We live in an ever-growing, ever-changing, ever-evolving society. We want things bigger, better, faster, stronger... yet we fail to take the time to stop and appreciate the beauty in the things that are. Yes, I am guilty of this. I'm always looking on to what's next. Where I'm going to live, what I'm going to do, how I'm going to get to where I want to go, etc... But every once in a while, God gives me a little pinch (believe me, I need it more often than I'd like to admit) and reminds me of how truly blessed I am. I have great family, great friends, a wonderful fiancé, the cutest Chihuahua God ever did create, and everyone is happy and healthy. Honestly, I couldn't ask for anything more. I'm already blessed far beyond what I could ever deserve.
So today I want to list some of the little things I am thankful for:
~ I woke up to the aroma of a fresh pot of coffee brewing from downstairs
~ I had the sweetest little Chihuahua sleeping on my pillow beside me this morning and it made me smile
~ When I got to work, a co-worker surprised me with a whole set of bath products from the Hershey's Factory- that's real chocolate bubble bath, ya'll!
~ I got a cold and delicious Starbucks for lunch complete with a Treat Receipt for later ;)
~ I found a hot pink pair of Nike running shorts to don at the gym later this week- when I feel like working out again
~ I am exactly 1 hour away from being off work and spending the rest of the afternoon with my sweet fiancé and Chloe
~ The sun is out and the weather is beautiful
Life is good- really good!
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Monday, June 28, 2010
I have the BEST...
of everything!
I am so blessed beyond measure and God reminds me of this often. A girl could not want for more. I am incredibly humbled and thankful for all of the blessings that God has bestowed on my life.
That's all.
I am so blessed beyond measure and God reminds me of this often. A girl could not want for more. I am incredibly humbled and thankful for all of the blessings that God has bestowed on my life.
That's all.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
A Recurring Dream...
Okay, so I might be the only person on God's green earth that this happens to... but every once in a while I have a recurring dream. Yes, I might be crazy! It all started with one dream. One idea. One place. One person. Now typically, I don't even remember my dreams. I usually just wake up, wipe the sleep from my eyes and the drool from my mouth and think to myself, "Why can't I be independently wealthy and never have to wake up early again?!?!"
Anyway, back the dream. It all started when I was a freshman in college. I started having this dream. It's one of those that you don't want to wake up from because it is so magnificently wonderful. But it is also one of those that when you do wake up, you wonder why in the world you dreamt it in the first place!!! Try as I may to get rid of this dream, it always comes back. It makes me blissfully happy for about 5 or 6 hours ( depending on what time I finally went to sleep and what time I have to pry myself away from my pillow), and then when I do wake up, I'm left heartbroken and my mind forces me back to reality.
I used to love this dream. I used to wish for it and want for it with all my might. Then I realized that it only hurt me. It played with my heart and then ripped it open. I would begin to wonder if it was a sign of things to come, and then only to be left with the cold reality that it was not to be. It in fact, was just a dream.
As the years have gone by, I haven't had this dream as much. It hasn't come as often, and I am thankful. I had almost even forgotten this little thing that taunts me so...
.. until I dreamt this dream again last night. It was the same as I had always remembered. The place was different, but the idea the same. It was just as wonderful as I had always remembered. Just the same as I had always remembered. ... but when my alarm clock came blaring in and ruining my tiny little moment of bliss, I was left with that same sickening feeling, and my heart ached once again.
I don't know why that dream still haunts me or what lesson might be hiding in there somewhere, but I wish it would go away. I'm afraid it was never meant for me anyway.
Anyway, back the dream. It all started when I was a freshman in college. I started having this dream. It's one of those that you don't want to wake up from because it is so magnificently wonderful. But it is also one of those that when you do wake up, you wonder why in the world you dreamt it in the first place!!! Try as I may to get rid of this dream, it always comes back. It makes me blissfully happy for about 5 or 6 hours ( depending on what time I finally went to sleep and what time I have to pry myself away from my pillow), and then when I do wake up, I'm left heartbroken and my mind forces me back to reality.
I used to love this dream. I used to wish for it and want for it with all my might. Then I realized that it only hurt me. It played with my heart and then ripped it open. I would begin to wonder if it was a sign of things to come, and then only to be left with the cold reality that it was not to be. It in fact, was just a dream.
As the years have gone by, I haven't had this dream as much. It hasn't come as often, and I am thankful. I had almost even forgotten this little thing that taunts me so...
.. until I dreamt this dream again last night. It was the same as I had always remembered. The place was different, but the idea the same. It was just as wonderful as I had always remembered. Just the same as I had always remembered. ... but when my alarm clock came blaring in and ruining my tiny little moment of bliss, I was left with that same sickening feeling, and my heart ached once again.
I don't know why that dream still haunts me or what lesson might be hiding in there somewhere, but I wish it would go away. I'm afraid it was never meant for me anyway.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Jet Skis, Boat Rides, Suntans, and Cookouts... I LOVE Summer!!!!
Now please, let's not get ahead of ourselves here. Fall is and will always be my favorite season. There's something about the leaves changing color, the crisp air when you go outside, and all of the harvest smells that just makes me tingle all over. I feel right at home. - This is why we are getting married in October.
That being said, I haven't always been a big fan of summer. **GASP** Don't freak out. I know I'm weird for it. It always just seemed entirely too hot, I never have a good hair day, and the thought of putting myself in a bathing suit each year gives me a nauseous feeling, and then I become a bit depressed that I wasn't blessed with the metabolism of Heidi Klum or Adriana Lima.
However, over the last couple of years, I have to admit that my summers have been pretty fabulous! I guess I started to realize all of the great things that have to do with Summer. Here, I'll name a few:
~ I can wear white linen pants any day I want to
~ I don't have to scrape ice off of my windshield on my way out the door in the mornings
~ We get to go out on the lake just about every/ every other weekend
~ We get to have cookouts
~ Frappuccinos - need I say more on this one?
~ Big eyed sunglasses
~ It takes us right on into Fall
~ Turquoise jewelry
~ I get a fabulous suntan that makes me not look so sickly pale
~ We do things outside. We're not cooped up inside all the time
~ Flip flops, sandals, shorts, tank tops, etc..
~ ** This one is my favorite*** SUN DRESSES - don't know why, but there is something so wonderful about a sun dress. I feel like I'm wearing a night gown out of the house!
All of these things make me smile every time I think about them. Summer is still no Fall in my book, but it is definitely a close second.
Ahhhhh.... now that's the stuff!
That being said, I haven't always been a big fan of summer. **GASP** Don't freak out. I know I'm weird for it. It always just seemed entirely too hot, I never have a good hair day, and the thought of putting myself in a bathing suit each year gives me a nauseous feeling, and then I become a bit depressed that I wasn't blessed with the metabolism of Heidi Klum or Adriana Lima.
However, over the last couple of years, I have to admit that my summers have been pretty fabulous! I guess I started to realize all of the great things that have to do with Summer. Here, I'll name a few:
~ I can wear white linen pants any day I want to
~ I don't have to scrape ice off of my windshield on my way out the door in the mornings
~ We get to go out on the lake just about every/ every other weekend
~ We get to have cookouts
~ Frappuccinos - need I say more on this one?
~ Big eyed sunglasses
~ It takes us right on into Fall
~ Turquoise jewelry
~ I get a fabulous suntan that makes me not look so sickly pale
~ We do things outside. We're not cooped up inside all the time
~ Flip flops, sandals, shorts, tank tops, etc..
~ ** This one is my favorite*** SUN DRESSES - don't know why, but there is something so wonderful about a sun dress. I feel like I'm wearing a night gown out of the house!
All of these things make me smile every time I think about them. Summer is still no Fall in my book, but it is definitely a close second.
Ahhhhh.... now that's the stuff!
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
IT'S HERE!!!!!!!!!
Okay, I've been in eight weddings, worn eight bridesmaid dresses, and I've worn dozens and dozens of bridal gowns for bridal expos. Each dress, special in its own way, could not ever compare to the feeling I got when I put on MY dress! It was amazing. A moment I will never forget. It has felt like years since I've ordered it, (Keep in mind I only ordered it in January), but it is here! It is really and truly... FINALLY Here!!!
Kyle asked me how many times I think I'll try it on between now and the wedding. I casually replied, "probably only a zillion." Of course that was probably an understatement because I plan on putting it on every time he isn't around! Heck, I might even wear it on the plane the day after the wedding for the entire trip to Hawaii. I may even wear it on the beach when we get there! I love my dress! It is so perfect in every single little way! Kyle might just have to pry it off of me in order just go get me out of it! Of course I'll be kicking and screaming and cursing him the whole way! :o)
I'm going to pick it up tomorrow night. Naturally I'm going to the gym tonight to see what I can do about miraculously getting in shape one day before trying on MY dress! Hey, stranger things have happened!
Also, we booked our flight. Kyle's parents are amazing! They are flying us to Hawaii FIRST CLASS!!! Can you picture it? Me looking like Ellie May from the Beverly Hillbillies sitting in First Class in my wedding gown ordering free cocktails all the way to Hawaii? Yes, I think that sounds fantastic!
Kyle asked me how many times I think I'll try it on between now and the wedding. I casually replied, "probably only a zillion." Of course that was probably an understatement because I plan on putting it on every time he isn't around! Heck, I might even wear it on the plane the day after the wedding for the entire trip to Hawaii. I may even wear it on the beach when we get there! I love my dress! It is so perfect in every single little way! Kyle might just have to pry it off of me in order just go get me out of it! Of course I'll be kicking and screaming and cursing him the whole way! :o)
I'm going to pick it up tomorrow night. Naturally I'm going to the gym tonight to see what I can do about miraculously getting in shape one day before trying on MY dress! Hey, stranger things have happened!
Also, we booked our flight. Kyle's parents are amazing! They are flying us to Hawaii FIRST CLASS!!! Can you picture it? Me looking like Ellie May from the Beverly Hillbillies sitting in First Class in my wedding gown ordering free cocktails all the way to Hawaii? Yes, I think that sounds fantastic!
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
In 3 Years...
Three years ago I started dating my best friend. Today is our anniversary and I've been thinking...
Three years ago, I was a college student. I had been living in a college dorm and getting ready to begin my 4th and final year of school. I was just starting my summer vacation. I was newly single and fiercely independent. I was determined not to date ANYONE for a long time. I was stubborn and I was addicted to Starbucks. I stayed up late and woke up late. I was spontaneous. I got a weekly allowance that I would usually blow on concerts and clothes. I didn't have any worries and stress was a foreign concept to me. I was almost 21 and I had never had one alcoholic beverage. I was in between churches. The biggest concern in my life was what I was going to do with my two months of bliss away from school.
Three years ago, I was completely blindsided. Someone came into my life and knocked me right off my feet. He knew how stubborn I was and he was determined to change my mind and make me his. He was sure that he was going to make himself a permanent fixture in my life. He was relentless and I was determined not to let him have his way. Well, he got me.
Three years later, I have graduated from college. I live on my own. I can only dream of summer vacations anymore. I have fallen helplessly in love for the first time. I have gotten engaged and we are now planning our wedding. I do have to admit that I am still quite stubborn and sadly, my addiction to Starbucks has only worsened. I have had my first alcoholic beverage or two. I have acquired the cutest little Chihuahua in the world. We have found an incredible church home. I have officially retired from the bridesmaid business. I have met some really amazing people and at least one of my best friends. I have grown up a good bit. The invisible bubble in which I liked to live my life has vanished. I pay bills now. I have to actually try to save money these days. I read more. I relax more. I like to stay at home more. 10:00 is my new bed time and my wakeup call occurs somewhere around 6:30-ish each morning depending on how long I decide to "snooze."
Time can change a lot of things in your life. Looking back over just the last three years, my whole world has changed significantly. Who knew that in three years I would be where I am now. I'm incredibly happy. I'm healthy. I still have the most amazing family and friends a girl could ask for. Starbucks is still warming my heart every morning… and afternoon... and sometimes in the evenings or various other times throughout the day. My wonderful life has only become exponentially more wonderful! ... makes me curious as to what it will be like three years from now....
Three years ago, I was a college student. I had been living in a college dorm and getting ready to begin my 4th and final year of school. I was just starting my summer vacation. I was newly single and fiercely independent. I was determined not to date ANYONE for a long time. I was stubborn and I was addicted to Starbucks. I stayed up late and woke up late. I was spontaneous. I got a weekly allowance that I would usually blow on concerts and clothes. I didn't have any worries and stress was a foreign concept to me. I was almost 21 and I had never had one alcoholic beverage. I was in between churches. The biggest concern in my life was what I was going to do with my two months of bliss away from school.
Three years ago, I was completely blindsided. Someone came into my life and knocked me right off my feet. He knew how stubborn I was and he was determined to change my mind and make me his. He was sure that he was going to make himself a permanent fixture in my life. He was relentless and I was determined not to let him have his way. Well, he got me.
Three years later, I have graduated from college. I live on my own. I can only dream of summer vacations anymore. I have fallen helplessly in love for the first time. I have gotten engaged and we are now planning our wedding. I do have to admit that I am still quite stubborn and sadly, my addiction to Starbucks has only worsened. I have had my first alcoholic beverage or two. I have acquired the cutest little Chihuahua in the world. We have found an incredible church home. I have officially retired from the bridesmaid business. I have met some really amazing people and at least one of my best friends. I have grown up a good bit. The invisible bubble in which I liked to live my life has vanished. I pay bills now. I have to actually try to save money these days. I read more. I relax more. I like to stay at home more. 10:00 is my new bed time and my wakeup call occurs somewhere around 6:30-ish each morning depending on how long I decide to "snooze."
Time can change a lot of things in your life. Looking back over just the last three years, my whole world has changed significantly. Who knew that in three years I would be where I am now. I'm incredibly happy. I'm healthy. I still have the most amazing family and friends a girl could ask for. Starbucks is still warming my heart every morning… and afternoon... and sometimes in the evenings or various other times throughout the day. My wonderful life has only become exponentially more wonderful! ... makes me curious as to what it will be like three years from now....
Monday, May 3, 2010
What an Amazing Weekend...... Now What?
God has a funny way of showing up right when you need him... even if you don't know that you need him right then. This weekend was so wonderful and exactly what I needed! I was so overwhelmed with the love of God and for the first time in a long time I felt refreshed. I feel renewed and revived and I am even more in love with my Jesus!
However, this weekend also lead me to think... a lot... and this is what is on my heart...
Every day lately seems to bring a new realization to me that I'm not getting any younger. Don't get me wrong... I'm only 23, but I'm not 22 anymore. I'm not 19 anymore, and I'm not a timid 18 year old trying to figure out what the future holds for her anymore. Now I'm almost a 24 year old who is getting ready to be married and start a family of her own. You might even think that I am a nut for just realizing this....
When I was younger, I had big dreams for myself! I knew that one day I wanted to be in full-time ministry, traveling the world, singing and leading worship everywhere I went. I was 200% sure this is what God had planned for my life! Today the biggest decision I made is whether or not to attend my spinning class tonight at 6:00. When did I go from a teenager with big ambitions to a young adult who just lives day to day life? Is this part of getting older?
A couple of weeks ago, our pastor made a statement that struck through me like a lightning bolt. He said "We can live our entire lives as Christians and STILL miss out on the plan that God has for us." Wow! What a miserable life that would be! I know God has bigger plans for me than the ones that I have for myself. I've always known that. But what are they? How do I get from where I am to where He wants me to be? What is my purpose? Will I ever be that traveling worship leader that my heart longs to be?
I am incredibly happy to be marrying the man of my dreams and I'm counting down the days until I am his and he is mine. But what next? Where do we go from here?
However, this weekend also lead me to think... a lot... and this is what is on my heart...
Every day lately seems to bring a new realization to me that I'm not getting any younger. Don't get me wrong... I'm only 23, but I'm not 22 anymore. I'm not 19 anymore, and I'm not a timid 18 year old trying to figure out what the future holds for her anymore. Now I'm almost a 24 year old who is getting ready to be married and start a family of her own. You might even think that I am a nut for just realizing this....
When I was younger, I had big dreams for myself! I knew that one day I wanted to be in full-time ministry, traveling the world, singing and leading worship everywhere I went. I was 200% sure this is what God had planned for my life! Today the biggest decision I made is whether or not to attend my spinning class tonight at 6:00. When did I go from a teenager with big ambitions to a young adult who just lives day to day life? Is this part of getting older?
A couple of weeks ago, our pastor made a statement that struck through me like a lightning bolt. He said "We can live our entire lives as Christians and STILL miss out on the plan that God has for us." Wow! What a miserable life that would be! I know God has bigger plans for me than the ones that I have for myself. I've always known that. But what are they? How do I get from where I am to where He wants me to be? What is my purpose? Will I ever be that traveling worship leader that my heart longs to be?
I am incredibly happy to be marrying the man of my dreams and I'm counting down the days until I am his and he is mine. But what next? Where do we go from here?
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