to people about wedding details. Like: ask people to be in my wedding. or tell our folks when to get plane tix. Or start creating more realistically. Just pray that this journey would be encouraging and NOT discouraging. God is good and he has brought the most amazing man into my life. So thankful for His good gifts. More to come this week.

2011-11-16T03:18:00.000-05:00

So I have been really meaning to get back into blogging... and as I sit down to actually update my site, I see it has been well over a year since I've blogged. Sad and crazy. BIG things have happened in this last year and a half.

One of the biggest things:

On 4/25/10 my boyfriend and I went out on our first date together. :)

We got engaged on 11/12/11!

and now I see that I started to blog several times this summer.... so here's a collection of SOME events.

Started Obstetrics (OB) rotations in May (2010) last year which brought me to Labor and Delivery at the wonderful Hospital with which I work! L&D night nurse... whoop whoop!

Then I made my first trip to Aiken, SC where my friends and I had a photo shoot. :)

Then Kendall and I make our way to Atlanta to see the Swell Season!

LOVE!

Nathan & Lance were so jealous. :)

My first trip to Charleston was with my bible study girls on spring break!

Sisters and I got to see Imogen Heap!! (Our first time!)

Then we sang, "Just for Now" and she conducted us :)

Overall an AMAZING show!!

June Weddings!!

Julie and I at Stephanie And D-rock's...

Me with Steph and D!

Caitlin, Christy and I headed to Mallory and Josh's.

Nathan and I before we leave for Mallory and Josh's.

Amanda's First baby shower! Yep... she got pregnant AND had a baby all in the time I've been M.I.A. from the blogging world.

He's 13 and 1/2 months now!

There's so much more that has happened in this past year and a half. But, if I try to bring it all back I'll never post anything... so let's just start anew... ish. If I need to backtrack, I will. But for now, off to wedding planning!!

WEDDING!

We are on a BUDGE-it! Nathan and I will be planning and paying for this wedding ourselves, so this is going to have to be a very well thought out process. Ha! I like DIY stuff, but I don't want to be stressed on my wedding day either! I've been utilizing the pinterest world for a little bit now. I've loved the different ideas I've come across there. I also LOVE this blog. I just stumbled across it a few days ago, but I LOVE it!! I swear, it's updated EVERY DAY! There are some really beautiful things! Anyway, I'm looking for ideas and direction from anyone out there who's had to plan a wedding similarly. Thanks all! I hopefully will start posting EVERY WEEK!!! Feel free to give me a nudge if you don't see some action by next wednesday! I'm back y'all!!

Just one

2011-09-15T22:59:00.000-04:00

I made this... ha

Obsessed

2010-04-24T15:17:00.002-04:00

So I'm reading Crazy Love by Francis Chan and I got stoked by Chapter Eight. "Profile of the obsessed." The first thing in this chapter you read is:

"Obsessed: To have the mind excessively preoccupied with a single emotion or topic." (Chan, p 129)
The chapter then Goes on to talk about how we should be obsessed with JESUS...

"People who are obsessed with Jesus give freely and openly, without censure. Obtsessed people love those who hate them and who can never love them back." (Chan, p 132)

"People who are obsessed with Jesus aren't consumed with their personal safety and comfort above all else. Obsessed people care more about God's kingdom coming to this earth than their own lives being shielded from pain or distress." (Chan, p 133)

"People who are obsessed with Jesus live lives that connect them with the poor in some way or another. Obsessed people believe that jesus talked about money and the poor so or often because it was really important to Him (1 John 2:3-6; Matt. 16:24-26)." (Chan, p 135)

"Obsessed people are more concerned with obeying God than doing what is expected or fulfilling the status quo. A person who is obsessed with Jesus will do things that don't always make sense in terms of success or wealth on this earth. As Martin Luther put it, ' There are two days on my calendar: this day and that day' (Luke 14:25-35; Matt. 7:13-23; 8:18-22; Rev. 3:1-6)." (Chan, pp 136-137)

"A person who is obsessed with Jesus knows that the sin of pride is always a battle. Obsessed people know that you can never be 'humble enough,' and so they seek to make themselves less known and Christ more known (Matt. 5:16)." (Chan, p 138)

"People who are obsessed with Jesus do not consider service a burden. Obsessed people take joy in loving God by loving His people (matt. 13:44; John 15:8)." (Chan, p139)

"People who are obsessed with God are known as givers, not takers. Obsessed people genuinely think that others matter as much as they do, and they are particularly aware of those who are poor around the world (James 2:14-26)." (Chan, p 141)

"A person who is obsessed thinks about heaven frequently. Obsessed people orient their lives around eternity; they are not fixed only on what is here in front of them. (Chan, p 143)

"People who are obsessed are raw with God; they do not attempt to mask the ugliness of their sins or their failures. Obsessed people don't put it on God; He is their safe place, where they can be at peace." (Chan, p 144)

"People who are obsessed with God have an intimate relationship with Him. They are nourished by God's Word throughout the day because they know that forty minutes on Sunday is not enough to sustain them for a whole week, especially when they will encounter so many distractions and alternative messages." (Chan, p 145)

"A person who is obsessed with Jesus is more concerned with his or her character than comfort. Obsessed people know that true joy doesn't depend on circumstances or environment; it is a gift that must be chosen and cultivated, a gift that ultimately comes from God (Jams 1:2-4). (Chan, p 146)

"A person who is obsessed with Jesus knows that the best thing he can do is faithful to his Savior in every aspect of his life continually saying 'Thank You!' to God. An obsessed person knows there can never be intimacy if he is always trying to pay God back or work hard enough to be worthy. He revels in his role as child and friend of God." (Chan, pp 147-148)

All that being said/quoted... I want to be obsessed with Jesus.

Smiling...

2010-04-21T14:30:00.008-04:00

I do it a lot more these days, smile that is. And I smile for so many reasons. But the most significant, the one that allows me to smile about all the rest is Jesus. I'm so thankful I can see His light and truth. I was so shielded from it for so long. God is good. I forgot that or maybe just wasn't sure of it. But He's is slowly but surely showing me. It's good. Really good.

I saw the end of a rainbow on my way home from Julie's wedding last month. What a great reminder of His promises.

From Lexington Rd Between Athens and Augusta.

Insert Title Here

2010-04-19T10:17:00.000-04:00

Don't really know what I'm going to write 4 hours before my 4th pharm test (typical)... but I feel like a lot is going on.
*Class for spring semester is over April 30th. That will feel good. But then we start right back up again May 17th. It'll be good to get a couple weeks off though.
*Amanda and Jimmy find out the sex of there babe on April 28th. SOOO excited... I'm still thinking boy. But I have a 50% chance of being wrong... so hmm.... just gonna go with whatever happens :)
*I'm really enjoying Augusta and my friends here. This is such an improvement from last semester... SUCH an improvement. For those of you that know me fairly well, you know this has been a HUGE struggle (along with everything else that was going on last year) for me. But I am learning to have faith, slowly but surely, and I AM thankful. Regardless of how much I'm enjoying Augusta, I wish I could have coffee each week with all my friends in Athens too... It's becoming bitter:sweet (which is much better than just bitter :) )
*On other news: Here some pics from Julie and Rob's wedding a month back... It was an AMAZING weekend and words can't even begin to describe what I experience. I love them sooo much! I'm their sister.... That's why I get to be in the middle :)

Our family!

best friends

*My roommate LAURYL got engaged a few weeks ago! SO FUN! I need to get a pic of her and that ring ASAP!! But here's a pic of us.

Well... I guess that's it for right now.... It was a mini-study break for me... haha.

PEACE!

Whew... a lot going on

2010-02-27T13:18:00.005-05:00

I hate that I never make time to update. Boo. But I always seem to find time when studying for a test... or two. And that's what's going on today. I'm on lockdown with studying for these two tests on Monday. Normally I've been doing just fine on my tests, etc. But a couple weeks ago I BOMBED pharmacology. And when I say "bombed" I mean that. Like didn't pass. I'm really a much better student than that. So... I'm trying to work my butt off to get back to where I need to be. Currently I'm standing a little under a "B" in the class... which means I need to pick it up and keep it up. Enough about school.

Augusta is carrying along just fine. I have been getting more involved with THE WELL and enjoying it. I love the people there. I've been talking to a lot of friends both at The Well and in my bible/book study about different theology. A goal is to research different questions I might have, but that's so hard when I've got 4 different classes and two different clinicals. It's a rough life... no, I'm enjoying staying busy. It keeps me grounded, and we all know that's a really good thing.

In other news, it sucks that yet another earthquake happened. This occurred in Chili this time. And now, there's tsunami warnings for several areas on the west coast. Not good.

I guess that's a little update for now (during my study break)... Always try to stay more update... but don't get the chance. I think I'll upload some pics as well. Enjoy!

Okay this is my family and some of the significant others at the coca cola-museum, back row from left to right Isaac and girlfriend Sydney. Mom. Ronni (David's girlfriend), coca-cola bear (recent member), Alaina, and David. Bottom row from left to right Amanda, me and her hubby Jimmy.

AND here we're in ATLANTA with the future MOMMY and DADDY!!! Woohoo... Amanda's about 9 and 1/2 weeks pregnant. SOOO excited!! First niece/nephew. I'm guessing boy... but WHO KNOWS!!

AND Julie's sister/my friends are pregnant too!! Julie and I will be aunts around the same time. Best friends and aunts. SO fun.

Julie and Rob get married in 13 days!! Yes! Can't wait for that beautiful celebration.

Okay, now random: Recent dinners with my roomies.

Here we have poppy seed chicken.

And here we have a delish dish that I made up. Chicken cooked with onion powder and rosemarry and then added Red wine. Veggies cooked separately in olive oil. Then added... So tastey. Would be even better on a pasta. mmmmmmmmm....

And here are some of my best friends in Athens. Julie, Caitlin, and I. I love these girls so much. We're moving to a foreign country together. Rob included. And Caitlin and I will share a World Map Shower curtain.

Just a few fun things in life... OTHER THAN school :)

OH AND you should really by Andrew Belle's Album "The Ladder" HERE for only $5.99. So worth it.

Much Love, PEACE!

thoughts

2010-01-10T22:34:00.000-05:00

Currently, I got a lot of 'em, thoughts that is. Be back to update soon.

P.S. I hate this template. I need some web page design help.

Peace.

Well...

2009-09-20T21:59:00.005-04:00

So, once again I find myself writing a blog because I'm procrastinating. School isn't too bad. Just time consuming. Bleh. BUT, I really enjoy it.... like a lot. We had our first tests (and yes TESTS, plural) on Monday, last week. I did pretty good for me :) Only by God's grace... seriously. Ha. Hopefully I will only improve. We'll see.

Life in Augusta is fine. Though I seem to really enjoy it, I feel like something is missing and I'm not sure what that is. I do feel like God is teaching me a lot about my pride, however. I've got a lot of it. GET OVER IT. That's me talking to me. My pride has really hindered different conversations or whatever. Definitely not enjoyable. I'm excited to be surrounded by some great people here. I know God is using them to mold and shape me.

What else? Oh, I've seen a couple great concerts lately. My absolute favorite Kate Havnevik came to Atlanta for the first time. She opened with Unicorn Kid for Owl City. It was a fun/great show. I helped sell her merchandise and got to hang a bit with her and Oli (Unicorn Kid). They were so much fun.

Kate and I

Unicorn Kid and I (or Oli and I)

Then, this past Friday I saw the Avett Brothers. They were sooo good. It was a fun show.

Um... Wednedsay I get to go see INGRID MICHAELSON!!! So excited for this. SO excited ;)

I guess that's it for now with my updates. I'm super tired but must get some work done :(

Peace out. I hope someone is enjoying this update.

Life is a fountain?

2009-09-09T00:24:00.001-04:00

I sat at a fountain today... I just wanted to run into it and forget my worries. But I was too scared. Too afraid to get wet. I didn't want to deal with the ride home or the walking around in wet clothes. I was afraid. And because of that fear, I missed out on the fun of running into the fountain. Is that like life? Do we miss out on things because we're scared? And we don't want to deal with the tough things? Uh, get over it. Run in.

P.S.

2009-08-30T21:55:00.001-04:00

I'm working on my blog.... Help would be greatly appreciated :)

What Up! From AUGUSTA

2009-08-30T18:16:00.012-04:00

So sorry It's taken me so long to post. I've moved to Augusta safe and sound. I like it a lot. The Medical Community is awesome. I love my Class and I LOVE my roommates. They are all so great. Class is hard but I really enjoy it. I do need more diligence in my studies, however. Ahh.. it will happen. :)

Anyways, some things to note: I've gone to The Well a couple times and I've really enjoyed it. I'm praying about if this is where God wants me to be for the next 15 months. So pray too :) It's hard b/c I want to compare everything to my home church, Christ Community in Watkinsville. But I can't do that (although The Well is very similar). I just want to be where I need to be... and I NEED to be in Commmunity.

Okay, well some other facts in no particular category or order:

1. I can take your vitals.... and I know you want me to. :)

2. I can check landmarks in you ear canal... at the Tympanic Membrane. ha.

3. I can bake some mean Banana Nut Bread.

4. Ashley Buchan is due any second now.

5. Rachel's been married about 3 weeks now.

6. I miss my friends and family.

7. Life is a challenge. I can be such a hypocrite... But I won't quite because of my mistakes... Jesus died for those.
8. There has been a great Thunder Storm today.
9. The Avett Brothers are coming to Augusta for The Westobou Festival.
10. I am so blessed and don't even recognize it. Shame.

Random... but true.

k, I will post some pictures of my life here in Augusta.

2009-07-08T01:34:00.005-04:00

I'm so bummed that I can't be more of a blogger. I think it's so cool that people update all the time... and that they have cool templates :( (jessica). Well, I am who I am and will blog when I blog. Today/night, it will be short. I just realized I'm behind on soo much. One thing is that I'm moving to Augusta, NOT Macon. The school (MCG) and the program (CNL) are no different, just location. I've known this for some time but have failed to mention it. I'm living with Christy Brewer... some of you know her, so I thought I'd mention her. I'm REALLY excited, but nervous too. I've got a lot to do for the upcoming year... and I'm so not there. :(

Also, I went on a cruise to the Bahamas with my family. It was a gift from my brother-in-law, Jimmy. And it was much needed as we all have been through some hard times.

Antique pic of the fam taking a break at Atlantis.

Another Atlantis pic

Pulling up to the beach in Nassau for our excursion: swimming with the sting rays. :)

The sisters at formal night

CoCo Kay... small, beautiful island owned by Royal Carribean. The water was sooo Blue.

Okay, so I think this is enough for now. I'm pumped and bummed about many a things... But my trust shall be in the Lord. NIGHT!

2009-06-25T22:14:00.003-04:00

Falling Whistles, have you heard of this organization? Please go here. Read "story." It's so... well, just read it.

Did you read it? I've heard about this organization for a while but never read up on it. Take the 10 minutes to read the story. Now. No, stop reading this and go read that. You'll be shocked, then mad, and then, hopefully, willing to do something. Pass it on. Tell... Be the change.

Here's a way you can help raise awareness:Falling Whistles Bike Tour
3 guys trying to get the word out by doing this bike tour. You can help them raise awareness by sending them different things. It's should be on this blog but please also check out their FB page. Guys, if we aren't doing anything then who is? Let's not just let this one pass us by.

We have it so good in the States. Though my family would probably disagree, I don't like to argue. But If you disagree with the former statement, I'll be happy to argue with you. Bring it on. I don't care where you come from (Maybe with the exception of New Orleans), we have it soo good.

Let's use some of our freedom, what little money we think we may or may not have, and what little time we think you have, and DOOO something. Anyone?

Exciting

2009-05-16T16:28:00.003-04:00

There are so many exciting things going on right now.... I don't even know where to begin. But I will in a few days, begin that is. Soon.

Twitter...

2009-05-07T12:18:00.000-04:00

I think I may link this up to my twitter... bad idea?

I GOT IN!

2009-05-07T05:44:00.003-04:00

I failed to mention that Monday I found out I got in to the CNL program at MCG in Macon. There's so much I want to say about this... mostly PRAISE GOD... I'm so thankful!!! and also I'm SOOOOOO EXCITED!! But, I'm supposed to be studying for my last final at the University of Georgia in 2 hours. SO.... i'll comment further later = )

2009-05-01T14:39:00.001-04:00

wait list

2009-05-01T12:29:00.001-04:00

Just FYI, found out yesterday I'm on the waiting list for the CNL program at MCG... please pray! thanks!

2009-04-30T08:37:00.011-04:00

So, there has been a lot going on and I have procrastinated enough... when it comes to blogging, anyway.... Although, now I'm procrastinating with school work because I'm blogging. Oh well :)

Anyways, some things:
I'm graduating from the University of Georgia MAY 9th. WOW. I can't believe it's just about over. Honestly, I know this is a great accomplishment and people are proud, but... I don't know. I'm a bit sad. This is probably because I don't know what the next step is.

There are/were a few things I was waiting on. One of them was Teach For America. This is a great organization and also very selective in the selection process. Is that redundant? After going through all the rounds, I found out I did not receive and offer to teach with them. I was bummed. In fact, I kind of sad most of that evening. BUT, Straight up: God has something better for me. And this I MUST cling too.

Another option, one in fact that has been on my heart since August 2007, is to go to nursing school. I had and interview with the Medical College of Georgia. Monday, the 20th. This is specifically for the Clinical Nurse Leader Program. I'm supposed to find out Mid-may, although I think I could find out sooner if I called them up, but I'm a little hesitant to do this. We'll see what happens.

Also, I've been praying with a lot of men and women regarding our ministry with the homeless. There is a house that we have been praying over and fixing up in hopes that it would become an open home for ministry opportunity. It's really exciting and I'm so blessed to be a part of it. In fact, I wish I would have been more involved the past few months. I know that I've been building relationships with some of the homeless, but I wish I had been praying more with the other folks in the ministry that were doing the same. More to come from this ministry, and ways to get involved. :)

My hope for this next year is that I would be able to stay in Athens. I don't know if this will happen, BUT I'm trusting that whatever happens is the Lord's WILL, which also means that it is the Lord's BEST. HOW EXCITING! Whatever He has for me is good. SOOO good. :)

What else? Hmm... This is random, or not, but I just want to say what I love:
1. That I have an eternal Father who loves me beyond my understanding...
2. My family... beautiful, wonderful, CRAZY, kind (at times :)) fun, close... so close.

3. MY ROOMMATES! This year has been one of the hardest and best years at college... and I must thank my roommates for both of these aspects :) haha... well, not so much "hardest" from them. In fact, it's been fairly easy living with these 5 other women. Mostly because they know the Lord... Yes in fact, it is because we all know the Lord that we have been able to get along, etc. So thank you my lovely 5: (in order of appearance in pic) Caitlin, Christine, Lindsey, Ju and Stephanie [ :( not pictured] I will miss you all so much this next year. I'm getting a bit emotional. Uhhhh....

4. My friends... so this is a category much like my roomie one, because although I have not lived with you, you have impacted me so much. You know who you are. I love you all.
5. My CHURCH! oh my church :) Christ Community Church, we are the body.
6. The kids at Timothy Road where I work in the After School Program (ASP) This is a love/frustrated relationship. But the Love outweighs the frustration :)

7. Caribou Coffee... I always forget how much I love this place until I come home. There's not one in Athens. Sad. But I love it for so many reasons. One is there Sourcing of coffee. FAIR TRADE among other things.... Anyways, always fresh and they give FREE REFILLS... yeah Athens, you know you want one.

Well, I'm sure I love much more... in fact I know I do. BUT, this is enough for now. :)
Will hopefully update again soon. Enjoy!

Oh, a little snippet from the Tim Keller Galations study I'm doing. It's a good word: (GAL4:3, 8-9) "But here Paul again makes his radical claim that overt pagan idolatry and Biblically ethical moralism are basically the same thing."

FAMILY

2009-04-16T23:36:00.005-04:00

I would like to say that my family came to ATHENS, GA for EASTER. Awesomeness. I love them. A LOT. Here's some pics. :)
This is My Family: Alaina(sister), Amanda (sister), Jimmy (bro-in-law), me, my mom and Isaac (bro).

What? So we like to have fun. haha

Isaac. HILarious.

I will say, that with all the chaos of the past 6 months, God has only brought us closer together. And I remember this verse, "Rejoice in the Lord, always. Again, I say rejoice." Phil 4:4
Only through Christ has this been a verse that we can express. I am rejoicing... it's hard. Sometimes it's few and far in between. But I rejoice.

I know

2009-04-16T23:34:00.001-04:00

I'm not really sure if anybody actually reads this, regardless I need to update more. I think i've been hesitant b/c there is A LOT going on and I'm not sure if I'm ready to announce or say anything yet. Nonetheless, my efforts to update more will resume. Thanks for watching/playing/reading... w/e.

much love to those who do read this.
GOAL: to be like Jessica Willis... who updates like nobody's business.

Twitter...

2009-04-07T20:38:00.001-04:00

I really want this to work... but it's not updating from my phone. BLAH.

GOODNESS

2009-03-16T01:35:00.002-04:00

Really the Lord has been so good. I'm so thankful for truth, grace, hope and joy... which is really CHRIST who I'm thankful for. I will write so much more. But it's late now.

We just had Spring Break in New Orleans, LA. Wow. So much to process. God give me the time, discipline and understanding to do so.

joy

2009-02-20T23:06:00.001-05:00

There is hope; there is joy. Praise God.

2009-02-10T23:19:00.002-05:00

I can't believe I never put this picture up. It should be one of those pics that gets passed around on chain emails with the title, "Cutest Picture" or "Funniest Picture" haha. JK. But you have to admit, this is a pretty sweet picture to have witnessed and then taken myself. We were on the road in Daytona, FL on Beach Project and this guy was just in front of us. It's was awesome.

From SBP '07

This picture is owned by Moi (me), if you would like to use it... please ask. :) Unless I know you personally of course... haha

Oh yeah

2009-02-04T22:52:00.004-05:00

My friends Rachel and Tom just got engaged. They are such a beautiful couple and such a great picture of God's love. I love them.

Powerful

2009-02-04T22:49:00.002-05:00

This is such an incredible song and the story behind it is even more incredible. Listen, watch, it's worth it.

And then there's Kim Walker's version. What a strong voice. :)

follow up

2009-02-04T12:10:00.002-05:00

Well, The concert was amazing and my friends, and I met HIM!!! awesome! It was an interesting encounter. :) He was very humble and kind! Until next time... haha

Today

2009-01-30T12:02:00.004-05:00

I'm going to a concert at the Georgia Theater tonight: JOSHUA RADIN. He's so awesome. Listen to his stuff. It's really Beautiful.

Also performing... in fact I believe she's headlining, is DAR WILLIAMS. Wonderful as well... with Jesse Harris.

Athens PBJs

2009-01-22T23:17:00.002-05:00

Go to the Athens PBJs web page.... read all about it. This is something I'm so excited about. God is doing such amazing things in this ministry... I felt like the Lord was even showing me how I need to become more committed to this group.... I'm so thankful.

Grey

2009-01-21T10:46:00.002-05:00

I'm getting grey hair. Seriously. I noticed like a million strands... what to do? I pulled a few. Thought I would save them in a little box. "Elisa's collection of grey hair starting from 23 years old." But I thought that would be a little strange so I just threw them away. Ha. My stressful life. What's a girl to do! No, it's all good... sort of. I kind of wish I were blonde because you wouldn't notice the grey/silver hair as much. OH WELL! I think it'll grow on me... no pun intended.

Chivalry

2009-01-20T21:06:00.001-05:00

Where did chivalry go? Today on the bus, as a boy was sitting down, he looked up, saw me, and said, "Do you want to sit down?" And proceeded to get up and move so I could sit. It was so great. But where did this attitude go?

2009-01-19T21:10:00.002-05:00

I found this video along time ago and fell in love. I had another encounter with it today... I miss africa.

Bono

2009-01-19T19:11:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to say, that I love Bono. That's all thank you.

GRE

2009-01-19T13:26:00.001-05:00

I know I've been MIA... I'm currently studying for the GRE. So please pray for that. I'm taking it friday at 12pm. Thanks!

23

2009-01-03T21:58:00.001-05:00

I'm 23 today... It was a good day until later this evening. Since then my eyes have been full of tears and I can't seem to get over certain things. It's been a hard night. There's still freedom in Christ. I just need to seek Him and find Him.

FREEDOM!

2008-12-31T23:06:00.002-05:00

This weekend was the New Years Conference with Campus Outreach in Nashville, Tennessee. It was awesome. Really hard but awesome all at the same time. I feel such freedom in Christ. I've seen a lot of chains broken and I've felt them lifted. I'm so thankful that Christ is who He said He was and that He does redeem us. I'm in a different place now than I have in the past few weeks, even really the past few months. I pray that my heart will run so hard after the Lord that I see nothing but Him. I don't want ANY distractions. I just want to know Him more. Gosh. I'm in love. It feels Good. Especially to know that my heart will NEVER be Broken by HIM! Praise GOD!

Please always feel free to email me or leave comments!

Why?

2008-12-17T20:03:00.002-05:00

My heart is broken, and I know mine isn't the only one. I freaking hate this. So much. So very much. I don't understand why this has happened?

Truth

2008-12-16T11:30:00.002-05:00

This is my prayer for my family...

God of All Comfort

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too. If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; and if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which you experience when you patiently endure the same sufferings that we suffer. Our hope for you is unshaken, for we know that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in our comfort.

For we do not want you to be ignorant, brothers, of the affliction we experienced in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead. He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will deliver us again. You also must help us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many."

2 corinthians 13-11

And my prayer for him

"I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleannesses, and from all your idols I will cleanse you. And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules. You shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers, and you shall be my people, and I will be your God. And I will deliver you from all your uncleannesses."

Ezekiel 36:25-29a

Blow to the stomach

2008-12-13T22:27:00.002-05:00

This has been a rough few days... My family and I need so much prayer... so pray. Thank you.

Elisa

Thought

2008-12-10T19:17:00.001-05:00

I should totally be studying.... But I'm lacking motivation. my friend asked me today, "DO you even want to go to nursing school?"
I sure hope so.

Thanksgiving Continu'd

2008-11-28T11:02:00.004-05:00

WhirlyBall... Have you ever done it??? Ha... it's a family tradition. Every two years all of my Dad's side comes down from Jersey or up from FL for Thanksgiving and then on Friday we play this. It's fun... there's always sooo many people from my family at this time. We have to play like 4 different games to give everybody a fair chance at playing. I love it. My mom being from Cali and Dad from NY makes it hard to see the WHOLE family often. But every two years we get to do this. It's so fun. After WhirlyBallwe go back to my Dad's Cousin's place in Suwanee and we go crazy with telling stories of my Crazy Grandpa Vic or we sing under the Gazebo around the little kettle fire or we play music in the downstairs entertainment room or we just smoke cigars, drink, and laugh. I love my family. Too bad it only happens every two years. I think I'll try and video tonight some of the craziness... or at least capture some of the moments.

But FIRST, My immediate family gets our Christmas Tree at Berry Patch Farms. This has been our tradition for years and years. This year though, It'll just be the women. Jimmy, Amanda's husband, will be at work. David and Isaac are in California :( It'll be great bonding time though. Yay.

And then TOMORROW my sisters and I are going to our first UGA vs. GT football game. I am a student at the University of Georgia but I've never actually gone to one of THESE infamous games. It's just been too close to the holidays. But, since this is my last year I thought I'd live it up. AND I really wanted Amanda and Alaina to enjoy a game. They've never been to ANY.

We're real excited!! yay!

Hope all of you are having a great Holiday break!

Artist

2008-11-27T23:43:00.001-05:00

I just ran across this. Wow. Incredible.

Production

2008-11-26T08:14:00.003-05:00

Sooo, I'm home and trying to be productive. I got up early this morning to take my mom to work. We left the house at 6 AM. wow. It wasn't that early though. Ha. Maybe because I slept until 2pm yesterday? And I'm pretty sure I went to be before 1 AM that night... so I got plenty of sleep. Anyhow. I'm missing Athens. How funny. Maybe it's the small town that I miss. Because clearly my town is not small anymore. It's depressing. although, I never really stayed within the city limits of Canton anyway. But still.

Anyway, I'm going off on a tangent. SOOO, I'm getting some much needed school work done. Or at least it's much needed because I don't want to have to do it this weekend. I don't want to be stressed out. Although, come finals week, I know I will not be able to avoid it. Ahh. Oh well, two weeks left. That's all. WOW, that's all? Too bad my hardest classes' finals are on the same day. WOW, that sux.

Today's the last day to vote in advance or ask for an absentee ballot for the Chamliss/Martin race. You can also vote Dec 2. Listen, I'm new in the political world. AND I pretty much hate mainstream anything, but the fact is I'm voting for Chambliss. Besides being in agreement with more of what he supports vs. Martin, the Checks and Balances ideal is disappearing in the upcoming administration; this is not good. Although, I was holding out for the President Elect's Bipartisan Cabinet which he had suggested before the election, that is unlikely to happen now. Centurists... yes, good. But not Bipartisan. Although, no one has been officially declared, it's likely that the people in the running will take the prize. :( It'll be okay, though. It's not smart, but it's okay. God's in control.

I'm reading Twilight. I gave in. My sister told me about it months ago. I was like, "yeah, I really want to read it." But I never did. My roommie read most of the series, and my neighbor, and everyone else I know. But I didn't. But THEN, I saw the movie (watch the trailer) with my sisters and mom a few days ago, and I think I'm kind of obsessed now. Okay, not really. But maybe. Ha. I read almost a hundred pages last night, but I had to go to bed. It's good. Read it. I mean if you want to. I'm really into fantasy stories/sci-fi... I think that's what they're called.

For Example:
The Lord of the Rings
X-men
Pan's Labyrinth
Underworld
Spiderman
Batman

I probably could go on, but no sense in that. I mean, i think it's just fun when new exciting things come out.

So there.

ha... I'm going to see my adopted grandparents today. I can't wait. They're lovely.

Home

2008-11-23T23:04:00.003-05:00

Just got home Friday night... Got to see my little bro's wrestling match... And then see him off to California on Saturday. he's spending the Thanksgiving holidays with David (our big brother) and Allie (sister-in-law), and I'm sure he'll see my aunt, uncle, and cousins that are out there too. It's good that he's getting a chance to get out there... but I miss my family not all being together :( oh well... I'm excited about Thanksgiving and then comes CHRISTMAS!!! I always celebrate prematurely and I don't care... haha.

Much love to you at the Holidays!

ONE

2008-11-21T10:28:00.002-05:00

My church has a podcasts of the sermons and here's a sermon called one By Jared Bryant that I missed when I was at the GA/FL game...

So good...

If you have some time... listen to it.

"With My Own Two Hands"

2008-11-07T10:07:00.003-05:00

This song is pretty much how I feel about everything:

I can change the world
With my own two hands
Make it a better place
With my own two hands
Make it a kinder place
With my own two hands
With my own
With my own two hands
I can make peace on earth
With my own two hands
I can clean up the earth
With my own two hands
I can reach out to you
With my own two hands
With my own
With my own two hands
I'm going to make it a brighter place
With my own two hands
I'm going to make it a safer place
With my own two hands
I'm going to help the human race
With my own two hands
With my own
With my own two hands
I can hold you
With my own two hands
I can comfort you
With my own two hands
But you've got to use
Use your own two hands
Use your own
Use your own two hands
With our own
With our own two hands
With my own
With my own two hands

There's a couple versions. Here's Ben Harper's ... he wrote it. But I actually prefer, only because I'm more chill in general, his duet with Jack Johnson. But both portray the same meaning, just with different sounds! Anyway, I love it. "I can do all things through christ who strengthens me." (phil 4:13) So, let's do it. I'm a people lover, love giver, friend maker... all things through Christ. Make a difference. It matters. Change the world... Putting broken things back together!

Awesomeness

2008-10-26T20:49:00.002-04:00

I was reading 1 Timothy 6 today... It was filled with the title of this blog... I'm encouraged...

Also, Psalm 62...

Aaron Keys wrote a song titled this... Again AWESOMENESS!

Goodness

2008-10-25T11:59:00.002-04:00

Things are going good. God is good. It's always nice to be reminded. HA. I love my friends. I love my family. I love my enemies? Do I? I would like to think so. You can pray for that. Um... I don't have a ton to say except I never have anything interesting to post. Suggestions?

Maybe this is good: In regards to next year, I'm applying to MCG and MTW . And that's all I know for next year. I know I want to go to nursing school but I would most likely take a year off.... BUT, I say that with some hesitation and I'm not sure why. You can pray for that too... THANKS

HA

Oh, I just discovered Failblog. It's crazy...

Okay, well... PEace YO

Thanks

2008-10-20T19:05:00.001-04:00

Thanks for the prayer yall!!!!
Things are better... haha.

Also, fun stuff... Go here: TheNotWedding

Please pray... that's all...

2008-10-17T20:57:00.001-04:00

Late

2008-10-15T01:35:00.003-04:00

So, I'm supposed to be studying right now... I'm going home for my the birthday of my little sister, Alaina... so I'm trying to get just about all my work done so I can enjoy home. But, as I'm distracted by the internet... i find daytrotter ! Oh my goodness how have I not seen this? There's a ton of artists (newish) that you may or may not have heard of that record with daytrotter. I don't like all the artists... but for the ones I do like (i.e. Meiko and Ingrid Micaelson) there are free downloads! It's super fun. Check it out if you're into indie music. There's not any mainstream on there... unless Of Montreal is mainstream to you... but really that's kind of the only name band I saw. Anyway, Have fun! PEACE!

ASP

2008-10-13T18:59:00.002-04:00

I work at an after school program... I love it. But today I had Pre-k... in other words, 4 year olds. It is ridiculous what kids are learning these days. One of the little girls flipped the bird at a fellow pre-k-er. 4 YEARS OLD. it makes me so sad. I love these kids, but it is so hard to see them already sooo corrupted. Please pray for this generation (and mine).

Okay... that was a rant.

I like Sara Bareilles

2008-10-10T10:53:00.003-04:00

Something to consider.... Please go here...

Will Boyd

THIS IS NOT MY YEAR...

2008-10-06T19:39:00.002-04:00

Hard week

2008-10-04T17:41:00.003-04:00

It's been a long time coming. I've been stressed and overwhelmed since this test... OH WELL! the week is over and God is still good. The things that have happened this past week or so are not eternally important, however I know they're slightly important. ANYHOW... on a side not our Linguistics class is graded on a scale of a case by case basis. So, despite leaving a whole section blank, I made slightly below the average. I was pretty okay with this. Had I got even 10 of the 20 or so points offered on that section, I would have made above average. So, I know I can do better... I just have to manage my time. WOW, there's a life statement.

My roommate and I were talking about the great procrastinator that I am. As in, I procrastinate more than I care to think about. And guess what? I HATE IT! I'm so sick of it. Where's the discipline? That's why my life has been so crazy this past week (really month).

I saw discipline so very clearly in S. Africa. It's not a matter of where you are, though. I know this. But it's hard not to reminisce all the time.

Beautiful Day, Sad Test

2008-09-23T15:56:00.002-04:00

Today I had a test in linguistics... I didn't finish the test. This has never been the norm for me. EVER... so I was really sad. But when I put it into the perspective of eternity... it's just not that big of a deal. It really isn't. But it's so hard to believe. Anyway... It's a beautiful day today. The wind is blowing and the sun is shining. I'm going to feel good!

Crazy Life

2008-09-21T23:20:00.001-04:00

Things are changing a lot. It's like I'm a pond and little rocks are being thrown to cause ripple that are affecting everything. I like it and don't like it. It's different. I still can't fully express it.

athens

2008-09-07T18:06:00.002-04:00

Today I went with some like-minded people downtown to pass out sandwiches. A group of us went to N. Avenue under the bridge where some of the homeless stay. We just spent some time talking with and getting to know our new friends. I wasn't emotionally moved really, except when Clarence, one of the men who stayed there, shared the story of how his son died. Talking to him was just like talking to anyone else. But why have I been so blind for so long. I went to D.C. a few years back to help with the homeless for a week. It was a pretty "cool" experience, but what does that even mean? I don't know. I do know that I want to help people more. I want to use what I have to make a difference. I want to be like Christ...

World Rocked

2008-08-29T21:48:00.003-04:00

Let's just say my world is being rocked right now... ROCKED. I have had a really dramatic time of adjustment back to the States... and I haven't really even realized it until this past week. Which is weird because I've been home for 2 months now. My world has definitely changed. And I believe God is revealing sooo much to me. It's not clear right now. I don't know what the next step is. I don't even know how to put my sentences together to make sense. I just know there is a change... and it's continuing to come. I say, "Bring it on." I may not be ready for it, but God is always prepared. If He's with me, and that I know He is, then "bring it on."

Back in Athens

2008-08-17T15:25:00.002-04:00

First off, I just wanted to say that I am so sorry that I have not gotten a newsletter out to all of you. I have been overwhelmed with a million and one things.... but really there's no excuse at this point. So, I'm sorry....

I am now back in Athens and have the greatest roommates and set up in town. Lindsey, my roommate in South Africa, felt God calling her to stay in Athens. she got a job the week we got back from S.Africa and moved in with ME!!!! It's really such a blessing in so many ways.

I begin school tomorrow. I am taking two 4 hour science classes... they will be intense, I'm sure. But hopefully things will continue going in the right direction.

I will give you all a better update soon (in the mail!)

Elisa

video links

2008-07-25T11:39:00.002-04:00

Here is another video from the trip!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KPqelOUSSXQ

I'm home

2008-07-25T11:26:00.002-04:00

I just wanted to give a quick blog update that I'm home! I've been home for a few weeks now... I guess almost a month... sorry guys for not posting. I really have been trying to recover from the everything. 10 days after we got back we headed to Daytona to present what we did to the Summer Beach Project(Christian summer training camp for college students.) That was a really great trip. We were able to talk with other Christians about what we did and encourage them to pray about going next year... which I think should be the case for anyone that has the opportunity to go. I'm trying to compile my thoughts for a newsletter, so that should be out soon. Hopefully I will get to see some of you very soon. Please call me, send me an email, or leave a comment. I would love to catch up. Thanks so much for all your prayers and support. It was felt and so needed! Please continue to pray for my upper body (back, neck, and head) injuries from the wreck. I am still in pain. Thanks you guys!! much love!

crazy days

2008-06-05T03:58:00.010-04:00

So I realize that everything is always crazy here. Especially the days that I update. THURSDAYS! I really dread this day becuase it's crunch time for everything. Today we get to use the internet. As in we pay some mulah and only have an hour or so to get EVERYTHING done. It's a little stressful. BUT today has been encouraging because some needed information on my end was addressed. So anything that I may have been stressed about that is within the states is getting handled. YAY.

Please Check out this video Kirk made of our trip thusfar:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXvPMX5-WO4

Okay,I wanted to tell you all that spiritually things have been really wonderful here. I don't know if any recall (or can look back at previous blogs to see) that spiritually, and really all around, last semester was ROUGH! But being here has been such a beautiful time of rekindling my relationship with the Lord. He is good. I remember when JP (Jessica Prater)[soon to be JW-J DUBBS! TOMORROW- Congratulations my beautiful friend!] had told me about how she never knew FAITH until she came to south africa. I can totally aggree! I have learned so much about my relationship with Him. And being here has just been so amazing. Seeing God move in this nation and my heart is thrilling.

Last week we went to a refugee camp to volunteer. It was really enlightning to go. it made me think about the future. But everything here is. To see these people and children that had to flee there own country, and then have to stay in camps to keep from persecution in SA... gosh it's just rough. Children without shoes. Men begging for trousers. It's hard. I wish I had pictures but I forgot my camera :( So please check out the CCP blog to see some pics.

On a lighter note. We thought our kumbi broke down (for a third time) and so we had one crazy night of trying to jump start it. ]

It was somewhat humorous but then VERY funny when we realized we just had to immobolize it (a security precaution here in SA) and the car was fine.

Another pic of the city

Wonderfulness

2008-05-29T04:01:00.009-04:00

Saturday we got to go to the Lion and Rhino park. It was really amazing. Here are some pictures for your enjoyment. ONly a few... it was pretty sweet. I tried to get pics of "our favorite animals" growing up as a kid. Isaac=rhinos (i def. got some pics but didn't have it with me when I posted), Alaina's=lions, me=white tigers, Amanda=elephants, david=Gorrilas and mom=pandas. Well, hence the name of the park, those were the pics that I got. love you guys..

Also, It was Amber's (my wonderful partner on campus) birthday on Tuesday.

So a bunch of the "ciders" got together and made her a cake to celebrate. It was a lot of fun. Here are some pics:

A cool thing that did happen is at church on Sunday, they just felt the Holy Spirit moving toward healing. They shared a couple testimonies and then asked those who felt lead to come up and receive prayer. Well, considering my last entry, you know I went up. It was soooo cool. A man and woman prayed over me (one in tongues and one translating) I totally felt the Spirit. It was AMAZING. When they were done, the woman (Juliette) stopped me from leaving straight away and said, “Now when we were praying for you I felt a very heavy anointing for you. Everyone’s anointed, but this was different. I don’t get that every time I pray over someone. I don’t know if you’re one leadership or what, but you need to know that you are very anointed.” Now, that’s not really quote unquote but that’s what I remember. It was so cool; we both had tears in our eyes.

Well, I really really miss you guys… especially just chatting with you all. Please send me an email with updates. I truly love that!

Everything is Good

2008-05-24T03:31:00.006-04:00

some of us

First off, I'm fine here in South africa. The violence has to do with xenophobia.... basically where the SA's are killing anyone not from here. (but americans are probably okay.) It's the foreign nationals that are darker then the SA's and seeking refuge in SA. Some people are getting upset because they feel like the foreignors are taking their jobs. It's ridiculous and we're praying that it would pass. Know that everyone here is okay.

my roommate and I

So, I had a pretty crazy and wonderful week all at the same time. I got into some pretty cool conversations with some of the ciders. I love how open and honest we’ve been with one another. The relationships are so real so fast. It’s just amazing. One girl become a Christian in Sunny Side this week! How awesome is that! It’s so amazing to see God work. Knowing that it has nothing to do with us and everything to do with Him allows so much freedom. I’ll get stressed about meeting with someone or answering questions and then I just remember that it’s not up to me. There’s only so much I can do.

The crazy part of this week just has to do with still figuring out the schedule and how to best utilize my time here. There are some days when I feel like a rock star with my time and then there are other days when I feel like a complete failure. But God is good.

Sunsetting over joburg

As I was reminded by the lovely Mrs. Cornwell about my back, I see that I have failed to mention anything about it. It’s not good, but I’m pulling through. Every morning I wake up with pain in my upper body (head, neck, and back) and every night go to bed feeling sore. This can and is definitely frustrating. Wedneday, when Basitsanna (a dear friend and "Cider") asked me how my back was, I totally broke down. Though I wasn't embarrassed, I almost felt ashamed about my injury. I just hate that it's not getting better and I don't want people to feel sorry for me. But Lindsey (my roommate here) reminded me that this is all apart of life…

On a brighter note, we are getting to go to a lion and rhino game park today. I think our team is looking forward to it. It just seems like a lot sometimes, so it’s probably hard to be super excited all the time about our weekend excursions. It’ll be great.

I definitely want to share more about what’s going on here, but as I sit to write the blog my mind seems to draw a blank at what you all would want to hear/see. Please leave some comments/questions to let me know.

Ruth and I

The neighborhood next to ours to the right.... and a most dangerous neighborhood to the left (hillbrow)

I hope all is well with you all. Please pray for me healing and the ministry here at Wits.

XOXO

2nd post... end of first week.

2008-05-17T05:51:00.003-04:00

Some of the team:

And we’ve been here just over a week now. And I’ll tell you what, I’m exhausted. But I can’t express how much I love it here. It’s really has been so incredible and we just got here. This past week has been our first week on Campus. We each were assigned a partner and then a Res (dorm). Amber and I are in SUNNYSIDE…. They call themselves Ciders. I wonder why?? Ha. But these girls, they are so wonderful. They make Amber and I just smile. We’ve gotten to spend some one on one time with them as well as go to two investigative bible studies. We are in awe of God here.

It is so amazing how fast I’ve gotten to know some of these girls. They are true friends already. I hope to continue to get to know them better. I pray that their hearts will grow toward God as ours do eachothers. I have a new name here. It is Palesa (pronounced “Puh-lay-suh”) which means Beautiful flower. I almost cried when I heard that. These girls really are so lovely… and the boys too; I just don’t know them as well.

Tee and Me

I didn’t think that I would fall in love so fast. I really thought it would take some time. But I’ve definitely fallen. SA is really wonderful. Last night we had a “braai” or cookout at the house of the men on staff with COJ. Over a hundred students were there. We danced like nothing I’ve ever seen before. I wish American cookouts/parties were like this… no one’s shy. It was so awesome. We also had some gooood food. I have not gotten sick yet.

At this point I’m just trying to get to know these girls continually. Pray for genuine friendships and real hearts. I don’t think it has been hard getting to know the girls who are already involved in the ministry… they’re great. But please pray for the new relationships to be had.

Some of the "ciders"

And some side notes.

*Currently we have California weather… no joke. Beautiful dry somewhat hot weather during the day. A chilly weather at night. We hear from the students it’s supposed to get freezing.
*We’ve had 2 Kumbis (big vans) break down on us… the first one when I was practicing driving up a hill…. Mind you stick shift.
*and The girls initiated us... with a fake ceremony.... they acted as though they were doing anscestor worship stuff... a common religion here. It was good. They definitely got us. Picture below.

I’m sure there’s more but that’s it for now.
Love yall,
Elisa
Please check the CCP blog (link on left) for other updates from fellow teammates.

FIRST DAY!!!

2008-05-11T11:18:00.003-04:00

“So,” today is the first day we’ve gotten internet. We got here Thursday… it’s Sunday. What a weird thing to not have internet access 24/7… hahaha. I put “so” in parenthesis because EVERYONE says it in front of their sentences like we say, “um” or “like.” They also say, “is it?” in place of “really?” and it’s cool when you catch one. You would never respond “it is.” You would just say, “yeah.” And for “how are you?” it’s “how’s it?” As most of you know, I love cultures, so of course I’m becoming obsessed with all the different expressions and 11 different official languages spoken here.

Friday was amazing. It was our first full day in Africa. Which is incredible because it seems like we’ve been here forever already. I love the people here so much, they are so cool and fun. Pinkie (speaks africaans), K (speaks Zulu), Cion, Tim, Rob, and Timbwe picked us up from the airport. All but Timbwe are on staff with Campus Outreach Johannesburg (COJ) at the University of Wits, the campus we will be on for the summer. I feel so close to many of the S. Africans already, as well as the staff, and my team here.

We had a leader’s meeting with the student and staff at Wits. It is so amazing to hear the ministry that’s already going on over there. I’m compelled to go eveangelize with them in the “Res hall’” or dorm. They have such passion for Christ that you want it too. Worship was and is amazing as well. No one cares if they can sing or not… there’s just no shame in the gospel here.

Well, I will try my best to update as much as I can. If not, at least some pictures. Please check our blog as well… found under the blog link on the left.

Love yall... I'm seriously rushed with time.

Random blabs

2008-04-27T23:26:00.002-04:00

*Today was a hard day... all around.

*I go to Africa in 9ish days... uhhhh wow.

*I need ANY furniture for my apartment next year (I MEAN ANYTHING: Bed, DESK, night stand, dresser, etc) LET ME KNOW!!!

* I have FOUR finals this week.... and I'm almost done caring. I'm kind of over it. Which isn't a good idea.

*My back hurts :(

*I miss my family:(

*I'm really a happy person most of the time :) I promise. HAHA

*I'm writing a research paper right now... okay, not RIGHT now... but I should be.

*I think I'm going to make my first "C" in the history of all my final grades... 8 semesters at UGA. I think I'm okay with that. Don't I have to be????

*My head hurts.

*I love singing and playing guitar.

*I'm trying to be more open and honest on this thing. (except I won't say what I'm thinking right now...)

*I want to be a nurse so bad. Does GOD want that for me? I don't know. I hope so.

*I think I'm done for now, but that was fun.

dos semanas

2008-04-23T19:59:00.003-04:00

Well.. I feel like I have done very little this past month. I mean, I've done (and still am doing) a TON of school work, but haven't had much of a social life. and i'm not gonna lie. It stinks. I feel like spiritually I've been very dry. I may have already said this... but that's how long it's been going on.

But I know God is still very present in my life. I just wish I would turn to Him and adore Him... and not my stupid school work. It's really frustrating, yet I'm not doing very much about it. It's sad that I feel slightly depressed lately. Yet, I'm so grateful to be alive and a daughter of Christ.

On another note, support is going really well. It is soooo cool to see God working through my friends, family, and people I don't even KNOW! crazy. I'm almost there. I'm at $4701.5, I need $5500!!! yay, sooo close. And I know 3 other people are definitely supporting me. I just don't know that amount yet! God is soo good.

Please pray for my body to heal (and strength physically, mentally, and spiritually), preparation for finals, and for AFRICA!

We leave two weeks from today; I have a physical RE-exam wednesday next week. I'm confident the Doc will say I can go. But we still need to be praying... because I still am hurting here and there.

yikes..

2008-04-11T21:52:00.004-04:00

So I know it's been a while... once again. But the truth is I HAVE NO TIME. I am sooo stressed. School was not easy before, but since my wreck it's been miserable. I've had no time to talk to anyone, it seems. and school again consumes my life. I got one sort-of-extension on one paper. And an extension on one test. But, I still have a text monday and tues (along with a lab practical this tuesday as well.) I think I'm freaking out. How do I stay calm. I want to do well in these classes, but I'm about to have a break down.... ah. okay, that was my vent.

I need prayer.

On a better note, I haven't posted any pictures in a while, so here's some.

My adopted grandparents and I.... I love them.

well... there it goes

2008-04-01T22:53:00.002-04:00

I cannot give details on the blog. But I was in an accident. Call me for details. (or email)

Resolved

2008-03-24T00:39:00.003-04:00

So things have definitely been resolved. And I'm much better.

Well, Having a car has given me a HUGE sense of freedom. But it's definitely not fixing all my time management problems. I still have sooo much on my plate. But it's been really cool to see God work in some areas, and then be convicted when I realize I'm not giving Him other areas. School work for example, I'm not willing to give that to God. WHY NOT???? I was trusting Him with support either. WHY NOT????? I started trusting God and being bold and WOW He is so faithful. People have come onto my team of supporters. There are people praying for me, loving me, encouraging me, and giving money! BLESSINGS. I'm so thankful. I've got about $3000.00 to go. I've raised $2455. I've got to raise $5500. Excuse me, God's raising it. I know this is no big deal to him. If anybody knows anybody that's on board with a mission trip to South Africa, send them my way! God could use them and me in HUGE ways. Love yall!

Rough

2008-03-11T22:22:00.003-04:00

So, this last week was spring break. When I got home the Lord blessed me with an affordable car through my sister and brother-in-law. What a blessing! Overall the week was good; but tonight was ROUGH. I think I went crazy for 30 minutes. I was lost, and I'm still trying to find God's way. I need humility among other things. just pray.

...And it's always been here

2008-02-24T22:13:00.003-05:00

"You struggle to be free, but really you're free to struggle."

This is what my roommate Tatum shared with me when I told her how I felt like I was just struggling to be free. She said she would never forget when her pastor said this. I didn't fully understand it at first. But as I contemplated it I realized the meaning... At least the one it gave me. I was "struggling" so much just to "feel" free. But the truth was and is that I'm ALREADY free. And I'm going to struggle. Struggle with sin, with emotions, with the world... with a LOT. And that's okay. The Lord had set me free that day on the cross, and now I am free. If I'm not struggling through some of those things then that might not be good. There should battle against things of this world. I shouldn't be okay with those things.

BUT I shouldn't see that as an ending to a story, either. SIN is not the end of the story. You can't let it or anything else own you. And really, I think that's what I was doing. On February 12th, at the end of this valley, I pulled this out of the verse box that Caitlin made me:

"Keep steady my steeps according to your promise, and let no iniquity get dominion over me." Psalm 119:133

How amazing is God that I would read this in a time where I was letting sin have control over me! I was being a slave to it.

Anyway, my friend Ashley reminded me on how I needed to update my blog and therefore update with YALL! The Lord has shown me so much truth through all the same resources He uses in my life. The Word, Prayer, Time alone with God and seeking counsel. He is GOOD.

I just realized... literally, just now, that it was 6 days later that I pulled this verse:

"Into your hand I commit my spirit; you have redeemed me, O Lord, faithful God." Psalm 31:5

And He has... He did that day on the cross, He does today and He will tomorrow.

Still

2008-02-06T22:15:00.000-05:00

I still need freedom...

Honesty

2008-02-04T16:41:00.000-05:00

So, basically I think this is going to become "sort of" like a journal.

This is not going to make the most sense... but that's probably a good thing.

I'm slightly frustrated. I'm not gonna lie. I don't understand why things aren't said/things are ignored. Please, just say something. ANYTHING. That's better than nothing. I know, I know, life isn't fair. But why? ha. just some thoughts. I'm just feeling all these emotions and thoughts because I really shouldn't say anything. I DETEST that I shouldn't say anything, because in reality it means I CAN'T say anything. How is that fun? God knows all, and has all under control. So really, what does it matter?

This was my memory verse for today... what good timing... I must remember:

"For God ALONE my soul waits in silence;

From Him comes my salvation.

He ONLY is my rock and my salvation,

My Fortress; I will not be greatly shaken."

Psalm 62:1-2

It is not and CANNOT be anything or one else. Nothing can be substituted for "God" in this verse or in general, in life.

On a different note, I was looking for some kind of picture to put here and came across the perfect one. Except than the whole world would know exactly what I'm talking about and for the sake of some privacy, I'm NOT putting it up. SORRY! haha.

Singing

2008-02-03T18:49:00.000-05:00

I forgot how much I love to sing... the one below helped me remember...

2008-02-03T16:34:00.000-05:00

I was reminded of this song on Aaron Slaten's Blog... I love it. I'm trying to learn it on the guitar... Chord F frustrates me... Falling Slowly by Glen Hansard/Marketa Irglova, performed in "Once" it's sooo good.

I don't know you
But I want you
All the more for that
Words fall through me
And always fool me
And I can't react
And games that never amount
To more than they're meant
Will play themselves out

Take this sinking boat and point it home
We've still got time
Raise your hopeful voice you have a choice
You've made it now

Falling slowly, eyes that know me
And I can't go back
Moods that take me and erase me
And I'm painted black
You have suffered enough
And warred with yourself
It's time that you won

Take this sinking boat and point it home
We've still got time
Raise your hopeful voice you had a choice
You've made it now

Take this sinking boat and point it home
We've still got time
Raise your hopeful voice you had a choice
You've made it now
Falling slowly sing your melody
I'll sing along

Looking up

2008-02-02T12:53:00.001-05:00

Things are better. Last Friday I had some real time in the Word. Before then, I felt numbness to it... which really means I FELT nothing at all. In fact the time before I fell asleep... it just wasn't real. Anyway, last Friday was sweet, and then Sunday was even Sweeter. I got to go to the Birchwood Trails next to memorial park and just spend time thinking, praying, and loving the outdoors. Which I do feel such a great connection outside. Anyway, it was great. And since then I have been able to pray, memorize scripture, and just be with God without feeling fake about it.

I definitely struggle though. It can be rough. But it also can be beautiful and amazing at the same time. Anyway, God is good. I have to constantly say that out loud. This world is not good. I have to constantly remember that. If I don't remember these two things, I can get very confused and frustrated.

Other stuff:

South Africa is on the move. I'm starting to raise support which is sooo scary. But such a God thing, I know. It is biblical to give and receive (sometimes I forget this too).

Also, it's been discussed several times that I may buy my sister's car. Nothing's for sure yet, but please pray that God would show me what to do.

I GOT A JOB. I was just hired at Timothy Rd Elementary as an after school program teacher. This is sooo exciting because I love kids SOOOO much! They bring me such joy.

So God is totally answering prayers. It's just crazy because God is real and He shows me that through things like this.

Anyway, thanks for all the support. You guys are such an encouragement to me.

Broken: In Christ Alone

2008-01-20T18:59:00.000-05:00

Wow, it's funny how quickly things change. Today I have been broken. I found out a week ago that I'm going to South Africa! It's so exciting, but since then I feel I've been frozen. I don't really know what I mean when I say that, I guess I've been stagnant. And indifferent as well. Not about S. Africa, I'm quite excited about that actually. But about life, school, spiritual things, etc. This is BAD. I broke down today over it, and knew it was the Lord.

I have just been so "blah," just floating along. Not really going anywhere. Stressed and very anxious about things that I should not be stressed or anxious about, caused me to forget Christ. Yet, it is in HIM alone that I stand. or can stand. And so, I just want to tell you, my friends and family that this has been a hard but good day. Please pray for more of it. Also for diligence, discipline, discernment, and humility in my life.

"In Christ alone my hope is found
He is my light, my strength, my song
This Cornerstone, this solid ground
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm"

New Day

2008-01-10T23:04:00.000-05:00

This is just a pic of me in Barcelona... but my face in this shows how I feel now. I love it. I'm just smiling cuz it's soo beautiful.

and so my thoughts here are:

It's a new day... or almost. It's 11pm, I'm just smiling. God is good, even when we aren't. Even when we have it ALL wrong, He has it ALL right. This is God's best for us whether we know it or not. period, end of sentence. Ha. IT's fun when you actually realize/recall that that is TRUE. Isn't the grass greenest right here where we are? I LOVE IT. Or at least when I get it I do. This is just a rambling blog... and i LIKE it!

Bitter:Sweet

2008-01-08T18:07:00.000-05:00

Well, I'm home from the States... and it is bitter:sweet. Welll, I've actually been home for over 3 weeks, but it still is bitter:sweet. Although I am definitely excited to be home, be around family and friends, catch up with everyone, and have slumber parties, I do have a sweet spot in my heart for Spain. I made some really great friends and learned a lot. I got use to the everyday routine (which I will say was very easy to fall out of being that EVERY weekday morning I was up at 7:30, off from the apt. about 8:17 in order to walk to my classroom and get there by 8:57am. Class was at 9) and the culture of the Spaniards. There were so many fun things about Spain. My Spanish family (Pictured below) was one of the best parts of being there. I will forever be grateful for all they did for Moraima and me.

Well, i think I walked away learning a few things:

God is sufficient. (PERIOD)
*Spain is probably not somewhere in which I will spend the rest of my life, BUT who knows.
*America does not have it all right. (I think I should have learned this one a while ago)
*International Studies is something EVERYONE should do.

And I'm sure I learned a ton more, but it will come out in conversation. Hopefully I have already seen most of you or talked to you. If not, I can't wait till then!!!

Much Love.

Less Than a Month To Go...

2007-11-22T16:36:00.000-05:00

Just some friends and I being silly:

Well, It's Thanksgiving day and I'm awaiting a phone call from my family. I'm sad, but as one of my classmates said today, "It's so far away to even grasp that it's going on right now." Well, that's how I feel too. Although, I already talked to most of my family today and got sad when I thought about turkey, which I don't even like that much. Ha. Anyway, all is well here. We just had a weekend in Andalucia where we were in Sevilla: (It's Plaza Mayor that was closed)
and Granada. Both lovely but GRANADA took my breath away. Just beautiful. Here's some pics:

Nothing too exciting is going on. Class is still going well. Teachers are cool, classmates are civil (yet I find very negative). But that's real life I guess. Here's a pick of Salamanca's Plaza Mayor ( I walk through it everyday):

Time with God has been very good. I've really enjoyed the many things I've been into lately. I'm reading "Making Life Work" by Bill Hybels, and it's basically a book on Wisdom. It's all about Proverbs. Which is really good, in your face stuff. I've also been studying The first part of Hebrews and John, which are both awesome. I've met with Jo the woman on staff with GBU, and she's just sooo amazing. God has taught me so much through her in just the short time we've had. He's really incredible, our GOD. Wow.

Anyway, I come home in less than a month... as one could tell from my title. I'm excited. I hope, though, that I do take advantage of every moment here; currently I know that I don't always do that. But it's a choice you have to make every day: "Am I going to live this day in Spain or let Spain pass me by? Just thoughts.

Love you and Happy Thanksgiving!

Summer days... winter nights...

2007-11-06T11:38:00.000-05:00

My friend Virginie and Me

O, I'm a liar... this is not a sooner update. But, despite all things I really have meant to update this blog more.... SAD! This is literally (no exaggeration at all) my 5th time attempting to update my blog. Okay, well enough of that. Things are soooo good here. Much better than the October 11th update. I sounded slightly depressed I think. Anyway, I'm keeping myself busy with friends, events and so on. We've had some really good times thus far! School is no big deal here. It's very casual. I mean you're expected to be there but not expected to have everything right all the time. I mean we are here to learn the whole experience. But I did have two tests this week. and I did really well.

Some of My friends and I on our day off of school:

Will Carter is doing MUCH better. It's been a month since the accident and although he has a long way to go there's been much improvement. Thanks for the prayers.

And now a list of events in my life:

* I went to Paris Oct. 24-28th. It was really good despite the fact there was "une grève" which is French for "a strike." We got to the check in and they said, " well there's only one seat left, so who wants it?" I mean it was my roommate and I, and we weren’t about to leave each other. See they could only allow 100 people on the plane due to security regulations, b/c the flight attendants were on strike. So depending on how many flight attendants would work determined how many people could board. Anyway, we couldn't so we had to buy train tickets for the next night... which cause us to miss two more days of class than necessary. BUT all is said and done, and our absences are excused. So, we're at ease.

* I went to the Evangelical church. Very good. very cool. Not very big. All in Spanish. Opportunities to get involved. I'm very excited. Even better a friend and I have been meeting every Wednesday and going through John together. Very cool. GOD is so good to have blessed her and I with each other. It's so good and soo GOD. Also, we went to a bible study through GBU (which, honestly I don't know what it stands for) and it was awesome. Jo, the lady who works with GBU is from Wales and I think we're going to get coffee or tea some time this week! So cool. The Lord is good as always.

* I'm def. pursuing nursing at this point. I don't know if I've already announced that or not. It's weird how I'm really excited about this and yet have not known "all my life" that this is what I've wanted to do. But, God could change things again, you never know. But this is where I am right now.

A pic of our trip to TOLEDO... very beautiful:

* I have just found out that I have a place to live this spring in Athens. Very nice, affordable and good location. YAY! Praise God. He really has answered all my prayers. REALLY. Here's what I sent out in a newsletter before I left:

Things you can pray for:
*Community in Spain
*Someone to disciple me.
*Girls to invest in
*That I would come back MORE Godly.
*Wisdom in finance & travel
*A Car when I return to the States.
*Direction with my future (Nursing?)

I mean I'm still praying for these things... and yes there are some yet unknown to me but look how faithful God is.

Psalm 145:3
"Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised, and his greatness is unsearchable."

So good. OKAY, I guess that's it for now.... At least for everybody... Ladies I have some fun info that I know you would appreciate.

Okay, the wardrobe here is sooo fun. Basically, you can where your summer clothes in the winter; just throw on some tights, leggings, or hose and you're on you way. And EVERYONE where's boots. With EVERYTHING. Skirts, shorts, capris, and dresses: you name it the women are wearing boots with it. Even when it was warmer here no one wore flip-flops... in fact you could pick out an American if there were wearing sandals of any kind. Also, Bangs are "so in" here. All kinds of lengths shapes sizes. Hair is just different here. HA, I would notice that wouldn't I? Also, Salamanca is baby central here. EVERYWHERE you look are babies. They're so cute, in their little strollers and all. Oh yeah, and every one of them have these sleeping bags that are attached to the stroller. So they're super warm even in the cold weather. It's hilarious. Well, I guess that's it for now. Congrats to the couples who got engaged!!! Very excited for you all! okay. MWAH... miss you and love you.

Too long...

2007-10-11T12:58:00.000-04:00

SO so so sorry it's been so long since my last update... I’ve really been trying to get settled into Salamanca. Madrid was fun, but a little crowded for me. Yet, it was so nice to stay with Anna for as long as I did. It was fun to be in another city with someone I know so well and can connect with. But since I was in Madrid, Anna's brother Will got into a car accident. He’s in stable condition but he's under a lot of medication so he won't get agitated. So I would ask that you all pray for this young man.... I believe he's a senior at Roswell High and his name is Will.

My room:

Now, I'm in Salamanca, and although I'm settled in now, I don't really feel at home. I'm not "home sick" by the definition I've understood, but I miss home a lot. So, I guess homesick is the best word for it. I'm fine though. I'm not depressed or anything. I'm not sitting at home doing nothing (not all the time anyway). I'm just wishing I was home "de vez en cuando." That's what you say when want to say, "never" or "all the time" without actually saying it. Which is about what I feel. I don't really think about being home that much, yet deep down inside I know I yearn for it. It's soooo weird though, b/c I’ve always pictured myself in another country among people of another culture, and now that I’m here and am in it, I don't like it as much as I thought I would. Again, don't get me wrong, I'm enjoying it. It's fun, different, and an awesome experience.... but maybe it's not what God has in store for me for the future. Just a thought.

Anyway, FUNNY STORY, I'll try and make it short and... well I don't know how sweet: One day last week I was having it kind of bad but then it got better. I began walking home from class listening to Caedmon's call's "Expectations Master"... GrEAT SONG. Anywho, I was feeling the Spirit and just loving life. I had been praying for some kind of church or something that I could get involved with. All of a sudden this lady hands me this little tract type item, and all I read is "biblia" which means bible. So I take out my headphones and say, "dime, dime" which means, "tell me, tell me." And so we started talking, me being really excited and just wanting to know what church she goes to and she being super sweet and telling me... all in Spanish of course. well, Sunday comes around, I'm really excited I go to church... it seems so great (even though I understand close to nothing, except that they have the same bible I do). Later I meet with the nicest lady from Barbados who speaks English and we decide to get together on that Tuesday (two days ago). Well, I meet up with her (and a gentleman, not her husband, was with her). Well, after asking me a few questions and finding out where I was at spiritually, she asks me, "so have you ever spoken to a Jehovah Witness Before?" And all of a sudden I stopped, "sort of, is that what you are?" And as she smiled and nodded everything about me changed. The rest of the conversation was polite and finished, but how silly had I been.... All of this occurred with not any alone time with our Father. I had not prayed about the little tract, the church, the meeting with the lady.... anything. And look where it had gotten me. I struggled through a heck of a lot after that. Not sure why I believed what I believed and thinking maybe there is some truth to this Jehovah Witness stuff. But, I’m still studying and reading a lot on it, but the LORD JESUS has calmed my heart. Anyway, not too short or sweet, but it is a little funny...

Maybe that's why I miss home so much. I mean, I know people are praying for me. My mom called me this morning about 6:30 AM her time, and left me a message saying she was thinking about me and praying for me. She said she was praying that I would find buddies to worship and pray with as she has at home. I'm so thankful for that prayer, b/c although I know people care about me here, at this point there's been no fellowship. I take that back, there is this one girl who I have been able to connect with. I think we are going to get together once a week. I hope so anyway.

A church on Campus:

Well, this Sunday I’m going to try another church... PRAY FOR ME!!! I believe it is a Christian church, I have some American friends that are a part of a Spanish ministry that are going there. Anyway.... side notes: class has been pretty slack, anything demanding my time has been scarce. I've been able to read, think, sleep, and eat a good bit. (I actually have been able to get about 8 hours each night, which never happens in Athens... on avg. it's 6!) There's so much random info I want to share now... but this is turning into a book.... so I’ll save it for next time... which will come sooner, I PROMISE!!!XOOXOXOXOXO....

Salvador Dali's "Muchacha frente a la ventana" (1925)...

5 Days in...

2007-09-25T11:34:00.000-04:00

Okay.... so the culture in spain is way different. I mean of course it is. But wow...I had no idea that mullets (mullet 1 noun |ˈmələt|2 a hairstyle in which the hair is cut short at the front and sides and left long in back), rattails (A rattail is a haircut that is characterized by a long "tail" of hair growing from the back of the head), and variations of both were still "in." I really should have taken pictures....Oh wait I just got one:

This is a dreaded Mullet... in case you weren't sure or couldn't tell by the pic.

Everyone smokes here too. It's CRAZY! We were in a back room at this mexican restaurant the other night (where there were NO windows) and it was filled with people smoking. There's no "smoking or non?" QUE LOCO! There are so many teenagers as well. The streets are covered with teens drinking, making out, or smoking. They all have something pierced, lot's of piercings around the mouth. And NOBODY speaks English... They all speak this castellano spanish that is SOOOO hard to understand. Instead of "cinco" for the number five it's more like "thinco." and "grathias" instead of "gracias"... And it goes on and on... they all speak SOOOO fast too. Hah.... it's funny hearing my try to have a conversation with any spaniard. I met a lady from Colombia and it was SOOO easy to talk to her. She agreed with me on it being hard to understand espanol de Madrid.

Another thing that is different is nobody says, "good morning" to the passerby. I said it (in spanish of course: Buenos dias) the first morning I was here to an older spanish lady... picture one with a skirt, apron, broom in hand, bandana on head, and in her 70's (just like the movies). And she said in a most short and monotonous way, "hola, buenos dias." I just thought she was having a bad day and had no idea about the cultural difference until later when my friend Anna said, "nobody greets or makes eye contact with anybody on the street." So then it all came together.

I got lost in the Metro system the second day I was here. I was by myself and was told, the metro is really easy... yeah, not so true for a first time user. I spent about an hour underground just LOOKING for the right line to get on or the exit. I was too scared to ask anybody after I had talked to the security guard and didn't understand a thing he said. (Even AFTER I told him I didn't speak much spanish) But eventually, I got on a train, got lost again, and asked a very nice spanish lady for some ayuda(help). She was SOOOO sweet and helped me beautifully. I then found the right stop... and proceeded to spend 20 minutes following "salida" signs (exit signs) in circles. FINALLY I got above ground into Madrid. (I'm staying just outside the city with Anna in Pozuelo). Anyway, I was glad to be done with it. Anna later explained to me the whole metro system and it's much easier now.

Friday was Noche en blanco... this huge festival that happens once a year in Madrid. "Noche en blanco" is an expression that means not getting any sleep the night before. I mean in spain everybody stays out sooo late (until 7 in the morning is not uncommon). Hence they don't get any sleep and the expression "noche en blanco." A pic from that night with some friends:

Saturday we went shopping with some of Anna's friends.... super cool people. Sunday we went to an international church and then RETIRO. It's a HUGE, Beautiful park. A pic of me on the man-made lake in Retiro in front of the monument to Alfonso XII.

And then yesterday we went to anna's bible study, which was so great. ON the way over to the bible study we met the sweetest couple. I sat down across from them and pulled out my pedometer (because you walk everywhere here) to see Anna's and my info on our walking. The Spanish man leaned over to look at it and Started talking to me.... I have no idea what he said, but I tried to explain what it was. They knew NO English, and anna and I know so little spanish. We just kept coming to stumbling blocks in our conversation. BUT they were sooo sweet! We were going to the metro station as were they, and they told us the best way to get to our destination. I asked the woman what her name was and she said, "marie lkadfkja" (i don't know what she said after maria). Then she put her arm in mine and said, "se llama?" and I told her. She said, "oh Elisa, que bonita." She was just so cute! Anyway, with all that being said, they may not greet a stranger whose just walking by, but the moment you actually stop to have a conversation with ANYONE you realize they are the NICEST people.

It is really great and I'm having an amazing time. I go to Salamanca on the 30th. I'd love to hear what's going on with everyone else. Email me if you have time... or leave a comment! XOXO! Keep on Praying for me... it's much needed!

Everything SPAINish

2007-09-20T13:57:00.000-04:00

Well, I'm here. I arrived at 12:30 on thursday the 20th. (Spain time of course). I've been here only hours but I do love it. I'm sitting at my friend's table looking at the backyard. It's so lovely. I began to journal. I really feel like the Lord has a lot in store for me here. I'm so thankful for Anna and her letting me stay with her for these first few days. Her boss is the area coordinator for Young Life in Madrid (she lives with His family) So, that's really cool to get around some believers when I first get here. It's also cool because one of Anna's friends has a friend who is studying in Salamanca also.... AND she loves the Lord. What a blessing. Even though I haven't been so faithful in my Prayers it is so cool to see God be so faithful. Another Believer in Salamanca! It's not that there won't be other Christians there, it's just finding them so you can fellowship! Anyway.... I don't have a ton to say right now BUT I will say Call me on my SKYPE NUMBER and leave a message if I don't answer. It's no different then calling any old atl number. The number is on my info page on facebook (it's a 678 number). If you want it and don't have facebook leave a comment or email me! LOVE YOU ALL... Missing you Already.

Okay, the only pics I got: My view of the back yard.

Dahlongega...

2007-08-20T21:35:00.000-04:00

I went to Dahlonega this weekend. And what an amazing trip I had! It was soooo good. I had such fun with my friends. We got to go to a Matt Papa concert on Friday night and that was just GREAT! By the time Sunday came around we had explored the cute stores of Down town Dahlonega and just had some good girl time. Sunday after noon we went to Dick's creek. Man was that awesome. I didn't realize how much I love the outdoors. I love to hike and go camping, but I never get to do it. Can't wait till next time.

Here's a few other pics...

This is a naturally made rock slide that some of the girls went on

Just a view from the top of the rock slide. If you look at the bottom left there's a guy about to go down.

Robin and Lisa by this gorgeous pool of water...

well... just another day and I need prayer.

2007-08-16T18:56:00.000-04:00

Today was blah... School started today at UGA... SAD. It's weird how I'm just not a part of that. Wow, it's great though that I get to be a part of something else. SPAIN. But, while I'm in the states the time just drags on... I have all the time in the world, yet have done very little to encourage myself. I'm tyring to prepare for Spain, yet I don't think I'm doing a great job. I just need God, yet I think that PEOPLE can fix this blahness. O but only HE can satisfy.

I need pray... and MUCH of it. Finances are a little crazy right now, fellowship is almost non-existent. There is really very little encouragement coming to or fro my way. And that's a little hard. But I know God is greater than all this. I love and continue to miss you all...

I believe I'm going to North Georgia College this weekend. That will be lovely... Good fellowship there.

side note Again, I'm listening to Pandora.com. I love this thing.

Side Note

2007-08-06T23:38:00.000-04:00

I'm in the process of putting up the pics from this summer... If you go to the "my pics" link on the left you can find them!

Home.

2007-08-04T13:46:00.000-04:00

I'm home now. I've been here for two days... sleeping mostly. I was really lonely when I got up. My sis and mom were at work and my bro was still asleep. So it was just me... and loneliness. Sad. But then the Lord comforted me. I think the fact that i "lived" with 58ish other college students put me in that sadness when i got home. But the Lord is SOOOO GOOD. I think He's preparing me for september when I go to Spain. I have no idea what community is going to look like over there. BUT I know that despite all those factors, The LORD is my strength, my portion forever. How greatful am I... SO greatful!

Anyway, the Lord taught me so much this summer. How much I need Him is one thing. I think it is so cool to see that the more you walk with the Lord, the more you see you're sin which then makes you want to walk with Him even more. So it's a neverending process. I pray that it would be just that in my life... NEVERENDING.

I hope to visit Athens a few weeks after school starts but I'm not sure when. For those of you in Atlanta, I'll be calling you in the next few weeks to get together before I leave for spain (sept. 19th)

Breakdown

2007-07-17T11:58:00.000-04:00

I can't think of another word to describe the last few days down here. Sooo much has happened, and yet there's so little time to describe it all. The past week i have felt numb to many things. My passion has seem non-existent and my heart had hardened to so many things. BUT, the Lord is good and sovereign. I'm still learning who He is and about His grace, And HIS desire for me. How perfect and ENOUGH He is. And so I have found this role of leading to been good, stressful at times, but good.

And the King has brought me to my knees at HIS feet several times... and I'm sooo thankful. I felt so much emotion last night. Worship was soo Amazing for me. We sang "Be Thou my vision" and "So I wait for you" at least I think that's the title. Either way, the Lord put me in my Place. He was/is Faithful in my prayers. I asked for emotion/feelings/ SOMETHING, and He def. gave it to me and continues to. I just think of Hosea 6:1

"Come let us Return to the Lord, for He has torn us that He may heal us; He has broken us, that he may build us up."

And so: Psalm 6:9
"The Lord has heard my plea, the Lord accepts my prayer"

Words cannot describe... And so time is not important. Love you all... Be back in Canton Aug. 2nd and I'll make a trip up to Athens very soon.

"And so it is, just like you said it would be..." -Damien Rice.

2007-06-28T10:14:00.000-04:00

I feel like these are words to God from me. The Lord is SO in control of all things. He is sovereign over it all. We are just so small and can't comprehend it. This past week I freaked out about this one issue, for even a moment I thought it would "ruin" my summer. I thought that because of a minute, yet abrupt, realization my focus on the Lord would be in competition with a focus on this other matter. Yet the Lord would not let this happen. It was fine, just like HE said it would be. Hard at first but He was with me. He was leading me.

"And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, 'this is the way, walk in it,' when you turn to the right or left." Is. 30:21

Isn't He so good! Anyway, this week has been good, just trying to learn a lot about Him and me. I continue to see so much of my sin. And that's so good.

Most of the staff at the summer beach project leave this Monday, and then 5 of us students and 2 of the younger single staff members will be leading the project from then on out. We're def. Getting into the swing of things so I think that it will be good. I just pray that everyday we would give it to God. ALL of IT.

Learning...

2007-06-21T14:01:00.000-04:00

Well, Being down here has def. led to many questions about life and my faith. I have a hard time with a lot of structure, which is exactly what Beach Project is good at: structure. It's really challenging me to look up God's truth about EVERYTHING! I know that sometimes I have a rebellious heart. Which happens to be the organ that deceives all else. SO, you can see how that's going. Anyway, there are a lot of things that I'm still learning about when being a team leader. There's a lot of responsibility that I overlook and then realize a little too late that I should have taken care of it. But I'm learning. And there' s sooo much grace. God is so good to show me that.

Work is still good. But very exhausting physically. My legs are sore everyday that I work. I'm hoping/praying that it will get better. It stops me from wanting to work out, which is not good at all. Also having to do with work, one of our managers became a Christian!!! How exciting is that. She's so eager and def. changed. God is so good. Especially for the fact that my passion to share with the lost is not all there. Yet HE is gracious enough to let me see someone come to Christ. I mean HE's GOOD, what can I say.

I'm currently needing much rest and passion. If you want something to pray for, here you go! And, I really would love to study God's word much more than I have been! I want to keep it on my heart and here HIS voice by it!

Elisa

almost two weeks in...

2007-06-13T11:43:00.000-04:00

So I'm almost two weeks into my summer and really figuring out my role as a team leader. I have been able to spend a lot of time with the Room leaders as well as the girls they're leading. Honestly, I have been a little overwhelmed. But it's been good. I work at McDonalds.... WOOHOO. It's so crazy because I've realized I have some PRIDE issues. I want everyone that sees me to know what I'm doing this summer and I'm not just working at McD's for the heck of it. What sin do I encounter!!! Anyway, I def. am learning a lot about myself and others. there's already been a little conflict here and there among some of the girls rooms. So, I'm learning how to help without intruding. My room has been great. I'm living with two people that I'm very close with. And eventhough it's not perfect it's going really well and I continue to see my weaknesses and sin. YAY! Ha, anyway, that's all I got for now. Please pray that my passion for the Lord would grow immensely and that I would be humbled and made new everyday. Love and miss all of you!!!

Beach Project: Finally

2007-06-07T09:56:00.000-04:00

So sorry it's taken me sooo long again to update. My sister's wedding seemed to take over my life and then the next day I was on a flight to Daytona. So now I'm at a little coffee shop that has wirelesss and I'm finally updating my blog.

Amanda's wedding was wonderful and it was really a beautiful picture about christ and who He is rather than Amanda and Jimmy. My brother David couldn't make it out there which was really hard on the family, especially Amanda and my little brother Isaac. But despite his physical absence, we could all feel his emotional and spiritual presence through a letter (he sent through his wife Allison who was able to be there). We knew he would be there if he could. And so after all was said and done, the wedding was here and gone. And i'm so happy for them. And as they headed to Kissemee, Florida on Sunday for their honeymoon, I headed to Daytona, Florida for the two months of this summer's beach project.

When I got here, I was sooo exhausted. I didn't realize how much entertainig and planning took out of you! A friend and fellow team leader, Julie Sigl, picked me up at the airport at 12pm and when I arrived at the hotel I hit the hay. I slept for a few hours, and by the time I woke up and had some energy, EVERYONE was back from church. And it was really crazy because I still needed some time to recover, so I didn't want to step outside. But as time went on, and our Sunday night meeting was in view, I began to show my face. I met soooo many new people that night.

So I've been here four days, and God's already teaching me so much. So much about roommates and leadership and being intentional about my time and so on. One thing I was kind of worried about (which I know I should immediately go to God wih all things) is that I would be tied down by structure and rules. Becuase to be honest, the last coulple of summers were looking that way. BUT, it hasn't been like that AT ALL!! Praise the Lord. I'm so thankful that He has brought me here this summer. It's so cool to get a glimpse of His glory through situations like these.

I have been able to spend a good deal of time with the three girls I'm discipling who are leading their room of 3 girls. It's such a great picture of discipleship. But I have also got to hang out and learn about other students here as well. Basically from the little time that I've been here Great things have been happening. One thing that I wasn't planning on was leading a group in lou of one of my disciple's absence. It was crazy becuase in that hour or two of our time together, I got to see into these two individuals lives that I hadn't ever seen or known super well before. And also, having roommates again has been an adjustment. Since I've been a Resident Assistant the last few years, I haven't had a roommate except on beach project. So I'm back at project and have roommates again. And it's been GREAT! I know it will get harder but it's cool to be humbled and know that everything can't be MY WAY (and it shouldn't). And so the Lord is teaching my about humility! I have to have it!!!

Anyway, sorry this is so lengthy and detailed I will catch up on the more important things in about a week or so. But one AMAZING thing is that 3 people have become christians since being down here. And one of them is on my team!!! Okay, well I will try to get to the coffee shop at least once a week, so please keep checking! Also, please comment to me if you would like the address down here and I will send you an email with it. I hope everyone is doing well. thank you for all your support for my summer!! Please continue to pray for it!!!

hope...

2007-05-28T09:21:00.000-04:00

Things are better as I prepare for beach project. All the other team leaders reached Daytona last night, and being absent from that part is quite sad. I'm not there because my sister gets married Saturday and she needs me during this time. But, I fly down to florida the next day, so that will be good.

The truth is though, I need SOO MUCH prayer. N0thing can be done without Christ, and since I've been home it seems as though I was trying to do everything without Him. So please pray that I would seek Him in EVERYTHING. I feel like that is my repetitive prayer... which is fine with me.