never a dull moment

Confessions of a Children's Minister (or maybe just a girl trying to figure things out)

2011-11-07T21:40:00.000-05:00

Two of my friends and I are studying 1 John. It may be ashort book, but it's packed with content and truth. The past two weeks onetheme we've studied has kept reoccurring. You know how John keeps saying toabide in Christ (2:27, 2:28, 3:17, 4:13, etc)? Well, I think the Lord is tryingto hammer a truth into my shallow mind.

Last Tuesday night, I hosted a table for our Deacon andElder Banquet. This introvert was nervous about hosting a table for people I've never met. Fortunately, itwas a really good time,and the Lord rocked my world by the guest speaker, who is a church planter inLas Vegas. He shared many great points about the church and reaching ourcommunities for the Gospel. However, he said one thing that resonatedespecially strong: "God's primary goal for my life is not ministry. It'sintimacy." Wow. He went on to say that our ministry should be an overflowof our intimacy with Him.

I was so convicted by this. It reminded me of 1 Johnwhere John is repeatedly telling us to abide in Christ. As we abide in Christour love overflows, our desires for the world will wane, we will haveconfidence in Him, and we will have boldness in our faith. Correct me if I'mmistaken, but the main point in John 15 is not that we should bear fruit butthat we should abide in Christ. The more we abide in Christ, the more fruit webear.

[4] Abide in me, andI in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in thevine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. [5] I am the vine; you are thebranches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit,for apart from me you can do nothing. [6] If anyone does not abide in me he isthrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, throwninto the fire, and burned.

(John 15:4-6 ESV)

Personal application: I spend so much time worrying (yes, Iknow.. sin) about kidmin. I'm planning, administrating, making phone calls andwriting emails, learning about special needs, figuring out kidmin verses family ministry, etc. etc. etc. You get the point. The past three weeksI've often come home feeling defeated and I began to ask myself why. Then boom!Right in the heart. I realized I've spent more time planning and administratingthan I have with the Lord. In fact, some days I'm so tired of doing"ministry," that I'd rather not open my Bible.

How messed up is that? A major reason why I've been hittingwalls lately is because I've not spent enough time with the Father. My heartshould be more burdened for intimacy with the Father than in kidmin. He, afterall, is the only one who can make good come from our service. How can we keepthe Gospel central in our lives and our ministries if we're not spending timewith the Lord?

If we want to be effective vessels for the Gospel to changethe lives of our families, neighbors, coworkers, or ministries, then we mustsaturate ourselves with the Gospel. Intimacy with the Lord through studying theWord and prayer is where it all starts.

three months already?

2011-10-07T22:32:00.001-04:00

Crazy. This past Wednesday I celebrated my three month anniversary at my new job. Time flies by so fast! Well, in honor of my first three months, I'd like to share three things I've learned so far about my new home.

1. Paying for pest control gives you peace of mind. I have crazy dreams but I normally sleep through them. However, waking up at 3am to a roach climbing up your wall is no fun. But now my apt is powdered, sprayed, and filled with traps. If you need a recommendation for a good exterminator, let me know!

2. Atlanta is a pretty cool city. Yes, the traffic is bad, but if you know how to get around it, you can find fun places to shop, eat, and hang out. I'm so excited to go ice skating in the park in downtown ATL this Christmas.

3. Only driving a mile to work every day is so convenient. I only fill my car with gas every 2-3 weeks. Since my car isn't the most reliable, it's good to know that if I ever have to walk to work, it's totally possible.

To sum it all up: God provides. Enough said.

hold your horses!

2011-09-27T22:21:00.004-04:00

I'm not sure where that phrase originated, but I've been saying it to myself quite often. The more I learn about the ministries I oversee, the more passionate I am about my job. When I am passionate about something or when I see a need, I want to jump in head first. While my heart is in the right place, my response probably needs to be refined.

Rome wasn't built in a day. Well, they should have gotten more engineers and hired more help because this phrase is slowing me down!

But It's slowing me down for good reason. Today, as I was getting all passionate and excited about a ministry, I had a rude wake-up call that this wasn't going to be easy. In fact, this was going to be difficult and it was going to take a lot of time, intense preparation, and a lot of waiting. Thoughts of discouragement and doubt began to sweep through my mind, but then I remembered that I've only been at my church for three months. Wait, it hasn't even been three months yet!

I tend to get ahead of myself and the Lord. That never works out very well. However, if I slow down and take each step with prayer and discernment, the tasks ahead don't seem so impossible and they'll work out much better than my own plans.

A dear friend recently shared Exodus 14:14 as she was listening to all my ideas, worries, and dreams for my job. "The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still." The Lord knows what needs to happen in the ministries I oversee, and he knows what's best. Ministry takes time. Figuring out how to do your job takes time! My boss wasn't joking when she said that it would take an entire year to figure it out. I have to remind myself to take my job one step at a time, and I must rely on the Lord for each step. And quite often, I just need to stop doing so much and trust the Lord to work things out in His timing.

Clemson Wins!

2011-09-17T22:38:00.006-04:00

Most people in the country could care less that Clemson won today. But for us, it was the first time we actually showed up to play football in 20 years. It was our first win over Auburn since the 1950s. That's a long time! I sat on my couch screeching, hitting the sofa, and jumping up and down as I watched us defeat Auburn 38-24. My neighbors must think I'm nuts. This game is a sign of hope for a football program that has embodied mediocrity for many years now. This win proves we have what it takes to compete for an ACC Title and a solid bowl match-up. I'm so proud to be a Clemson Tiger.. even when we lose. But it's really nice when we win. Good job today, Clemson!

we need you

2011-08-23T20:54:00.013-04:00

It's the start of a baseball game and you watch impatiently as the teams line the field for the National Anthem. The opposing team is standing long and strong, but you notice only one player from your team. You scratch your head in confusion and ask your friend next to you what's going on. He has no clue either. When the game starts, your team takes the field first. However, there's just one player and he's playing 3rd base. Now you're really confused. Who's going to pitch? Who's covering the outfield? This game was over well before it started.

In ministry, the game doesn't start until the volunteers arrive. In fact, there's no way we can do ministry without your help. Volunteers are the backbone. Sure, you have folks in the office planning events, classes, lesson materials, etc., but this isn't a one-man show. It takes a village to disciple, teach, serve, and raise up a generation that loves Jesus.

I work at a church that serves over 400 elementary-age kids. That's a lot! We need people to give their time not only as teachers, but also as chaperons, greeters, special needs buddies, coaches, coordinators, etc. I lead the hospitality ministry for our computer check-in area on Sunday mornings. Hundreds of families come through needing to print security tags for their children. This is very important to the security of our church family. I need volunteers who know how to navigate the computer kiosks, to welcome new families with warmth, and to enter visitor data. I can't do all those things by myself! I would have written a resignation letter weeks ago.

Without you, how will we share the Gospel effectively? Sure, God doesn't need us. However, he chooses to use us. We are part of the His body. In a typical children's ministry situation, your children's minister may be the organizer or the "brain" of the operation, but we need you to be the hands, the feet, the eyes, the mouth.

A baseball game can't happen unless you have nine men on the field, playing specific roles that accomplish the task of winning the game. Ministry doesn't happen without the body of Christ working together in various roles to accomplish the extremely important task of spreading the Gospel. We spread it by teaching, serving, greeting, building, computing, cooking, mentoring, singing... the list goes on! I have folks in my hospitality ministry who don't teach, but they are very tech savvy. This ability greatly serves our visitors on Sunday mornings. Don't think that because you can't teach or sing that you're not valuable. The truth is, you're invaluable and there is a place for you! 1 Corinthians 12:15-20 says,

Now if the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. If they were all one part, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, but one body.

Many parts, one body. Many positions on the field, one team. My church has dozens of ministries, but we're one team. We need a village of willing people to help us spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We need you. Being the body of Christ, the church, isn't just listening to a sermon on Sunday mornings. Being the church is working together and giving of ourselves for the sake of the Gospel every single day.

The first pitch is about to be thrown. What position will you play?

you can stop pinching yourself now

2011-08-13T00:15:00.008-04:00

Really? I can? Because this doesn't seem real. I began my first full time job ever just over a month ago. After graduating from college in 2009, moving to Nashville, two summers of camp, one internship, and five part-time jobs later (three of which happened at the same time), I have a career. Whew.. are you tired yet?

But God's hand is all over the last two years. Moving to Nashville after college wasn't an accident, mistake, or a freak whim. God orchestrated that crazy endeavor for a purpose. I moved to Tennessee with one end goal in mind, but God had another plan. We've heard it a thousand times, but it's so true: Jeremiah 29:11 says, "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord,' plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" When I didn't get the internship I originally wanted, God opened the door to intern at a church in kids ministry. Life hasn't been the same since.

Four months ago, I began the long interview process for a full time job at the church in which I now work. I'm still pinching myself that it's real because I still don't understand how I'm qualified for my position as Children's Associate. I work on a phenomenal staff who are a joy to serve alongside. We work hard and play hard. There's nothing like working on your hospitality grids when someone suddenly starts shooting marshmallows at you with her "Bow & Mallow."

Each day I'm reminded why I love kids ministry so much, but I'm also reminded that this is no easy task. Luke 12:48 says, "... Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more." Working in kidmin is a blast, but it also comes with great responsibility.

Though I'm no longer living in quaint cabins or setting up rec fields, I'm still serving in a ministry that I absolutely love. Each day the Lord allows me to serve in a ministry that spreads the Gospel to children. Each day I'm reminded that I cannot do this alone (believe me.. I've tried and failed). Whatever good that comes from ministry, is completely from the Lord. Isaiah 43 reminds us that we're not our own and we are created for God's glory. Our lives are meant to point back to Christ. May these kiddos only see Jesus.

Quote

2011-04-29T22:24:00.005-04:00

My dear friend, Meredyth, sent me an email today to share the following quote by Al Mohler from a recent interview. Family ministry is near to my heart, so I thought this was a good quote to share with you too.

"I think the one great lesson the Lord has taught me over these years is that the importance of the family and the local congregation supersedes every other relationship to which the Christian is called. Christians demonstrate the glory of God and the power of the gospel by the way we marry and stay married, by the way we raise our children, by the way we love each other, and by the way we live faithfully in the congregation of believers. In the end, I fear that far too much energy is devoted to and far too many hopes are invested in institutions, programs, and projects that will not last. The centrality of Christ’s purpose to glorify himself in His church and the blessings of God that are directed to the precious gift of the family — these far exceed our other allegiances."

2010-08-06T23:45:00.003-04:00

My new niece and her big brother: Julianna Grace Rowell and Christopher!!

Updates!

2010-04-19T22:04:00.004-04:00

I figured it was time to update this thing.

During March, I served with Beach Reach in Panama City Beach, Florida as the Program Director. I thoroughly enjoyed serving in the worship services. I had two iMacs, a sweet sound system, and an awesome group of folks serving alongside me running sound, preaching, and leading worship. The actual ministry part was hand-on. We provided a pancake breakfast four mornings a week and van rides 5 nights a week for all the Spring Breakers. We served thousands upon thousands of students. We had college students (Beach Reachers) serving at the pancake breakfasts, on the streets, in the prayer room, managing the hotline, and in the vans. Tons of spiritual conversations happened and God moved in big ways.

Since returning to Nashville, I have begun preparing for this summer of camp. I'm so excited to serve my team as their Rec Leader (Recreation) this summer! There's so much to be done before training week and I pray the Lord will do big things on the rec field this summer. I'm nervous about leading my team in this area of camp. My heart is to pour into the staff and train them well in rec so that they can more fully minister to these kiddos. My team seems awesome so far and I can already tell they are bringing so much to the table for ministry. Recreation rocks the Nation!!

Another update is the continued process of figuring out what do to after camp. Psalm 27:14 seems to be a theme verse for this year. Waiting on the Lord. I've sought out and prayed through several options. The Lord has closed the one door I didn't want him to ever close, but now I'm starting to see what he's up to. My heart is geared for children and for them to know and love Jesus. God has also been cultivating in me a passion for families too - to see parents discipling their kids and doing ministry together as a family. With that being said, I'm waiting to hear back about an internship I interviewed for a week ago here in the Nashville area. If I am accepted, it will begin an amazing journey for the next year! I'll keep you updated. :-)

Robot for President

2010-02-24T22:04:00.006-05:00

Every now and then I'm reminded of some random event/memory of my four years at Clemson. The recent Facebook group requests and statuses (stati?) about college Student Body Presidents brought back the memory of the elections from my freshman year. One of the candidates was indeed a robot, the Clemson Robot.

He would stand on the library bridge between classes campaigning. You might also find him on the popular Bowman Field playing Ultimate, at Fike playing basketball, or in class correcting his engineering professors. He came complete with a Facebook page and videos.

Yes, this was real. What's so funny is that he actually won the election. We actually had to vote a 2nd time because a robot was not allowed to represent the school.

Would you vote for a robot for your Student Body President?

There are three videos for the campaign. Here are two of the three videos.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY APRIL!!

2010-02-19T13:21:00.005-05:00

Today, one of my best friends, April Smith, turns 23 years old. This is the first birthday since we started college that I haven't been able to celebrate with her. That brings tears to my eyes.

April, I'm so excited for your birthday. Your parents and your amazing friends up at Southeastern are going to make this one very special. I'm so incredibly thankful and blessed for your friendship. I'll see you in two months dear friend for a belated reunion and b-day celebration. You are family. I love you friend!

A Much Needed Reminder

2010-02-02T23:30:00.012-05:00

CJ Mahaney's book, The Cross Centered Life, speaks volumes in very few words. Each chapter has brought forth great encouragement and great conviction. One key element I'm reminded of: Our salvation and God's grace towards his children doesn't change depending on our emotions.

I'm one to be careful of using the word "feel," especially in public. However, I often view the cross subjectively when it is, in fact, objective. The hum and drum of life has set in the last few weeks and my emotions have gained control in my thought life. I've allowed sin to seep into my mind to create a sense of fear and hopelessness. What if things don't work out for next year? What if I screw up this summer? What if I can't repay my loans? See the problem? The focus has been inward, which is the "subjective, the temporal, the ever-changing, the unreliable.." We need to be looking outward to the Gospel, which is the "never-changing, that which is perfectly reliable and always completely true."

The book states that we must be focused on extolling Christ and "we can do this regardless of how we feel, because the Gospel exists independently of us. The purpose of the Gospel, as Knox Chamblin has noted, is to 'proclaim saving events,' and its events remain completely unaffected by whatever is agitating our emotions. The Gospel is objective."

I'm reminded yet again that I must preach the Gospel to myself daily. Otherwise, we become bogged down in our fleeting emotions, fears, and sins. The message of the Gospel never changes. Christ died for our sins. As long as we're seeking the Cross, life will work itself out for His glory.

Long Run Survival

2010-01-26T22:59:00.014-05:00

The Scenic City Half Marathon in Chattanooga, TN is on February 27th. This will be my first attempt at any race larger than a 5k. My roommate, Mary, ran in college and she's been very helpful in my training endeavors. Last Saturday (a week ago) we ran from LifeWay to our apartment, which is 11.5 miles. This past Sunday after church I logged about 8 miles in Edwin and Percy Warner Parks. Since I had today off, I decided to explore the entirety of Percy Warner. It's huge. This took about 2 hours and it was probably 10-12 miles, give or take mileage because of all the hills. Long runs are something that take preparation and "strategery." I'd like to share some of the strategies that I believe are needed to survive these long and fun runs.

1. Multiple pieces of gum. You need it to keep your mouth from drying out. Being parched is never fun.

2. A charged iPod. Mine died near the end.

3. U2, Coldplay, Sara Bareilles, etc. Sara and I were loudly singing that we aren't "gonna write you a love song." I also enjoy my air-guitar solos with U2's The Edge in the middle of running down a hill. Oh "Pride in the Name of Love."

3. A lightly colored shirt over your UnderArmor. Running in cold weather clears your sinuses. A lightly colored shirt will show less snot than what actually exists. Gross, I know. However, it's unavoidable.

4. A map. Percy Warner is quite large. Without the map, you're sure to be lost for hours. Thank goodness I had one.

5. A camera. Unfortunately, I can't just travel with mine. If only I owned an iPhone - cell phone, iPod, and camera all in one! Along my run were beautiful overlooks, streams, and more chipmunks than I've seen my entire life. I guess the "Rescue Rangers" were looking out for me in case something had happened. Someone please tell me they understood that reference.

6. Talk to yourself. When you hit the proverbial walls in your runs, talking to yourself really helps. I use the Crosspoint Camp mentality of yelling, "Come on, Mad Dog, you can do this. Finish this hill! You got this!"

You probably think I'm crazy. Well, yes I am. :-)

Newspaper Party!

2010-01-21T17:26:00.012-05:00

The following is an amazing activity I learned several years ago working for a different camp besides CK. You can play this game with 20 - 100 kids. You just have to establish decent-size teams, have enough space, and be able to gather enough materials (i.e. newspaper). You'll need each stack of newspaper to be about as high as your knee. It's a blast and the kids will love it! Keep in mind that it is a bit messy because of all the ink on the newspapers. You can always add more games to the line-up. Those are just 6 to get you going. I made up each of the game titles and the debrief. You can always change it to what fits best for your group.

NEWSPAPER PARTY

Divide up your space into large squares, one for each team - large enough for play space. In each square place a large stack of newspapers (remember - about as tall as your knee). Now you are ready to play a series of games with this Newspaper. The team with the most points at the end, wins.

1. "Find the Story" Place within the stack about 5 sheets of brightly colored paper. The group to find all 5 in their stack wins. This will allow the newspaper to get everywhere.

2. "People of the News" Have the group pick a staffer (or another child) (or even two for the team) and the kids have to decorate those people of their choice with the newspaper. They could make a princess, knight, statue of liberty, ANYTHING. Judge by the most creative.

3. "Undercover News" The team who can burry themselves under the newspaper and be the least visible wins. B/c you have so many children you may want to designate those who hide and those who help burry. Otherwise, they have to hide and burry themselves at once. It's really funny to see the end result.

4. "The Big Feature" A feature is a really big part of the news that day. In this case, it's the tallest tower. Thing of it as a play on words (room feature maybe?) The teams now see who can build the tallest tower with their newspaper. I don't care how they do it as long as they only use newspaper. Give them a time limit (or a deadline) and see what they do. Also, have them name their towers.

5. "Extra Extra, Read All About It!" So, you've got all this newspaper and now you need to get it out to the masses. In the game's case, the "masses" are the other teams. The groups have to try to get all their paper on the other teams' squares. This is mass chaos with paper flying everywhere at once. Here's a rule to keep it more "organized" - the kiddos have to stay in their own squares. This also prevents injury. This is another timed event.

6. "Deadline!" The game is almost over and they have to meet their last deadline. Give them a time limit - hilarious. Give each team some trash bags and the team to clean up all the newspaper the fastest wins. This also makes clean-up a breeze.

Debrief

You can probably gather a ton of debriefs for this. The one I have may be a bit cheesy, but it works. Ask the kids what kind of news they might find in the newspaper. Then you can tell them how we can learn a lot about our world from reading the Newspaper, but it doesn't tell us about the most important news we'll ever need to know, the Good News, which is the Gospel. And as always, there are a multitude of scriptures passages to use to explain who Jesus is and why this news is so important.

What do you think?

VBS.. Dig it!

2010-01-08T14:49:00.003-05:00

The above title was the catch phrase from a VBS theme many years ago. My roommate is currently working a VBS preview weekend, and she's got me thinking about my childhood experiences with his program. I absolutely loved VBS. I mean, you played games, sang/danced, made crafts, and learned about Jesus for a whole week (maybe more weeks considering most churches host this ministry). It can be an effective way to reach out to the community. I know lots of kids who came but never attended my church.

We have all the VBS supplies ready on the shelf at work, which is where I discovered that there is now a VBS curriculum for teens. They didn't that that "back in the day" when I was a teenager. :-)

Any way, it's a really cool ministry tool and it definitely benefitted my spiritual life greatly! Also, I still remember some of the theme songs, which have been popping in my head the last week.

Here are a few themes I remember..

Star Quest Galactic Good News

Good News Ocean Odyssey

Amazon Outfitters

Truth Trackers

Great Kingdom Caper.

Here's to random, fun VBS songs popping into your head.

Thankful - Random post

2009-12-21T00:36:00.006-05:00

It's crazy that Christmas is just 4 days away. Where did the time go? It seems like I moved to Nashville yesterday, but in reality that was nearly 5 months ago. You know, the Lord really has provided in big ways since moving here. I've made some great friends who have welcomed me into their lives. A huge concern in early August was finding a job. Rent doesn't pay itself. However, God provided a great part-time job at a christian bookstore, which is actually quite rewarding . Some of our customers come in needing a Bible, or another product, and have no clue what to get - that's when I have the opportunity to recommend something helpful and sound. My coworkers are great, so I always enjoy their interaction.

I hope I'll be able to continue working for this store when I move to school in the Fall.

I'm excited for what the next 5 months will bring. Nashville is truly a great city.

Merry Christmas

Writing.. ehh

2009-12-08T22:49:00.004-05:00

I'm not a writer. I don't claim to be, nor do I attempt to be one. Was that even a good/real sentence?

I'm becoming more aware of this fact as seminary approaches. See, in college I wrote a decent amount of papers. My biggest papers were written during my junior year to complete my psychology minor. My senior year, however, is another story. I wrote one paper: a one-page paper that was probably skimmed over by the professor. Audio Engineering majors do projects! It was very convenient, but it's going to come back to bite me next Fall.

My goal is to be set up for my best success come next year. The first part of that goal is to read more, and I've read more over the past few months than I ever have without it being assigned. Now, I'm not exactly planning to write papers for the heck of it, but if you have any suggestions for preparing for the writing stage then please send them my way!

Friends have said to be prepared to be humbled once I start school. I'm feeling the humility beginning to slap me in the face now. Thank goodness I'll have friends at school next year who were English majors in college.. should come in handy. :-)

Birmingham Adventures

2009-12-05T23:49:00.007-05:00

This weekend I went to Birmingham, Al to see one of my close friends from CentriKid, Ashley. She and I went to Chris Tomlin's "Glory in the Highest" concert and spent Saturday with another camp friend, Chris, around Bham. We also saw Disney's "A Christmas Carol" in 3D. Every time Ashley and I hang out, there's "never a dull moment." Seriously.. I have great stories to prove it. I'm so thankful for her friendship. She's full of wisdom, interesting facts/quotes, great stories, fun, and a heart full of love for the Lord.

Here are some photos from our adventures:

Posing with our awesome 3D glasses

Reindeer that poop candy.. no lie.

Ashley and I at the concert

Prophets and Other Interesting Folks

2009-12-03T00:27:00.006-05:00

Interesting folks come into the book store where I work. It's a Christian book store in downtown, so we have an array of business, homeless, and middle class folk. Every now and then, people come in who aren't exactly "all there." For example, two people proceeded to prophesy to me in one week. The prophesies were all extremely broad, such as "your questions will be answered soon." Or "you will continue your college aspirations." I could come up with a slew of comments in response to this.

Today a elderly man came in who basically told me I wasn't saved b/c I was Southern Baptist and apparently we don't believe the "whole truth." According to him, only Missionary Baptists believe the "whole truth" and I needed to attend one. He offered to take me to his church. I was polite, kind, and listened. However, my 10th birthday as a Christian is coming up this July, so I've got some darn good blessed assurance.

On the other hand, some awesome people also come into the store. These people have really great stories or just really encourage me in my ministry aspirations. Some people come in having no clue what to look for in a Bible, etc. That's a great opportunity to help them grow in their faith by recommending a great study bible and other solid study tools.

Meredyth suggested I should chronicle these fun adventuresome encounters I have at work. Perhaps this post was a start. What do you think? What are some of your crazy encounters?

Recreation Rocks the Nation!!

2009-11-24T23:43:00.004-05:00

Yes it sure does. About a month ago, I decided to work camp (yes, again!) this summer. Why not make it summer #7, right? Back over the summer and into August I mulled over the decision to apply for Recreation (Rec) Director. During the summer, I really wanted the position. In the end, I had put off the application too long and missed the deadline. It's a leadership position. That director is responsible for training, encouraging, and challenging her team to do rec well. To "strive for perfection and settle for excellence." I was scared of that responsibility. Recreation is my favorite part of camp and it's also a huge ministry tool. For some kids, rec is where the Gospel clicks. So much spiritual application happens during this time. I've thought about rec a lot the past couple of weeks off and on, but came to the decision that if the Lord desires Rec Director for me, he'll work that out. If not, I would love to teach bible study again.

Well, today I got a random phone call from the camp office offering me the opportunity to be a Rec Director. I haven't been this excited in who knows how long - nearly doing back flips (except that's physically impossible) Gosh.. wow... I'm so excited to pour into staff and see them love on kids this summer through rec. I'm excited to watch kids run, laugh, get shaving creamed, and understand the Gospel.

Another part of my job this summer will be as the liaison to the new junior staff program on my team. These will be high school students who come with their church group. They will get a taste of what it's like to "live the dream" - to be on staff. This will be challenging, but it will also be a great way to shepherd them in ministry to churches and children.

Listen, the opportunity to work camp won't last forever. My summers are numbered. However, it really is the best job ever. Since I was thirteen, it's been my "dream." Though I have new dreams for the future, such as getting married and having a family, these summers will always be so near and dear. So special. Such a ministry.

So the summer of 2010 listen now: RECREATION ROCKS THE NATION!!

Coolest Baptism

2009-11-22T22:45:00.005-05:00

Church this morning was so good! The current message series is on Creation and today we talked about the seventh day, the Sabbath, in Gen 2:1-3. Our pastor is such a teacher and is overflowing with knowledge. I could listen to him preach for hours. My favorite quote he's said since I started attending Fellowship is this: "Don't let the world teach you theology. Let the Word teach you theology."

Anyway, this morning also included a baptism of two middle school girls. Like Crosspoint, they broke out the good old horse trough. What was so unique and encouraging was that these girls' parents were involved in their baptism. A pastor came on stage, explained baptism, and led the entire process. However, the parents also gave a short testimony of how they see Christ working in the lives of these girls. While the pastor led the baptizing in speech, it was the fathers who actually dunked their daughters.

Fellowship really focuses on making sure the parents are an intricate part of the spiritual lives of their children, which is so encouraging. This morning was such a huge celebration in praise to the Lord.

Poison & Wine

2009-11-13T22:16:00.003-05:00

A friend introduced me to this new duo, The Civil Wars. They just released their first song, "Poison and Wine."
It's probably one of the best songs I've heard in a long time. It's very well orchestrated and the their voices are so good! Here's a video of the song.

Tell me what you think!!

Oh the Park

2009-11-13T11:38:00.007-05:00

Last Sunday I decided to branch out and explore Percy Warner Park. In the past I've only traveled so far into the park so as to not get lost. However, I discovered that I've been missing out on something beautiful. At the top of one of the "mountains" (really, they're very big hills) you can't hear any cars. All you hear is the wind in the trees, the leaves falling, and the occasional airplane in the sky. A deer and I had a little stare-down. I won. Running here is such a great escape - uninterrupted time to pray and seek the Lord. There are beautiful patches of grass to sit and read and have some quiet time. Here are some photos I took this morning. I didn't get all the photos I wanted, but I got a few good ones.

LOST

2009-11-11T22:23:00.002-05:00

About a month ago a friend recommended I check out the show LOST. It's about to enter into it's 6th season but I had never seen an episode. I attempt to stay away from shows that are addicting. I allow, at the most, one addicting show at a time. Last Fall it was House. Now, it's LOST. Thanks to www.hulu.com, I am currently on episode 2 of Season 2.
Here's why this show is so good: it's amazingly well written. The character development is spectacular and the plot is so in depth. Check it out - but beware that you'll probably get addicted.

So blessed

2009-10-30T23:49:00.004-04:00

Their are a host of things that I could write about here. The Lord has provided above and beyond throughout my life. I'm so thankful.

Last weekend I finally got to visit Clemson and my dear friends and church there. I've missed my best friends more than I can explain. The opportunity to spend some quality time with them blessed my heart. It was difficult to leave them knowing it may be months or more until I get to see them again.
Visiting Crosspoint was so refreshing. The Lord used this time to confirm some prayers when I helped out with Kids Connection. He reaffirmed my passion to work in children's ministry - it was so incredible! It's humbling to be remembered and hugged so much that night. I wasn't expecting that reception at all. In fact, I cried driving back to Meredyth's home that night. Reese told me that I "need to drop my job." In that moment, I wanted to drop it and move back to Clemson.
However, Clemson is not my home anymore. It's a place of fond memories, spiritual growth, and family. God has called me away and I have no doubts of that.

Driving to work on Wednesday morning I passed an interstate sign saying "Nashville" and for some reason that brought about such a sense of peace. Nashville has become home. God answered my prayers in huge ways - I have built so many relationships here in such a short amount of time. In fact, I stay fairly busy with friends. My community group is so good and I love my new church.

God has been providing in other ways too - ways that I didn't expect for a while, if ever. That's an exciting journey in itself. I'm slowly learning what it means to trust and wait on the Lord. To follow after his leadership and guidance and to live by faith.

Normally I'd be in a near panic about the future. However, why worry? I really do enjoy my job at LifeWay Christian Store. Seminary is on the horizon for next Fall and God is providing community here. As I pursue after options I must keep praying, waiting patiently, and trusting. I'm overwhelmed by God's faithfulness.

"Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the LORD!" - Psalm 27:14

Desert Song

2009-10-16T15:57:00.006-04:00

I'm a huge fan of Brooke Fraser. She's from New Zealand and has released two full albums, but is working on her third. Under her married name, Ligertwood, she writes songs for Hillsong in Australia. You've heard them: "Lead Me to the Cross," "Hosanna," "Desert Song," etc. From all I've heard from Hillsong, I like her music the best and it's usually the most solid lyrically.

I first heard "Desert Song" back in May and it's such a great song! It's about how God is still God despite all we may face in life. "All of my life / in every season / You are still God / I have a reason so sing / I have a reason to worship." Bring praise to God in every season.

The video is a live performance released by Hillsong.

Leadership

2009-10-12T23:50:00.002-04:00

This topic has been on my mind for a couple of days. I'm not really sure why. I've never been given a leadership role (not in college, not in my jobs, etc) so I'm not exactly an expert. However, I've served under countless leaders and experienced, from my point-of-view, great and poor leadership. Maybe my opinion on this topic is worthless, but after years of leaders I know what I respond to best and regard highly. There are two points that hit home first.

1. Lead by example. Wow.. if you're willing to do what you tell others to do, then you've gained so much respect. To me that represents humility and a genuine care for those you lead.

2. Intentional relational interaction. A great leader is intentional with those he/she leads. They truly desire to get to know others and build a relationship. That leadership then becomes relational. You are able to share life and understand one another better. I believe this allows you to better serve and lead your staff or group in a remarkable way. You have a better understanding of how to pray for them as well.

Christ exemplified these two points. Open up the gospels and you see how he loved, served, and gave up his life for us. His leadership over his disciples was one that was relational.

I believe leadership creates a chain reaction. How leadership begins at the top will trickle down through the ladder of others. If leadership is poor, your ministry will be poor. But if leadership is good, then your ministry will produce great fruit. Think about it.

I could go into more detail, but I'll leave my rambling thoughts at that.

Fall and Friends

2009-10-11T00:17:00.004-04:00

Fall is here and it's finally evident by the cooler air and the leaves on the ground! I love putting my jacket on in the morning. Y'all, autumn is my favorite season by far. Driving through the mountains in two weeks to visit Clemson is going to be beautiful.

Last night some dear friends from the summer came to Nashville. Seven girls from Combo Red and I went out to SATCO for dinner then went country line dancing. Afterwards, we came back to my APT and stayed up till 2:30 talking and catching up on life. I was blessed to work these fun and amazing women all summer. They were devoted to their ministry to kids and we bonded so well. Once someone uploads weekend photos to facebook, I'll put one up.

Tomorrow I am helping out with the East Nashville Kids Club with my church. I'm really looking forward to hanging out with some kiddos, playing some games, and sharing the Gospel with them. I'll keep you posted!

Fall Retreat and Today

2009-09-27T22:38:00.004-04:00

There's really no way to fully express everything I want to say. I just got back from the Inversion fall retreat this weekend. It was such a blessing to be able to go! It was a great time to get to know the girls in my Community Group and meet new friends. Inversion really is so different from college gatherings. While there are plenty of people in the same phase of life as me, many also have careers, are married, etc. We range from 18 to 30ish years of age. The theme was "Fully Alive" which was so good! I won't go into all we discussed b/c there's far too much to say, but I will mention one thing I've been learning. Nashville, as I've said before, is a very cool city that's growing on me. However, I love having life"figured out" or "planned out," but I realize I can't do that at all anymore. College was much simpler b/c it was all planned out. Four years of class, etc. However, college is over. I catch myself trying to look ahead and have a plan. Goals and desires are good, but I've learned that you can't plan life - it never goes the way you planned. The Lord has his own plans. I'm convicted that my mindset is often, "I can't wait for life to start." Stop! Life has already begun - it began 23 years ago! With that mindset how can we bring glory to God? All you have is what you have right now. Tomorrow isn't promised. I'm not promised a masters degree, a husband and family, a trip to Disney, or whatever you want to add to the list. "But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble." - Matthew 6:33-34

We are given today - what will we do with it? We were created to bring glory to God. We are to proclaim the Gospel. Be fully alive today.

"So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." - 1 Cor 10:31

Books

2009-09-20T19:57:00.005-04:00

I've never been a disciplined reader. Yes, I love a good book, but I've always lacked the knack to find those books. My sister took all the reading genes - she can turn pages faster than anyone I know. I love music so I naturally spend the money and time on that first. However, In the past month I've realized that I have no homework anymore. No reading assignments. No tests to prepare for. No Papers to write. This thing called time is so new, and a couple of weeks ago I found myself watching Gilmore Girl seasons and movies to pass that by, which is so wasteful! Then the realization hit that if I want to grow deeper in my knowledge of the Lord then I needed to be disciplined to study his word and read books. For the past year I've had a growing list and I'm determined to make that list begin to shrink! Last week I got a library card for the Nashville Public Libraries, which includes access to any library in the county. Books have been requested and the discipline for better reading has already begun. Here's three that are on the long list:

The Reason for God - Timothy Keller

The Atonement Child by Francine Rivers

Don't judge. So many people have said it's a good book.

Spiritual Disciplines by Donald S. Whitney

Other recommendations are welcome!

Community Group

2009-09-17T23:40:00.005-04:00

Fellowship's version of "CP Group" is called "Community Group." Tonight after Inversion my community group met for the first time. The groups are broken up by gender and all the girls in my group are in grad school or out in the work force. My two leaders are in their mid twenties: one is a nurse practitioner and one is in med school. We have a "mentor" who doesn't teach but serves as someone to answer questions, give guidance, etc. She's probably in her late forties and she used to be on staff with Crusade (originally from Raleigh, NC). Small world. I'm really excited about this time to walk life with some people here and build community.

Read this: One of the girls in my community group is studying abroad here this semester from China. Her name is Jessica (can't even think of how to spell her real name), and she's only been a Christian for a year. Keep reading.. for about a year an American woman lived in China as a missionary and spent a lot of time with Jessica sharing the Gospel with her. Jessica had never heard of Jesus, but now she's so excited about her faith. She's actively involved in her church back in China and is so excited to have a place to freely worship here in America. I didn't get to speak with her much tonight, but I have many questions for her. God is moving in China and Jessica is an example of how great and powerful he is!

The Parks

2009-09-16T21:55:00.006-04:00

While it's so fun to be near the big city, I'm so blessed to have some green space close by. I love being outdoors and the Lord knew I'd need a place to retreat from the hustle and bustle of life. Literally three miles from my apartment are Edwin and Percy Warner Parks. Nashville is VERY hilly - almost like mini mountains, so the parks are designed around these "mini mountains" complete with roads for running/walking and plenty of great hiking trails. There's a creek that runs through the park, fields for large gatherings, shelters with picnic tables, and one of the parks has an equestrian area. When I'm there, I feel like I'm back in North Carolina roaming through the woods in my Chacos. The parks are a place that bring peace, a slice of home, and an opportunity for uninterrupted time with the Lord. Through all the insane, complex transitions of the last month, these parks have helped me maintain some sanity. I can't wait to experience autumn. Below are some pictures I found online - yes, it really is that beautiful.

You Need to Listen to this..

2009-09-16T00:03:00.009-04:00

Music is such a joy in my life. I love playing it, listening to it, you name it. The summers always bring new music discoveries. Since July, I have greatly increased my music collection (thank you iTunes gift cards and major coupons).Now that I'm in a new place, these songs bring comfort and delight. Believing that everyone should be exposed to some of this music, I'm going to give you some recommendations.

Phil Wickham: He's been around for a few years, but he's incredible. His latest album, Cannons, is phenomenal. His lyrics are solid and make you worship the Lord in song. His acoustic melodies are so different from all that you hear on the Christian radio stations. He has pure talent. My current favorite song is "The Light will Come." I think he has a new album coming out soon.

Mat Kearney: I've listened to his music since my sophomore year of college, but latest album is different yet wonderful. He blends piano with acoustic guitar so smoothly with a slight bluesy edge. "City of Black and White" is my fave song so far.

Jimmy Needham: Where did this guy come from? Wow.. his acoustic melodies have a jazzy flow, smooth vocals, and lyrics that solidify how talented he is. I can seriously listen to the entire CD non-stop, and I can't say that about many artists. I can't really pick a favorite song: "Unending," "Forgiven and Loved," "Come Around, " etc..

Fellowship Nashville

2009-09-13T00:15:00.004-04:00

"Church Shopping" as they call it can be quite a process. Nashville has tons of churches. To narrow my list, I've attended churches that have been recommended. Every one I've been to have been great churches with solid ministries. However, one hit home for me: Fellowship Bible Church. It reminds me so much of Crosspoint theologically, atmospherically, etc. They just finished a great series called "Ecclesia", taking about the origins and purpose of the church, including our role as the body of Christ. The pastor this week preached from 1 Peter 2 - how Christ is the cornerstone. It was really solid.

www.fellowshipnashville.org

What topped off my ability to choose was their young adult/college ministry, Inversion. I went alone last week, but I was immediately greeted and introduced to people. It wasn't awkward and the message was solid. They have some great outreach ministries in Nashville that I'm hoping to get plugged into.(www.inversionfellowship.org)

Thank you Crosspoint for stressing to us how important it is to find a good, growing, Gospel-centered church wherever we go. I believe you've prepared me well for this part of my journey outside college. However, I still miss Crosspoint greatly. God is doing great things in Clemson through your ministry.

Combo Red Photo

2009-06-13T16:12:00.001-04:00

Hey everyone, I don't have time to update, but I wanted to post a picture of my team on here. Love them! YEAH COMBO RED!

14 Track Times in a Row?

2009-06-06T20:43:00.003-04:00

NOPE! We were told Thursday night that we had to go through all of the camp track times on Saturday. No one was exceptionally happy about that. Well, right before we were supposed to go to our first track, we were told "Meet me out here at 1:30 because we're going to Lexington!" We were so excited we screamed like little kids. The day trip was so fun and such a blessing. We've been working our tailgates off and the chance to relax and hang out was much needed. Lexington is a beautiful city with all the horse farms. We spent about an hour at the mall, went out to eat, took picture at a beautiful park, and then went to a Lexington Legends baseball game. Guess who they were playing. The Greenville Drive. Go figure! Greenville lost, but the game was still a blast. The kiddos come in LESS than 48 hours. WOOT!!

Staff Week Continues..

2009-06-04T22:35:00.001-04:00

Wow, the last few days has been insane! There's so much to do and prepare for before the kiddos arrive. We work nonstop morning to night. We've mocked all our sport times: gymnastics, cheerleading, tennis, soccer, flag football, basketball, volleyball, team handball, volleyball, swimming, and baseball/softball. Tomorrow we will mock ALL our track times, which are too many to name. There's so much to be done before the kiddos arrive on Monday. We have to do a ton of audi time: setting up the auditorium's set and sound and running through all the "I Can't Wait" morning celebrations and Parties. There's a huge list of other stuff in our office to cross off. However, it will get done.

Working a sport camp has showed me just how sticking competitive AND clumsy I am. My team puts up big competition and it's so fun. However, I fall all the time and bust my tailgate. I'm covered with bruises from head to toe (seriously!). Maybe I should upgrade my insurance.

Y'all I'm so ready for the church groups to arrive. I saw a little kid today at dinner and I really wanted to go give him a big hug. I'm excited for the conversations to come, the questions to be asked, the funny moments to take place, and to see God move. The responsibility of teaching bible study to roughly 150+ kids this summer is enormous. Please pray for the staff to communicate the Gospel effectively to these kids. Rather, pray that the staff are willing and teachable vessles for the Lord to use to communicate the Gospel. Pray that the staff is deeply impacted by the Gospel. We may be Believers, but that doesn't omit us from needing to hear it - we NEED it in ever facet of our lives.

I was reading through Romans 15:5-6 this morning and praying through those verses. It talks about God giving us a spirit of unity. Unity is crucial for a team to bond well and serve well. Unity is crucial to the body of Christ! My staff is solid, but please pray for us. It's hard when you work morning till night and you have little downtime or time to just sit and talk life. I love the men and women I serve with - they desire to love these kids we have coming to our camp. They are Gospel-minded, and I desire to build relationships with them that are rooted in Christ, not camp.

"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ."

Wow.. Combo Red

2009-05-31T22:31:00.003-04:00

I'm at training week! The Lord has answered many blessings so far and sanctification is definitely happening. My team is full of wonderful godly men and women, they're fun, and they're ready to love on kids through the Gospel. I'm so thankful for them and for the growth that's already happening. I'm in a family group with four other girl staffers and my team is studying the book of Nehemiah (spell?) this summer.

I'm learning a ton. Working Centri-Kid on CK-3 last summer was incredible and I was challenged greatly. I didn't realize how intense this summer will be until after the first few days of training week with 6 other teams, learning the expectations of my new program staff, and learning this whole other camp called Crosspoint/Centri-Kid Combo. Yeah.. about that..

I'm on a Combo team, which means that at the same location and the same time, we'll have Crosspoint Sports Camp and Centri-Kid going on at the same time. We overlap for our morning celebration, I Can't Wait, and for worship and parties. However, during the day it's very different.
In fact, our first three weeks of camp will ONLY be Crosspoint, which means I get to teach sports times (Softball and Soccer). Y'all, Crosspoint is HARD CORE. Seriously. I will get LESS sleep than last summer, will work HARDER than I did last summer, will plan more DETAILS, etc. etc. etc.I'll get up b/w 5:30 and 6:00am every morning and probably won't sleep until midnight or later. The bar has seriously been raised 100 feet for me in every level: spiritually, physically, team-wise, camper-wise, emotionally, mentally. My program staff is great. My director, Wes, is definitely a spiritual leader. I'm so blessed by this team. I also have to participate in the "sport time tuck." I have to tuck my shirt in every day and it's a big deal on Crosspoint teams. So funny..

I'm nervous.. I know the standard has been set high. I don't want to be a hindrance to the Gospel and I desire to love on my team through service, vulnerability, and prayer. I know the Lord's hand is in this summer. I'm so thankful for these changes and so thankful that I get to be apart of a team that's going to sacrifice and give so that the Gospel may be presented clearly to these kids. I'm also so thankful about how camp has raised the bar astronomically to reach churches. Our bible study is incredible and our desire to really pour into churches at church-group time is huge. There's more to it than that.. but so much to write.

Pray for continued team UNITY.
Pray for our energy. You get exhausted fast.
Pray for our times with the Lord to be intentional and sweet.
Pray for excitement and dedication to our track time/sport time plans and teaching.
So much!!

I can't really use my phone at all during the day so my chats will be limited to the weekends and LATE nights. Email and blog: that's the best way to reach me.

Combo Red - pretty much amazing.

Leavin' on a Jet Plane

2009-05-27T22:43:00.003-04:00

In 7 hours I'll be leaving for the airport! WOOT!! Oh goodness.. I'm so excited to meet my team. I cannot even begin to explain my excitement, my nervousness, my passion for loving on some kiddos this summer. This summer will be exhausting, exhilarating, and life-changing. I'm praying hard the Lord uses this summer to grow me, sanctify me, and use me to change the lives of kids with the Gospel!

Pray for several things:

Safe travel for all the staff
UNITY among my team, that we will have teachable hearts, and that we will serve and work together as a family.
Our health b/c many staff get sick.
Finally, pray that the Gospel would remain the center of what we're doing this summer. My team alone will serve over 3,000 kids and adult sponsors from countless churches. Many of these kids aren't Believers and even some of the adults will accept Christ during camp.

The theme is "Jesus 360" and John 1:14 is our theme verse:

"The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."

No Gimp. No Boot. No Sally

2009-05-26T20:19:00.005-04:00

Last summer during Maymester, I broke my foot at church one Sunday night. For the next 7ish weeks, I ran (literally) around in a boot. To make it comical, my foot/boot was dubbed "Sally." My coordinator told me not to come to camp "gimp" again this summer. I'm excited to say (knock on wood b/c I have one more day left at home) that I will not be "gimp" this summer. Praise the Lord!

I'm currently working on some lesson plans for one of my Tracks (harder than I thought) and there is lots of packing/organizing/cleaning to do. Packing a whole summer into one trunk is hard. Dumb 50lb / 1 bag limits..

Week at Crestridge

2009-05-25T13:18:00.004-04:00

I had a great week at up at Crestridge! It was such a blessing to spend some time with old friends and help prepare the camp for it's new summer. I'm excited for the new programming aspects they've added in the last couple of years and for the new cabins and other facilities to be used.
I don't think I've worked that hard in ages - we stained, moved furniture, cleaned cabins, ran errands, threw junk away, etc. etc. all week long. On Friday, the annual alumni event, "Maintain the Memories" brough 70 people up to camp to do some building, cleaning, and landscaping. By the end of Saturday, they had almost completed their huge list and camp was looking pretty dawg-on' good.
Being in the mountains for a week, doing manual labor, running the big loop to see the sun rise in the valley, and building fires was so theraputic after a busy school year! The Lord has done so much this year, and now I'm anxiously awaiting Thursday for my arrival to KY for Centri-Kid staff training. I wish I was there now. I'm so excited to love on some kiddos this summer. I'm looking forward to the conversations, teaching Bible Study, and learning new things from the staff. I expect God will do some major things this summer. Kids will go home new in Christ, churches will be encouraged in their childrens' ministry, and staff will leave impacted by what happened over the last 2 months.

Here are some pictures from the week:

The glorious fire that Kristin, Courtney, and I built.
I'm sad the photo is blurry!
Me and Anna Clare

Just for April

2009-05-21T21:14:00.006-04:00

April, here are the pictures of Cherokee Hill that you requested. They were all taken last Winter. Cherokee 1 is now Cherokee 25, just so you know:

It takes a special woman to work this village..
I love them, but I'll keep with the Chickasaw age!

In color..

With a slight blue hue..

Stained Out

2009-05-21T20:59:00.003-04:00

I'm tired.. VERY tired.. and sore. Since Tuesday, several of us have been staining a huge pavilion deck and an archery range deck. I'm not a neat painter, so I'm covered in stain and it won't come off. Any ideas for getting it off... please tell me!!

Both decks look great, however, and I'm excited that they will be used every day this summer. Tomorrow we embark on other forms of manual labor, such as raking rocks on Cheyenne/Choctaw Hill, getting things from boys camp, cleaning out the camp kitchen, etc. It will be busy but a great change of pace!

I found out some of my former campers might be up here this weekend. The alumni are having their anual "Maintain the Memories" work weekend. I'm excited to see some of those kiddos.. or should I say teenagers? There are so many great memories from those girls and I'm excited to find out what the Lord has been doing in their lives the past two years.

I'm planning on heading home on Sunday or Monday morning. I have much left to do for Centri-Kid, which is LESS THAN A WEEK AWAY! WOOT!

1st Full Day in the Mnts.

2009-05-18T21:08:00.003-04:00

I LOVE the mountains and I have a big heart for the camp I worked at for four summers. I'm up here for a week doing volunteer work. AKA - manual labor. Other than almost breaking my hand today on a 1950's metal canoe (why do they still have this?), it's been a blast. Several former and current staff are up here, and it's good to be working with staff who also are not going to work at Crestridge this summer. I'm excited about the changes the directors have made for the camp - it's really growing and improving, which is a blessing!

So, I'm down to about 10 days until Centri-Kid. Y'all, I'm so ready to be there. The more I study my bible study plans, etc. the more I'm ready to serve this summer! The theme is "Jesus 360," and it's looking at who Jesus is as fully man, fully God, and how he bridges the gap for our Salvation. God is going to do some huge things. My team seems like they will be amazing, and I'm excited to learn and serve with them. Please pray for my team and for our campers.

First Week as a Grad

2009-05-15T22:12:00.003-04:00

I just got back yesterday from four days down at Pawley's Island. I LOVE the beach and my family went to Pawley's every summer growing up. My grandparents have a house down there. I really enjoyed spending some quality time with Peg, relaxing, and even seeing some family who live down there.
Fuge internship update: 70 people applied and I wasn't chosen to further proceed with the intetview process. Though I was disappointed, the Lord has provided peace and I'm currently looking into some other options, including seminary. I'm excited about the future! I've been reading "Just Do Something" (don't remember the author) and it's helping put life and decisions into perspective. I wish I would have read it 6 months ago! So, I'm leaving for camp in less than two weeks and when I come back in August, I'm not going to wait around. I've got options and I'm going to pursue them head-on.

Camp is coming fast! I have so much to do in preparation - track time lesson plans to make and bible study material to learn. I'm really looking forward to what the next two months will hold. God is going to do some big things and I'm looking forward to serving with an amazing team. I'm praying God will use Centri-Kid to encourage churchs' kids ministries to grow and pour deeper into their kids. I'm excited to be on this end of the deal. :-)

Graduated

2009-05-09T09:54:00.003-04:00

Graduation was yesterday. It was LONG but good! I shook President Barker's hand and turned my ring. College is over. The past four years have been absolutely incredible, and the party last night was such sweet closure with my best friends. I'm so thankful for their friendship - we've been through so much together since we were freshmen. They are amazing women, and I'm going to miss them so much.
I'm nervous about the next four years, but I'm also looking forward to what the Lord has in store. The future is unpredictable, but I'm expecting some adventures.

I'm moving from Clemson tomorrow after church. Clemson has been home. This summer, home will be whatever dorm I lay my head in every night. Maybe in August the great city of Nashville, TN will become home? I pray so.

Packing..

2009-05-04T19:23:00.004-04:00

It's weird to be packing up my room. I've loved living in the duplex this year. It's been such a blessing and I've had a great roommate. This is my last home at Clemson.. at least for now, I suppose. Who knows.. I could be back someday. One of my goals while I'm at home is to consolidate all the random stuff I've accumulated during college. We'll see how that works out..

I thought I'd just be packing and save the cleaning for this weekend, but my brother from Boston (who I was supposed to be going home to see tomorrow) has decided to drive over here with his girlfriend for me to meet. I don't want them to see my apartment in shambles. Matthew will be taking a large amount of my stuff home for me. I'm glad I don't have to drive to Greenville tomorrow!

Change of Plans

2009-05-03T21:09:00.007-04:00

This semester, though it's been such a sweet season, has been a very hard season. I've definitely seen my people pleasing tendencies come out, and they came out when I chose to do Generation LINK. For other reasons as well, I've realized that G-LINK is not where I'm called to be next year. It's really a long story, but here's out it ended up:

Last Wednesday I went to a support meeting and the couple really wanted to support me financially!! However, halfway through the meeting I realized that I couldn't do this anymore. It was not where God was leading me and I had no desire for it. It was like a huge burden being lifted off my shoulders. It's strange but true. I haven't been myself in months.

Another factor: LifeWay's Fuge camps have an internship available (Fuge Program Specialist Intern), which is right up my alley. I'm fascinated by the program side of camp and spent this semester talking about it in a class. I've applied - we'll see what happens. My passion is in the camp ministry. Please pray for this internship opportunity!! However, may the Lord's will be done and may the glory be all His.

As part of the intern process, I decided to find out if I could work camp this summer, which I miss so much! That's where my heart is. So I contacted my coordinators from last summer to see if there were any openings. They did staff placement 2 months ago so I figured they would say no. Interestingly enough, they needed a sound tech on one of their teams. I'll be doing that and teaching bible study and skills. Funny how things work out. I'll post more about my team later.

God's hand is in this situation. Though I wish I would have figured this out months ago, I can't deny that the Lord is using this for his glory.

Thanks..

2009-04-30T22:52:00.007-04:00

Tonight I had the opportunity to babysit the Finley kids. They are amazing! So fun, precious, and .. well, they're great kids who come from great, godly parents. Since I couldn't find a friend to help, I was in charge of dinner, play time, baths, and teeth brushing. It was busy, but so worth it. We had a blast! :-) I'm going to miss them and their monkey hugs so much. I'm going miss all the little kids at Crosspoint. God has really worked in my heart the past two years, and he's used these kiddos to do that.

I'm so thankful that my time in Clemson has been surrounded by wonderful families at Crosspoint. The pastors and their wives have probably had the greatest influence on my view of biblical marriage and family. I pray I can be at least half the parents they are some day. Thank you for loving on college students like me and allowing me to love on your kids! I'm so blessed.

Stick a Fork in Me. I'm Done!

2009-04-30T06:54:00.003-04:00

It's over! Yesterday at 4:25 I completed my last exam ever at Clemson University. It's weird.. I no longer have to set foot in the Brooks Center. My last exam was listening to frequency boosts and cuts in pink noise and music from Golden Ears. I left ear fatigued and relieved. Now I can sell that ridiculously expensive CD set for about $100 easily.

Looking back on the past four years, I definitely can see God's provision and grace in my academics (just to name one area!). He's provided when my courses were ridiculously hard, when I needed a random Maymester to graduate on time (or to have a summer), and when I thought I'd get stuck in Psychology for the duration of my college career.

Now the fat lady is about to sing. I'm so excited for all my friends and so incredibly thankful that we've gotten to share everything from freshman year to senior year together! In about a week we'll all be shaking President Barker's hand.

Seminary!

2009-04-20T22:45:00.002-04:00

I got my acceptance letter into Southeastern yesterday! WOOT! It's great to have that part of the process behind me. I've been accepted into graduate school. Now all I have to do is raise the support so I can pay for it.
Speaking of support, I sent out a batch of letters today. Pray for my potential supporters' hearts to be softened and burdened for the Gospel to be proclaimed at Clemson. Most of these people I don't really know.
At work today (Performing Arts main office), I had a very interesting conversation with the marketing director, Glen. I'm not really sure if he's a believer, and it was a bit intimidating at first. But he asked what I was doing after graduation, so I told him. His eyes popped when he found out what I have to raise. He's definitely skeptical, but I would be too. Then he said, "Raising that kind of money looks good on a resume. Have you thought about going into fundraising?" I hope this was encouraging to him. I hope maybe some doors have been opened.
Honestly, it's hard to let your faith in Christ show in the Performing Arts dept. I'm a minority and a few christians have really made us look BAD around there. Pray for the few Believers there (Me, Christina, etc.) to finish strong and firm in our faith among our non-christian friends. Pray that they would see something different and desirable in us. Time is running short, but pray for conversations to arrise.

Last Week ..

2009-04-19T21:52:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow begins the last week of classes of college. Wow.. how crazy.

Live up every moment

Donald Duck

2009-04-16T23:31:00.003-04:00

My roommate, Kate, and I watched old Donald Duck cartoons for about an hour tonight. Tons of those old 1940s cartoons are on YouTube. It's wonderful! I used to watch those old Donald, Mickey, Goofy, and Pluto cartoons all the time when I was little. This was back when Disney was great and Donald was my favorite.

I've decided that I am going to purchase many of these cartoons (you can get them on Amazon) so that my kids will be immersed in the great Disney classics.

Here's one of my favorites..

The Show's Over

2009-04-15T20:52:00.005-04:00

Last night's concert was so fun! The CU Jazz Ensemble played great and made my job easy and enjoyable. The only problem was the combo bass player's amp was too loud. Oh well... that one song sounded fine!

I was reminded last night of how the Lord brought me to this place. Fall of my sophomore year I was trying to figure out what to major in, what I liked, etc. Psychology just wasn't fitting the bill. What a journey it turned out to be. I decided to audition for the Performing Arts program and study audio engineering. I love music, I'm not a performer, and I love music's behind-the-scenes world. I've gotten to study something really interesting - something that most people never learn.
Looking back, I've often wondered how I chose that major. I could have easily done PRTM (Parks & Recreation, etc.), but I see how the Lord has taught me so much about trusting in his timing and provisions. The past 2 1/2 years in my major have been a great learning experience and I've be able to use audio to serve the Lord.

Now all that's left is a resume/cover letter for a class and then two exams. That's it.

As the Madeline books say, "That's all there is. There isn't any more."

CU Jazz Ensemble!

2009-04-12T21:47:00.003-04:00

My college career sort of comes to a close this Tuesday (April 14th). I do have minor assignments and two exams afterwards, but Tuesday is the final assignment of my senior audio project.

I had to design the stage layout, choose microphones, and now I get to run the second and final show for the CU Jazz Ensemble.

You are welcome to come!

The Ensemble is really talented and so fun to listen to! If I do my job correctly, you'll forget I am there and love the music. Seriously! :-D

Just think Big Band Jazz.. it's amazing.

The concert is at the Brooks Center at 8pm. It's FREE!

Graduation Guests

2009-04-11T22:56:00.004-04:00

I recently found out that all my siblings are coming down for my graduation. For those of you that don't know, I have three brothers and one sister. I'm the fourth child. Though we really aren't a close bunch, I appreciate and value the very brief moments we have all together at once. This usually only happens once a year and it's never a dull moment. We won't all be together again until Christmas.

Latest family photo I have- probably one of the last family photos taken.
Taken in 2004

Birthdays and Sushi

2009-04-10T09:45:00.002-04:00

Last night I went with a bunch of fun, awesome women to celebrate Amy's birthday. I wish I had pictures.. waiting for those to be posted on Facebook. We had a blast eating sushi, walking around the West End of Downtown Greenville, and relaxing at Coffee Underground. By the time we got in the car to go home, I was worn out! So much fun... we should do that again. :-)

Happy Birthday, Amy!!

Girl Time!

2009-04-09T10:13:00.003-04:00

This past Tuesday Krystal, Jenna, Ashley, Molly and I had some girl time with a few precious girls in our church. It was so much fun! We dyed Easter eggs, ran around, and played. It was the highlight of my week. As Krystal said, thank you for sharing your amazing daughters with us! Hopefully we can have another girlie day soon.

Here are a few pictures, but go to Krystal's blog to see all of them!

Silly girls!Reese decided to tackle me.
Bryn decided to sit on my face.

Our fun group photo!
Krystal has the silly one on her blog!

Work Weekend Photos

2009-04-05T22:28:00.009-04:00

As I said in the post before, I had a wonderful weekend in the mountains at the Crestridge work weekend. Here are some photos. These women have a special place in my heart. So many wonderful memories...

The whole group

New Bear Trap - offices

Chacos are an obsession at camp. I have four pairs.
I'm the dark green straps on the right.

How many people can we get in a truck bed? A lot.

Breaking down boxes at the top of Cheyenne Hill.
The green-roofed buildling is one of five brand new cabins.

Lunch pose - The girl in the black shirt was my camper in 2006
The girl on the far right was my Co-counselor in 2007

Twin sandwich! They both lived on either side of my cabin in 2007

Love them :-)

Work Weekend

2009-04-04T21:34:00.003-04:00

I just got back today from a work weekend at Camp Crestridge. The camp just finished building 5 new cabins and an office building near the dining hall. A bunch of former/current staffers and I helped put 25 new bunk beds together and did some beautification. It was great to see old friends and be in the mountains. However, I'm so thankful for a peace that I'm not supposed to be there this summer. Yes, I love the program and the people, but I'm completely okay I'm not going to be there. :-)

I'll post some pictures soon!

English 304?

2009-03-31T09:44:00.003-04:00

My schedule says I'm in English 304: Business Writing. However, class has been cancelled at least 6-7 times this semester, including this morning. I walked up 4 flights of stairs in Daniel Hall to a dark room with a note that said my professor was out sick. An email at 8am would have been convenient.
Now, I'm not bragging about this at all. In fact, I'm not sure that I've actually learned anything this semester. Waste of my money?? I can't help but laugh at the situation. I guess I'm getting three hours for this class. I think I am..
At least that gives me more time to focus on my senior project, right?

On that note, the culmination of my senior audio project is Tuesday, April 14th at 8pm. It's the CU Jazz Ensemble concert at the Brooks Center. The show is FREE and the band is really good! Come!

One reason why I love kids..

2009-03-28T23:09:00.004-04:00

One of my closest friends from Centri-Kid, Mary, sent me a link to this youtube video that nearly had me on the floor laughing. "No Body's Perfect" by Miley Sirus (spelling?) was played EVERY single day this past summer at our morning celebrations in order to get the kids pumped. I'm no Miley fan at all, but this video is hilarious. This little girl (I have no clue who she is) busted out her own music video to the song.

I can't embed it into my post, so please go to youtube and watch it!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEtP9zQAOI4

Junior Year..

2009-03-25T22:36:00.008-04:00

I have fewer photos of this year on my computer and I'm a bit too lazy at the moment to search facebook.

Love these lyrics..

2009-03-25T08:36:00.002-04:00

Before the Throne
Shane & Shane version

"Before the throne of God above
I have a strong and perfect plea
A great high Priest who's name is Love
Who ever lives and pleads for me

My name is graven on His hand
My name is written on His heart
I know that while in heaven He stands
No tongue can bid me thence depart

When satan tempts me to despair
and tells me of the guilt within
upward I look and see Him there
Who made an end of all my sin

Because a sinless Savior died
my sinful soul is counted free
For God the just is satisfied
to look on Him and pardon me

Hallelujah
Praise the One Risen Son of God.

Behold Him there, the risen Lamb
My perfect spotless righteousness
The great unchangeable I AM
The King of Glory and of grace

One in Himself, I cannot die
My soul is purchased by His blood
My life is hid with Christ on high
With Christ my Savior and my God"

Chaco Tan

2009-03-23T18:53:00.002-04:00

With the advent of the Spring comes the chance to tan. I rarely tan, but last summer since I was out in the Mississippi sun every day for hours on end I got fairly dark for a pale, white girl. However, I was required to wear tennis shoes every day. Not this summer. The Chaco tan of summers 2006 and 2007 is coming back. It's a pretty sweet tan of zig zags across the feet. It's really probably the closest I'll get to last summer's UV rays.

Back in Town

2009-03-20T21:58:00.004-04:00

I just came back to Clemson today and gearing up to finish my last semester of college. Gosh time has flown by so quickly. I'm not going to rush this last month and a half. I want to savor it has much as possible. I'm not in a hurry to move to the next phase of life. Be all here now. It's not over yet.

MuteMath - Piano Ratiug

2009-03-18T22:21:00.004-04:00

Every now and then I like music that's "different" or "random." MuteMath is a band that definitely provides that. They have a new CD coming out soon and they put a video clip of a song instrumental they've written on their website. It's cool to listen to it and see how they recorded it (I'm an audio major..) because they didn't use a pristine, expensive piano. Instead, to get the desired sound, they brought in some really old piano. Interesante..

It's weird, but I really like it. Don't judge if you don't. :-P

Gideon

2009-03-16T23:34:00.004-04:00

Raising support is hard. I'm not beating around the bush. Right now, I feel about as useless and weak as one can be. It's easy to dwell on that and doubt the power and promises of God. I'm reminded of 2 Corinthians 6:9 "But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
Then I was reminded of the story of Gideon. I may butcher the story (forgive me) but in Judges 6 an angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon and told him to go and save Israel from the Midians. Well, he is doubtful of the Lord's provision and responds to the angel in vs 13, "Please, sir, if the Lord is with us, why then has all this happened to us?..." But in verse 16 he is reassured that the Lord will be with him.

I feel like Gideon a lot, and I have a feeling I'm about to be humbled a great deal.

In chapter 7, Gideon has his army and is about to go up against the camp of Midian, but God says in verses 2-3 "You have too many men for me to deliver Midian into their hands. In order that Israel may not boast against me that her own strength has saved her, announce now to the people, 'Anyone who trembles with fear may turn back and leave Mount Gilead.' " So twenty-two thousand men left, while ten thousand remained.
God kept dwindling down Gideons army until he had only 300 men. He started with 22,000! Vs 7:" The LORD said to Gideon, 'With the three hundred men that lapped I will save you and give the Midianites into your hands..."

In verses 15-21 his small army surrounds the Midian camp blowing trumpets and smashing jars, basically creating a ruckus. Well, they scared the Midians into fleeing and they turn to each other with their swords (vs. 22). In verses 24-25, Gideon sent messengers to the hill country of Ephriam to capture the Midians and they were able to sieze the leaders.

So that was a mouthful. But God took Gideon's huge army down to just a few by comparison to prove that it was GOD that won the battle. It was God that provided and gave them the strength and intelligence to defeat the Midians. God could have used the big army, but why use 22,000 men when you could just use 300?

I am raising support and I'm often discouraged because my support base is so small. Maybe that's all it will take. My small support base is my army of 300.. no need for 22,000. The Lord is sovereign and I realize it won't be me who raises the moola. It will be him.

Sophomore Year Photos

2009-03-16T00:14:00.006-04:00

I'd say sophomore year is the biggest blur. It went by so fast. However, there are still many fun memories.

Berry Chai Tea

2009-03-14T23:26:00.002-04:00

In my 22 years of life, I've never liked tea. I know, I must not be a real southerner. I promise I am.. I grew up in the boonies of SC. Unfortunately, the taste just never worked for me. This past four years, I've been open-minded about trying a varieties of tea, especially since my best friends are obsessed with it (you know you are :- P).
Well, I think I finally found a tea I actually like! I recently tried the Berry Chai Tea at Starbucks. I've never had regular chai tea, so I'm not sure if it's the chai part I like or if it's the berry part that buries the tea taste. But the berry chai is quite delicious. I highly recommend! Also, get it hot, not cold.

College - Freshman Year

2009-03-13T16:18:00.008-04:00

This semester I've been reflecting a lot on the past four years here at Clemson. So much has happened and God has done some amazing things. I pray I'm a different person now than who I was when I came to college... that the Lord has done a great work in my heart. Still so much to learn, so far to grow, but that's part of what makes life an adventure. Here are some fun pictures from freshman year. I'll post sophomore and junior year pictures later...

Under Grace

2009-03-12T10:06:00.002-04:00

This morning I was reading A Gospel Primer by Milton Vincent. He gives thirty-one reasons why we need the Gospel in every facet of our daily lives. Today's topic was Freedom from Sin's Power. He points out that "as long as I am stricken with the guilt of my sins, I will be captive to them, and will often find myself recommitting the very sins about which I feel most guilty."

Then he referenced to a passage of scripture that really spoke to my heart:

"For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace."
-Romans 6:14.

Quiet Time in the Spring

2009-03-09T23:00:00.003-04:00

I love the Botanical Gardens. I love being around nature. It's so much fun to explore the trails, and it's a great place to go chill. During the Fall and Spring, it's my favorite place to go for some time with the Lord. Because the weather has been wonderful, I went there recently for my quiet time. I find my apartment to have so many distractions, but at the Bo-Gardens I find I can turn much of those distractions off and focus. The amphitheater is a wonderful place to stretch out on a blanket, but another great place is off to the right (direction of the lake). There's a hill/meadow with a tree at the very top. Underneath the tree are two benches. So peaceful. I highly recommend. Here's a picture!

Running weather..

2009-03-09T11:22:00.004-04:00

This past weekend has be wonderful for running. I love that I can go running in the morning and not freeze. I'm not a big fan of running in extremely cold weather, but I try to keep it up. All the extra gear you have to wear, dry skin on my hands, etc. doesn't exactly make for the best runs.

However, running when the temperature is in the 60's is fabulous! I just want to lace up my Brooks Dyads and run more and longer. I'm officially inspired to take on the dikes along the lake again. It's a good 4.5 miles. On a clear day, you can see the mountains - beautiful!

On top of the inspiration is Runners World magazine. I'm not a big reader, but I wish I was and I try to be. My sister took all those genes - she reads an obscene amount of books. Runners World is the only magazine I can read.. it's actually helpful. It's full of great stories, tips, and info on new running gear. If you need a push to get out on the road, borrow one of my mags.

I want to build a fire..

2009-03-05T22:45:00.004-05:00

Working at Crestridge turned me into a pyro. I've had a hankering to build a fire for weeks. When I go running, I walk through the woods behind my apt to hop the fence. There's a lot of bramble brier and wood back there. I have a big box of strike-anywhere matches in my closet.

Does anyone have a fire pit in their backyard? Or a place for one? I'll bring the s'mores!

The last fire I built.. :-)

Ideas for Kids Ministry ..

2009-03-03T20:46:00.008-05:00

My brain has been on brainstorm mode lately about next year. I've been asking myself, "What is a kids ministry at a church? How does that differ from my summers? A kids ministry isn't just about the kids - it's about the family. So how do you minister to the whole family? How does discipleship look from my end?"

After serving five summers at camps, I still feel like I have worlds to learn about the mind of a child. However, if there is one thing I have learned it's that kids are SMARTER than you think. At Crestridge the youngest village (6,7, 8-yr-olds) had a saying: "Never underestimate a Chippewa." Seriously - they ask hard questions. You can teach them more than you think - but there is a line of course.

I've been keeping a Word document of all my ideas. I think one of the biggest challenges will be finding good curriculum for Kids Connection next year. Working for Centri-Kid last summer, I saw what a great kids bible study looked like. I got to teach it. In our nine hours of bible study training they stressed that kids can't just sit and listen to you talk for an hour. A good study has to be interactive - teaching the material through activities of various types to reach the various learning styles of the kids. Guess what: it really worked. I'm challenged to locate some curriculum very similar to that while making sure the content is solid.

I'm convicted that I assume far too much that these kids are believers. I have no clue which of these kids have actually accepted Christ, and I really wonder how much they know about the Gospel. For those that are believers, do they know how to have quiet times, how to recite their testimony, etc? How much do these kids know about missions? How can the church help the parents disciple their children?

I've got tons of questions to answer and researching to do. If you can give me any ideas, recommend some good books on kids, or shoot me towards a church with a great kids ministry to observe, please comment!

Congrats CK3!

2009-02-28T21:13:00.005-05:00

My friends returning to Centri-Kid find out tomorrow what team they will serving on this summer! Congrats, CK3! I'm so excited for you and will be praying for you! I hope some of you will be at Taccoa Falls so I can see you when I come with my church in July.

Jackson and Alex

2009-02-26T22:14:00.004-05:00

My sister recently posted a new picture of her two boys on her blog. They are six and five. LOVE these kiddos! I wish they didn't live 2 + hours away.

Naps = Wonderful

2009-02-26T17:27:00.002-05:00

Up until I was about 17, I hated naps. I thought they were a waste of my time when I could be playing, hanging out with friends, etc. Then I began working at camp. At first rest hour was my least favorite part of the day. By the end of that first summer, it was a much needed time of day! Fast forward: My sophomore year of college I had my own room (as an RA), and I took full advantage of these afternoons alone to take naps. I had small couch and you could probably guess about every afternoon around 3 or 4 that I was asleep on it. Now as a senior I still find naps to be a key part of my days, especially on Sunday afternoons. Last Sunday I collapsed for a 3 hour nap from the busy weekend - It's Thursday and I still haven't caught up on my sleep.

I love naps, as you can tell. But sometimes I feel like I'm wasting time. Do you nap-takers feel that way? Maybe it's not the nap so much as the amount of time taking the nap? Perhaps so. It's easy to sleep 2 hours of the afternoon away. Isn't that time I should be reading for school, doing homework, cleaning my apt, etc? Yeah.. it is. Oops!

There's this thing called a "power nap," which lasts about 30-40 minutes. Short, but apparently they work. See, most Americans are sleep deprived, and these short naps can boost our alertness, etc. Even NASA makes sure the Astronauts nap! In fact, it's been shown to increase performance by 34% and alertness by 100%.
http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/features/power-of-napping-feature
http://www.healthcentral.com/sleep-disorders/napping-192939-5.html

I think it's safe to say that naps are GOOD and important, but in moderation. No more two hour naps, guys. You need to keep it to 30 minutes. I'll attempt this..

The last interesting quote said that, "A nap can be a pleasant luxury, a mini-vacation. It can provide an easy way to get some relaxation and rejuvenation."

I like that. Every nap you take, think of it as a mini-vacation. A nap-cation. An escape to your dream world.

Preach the Gospel to Yourself

2009-02-23T08:05:00.006-05:00

Since becoming at Christian, I've heard people say many times over, "preach the Gospel to yourself daily." As bad as this may sound, I never fully understood what they meant by that. I've known the Gospel since before I was 13. To state it in a nutshell, we are sinful and God cannot be with sin (Rom 3:23). However, "God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8). God sent His son, Christ, to pay the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. His blood was sufficient to wash away all sin. We are called to repent and ask Christ to become lord of our lives. We get to enter into a personal relationship with the Father. So cool!
However, I'm convicted I don't preach that to myself daily. I'm afraid that I don't understand the fullness of God's grace towards us. When I sin, it's so difficult to remember His grace -
I instead end up condemning myself for my sin and feeling defeated.
I've been reading Jerry Bridge's The Gospel for Real Life and he makes a very convicting statement:
"Why do so many believers, including those deeply serious bout their Christian commitment, live lives of quiet desperation? One answer is that we have a truncated view of the Gospel, tending to see it only as a door we walk through to become a Christian. In this view the Gospel is only for unbelievers... we fail to see the Gospel as the solution to our greatest problem - our guilt, condemnation, and alienation from God. Beyond that, we fail to see it as the basis for our day-to-day acceptance with Him. As a result, many believers live in spiritual poverty."

Wow. Many of us, including myself, live in spiritual poverty because we fail to recognize the fullness of the Gospel. Well, last night I began reading Milton Vincent's A Gospel Primer for Christians. Also a very challenging book! I haven't read very far into it yet, but I'm already thinking, "Whoa!" Here's the first big thing that jumped out:

"I have also found that when I am absorbed in the Gospel, everything else I am supposed to be toward God and others seems to flow out of me more naturally and passionately."

I've realized that my sin entangles to much of my life and I must face it every day. Instead of standing with the strength of the Gospel, I attempt to stand on my own two feet - I inevitably fail. Milton points out, "There is simply no other way to compete with the forebodings of my conscience, the condemning of my heart, and the lies of the world and the devil than to overwhelm such things with daily rehearings of the Gospel."
If we daily cling to the cross, to the Gospel, sin would be overwhelmed, the lies would become foolish to us, etc.
Lastly, I love this quote from Milton: "And how great is the salvation it could accomplish in my life, if I would only embrace it by faith and give it a central place in my thoughts each day."

I've only just begun to learn to grasp these truths of the Gospel. I confess I haven't been clinging to the cross daily, but instead wallowing in my condemnation towards my sin, feeling defeated, and believing the lies of this world. However, by God's grace I have the Gospel and I'm called to know it, share it, and preach it to myself every day. I'm challenged to memorize more scripture, to read the Gospels more intently, and to make it the forefront of my thought life. I think I serious change is in order! :-)

Sweethearts

2009-02-13T15:02:00.003-05:00

I'm not a big Valentines Day fan. No bitterness there, I promise! I believe if you're going to do something special for someone, don't wait until some "designated" day. Most singles call it "Singles Awareness Day" (SAD). I try to just find it to be another day of the year, and I intend to spend it relaxed... perhaps with a run around Clemson and then a movie! :-)
However, there is one thing I really enjoy about this holiday. Necco Sweethearts. You know, the conversational hearts. It has to be the Necco brand. Any other and it's just imitation. I don't generally like sweets. In fact, the only other candy I really like are Gobstoppers (the hard kind.. chewy is gross). Okay, back to the Sweethearts. They aren't exactly flavorful, except for the white hearts. However, they're stil somehow delicious. Maybe it's because I only eat them one time a year? Maybe.
I got a package from my parents today. Inside was a card and four boxes of the Sweethearts. My mom knows the way to my heart.. hehe... pardon the pun.

Skunk Infestation

2009-02-09T11:38:00.006-05:00

Everyone knows that Clemson University's campus is overrun by squirles. They attack air conditioners, trashcans, food, people... well, maybe not people, but I think that's next to come. Anyway, I figured that would be the culmination of any animal problems during my college career. I was wrong. The skunks are on the rise.

Let me preface this next part by saying that I grew up in the middle-of-nowhere of South Carolina. In other words, I was surrounded by woods, animals, insects, swamps, etc. The nearest interstate was at least an hour away! Going to Wal-Mart was rare. Dispite my living in the midst of nature, I never saw a skunk and I never smelled a skunk.

Everything changed two weeks ago. My little duplex neighborhood has been overrun with these conniving creatures. I drove over a dead skunk recently (accidental!) and my roommate forced me to shower because I smelled of nastiness. Last Wednesday I was almost to my apartment when my senses were overwhelmed with the putrid stench (from a different skunk). It was so bad I could actually taste it. Also, the next evening I was driving in the same area when I saw a live one on the side of the road. I screamed and sped away as fast as possible. The entrance to our driveway always smells sketchy too.

There has also been an incident on campus. Housing has been painting the ground floor of Lever Hall and leaving the doors open in order let the floor air out. A lovely skunk wandered in and somehow got into the air handler. The entire building reeked. I know because I smelled it myself.

This is serious. If something doesn't change soon, we could all be smelling skunk or smelling like skunk. Horrifying!

CAT Bus and Stevie Wonder

2009-01-26T10:43:00.003-05:00

I ride the CAT Bus at least 3 days a week, depending on if I can find a parking spot in the convenient gravel lot. There are an assortment of CAT Bus drivers, and my favorite one is fairly eccentric.

For example: One day on the bus, I was riding down Perimeter from the Brooks Center to the parking lot behind the stadium. The bus was booking down the hill and we were nearing an intersection, and the bus driver yells, "We're flying now!" My life briefly flashed before my eyes. If were were t-boned at the intersection, we would role.

Another example of this fine bus driver was this morning. As I stepped into the bus, I was immediately greeted by Stevie Wonder blaring through the speakers. This bus is always cranking oldies music to which the driver enthusiastically sings along.

To make a long story short, when I ride the CAT Bus I get to risk my life and hang out with crazy drivers and Stevie Wonder. Only at Clemson.

Psalm 25

2009-01-14T18:29:00.004-05:00

So far it's been a very good but busy week. I had an interview yesterday, but I'm not yet prepared to further discuss it. However, I will say that it went very well and the Lord is at work. Much to pray about..
Before the interview, I was reading through some scripture and two verses (4-5) from Psalm 25 stuck out in a huge way. I hope you find them huge as well. It's from the ESV:

"Make me to know your ways, O LORD;
teach me your paths.
Lead me in your truth and teach me,
for you are the God of my salvation;
for you I wait all the day long."

LaFonda is still sick

2009-01-12T23:06:00.003-05:00

First of all, I want to throw a big thank you out to all guys who are willing to help us girls when we have car troubles. One of my friends recently put new windshield washer nozzles on my hood so I could actually clean my windshield again. YAY!!

Well, I posted just before Christmas about my car's leak. My dad and I thought we solved the problem. Well, it has rained quite a bit since I came back to Clemson and I noticed that the leak is STILL there. My trunk is wet, the floorboard behind the front seat is wet and get this...

In the morning freeze, not only is the outside of my windshield iced over, but the INSIDE is too. It makes for a very wet situation.

Oh LaFonda the Honda... she may end up rusting from the inside out before it's over.

Perhaps, I should take her to an auto shop ASAP. In the meantime, I need to dry my carpet with a hairdryer before mold starts forming.. lovely. :-P

Here it comes!

2009-01-04T16:26:00.004-05:00

Gosh, it seems like yesterday college began. Now I'm entering my LAST semester. Wow.. I'm so thankful for the past 3 1/2 years. It's been such an incredible adventure and I plan for it to go out in a bang. Savor every moment.. let nothing go to waste. The Lord has been so good.
My dear friend, April, pretty much said it all in her blog.

I still tend to think of myself as a teenager.. still a kid. It's weird that I'm a big girl (or a woman) now and I get to do big girl things come May: Bills, job, grad school, travel, etc.

For now I need to develop a list of things to do before I graduate. Any ideas, please comment!!

Family Nicknames

2008-12-24T19:39:00.002-05:00

Some families aren't big nicknamers and others, like mine, can't get enough of them. I thought about this today as my mom was reading the "To' and "From" on some of the presents.. she had to ask who the people were (one of them was her). Some of our nicknames we've had since we were young kids, but my oldest brother, Jason, continues to invent new ones for certain people. Here's the running list for us all. Some created by our parents, others (those in italics) created by Jason.

Stacy: Nunee, Horse Woman

Michael (Stacy's Husband): Mike
Jackson (son): J-Bo
Alex (son): Short Round, Chi-Chi

Jason: Bird, Bison, Handsome Bear, Papa Bear

Jenny (Jason's wife): J-Vo, Prairy Dog, Sugar Bear, Brown Sugar Bear, Mama Bear
Christopher (son): C-Bear, Mini Handsom Bear, Junior Bear, Stopher, Stone Wall

Matthew: Chu-Chi, Chu-Chi Wa WA

Me: Tuna, Tuna Fish, Tuna Tamisha, Tuna Maria, Mad, Mad Woman

Andrew: Pooh, Pooh Bear

This may have been a boring post, but I'm a tad bored. Excitement doesn't begin until the siblings arrive. Merry Christmas Eve!!

Christopher's 1st Birthday!

2008-12-21T22:16:00.007-05:00

I love my nephews. They are such precious, energetic boys. My brother and his wife arrived today to spend Christmas between our house and Jenny's, and we celebrated their son's first birthday this afternoon! He's such a joy.. full of smiles and energy. I love being "Aunt Madeline."

Christopher is waiting for his cake

Unfortunately, my camera doesn't have sound..

Wet LaFonda the Honda

2008-12-19T16:44:00.005-05:00

For at least a month, my trunk has been wet on the inside. Probably longer actually. I haven't had any liquids back there, only a box and a some shoes. For a while, I thought maybe it was just collecting a lot of moisture from the humidity or something.. I don't know.. I'm an audio tech major not an automotive engineer.

I wish I had taken pictures, because yesterday my dad and I set out to discover this leaky problem. With my backseat completely down (to expose the trunk from the inside of my car) we sprayed water all over the back end of the car. I was inside with my feet at the front dash and my head in the trunk.. quite a site. Thankfully, we found the culprit.. bad rubber sealers around the trunk rim. Aha! Now, once we either get to sealers or glue to fasten the old stuff down, my trunk can hopefully dry out. It's starting to smell...

My trunk (only it's another car of the same model that looks cleaner)

I passed!!

2008-12-18T14:14:00.006-05:00

Fall semester has come to a close. This was a fast semester, and I'm so thankful I made it out alive academically. Music Theory is over.. FOREVER (The Sandlot version). I'm so thankful of all the Lord taught me this season. Usually Fall is challenging with all the readjustments and such, but the Lord was faithful and I'd say this was the best! :-) After exams finished up, I spent some time with some friends before coming home. Here are some pictures from our adventures:

Meredyth and Amy showing off their scones

Me and Kendra in Downtown Gville

Now I need to go clean out my car.. I think I have water leaking into the backseat. Perhaps I'll post pictures of that later.

Decisions Decisions

2008-12-04T12:24:00.005-05:00

With graduation quickly approaching, I am faced with the reality that I have to enter the "real world" of jobs, loan payments, and bills. The question that keeps revisiting my mind is, "What will happen after May?" Currently, three options are in the mix:

A: Seminary
B: Generation Link with Crosspoint
C: Fuge Internship (which is no guarantee)

I keep telling myself that I have TIME to decide and to keep praying for guidance and discernment. I'm convicted that I really struggle with making decisions without much prayer because I freak out that I'll run out of time, disappoint people, etc. Yesterday, I recieved an email from the Lifeway Fuge camps explaining that I'd be accepted to work Centri-Kid next summer. GREAT!....right?? I didn't expect to hear back from Fuge so early. I loved working CK last summer.. I wanted it to be a permanent job, not temporary. Temporary is the word.. it lasts 2 months so what would I do come August and is that actually where the Lord is calling me? If I did Generation Link, which would be a great opportunity, I would need to spend my summer raising support.

Basically, I desperately need to seek the Lord in these decisions.. in every decision I make in life. I'm convicted of how often I choose to do otherwise. Last night, while mulling over all this, I came across a verse from Psalms. Scripture.. it's good stuff.

"Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the LORD!" -Psalm 27:14

Thanksgiving Update

2008-12-01T11:26:00.002-05:00

I got to see this little guy during my Thanksgiving break. :-)

Christopher - 11 months old

Thanksgiving Break

2008-11-24T12:20:00.005-05:00

Thanksgiving has always been a laid-back holiday. I really enjoy it, but there are no traditions, etc. In fact, every Thanksgiving is different, which can make for some adventures!

One year we went to Granny's (mom's mom) house... that was interesting.. she's a different bird.

In 10th grade I was just getting over a month of pneumonia and no school. Despite coughing up my lungs and chilling on a couch for several weeks, I spanked my three brothers in Backyard Homerun Derby.

Last year since none of my sibling were going to be home for the holiday, I went home with one of my best friends. I had a wonderful time and enjoyed the rest!

This year, I will be returning to my parents house in Simpsonville, where I will await the arrival of my brother, his wife, and their precious 11-month-old son, Christopher. Even though only my little brother and Jason's family at home, it will be a very laidback and relaxing atmosphere. Perhaps we'll break out a small game of "Truck-bed Ball". I have to defend my title..

Jackson and Alex

2008-11-17T23:31:00.003-05:00

I posted a picture not too long ago of my brother, Jason, and his wife's son, Christopher. He's such a cute little kid and I'm so excited to see his little 11-month-old self at Thanksgiving!

However, Christopher is one of three nephews. My other two, Jackson and Alex, are my sister's boys. Jackson is 6 and Alex is 5, and these boys are so much fun! My sister posted some up-to-date pictures on her blog and I thought I'd share them with you.

Alex

Jackson

Crosspoint Choir and Large Diaphragm Mics

2008-11-13T20:43:00.006-05:00

I have the great opportunity run sound 2 - 3 times a month for Crosspoint Church. Though getting up at 5:30am on Sunday mornings can be daunting, the band is awesome and it's great worship to the Lord.

This Sunday the choir is performing with the band. This is my 2nd time having to amplify the small choir, and last time was a tear-filled adventure. Let me put it this way:

The type of microphone makes ALL the difference!!

The first time, we used two small diaphragm condensers (look like cigars). Since our building is all brick (on the inside), we delt with a ton of feedback and struggled to get enough gain in the system. Not my favorite experience, but a learning one.

This time, we were fortunate to borrow two LARGE diaphragm microphones, AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone. They are less sensitive to the reflections off the brick walls, and we actually get tons of gain on the choir withOUT feedback. Such a blessing. Another great perk about these mikes is that they only cost around $100. That's CHEAP and surprising! I'm hoping Crosspoint will eventually invest in two of these babies.

Stairwells Hurt

2008-11-11T13:01:00.003-05:00

I can be quite clumsy every now and then, but rarely do I fall down stairs. However, yesterday I didn't fall down stairs.. I tumbled.
My feet slipped on the top step in the stairwell at my church and, in what seemed like slow motion, I attempted to catch myself but failed to do so, landing on my left leg (bone) twice.

The entire way down I'm thinking, "I need to catch myself! I can't catch myself! I'm going to break a bone! (And my favorite) I really hope no one is looking!!"

Thankfully, there were no broken bones, but lots of bruises. I quickly popped up, scared that someone could have seen the whole episode, and wobbled down the rest of the stairs.

It's funny.. I think it is..

Christopher!

2008-11-05T11:33:00.002-05:00

I have some really precious nephews. Here is an up-to-date picture of my youngest nephew, Christopher. He'll be a year old on December 21st. He's growing up so fast!!

Gas = $1.99

2008-11-01T23:17:00.002-04:00

Yes, you read the title correctly! Today in Travelers Rest, SC I managed to buy gas for LESS than two dollars. Crazy! Gas hasn't been this low since my freshman year of college. I wish I would have taken a picture of the sign, but after waiting 20 minutes to pump gas (big surprise), I just wanted to head back to Clemson.

Today I had a fun day in Asheville and Brevard. I met my parents in TR and did a little "junk-tique-ing" (a mix of looking at junk and antiques) up in the mountains. Asheville has this awesome antique vendor called the Tobacco Barn off of Exit 50 when your driving East on I-40. The place is huge and you can find some really great furnature and even some Fiesta Ware if you're lucky. It can be hit or miss, but still fun. Anyways, it was a blessing to be in the mountains again. They are such an awesome example of how great our God is. I really wish I could have gone hiking, but my parents aren't exactly spring chickens. It was still fun though!

Great friends, Great weekend

2008-10-20T13:18:00.005-04:00

It's been a really challenging semester trying to stay on track with school and balance the whole "back to school from camp change." However, the Lord has been so faithful. I've had to learn a ton in a short amount of time (some hard, all good), but this past weekend was so REFRESHING. I honestly have some of the best, sweetest sisters imaginable and this weekend was spent with almost all of them. I'm so thankful for the opportunity listen to what's going on in their lives, share stories, and pray for one another. The Lord knows exactly what we need and this weekend came at a perfect time.

Been a While..

2008-10-01T17:14:00.002-04:00

Wow, I haven't posted in nearly 3 months. Sorry for the brief disappearance. Camp got even busier (but only more incredible) and then with the craziness of school starting back, I just stopped blogging. Oh I thought about it on several occassions, but I'm lazy. :-P

It's crazy to think that I'm already a senior. It seems like yesterday I was running up and down the Manning stairwell from room to room to hang out with my friends. Time flies and graduation is quickly approaching!!

It's easy so to get into "coast" mode and just try to make it through the year, but I really do want this year to be meaningful with no time wasted. God is moving and he is good, even though I often don't understand what he's doing. It's and adventure.

Okay, now that I've shown my face, perhaps I'll make more posts from now on that have more of a purpose rather than just rambling.