I just don't even know where to start regarding MSSR. The whole thing was fantastic, from beginning to end--with one minor snafu in the middle. But I'll get to that. I guess my best bet is starting with my list:
1. First of all, let me first state how hilarious it is to go to one of these conferences. Not hilarious because I'm immature. No, it's hilarious because I get to watch ALL of the Middle Schoolers' faces and see how uncomfortable they feel. They're faces are priceless. And when a picture pops up on the screen of two people kissing? Oh heavens. It's like all hell has frozen over. You just hear this GIANT gasp and then they let out all of their hot air with "EWWW!" BAHA. I literally would just sit during the sessions internally cracking up.
2.My eighth grade girls are literally the best girls I could ask for. Jesus definitely blessed me. I had this completely wack-tastic idea to keep track of them. I decided that instead of doing the "Sound-off! 1-2-3-4..." and so on, it would be more prudent to make a rap. And we showed the boys. Cause we are definitely way cooler than they are. And we won almost ALL the games against them in Battle of the Sexes.
Raptastic:
You have me to thank for the freakin AWESOME lyrics:
"8th grade girls
that is who we are
we are pure
and we don't go very far
we don't go to bars
and we can't drive cars
but we come to VCC
cause that is who we are!"
And you can thank my wonderful co-leader Marianna. Who was amazing at leading and I love her. God also blessed me with her for this cause He knew she'd be good at helping me rein all those girls in.
3. Sleeping at the Vineyard is never an option for me. EVER. I have a horrid night's sleep every single time without fail and this time was not an exception. There was a giant 'gymnasium' type light shining straight into my face so a couple of us high school leaders decided to head into the Conference room in the back of the building. Silly me, thought I'd make a TON of noise if I brought my air mattress back there so I just didn't. Instead I brought a pillow, a blanket, and myself.
Worst idea ever.
Froze to death the entire night and it would've felt better to sleep on the jungle floor. At least there's soft dirt.
So I woke up every hour or so for 5 hours until the next morning when Jesus decided to give me 100,000 V of energy. So thankful for the big Man upstairs. He knew what He was doing. I totally needed that.
Breakfast: An apple, a bite of pancake, a glass of OJ, and a frapp.
Health freak, I know.
4. I just skipped from 2-5 in my list. WAOW. Out of it.
5. Jesus not only showed up for the Middle School students there, but He totally showed up for me. I learned some things about myself that I needed to learn and He told me some things that I needed to hear. I went in there thinking "I'm just here to help guide them into Your arms and in Your path" when in reality He placed me there for me, too. So thanks, Jesus. My King. My Lover. My Prince. My Father. I am YOUR Beloved and I am in absolute awe of you. I don't know any other way to say it. I just wish you guys could feel what I feel.
6. Song of Songs 2:7 "Do not arouse of awaken love until it so desires." That was the theme verse for this whole thing and I have loved it even before I heard it this weekend. It is so true. Do not try to pursue these things on your own. Leave it in the Father's hands and He will bring love around to you at the RIGHT time.
Song of the Day: Like A Lion - David Crowder Band
We sang this all weekend at MSSR [during worship, by ourselves, in groups, EVERYWHERE]. We came up with most interesting hand motions to this song with the help of our girls.
I do love the FIRST line in this song: "Let love EXPLODE and bring the dead to life."
Let love explode. Let love explode. Just ponder that. It's breathtaking.
Arms Open Wide
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Friday, January 28, 2011
'Via' is the same in Spanish AND English?
Yes, as you can tell, I learned in Spanish 3 today that 'via' meaning 'by way of' is actually a Spanish word. Wow. Revolutionized my entire day. No....it revolutionized my entire LIFE. This is big. So now when I go to Spain, if that's the only thing I know how to say, at least they'll understand me.
Today marks the start of MSSR (Middle School Sexuality Retreat) that our church puts on. Now I know what you're thinking..."A Middle School Sexuality Retreat. That could not sound more wrong." But in reality, it's quite the opposite. It's a fantasmal opportunity for middle schoolers to come and have all their questions answered about sex, the opposite sex, and anything else they need to know all while being centered around abstinence and Christ-centered lives. Seriously--it's bound to be AWESOME. I'm a group leader for my 8th grade girls that I regularly lead on Sunday mornings [we have small groups which help kids grow closer to God with other kids their age and gender] and so, naturally, I'm leading their group for MSSR. Now I know my girls well enough to be able to talk to them about anything. So this whole 'sex talk' shouldn't be a problem....should it?
Also. My best friend, Bre, has recently started a blog. I highly suggest that you check it out. She is spastic, fun, lovely, a Christ-follower, funny, caring, respecting, loving and just about every other good adjective there is out there. All the cool ones at least. So no worries, her blog is perfectly pure and spastic and funny. I'll hook you guys up.
LINKIN' it up: http://hopeinthemorning.blogspot.com/
All yesterday I had the biggest urge on the planet to just say 'Child Pleez..." for NO apparent reason. And I couldn't. Because no opportunity arrived. I'm fully certain that Chad Ochocinco would be disappointed in me. Who oddly enough has decided to change his BACK to Chad Johnson. Because his girlfriend wants him too so that her last name isn't Ochocinco when they wed. Which I don't blame her, cause seriously, her name would be Evelyn Ochocinco and that just sounds utterly jank.
See but here's the problem. What if you're her and in the midst of your relationship, your hotshot boyfriend changes his name to an incorrect Spanish usage of the number 85; his jersey number for the suckiest team in history.
My feelings would be as follows:
1. Utter shock.
2. Complete embarrassment [Imagine going to a restaurant and him stating that he has a reservation for 'Ochocinco.' and they respond with "Ah, yes, right this way Mr. Ochocinco."]
3. Absolute Torture.
4. Anger that my last name would soon sound foolish.
5. Break-up maybe?
So Chad? Child Pleez...GET YOUR ACT TOGETHER.
Song of the Day: Dogs Days Are Over - Florence + The Machine
Wow. The music video just officially ruined the song for me. So I'm not gonna show you that video. Cause she's a MAJOR creeper. Like she's creepin' beyond creepin' beyond creepin'. Love the song though. Is it too late to say that?
Arms Open Wide...
Today marks the start of MSSR (Middle School Sexuality Retreat) that our church puts on. Now I know what you're thinking..."A Middle School Sexuality Retreat. That could not sound more wrong." But in reality, it's quite the opposite. It's a fantasmal opportunity for middle schoolers to come and have all their questions answered about sex, the opposite sex, and anything else they need to know all while being centered around abstinence and Christ-centered lives. Seriously--it's bound to be AWESOME. I'm a group leader for my 8th grade girls that I regularly lead on Sunday mornings [we have small groups which help kids grow closer to God with other kids their age and gender] and so, naturally, I'm leading their group for MSSR. Now I know my girls well enough to be able to talk to them about anything. So this whole 'sex talk' shouldn't be a problem....should it?
Also. My best friend, Bre, has recently started a blog. I highly suggest that you check it out. She is spastic, fun, lovely, a Christ-follower, funny, caring, respecting, loving and just about every other good adjective there is out there. All the cool ones at least. So no worries, her blog is perfectly pure and spastic and funny. I'll hook you guys up.
LINKIN' it up: http://hopeinthemorning.blogspot.com/
All yesterday I had the biggest urge on the planet to just say 'Child Pleez..." for NO apparent reason. And I couldn't. Because no opportunity arrived. I'm fully certain that Chad Ochocinco would be disappointed in me. Who oddly enough has decided to change his BACK to Chad Johnson. Because his girlfriend wants him too so that her last name isn't Ochocinco when they wed. Which I don't blame her, cause seriously, her name would be Evelyn Ochocinco and that just sounds utterly jank.
See but here's the problem. What if you're her and in the midst of your relationship, your hotshot boyfriend changes his name to an incorrect Spanish usage of the number 85; his jersey number for the suckiest team in history.
My feelings would be as follows:
1. Utter shock.
2. Complete embarrassment [Imagine going to a restaurant and him stating that he has a reservation for 'Ochocinco.' and they respond with "Ah, yes, right this way Mr. Ochocinco."]
3. Absolute Torture.
4. Anger that my last name would soon sound foolish.
5. Break-up maybe?
So Chad? Child Pleez...GET YOUR ACT TOGETHER.
Song of the Day: Dogs Days Are Over - Florence + The Machine
Wow. The music video just officially ruined the song for me. So I'm not gonna show you that video. Cause she's a MAJOR creeper. Like she's creepin' beyond creepin' beyond creepin'. Love the song though. Is it too late to say that?
Arms Open Wide...
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Public Speaking, Eh?
There are some things I've noticed today:
1. Writing 'kewl' does not in fact make you COOL. You just look like more of an early 2000's fool.
2. Employees at UDF are the most unfriendly, unhappy people I've ever met. Never have I ever had a cheerful "Regular Mint Chocolate Chip Milkshake with Chocolate Milk" getter. They always look like this:
I just get really depressed everytime I look at them and I want to ask them about their life. Be like "Obviously someone deprived you on the 'making sure you're okay' area of your life. I'd like to request leadership of that area. I'll be back every Monday for you to tell me how your week went."
3. I enjoy letters. I mean, getting letters in the mail is fine. But what I'm trying to say here is that I enjoy getting notes. Notes of literally WHATEVER. From best friends, friends, non-friends, the works. It just gives me joy in my heart. HEY GUESS WHAT?! Jesus sent me a letter--and it's flippin' gigantic.
4. I am absolutely terrible at impromptu speeches. We had to draw random topics from a bag today and speak off the top of our heads about it. We weren't able to look at our papers until it was our turn--so no early brainstorming. It's my turn, I'm all pumped and I grab my paper and go up to the podium. Of course, I would get 'Great Danes' as my topic. So I spent a good 30-40 seconds trying to come up with something to intro and conclude with. I finally settled on a mixed mumbo jumbo discussing how Great Danes are great for those who like them but for those who don't "I would suggest a cat. Take my 19 pound fluffy cat, for example." And then I finish it off by saying "If I were you, I'd be the first to go out and offi--"
Yes. I started to say 'officiate' which makes absolutely NO sense in this context. Seriously. I don't even know where it came from. So then I lost my train of thought and had to try to get back on track. And I looked like a fool the whole time and mumbled a loser of an ending and said 'THE END.' And then promptly sat down.
Glad to know I have a future in impromptu speaking.
5. I unintentionally rhymed on number one. GENIUS.
6. There does come a point in a disorganized person's life where a mess DOES, in fact, get to them. I about had a heart attack the other night while laying in bed. I realized that my room was a mess right as I was about to go to bed and that drove me crazy knowing that I couldn't fix it and that I just had to wallow in my mess overnight. Thank goodness I cleaned it today otherwise they might've had to put me in an enclosed white, padded room.
7. While I enjoy making lists and blogging, there is a time when all children of God must depart from technology and go to sleep.
8. Song of the Day: Hollis, the Flaming Youth - Plastic Inevitables. Yeah, locals. They just won Cincinnati's Battle of the Bands. And their lead singer is one of my best friend's best friend. I'd give 'em a listen. WO-AH-OH-AH-OH!
1. Writing 'kewl' does not in fact make you COOL. You just look like more of an early 2000's fool.
2. Employees at UDF are the most unfriendly, unhappy people I've ever met. Never have I ever had a cheerful "Regular Mint Chocolate Chip Milkshake with Chocolate Milk" getter. They always look like this:
3. I enjoy letters. I mean, getting letters in the mail is fine. But what I'm trying to say here is that I enjoy getting notes. Notes of literally WHATEVER. From best friends, friends, non-friends, the works. It just gives me joy in my heart. HEY GUESS WHAT?! Jesus sent me a letter--and it's flippin' gigantic.
4. I am absolutely terrible at impromptu speeches. We had to draw random topics from a bag today and speak off the top of our heads about it. We weren't able to look at our papers until it was our turn--so no early brainstorming. It's my turn, I'm all pumped and I grab my paper and go up to the podium. Of course, I would get 'Great Danes' as my topic. So I spent a good 30-40 seconds trying to come up with something to intro and conclude with. I finally settled on a mixed mumbo jumbo discussing how Great Danes are great for those who like them but for those who don't "I would suggest a cat. Take my 19 pound fluffy cat, for example." And then I finish it off by saying "If I were you, I'd be the first to go out and offi--"
Yes. I started to say 'officiate' which makes absolutely NO sense in this context. Seriously. I don't even know where it came from. So then I lost my train of thought and had to try to get back on track. And I looked like a fool the whole time and mumbled a loser of an ending and said 'THE END.' And then promptly sat down.
Glad to know I have a future in impromptu speaking.
5. I unintentionally rhymed on number one. GENIUS.
6. There does come a point in a disorganized person's life where a mess DOES, in fact, get to them. I about had a heart attack the other night while laying in bed. I realized that my room was a mess right as I was about to go to bed and that drove me crazy knowing that I couldn't fix it and that I just had to wallow in my mess overnight. Thank goodness I cleaned it today otherwise they might've had to put me in an enclosed white, padded room.
7. While I enjoy making lists and blogging, there is a time when all children of God must depart from technology and go to sleep.
8. Song of the Day: Hollis, the Flaming Youth - Plastic Inevitables. Yeah, locals. They just won Cincinnati's Battle of the Bands. And their lead singer is one of my best friend's best friend. I'd give 'em a listen. WO-AH-OH-AH-OH!
Monday, January 24, 2011
I'm An Awkward Mess
Song of the Day: Her Morning Elegance - Oren Lavie
The song can't exist without the video and the video can't exist without the song. These two just go hand in hand. Gorgeous.
I went to get my haircut yesterday at the nearest Great Clips. Got up late, thought about cleaning my room and then didn't, and then finally pulled myself together at a leisurely hour to go get it cut [convenience first, you know]. But the thing about me is that I always dread going to get a haircut. Why? Because I have to sit in the chair in an awkward silence while some random woman earns money by fiddling with my hair. But this time--I was gonna be prepared with things to say. It wasn't about to get awkward THIS time.
So I get in there and have my normal haircutter, Sam, say "Come on over, Abby!" like they know you and all, and I sit straight down in the seat of honor. Now this whole time I'm like "Should I ask if business has been steady? Should I ask what she's doing this weekend?"
And that's when it hit me: When is the point that you have to stop asking someone what they're doing that weekend? Cause by this time it's almost Saturday afternoon. So I feel like if I ask what she's doing that weekend, then I'm jipping Friday and then it's not an all-inclusive question. You just left Friday out. You can't just DO that. Friday is the day that every businessman looks forward to. Friday is the let's-go-clubbing night for a lot of people. Friday is the land of opportunites for the next few days. Friday is where. it's. AT.
After much debating, I decided that that question was past it's prime. And if I ask if business has been steady and I don't work there? That takes awkward to an even HIGHER level than I'm already at.
Yet, after ALL this turmoil inside my head? I, of course, just sat there in silence--only speaking when spoken to.
I swear--her job must be torture everytime I come in there.
And to make things even better, I was driving somewhere on Friday--Lord only knows where and I hit the highway. Now when I'm driving, I tend to look everywhere and I mean EVERYWHERE. I'm a safe driver, I really am! I just see everything. So I'm driving along and I catch this black thing out of the corner of my eye. I look over on the side of the highway and there is a full, round, intact-looking tire just laying there. Now that may not seem like a big deal to you, but I don't think it's everyday that you see a workable tire just laying on the side of the road. It's not normal. And I immediately thought of three options for why that could've been there:
1. Someone got a flat tire and after changing it, littered the highway with the useless one. Thanks, thanks a lot.
2. Someone lost a fully intact tire while driving and didn't notice.
2. Someone got a flat tire and after taking it off, drove off without putting the new one on.
I SO wanted it to be the last 2. Not because I wanted the person to have a bad car accident--just because that story would've been HILARIOUS. So I sat there in my car, chuckling loudly to myself for a good 300 feet. Thank you, idiot tire litterer, for giving me something to laugh awkwardly about.
Jesus time:
In service today, Alton, my youth pastor, was talking about the prayer "Father, protect us" and how sometimes we don't understand why things are going completely OFF THE WALL in our lives, but the Lord wants us to stand there and. instead of complaining, say "Lord, USE me." That struck a chord with me. I sat in my seat and I could just feel the weight of my hurt literally pulling my heart down. It was the biggest burden I've ever felt. I've come to realize now that God really does have a plan for why He's let some things happen. But
1. I did NOT realize the full extent of my pain. All of it crashed landed in my heart this Sunday morning. It was as if I could feel all the pain that I've endured in the past year and a half hit my heart all at the same time.
2. Instead of yelling at God again [which I do sometimes and I know He hears me], I decided to ask him to use me. And while this may seem like a lot now, I know He has a plan for me and as He promises in the Bible that He won't let us be tested beyond our capabilities [1 Corinthians 10:13]. What an awesome promise!
So that's what I'll be working on this week: Asking the Father how He can use me for his glory.
Arms Open Wide
The song can't exist without the video and the video can't exist without the song. These two just go hand in hand. Gorgeous.
I went to get my haircut yesterday at the nearest Great Clips. Got up late, thought about cleaning my room and then didn't, and then finally pulled myself together at a leisurely hour to go get it cut [convenience first, you know]. But the thing about me is that I always dread going to get a haircut. Why? Because I have to sit in the chair in an awkward silence while some random woman earns money by fiddling with my hair. But this time--I was gonna be prepared with things to say. It wasn't about to get awkward THIS time.
So I get in there and have my normal haircutter, Sam, say "Come on over, Abby!" like they know you and all, and I sit straight down in the seat of honor. Now this whole time I'm like "Should I ask if business has been steady? Should I ask what she's doing this weekend?"
And that's when it hit me: When is the point that you have to stop asking someone what they're doing that weekend? Cause by this time it's almost Saturday afternoon. So I feel like if I ask what she's doing that weekend, then I'm jipping Friday and then it's not an all-inclusive question. You just left Friday out. You can't just DO that. Friday is the day that every businessman looks forward to. Friday is the let's-go-clubbing night for a lot of people. Friday is the land of opportunites for the next few days. Friday is where. it's. AT.
After much debating, I decided that that question was past it's prime. And if I ask if business has been steady and I don't work there? That takes awkward to an even HIGHER level than I'm already at.
Yet, after ALL this turmoil inside my head? I, of course, just sat there in silence--only speaking when spoken to.
I swear--her job must be torture everytime I come in there.
And to make things even better, I was driving somewhere on Friday--Lord only knows where and I hit the highway. Now when I'm driving, I tend to look everywhere and I mean EVERYWHERE. I'm a safe driver, I really am! I just see everything. So I'm driving along and I catch this black thing out of the corner of my eye. I look over on the side of the highway and there is a full, round, intact-looking tire just laying there. Now that may not seem like a big deal to you, but I don't think it's everyday that you see a workable tire just laying on the side of the road. It's not normal. And I immediately thought of three options for why that could've been there:
1. Someone got a flat tire and after changing it, littered the highway with the useless one. Thanks, thanks a lot.
2. Someone lost a fully intact tire while driving and didn't notice.
2. Someone got a flat tire and after taking it off, drove off without putting the new one on.
I SO wanted it to be the last 2. Not because I wanted the person to have a bad car accident--just because that story would've been HILARIOUS. So I sat there in my car, chuckling loudly to myself for a good 300 feet. Thank you, idiot tire litterer, for giving me something to laugh awkwardly about.
Jesus time:
In service today, Alton, my youth pastor, was talking about the prayer "Father, protect us" and how sometimes we don't understand why things are going completely OFF THE WALL in our lives, but the Lord wants us to stand there and. instead of complaining, say "Lord, USE me." That struck a chord with me. I sat in my seat and I could just feel the weight of my hurt literally pulling my heart down. It was the biggest burden I've ever felt. I've come to realize now that God really does have a plan for why He's let some things happen. But
1. I did NOT realize the full extent of my pain. All of it crashed landed in my heart this Sunday morning. It was as if I could feel all the pain that I've endured in the past year and a half hit my heart all at the same time.
2. Instead of yelling at God again [which I do sometimes and I know He hears me], I decided to ask him to use me. And while this may seem like a lot now, I know He has a plan for me and as He promises in the Bible that He won't let us be tested beyond our capabilities [1 Corinthians 10:13]. What an awesome promise!
So that's what I'll be working on this week: Asking the Father how He can use me for his glory.
Arms Open Wide
Thursday, January 20, 2011
It's T-SHIRT TIMEEEE!
Song of the Day: Paris Nights/New York Mornings - Corinne Bailey Rae
Anything that has 'Paris' in the title is automatically a win in my book. Except for Paris Hilton....no comment.
First of all, I need to state that I DO NOT watch Jersey Shore. I think it's ridiculous and a waste of brain power. But let's just be frank--they are freakin' hilarious. I was watching Youtube videos today [surprise, surprise] and I found Snooki on Ellen. A couple of my favorite quotes:
Snooki on Ellen: "We have different sides to us. Like me, I'll go to freakin' Barnes and Nobles and get a cooffee [how Guidos say it] and sit down and read."
She's going to freakin' Barnes and Nobles. Notice the added 's' and the 'freakin'. Where else would you go to sit down and read? Wal-mart? Oh, wait. According to Paris Hilton, they make walls there. Never mind.
Ellen: "What are your New Year's Resolutions, Snooki?"
Snooks: "Well, I plan on keeping up with my training. You know, exercising."
Ellen: "How many days do you work out and how long?"
Snooks: "well I work out 2 days a week and as many weeks as it takes me..."
Ellen: "No, I mean how long in a day do you work out?"
Snooks: "OHH! Like an hour." *Audience laughs* "I don't get why that's funny..."
Ellen: "It's just not that much time, Snooki..."
Snooki also mentioned that every week she works out, she's sore for the entire week because it's such a difficult workout. I would like to see Snooki do some Irish Dancing. WAOW. That would make my life. She might have to take her heels off which would make her probably a legalized midget, though. Sorry, Snooks.
Enough of Jersey Shore. This morning I jumped out of bed and did not immediately grab my Bible. I remembered a few minutes later and dug straight into the Word. Amazing what God can do. I literally have NEVER been more in depth in the Bible, just me and God, than I was this morning. I was in Ephesians 6 and I was reading about the Belt of Truth and Breastplate of Righteousness--all the stuff you read about as a kid a MILLION times. And then I just started finding things and wanting to understand them more. So I researched and talked to God and it was just absolutely fantastic! I love how He shows up when I least expect him to. Spent a good 25 minutes with the King and I'm so glad I started my day with Him. I love you, King Jesus. Reign forever and ever.
Arms Open Wide
Anything that has 'Paris' in the title is automatically a win in my book. Except for Paris Hilton....no comment.
First of all, I need to state that I DO NOT watch Jersey Shore. I think it's ridiculous and a waste of brain power. But let's just be frank--they are freakin' hilarious. I was watching Youtube videos today [surprise, surprise] and I found Snooki on Ellen. A couple of my favorite quotes:
Snooki on Ellen: "We have different sides to us. Like me, I'll go to freakin' Barnes and Nobles and get a cooffee [how Guidos say it] and sit down and read."
She's going to freakin' Barnes and Nobles. Notice the added 's' and the 'freakin'. Where else would you go to sit down and read? Wal-mart? Oh, wait. According to Paris Hilton, they make walls there. Never mind.
Ellen: "What are your New Year's Resolutions, Snooki?"
Snooks: "Well, I plan on keeping up with my training. You know, exercising."
Ellen: "How many days do you work out and how long?"
Snooks: "well I work out 2 days a week and as many weeks as it takes me..."
Ellen: "No, I mean how long in a day do you work out?"
Snooks: "OHH! Like an hour." *Audience laughs* "I don't get why that's funny..."
Ellen: "It's just not that much time, Snooki..."
Snooki also mentioned that every week she works out, she's sore for the entire week because it's such a difficult workout. I would like to see Snooki do some Irish Dancing. WAOW. That would make my life. She might have to take her heels off which would make her probably a legalized midget, though. Sorry, Snooks.
This is what they do in their spare time? FTW, Jersey Shore. I adore you guys. Also, take a good look at how much product Pauly D keeps in that hair of his. A fire hose couldn't wash that stuff out.
Enough of Jersey Shore. This morning I jumped out of bed and did not immediately grab my Bible. I remembered a few minutes later and dug straight into the Word. Amazing what God can do. I literally have NEVER been more in depth in the Bible, just me and God, than I was this morning. I was in Ephesians 6 and I was reading about the Belt of Truth and Breastplate of Righteousness--all the stuff you read about as a kid a MILLION times. And then I just started finding things and wanting to understand them more. So I researched and talked to God and it was just absolutely fantastic! I love how He shows up when I least expect him to. Spent a good 25 minutes with the King and I'm so glad I started my day with Him. I love you, King Jesus. Reign forever and ever.
Arms Open Wide
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Peyton Manning Your Very Own Action Toy
Youtube.
The beginning of procrastination. The fuel to procrastination. The epitome of geniusness. It's everywhere I go[not that I mind]. When I go to the Vineyard Office, the men are always cackling loudly to the most hilarious new youtube video. I post them on my sister's facebook constantly. I'm surprised more people haven't gotten mad at me for writing/posting on her wall as much as I do.
1st example of greatness: THROWBACK
Glad I got it stuck in your head, aren't you? Yeah, no need for thanks. I mean Peyton's a saint anyhow.
The beginning of procrastination. The fuel to procrastination. The epitome of geniusness. It's everywhere I go[not that I mind]. When I go to the Vineyard Office, the men are always cackling loudly to the most hilarious new youtube video. I post them on my sister's facebook constantly. I'm surprised more people haven't gotten mad at me for writing/posting on her wall as much as I do.
1st example of greatness: THROWBACK
Glad I got it stuck in your head, aren't you? Yeah, no need for thanks. I mean Peyton's a saint anyhow.
2nd example of greatness: Disaster Strikes
BAHA. Oops. Jesus lets me laugh at Destructive Christmas Plays right? Dude. Can you imagine being crushed by the weight of a camel? SUCKS FOR YOU. Better luck next time--I'd go with the balcony seats.
3rd example of greatness: Speechless
.....This RIGHT HERE is the evidence of hilarity. Thank you, Planet Rock instructor, for 1. giving me something to imitate and talk about for the rest of my life 2. Showing the world why Youtube exists--for stars like you.
I believe this covers most of the elements of Youtube. My favorite elements at least. If I missed any, do NOT hesitate to tell me. I will surely add them to the pile of greatness.
Double DREAM Hands [Arms Open Wide...]!
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Teach Me How To Jerk
I've decided that most of the world doesn't know what good music is. SO for y'alls sakes, I will be starting to post one song every time I update my blog. Even if you hate my blog, at least stay tuned for Fantastic Music by Abby. It'll be worth your time.
Today's song: Teenage Dream (Katy Perry Cover) by The Rescues
I am NOT in any way endorsing Teenage Dream/Katy Perry [both of which are way overplayed and if I hear "Firework" one more time, I think my ears will literally bleed. Katy Perry, beware. I may end up suing you]. But this version is absolutely AMAZING. And the Rescues are BA anyway. So it's definitely worth it.
I would also like to give a shout out to Apple. You know how you guys invented that thing called the iPod Nano where you're supposed to be able to shake the wee thing and it will shuffle? YEAH. I've never heard such a deliberete lie from anyone in my life. I have tried to shake that thing, throw that thing, literally chuck it across the room--Nothing. Yet, when I drop it 6 inches by accident, it's quick on the draw.
I think I'm cursed. Do I not have the touch [no pun intended]? Seriously, it's like somethings wrong with me. I have never ever been successful with this. So, Apple, please take note of this and do something to fix this. It's a pain to go an extra four seconds to hit 'Shuffle'.
I'm taking a break from my serious streak for today and giving you guys something lighter. Not that Jesus is always serious. As I talked about last time, He's actually quite light-hearted. Seeing as how I'm feeling the same right now. Literally am having an off-and-on dance party for the past 30 minutes. I don't know what's come over me! Probably Jesus and his Spirit. Ah, gotta love Him...
But have you guys ever tried to jerk at night? When everyone else is asleep? It's not as easy as it sounds to jerk quietly. Quite difficult actually. Especially when you try to jerk like this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6lY25NPaqs&feature=related
Classic. I only learn from the best. Catch the "Alright, you suck" at the end. Really wraps the whole thing up.
Nah, I'm just joshing you. THIS is where it's at. I learn from the masters.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0FOjmV66zf8
Moral of the story: Do not jerk at 11 at night. It's quite loud and does not do you any favors if you're trying to jerk properly.
Arms Open Wide
Today's song: Teenage Dream (Katy Perry Cover) by The Rescues
I am NOT in any way endorsing Teenage Dream/Katy Perry [both of which are way overplayed and if I hear "Firework" one more time, I think my ears will literally bleed. Katy Perry, beware. I may end up suing you]. But this version is absolutely AMAZING. And the Rescues are BA anyway. So it's definitely worth it.
I would also like to give a shout out to Apple. You know how you guys invented that thing called the iPod Nano where you're supposed to be able to shake the wee thing and it will shuffle? YEAH. I've never heard such a deliberete lie from anyone in my life. I have tried to shake that thing, throw that thing, literally chuck it across the room--Nothing. Yet, when I drop it 6 inches by accident, it's quick on the draw.
I think I'm cursed. Do I not have the touch [no pun intended]? Seriously, it's like somethings wrong with me. I have never ever been successful with this. So, Apple, please take note of this and do something to fix this. It's a pain to go an extra four seconds to hit 'Shuffle'.
I'm taking a break from my serious streak for today and giving you guys something lighter. Not that Jesus is always serious. As I talked about last time, He's actually quite light-hearted. Seeing as how I'm feeling the same right now. Literally am having an off-and-on dance party for the past 30 minutes. I don't know what's come over me! Probably Jesus and his Spirit. Ah, gotta love Him...
But have you guys ever tried to jerk at night? When everyone else is asleep? It's not as easy as it sounds to jerk quietly. Quite difficult actually. Especially when you try to jerk like this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6lY25NPaqs&feature=related
Classic. I only learn from the best. Catch the "Alright, you suck" at the end. Really wraps the whole thing up.
Nah, I'm just joshing you. THIS is where it's at. I learn from the masters.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0FOjmV66zf8
Moral of the story: Do not jerk at 11 at night. It's quite loud and does not do you any favors if you're trying to jerk properly.
Arms Open Wide
Friday, January 14, 2011
White Man
Things that God is teaching me [this very moment]:
1. Trust HIM. Not everything else.
2. To watch my actions. I seem to be quick to anger lately and I haven't the slightest idea why.
3. To fully embrace the amazing friends that He has placed in my life this very year.
1. I swear. The Book of Job just keeps popping up in my life lately. In the past couple months, that's basically the only book I've heard about. One of my best friends, Bre, reminded me of it some months ago and then today in Chapel someone mentioned Job. And tonight at UDF my friend Kaleb mentioned it. It's crazy how much it's showing up and applying in situations like 'Trust ONLY God'.
Side tangent: Jesus is crazy hilarious. For example. God confronts Job in chapter 38 because Job thinks he knows so much.
Job 38:5-6
"Where were you when I created the earth?
Tell me, since you know so much!
Who decided on its size? Certainly you'll know that!"
Can't you just hear Jesus being like, "Um, excuse me. Job? Did YOU create the world? NO. I did. Do you know how many hairs are on your head? Probs not. Cause only I do. But since you seem to know so much..."
Luke 20:1-8
"One day as Jesus was teaching the people in the temple courts and proclaiming the good news, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, together with the elders, came up to him. “Tell us by what authority you are doing these things,” they said. “Who gave you this authority?”
He replied, “I will also ask you a question. Tell me: John’s baptism—was it from heaven, or of human origin?”
They discussed it among themselves and said, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will ask, ‘Why didn’t you believe him?’ But if we say, ‘Of human origin,’ all the people will stone us, because they are persuaded that John was a prophet.”
So they answered, “We don’t know where it was from.”
Jesus said, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.”
BAHA. Jesus is battin' 1000 right about now. Pharisees: "Yeah, we don't really know." Jesus: "Yeah, then I won't tell you why I have the authority to do what I do. FAIL."
These are only two examples of how crazy hilarious Jesus is. I mean, let's be frank: The Creator of the UNIVERSE has an Awesome sense of humor. I...literally couldn't ask for a better King.
2. I seem to be flying off the handle much quicker lately. Especially towards my parents when I swore I never would. It hasn't been anything extremely bratty. It's just been the occasional exasperation about small things that comes out in my tone of voice or look on my face. I legit cannot hide my feelings to save my life. If I was being held at gunpoint and someone said "Hide your emotions or you die!" I'd be dead before I could even try. It's that bad.
So that's something I've been needing to work on and that's my prayer this week and beyond: "Guide my actions daily."
3. If those of you who read this voided blog don't have really tight Christian friends of yours that you love, enjoy, and cherish, get some NOW. In the past year, God has changed my life and part of that happened because I had these friends. Especially strong Christian friends who build you up, not tear you down. Who plan Friday morning Bible studies with you that require you to get up at the crack of dawn and be there like white on rice. Who will make you laugh harder than anything else. These are the friends that have helped draw me closer to the King--my King who calls me Beloved.
We are clearly the Beloved. Remember that this long 3-day weekend. (:
[Pray that I remember it!]
PS If you were wondering, my blog titles really do have a pattern. They aren't random. They're song titles that apply to the topic that I'm discussing. Today's is by Gungor. :]
God IS Love.
Arms Open Wide...
1. Trust HIM. Not everything else.
2. To watch my actions. I seem to be quick to anger lately and I haven't the slightest idea why.
3. To fully embrace the amazing friends that He has placed in my life this very year.
1. I swear. The Book of Job just keeps popping up in my life lately. In the past couple months, that's basically the only book I've heard about. One of my best friends, Bre, reminded me of it some months ago and then today in Chapel someone mentioned Job. And tonight at UDF my friend Kaleb mentioned it. It's crazy how much it's showing up and applying in situations like 'Trust ONLY God'.
Side tangent: Jesus is crazy hilarious. For example. God confronts Job in chapter 38 because Job thinks he knows so much.
Job 38:5-6
"Where were you when I created the earth?
Tell me, since you know so much!
Who decided on its size? Certainly you'll know that!"
Can't you just hear Jesus being like, "Um, excuse me. Job? Did YOU create the world? NO. I did. Do you know how many hairs are on your head? Probs not. Cause only I do. But since you seem to know so much..."
Luke 20:1-8
"One day as Jesus was teaching the people in the temple courts and proclaiming the good news, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, together with the elders, came up to him. “Tell us by what authority you are doing these things,” they said. “Who gave you this authority?”
He replied, “I will also ask you a question. Tell me: John’s baptism—was it from heaven, or of human origin?”
They discussed it among themselves and said, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will ask, ‘Why didn’t you believe him?’ But if we say, ‘Of human origin,’ all the people will stone us, because they are persuaded that John was a prophet.”
So they answered, “We don’t know where it was from.”
Jesus said, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.”
BAHA. Jesus is battin' 1000 right about now. Pharisees: "Yeah, we don't really know." Jesus: "Yeah, then I won't tell you why I have the authority to do what I do. FAIL."
These are only two examples of how crazy hilarious Jesus is. I mean, let's be frank: The Creator of the UNIVERSE has an Awesome sense of humor. I...literally couldn't ask for a better King.
2. I seem to be flying off the handle much quicker lately. Especially towards my parents when I swore I never would. It hasn't been anything extremely bratty. It's just been the occasional exasperation about small things that comes out in my tone of voice or look on my face. I legit cannot hide my feelings to save my life. If I was being held at gunpoint and someone said "Hide your emotions or you die!" I'd be dead before I could even try. It's that bad.
So that's something I've been needing to work on and that's my prayer this week and beyond: "Guide my actions daily."
3. If those of you who read this voided blog don't have really tight Christian friends of yours that you love, enjoy, and cherish, get some NOW. In the past year, God has changed my life and part of that happened because I had these friends. Especially strong Christian friends who build you up, not tear you down. Who plan Friday morning Bible studies with you that require you to get up at the crack of dawn and be there like white on rice. Who will make you laugh harder than anything else. These are the friends that have helped draw me closer to the King--my King who calls me Beloved.
We are clearly the Beloved. Remember that this long 3-day weekend. (:
[Pray that I remember it!]
PS If you were wondering, my blog titles really do have a pattern. They aren't random. They're song titles that apply to the topic that I'm discussing. Today's is by Gungor. :]
God IS Love.
Arms Open Wide...
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Winter Song
On a day like today, who wouldn't want to be inside? It's snowy and cold and we may as well just accept the fact that we clearly aren't able to go anywhere today.
I do love how pretty the snow looks as it falls from the Heavens. I just spent the last 3 minutes looking staring out the window comparing snow to living in the moment [hard to believe right?]. Listen to my theory.
We all hate the aftermath of snow, right? The digging-your-car-out-of-6-inches-of-snow and the cold it brings with it. But if we live in the moment as the snow falls, we'll discover it's something quite beautiful. I'm in awe of the fact that these gorgeous frozen pieces of Heaven fall out of the sky to bring us a clean layer of white. Like Jesus' grace and forgiveness. It seems like it comes out of nowhere [as does snow from the sky look like] but nonetheless He loves us and washes us as white as snow. AMAZING. How His grace just piles up like the snow. How His love for us piles up like the snow.
God also taught me this morning that we each have a calling on our lives [I'd been thinking about this a lot lately but He just drilled it into my head once more]. Regardless of your job calling, we have a Jesus-following-calling. In everything we do, we are responsible for reflecting Jesus.
You may hear more from me later if this cabin fever thing gets to me. Who knows.
But for right now? Live in the moment and watch the snow fall. Cause it truly is gorgeous. (:
Arms Open Wide...
I do love how pretty the snow looks as it falls from the Heavens. I just spent the last 3 minutes looking staring out the window comparing snow to living in the moment [hard to believe right?]. Listen to my theory.
We all hate the aftermath of snow, right? The digging-your-car-out-of-6-inches-of-snow and the cold it brings with it. But if we live in the moment as the snow falls, we'll discover it's something quite beautiful. I'm in awe of the fact that these gorgeous frozen pieces of Heaven fall out of the sky to bring us a clean layer of white. Like Jesus' grace and forgiveness. It seems like it comes out of nowhere [as does snow from the sky look like] but nonetheless He loves us and washes us as white as snow. AMAZING. How His grace just piles up like the snow. How His love for us piles up like the snow.
God also taught me this morning that we each have a calling on our lives [I'd been thinking about this a lot lately but He just drilled it into my head once more]. Regardless of your job calling, we have a Jesus-following-calling. In everything we do, we are responsible for reflecting Jesus.
You may hear more from me later if this cabin fever thing gets to me. Who knows.
But for right now? Live in the moment and watch the snow fall. Cause it truly is gorgeous. (:
Arms Open Wide...
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Wonderwall
I finally burst through my stubbornness today and realized [with God's help and my mother's, of course] that I consistently put up a wall. An emotional wall. Whenever anybody gets close, I shut down. I don't let me be myself and I push people away.
Now I'm still not altogether sure why this is so let us brainstorm some ideas:
1. I'm afraid [of what?].
2. My parent's divorce?
3. I don't want to get hurt.
4. Low self-esteem?
I don't know WHY this is and I just wish that Jesus would tell me why. The answer is probably looking me straight in the eyes and I just can't see it.
I'm the most stubborn person I've ever met. The more I do anything, the more I see it in myself. I won't face the facts about myself. But I've been learning to face the things that I'm learning about myself and deal with them, but it's HARD to deal with some of the things I'm learning. For example, how to get rid of my emotional wall. HAHA. Not easy. I'm going to be making this a matter of prayer and I would ask that you who read this do the same.
Now despite what you may think, I'm not a total kook. Don't worry. I'm just discovering some interesting things about myself and sending my thoughts off into this void called 'the internet'.
On the bright side, I bought myself a new iPod today. This will be my fourth iPod in the past several years. The first nano held 200 songs and lived a long life. The second nano held 1000 songs [aka 500 songs] and lived a somewhat long life. The third itouch 8gb lived a short life. I loved it and it had room for everything i needed. Except I was a loser and dropped it in the toilet. How you may ask? It literally fell out of my pocket. I tell people this all the time and they never believe me.
I about died though. It happened to be at church where we had NO rice, but my youth pastor was able to produce a hair dryer. I spent a good 20-25 minutes drying that thing. We even tried to lift up the screen to dry under that.
Note to self: NEVER AGAIN. It is not possible to take an Itouch screen off with a $50 Barnes and Noble gift card. It only cracks the screen.
So moral of the story is never keep an iTouch in your pocket. It can only end up as money gone down the toilet.
But every store in Ohio would have a run on all things iPod today. Costco AND Sam's Club AND Target were all out of 16gb IPod nanos. And everything else you needed. Seriously. I got the last one at Target. And it wasn't even an attractive color. At least I've got somewhere to put my tunes though.
I tend to compare my iPod to my car, Mel [because he's a Lethal Weapon. Clever, huh?]. I don't care what kind of car i have, just as long as it gets me from point A to point B.
....House Hunters Marathon, Take 2. Curse you, HGTV.
Now I'm still not altogether sure why this is so let us brainstorm some ideas:
1. I'm afraid [of what?].
2. My parent's divorce?
3. I don't want to get hurt.
4. Low self-esteem?
I don't know WHY this is and I just wish that Jesus would tell me why. The answer is probably looking me straight in the eyes and I just can't see it.
I'm the most stubborn person I've ever met. The more I do anything, the more I see it in myself. I won't face the facts about myself. But I've been learning to face the things that I'm learning about myself and deal with them, but it's HARD to deal with some of the things I'm learning. For example, how to get rid of my emotional wall. HAHA. Not easy. I'm going to be making this a matter of prayer and I would ask that you who read this do the same.
Now despite what you may think, I'm not a total kook. Don't worry. I'm just discovering some interesting things about myself and sending my thoughts off into this void called 'the internet'.
On the bright side, I bought myself a new iPod today. This will be my fourth iPod in the past several years. The first nano held 200 songs and lived a long life. The second nano held 1000 songs [aka 500 songs] and lived a somewhat long life. The third itouch 8gb lived a short life. I loved it and it had room for everything i needed. Except I was a loser and dropped it in the toilet. How you may ask? It literally fell out of my pocket. I tell people this all the time and they never believe me.
I about died though. It happened to be at church where we had NO rice, but my youth pastor was able to produce a hair dryer. I spent a good 20-25 minutes drying that thing. We even tried to lift up the screen to dry under that.
Note to self: NEVER AGAIN. It is not possible to take an Itouch screen off with a $50 Barnes and Noble gift card. It only cracks the screen.
So moral of the story is never keep an iTouch in your pocket. It can only end up as money gone down the toilet.
But every store in Ohio would have a run on all things iPod today. Costco AND Sam's Club AND Target were all out of 16gb IPod nanos. And everything else you needed. Seriously. I got the last one at Target. And it wasn't even an attractive color. At least I've got somewhere to put my tunes though.
I tend to compare my iPod to my car, Mel [because he's a Lethal Weapon. Clever, huh?]. I don't care what kind of car i have, just as long as it gets me from point A to point B.
....House Hunters Marathon, Take 2. Curse you, HGTV.
Friday, January 7, 2011
At It Again
Right this very second there are two things that I highly dislike at the moment:
1. SPCA commericals. Do you REALIZE how sad those things are? And the commericals themselves go on for an abnormal amount of time. They shouldn't be allowed to air. They make me too sad.
2. The Cotton Bowl. I'm bitter. LSU won. End of story.
I'm sitting here watching HGTV's House Hunters International and this family is looking for a house in Sicily, Italy. I am convinced that I am supposed to travel. I just don't necessarily think I'm supposed to stay in the US and spread Jesus' love. I mean that's AWESOME, don't get me wrong! And I'll keep doing it forever and ever! Traveling to spread it just sounds SO appealing to me. But it all depends on what the LORD says anyway. His words are my fuel.
GEEZ. Just became extremely extremely tired (that's the other thing about me--I say everything twice). Buenes Noche, World. (: Listen to the Father and stand with your Arms Open Wide.
1. SPCA commericals. Do you REALIZE how sad those things are? And the commericals themselves go on for an abnormal amount of time. They shouldn't be allowed to air. They make me too sad.
2. The Cotton Bowl. I'm bitter. LSU won. End of story.
I'm sitting here watching HGTV's House Hunters International and this family is looking for a house in Sicily, Italy. I am convinced that I am supposed to travel. I just don't necessarily think I'm supposed to stay in the US and spread Jesus' love. I mean that's AWESOME, don't get me wrong! And I'll keep doing it forever and ever! Traveling to spread it just sounds SO appealing to me. But it all depends on what the LORD says anyway. His words are my fuel.
GEEZ. Just became extremely extremely tired (that's the other thing about me--I say everything twice). Buenes Noche, World. (: Listen to the Father and stand with your Arms Open Wide.
Here I Stand
There are a few things you will learn about me:
1. I LOVE making lists. It's a habit of mine.
2. I can be stubborn. When listening to God and to others.
3. This is about the millionth blog I've started. But I think this one I might actually be consistent with.
God has been teaching me some very important lessons lately. In the past year alone, I think I've learned about a billion (I also like to over exaggerate with numbers). I don't always learn right away and I know that. But I'm learning to fix that and respond instantly to his callings.
For example, I just started a youth ministry internship at my church which has been awesome already. I know He has called me to be in Youth Ministry at some point in my life so I'm going undercover right now to see how the "behind-the-scenes" goes. This insight thing sure is interesting.
I'm also UBER confused about what He wants for my future. Does He want me to go straight into YM? Get a degree in something else that helps me stand on my own two feet first? Or does He want something altogether different for me? I've discovered the company called YWAM (Youth With a Mission) and that instantly caught my attention. I'm not altogether sure exactly what goes into it, but I do know that it consists of going to different countries to spread the love of Jesus. HOW COOL! (:
So anyway. This is my first account of what He's teaching me, how stubborn I sometimes become about it, how it ends up, and my obsession with:
1. Coffee
2. Lists
3. Jesus
4. Church
5. ESPN/sports
In no particular order. Well, Jesus always comes first. (:
Here I am...arms open wide to you, God.
1. I LOVE making lists. It's a habit of mine.
2. I can be stubborn. When listening to God and to others.
3. This is about the millionth blog I've started. But I think this one I might actually be consistent with.
God has been teaching me some very important lessons lately. In the past year alone, I think I've learned about a billion (I also like to over exaggerate with numbers). I don't always learn right away and I know that. But I'm learning to fix that and respond instantly to his callings.
For example, I just started a youth ministry internship at my church which has been awesome already. I know He has called me to be in Youth Ministry at some point in my life so I'm going undercover right now to see how the "behind-the-scenes" goes. This insight thing sure is interesting.
I'm also UBER confused about what He wants for my future. Does He want me to go straight into YM? Get a degree in something else that helps me stand on my own two feet first? Or does He want something altogether different for me? I've discovered the company called YWAM (Youth With a Mission) and that instantly caught my attention. I'm not altogether sure exactly what goes into it, but I do know that it consists of going to different countries to spread the love of Jesus. HOW COOL! (:
So anyway. This is my first account of what He's teaching me, how stubborn I sometimes become about it, how it ends up, and my obsession with:
1. Coffee
2. Lists
3. Jesus
4. Church
5. ESPN/sports
In no particular order. Well, Jesus always comes first. (:
Here I am...arms open wide to you, God.
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