Something to Think About

I recently started a weekly Bible study over the book of John. The study is a very detailed look at a specific book of the Bible over the course of a year. My mom was my primary motivation for joining this Bible study, as she was part of one in Colorado for nine years. Her experience with Bible Study Fellowship International (which is the official name of the study) blessed her with a tremendous amount of spiritual growth and allowed her to develop an intimate relationship with Jesus.

After my first two weeks in BSF, I can understand why my mom loved this study so much and how she experienced such growth. This week, the study focused on the first chapter of John. I've read this portion of the Bible I don't know how many times. But my daily studies from BSF helped direct my focus to details that I had never fully contemplated.

One thing I love about this study is that it draws connections between verses in John and lines from other parts of the Bible. This week, one question directed me to identify what information was in Colossians 1:16 that was not in John 1:3. These verses are very similar, but Colossians 1:16 talks about how all of creation was not only made through Jesus Christ, but also for Him. Focusing on this part of the verse really made me think about my true purpose in life. I was created for God... to enjoy Him, glorify Him, and connect with Him in a deep relationship.

Another part of the study this week got me thinking more about my life's aim and purpose. John 1:6-9 gives a glimpse of John the Baptist and discusses his work in life. These verses state that John the Baptist came as "a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all men might believe." His primary purpose for living was to proclaim Christ's coming and to reveal his saving grace to everyone he encountered. I am sad to say that this is not typically my main goal in my day-to-day life. I need to be more bold in my faith so that I also can be a witness of Jesus' love. Definitely something to think about...

18 Days and Counting!

It's official. In 18 days I will be picking my mommy up from the airport and bringing her to stay in our Florida apartment for the first time. And in 19 days, my little sister will be coming to visit me too! I cannot express how thrilled I am at the thought of seeing my family again. I only wish that my daddy could come too. Let's hope that he feels so left out that he caves in a buys a plane ticket to Florida!

There are so many things that I am looking forward too about having my mom and sister here. I can't wait to show them our little apartment, decorated with a variety of my grammie's old furniture. I can't wait to wake up in the morning to their pretty faces, knowing that I don't have to go to work, but instead that I get to spend the whole day with them. I can't wait to go shopping with the girls, get dressed up for a movie night or a dinner out, or cuddle up on the couch with popcorn and a chick flick. As you can tell, I just can't wait for them to get here in general!

I'm also going to use their visit as an excuse to make an array of delicious foods. I'm already planning on making lasagne, and of course I have to make decadent desserts for my special guests :-). I saw a recipe for tiramisu in a magazine, and I may finally have a reason to make it since there will be more than one coffee lover in our home. I am also planning on making some homemade ice cream for them too, so they can get a taste of what Ryan and I have developed an addiction for.

I feel so blessed that I will be seeing two people that I love the most in less than a month! As you could probably guess, I'm definitely counting down the days to their arrival!

My First Blogging Award!

Thanks to Tatiana at "Living life and loving it," I have received my very first blogging award! She was sweet enough to name me a "Kreativ Blogger." If you have not seen her blog, please check it out. Tatiana has such wonderful personality and wit in her writing, and she is a great witness of her faith in Jesus. The rules are below:

1-Thank the person who nominated you for this award.
2-Copy the logo and place it on your blog.
3-Link to the person who nominated you for this award.
4-Name 7 things about yourself that people may not know.
5-Nominate 7 Kreativ Bloggers.
6-Post links to the 7 blogs you nominate.
7-Leave a comment on each of the blogs letting them know they've been nominated.

Here are 7 things about me:

1. I would love to go on a mission trip with my husband.

2. If I could choose to have a specific talent, I would sing like Whitney Houston.

3. I want to publish my "Unexpected Love Story" piece as a series for teenage girls (maybe in a Christian magazine like Brio).

4. As a little girl, my favorite outfit consisted of my pink tutu, pink tights, and pink high heels.

5. My favorite Bible verse is Hebrews 10:23: "Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful."

6. I am such a typical girl because I am constantly thinking of good names for my future children (even though I probably won't have children for some time:-)).

7. I've read Great Expectations 4 times and enjoyed it every time (you can tell I'm an English nerd).

Now for the nominations for other "Kreativ Bloggers." Unfortunately, I haven't explored other blogs enough to nominate 7, but here are a few blogs that I love. Coincidentally, they are all girls that I love too!

Jenna

Stephanie

Courtney

Our Weekend...Not According to Plan

For the second weekend in a row, Ryan and I made plans to go to Seaworld. Last Saturday, we didn't get an early enough start to go all the way to Orlando. But this time, we made sure to pack food the night before, set our alarm for the next morning, and print off driving directions... our plan was set and nothing could get in our way! It turns out, we were wrong. After driving the hour and a half to Orlando, we paid for parking, approached the ticket counter, and presented our military identifications with smiling and excited faces. Active duty members and their dependents are allowed free entrance into parks like Seaworld, Busch Gardens, and other places. What we didn't know is that they are only allowed one free entrance per year, and Ryan had already gone with his friends in February. Making matters worse, I couldn't get a free ticket either, even though I hadn't yet used my one-time free entrance. As the woman at the ticket counter explained all of this to us, Ryan and I looked at each other in bewilderment, wondering what to do. We finally decided we would buy the tickets, as we had driven so far to get there. Our stomachs dropped when we heard the dreaded words of the ticket woman, "That will be $143 dollars." My hand flew to my mouth, and Ryan timidly handed her his credit card. After we received our tickets and had entered through the front gates, we talked and decided to turn right back and get a refund. While we had both been excited for a day of fun with the whales and dolphins, we weren't willing to spend our entire month's entertainment funds in one day. So we were in Orlando and at a complete loss of what to do. I must admit, I shed a few silly tears at the frustrating disappointment. Like a little kid, I had been looking forward to our Seaworld outing the whole week leading up to it, and now all of our plans were falling apart. We finally decided to go to the Hard Rock Cafe for lunch, remembering that there was a Hard Rock casino and hotel on the way back home. But of course, this plan didn't work either. Incredibly, the Hard Rock casino and hotel does not have a Hard Rock Cafe, only a large number of senior citizens staring at slot machines.

After all of our failed plans, we decided to give up and go home. Thankfully, our day was not a complete waste. We were able to enjoy some time at the pool, on one of the first days of bearable humidity level and temperature. Later we went to a fun area of Tampa called Channelside. In search of a good restaurant, we wandered down the street of shops, observing all of the entertaining things to do there. After eating outside at a casual southern restaurant, listening to the live music in the square, we were excited to finally know of a place to go on the weekends. There was the Imax theater, unconventional bowling alley with live music and food, and talented street artists. I guess we have date night opportunities for the next few weeks!

To top off our weekend, we attended a young married group at church this morning. Every person there was so welcoming and friendly. Ryan and I felt at ease immediately and became excited to not only study God's Word, but also to make new friends. We are so thankful that God has directed us to a church where we can grow in Him and form relationships with people who share our beliefs. Even though our weekend may not have gone exactly according to plan, we're happy with how it all turned out in the end!

A Fun Questionnaire

Hi everyone! I was given this list of questions to complete by Tatiana. If you haven't seen her blog, take a minute to check it out... It's too cute! Hope you're all having a good week! The rules and questions are below:

1. Respond and rework: Answer the questions on your blog,

Replace one question that you dislike with a question

of your own invention, and add one more question of your own.

2. Tag other un-tagged people.

What is your current obsession?

I don't know if I would call it an obsession because I don't necessarily enjoy having to deal with it, but getting prepared to go back to school in the Spring is definitely a major focus right now. I've been thinking about it (and of course stressing) quite a bit lately. Transfering schools is not very much fun! Another obsession that my husband and I have recently developed is our love of homemade ice cream from our new ice cream maker. Delicious!!!!

Who was the last person you hugged?

My husband. He gives the best hugs ever :-).

What's your favorite dinner?

Hmmm... That's difficult because I just love food in general. It's probably a three-way tie between breakfast for dinner (pancakes, waffles, french toast), chicken pesto pasta, and steak with artichokes. Ugh, I'm getting hungry just thinking about all this amazing food!

What is the most encouraging thing God has shown you about His character lately?

He works wonders through His Word and in His answers to prayer. I just started a Bible study today called Bible Study Fellowship. The speaker shared an incredible story of spiritual transformation. She knew a woman who was raised in a very anti-Christian world religion. As this woman continued through life, she struggled to find the true purpose of life in her childhood beliefs. God tugged at her heart to open a dusty Bible she had stored in the back of her closet. Absent-mindedly, she flipped to the Gospel of John and read the entire book in one sitting. After reading God's inspiring word and the good news of Jesus, she cried out to the Lord and proclaimed her belief in the truth of His Word. How awesome is that!

What are you listening to right now?

I'm sitting in silence right now. It's nice to enjoy some peace and quiet after a day at work, with the constant noise of cash registers, blenders, and food timers going off.

What is your favorite weather?

I like when the weather is in the 80's with LOW HUMIDITY. The humidity part is very important to me after living in Florida heat for the past two months. I also love Autumn in Colorado, when the weather gets just cool enough to wear a sweater, but the sun still shines and the leaves are crisp and brightly colored.

What is your least favorite season?

Right now in Florida. Haha! I don't like walking outside and feeling like I'm in a sauna!

What's in your purse?

Chapstick (always), wallet, pen, snacks, old receipts that I never get around to throwing away, cell phone.

Say something to the person who tagged you:

Tatiana is such a sweet, spunky, and beautiful girl with great style and taste. She has a special talent for drawing you into every one of her stories, and she clearly tries to live her life in Christ-centered faith.

What is your favorite dessert or cool treat?

(Besides our homemade ice cream) Ben & Jerry's "Imagine Whirled Peace" ice cream and dulce de leche cheesecake at Cheesecake Factory

What did you want to become as a child?

A singer/actress, a teacher, a photographer, a marine biologist (due to Free Willy, haha), and a writer.

What do you want to be now?

I still would like to be a writer of some sort, and eventually get work in editing or publishing. As a person, I want to be someone who exudes love for my Savior, my husband, my family, my friends, and everyone else I meet. I want to be a clear reflection of 1 Corinthians 13:4.

What do you miss?

I miss my mom, dad, and sister terribly! I've always been so close to my family, and it's hard being far away from them. I miss my two grandmas who both passed away last year. I miss the beautiful Colorado mountains and wonderfully fresh air. I miss our family's little crazy dog, who is also back in Colorado. But one thing I don't miss is being away from the man I love. It's so awesome getting to see his face every day!

Which is you favorite country/state, and why?

Even though I adored Spain when I traveled there with my family, I still feel so blessed to live in the U.S. And while there are many lovely things about Florida, I still love Colorado. The ocean is gorgeous, but the towering Rocky Mountains always stopped me in my tracks and made me feel awed at God's incredible creation.

If you could go anywhere in the world for the next hour, where would you go?

I would go to Chicago and wander the city with my little sissy. (I was going to say Colorado, but I haven't been to Chicago before, and I miss my sister like crazy!)

What are your most challenging goals right now?

Staying motivated and faithful as I prepare for school in the Spring and trusting God to resolve my hectic work schedule so that I can be a loving and attentive wife.

What is your 5 year plan?

Finishing school and starting a career in writing/editing/publishing. Drawing closer to my God and to my husband. Building new friendships in Florida and wherever the Coast Guard sends us next. Possibly thinking about adding to our family down the road (a while down the road :-)).

What is your favorite sport to watch?

I don't love watching sports, but because my huband definitely does, I am starting to like watching football and basketball more than I used to. And when there is a good tournament, like the recent US Open, I really like watching tennis.

What show would you want to be a cast member on (reality included)?

I guess I would be on House, just because I love that show and I can't think of anything else. Actually, I've recently become a big fan of "Reba," which is pretty cheesy but hilarious at the same time, so it might be fun to be a cast member on that!

What is your most prized possession?

I'm going to copy Tatiana and say my husband. I am so blessed to have him in my life, along with my incredible set of loving family members.

Name one favorite childhood memory.

Playing with my little sister, Jordan, in our make-shift fort/playhouse under the stairs of our Grammie's house. We always looked forward to visiting her and using our imaginations to create a wonderful world of our own!

Try it out if you have the time!

Jenna at "Jenna's Journeys"

Stephanie at "Life Together"

Courtney at "Starting Out"

"My Unexpected Love Story" continued

I thought it was time to post more of my work-in-progress story since it's been a while since I shared the introduction. This portion of the story gives a little more insight into female protagonist. I hope you like it. Let me know what you think or if you have any suggestions.

Kassidy

It’s funny the way life works; not at all according to the plans that we make for ourselves. I knew exactly what I wanted out of life, or at least I thought I did. I’ve always had high hopes for achievement in every phase of my life. During kindergarten, I had to make sure that every apple on my tree was colored to perfection before I went to enjoy recess with the other kids. During elementary school, I would not settle for anything less than spectacular when it came to book reports or class projects. During middle school, I simply had to be the valedictorian of my class. During high school, my goal was to achieve straight A’s throughout the entire four years. I accomplished every one of my endeavors to my great satisfaction. So I moved onto the next plans for my bright future.

I would earn a degree at a prestigious university, then proceed to earn my Master’s degree at an even more prestigious university, then live the rest of my life out in success and happiness. Perhaps I’d find Mr. Right out there somewhere, and we would have two adorable children. But if that didn’t happen, oh well, because I would always have my career. Besides, I had more-or-less relinquished my vision of prince charming years ago. I used to have an entire list of traits that were essential to my ideal guy. As time went by, however, my list dwindled as I began to wonder whether I would simply have to settle for Mr. Almost Right. I understood that nobody can be perfect and that love is not always like a fairytale or “happily ever after.” But I also believed, whether I truly realized it or not, that there had to be something more than good enough.

The Simple Things

Tonight, I got home from a very long day at work, walked through the door to our apartment, and saw the smiling face of my husband. Immediately, I felt satisfied. My contentment was only enhanced when he welcomed me with a sweet hug and kiss and then asked "Are you ready for some pancakes?" I don't know why, but pancakes are one of the best kinds of comfort food. And after working all day, I was definitely willing to welcome such comfort. Ryan and I made pancakes and bacon together in our little kitchen, happy to be in each other's company. Our breakfast-for-dinner meal was a complete success. The fluffy pancakes topped with warm, sweet, sticky syrup melted away the day's busyness, and I was able to slip into an aura of ease in the company of my wonderful husband. After I had finished eating, I sat sipping my deliciously foamy Irish sweet cream latte and let out a long sigh of contentment, realizing that the simple things in life really are the best. I absolutely could not be happier with my life while I am enjoying some good old fashioned comfort food and quality time with the man I love. These little moments help me to remember on a daily basis how blessed I am. God has given me so much, and I do not show Him often enough how thankful and awed I feel for every one of His gifts. How funny that pancakes inspired such gratitude in me! But there it is. Thank you Jesus for the simple things and everything in between.

My Favorite Poem

For some unexplained reason, I was thinking about my favorite poem today. I went to the bookshelf and retrieved my volume of poetry by Billy Collins, opened to the page where my place is kept permanently by the folded corner, and started reading the lovely poem. I don't know why I am so enamored by these words. Like many poems, this one doesn't even make total sense. I guess I just love how the words flow in a way that an image is created for you. Because I'm such a romantic, I also love the theme behind the poem. It talks about a deep desire to be ever-near to the one you love, because being with that person is the only timeless thing. When other experiences and objects fade away, the love people feel toward one other goes on. The first few lines are the most beautiful poetic lines I've ever read. I hope you like it!

Dancing Toward Bethlehem

If there is only enough time in the final

minutes of the twentieth century for one last dance

I would like to be dancing it slowly with you,

say, in the ballrooom of a seaside hotel.

My palm would press into the small of your back

as the past hundred years collapsed into a pile

of mirrors or buttons or frivolous shoes,

just as the floor of the nineteenth century gave way

and disappeared in a red cloud of brick dust.

There will be no time to order another drink

or worry about what was never said,

not with the orchestra sliding into the sea

and all our attention devoted to humming

whatever it was they were playing.

How Did I Get So Lucky?

I really don't know how I managed to marry such an incredible man! Even on days when I am feeling overwhelmed, grumpy, or stressed, Ryan treats me like a princess and finds special ways to show me how much he loves me. Last night, I came home from work to find a beautiful bouquet of colorful daisies on our kitchen table, along with an adorable note from my husband. Throughout our entire relationship, he has always been so thoughtful, and he continues to romance me in our marriage. He has never needed a special occasion to send me flowers.

Tonight, Ryan gained even more brownie points with me :-). Once again, I came home from work to be greeted by a special surprise. The house was tidied up, and several other chores that I hadn't completed earlier in the day were done. My husband's generosity, selflessness, and thoughfulness are qualities that make me feel ever-more blessed to have him in my life. I cannot thank him enough for the joy and love he gives to me. God led me toward one extraordinary man for me to share my life with! How did I get so lucky?

Grammie

Perhaps it's because of her furniture filling up my apartment, the photos hanging on my walls, or just her unforgettable nature, but I have not been able to stop thinking about my Grammie lately. She's been gone for almost a year. So hard to believe. And sometimes I still feel like her fight with cancer was just a bad

dream-- that I can just call her up, hear her voice, and it will all be okay. I wish that was the case. I wish that she could have been here to see my wedding, to hear about how much I love the bedspread she bought for us, to listen to me telling her about everyday life. I wish that I could look forward to her sweet voice singing me happy birthday over the phone.

Even though her absence fills me with sadness and a longing to see her again, Grammie's legacy also gives me an overwhelming sense of joy and gratitude that she was part of my life. She was a woman of great faith, kindness, generosity, and spunk. I would like to share some of the things that I loved and continue to cherish about my precious Grammie.

The way she had a song for every situation

The way she called me Sugar Plum

The way I had to bend down to hug her tiny body

Her sense of fashion

Her collections of roosters, sunflowers, and angels

Her dramatic side

Her crazy stories about her life

Her faith in Jesus

Her adorable and contagious laughter

How she made fish and chips

How she introduced me to The Sound of Music

How she always gave people the benefit of the doubt

How she never sat down to eat until everyone else had food on their plates

How she loved her family with all of her heart...

And how people could not help but love her.