PSALM 143:10

so many changes.

2007-10-06T12:15:00.000-04:00

I am now married to the most wonderful man ever. We were married Sept. 1, 2007. I don't live in Lavaca anymore, nor Fort Smith. I live in Little Rock now with my husband b/c this is where he lives. I'm not teaching in my own classroom yet! I am subbing since I'm new here. I view my Facebook more than anything, hence why I haven't updated this thing in a very very long time.

I just thought I'd see if I could get back into my blogger. I did!

Life is funny...
when I was in high school I said I would never live in Little Rock. Well, here I am and it isn't bad at all. I miss my family though.

reading with meaning.

2006-09-20T00:58:00.000-04:00

Today was a very informational, interesting day at a teacher workshop I attended! Here is what I learned...

There is a woman named Marily Jager Adams who came up with this four part model which basically displays and explains how we learn to read, more specially how a child learns to read. What are the thinking and learning processes a child goes through while learning to read?

Our written language is based on an alphabetic systerm. Therefore in order to read an unknown word a child must:
1. Process the written symbols.
2. Link the written symbols to a phonological unit.
3. Link the phonological unit(s) to a word meaning.
4. Construct an ongoing understanding of the text.

The Four Part Mental Processing Model

Phonological (speech)
Orthographic (print)
Meaning
Context

Interesting tidbits:
1.) If a child has never heard a word used verbally, it will be difficult for them to pronouce it. For example: If a child has never heard the word "fan" and more specifially heard the different meanings. One being, the fan that cools us off, and Two being a sports fan. So when that child reads "My dad is a fan." That child may not be able to pronounce /f//a//n/, because that doesn't make sense. Their thinking process may be, "My dad is a thing that turns on the ceiling?" They will think that the word must not be "fan" even though the sounds are /f//a//n/, because, duh, that just doesn't make sense.
Silly sounding, I know, but it's true. That is why I completely and wholeheartly believe it is so important for parents to talk to their babies and as the child gets older engage in conversations with their child. I don't mean just telling their child what to do, when and where, but actually sit down, model good conversation skills by looking at them, asking open-ended questions ("WIll you please tell me how that makes you feel? What do you think about this?"), and showing good listening skills. Children watch more than we realize. More is "caught" than "taught".

I find this information very interesting.
Think back to when you learned how to read. Can you remember? How were you taught? Sounds first? Letter Recognition? How did you learn to comprehend text that you read or heard?

I honestly can't remember specifics of learning sounds and new words. Somehow I became a reader. However, the way reading and writing and that whole process is taught today in school has more meaning than the way I learned. When I teach I tell "why" we are doing something so they can make the connections and "school" has a point.

2.)There are about 41 phonemes in our language. (Phoneme are the sounds you hear.) For example: cat has three phonemes: /c//a//t/. rhyme also has three: /r//i//m/. It is amazing that out of all the words we speak, they all derive from about 41 different sounds.

When you think about it, every word that comes from your mouth is just a bunch of different sounds put together. Maybe I'm just nerd and think about such things. Languages are fascinating!! I think it would be so interesting to learn several different languages, because they too are just a bunch of different sounds that contruct meaning in different ways.

back to school. back to school. where we must obey all the rules!

2006-08-22T23:23:00.000-04:00

My first two days of school were great!! I don't think I could have asked for a better first day of school, even though my clock stopped working in the afternoon and we missed a lesson.
My little first graders are precious!! I have 23 students and only one is white. It's awesome! The rest are Hispanic and African American, and one is Asian. They are so sweet.

captivating.

2006-08-18T00:37:00.000-04:00

"A woman in the presence of a good man, a real man, loves being a woman. His strength allows her feminine heart to flourish. His pursuit draws out her beauty. And a man in the presence of a real woman loves being a man. Her beauty arouses him to play the man, it draws out his strength. She inspires him to be a hero." (Captivating, p18)

just ponder the reality God unchanging.

2006-08-14T21:25:00.000-04:00

There is the God of the Bible we read about in the OT and NT, and sometimes we are prone to think this God cannot understand what we are all about since we live in this nuclear age and an era so different from those of the believers in Bible times. However, this is dangerous ground. God is the same God that He was then. God's life never changes. God's character does not change. God's truth does not change. God's ways do not change. God's purposes do not change. And last but not least, God's Son does not change.

To expound on His unchanging character...let's think about this as Packer points out in Knowing God. In human life, tastes and outlook and temper may radically change, such as a kind, equable person may turn bitter and crotchety; or a person of good will may grow callour and cynical. But never does this happen with the Creator. "He never becomes less truthful, or merciful, or just, or good than he used to be. The character of God is today, and always will be, exactly what it was in Bible times."

"Created things have a beginning and an ending, but not so their Creator. The answer to the child's question 'Who made God?' is simply that God did not need to be made, for he was always there. He exists forever, and he is always the same. He does not grow older. His life does not wax or wane. He does not gain new powers nor lose those that he once had. He does not mature or develop. He does not get stronger, or weaker, or wiser, as time goes by. 'He cannot change for the better, for he is already perfect; and being perfect, he cannot change for the worse.' (A.W. Pink)

God is still almighty to save us just as he was to save those believers in the OT and NT.

If only I constantly and consistently held the perspective of this true nature of God and the many other attributes He has...and not the ones I 'think' He has, but the ones that He reveals to us through His Word.

spontaneous poetry.

2006-08-05T11:08:00.000-04:00

A while back, May 2nd to be exact, I wrote a spontaneous poem. I prefer to write that way...just on the spur of the moment, when it comes to my mind. Tonight I was prompted to revisit that poem. I'm not sure why, but I needed to be reminded again of something I believe is still so much a part of what I desire.

The poem comes from the perspective of a person telling a gentleman how to treat conversations with a lady. Sounds so serious, huh? haha! Well, it is! Such a pivitol moment conversations can be.

I'm not a writer, nor a poet regardless that I've filled almost 7 journals in my life time, however it seems to be the best way I can express things deep within.

You should try it, if you don't already...Spontaneous Poetry.

star light conversations.

2006-08-05T11:06:00.000-04:00

Tonight my dear friend and I sat outside on the swing and she saw a falling star. I missed it! A few minutes later my time came. I saw one!! The night is beautiful.
Nothing can replace such precious friendships, such sweet conversations.

Proverbs 17:17
A friend loveth at all times.

first things first.

2006-08-01T23:21:00.001-04:00

The first thing I'll have to conquer starting off the school year is...
Learning my students' names AND how to pronounce them correctly.

For instance, I have a Jawariyah, Leticia, Baneka, Misael

I'm so excited. Lots of DIVERSITY!!

workshop wonders.

2006-08-01T23:21:00.000-04:00

Today I learned some very interesting and unusual things about people. For instance I met a girl that can swallow her tongue. Yes, I'm serious! As soon as we got a break, I went up to her and asked her how in the world she discovered such a thing. She showed me, and I'm a witness...this girl really can swallow her tongue. Amazing!!! Everyone had to share info about themselves plus something unusual about themselves in front of the group. Yikes! I hate talking in front of a large group of people. I could have shared that I can fit 29 cheeto-balls in my mouth at one time, buuuuuuuutttt I didn't. Mine wasn't too unusal after hearing the others talk. Oh, one lady backpacked with her husband through all these different countries. I think that would be so neat to do. I think she said they did that for 10 years!! They quit their good teaching jobs to do that.

Sitting in my workshop the thought crossed my mind of how spoiled I am, if that is the right word to use. With this room so full of people, from different places and backgrounds, hardships and joys...I'm the minority when it comes to marital and family status. Most of everyone was either married, married with kids, or single with kids, but just single was a small number. So the reason I felt spoiled/guilty maybe was b/c when I woke up this morning, who did I have to concern myself with? Me. I didn't have a husband to kiss off to work, nor kids to get dressed and off to some sort of child-care. I just woke up, took care of my needs, jumped into my car and off I went. Lord willing all that will change one day, but for now it's where I am....

My next thought was about the differences that come through hardships and trials. I can't honestly say my life has been hard in the sense as it has been for some people. There are those around me facing their dad's slow death to cancer, those who just tragically lost a wife, people struggling financially, and the list goes on. What the heck is my problem?? I really need to work on being slow to complain.

I think a lot...it seems I can't stop. I did for the most part pay attention during my extremely long workshop, but these things just popped into my mind.

run like the wind. run like a child.

2006-08-01T23:20:00.000-04:00

I ran with a child tonight. Hand-in-hand we went around the track. Oh to be a child again. She is going into first grade. I asked if she was ready. She said, "yes", of course. I said, "Me too!!" She looked up at me with a strange face and asked, "You're going to be in first grade?" Then I proceeded to tell her a lie about how I just stayed in first grade all my life. Ok, I was kidding and told her that I was.

i'm lucky to have a finger.

2006-07-21T18:45:00.000-04:00

This morning, I'm finishing up my homework, which was suppose to be done the night before. I had typed it on my computer to get down my thoughts and planned on copying them on my paper before I left the house this morning. So, I sit down at the table, began copying off of my computer, and realized the radio (that I didn't turn on) was a distraction. So, my graceful body gets up and trips over my computer charger wire. I turn to see a horrible sight. My ibook plummeting to the tile kitchen floor. I quickly reach to catch it, and although I didn't completely keep it from hitting the floor, I think I made the crash not so bad. What I didn't realize until several seconds later, as I was in panic mode to catch my falling piece of equipment, that I need to learn to live without sometimes, my finger was bleeding. I think I cut it on the side of my PLASTIC laptop screen. Ahhh, it's a plastic cut!! It wouldn't stop bleeding so I had to put a band-aid on it. Well, it just so happens that I purchased some flippin' cool band-aids yesterday for my little first graders. I had the wonderful selection of Dora the Explorer and Spiderman. Can you guess what I chose?? I'll let you think about it. I was so excited to actually get to wear a cute band-aid instead of just a plain ol' skin colored one. Looking at my finger now, I think the cut may leave a scar. A scar to remind me of the time my computer about died..but thankfully didn't.

So, maybe I was a little dramatic saying that I'm lucky to have a finger, but it was a bad cut. haha!

here's some info for ya.

2006-07-21T18:44:00.000-04:00

This was information obtained at my math workshop today. However, I copied it off of the poster onto my notebook and then off of my paper onto here...so this info wasn't remembered, I guess. So this info falls into the 10% category for me. I won't remember any of these %'s.

I REMEMBER...
10% of what I read
20% of what I hear
30% of what I see
50% of what I see and hear
70% of what I discuss with others
80% of what I experience by doing
90% of what I teach to others

My poor lil' first graders. I hope they learn something from their teacher next year. haha! Seriously, sometimes I feel so ignorant about how to teach. So, I'll just pray. You too, if you think of it.

windemere...i'll never forget.

2006-07-16T23:24:00.000-04:00

Missouri is just as humid as Arkansas. I can't escape it!!

Camp this past week went well for the most part. I'll spare most of the details. The most important though is a couple of students received Christ. I'm rejoicing about that. I got to know some young people a little better. I also got to meet some really cool people from Texas. (i.e. Carson)

Upon returning to the thick humidity of my home town, exhausted and tired, my best friend and I couldn't pass up watching Napoleon Dynamite. We needed a laugh and for some reason that movie, or just quoting the lines in it brings laughter to our mouths and stupidity to our brains, but enhances our vocabulary for sure!

Today we drove all the way to Fayetteville to buy a futon for my classroom only to find out they were sold out. (Flippin' idiot, I should have called first.) Oh well...

Tonight it was cookin' out over my friend's house and watching fireworks, which were so awesome!

I've become quite dizzy since I've been home. It is rather strange. I'm not sure what is going on.

Sometimes I just wonder what people are thinking...
Something happened this past week that I am not sure why it occured in my life, seriously. I almost thought about backing out of going to camp, but I was asked to go and I didn't want to break a commitment. I was blessed in going to say the least. God had me go for some purpose. The specific occurrence was delightful, confusing, butterflies-in-your-stomach, enjoyable, desireable, and comfortable. I'm sure I could think of more, but for the sake of time and space I'll cease. I say to myself, "Now, God wouldn"t dangle a carrot in front of my face, would he?" I really don't believe He would do that. I have specific desires in my heart, and I am trusting that God is giving me the desires He wants me to have so I need to just relax and not fret about stupid things. He knows exactly what I NEED. This "thing" was "perfect" in one aspect, but the other aspects are yet to be discovered. All I could do and still do is pray "Lord, Your will be done." I almost feel foolish praying for what I want, and I really didn't and don't know how to pray about it other than that. Anybody been there?

I think...I think way too much. My mind never stops it seems. One thing I know I need to be thinking and meditating on especially in trying circumstances that I've vaguely poured out above, is what God is saying through His Word in the following verses. He holds ALL things together. Christ reigns today, tomorrow, and forever. Thinking about that for a long while will consume all my thoughts of anything I'm currently fretting about, I'm sure. But only if I do it.

Colossians 1
15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. 16 For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities all things were created through him and for him. 17 And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.

fireworks.

2006-07-05T23:34:00.000-04:00

I've been helping at my friend's family's fireworks stand the past several days. It was crazy busy today. It rained too. You'd think the rain would deter some or most of the crowd, but it only encouraged them to come on, it seemed. It's fun...you get to see all kinds of people. I saw an adorable Hispanic little girl (about 2 yrs. old) running around the fireworks tables in just her little pull-up. She didn't know any English it seemed, b/c when we asked if she smoked cigarettes she still shook her little head 'yes'. haha! Of course we were just playing. She was a doll!! I saw lots of cute kids!!

This week.....it's gonna be busy!

In our small group class on the Lord's Day we are starting a new study. I'm excited. We are going to use a book I read last year called Knowing God by J.I. Packer.

garage sales.princesses.and.waterparks.

2006-06-11T23:25:00.000-04:00

Strange title I know!! However, my weekend consisted of garage sale'n on Friday morning and being a princess on Saturday.

Friday morning at 6:30am we headed up to town to hit the garage sales. I mainly found lots of great things for my classroom. Probably the coolest thing, was this old...ancient...chair that turns into a step stool. How cool is that?! It looks like it is from the 70's. It was only one dollar!! chaaa-ching!! We went to some really ...REALLY nice neighborhoods. We went to this really nice house and all I walk away with was a stuffed animal green frog! Boy, did I get some strange looks plopping that thing on the table to buy. I explained to the ladies that it was for my classroom. Btw, I'm doing a frog theme for my classroom. We called it a day after 4 to 5 hours of garage sale'n.

Saturday I was a princess...not just any princess...a Strawberry princess!! A lady that attends the same church as me, is the marketing manager at Chic-fil-A and she came up with an idea to have a princess theme to kick-off their new milkshakes. There was a Strawberry, Chocolate, Vanilla, and Cookie-n-Creme princess. At first I felt silly, but then we heard that little girls could dress up as a princess and get a free milkshake, eat lunch with the princess (us), get your picture taken for free, ride in a limo, get your face and/or fingernails painted, and make a princess scepter. It was a little girl's dream come true!! A limo picked us flavored princesses up at a hotel and brought us to Chic-fil-A. All these little girls were lined up in front of the store waiting on us. It was such a great idea, b/c it brought a lot of people to the restaurant. A little "snow white" princess wanted to know how I'd drink with a cup before she took a sip of her coke. She said, "I want to know how a princess drinks." Is that not cute or what??

Coming up... my friend and I are going to enjoy a day at a waterpark. Can't wait!!!

Starting at 7:30am to run.

who is Jesus.

2006-05-31T20:27:00.000-04:00

Conversation among kindergartners while I was subbing yesterday:

Kindergartner 1: "Jesus is God's brother!"
Me: "No, (smiling) Jesus is God's Son."
Kindergartner 2: "God is Jesus' Father."
Kindergartner 1: "Nuh-uh! Jesus is God's Father."
Kindergartner 2: "God is Jesus's Father."
Me (looking at Kindergartner 2): "You're right. God is Jesus' Father. Jesus is God's Son."
Kindergartner 2 (looking a k-1): "See, the teacher said so."
Kindergartner 3: "The devil was an angel."
Me: "That's right."
Kindergartner 4: "The devil is bald."
Me: "Have you seen him?"
Kindergartner 4: "Uhh..no."
Kindergartner 5: "The devil likes it when we lie."
Kindergartner 3: "The devil wants us to do wrong things. He wants us to not do what God wants us to do."
Me: "That's right. He wants boys and girls to do wrong things and to not do what God tells them to do."
Kindergartner 6: "Jesus died."
Kindergartner 7: "He is alive."
Kindergartner 6: "No, He died."(demonstrating His hands being pierced and stretching out his arms) (to me)"He died, but then revived? Didn't he? (He either learned that Jesus did die, but rose again, or was confused at what Kindergartner 7 was saying. I think He understood.)
Me: (grining) "Yes, He died, but he 'revived.' He is alive."

Talk about blessin' ya!!
Some of these little ones, I'll have in my first grade class in August.

fyi.

2006-05-25T17:48:00.000-04:00

I'm not a cat-person!!
Here is the story...
This white cat starts lingering around our house. Mom being the dog-lover she is also has a heart for any animal that needs its basic needs met. So come to find out the cat is pregnant and then has five cute kittens. Well, it storms one night and rains cats and dogs (pun unintended). The cat, which we will call Samatha, and her kittens were living in this tire in our next door neighbors yard. (Yeah, that's Arkansas for ya.) Mom saves the poor, helpless kittens from drowing in the tire that filled up with water. So now we have Samantha and 5 precious little kittens living next to our house, not in a tire though. (Notice my terms of endearment toward the cats are progressing.) Mom is wanting to find them a good home, (I do too) so we are taking pictures of them to show people. Their little eyes showed amazement as they came into the house for the first time. We sat them on the couch so their beautiful white hair would contrast with the dark colors of the couch pillows. One of them climbed up my chest onto my shoulder as I was holding him or her, which ever it is. He just sat there all cute. That is how I came to this picture...not because I'm a cat-person. Although I can't help but get attached to the little cuties! If only they could stay small.
Oh, Mom named the kittens Biblical names. Timothy is my favorite, b/c he is solid white.

almost a repeat.

2006-05-21T12:42:00.000-04:00

This morning I had breakfast at a coffee shop with one of my close friends. As she and I was driving home, we almost hit another vehicle b/c they didn't look and just started pulling out onto the road. Kerri had to swerve and thankfully there wasn't another car coming in the other lane. Talk about a "repeat" of two days ago. We just thanked the Lord several times the rest of the way home. If she hadn't have swerved we would have hit the dude! At the coffee shop, we had just been talking about what happened two days ago too. She jokingly said, "get out of my car" or something like that. haha!

Praise the LORD for his protection this week!!

an instant reminder.

2006-05-20T00:10:00.000-04:00

Yesterday as I was driving to a church buidling to pick up some tickets for a concert (that I'm going to on Saturday night, not Sunday!), I was reminded of God's providence in the little things. I was driving down Rogers Ave. and just happened to see something that made me think to call one of my friends. I had to leave a message, and I'm glad too b/c.... As I turned off of Rogers Ave. onto the next street, headed to the church building, this car pulls out of the Wal-Mart parking lot, (I guess they didn't see me) and about hit me on my passenger side. I swerved really quick, with the tires screeching. It was so close. I started to cry as I drove on. I had to pull it together though so I could go in and by the tickets without a red face. I am so thankful there wasn't a car coming the other direction as I swerved into the other lane. I'm also glad I wasn't on the telephone, b/c had my friend answered we would have been talking and I wouldn't have been as alert. That moment was so surreal, but a wonderful reminder to me of God's providence in how and why things happen when they happen and His sovereignty. ...and how short life is, and how in an instant your life could change or end...and....I'm sure the list could go on.

Well, it looks like I'm going to have to buy a new car sooner than I thought. I was hoping my car would last me at least another 6 to 12 months. Today as I drove home from school, my car did something funny and I thought I'd better pull over. I got into the turning lane and that was it! ...It DIED! A cop came to my rescue to get me out of the middle of the road. Then dad showed up and then mom. God has perfect timing in providing what we need. He blessed me with a new job, before this happened.

He takes care of His children.

watercolors.

2006-05-09T21:26:00.000-04:00

I bought some watercolor paints yesterday and a watercolor pad. I just love to paint. It's so much fun. My next step is....canvas painting!! I mainly want to paint my Chinese name on canvas to add to my Chinese-decorated bedroom. We shall see...

Today, I subbed in a first grade classroom. They were so cute and sweet. At times they didn't listen very well, but hey, I'm the sub! (I need the practice though with those first graders.)

Tomorrow, I am going to my best friend's third grade classroom to talk about my experience in China. She is doing an Asian unit with her students this week so she asked if I would come talk to them. I am so excited!! I have an excuse to wear my Chinese dress.

a first grade teacher.

2006-05-08T19:23:00.000-04:00

I found out today I got a job!!! It was the last job I interviewed for and I thought I didn't get it. I am going to be a first grade teacher. Praise the Lord for answering my prayer and the prayer of so many others. Now I gotta get into teaching mode...
What do you teach first graders????????? :-O

restless.

2006-05-07T00:31:00.000-04:00

Most of the time I can't wait for bedtime, b/c most of the time I'm tired. Tonight my body and mind doesn't want to sleep. I could blame it on sleeping in today or drinking a couple of cups of coffee this afternoon. (Sometimes caffine doesn't have such an effect on me.) I put in You've Got Mail, and watched a good 30 to 45 minutes of that. (It's is one of my favorites.)

This past week was a bit of a challenging week. I subbed in a diverse first grade class all week while their teacher was in Chicago at a reading conference getting free books and meeting authors. I was basically wore out by the end of the day. However, blessings come when you work with children. While teaching spelling one day, I'd ask the students what each word meant. The word was "rich" and the responses I received were "It means you have lots of money." and "You can be rich in family." (now if that doesn't bless your heart.) Another child said, "Sometimes rich people make fun of Christians."
Later as I called several of the children to read one-on-one to me during their center time, I called Victor, the child who said that last quote. I asked him about what he said. I then asked him if he was a Christian. He said yes. I was so happy, b/c this just isn't an American little boy, he is from Laos. I asked where he goes to church and he explained that to me. I asked what his church was called, and he said "Sunday School". :-) I asked what he learned at church. He said, "I learn about God and Jesus, and how Jesus died on the cross for our sins. He died for my sins and has forgiven me of all my sins." He was so real when he shared with me. It excites me when I can hear and see other "cultures" professing Christ as Lord and Savior.

four-eyes.

2006-05-04T00:02:00.000-04:00

For those who wanted to see me with my new glasses (*cough* Jen and Stacey)....here ya go!
You didn't say on my face, so here's my hand holding them!! ;-)

Okay, I'll go ahead and show you. Here is my grandpa and me and....uh...the dog (Corky)!

interviews are my job.

2006-05-01T22:44:00.000-04:00

The interview process can start to fill like a job. I had an interview 2.5 weeks ago, but didn't get the teaching position. I had another interview today. I'm just praying God will put me where he wants me. I should know something by the end of the week. It is either for a 3rd grade or a 1st grade position. The principal hasn't decided what position he will open; it depends on if he moves a teacher to the first grade position that teaches in the 3rd grade. I'm subbing at this school all this week, so that may help! :-)

question of controversy.

2006-04-27T20:57:00.000-04:00

I've found this to be a controversial topic over the past couple of years in my life. Never have I questioned this before, but about a year and a half ago someone caused my thinking to shift the other way and I'm not sure if it is a good way. I used to always believe that some people will remain single their whole life, without questioning whether that was biblical or not. (I hold this belief yet again.) For 1.5 years I didn't! Why? B/c I let someone tell me it was wrong and sinful for a woman to be single and not married. Believing that caused me to think wrongly of others, especially single people, (and here I was and am single). Go figure...I was judging myself and others for being single.

So I ask you (those who actually read my blog):
Is a woman sinning if she remains single her whole life long?
Is she sinning if she waits too long to be married?

Just typing those questions sounds ridiculous to me, b/c honestly, where is the cut off line?: "You must be married by 23 or you begin to commit the sin of "singleness"!! How crazy!

You can't put an age limit on it; it's different for everyone. Plus, I believe God is the one who brings a man and a woman together, in HIS TIMING!!

What do you think?
Should every woman be married????
Is it for everyone???

guidelines for rebuke.

2006-04-25T00:15:00.000-04:00

My title isn't really a title nor a statement. Better put- What are the guidelines for rebuke?
I've read the Scriptural texts instructing us about how to rebuke and for what reasons.
However I'm struggling with something along these lines and maybe it shouldn't be a struggle at all.

Is it my place as a woman to rebuke someone's husband if they are sinning against their wife in front of her? In other words, do I remain silent and let him continue to say or do things that are not godly, or just pray that he changes? It has gotten to the point that I don't want to be around this person very much anymore for this reason b/c it causes a lot of grief in my soul and I don't want to tear down my view of marriage that I'm striving to build through either reading/hearing God's Word and through visible godly principles being lived out in people's marriages as they set the true example of marriage. (I don't see very many, sad to say.) I sometimes believe I sin when I just sit and endure it b/c my thoughts begin to get resentful and bitter. (I'm just being honest.) I am not one that wants to ever impose on personal matters between a husband and wife-it truly is their business. However, what do you do when you see it while visiting with the couple?

I don't want to keep from visiting my dear friend, b/c we are close friends, in fact childhood friends. It's tough. I find myself just wanting to visit when I know he isn't around. Am I a terrible Christian for thinking this way? (I may need to be rebuked!!)

Anything Biblical encouragement???

something new.

2006-04-19T20:31:00.000-04:00

Yesterday marks "a first" for me. I had to get glasses! In the 25 years of my life, I've never had corrective lenses. Now I do. Quite an adjustment, but a clearer view.

Miss yall very much 2nd RPers!!!

pittied by a 5th grader.

2006-04-09T00:18:00.000-04:00

The other day, I subbed half a day a fifth grade class and the students wanted me to put my name on the board. They soon discovered that I wasn't married, since I put "Miss". One girl says "Oh, but you have a boyfriend." I correctly informed them that I do not.
A couple of minutes later the class began lining up at the door for lunch. The same girl comes up to me and here is our conversation:
Girl: You don't have a boyfriend?
Me: No.
Girl: Awww, what, does nobody like you?
Me, with sarcasm: No, I guess not.

Then the teacher, which hadn't left yet, said "What?" when she heard me laugh. I told her what the girl had said. (This teacher and I are members of the same church and live in the same town, so we know each other.)

Teacher to girl: She is very picky. She has high standards.
Me to the girl: That's right, and you should be too.

I'm grateful for that compliment the teacher gave me. However, why is it that these young girls think they need a boyfriend and that everyone else does too? It's all about who you like or who likes you at that age and climbing. It's sad, and I mean really sad. We should train them to be godly and to wait. I laughed, at the time, of the silliness in that girls "symathy" over me being boyfriendless and even laughed when I told my best friend and parents, but seriously I'm still deeply disturbed with this wave of lust at such a young age b/c more than this silly conversation I see these kids actions and the way they dress.

pics of hometown

2006-04-08T00:58:00.000-04:00

This is the church building of the church I am a member of. FBC Lavaca.

This is Main Street. Don't blink!

This is the road headed to my house, pass the cemetary which is where my Papaw Bill and cousin are burried, then over the little hill that used to be railroad tracks (My brother and I loved it when the train was passing and we'd have to stop on our way home from school.), then a right then a left then a right then a right. This road looks a little nicer now with the sidewalk they built on the cementary side. This helps out the numerous amounts of accidents that could happen b/c kids are constantly walking on this road and they DON'T get out of the way. It's dangerous! Anyway there is most of the town.
Seriously, the pop is 1,825.

quick update.

2006-04-07T02:56:00.000-04:00

Quick update:
I had an interview this past Tuesday with the Fort Smith Public Schools. It's called an round-robin interview b/c you interview with three different principals at one setting. I have been so upset with myself b/c I should have done better. I analyze like crazy. God is in control. He's been reminding me of the Proverb that says, "Fret not, for it only causes harm." The day before my interview I read this verse, "The king's heart is like a stream of water in the hand of the Lord, he turns it where he wills." I viewed those principals as kings b/c they are my superiors. Anyway, I think you get the point.

Yesterday I just finished my best friend's sister's baby room. She bought the baby's bed comforter and curtain in a ladybug theme. I drew and painted grass, flowers, and ladybugs on the walls. It was such a fun project! It took me around 40 to 50 hours to complete. I would do baby rooms for a living if I could. I discovered that I really really love to paint and especially theme painting. It was a surprise for her; she didn't see it until I was completely finished. When I went to Branson, I found a cute porcelain ladybug tea set, so I had to get it for the baby room. So adorable! Too much fun! However, I was exhausted for about a week and a half, hence why I really haven't updated sooner.

I'm not sure when but I'm planning on, Lord willing, visiting Indy in June or July. I have to kind of wait and see about this teaching position. Sometimes they tell you during those months and sometimes it's not until the week before school starts in August. I'm hoping for the first.

My friend Lora and I started a new small group class on Lord's Day morning. It is for single women 25 to 32. It was a huge need in the church here b/c there is a college class and then a jump to married couples' classes. There was nothing for the age group of women out of college and unmarried. We are going through that book that we started at 2nd RP, "Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life." It has been great! Our numbers are low, but we have a good prospect list. We are just trying to encourage the ladies to join us.

We had a tornado watch this afternoon and evening. I slept through it this evening. ;-P

back from Branson.

2006-03-24T11:42:00.000-05:00

Branson was fun! We went to the Titanic-this new place that is like a museum of the Titanic. It had over 400 artifacts from the ship. It was probably the best thing there.
I saw Chronicles of Narnia...Finally!! I saw it in an IMAX theater. That movie is wonderful!
We went to one show Tuesday night named Pierce Arrow. It was pretty good.
We also hit one of the outlet malls and shopped til we literally almost dropped. (I'm usually not much of a shopper. It was fun though spending time with my dear friend. I'm all for internet shopping. ;-) )

The weather in Branson was soooo cold! It is a pretty day here today, but it has been really cold here too. It's beautiful, but cold.

Thanks friends for commenting. It was great to hear from you Stacey, Jen, and Alyssa. I hope you enjoy your Spring Break Alyssa. I miss yall so much.

mini get-away

2006-03-20T08:50:00.000-05:00

Today my friend Lora and I are heading up to Branson, MO for three days. About 3 years ago, just us two went to Eureaka Springs for a couple of days. It was a very weird and eerie feeling being there. Without giving details about what made us feel strange, I'll just say we're never going there again. No offense to the Weathers' family, b/c I know they were from there, but I think they can agree with me on what I'm talking about. I had been there before as a young child, but I was too young to really notice anything, I guess. Needless to say, we chose Branson this time. :-)

Leave me a comment my Indy friends. I'd love to hear (read) from yall. :-)

prayerful escape route.

2006-03-15T20:21:00.000-05:00

Currently I'm reading An Unexpected Journey by W. Robert Godfrey. It is really neat how you can read someone else's experiences and relate in so many different ways. I learned something new as I read the book today. Godfrey said "History is a mirror that helps us to see ourselves more clearly. It shows us where we have come from and often reveals why we do things." You know when the pastors and elders go into a room to pray together before the service? I saw that practiced at 2nd RP and it's practiced here as well. What started that? Godfrey said that many churchs of the Dutch Reformed tradition practiced this. It is useful, but not required in the Bible. He said apparently the practice develped when some Dutch churches had seceded from the state Reformed church. The church services were sometimes attacked by mobs. The elders started the practice of meeting with the pastor to establish an escape route if things became too dangerous. I thought this was very interesting. There is so much to learn from history even if it's just as simple as why we do things the way we do. I wish I just knew a lot of history...

storms.

2006-03-08T23:07:00.000-05:00

I don't know really why it's storms more than anything else, but they always remind me that God is SOVEREIGN and make me ponder that thought and reality. Standing outside watching lightning and listening to thunder always makes me think of that specific attribute of God!
It's storming right now here in Arkansas, more specifically in "cow-town", and I'm loving it. (I think my mom thinks I'm crazy for liking storms.) :-P
God is sovereign over storms in the atmosphere just as much as He is over the storms in our lives.

Here's a couple of verses I memorized for the complete purpose of reminding myself and believing that God is sovereign:
Psalm 135:5-6
For I know that the Lord is great, and that our Lord is above all gods. Whatever the Lord pleases, He does in heaven and on earth, in the seas and all deeps.

side note: I enjoy the sunshine too!!

psalm 119:34-37

2006-03-06T01:42:00.000-05:00

Give me understanding that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart.

Lead me in the path of your commandments, for I delight in it.

Incline my heart to your testimonies and not to selfish gain.

Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things, and give me life in your ways.

2nd RP deprived.

2006-03-05T18:18:00.000-05:00

Maybe it's deprivation...I don't know. I had like two dreams about attending church services at 2nd RP this past week, one was today during my nap. The surroundings were different, but I knew where I was in the dream-2nd RP. We sang Psalms, so I think they may be the reason I dreamed about it, b/c I miss singing them in services. I don't read into dreams (i.e. prophetic), but I know I dream about things that are on my mind a lot. :-)

I subbed a preschool class in Ft. Smith on Friday. Out of 18 children, there was only one caucasian. There are Asian, African American, and Hispanic. They are precious. I get to go back to that same class tomorrow for half a day.

international dinner.

2006-02-25T00:56:00.000-05:00

(I've been posting quite a bit. I guess I have more time on my hands not working... ;-P )

Today I held a precious baby and watched my best friend's 19 month old while her sister took her own 19 month old to the doctor to discover he has the flu. They are fun!! While babysitting I received a call from a friend inviting me to an international dinner at the university I graduated from.

Before we hit the buffet-style tables full of different kinds of foods from different countries, we paused for a moment of "silence or meditation"...better known as prayer for believers. Then there were several different types of entertainment. Two I especially liked: three Irish girls who did a few Irish dances and three Chinese girls who performed a song and dance. I love different cultures.

missing the Psalm-singing already.

2006-02-22T23:45:00.000-05:00

Before going to church tonight, I sang a couple of Psalms out of the Psalter. :-) I just had too! ;-)
I think I am sad and heart broken more than anything, more than being critical, b/c I want my church family here to sing the Psalms and experience the wonderful treasure of them too.
I love hearing the Psalms being sung and also them being sung acapella much more than one single person's voice on "stage" accompanied by a piano and drum, which drown out all the other worshippers' voices. Just sharing my heart...opinion...preference...whatever.
Treasure those Psalm-singing services, friends...treasure them!! I know yall do. ;-)

back home.

2006-02-22T15:46:00.000-05:00

I already miss yall up there at 2nd RP.

Dad and I didn't leave Louisville until 3:45pm. We had a delay, but I kept remembering that everything happens for a purpose. We couldn't get my couch out of the door without my neighbor opening their door too. They weren't home and the maintenance man left for a while. We had to waste a little over an hour, so I took my dad down where I worked at YUM! b/c I also had to pick up my digital camara batteries' charger. (I knew I'd leave something.) It gave me a chance to show dad where I worked and to meet the people I worked with.

It was a long drive home. We didn't get here until 2am. Dad just wanted to drive staight through. We made it safely though. Thanks for your prayers.

My mom had a beautiful cake and a beautiful vase of red roses on the table for me when I got home. My friends here came over Tuesday night and they celebrated my birthday with cake and ice cream. It was a good time!

This past Lord's Day at 2nd RP was bitter-sweet. It was a great day, but I was so sad. Dad enjoyed visiting. He had nothing but good to say about the people and services at 2nd RP. Of course Dad noticed differences between the services there and here (I knew he would). I sure am going to miss singing the Psalms as a congregation. They are a lost treasure amongst most of our American churches.

Please keep in touch with me. I will try my best to do the same with yall!

spiritual snow

2006-02-18T21:20:00.000-05:00

It is lightly snowing this morning. Most of the ground it white and the rooftops too. I think I love snow mostly because it reminds me of God covering my sin. It is so white and brilliant and when I'm outside when it's snowing or it has just snowed, it's so quiet and peaceful. Just like the peace God creats in our hearts when we know Him as Lord and Savior. Awesome how God created snow and that parallel. Though my sin be as scarlet, He will make it white as snow.
Thank you, God, for the heavenly snow that falls and the spiritual "snow" of forgiveness.

my last week.

2006-02-18T12:15:00.000-05:00

--Normal for my little preschoolers, but surreal for me. They don’t understand the concept of time yet, so my leaving means nothing to them as of now. I was in a state of “is this really happening; am I really leaving?” I received warm good-byes from parents and co-workers.

On Tuesday, I had the best Valentine’s Day ever. Who says you have to have a boyfriend, fiancé, or husband to have a great Valentine’s Day?! I spent time and money on my little Valentines, all 10 of them. We had a party and parents were invited and it was so fun. My kids filled up on sugar and they were sent home with their parents. *grin*

My dad was supposed to fly into Louisville this morning around 11:00, but it was cancelled due to freezing rain back home. I really, really want him here today so he can go to church with me tomorrow, so he did some checking with the airlines and was able (Praise the Lord) to fly into Lexington. I go pick him up around 5pm. I sometimes wonder about the Lord’s providence in these things, not that it isn’t there, but the why’s and reasons. I will just accept His plan in this delayed flight, b/c I want my dad on a safe flight. It has also giving me opportunity to just sit in bed and read God’s word and write in my journal as I look out the window at the beautiful snow falling. I would have to be getting ready right now if dad’s original flight was still on schedule. I believe I needed this time to read, think, pray, and reflect. Thank you, God, for you always know what I need.

My dad and I will head back to Arkansas sometime Monday. Due to the flight delay, we can’t get a Uhaul until Monday, b/c they close at 1pm today. Oh well, that is another thing I am thankful for, b/c I was thinking that we could possibly stay for the evening service now that we don’t have to get up so early on Monday morning. ☺ Monday is my birthday and it will be spent traveling all day, but I must not complain, b/c I will be spending it with my dad!

I’m really going to my 2nd RP, please know that those of you that read this. I will miss the fellowship of the sweet, godly people there. There is so much I will miss.

change of plans.

2006-02-11T15:06:00.000-05:00

I am very sad to say that I am not moving to Indianapolis now. This past week I decided to move back to Arkansas for specific reasons. I am still struggling inside with all of this, but I believe it is best to make peace with my family back home before I make a move that could be long-term.

reminiscing tahoe.

2006-02-04T16:31:00.000-05:00

Snow is so beautiful. As I walked back and forth several times across the parking lot this morning (doing laundry, not a morning exercise routine), the snowflakes flew into my face (some up my nose and in my eyes). It was absolutely refreshing! The air is peaceful and quiet...I love it! Just smelling the snowy air reminds me of my semester in Tahoe City, California. It snows so much there. It is 15 miles from a ski resort, Squaw Valley, which is where the 1960 winter Olymics were held. Anyway, I miss the snow covered Ponderosa Pines, the days we took to kids out to play in the snow and build snow men, and the afternoons we went sledding down the streets. I don't however miss waking up at 6am to shovel it for a couple of hours. After I left Tahoe to go back home, my mentors out there said that Squaw Valley in some places had accumulated 12 to 18 feet in some places. I can't imagine that much snow.
In regards to my last post, IF I do get married, I think it would be simply lovely to get married on a day after a good snow. :)

age matters when single?

2006-02-03T05:28:00.000-05:00

Finally, parent teacher conferences are over for me. They all went really well. That prayer was answered. This is my first time to ever do a real PTC. In college we had to do pretend ones and video tape ourselves. I think that was worse than the real thing. It was good to get to sit down and talk to the parents of my little preschoolers, but the preparation for the conferences wore me out. Now that those are over, I must start on my other work. Thankfully I have Fridays off and I can't rest up a bit before I go at it again.

I've been meaning to post this for a couple of weeks now, but just haven't had a chance.
I've been thinking about this whole "age" issue and how it seems that age really matters to those that are single more than those that are married. I thought maybe it was just me, but I really don't think I'm alone in thinking this way. It seems to me that we focus so much on how old we are getting as an unmarried person that we forget to use this time of singleness for preparation. Another thought of mine is...Why does it matter what age a person gets married? Does it really? Well, absolutely not. It doesn't! Some of our family or friends, or peers make it out to be a big deal. (Thankfully my parents don't.) Even our culture sabotages our thinking that young brides are more beautiful than old. Girls, surely I'm not the only one that is persuaded to think that stupid lie.
Back home, I have four, what I consider, best friends. Three are married, and one of those already has a 19 month old. The other friend almost got married this past December. Do you see where my silly thought of "Always a bridesmaid, never a bride" derides from. (Side note: I have four bridesmaid dresses in my closet back home, all different colors if someone needs a formal.)
So, why is age such a big deal to us? I'm just going to be honest here. We, girls, just don't like the thought of being 30 and not married. lol. I was talking to my friend Lora back home (the one that almost got married). We are like twins; we are so much alike. She has already turned 25, and I'm fixing to in 17 days. We were talking about this very same topic about not wanting to be 30 or over by the time we get married. Although, as I shared with her, I'd rather be 30 and married to the right person, than under 30 married to the wrong person.

I think I'm getting to point of overcoming this thinking that I have to get married in my 20's, praise the LORD! If it happens it happens. We must wait on the Lord!!

reflections on the cross.

2006-01-31T22:19:00.000-05:00

Friday I was reading Matthew 27 and after I read the part about Jesus being mocked (v. 27-31) I stopped to reflect the awesomeness of what He went through and what He has done for me. My focus was changed from reading the words to the whole page and I saw a shadow image of the cross that my window frame cast on that page. I was sitting at the perfect angle for one of the square frames to look like a cross. I'm not trying to be weird or read into something because I saw a cross on the Bible while I was reading that specific part of His life and death. It just made me smile. I just thought it was neat.

cya winter conference.

2006-01-17T01:23:00.000-05:00

What a great weekend! It was my first time to attend this conference. As I try to reflect on all that God taught me and other things throught out the weekend that encouraged me, I can't possibly do it all in one sitting. I was amazed at the gospel parallels in Scriptures that God taught me through one of the session and the Lord's Day morning sermon at Kokomo RP. In my up bringing I have been taught that Christ didn't begin at his birth, but He has always been, plus that is what His word says. However, to actually see Him in the Scriptures all through out, namely creation, I am in awe. It just confirms more and more of the continuity of Scripture.

The sessions were very encouraging and convicting. In particular, one thing that convicted me is when the speaker was talking about how we should not idolize a person without even knowing them. Sometimes we get caught up in certain images and they can get our focus off of what we should be doing ourselves in preparing for marriage or whatever God has planned for us. This goes along with the theme verse the speaker used, "I adjure you, O daughters of Jerusalem, by the gazelles or the does of the field, that you not stir up or awaken love until it pleases." I feel like if we are pondering on unrealistic possibilities, or even realistic possibilities we are still playing with the fire of awaking love before it is supposed to be awaken. (Hope that makes sense.) I have done that in the past, and it proved to me that I should not have ever gotten near the fire. I should have never put that person where he didn't belong b/c he ended up being someone that eventually deceived me. I could say so much more about what all I learned this past weekend, but you'll just have to ask me (if you want), b/c it would be a long post.

I feel like I got to know my 2nd RP friends better. I am thankful for friends I can cry with. :)

In one of the session I was reminded of a quote by Elizabeth Elliot in her book called "Let Me Be A Woman". She wrote the book for her daughter before her daughter got married. As we try and remain content in a state of singleness, we must not become longing, unfruitful, anxious people with no living in the here and now. She quotes, "Let not our longing slay our appetite for our living."
She talked also how we should not live as if real living will happen just around the corner, but living is NOW. Right now! So we shouldn't hold on to the thought that when we get married, that that is when "real" living begins. It's hard, I know.

I'm reminded of two Scriptures that encourage me:
Hosea 6:3
Let us know; let us press on to know the LORD; His going out is sure as the dawn; He will come to us as the showers as the spring rains that water the earth."

Matthew 6:33
"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteouness, and all these things will be added to you. (maybe not marriage, but exactly what you need.)

french braids and tears.

2006-01-07T01:44:00.000-05:00

As I was watching a movie tonight that I rented, I felt like french braiding my hair...something I haven't done in years. The girl in the movie had her hair double braided, so I did the same. As I sat there on my couch braiding away, I was reminded of the time when my mother taught me how. I remember her telling me how she learn. She simply learned by watching someone else do it. (We learn many things that way.) Tears begin to roll down my cheeks as I thought about how she taught me not only how to braid my hair, but the many other things she taught me. Every now and then, things like this enter my mind and it makes me emotional.
Something that caught my attention when I was home this past Christmas, was the response my mom gave me when I woke up and asked "What are you doing today?" She replied, "Whatever you are doing." How wonderful is that! (Not to sound conceited.) My whole life my mom has been there for me. She has tried to give me her best and give me what I needed and even what I wanted, but not to the spoiled-child extent. I glad she didn't. Wow, I guess what I'm saying is I miss my mom. :)

Oh, one more quick moment. These tears lead me to the memory of the day I moved into my apartment. My dad had to leave shortly after all my stuff was lugged up the stairs. We spent a couple of minutes up there by ourselves without the help we had, and my dad just cried like I've only seen him do once before. The first time was when I left home to move to Tahoe City, CA for a semester. This time it was him leaving me. It simply breaks my heart and I cry as I type this.

Goodness, I am so loved.

good-bye hank.

2005-12-29T01:44:00.000-05:00

Today, I discovered that my hermit crab Hank has gone to the other side. His shell was holding a lifeless little crab body. I've had Hank since March, so I've had the little critter for a while. His other two house mates already passed on. One back in March, one week after I purchased her. We burried Brooke. Then the other right before I moved to Kentucky.

Hank was my one and only pet. I took him to school to share with the preschoolers, which they loved giving him a bath.

Hermit crabs have a life expectancy of 20 years. I must have bought Hank when he was 19 years old or something.
It just won't be the same. I remember when he got lost in the classroom. I didn't find him until 5 hours later. Good times, good times.

I'm not sure what was the cause of death. He may have died b/c he missed me while I was gone 10 days. *shrug* All I know is he had plenty of food. Maybe he didn't get misted while I was gone-they like it to be moist in their atmosphere. Well, Hank will be missed, but not his smell.

praise the LORD.

2005-12-23T15:31:00.000-05:00

Tonight I went to the movies with a dear friend of mine. It was a decision between Pride and Prejudice, Chronicles of Narnia, and Cheaper By the Dozen 2. We went with the last one. It was so cute and pretty funny.

Here's a blessing... Yesterday I went to the doctor to see if I could get an antibiotic for this cold that I've had for almost 2 weeks. Since my insurance doesn't kick in until January, I was going to have to pay for the prescription...so I thought...
The doctor went in the back to check and see if they had any samples left to give out and Praise the LORD, she did! She said it was a $120 antibotic, so I am very thankful she gave me samples. :)

Another PRAISE. My pastor's wife had to have some tests done yesterday b/c earlier this week they found a brain tumor and a corraded artery. Today we found out that the tumor isn't anything to be concerned about at all. They just need to remove it b/c it is causing her eye to twitch and wink. Also instead of 1 corraded artery she has 2, but it must not be an urgent matter for surgery b/c she is having surgery in February. It was a surprise to us all, but we knew it was all in God's hands and that it wasn't a surprise to Him at all.

God bless.

lovely wedding.

2005-12-19T20:52:00.000-05:00

The wedding Saturday afternoon was quite lovely. It was a beautiful union between two people that I grew up with. He is 29 and she is 21. We now know why he had to wait so long. He was waiting on the girl God had for him, and he did well in the waiting and God blessed him. It is neat to see how God brings two people together for His glory to serve Him.

My friend's and I joke about the "always a bridesmaid, never a bride", but I'm starting to believe it! ;) lol.

The flights home were good. I didn't get to watch to beautiful sunrise that I was looking forward to b/c it was so foggy. It was cool though how the pinkish-orangeish- sun beamed through the gray fog. Another cool thing is I could see the jagged line where it was day in one part of the sky and night too. I also got to talk to a man on the plane about what I've been reading and got to share a little bit of my testimony and beliefs. That is another thing I like about flying. You can get into some really neat conversations with all kinds of people.

On the plane I also finished my book, "Sing the Lord's Song", well two pages shy of finishing. It feels great to finish a book, but one thing I don't like getting caught up in is reading a book for the sake of just "gettin' it done" so-to-speak. No point in reading it if I have that attitude. So I slowly read it (if the guy next to me watched me read it, he'd think I was the slowest reader in the world). The reading of the book came in very timely too. Yesterday during the morning sermon, which was preached from James 5:13-14. The message in God's Word did convict me about how I need to be praying more. However, it brought more of a confusion...well maybe not a confusion, but a questioned mindset AND an encouragement to keep seeking out and studying this area of worship. In the sermon it was slightly touch on- the topic of the exclusive use of psalms. I prayed before the service that God would open my heart and mind and speak to me through His Word in the sermon. So, I questioned a little if I needed to believe word-for-word what was said in the sermon, b/c what I had studied and read prior to this past Lord's Day did not line up with what was preached. (So now a million thoughts run through my mind.) I do not consider myself to be more spiritual than a preacher, especially one who has been through lots of school and has studied more than me, but I just can't seem to rest at the thought that they could be wrong and I need to further seek this out myself. I don't want to sound disrespectful toward a man of God that I believe is a good preacher, nor am I rejecting the wisdom that can be gained from hearing good preaching. He is the one I grew up with for most of my life. I love him and his family. All I am saying is that I just can't believe any and every preacher word-for-word and take what they say as IT, but along side in my personal life seek out some things. If we are only being fed on the Lord's Day, and not during the week, then it can lead to some serious issues. One issue for me is the very fact that I struggle with why I believe what I believe. This is one area I think I have failed in. I am definitely needing a Bible study group during the week, b/c I need the study, encouragement, growth, and fellowship with other believers. I don't have that at all in Louisville. I know I'd have that if I moved to indianapolis or if I moved home. I just know I NEED IT!

So now continues my pursuit...

I love singing Psalm 143. and Psalm 20B....and Psalm 103A haha! I thought it was so neat how we sang all three of those my last Lord's Day evening at 2nd RP. Those are the ones I'm trying to memorize singing.

Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. PSALM 143:10

finals.

2005-12-15T09:40:00.000-05:00

How are those final exams going? I've been thinking about yall and praying that they would go well. This is to my 2nd RP friends.

aaaaaachooooooooo!

2005-12-14T03:52:00.000-05:00

I finally got one! A cold! There is a case of walking pneumonia going around the children's center. Hopefully I won't get that. I've been trying for 4 to 5 weeks now to get my kids to cover their nose and mouth with their elbow when they sneeze and cough. Slowly, but surely we are getting there. Today I sprayed them with a little water bottle to show them what it's like to be sneezed on and how all our tiny germs can get on each other and make us sick. They thought it was funny, but I think they got the idea.

It snowed this morning for a little bit. Nothing like the beautiful blanket of white that Indianapolis has. I thought it looked so beautiful this past weekend. Arkansas got some snow last week, but it never lasts. Maybe there will be some on the ground when I go home this Friday.

I fly home this Friday at 6:31 a.m. I don't look forward to getting up that early, but I look forward to seeing the sunrise!!

Psalm 113:1-3
Praise the Lord!
Praise, O servants of the Lord,
praise the name of the Lord!
2 Blessed be the name of the Lord
from this time forth and forevermore!
3 From the rising of the sun to its setting,
the name of the Lord is to be praised!
4 The Lord is high above all nations,
and his glory above the heavens!
5 Who is like the Lord our God,
who is seated on high,
6 who looks far down
on the heavens and the earth?
7 He raises the poor from the dust
and lifts the needy from the ash heap,
8 to make them sit with princes,
with the princes of his people.
9 He gives the barren woman a home,
making her the joyous mother of children.
Praise the Lord!

i want snow!

2005-12-09T05:50:00.000-05:00

It snowed and rained, snowed and rained yesterday while at work. It turned into a slushy mess, but thankfully it wasn't freezing and slippery out there when I went home.
While it was snowing, one of my 3 year olds thought that the snow was brown. I guess b/c when it was falling, the constrast between the white sky and the flakes, plus looking through the window made the snow look brown. After watching it snow for a while, he saw two man walking down the sidewalk removing the snow and laying salt with a little thing with wheels (whatever they are called). The little boy comes up to me and says, "Something terrible is happening outside!! Someone is taking all the snow. They are probably going to go make a big snowman." He said this with an expression of major concern and almost saddness. When his dad picked him up, the little one told his dad that he wanted to go outside and eat the snow flakes falling, but since they were brown he didn't want to. ;)

I was thinking that I probably could make my blog just a blog of kid quotes, b/c with as many funny and interesting things that they say, I could write a book. I could possibly write a book on one child in particular just full of her wild sayings and thoughts.

Ahhh, nothing like a day off of work!!

thank you, God. thank you Apple.

2005-12-08T00:18:00.000-05:00

Sometimes a laugh like this one...
We were sitting at the table eating lunch at preschool and one of the five year olds asks randomly, "Miss Ariel, are you married?" I responded with a grin, "No, I'm not." Then the child said, "You better hurry and get married so cute, little babies can come out of you." I couldn't believe it. How funny is that? I've heard many things from the children, especially this child, but never this. Well hopefully someday, but not right now. At least she has the order right: marriage, then children. In this day and age, the reverse order is okay.

Well, Apple has come through for me again. I thought she (my ibook) was going to have to see the Apple doctor. Thankfully, the nice Apple consultant was able to help over the phone. My computer was dead when I got home Sunday night, absolutely dead. Say good-bye to e-mails, blog post updates, working at home for work-related responsibilities...the last one definitely isn't my favorite to do, but it is still a must. Actually I prayed about it and God used the nice Apple consultant. Isn't that the way I should look at it, since I believe God is in control of everything?!

The three books I bought came in the mail last week. Two of them are about exclusive psalmody and the other is called The Scottish Covenanters. As some of you know, singing Psalms is new to me. Well, the first time I ever heard of such praise was last fall. You know how they say, "It's the best thing since sliced bread"? Well, I can't say that because that was before my time, plus it doesn't even give the right weight on what singing the Psalms is and means in our lives. So, I'll just say, discovering the Psalms that are sung in the worship of God is one of the best things God has providentially worked into my life. I'm wanting to learn more about the case for such praise, especially since it isn't the way I was brought up. Plus I want to learn a little bit of history about the Scottish Covenanters.

Well, it's suppose to snow tomorrow. Hopefully I will still be able to drive up to Indianapolis this weekend.
Have a great day!!

wonderful time at home.

2005-12-03T20:41:00.000-05:00

I know I haven't posted in a while, but it's been crazy, busy since I've been back from Arkansas. (I'm sure not many read my blog anyway to care. haha!)

I was so excited to go home for Thanksgiving, and it was a wonderful time with my family and friends. Mom fixed my favorite meal Sunday afternoon. Spaghetti!! She also put an extremely comfortable matress cover and pillow on my bed. She purposely did it for me. That was so sweet of her. My dad, without me asking or anything, fixed the legs on my suitcase which the airport people broke off the first time I used that suitcase. Growing up, I always believed dad could fix anything...and well, he can! On Thanksgiving I got to do what I love to do when I go to my Nannie and Grandpa's house: sit in my Nannie's lap. Childish I know, but who cares. I love her!

I also went to a bridal shower for one of my friends that is getting married in a couple of weeks. I'm one of her bridesmaids. Ya know the saying, "Always a bridesmaid, never a bride"? Well, I'm starting to believe it's true. *shrug* I'm happy to be celebrating with her this wonderful time in her life.

I love to fly in airplanes. My favorite part is taking-off. There is just something strange about seeing the ground get lower and lower and soon you're in this huge, metal object soaring in the sky. :) On my way to Arkansas, I got to watch the sunrise, which was so awesome. I am posting a picture. On the way back to Kentucky it was dark, and I looked up taking a break from reading and saw some flickering in the distance. I was like, "Is that lightning?" That started to make me a little nervous, but I just prayed and went back to reading and occasionally stared out the window. It was strange on that flight, b/c it seemed the ration of men to women was 20:1. There were older men all around, front, back, and to the side. I was starting to think they sectioned off the plane men in back, women in front, but I didn't get the memo.

One of the dads of the little preschoolers I teach told me this past week that every night he prays with his sons and they say their prayers too. He said Ethan, my preschooler, was praying for his family and then his dad heard him say, "Miss Ariel". Not once but twice in the same prayer he prayed for me. I think that is just so great. I like getting to know the parents and how they raise their children. A couple of weeks ago is when I found out this child comes from a Christian family.

prayer request.

2005-11-22T01:49:00.000-05:00

As many of you may know, I'm thinking and praying about whether I should move back home to Arkansas or more to Indianapolis. This is the toughest decision I think I've ever had to make. I want to do God's will. Whatever He wants me to do, I pray it will be clear and I pray my heart is willing still.

I'm so excited and can't wait to go home this Thursday morning. Thanksgiving Day is my favorite 'holiday' of the year. I can't wait to see my family and friends for it has been over two months since I last saw them. Pray my flights go well, because I really enjoy flying and I don't want anything to ruin that. ha! I will return on my Monday night, so I will not be at 2nd RP this coming Lord's Day. I will miss being with yall.

I have a more specific prayer request in regards to my decision. I am praying toward this time spent at home to help confirm this decision. I pray it will be clear when I'm there. *screaming* I just don't know what to do! *end of screaming* No, really, I'd appreciate your prayers. I will be in prayer for yall while I'm in Arkansas.

(Alyssa, I look forward to discussing that topic with you. I ordered a couple of books tonight online that I am looking forward to reading in respect to the topic.)

the typing rain.

2005-11-15T20:21:00.000-05:00

Due to the "tornado warnings", Yum! Brands decided to let the entire building go home at 3:00pm. I got home a little after 4pm. I'm glad nothing is really happening here other than strong winds, and I'm glad I got to go home early.

Now, time to be productive with this extra time. Usually I'd like to just crash in the bed and catch up on lost sleep, but it seems I got enough last night as I fell asleep to the rain beating on my roof and windows. As I lied there on my couch reading, it was like someone was outside my window typing a letter or something. The pitter-patter of rain sounded like someone was busy writing a paper that was due the next day in class; much like my days in high school and college pulling those all-nighters trying to type as fast as I could.

As I lied in bed I kept thinking about the events in my life that led me to the point I am in life now. It is amazing to think about "what ifs", but that can also drive you crazy. "If I had done this instead of that, then this would have probably happened..." Ahhh...okay stop, Ariel. Just go to sleep and trust in God's sovereignty in all things.

*sigh* I need to go be productive now.

cussing.

2005-11-10T22:42:00.000-05:00

I have grown up under the belief that there are "bad" words. Words in which a "good" person would not say, ya know. Then about a year ago I was faced with something, without going into detail, that rocked that world of thinking. So, my question is:
Is cussing wrong?

In our culture, it definitely is viewed as such and frowned upon. I know I don't like hearing perverse and ugly words, mainly because of what some imply.
The following verse is one that I've heard and somewhat used myself when thinking about the words we speak and some of the "ugly" words that some may speak. However, I've heard that this verse isn't refering to cuss words at all, but something about the perversity of things we talk about, not the actual words used to express a feeling or thought. Does that make sense?
Eph. 5:4 Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving.

For me I can not help but notice when I've heard a "cuss" word. They just stand out to me, and that is largely due to my upbringing of not hearing it in my home nor using them in my talk with others. But, is that to say it's wrong?

I'm only asking and here is why...
I know Christians who do not have a problem with using profanity, even in the extreme sense. It is easy to label people, which is wrong, in that we may think "He/she cusses, therefore they must not be a Christian." Ever thought that? I have; I'll be honest. But why do such words offend me so much and make my skin crawl?

So back to the original question: Is cussing wrong? Or really, is there such a thing as "cussing" if they are just mere words with strong expression and meaning?

I read an article once online titled "To Cuss or Not to Cuss?" It was very interesting in light of all of this. Maybe I can find it again and post it.

I do not cuss in the sense of what we think of as cussing. But when we/I stop and think about words such as "darn" or "gosh" or even "dang", how are they not viewed as "cuss words" like the others...and you know what I'm talking about, I'm sure.

quote.

2005-11-10T02:47:00.000-05:00

Christianity is not a set of behaviors, but a transformed heart. ~John Piper

Romans 12:9-13
9 Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. 10 Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. 11 Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. 12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. 13 Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.

get this. (I almost forgot to share)

2005-11-08T00:52:00.000-05:00

God bless these people...
Two Lord's Days ago, I talked to my Nannie and parents on the way back to Kentucky and they told me that someone found my Arkansas driver's license that was stolen and mailed it to my home in Arkansas. :-O
Then this past Saturday when I got home from the job training there was an envelop on top of my mailbox from Speedway Super America. I was like, "Why would Speedway being mailing me something?" (Speedway is the gas station I use.) Anyway, I open it up and it's my apartment keys and old mailbox key. :-O :-O Someone found them, mailed them to Speedway b/c I had the Speedway keychain cards on my key ring, and they mailed them to me. How great is that. Although my locks where changed the night they were stolen, but still.
I'm really glad my license isn't still floating out there, b/c I didn't like the thought of someone having my picture and name.

Lord's Day blessings.

2005-11-08T00:22:00.000-05:00

First off... yesterday was such a wonderful day. The Lord's Day was great, from beginning to end. I really enjoyed "Little Bear" Wheeler during the Sabbath School hour. I sadly didn't get to attend Saturday evening due to a job training in Georgetown, KY. I wish I could have after hearing him yesterday morning. I thought is was so interesting; I just wanted him to keep going. It was such a good blessing to hear from Heather about Sudan and the work going on there. That was another means by which God used to change my heart and perspective about missions. His Spirit blessed and convicted me both.
When "Little Bear" talked of the 105 year old man stating that the one thing that stood out the most in his long life time being the decline of respect in young people (stated something like that), I couldn't oppose. It really is amazing how it is not just teenagers that I've seen this disrespectfullness in, but I've seen it in the ages I work with. I know I have to be patient and understand that my children are in that stage in life that they are learning so many things. On the other hand, sometimes I just see no fear of authority at all within them. Not that I want them to be afraid of me, but I want them to understand and learn what authority is and that it is something to be respectful towards and respectful of and the ways in which we can be respectful.
I know I fail everyday at acknowledging the authority of Christ over my life. I see myself sometimes being to God like my 3, 4, and 5 year olds are being to me. If that makes any sense.

Sometimes I fail to truly see my little students as people. They are literally like sponges. Every word is taken in by some and every action is observed even if you don't think so. They are little people that need to be taught the difference between right and wrong or as Romans 12:9 states "Abhor what is evil and cling to what is good." (and of course, so much more) Even though I can't teach them to glorify God and enjoy Him forever which is my desire, I do want to lay down biblical principles, unaware so-to-speak.

The evening sermons on the fruit of the Spirit have been so helpful in focusing my mind. I want to say I display them all everyday, all the time, but, it is not true. I'm struggling, but trying to not be a complainer at work, especially in front of my non-believer co-worker. Sometimes I believe the lie that since I don't agree with the discipline philosophy I have room to complain and rant about it. Good grief! My job is where I spend most of my time when I'm awake. This is my place to display the fruit. I'm not exempt.

Since I also missed the conference due to the job training, Pastor Johnston and family generously purchased the tapes for me. I started listening to them on the way home last night and on my way to work this morning.... Oh goodness! Talk about making you think. I love it! May God help me understand.

Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. 1 Cor. 15:58

Lake Tahoe.

2005-11-04T03:08:00.000-05:00

This was where I lived last fall. It is one of the most beautiful places I've ever been to.

quiz results.

2005-11-02T22:50:00.000-05:00

You have the eyes of a hawk. You're very much aware
about your surroundings and the situations that
you're in. People can't touch your things
because you would immediately notice what's
been touched or what's missing. You can analyze
people's thoughts and actions quite well.
That's good for you. Don't lose that sharp
vision of yours.

What Animal Eyes Do You Have?
brought to you by Quizilla

I didn't like the responses about answering the phone at 3am. I'd definitely answer if I knew the number on my caller i.d. Actually I'd probably answer if I didn't. *shrug* I'd try to be nice and coherent as much as possible too.

one of the most beautiful sounds.

2005-11-01T00:43:00.000-05:00

Saturday night at the Koss' farm on the hayride many were singing Psalms. We started singing Christmas songs, which Jingle Bells was our first and last to sing. I'm so glad God put it in the hearts of those on the ride to sing Psalms. Even though I didn't know the words (I only know the words to one, but I'm workin' on it.), it was just awesome sitting there listening to the beautiful sound of those around me singing God's word. The best I could do was catch onto the tune and hum. I'm sure God was pleased and honored when He heard those words He himself gave us being sung back to Him.

Now with the time change this is my view going to work. Isn't God the best artist EVERRRRRRRRRRR!!!

my new love.

2005-10-28T22:05:00.000-04:00

I have fallen in love with singing the Psalms. I can't begin to tell you how excited I am about it. A year ago I didn't even know that there was such a thing as a Psalter or even congregations that sang Psalms verse by verse. Every week I look forward to singing from the Psalter. I can't wait to see what Psalms we are going to sing. In addition to worshipping God with His Word, what better way to learn God's Word than by singing it! I'm jealous (in a good way) of those that grew up with this treasure, b/c there are many I'm sure who have several Psalms memorized by now.
This past Spring Break, I started memorizing Psalm 119. One of my most favorite Psalms. That Psalm has become one of my most central focuses in my prayers. I love it!!

Those who are going to the hayride at the Koss' Farm, see ya there!! ;)

yeah.

2005-10-27T23:49:00.000-04:00

It's the weekend for me!!
The kids at the center are dressing up tomorrow and going around the building collecting candy. They, I'm sure, will look cute in their costumes (as long as they are not devils and witches). Mine are mostly going to be "princesses" and I have one "fireman". I, however, am sleeping in, saving gasoline, and getting most of my stuff done so I can head to Indianapolis Saturday afternoon.

Oh, while I'm thinking of it...can someone tell me how I add the names of yall to my blog so I can just click on your name. I keep having to find your name in my past post comments to visit your blogs. Thanks to those who can. :)

:edit: 11:06p.m.
Have you ever just been to the point or place that you just don't understand why something is happening? (Sure you have.) Well, I am there. I am just so stupid sometimes, that's for sure. Some of the events that have taken place in my life over the past 13 months just blows me away at times. I have within me that fire to persevere and at the same time the cowardly spirit to crawl into a deep hole for days. I do believe that God is sovereign... Praise God I believe that. However, I sometimes question if it is my own stubborness that has brought me to this point and I need to just wake up. You probably..well more than likely don't know what I'm talking about...hey!, sometimes I'm not even sure what I'm talking about.
I'm praying for wisdom and purity of heart. I'm also praying against an apathetic spirit. I pray that is far from me. Please pray for me, if you think of it.

questions regarding covenantal signs.

2005-10-25T01:31:00.000-04:00

I know this is my second post in the same day, but when questions come to me I have to act on them quick or I'll forget what I'm seeking after or my thoughts become more muddy. I'm seeking knowledge in asking the following questions, my friends.
(*clearing throat* Pastor Faris if you could help in answering these. ) I'd like for any and all to comment. :)

Tonight I was reading back through a previous lesson in this Bible study I purchased called the Covenant of Grace by J. G. Vos. It was the lesson on The Covenant of Grace and Infant Baptism. Most of you know I am from a Southern Baptist Church. Born and raised. Infant Baptism isn't accepted as one of the baptistic practices, that is for certain. They do hold baby dedication, which seems the same to me except no water is involved. Anyway, I was reading through the passages outlined for this particular lesson. First it is stated that the children of believers are included with their parents in the CofG. Also, under the Old Testament, the appointed sign and seal of the CofG was the rite of circumcision.
I'm pretty convinced of the administration change from the OT to the NT, circumcision to baptism. I can see how that connects beautifully. As I was reading Genesis 17:7-14 about God speaking to Abraham about the covenant He is establishing between Him and Abraham and his offspring, something stirred in my thoughts that raises a question. In verses 10-14 God is telling him that every MALE shall be circumcised in the flesh of their foreskins and that is the sign of the covenant. God even extended this command to not just males born in the household, but any bought with his money from any foreigner who is not of his offspring. Both shall be circumcised.

So here is my first question: Being that circumcision and baptism are related, how do females fit into this picture? Female babies are baptized now, but were they circumcised in the OT? If not, then how is it okay now, but not then...or maybe I should say required?

Moving on to my next thought. Verse 14 says, "Any uncircumcised male who is not circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin shall be cut off from his people; he has broken my covenant."
After reading how serious God is with this covenant He has established because of how often it is repeated "this is my covenant which you shall keep, between me and you and your offspring after you..." God makes it clear HE is establishing this covenant. Futhermore, God put in a promise of this particular covenant which is stated in verse 14. The male who is not circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin is cut off from His people and is a covenant breaker. God isn't that a little harsh? Well, not really, since He is the one who is God and calls the shots and establishes all this simply because He wants to.

So, here is my question: If God is so serious about this covenant, which I believe He is, and its external sign being put on human flesh during this OT time, then under the New Covenant are those who forsake the infant baptismal sign covenant breakers? or am I reading into this all wrong??

I'm only trying to understand all this more clearly and the only way I know to do that is to ask questions.

be slow to speak, Ariel.

2005-10-24T23:04:00.000-04:00

"Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble." Proverbs 21:23

So many times I've failed to do just that and it has brought me trouble. When will I learn?! I had read this verse Friday, so it was encouraging to receive it from God's word then, and again on the Lord's Day by one of His servants. Blogs can be a good place to write about my passions in life, but also a horrible place for me to rant about things. I must be careful.

This past Lord's Day was wonderful! Every week I look so forward to meeting with the church. God has been teaching me so much through His word during the services. It was also great hearing the salvation testimonies prior to the Lord's Supper service. It amazes me how there are so many different testimonies, but not one can nor should be attributed to our own doing. It's all God no matter what the situation, whether you've grown up in a Christian home or never entered the door of a church for years. It's is definitely God who changes hearts.

This past weekend I tried to post some pictures that were taken in China, but this blog was being all silly with the captions, so I'll try again some other day. For now, here is one of my most favorite things about the trip...getting to walk up to strangers and ask them without words if I could hold their precious little Asian baby. :) (The baby doesn't look all that happy to have been taken from her mother. )

preference or idolatry?

2005-10-21T00:17:00.001-04:00

Ok, here are a couple more questions...

On the subject of whether or not instruments should accompany singing in the worshp of God:

1. Can we say it is a preference?
2. If it is not a preference and it is explicit in Scripture not to use them, then would it be considered idolatry if they were used?

Tonight I went and bought Chinese for dinner. :) It had already started to rain pretty good, but that didn't stop me. As I sat there waiting on my food, looking out the open door of the food place, watching the rain, I reminisced of my time in China last summer. I just can't get over how much I like that place and Asian people. For a while now, I've had the desire to adopt a Chinese girl. Lord willing that I get married and my husband shares the same desire, it will happen.

JAMES 1:2-3
"Consider it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness."

two questions.

2005-10-20T00:32:00.000-04:00

1.) Of which of the following should we read the Bible and live by it:
a. "I can do "this" or "that" b/c the Bible doesn't explicitly say I can't.
b. "I can't do "this" or "that" b/c the Bible doesn't give warrant.

That may be confusing. I'm not sure how to explain. There are so many "gray" areas it seems in life.
For (a.) here is an example: I can ride a bike, go to college, wear pants (as a woman), etc. b/c the Bible doesn't say either way specifically. Yes, those are trivial things, especially riding a bike. BUT, if that is carried out, I find this... Many churches do whatever they want without warrant in Scripture b/c it doesn't specifically say not to. Hope that makes the question clearer.
For (b.) I find fault as well.
Which is it?? A. or B. or Both due to reasoning and logic

2.) If you were faced with having to choose between the way your parents brought you up, your church background, the possibility and fear of dishonoring your parents AND choosing a different path that seems to you more Biblical than what you've always known, what would you do?
a. Should you honor your parents and do what they want? (The Bible teaches us that we should honor our parents.)
b. After seeking their blessing, but being denied of that blessing, should you continue on the path you've taken that seems
more Biblical?

Yea!

2005-10-15T01:15:00.000-04:00

I now have a driver's license!! Yeah!! Prior to getting my new Kentucky license, I got my SSN card situation taken care of and it will be mailed to me soon. I got quite a bit done today and the day went better than anticipated.

What is this passage really teaching?
Luke 5:17-26
Jesus Heals a Paralytic
17 On one of those days, as he was teaching, Pharisees and teachers of the law were sitting there, who had come from every village of Galilee and Judea and from Jerusalem. And the power of the Lord was with him to heal. [1] 18 And behold, some men were bringing on a bed a man who was paralyzed, and they were seeking to bring him in and lay him before Jesus, 19 but finding no way to bring him in, because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and let him down with his bed through the tiles into the midst before Jesus. 20 And when he saw their faith, he said, “Man, your sins are forgiven you.” 21 And the scribes and the Pharisees began to question, saying, “Who is this who speaks blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?” 22 When Jesus perceived their thoughts, he answered them, “Why do you question in your hearts? 23 Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? 24 But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the man who was paralyzed—“I say to you, rise, pick up your bed and go home.” 25 And immediately he rose up before them and picked up what he had been lying on and went home, glorifying God. 26 And amazement seized them all, and they glorified God and were filled with awe, saying, “We have seen extraordinary things today.”

What are possibilities of different applications a person could get out of this portion of Scripture? I've heard of an application I'm not sure is accurate and will share it after I get some responses.
I do believe it shows the power of Christ in healing and having authority to forgive peoples' sins and showing that authority to hypocrites.

busy. busy. busy.

2005-10-14T02:20:00.000-04:00

It's crazy. I have to get specific detailed directions to just about go anywhere in this city. You city folks are used to it. ;) I am getting better though. Mapquest is wonderful!! I used it my whole first two weeks of my new job when I moved here, b/c I'm not used to all the interstates that intertwine. I usually just get on one interstate back home and that's it. My home town pop. is 1,800.
Anyway, I'll be thinking of my 2nd RP friends Saturday while I'm in training.

still drivin' without a license.

2005-10-12T22:36:00.000-04:00

I think the kids at preschool wore me out today. When the children get a 2 hour time slot to take a nap, I get so jealous. They just don't understand how blessed they really are. All of them slept today (usually there are one or two that don't) and I was glad. Anyway, while they were resting their little heads, I had to quickly drive downtown (15 mins. away) to go to the court house to get a new SSN card. Remember mine was stolen. I go down there and there was no way I was getting out of that place soon with a line that long. I only have an hour lunch break. Oh well, at least I found out that the documents to prove my identity are valid and I'll be heading downtown on Friday. I'm still driving around with no driver's license, b/c I have to get the SSN card first.

The thought popped in my head... Since the thief/thieves also stole my ipod (it was in my purse), maybe they will listen to the sermons I had on it and they will get right with God. *grin* Then they'd be convicted of their sin of stealing from me and return all my belongings. I'm sure they hocked it first thing. There were some great sermons on there.

I am starting to work on the paper work for obtaining an Indiana Teaching License. I'm glad I'm getting started now, b/c it's going to be a lengthy process. I'm still praying about whether I should move to Indianapolis or move back home to Arkansas. There are pros and cons to both, of course. The only reason I'd want to move back to Arkansas is b/c my family and friends are there. I don't want to stay here in Louisville b/c I don't have any friends. I work, go home, work, go home...etc. Sometimes I go to the library, but that can get scary going downtown by yourself. Anyway, it will all work out. My week days make me all the more look forward to the Lord's Day!

kids really do say the darnest things.

2005-10-12T02:11:00.000-04:00

Sometimes I like to post things about what my children (students) say to me and to others. (Btw, I teach preschool.)
Today I had my one and only 5 year old crying and crying, b/c she didn't want to be five. She wants to be four years old. After trying to console this child and saying things like "Don't you want to be a big girl?" She responds, "No, I want to be a little girl." (crying still) For about 5 to 7 (maybe more) minutes she cries about wanting to be four. *grin* My supervisor walks in and to inform her that I am aware that this child is crying, I explain the reasoning behind such an emotional state. She says to the child, "Do you want to pretend like you are four?" Child's response: "No, I'm not four. I'm five, but I want to be four." OK, OK, OK!! She wants to be four. I want to be 19 again, but ya know...that just isn't going to ever, EVER happen. I didn't think children even thought about wanting to be younger. They usually always talk about growing up..."When I get big..."

blessed indeed.

2005-10-10T23:44:00.000-04:00

First of all, I had a great weekend. Not only getting to know some people from 2nd RP better at the Progressive dinner, but the Lord Day's was, as always, a blessing. The services are wonderful! I wish I didn't live so far. The discussion over at the Faris's was great too. After I left, I stood in the parking lot with Kim and Katrina for another 30-45minutes or so. I made it back to Louisville at around 1:30 a.m. I left the discussion feeling, yet again, so blessed. God has already blessed me with a good group of girl friends at 2nd RP.

:edit: I just realized I had wrote a whole post about our "discussion" at the Faris', and then I read Alyssa's blog and realized that I am suppose to keep it a secret. I hope no one read what I wrote. It was personal thoughts regarding the discussion, but still I didn't want to over step my bounds. *wink*

On a recent blog (xanga) I put: I'd rather be single than marry an Arminian. Well, tis true!

Can't Complain...really

2005-10-07T00:09:00.000-04:00

A whole lot has happened in my life over the past year, and I couldn't possibly share all the details for this would turn into a novel. For the sake of boring you, I'll just say I'm in a place and experiencing something I never thought in a million thoughts I'd be experiencing. Is it a bad experience? On the contrary, my friends. Maybe I'll post about such events that lead me to moving to my new home away from home, but for now here is my post for the evening...

God is so good. I have been blown away at how He takes care of His children. I've been so blessed more than I could ever have imagined and more than I even deserve. To be specific, my car was broken into last Friday evening. The thief (thieves) broke my driver's side window and stole my purse. I asked myself, "Why in the world would someone want to do that? Why would people be so mean?" Well, Ariel, sin! Sin and it's corruption of man leads us to do such things. I prayed for the thief and just had to move on. I immediately called my dad. He is always there for me. Except this time, my parents and I live in two different states now. They in Arkansas, I in Kentucky. He still though helped. My immediate reaction to the broken glass and being alone was fear. I couldn't stay in that location, but my seat was full of tiny pieces of glass. I still feel the glass shavings poking through my pants even though the glass repair place vaccuumed. I took my flip-flop off and tried to get some glass out of my seat. Then after 30 seconds, I just had to get in and drive while I talked to my dad. God graciously had already begun to take care of me. As I filled the police report out over the phone, it hit me that the thief had my address from my check book and my apartment keys. But, like I said, the details were being taken care of. The night ahead was peaceful despite the circumstances. The night was filled with, not being able to get a hold of a friend who had my extra set of apartment keys, sitting at the top of my steps waiting on something to happen, not being able to cancel my credit cards immeditately, calling identity theft people, my cell phone dying, the inside of my car exposed to more destruction, a gracious neighbor who loaned me her house phone to make calls (Bless her, Lord) and her apartment to stay for almost an hour, getting things cancelled, getting my locks changed, sleeping with three suitcases stacked against my door, and a peace that passes all understanding.

The week has been filled with a thousand phone calls, a trip to the police dept. to pick up my report, and 2 year olds to 5 year olds running wild through out my work day. :) Yet, I can't complain. Things have worked out for the best. I'm currently working on getting a new driver's license (since my Arkansas one was stolen) and another SSN card. I guess getting my license stolen is really pushing me now to get that KENTUCKY license. I need more gas money to go to all these places. ;)

In Christ, all things hold together!

New beginnings.

2005-10-04T01:40:00.000-04:00

I'll be posting soon, but for now I just created this blog.