Hmm..
Today has been an emotional roller coaster for me. I feel...dejected. After I served the kids lunch, the director wanted to talk to me about my schedule. No problem there, I thought. Well, I guess my wanting to go home to celebrate my graduation was a problem with them. So was the possibility of flying out to an interview of a possible place to teach at. They didn't like it at all. So, they fired me, on the grounds of "playing the schedule". Huh? They knew I was graduating and I put in for time off a while ago. They approved it. It just wasn't convenient for them. So, I was told to think about it. I didn't know they already made up their mind, though. So, I was wrongly lied to and fired. BUT..God is in control. I've been talking to my pastor back home (I called him on my lunch break and then when I got off work since they let me finish today's shift). I cried, I was mad, I was sad...Hey, I'm a girl! Pastor said this is God's way of closing that door and getting me out of there. No holds. It hurts. Please don't think this as a sob story. It's not. It's a story of how God is working in my life at this moment. The Bible never said we would be "happy" all the time and that everything would go my way. It will go God's way. I have to be open to it. My pastor told me to quit blubbering and whining about it. We had some laughs, too. He asked me why I was so upset about and I told him that I had never been fired before. He laughed, I laughed. I didn't want to break that record, but it happened anyway. Well, enough for now. I've got a paper to finish and now I have more time to do so.
Oh yeah. During my lunch break, I locked my keys in my car. I saw a state trooper car outside and asked the librarian. He just called the local station and they sent out a police officer. He couldn't unlock (did not have his slim jim with him). So his boss came out. He opened it on the fourth try. What a day!

This past weekend

Nicole, Bekah, Bekah's mom, Hannah
Nicole, Bekah, Bekah's mom, Hannah
Nicole, Bekah, Bekah's mom, Hannah
Nicole and Bekah
Nicole and Bekah


Alright. Now for the long awaited update.

All last week was an amazing Preaching Conference. It was a very busy week as well. Then, Friday was a day off of classes for the academy and college, so I worked a full shift (I traded Tuesday and Friday hours). I worked at the day care from 9am-6pm and then I worked my cleaning job from 6:20pm-11:30 pm. I got up at 4:40 am on Saturday to get ready to leave. We left about 5:20 am. The trip itself was not very long at all, only about an hour and a half since there was little traffic out at that time. When we got to Bekah's house, her mom and brother (Ben) had breakfast almost ready (delicious pancakes), then Bekah and here mom did some errands while I took a little nap. Then, we got ready for the Ladies Banquet. Her mom and sister (Hannah) were table hosts and furnished some very beautiful tables, as well as the other ladies in the church. Her dad and brothers (the other is Seth) helped serve with some of the other men.

The banquet was very nice. Hope you enjoy the pics! We did!

Her mom kicked the boys out of the house and into the camper and we stayed in the boys' room. Seth (11) likes to talk and nearly talked my ear off! Ben (15) is a very talented artist in many ways, from drawing, carving, and building. Hannah (14) likes to write and had some very nice poems. I enjoyed her parents' stories at meal times. We all laughed very hard! The meals were very good too. I did try something sort of unusual, though: homemade pineapple, mushroom, pepperoni, and sweet potato pizza, mine minus the pineapple and mushrooms. It wasn't bad at all!

The Sunday services were nice too. I was warmly accepted and greeted by the folks of the church. I even made some new little friends (some of the kids in the church). One of the little girls, so I'm told, talked about me all weekend! She was such a sweety and even wanted me to sit by her during the evening service. Please pray for a lady named Geneva (78). She fell in between Sunday School and the morning service and broke 3 ribs and punctured a lung. We all felt so bad for her. Praise the Lord a paramedic attends the church and was able to help her.

All in all, It was very relaxing (I took no school work with me!) and I did not have to work at all. My schedule was very open and it felt nice. I needed that refresher!

Oh, Saturday night , we started to watch the The Printing and Sunday afternoon we watched Time Changers. We (Bekah, Ben, and I) played out own version of "In a Pickle", a game that was in the boys' closet. Oh, did we have a blast!

I hope you had a great weekend as well!

Wednesday, April 26, 2006

My pastor spoiled me yesterday! I was able to re-work my work schedule to have yesterday afternoon off instead of Friday and I went out with my pastor, his wife, my youth pastor, and his daughter. We went to a local mall. When we got there, Pastor and Mrs. were talking about which store to go to: JC Penney's or Sears. She chose Penney's and then Pastor told me that they were going to buy me a new graduation dress as a gift. My jaw dropped to the floor! I am certainly not used to that! They also got me a new pair of shoes to go with it.

This has been a busy, but great week. I have enjoyed having folks I know here. The two girls that came from my church are staying in my room. I see them the most in the morning when we are all getting ready for breakfast.

My interviews went pretty well, as far as I know. Two of the three are needing teachers this next school year. One needs a kindergarten teacher! I would love to do that! BUT, I want God's will more than anything when I get a teaching position.

I went to the Alumni Breakfast this morning and it was good. We all had to introduce ourselves after we ate. When that was done, I left for work. I'm on lunch break (well, heading back in a few minutes) and was also to catch a few of my people before they went on an activity. Later folks!
Please keep me in prayer concerning this teaching position! Thank you much!

In remembrance

Happy Birthday to my triplet siblings Logan, Laura, and Lucas who would have been 9 years old today. You are in Heaven singing and praising the Lord. You were with us only for a short amount of time, but it was enough to leave a life-long impression on our hearts. I love and miss you much! Even though I did not/ do not understand your brief life on this earth, the Lord knows and had/ has a reason for it. I trust in God. he will keep you, little ones.

Waiting For Me

For my triplet siblings Logan, Laura, & Lucas who are waiting for me

As the sun begins to rise,
Tears are falling from my eyes,
'Cause today's the dayYou went away.
I thought I'd have you forever,
I thought I's never lose you , no never.
This day is dedicated to you,
Thought the pleasant memories are few.
Sometimes I wish that I could die,
But then I see the birds fly
And I know you are somewhere out there,
Waiting for me.
A free spirit hiding,
Perhaps you are crying
But I know you are out there,
Waiting for me.
Oh, how I wish I could see you again,
Then you can tell me where you have been,
But the time is not now, but is to come
When the Lord Jesus calls me home.

Copyright ©2006 Nicole

Interviews!

I have three teaching interviews on Tuesday morning before I go to work! I am so excited! On is for a place in Kansas and the other two are for places in Utah. Please be praying with me that God will lead me and show me what He wants me to do to.

I am also looking forward to next week because I will get to see some familiar faces! My youth pastor and his daughter are coming down (Brenda called last night me to ask if she could be in my room) and my pastor and his wife are coming down as well! It will be a good, but very busy week. I traded my half day of work on Friday to Tuesday so that I can try to spend some time with the folks from my church. My friend Jael will be here as well (she is actually coming in tonight). I have her in reserve for Saturday night so we can spend some time in the piano room, her playing and me singing.

Then, I will be out of town the next Saturday to go to a friend's house and church for the weekend. I am looking forward to a change in the monotonous right now. I certainly need the reprieve.

Been thinking a lot. Just have a lot going on. A lot to consider. Not sure where the Lord wants me yet. Pretty sure it's not "here", though.
Been thinking about the passage of Romans 12:1-3 (King James Version)
1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
What is our "reasonable service?" According to the verse, it is to "present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God."
Let's look at some definitions by way of Webster's Dictionary 1828 :
LIV'ING, ppr. [from live.]
1. Dwelling; residing; existing; subsisting; having life or the vital functions in operation; not dead.
2. a. Issuing continually from the earth; running; flowing; as a living spring or fountain; opposed to stagnant.
3. a. Producing action, animation and vigor; quickening; as a living principle; a living faith.
LIV'ING, n. He or those who are alive; usually with a plural signification; as in the land of the living.
The living will lay it to his heart. Eccles. 7.
LIV'ING, n.
1. Means of subsistence; estate.
He divided to them his living. Luke 15.
She of her want, did cast in all that she had, even all her living. Mark 41.
2. Power of continuing life. There is no living with a scold.
There is no living without trusting some body or other in some cases.
3. Livelihood. He made a living by his occupation. The woman spins for a living.
4. The benefice of a clergyman. He lost his living by non-conformity.

SAC'RIFICE, v.t. sac'rifize. [L. sacrifico; sacer, sacred, and facio, to make.]
1. To offer to God in homage or worship, by killing and consuming, as victims on an altar; to immolate, either as an atonement for sin, or to procure favor, or to express thankfulness; as, to sacrifice an ox or a lamb. 2Sam. 6.
2. To destroy, surrender or suffer to be lost for the sake of obtaining something; as, to sacrifice the peace of the church to a little vain curiosity. We should never sacrifice health to pleasure, nor integrity to fame.
3. To devote with loss.
Condemn'd to sacrifice his childish years to babbling ignorance and to empty fears.
4. To destroy; to kill.

HO'LY, a.
1. Properly, whole, entire or perfect, in a moral sense. Hence, pure in heart, temper or dispositions; free from sin and sinful affections. Applied to the Supreme Being, holy signifies perfectly pure, immaculate and complete in moral character; and man is more or less holy, as his heart is more or less sanctified, or purified from evil dispositions. We call a man holy,when his heart is conformed in some degree to the image of God, and his life is regulated by the divine precepts. Hence, holy is used as nearly synonymous with good, pious, godly.
Be ye holy; for I am holy. 1 pet.1.
2. Hallowed; consecrated or set apart to a sacred use, or to the service or worship of God; a sense frequent in Scripture; as the holy sabbath; holy oil; holy vessels; a holy nation; the holy temple; a holy priesthood.
3. Proceeding from pious principles,or directed to pious purposes; as holy zeal.
4. Perfectly just and good; as the holy law of God.
5. Sacred; as a holy witness.
Holy of holies, in Scripture, the innermost apartment of the Jewish tabernacle or temple, where the ark was kept,and where no person entered, except the high priest, once a year.
Holy Ghost, or Holy Spirit, the Divine Spirit; the third person in the Trinity; the sanctifier of souls.
Holy war, a war undertaken to rescue the holy land, the ancient Judea, from the infidels; a crusade; an expedition carried on by christians against the Saracens in the eleventh, twelfth and thirteenth centuries; a war carried on in a most unholy manner.
ACCEPT'ABLE, a.
1. That may be received with pleasure; hence pleasing to a receiver; gratifying; as an acceptable present.
2. Agreeable or pleasing in person; as, a man makes himself acceptable by his services or civilities.
RE'ASONABLE, a.
1. Having the faculty of reason; endued with reason; as a reasonable being. [In this sense, rational is now generally used.]
2. Governed by reason; being under the influence of reason; thinking, speaking or acting rationally or according to the dictates of reason; as, the measure must satisfy all reasonable men.
3. Conformable or agreeable to reason; just; rational.
By indubitable certainty, I mean that which does not admit of any reasonable cause of doubting.
A law may be reasonable in itself, though a man does not allow it.
4. Not immoderate.
Let all things be thought upon, that may with reasonable swiftness add more feathers to our wings.
5. Tolerable; being in mediocrity; moderate; as a reasonable quantity.
6. Not excessive; not unjust; as a reasonable fine; a reasonable sum in damages.
SERV'ICE, n. [From L. servitium.]
1. In a general sense, labor of body or of body and mind, performed at the command of a superior, or the pursuance of duty, or for the benefit of another. Service is voluntary or involuntary. Voluntary service is that of hired servants, or of contract, or of persons who spontaneously perform something for another's benefit. Involuntary service is that of slaves, who work by compulsion.
2. The business of a servant; menial office.
3. Attendance of a servant.
4. Place of a servant; actual employment of a servant; as, to be out of service.
5. Any thing done by way of duty to a superior.
_____________
Living Sacrifice:
having life or the vital functions in operation; not dead and to offer to God in homage or worship
Holy:
Properly, whole, entire or perfect, in a moral sense. Hence, pure in heart, temper or dispositions; free from sin and sinful affections
Acceptable:
That may be received with pleasure; hence pleasing to a receiver; gratifying; as an acceptable present
Reasonable Service:
Tolerable; being in mediocrity; moderate; as a reasonable quantity and In a general sense, labor of body or of body and mind, performed at the command of a superior, or the pursuance of duty, or for the benefit of another. Service is voluntary or involuntary. Voluntary service is that of hired servants, or of contract, or of persons who spontaneously perform something for another's benefit. Involuntary service is that of slaves, who work by compulsion.
__________
Have you thought about that? How often do we go about doing what we think we should do without even considering if it is what God would have us do? What is my reasonable service? To be a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God. To give myself over completely to God to do as He would have me do. Jesus died on the cross for my sins. I put Him there. He shed His holy, perfect, sinless blood for an unholy, selfish sinner: Me. He took on my sins to allow me the opportunity to spend eternity with Him if only I accept precious gift. I accepted that gift over ten years ago and how am I living now? I serve an incredible God in whom I can not completely fathom, but I know all will be well because He holds me fast.
How has your reasonable service been?

Have a great Good Friday!

Just another day in my world

Yesterday was interesting. I am usually in the infant nursery (0-6 months) Sunday morning during the church service, but we only had 3 babies and three workers, so I went to the other nurseries to see if I could be of assistance. They needed help in the 2 yr old boy nursery. What a handful those boys were! I was trying to keep an eye on one of them in particular. As I was tying his shoe, he kicked me in the face, pulled my hair, etc. What a pistol! I finally did get him calmed down by the end and he was even saying please and thank you (for marshmallows). I wonder what he'll be like next week...

It may be hard to see fruit with children of this age, but it will come later. Being consistent with children is a key. I do love working with the kids. Even if they try to hurt me. Seeing them come to know Christ will overshadow anything else they have done. I'm willing to go through it again.
Afterwards, I went on bus and we went bowling. I kept an eye on the little ones on the bumper lanes. It was quite humorous watching them bowl! I'm glad I got to help (I'm not on bus right now, but they needed a little extra help with some workers being gone).

Today, I had to laugh at my day care kids. One little girl drew on herself, said she didn't and then said her hand did it. Another girl said something and was tattled on, but what was said wasn't really bad at all: Peter, Peter, pumpkin-underwear. We usually say "Peter, Peter, pumpkin-eater". I really do try not to laugh!

Family

Saturday was great and I didn't want it to end. My mom, sister, and brother pulled in moments before my unsuspecting aunt and I had them pull around to the back lot. Then My aunt pulled in and I told her to I wanted to show her something and that she should park in the back. She pulled into the spot right in front of my mom. My aunt talked for a bit and then looked up and said that the lady in that car looked like me, the she almost looked like my mom. I told her it was my mom! What a happy reunion it was! Then we went out for dinner at Ryan's and then we went to the mall.
My aunt bought my brother a new pair of jeans and a t-shirt and then she and my sister got the top of their ear pierced and tried talking me into it, but I said no. One hole in each ear is plenty for me! It did get to sit in those massaging chairs. That felt so good on my aching back.
I start house-sitting/puppy-sitting tonight! Yay! I can't wait! I get to have a whole house to myself for about a week. And a dog! It will certainly be refreshing.
I am done with school in less than two months! Wow! Time sure does fly.
Have a blessed day!

Just some thoughts

After four years of being here for college, it's almost hard to think of what I will be doing once I leave. I don't know where God wants me yet. I was told my church back home is in need of some help, but I just don't know. I am praying about it, but then again, Pastor has not even talked to me about it, so....
Also, I have gone through quite a bit of emotional ups and downs while being here. When I first got here, I wanted to leave and never come back. I just didn't like it. It wasn't what I was used to. I also had a lot of growing up to do over the years. It wasn't until the middle of my sophomore year that I finally accepted that this was God's will for my life right now. My, how things changed then! I have truly come to love this place and the people. I have made some great friends (many who not even college students, but regular church members). I have had the opportunity to participate in a number of the different ministries available to serve in. I was in the nursing home ministry, nursery, Spanish ministry (in the nursery...I don't even know enough Spanish to get me trouble...that's what happens when you take German in high school...it doesn't really get used!), subbed on the bus ministry, getting out visiting on a regular basis (I had not gotten too involved...shame on me...while at home before college), Saturday bus visiting (for over a year now), and the Master Clubs children's ministry. I really like Master Clubs. From what I am told, it is kind of like Awanas Clubs or Patch Clubs (I've never even been to any of those). I love being the 1st grade girls club leader. My girls this year are doing a great job in their books (mainly memorizing Scripture, which is excellent and what every Christian ought to be doing). Last night, I was given the responsibility of the Bible story for class time. This is the second time this semester. I had the girls act out (pantomime, actually) the story of Jairus's daughter. I think I had half the class up there. I used to dread getting up in front people, even children, to tell a story or even give a testimony. God is so great when He enables us to do something we know we could not accomplish on our own.
If there was one thing I could have (should have) changed, it would have been to work in a Sunday School class. I was offered the opportunity to do it once at home (as a sub), but I shied away from it, thinking I wouldn't do a good job. I would not have done a good job, but Christ in me would have been able to enable me if I would have given Him the chance. I think I have missed out on a wonderful opportunity to serve Christ in that aspect.
God has done some wonderful things in my life spiritually these last four years and I am very grateful for His love and mercy He has bestowed on my life.

The day care is quite interesting. Last night after the last child left, April and I had to rearrange a few things and make small, green footprints around the building. Now, I do not celebrate St. Patrick's Day for what it has become (greedy money seeking), but at the day care, they have their parties (today and tomorrow). So, when they came in this morning, they were told that Finnigan the Leprechaun played some tricks on us (the rearranging) and left muddy footprints all over. They tried to keep quiet so they could hunt him down. Jody said she was going to set a trap and try to catch him later (liquid gold gold glitter in a clear cup). After a little bit, the teachers were saying that they saw him running. Then came the chase. Those kids ran to each room looking for Finnigan. Then Jody showed the cup and it was green. They did not catch him, but he left a note and some shamrock stickers and green plastic coins. They kids were cute running around looking for Finnigan.

I'm feeling much better now! Yay! It feels good to feel good again.

Often times it is so easy to get our eyes off of God and on to ourselves. We start looking at situations and what is around us right now. I want to take just a moment to share some blessings that can with getting Strep:

1. I have experienced it and can be sincere when I tell others "I know how you feel"

2. I got some much needed rest

3. A 4-day weekend from the day care (I really do enjoy working there, but I was quite run down)

4. I did not have to get up at 6:30 in the morning

5. Others pitched in to help me for my ministries on Thursday night

Have a blessed day!

On the mend

Well, after two days of much sleep, I am finally starting to feel a bit better. Thank you to those who were praying for me. It was weird to see white spots all over my tonsils. Yuck! I've been taking my antibiotics (but I have to take them for 10 days), gargling with salt water, trying to drink fluids (but it still hurts!), and eating a little here and there. I did have to call off work again, but because of a remaining fever. I feel really bad about missing work, but policy is policy. I can say that I do not like Gatorade at all! I still have some more to drink.

The doctor I saw was the same one I had when I went in for Bronchitis. He gave me a coupon for my prescription and I ended up getting it for free! How great is that? Well, enough for now.

How is everyone else doing?

Well, I guess I will keep on getting sick with things I never had before I came to college. Right now, I have Strep. It's not fun and I had to miss work today. Being a workaholic, that really bugs me, but I do not want to pass this on to the kids (I probably got it from them, though). I slept in today. I never get to do that. I got up a little before lunch time to shower and get ready for lunch. I have some things to get ready for Master Clubs. I have verse for both Round-up Time and class time. Lets see what I can come up with.

Monday, February 27, 2006

Hmmm...some little boys are trying to win my heart and it's working! Bailey made me a stamp art picture and it was hanging on the fridge at work. On the front said "Miss Nicole" and on the back said "from Bailey." How cute! Then today, while being the outside teacher (more or less watching the kids play outside, 3 yr old Jordan came up to me, grabbed my hand and said, "let's go for a walk." So we walked around the playground. These kids are too cute!

Well, I must get going. Much to do before I head to work again. Have a blessed day!

Hmmm...some little boys are trying to win my heart and it's working! Bailey made me a stamp art picture and it was hanging on the fridge at work. On the front said "Miss Nicole" and on the back said "from Bailey." How cute! Then today, while being the outside teacher (more or less watching the kids play outside, 3 yr old Jordan came up to me, grabbed my hand and said, "let's go for a walk." So we walked around the playground. These kids are too cute!

Well, I must get going. Much to do before I head to work again. Have a blessed day!

Ouch! I cracked my head on my car door yesterday afternoon. It still hurts! I am getting all bruised up lately. I got a nasty bruise from trying to get off my top bunk bed in a hurry, "kicked" an exercise machine (not on purpose!), dropped a huge can of fruit (for the day care) on my knee, slid on the floor that had some dirt on it and scraped up my knee, burned my fingers on a hot pan...I'M A KLUTZ!!!!!!!!

Anyway. Things are going pretty well. I've been busy.

Have a blessed day!

Yesterday was a long day at work. 9 hours with no lunch break. This happened because we had an in-service teacher's meeting. It went pretty well. They talked about ways to improve and such and then it was opened to the rest to make comments. They started talking about me because I am pulling double duty there because I am their cook and a teacher. They said I am the best cook they have ever had (mainly because I am nice to the kids and not mean to them). I thought they were just saying that because I was sitting right there in front of them, but when I went and checked on the nappers in the two's room (a few were awake and moving around), I could hear the remaining staff talking about me again saying what a good job I was doing. I don't like being talked about, whether I am in the room or not, good or bad. Things like that could make one get a big head. I really don't think I have done that good of a job. I have made some really dumb mistakes. Anyway...

Before the meeting, I feed the kindergarten crew of 5 early again. Since they did not have school Friday or Monday, I didn't have to feed anyone early. I gave them each 4 M&Ms (from a funsize package) and they were why I gave them candy. I told them that I missed them. They one said "You thought about us?" I told them I sure did. Another girl said that she thought about me too. I said "You did?" She said "Yes. I thought about how much I love you." How sweet! The others soon chimed in with saying they loved me too. It was really cute. I love working with kids.

If you read that post on Feb. 15, I told you about that one little girl who told me she didn't like the candy I gave her, well, I have a small update about her. The two days following, she was trying to be a little sweeter. She thanked me for the cookies that were out for morning snack (I had nothing to do with them...it was another child's birthday) and then the next day she complemented me on the dress I was wearing. After the kindergartners were finished with their lunch and helped me set up the hallway for the rest of the kids' lunch time (5 kindergartners eat an hour before the rest b/c they have to catch the bus for school), I called Taylor into the kitchen. I told her that she has been having a better attitude the last few days and that I really liked it. I told her it was good. Then I gave her a piece of candy. I saw her again after the bus dropped her off back at school (she was being picked up to go home) and I told her to keep up the good attitude and gave her a hug. I did find out that she comes from a rough home. April and I are trying to be mother figures to her. She really needs it.
____________

Doc read these a couple weeks ago and I found them to post them:

NON-BILL OF RIGHTS"

We, the sensible people of the United States, in an attempt to help everyone get along, restore some semblance of justice, avoid any more riots, keep our nation safe, promote positive behavior, and secure the blessings of debt-free liberty to ourselves and our great-great-great-grandchildren, hereby try one more time to ordain and establish some common sense guidelines for the terminally whiny, guilt-ridden, deluded, and other liberal bed-wetters. We hold these truths to be self-evident: that a whole lot of people are confused by the Bill of Rights and are so dim that they require a Bill of No Rights."

ARTICLE I:
You do not have the right to a new car, big screen TV or any other form of wealth. More power to you if you can legally acquire them, but no one is guaranteeing anything.

ARTICLE II:
You do not have the right to never be offended. This country is based on freedom, and that means freedom for everyone — not just you! You may leave the room, change the channel, or express a different opinion, but the world is full of idiots, and probably always will be.

ARTICLE III:
You do not have the right to be free from harm. If you stick a screwdriver in your eye, learn to be more careful, do not expect the tool manufacturer to make you and all your relatives independently wealthy.

ARTICLE IV:
You do not have the right to free food and housing. Americans are the most charitable people to be found, and will gladly help anyone in need, but we are quickly growing weary of subsidizing generation after generation of professional couch potatoes who achieve nothing more than the creation of another generation of professional couch potatoes.

ARTICLE V:
You do not have the right to free health care. That would be nice, but from the looks of public housing, we're just not interested in public health care.

ARTICLE VI:
You do not have the right to physically harm other people. If you kidnap, rape, intentionally maim, or kill someone, don't be surprised if the rest of us want to see you fry in the electric chair.

ARTICLE VII:
You do not have the right to the possessions of others. If you rob, cheat or coerce away the goods or services of other citizens, don't be surprised if the rest of us get together and lock you away in a place where you still won't have the right to a big screen color TV or a life of leisure.

ARTICLE VIII:
You don't have the right to demand that our children risk their lives in foreign wars to soothe your aching conscience. We hate oppressive governments and won't lift a finger to stop you from going to fight if you'd like. However, we do not enjoy parenting the entire world and do not want to spend so much of our time battling each and every little tyrant with a military uniform and a funny hat.

ARTICLE IX:
You don't have the right to a job. Sure, all of us want all of you to have one, and will gladly help you along in hard times, but we expect you to take advantage of the opportunities of education and vocational training laid before you to make yourself useful.

ARTICLE X:
You do not have the right to happiness. Being an American means that you have the right to pursue happiness — which, by the way, is a lot easier if you are unencumbered by an overabundance of idiotic laws created by those of you who were confused by the Bill of Rights. __________________________

It's time to get back into the swing of things. My one day off of work is about over and I still have some stuff to do. Oh yeah, Volleyball Marathon is starting tonight. I am very thankful the dean of students said that I don't have to participate this year. I am going to sponsor a few people, though. I just don't have the time to sign up for 4 hr shifts. I am at work most of the day (at the day care for 9 hours) and then I work at night for anywhere from 3-6 hours. The rest of the time I like to sleep or work on my school work. The only time I would have a 4 hr block is my sleeping time. Sleep in much more important.
____________________________

I guess I was an item of gossip the other night and them it was used as an illustration in dorm devos. From what I was told, a church lady asked my dorm mom how I was doing and asked where I was at. The church lady had asked someone else, I guess, and was told that they couldn't say anything because it was bad. ?!?!?!? (My dorm mom thinks this person had someone else in mind...and so do I!). That's why this church lady went to my dorm mom. She told her I was at work and doing fine. Some of the other girls told me about this the next morning (neither one of roomies were at devos either...we all work at night!). Then my dorm mom told me about it. We had a good laugh. Then, she saw me yesterday and said "Oh, you're not out running around with a guy?" I replied, "Not that I know of. I think I am still here!" We laughed again. That was certainly interesting. Gossip is a bad thing, but I'm glad things were cleared up. It's kind of sad to think that others would think wrongly of me, but that's probably why they went to my dorm mom to find out if what they had heard was true. My-oh-my!

Have a blessed Sunday, the Lord's Day!

Wednesday, February 15, 2006

Yesterday was pretty nice. The only sad thing was that I had more valentine greetings and cards than my birthday. Oh well. I'm over it.

I got some things from my day care kids: cards, candy, a mug

I gave the kindergarteners that I feed at 10:30 some bottlecap candy on and one girl looked at it and said she didn't like that kind. I looked at her and told her she was rude and took the candy back. This girl is something else. Then, she asked for the candy after she ate and I told her no because she didn't like it. The other kids said thank you. I don't think some of these are taught much at home.

I want to share some thoughts on my devotions, but I'll have to do that later. That will also give me some more time to think how I want to write.

I worked out the last two days and I hurt! I can't work out tonight because I am going visiting after work. I have a CPR class to attend on Saturday so I can't go bus visiting then.

Well, I owe, I owe, so it's off to work I go.

Have a blessed day!

Friday, February 17, 2006

Yesterday was "one of those days." I'm better now.

The other day, I read Daniel 3 for my devotions.

Daniel 3
1Nebuchadnezzar the king made an image of gold, whose height was threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof six cubits: he set it up in the plain of Dura, in the province of Babylon.

2Then Nebuchadnezzar the king sent to gather together the princes, the governors, and the captains, the judges, the treasurers, the counsellors, the sheriffs, and all the rulers of the provinces, to come to the dedication of the image which Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up.

3Then the princes, the governors, and captains, the judges, the treasurers, the counsellors, the sheriffs, and all the rulers of the provinces, were gathered together unto the dedication of the image that Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up; and they stood before the image that Nebuchadnezzar had set up.

4Then an herald cried aloud, To you it is commanded, O people, nations, and languages,

5That at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, ye fall down and worship the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the king hath set up:

6And whoso falleth not down and worshippeth shall the same hour be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace.

7Therefore at that time, when all the people heard the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and all kinds of musick, all the people, the nations, and the languages, fell down and worshipped the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up.

8Wherefore at that time certain Chaldeans came near, and accused the Jews.

9They spake and said to the king Nebuchadnezzar, O king, live for ever.

10Thou, O king, hast made a decree, that every man that shall hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, shall fall down and worship the golden image:

11And whoso falleth not down and worshippeth, that he should be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace.

12There are certain Jews whom thou hast set over the affairs of the province of Babylon, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego; these men, O king, have not regarded thee: they serve not thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.

13Then Nebuchadnezzar in his rage and fury commanded to bring Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Then they brought these men before the king.

14Nebuchadnezzar spake and said unto them, Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, do not ye serve my gods, nor worship the golden image which I have set up?

15Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, ye fall down and worship the image which I have made; well: but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands?

16Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter.

17If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king.

18But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.

19Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: therefore he spake, and commanded that they should heat the furnace one seven times more than it was wont to be heated.

20And he commanded the most mighty men that were in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and to cast them into the burning fiery furnace.

21Then these men were bound in their coats, their hosen, and their hats, and their other garments, and were cast into the midst of the burning fiery furnace.

22Therefore because the king's commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the flames of the fire slew those men that took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.

23And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace.

24Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonished, and rose up in haste, and spake, and said unto his counsellors, Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire? They answered and said unto the king, True, O king.

25He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God.

26Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, and spake, and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth, and come hither. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, came forth of the midst of the fire.

27And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king's counsellors, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was an hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them.

28Then Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed the king's word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God.

29Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak any thing amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort.

30Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, in the province of Babylon.
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Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego all had a backbone and wanted to do the right thing. All Christians should have such a desire to serve the Lord, but many do not. These men went against the flow of what everyone else was doing. They did not do it for show, either.

This passage was an encouragement and a challenge to me.

Saturday, February 18, 2006

I spent the day getting trained on infant, child, abd adult CPR and first aid. Now I am certified. The instructor was very rude and crude. I did not like him at all. He should consider who his audience is before opening his mouth. One good thing he did was not give some folks their cards because they were goofing off. They have to take the class again. I don't think he said a word to me when I was practicing on the dummies. It was interesting. I had to get trained because of day care worker regulations. Five of us college girls work in one of the two branches of the day care. April and I at the closest one and Leah, Megan, and Darcy at the other one (where the training was held). April and I went to WalMart afterwards and we found out there was a Subway in there so we had that for lunch.

Well, not too much going on today.

Have a blessed day!

Happy Single Awareness Day!

We had another very good message. Tonight, Preacher spoke on the ministry of suffering.
No one wants it. No one is going to volunteer to get cancer, go through financial ruin, to go through any pain or death. BUT, suffering, trials, and the valleys bring out the best in people. That is not saying every person who has been through at trial will make it because some people love their sin too much or they will just quit when it starts to get hot.

1 Peter 1:6-7

6Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:
7That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

1 Peter 1:18-19

18Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;
19But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:

1 Peter 2:7-8

7Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner,
8And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.

1 Peter 4:12-13

12Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:
13But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.

Peter, the precious preacher, was talking about value, not the lovey-dovey sense of the word. Jesus is precious, His blood is precious, our saving faith is precious. These are very valuable.

Romans 8:28And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

1. They prepare us to comfort others

* Sin and quitting keep miracles away
* It takes a battle to have victory
* Don't worry when you suffer
* You will be able to help others because sufferers make the best comforters

2. They bring us to the end of ourselves

* Phil 4:11 was written in a jail cell
* You don't learn contentment unless in the valley
* Trials make us humble, make us lean on Him, show our weaknesses

3. They keep us close to Him

* We have to look to Him for strength because our own will run out
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This helps me to keep things in the right view. Every person has gone through something. I know I have. We shouldn't want to have nothing to ever go wrong in our lives because then there would be no growth spiritually. I know that all too often I have tried to hold things on my own. Didn't work well, that's for sure.

It was a good message.

Well, I gave in and went to urgent care. I find out that I have Bronchitus, Sinititus, and my Asthma is acting up. Now I am on antibiotics and steroids. Fun stuff, huh?

I've not been feeling well the last couple of days. Not. I thought about stopping at Urgent Care on my way home from work, but I was feeling better than I was this morning so I didn't. We'll see how tomorrow goes. I plan on getting my taxes done tomorrow after work.

Me and Carol







Baggii (from Mongolia)




Nate using the walker/skater thing. When I took the pic, he said "Oh no!!! That's blackmail material!" And so it is!





Me attempting to race







Me using the walker thingy. That was the fastest I went around the rink!




Abby, Johanna, and Lindsey






Me on a horse and carriage ride






The boys waiting for the carriage ride. They looked so cute in their old fashioned garb.





Carol and I






Annette (Netters)

I am beyond tired right now. I want to sleep some more, but I have to be at work at 8:45 to set up the kids' snack and then make lunch and clean it up. Then I have class. I can possibly have a chance to study the back of my eyelids after that (and then go to my other job). That's what happens when you have two big bills to pay off. So, the story of my life right now is work, work, work.
I think I am one of those "jack of all trades, master of nothing" people. My job title(s) show that a bit: cook, pre-school teacher, janitor, student. I don't thin I've mastered any of those!
Here's something from last night's message: When you say no to God, you are in dangerous territory.
After work last night, old time radio was on and we turned it on in the middle of a program and these comments made us laugh: Man 1: You just contridicted yourself! Man 2: Who else is better qualified to do that?
Well, here are a few more pics to enjoy!

Stand by your (tin) man... Abby

The only pic of me at Shipshawana

Abby and Jael while we were at Shipshawana (Look out Abby! She's going to cut your hair!)

Jael on the butcher's block...and Abby's behind the knife?!?!?!?!

My girls in their pretty, old fashioned dresses

I am beat! I haven't been getting enough sleep and today wiped me out since I had to go all the way out to Valpo to do shopping errands for the day care. Man, that was a lot of food! I was worried it wouldn't all fit in my car (and I pretty much drive a tank: an 83 Olds Delta 88 Royale).

Ah, yes, more kiddies.






"I do nothing wrong, ever. Honest" One of my day care kids.








Glenn and I at the ice skating rink








Abby and I







Glenn goofing off for the camera

SNOWCONES!!!! That's what Glenn and I made!

A praise to share

I was needing more hours at the day care and now I have them. I am now considered full time. I will be the in the mornings and a pre-school teacher in the afternoon. I did the cook work yesterday and it was very easy compared to the college kitchen working I did. Cooking for the kids is a snap.
I got a little bonus yesterday as well as today since parents were late picking up their kids. It's nice to get a little extra every now and then.

Another day, another year...

A little more about last night

I wanted to post a little more on the deer incident from last night. We were heading to work along a road we take 3 times a week. We never saw a deer out that way before. It hit the driver side headlight, breaking the plastic covering then it hit the hood of the car denting it pretty good, hit my side of the windshield (passenger side) bending a wiper and the antenna, and finally slid over the top of the car but also denting it a little bit. It was very scary and we were a little bit shaken by what had happened. It was Betty's biggest fear to hit a deer (another girl's car was totaled during the summer after hitting a deer).

It's crazy that the mind goes into the "what if" mode after something like that happens. I was reading a book since there was some daylight left and my first reaction was to cover my face with the book (like it would stop the blow of an animal flying through the window). What if it did break the window? Would it have broken my neck?

Praise the Lord that nothing really bad happened. I was trying hard to shut off the "what if" mode last night. I had weird dreams last night, but none of them had anything to do with hitting a deer! God Bless, everyone!

Last Night

Have you thanked the Lord today? If not, you should.

He has given much safety to and from work. Tonight, we hit a deer. Praise the Lord that it only did cosmetic damage to Betty's car and nothing more. We were both pretty shaken with the incident. A lot of things have been going on, especially this week. Last Friday was the funny incident with driving in the snow, yesterday I helped carry a girl to a waiting van to take ker to the ER due to her massive headache and almost daily passing out, I helped another girl after I got off of work when she got up in the middle of the night (I had gotten home from work) and she threw up in the hallway, helped her to the bathroom and then back to her room and then cleaned up the mess before I went to bed and then the deer incident. *sigh* I am thankful I serve a living God and He knows what I can handle.

Here's something the Lord has been working in me: Contentment with being single.

It seems like everyone around has that "special someone" and all I ever get to do is sit back and watch or be ignored by those who are my friends.

At this very moment, I enjoy being single. I love the freedom I have, that I don't have to report to anyone, have set dates, that I can talk to any guy I want to, that I don't have to feel like I am in an exclusive relationship. I like the friends that I have. I have enjoyed them so much this year. I don't have to worry about being late for a date or that I forgot to put some make up on, or that I have a huge zit. All of that does not matter as much as my relationship with God. That is more important to me.

There are many aspects that should be considered before even entering a relationship: Are the same standards upheld? Are the fundamental doctrines agreed upon? Are the "little things" overcomeable?

2 Corinthians 6:14Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?

I do not think the Lord has brought that "one" into my life as of yet. There are not any guys I would consider dating here at college anyway. plus, I am too busy to date. Working two jobs and taking a class will keep a person very busy. I'm lucky to get a couple of phone calls to home during the week.
_____________________________________________________________
The service was very good tonight. It was about "Has the Lord Provided for You?"
Ref. Gen 22:1-14; Heb. 11:17-18

Genesis 22
1And it came to pass after these things, that God did tempt Abraham, and said unto him, Abraham: and he said, Behold, here I am.

2And he said, Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of.

3And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and saddled his ass, and took two of his young men with him, and Isaac his son, and clave the wood for the burnt offering, and rose up, and went unto the place of which God had told him.

4Then on the third day Abraham lifted up his eyes, and saw the place afar off.

5And Abraham said unto his young men, Abide ye here with the ass; and I and the lad will go yonder and worship, and come again to you.

6And Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering, and laid it upon Isaac his son; and he took the fire in his hand, and a knife; and they went both of them together.

7And Isaac spake unto Abraham his father, and said, My father: and he said, Here am I, my son. And he said, Behold the fire and the wood: but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?

8And Abraham said, My son, God will provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering: so they went both of them together.

9And they came to the place which God had told him of; and Abraham built an altar there, and laid the wood in order, and bound Isaac his son, and laid him on the altar upon the wood.

10And Abraham stretched forth his hand, and took the knife to slay his son.

11And the angel of the LORD called unto him out of heaven, and said, Abraham, Abraham: and he said, Here am I.

12And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me.

13And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold behind him a ram caught in a thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son.

14And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovahjireh: as it is said to this day, In the mount of the LORD it shall be seen.

Hebrews 11:17-19

17By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son,

18Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called:

19Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure.

There are 4 requirements to see God provide:

1) Fulfill God's command
2) Forsake family ties
3) Forfeit your aspirations and dreams
4) Follow through to the end

Abraham passed the test and God provided for Him.

There was an illustration about a ship that sank and there was a young boy who survived by sitting on a rock all night. When asked if he trembled, he said, "I surely did tremble, but the rock did not."

I survived!

I came through Betty's winter snowstorm driving unscathed but a little muddy.

Betty is not the world's greatest driver. In fact, this is only her second winter with her license. Scary, I know. She is also quite spastic, especially in certain predicaments. I have accompanied a few driving "firsts" of hers: getting pulled over, backing into a pole, and last night's incident. Here's the story:

We left for our cleaning jobs and it had only been raining. When we arrived at our 3rd account for the night, we were informed of an incoming snowstorm (at that moment, it was still about 2 hours away). We weren't too worried since it usually takes us an hour and a half or so to clean. By the time we finished, it was already snowing, but not too bad, or so it seemed. By the time we made it out to the main drag which would get us home, the snow was falling heavily and visibility was just plain awful. The lines on the road were not even visible due to the accumulation of snow already. She is complaining about the conditions. I watched the snow falling and it was really interesting. We were going into the wind so the snow was coming at us as we went and it looked almost like we were in a sci-fi vortex or something. It was neat. The driver side wiper was not working too well and was leaving the bottom of the windshield as if it hadn't even been touched. Not good for Betty. The road we were on was a divided (mostly by a grassy area) highway with two lanes on each side. As I was looking around, I noticed that we were going to go off the road on the left hand side. "We're going off the road," I said to Betty. She then, thinking we were going off on the right side, jerked the car to the left, into the grassy, muddy median, and thus, getting us stuck. It was a disgusting mess. Betty freaked out. I told her that everything was ok and that she should laugh because it was kind of funny. She laughed, a little. She wanted to call AAA, but I told her we would be waiting for hours if she did that. I then called our dorm mom. She was going to send our dorm dad out to get us. I was not able to give her a definite location of where we were other that off of 49 in the median stuck. I gave her the general whereabouts of out location. In the meantime, there were a few good Samaritans willing to help us. Quite a few folks stopped (and it was 11:30 or 12:00 at night). Not many were able to do much. This guy pulls up and says he has a chain and then tries to locate a spot on the car to hook it up to, but to no avail. Any place he could try to hook it up to would damage the car while pulling it out. Betty is still upset. A police officer only offered to call a tow truck. We denied that offer since Betty could call AAA. Then, this other guy pulls up. He says that he owns his own towing company and had a j-hook chain and a tow rope. He hooks it up and pulls us out. AMEN! We thank him and then call our dorm dad to inform him that someone else was able to get us out. He said ok. The rest of the way home, Betty goes 20 mph and I was her passenger seat driver (not like I never was before ) and I told her if she needed to move left or right. When I told her to go right a little, she said, "Which right?" "The only right there is, Betty," I replied laughing and shaking my head. The only plow out was the one behind us. Sheesh. When we got to our last intersection where we would be turning left, some person passed us on the leftand honked at us like we were doing something wrong. Some people! The Lord kept us safe and in one piece as well as the car. All it needs is a bath!

What a night! And I lived through it to share with others the hazards of Betty's driving skills!

***Disclaimer: Betty knows I joke around a lot and that is what got her through the incident. I by no means intend to hurt her reputation by this blog and she knows I was going to blog about it. I just wanted to do it in my humorous way. ***

God is so good to us. We could have gotten hurt or possibly have spun out or even get into an accident with another vehicle.

Psalm 8:4What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him?

Psalm 144:3LORD, what is man, that thou takest knowledge of him! or the son of man, that thou makest account of him!

Psalm 68:19Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah.

Hebrews 13:2Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

Graduate Update Dec 05-Jan 06

Hello one and all!

It has been a long time since I have sent out an update, so here it comes!
It is official! I am a college graduate! I have finished my course requirements for the Elementary Education degree as of December 2005. So, what am I doing now? I had already planned on staying near the college to keep working at my cleaning job to pay off as much as I can on my college bills. I had also planned on getting a second job. Well, I wanted to get an apartment, but that did not work out, so I am taking one class and staying in the dorm. I had to pray and think long and hard about that decision. I was very ready to be out of the dorm and into my own place. It is working out for the better for me to stay in the dorm because the cost includes room and board.

Before I left to go home for Christmas break, I did some job hunting in Chesterton. I wanted a job close to the school due to the fact that my car is a gas guzzler. Well, I had an interview at a local day care a couple days before I left. I was hired! I am now a pre-school teacher at Wee Care Child Development Center. I am only part time, but it sure does help. I am also able to pick up more hours every now and then. So, that is another blessing!

I enjoyed being home with my family as well as my church family for the week I made it home. Christmas was great because not only it is the time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, but that my whole family attended church with me Christmas morning. It is the first time that has happened in all my years. It was the best Christmas gift I received. I even got to see my Uncle Roger in whom I had not been able to see during my previous visits home. I spent some time with my parents and some one on one time with Nessa and AJ and I even went out with a couple of girls from college who live near me (in Ypsi).

I still enjoy being involved in the ministry here. I really love working with my 1st grade girls in Master Clubs. They keep things interesting. I have been going bus visiting with my friend Carol for well over a year now every Saturday. Just recently, there have been some changes on the route, but I think the transition will be pretty smooth. It is so neat to see the children growing up, especially those who I have had in the 0-6 month nursery. I have been in there for almost 4 years now (I guess I haven't aged enough to be promoted...lol! j/k). I just can't believe how quickly they grow, but I truly enjoy taking care of those babies.

I am looking forward to April because it is not only Preaching Conference, but I may have some teaching interviews during that time. I would like to be teaching at an academy for the 06-07 school year, but that is entirely in the Lord's hands. I want to be where He wants me to be. As of right now, I plan on staying in Indiana until at least July 28, 2006. My friend Carol is getting married then and I am in her wedding as a bridesmaid. I may be taking a trip to Ohio for another wedding in June, but I'm not quite sure yet. This wedding is for my co-worker (and fellow classmate). Other than that, I have no other plans than just to work and do well in the one class that I am taking.

I can not believe how fast college has went by! It was even faster than high school! I will be walking with my senior class in May. More information to come on that later. I would love to hear how everyone else is doing. You can email or even snail-mail me if you would like. Have a great day!


God Bless,
~ Nicole Stiers

Sorry about not updating lately. I've been busy with work and a little bit of school. I have got to get to class right ow, so I will try to update again later. Have a blessed day!

Time has flown by....

Its hard to believe that almost 23 years has passed since I was born.






My mom and I.



















My mom and I again.
















My Uncle Roger and I.














Grandma, Aunt Sharon, me, and Nessa.













Mom, Dad, Aunt Sharon, me, and Nessa.












Mom, Dad, and I.















Grandma, Mom, and I.












Mom, Dad, and I.












Mom and I.














Nessa and I at her graduation in '04
















Us kids going what we liked best!




















My senior pic from high school
























Me today

I played hockey with the girls Wednesday. It was fun. I did get a bruises, but not like some of the others!
I can't believe I'm even considering this, but I may be doing another 5K come June. What has gotten into me?!?!?!?! I need to start training soon if I want to be ready. I haven't even thought of running/jogging since I did that other 5K in September (plus, with student teaching, I didn't really have the time). This 5K I'll be training for finishes on the 50 yard line at Notre Dame. Neat, huh?
I actually have my first class this Friday afternoon. I think I will enjoy it and it may motivate me to do a little more in the mornings. I have been sleeping too much. Most would say I need it.
When I got back to the dorm after Christmas break, there was a pile of mail for me in my room. Amonst the pile was an envelope that said "The Enegizer Bunny". At first, I had no clue who it was from. Turns out, it was a thank you card from my dorm mom. She has a funny sense of humor. I guess during Monday night Devos (I do not get to go to dorm devos b/c of work) she said that the Enegizer Bunny was doing some pleasure reading. I have heard this through other girls who get to go to devos.
Well, enough for now folks. Have a blessed day!

The day care has been pretty fun for the most part. All those kids...
I am being trained in the various areas. Yesterday and today I was trained in the "nap room". I watched 14 kids nap/rest. It wasn't too bad. Last week I was trained on closing.

I am really thankful for this job. I may not get as many hours as I wanted, but it does leave me time to spend more time with God, read books, catch up on sleep (which I did today), play hockey with my friends, and even get ahead on school work. I really enjoy it.

A Life: a poem by me

A Life

A life so wonderfully, graciously given
A life beyond what thought can achieve
A life bound for a perfect Heaven
If only I can such a life believe.

A life not of lazy, hazy days
A life but more full and free
A life through turmoil and dark haze
If only such a life can be for me.

A life of overflowing joy and happiness
A life full of love unknown
A life in which I've made such a mess
If only my life in You I've grown.

A life, my life, as I have deemed it
A life I've thought to please myself
A life, my life, I've dug a pit
If only my life You do not shelf.

A life given wholly to You
A life much greater it shall be
A life, Lord, a work please do
If only my life I give unto thee.

All right... I'll give a little more insight about my spiritual renovations. So many times I have tried and failed at drawing closer to God. Somtimes it feels as if it just a ritual of sorts (and I know its not, its a relationship). I have the head knowledge, but the heart knowledge takes a while to follow suit. I had the change to do some pleasure reading and it was very though provoking. Ususally, the fiction books are not quite so, but this one was. I am not going to outline the book. If you want to know more about it, read it. It just made me think about my walk with the Lord and how far I have gotten form Him. There is a maturity level that needs to be reached and I feel like I have not made yet. It seems so far off. I serve an awesome God and He will be working on me, that I am sure. I have more time in the mornings due to not having any classes til Friday afternoon, so I want to utilize that time to the best of my ability. If you could, please pray that the Lord accomplishes His work in me (well, the work that needs to be done at this time, because He will never be done working on me!). It is such a wonderful feeling to know that my God is a living God and wants, desires a relationship with me. I wrote a poem, but that will have to be posted at a later time (possibly in the next couple of days).
Little is much, when God is in it

Going through some spitiual renovations...I'll update more later. Please pray with me.

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year to everyone!
God Bless!

Blast from the past

My mom and I when I was a baby.
I love being able to use a scanner!

Christmas Banquet 2005

Seniors 2006

Me and my girls

Go Wings!

Abby, Nicole, Jael

Student Teachers Unite!

Back- Nicole, Carol, Andrea, Jael
Front- Amy, Renee

WE MADE IT!!!!!

Reflections

I have really enjoyed being home. I needed that refreshing, seeing the folks that have helped me grow spiritually and who have spent so much time praying for me. I know people have put in hours on me. Quite possibly people I do not even know. I am very grateful. Yet, I feel as if I have fallen so short of the mark of service for God. I am nothing good. I am dirty, rotten, no good, sinful flesh. I have failed so many times. Psalm 34:19 say "Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all." I am thankful that the Lord already knows that I will fail, that I have and will sin, that He forgives and will guide me in His way if I let Him.
This evenings service was what was needed by many, especially me. Mr. Johnson spoke on how (generally) Christians do not thank God for all of HIs goodness. I am afraid that I fall into this category. I am very ashamed of this. God has given me SO much, but I, unfortunately, take much of it for granted. Psalm 107:8 says "Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men." The trials are for testing and purification. I know this, but I don't. I often question and doubt God on what He is doing in my life. It is something I need to work on.
I want to do the right thing, the Lord's will for my life. I do desire that. I also know that I have much to work on. I know this can't happen over night, but that it is a process, even a work in progress. The Lord knows my heart.
I am reminded of the song "Count Your Blessings." They are too numerable, but here are some":
Jesus Christ dying on the cross
The blood of calvary
redemption
forgiveness
the virgin birth
the Holy Bible (KJV)
WBC
FBC
Mom
Dad
Nessa
AJ
Logan
Laura
Lucas
My education
college staff
my pastor
the many folks who have and are praying for me
my extended family
all the friends I have made
justification
saving grace
Christ's humility
Christ's compassion
being an American
my salvation

This is not a complete list because "daily he loadeth us with benefits."
The Lord has been so good to me. How have I been to Him?

MERRY CHRISTmas everyone! I hope you and yours had a great one!

MERRY CHRISTmas everyone! I hope you and yours had a great one!

My CHRISTmas was a bit different this year. I made it home on CHRISTmas Eve morning in time to go bus visiting with my church. I took my brother along as well. Quite a few kids said that they were going to go to church, which was such a blessing since it was going to be CHRISTmas morning. I also told my brother that I was going to be cutting his later that day because he looked very shaggy. After visiting, I did cut his hair. And he looks much better!
Then I took my brother CHRISTmas shopping since he had not been able to go out before then. I helped him find some stuff for Mom and Dad and showed him exactly what he could get me. We were going to stop at the local Red Apple to eat, but it was closed. I did not want fast food. So, on our way back home, we stopped at Subway (his treat). Then AJ and I went to the CHRISTmas Eve service at church.

We usually visit a family friend on CHRISTmas Eve, but we didn't this year.So, I stopped and visited her after the evening service on Sunday.

On CHRISTmas morning, we all went to church! That was my top CHRISTmas wish, to have my whole family attend church on CHRISTmas morning. What a blessing it was!

After church, we waited for my uncle to get to our house (he's mentally handicapped and lives in a group home). Then we opened our gifts. We all got some good stuff. My mom told me that Dad was tickled to get me a car emergency kit. I've been wanting one of those! It has one of those battery starters that comes in so handy since I often have problems with my battery charging right, although, its been better since Dad got me a bigger battery.

I made my first baby hat last night with this "Knifty Knitter" thing. I am working on number two right now!

All in all, I had a great CHRISTmas. How was yours?

Merry CHRISTmas and Happy New Year! God Bless!

Changes

I got the job!!!!!! I start on the 3rd. God blesses when you do the right thing!

Up and coming...

I will be going to the class party in just a bit. Actually, I want to go in the classroom while the kids are at chapel and get things on their desks. I know I am going to cry! After spending 4 months getting to know these kids, I am done. There have been some srtuggles and disappointments, but overall, it has been a really good semester.
It's kind of interesting to note that when I began college, I started as a missions major. I knew I wouldn't have to teach if I did that. Funny thing is, I had wanted to be a teacher for a long time (well, an elementary music teacher, to be exact). Then, at the end of my freshman year, I switched my major to El. Ed. Everything was going fine until the day I actually had to teach! I was so scared! Now, I am going to miss it so much! These kids grow on you. I have gotten little notes, cards, presents, apples, and art projects from my 3rd and 4th graders. On their last composition chapter, I cried while reading through them, not because they were moving (compare/contrast cats and dogs), but because I was going to miss them so much and miss reading their papers and teaching them. You get to see their personality came out when they write.
Well, I have half an hour before the party starts and I need to run back to the dorm and get their goody bags that I made up for them and to get the other teachers' gifts and some snack stuff.
*sigh*

Student teaching

I am done and I will miss it. It's hard to think I have done it for 4 months and now it is over. I went to my advisory teacher's house last night for dinner and to make peanut butter play-dough for the class party tomorrow. The food was great and the preparation was fun.
I am going to go to the class party. Those kids are so precious to me.

Where I came from 2

Well, I only got up to elementary school in the family section. Now to continue.
I think life with my immediate family will always be the same, unless the Lord does a great and mighty work (and ALL things are possible with God). Screaming, yelling, anger, discontentment, verbal abuse... The list can go on and on.
I want to have a family much different than my own. I want a family that knows what love is, and it is not material possessions. I have so much junk, here and at home. Why? Beats me. I think my dad thinks that possessions are a sign of love or something. It's not. Spending quality time with each other is a better indication of love for others, but that does not mean in front of the TV, computer, or stupid game systems.
Don't get me wrong, I fall prey to these things too.
I do desire to live a life that is pleasing to God. One that makes a difference in peoples' lives. One that's worth living.
In middle school, I struggled with who I was. I got saved at 12, but I sure didn't live like it. I think being saved kept me from going off the deep end. Most of my friends were the Goths of the school and I often dressed as they did. I didn't do it to be rebellious or to stand out from the crowd, I did it to fit into the crowd. I never fully fell into all that. A staff member recently said that they couldn't understand why a teen would want to do dress gothic. I don't know about most of the exteme ones, but many do it to fit in with the others they associate with. Just as the "popular" kids do with the name brand clothes.
Then came a time in my life that turned everything upsidedown. My mom had bouts of sickness and was hospitalized. I thnk it was the second round that almost killed her. She was in a coma-like state 10 days. They wouldn't let me see her. Iwas so upset about that at the time. I think I am glad now that they didn't let me see her. Then, after she was home and getting better, she became pregnant with triplets. WHOA! What a schocker! None of us could believe it at all. They were born 3 months early and weighed: Logan- 1 lb 13 oz, Laura- 1 lb 12 oz, and Lucas- 1 lb 6 oz. They lived 10 days, 15 days,and 2 months 27 days, respectively. That was shattering. I was in the depths of despair. Then, God became real to me. It was still a struggle, though.
High school came and went. I was involved choir at both schools I went to. The second high school is where I started to stray, going along with religious friends, but not Godly friends. I went to church all during this time to my church (Sun morn and eve) but I started going to a Methodist church for youth group. They meant well, but the road to Hell is paved with good intentions. There was no separation, but there was plenty of fun. We were challenged to live a good life, but I dare not say a Godly life because this church used a perverted version of the Bible, let guys and girls touch, and girls wore pants, and all looked worldly. That's how many of churches nowadays get their teens: they let them do whatever they want. Praise God that I have a chuch at home and at college that calls for Biblical standards!
When I graduated high school, I then started looking for a college to attend. The one I am at now did not make my personal "I'll look into it" list. All I gave it was a passing thought. My pastor recconmmeded it to me. I decided to follow his advice. I am glad that I did, now, although there have been plenty of struggles that followed.
I think my entries became disjointed due to the fact that they are written over a couple of months aprt. Oh well.

Where I came from

Most people have no idea who I am. They only think they know. I guess that is partly my fault, though. I don't make it a point to air my life in front of everyone I meet.
I grew up in a home that was constantly on the move... from dwelling to dwelling, that is. There have been at least ten moves my family has made in the last 22 years. Well, what I can remember, anyways. We have lived in a pop-up camper at the fairgrounds to a pretty nice house (where they are at now). But I'm not a nomadic person. I went to 3 elementary school, 2 middle schools, and 2 high schools. The only thing good about it was that it was between only 2 school districts.
Family life...
That'll be a long one and I only have ten minutes to do this until I have to go back and teach art.
We were/are poor in the financial aspects, but pretty spoiled in the possession aspects. I don't know too many other kids who had their own go-carts, mopeds, mini-bikes, and the list goes on and on. Possessions are not what life is about. They do not buy love. I had ALOT of stuff, but not much of a family.
Alcohol and abuse were witnessed in my family. What scars I have, what skeletons are hiding in my closet. Those are things I don't share with others. Most people I know have no idea. Such naivete. Most of the people I know have not seen their dad throw a table at their mom. Most have not been scared to death of getting into an accident because of riding in a vehicle of which a person was under the influence. Most have not stayed at more than one safe-house in their life or been afraid of being taken away from the family they do know (by the social services). I have been to see school counselors while elementary school.
So much is involved in my life.
Where I am at NOW
Bible college
adult life
moving on

I'll have to finish later...gotta go...

Letting off some steam...

I want to post a "real" entry, but there's not enough time to do that right now.
For me, things are going pretty well. The candy sale is over and I will be getting back on my normal schedule of things (with teaching, that is). Empowered Youth is coming up quick and now I have to find the time to do my White Glove duties. I think I can get it done on Wednesday. I have three bulletin boards due Monday as well as a motivational idea.
Have you ever dealt with someone who asks for your advice and when you give it to them, they go to someone else because they didn't like what you said? I'm tired of dealing with people like that. Some of the people I go to school with have changed so much. I don't talk to those I used to. I don't want to. Too many have gotten to that "me first" stage in their adult life and they are driving me nuts! There was one girl I was getting to be better friends with, but now that she is student teaching, the friendship is gone. She has become a snot to me. So, now, I don't even bother trying to sit by her or even talk to her anymore. Is that wrong of me? I just don't want to deal with it any more.
I can't wait to be done with school. I'm tired of being the student. Only 49 days to go...
There is another person I deal quite often who wants to have ongoing pity parties and "woe is me". She didn't like what I told her. Oh well. Granted, she has had a lot of stuff go on in her life the last couple of months, but doesn't everybod else?

Collegiate Update: September

What a month this has been! The end of August was Teacher Orientation and that was interesting. We heard about the following topics: Interpersonal Relationships, The Time of Biblical Child-rearing, Forgiveness, “Hear Ye the Rod”, The Truth: Understanding and Application, and Training a Child. The one I enjoyed the most was the one on training a child. Mr. Olson (missionary to Zambia, Africa) went over the preparation, plan, procedure, practice, persuasion, and perseverance of training. It was a very insightful lecture.Then we started to observe the class(es) we would be teaching in a matter of a few weeks. The end of that first observation week brought along the college orientation. There were a number of activities that were offered (last minute shopping trip to WalMart for those last minute items that happened to be left behind or just plain forgotten. I think the next activity was a trip to the park to play some softball. I was not able to attend either of these due to work and that my work partner ended up in the hospital for a week due to a flare-up of a childhood disease. She was in there for almost a week and is doing much better now. The actual day of orientation had two activities to choose from in the afternoon: softball at the park or hiking at the dunes. I chose the latter and had a great time. It was a three-mile hike. Labor Day was the first actual college activity at the Blueberry Festival in Plymouth, IN. It was this day that I ran in the 5K race. Let me just say, I did not run to win anything, but rather, to finish. And finish I did! I was last in my age bracket, but I did finish the race. I can say I was not the last person to finish the 5K, so I wasn’t the very last person! Check out: http://www.doitsports.com/newresults3/gruplus-search.tcl?event_id=11645&sub_event_id=36473&event_name=Blueberry+Stomp&public_name=5K&historic_event_date=2005%2d09%2d05&event_year=2005&chiptime_p=t&chipown_p=t&country_p=f&class_p=t&event_p=t and type either my name or bib# 168.Then I changed and walked around the fair with some friends. Now the teaching adventure begins (and will continue until December 16). The first week wasn’t that bad, but it wasn’t the smoothest either. I started teaching 4th grade English and it wasn’t until Friday that I felt I did an OK job. I had a lot of fun that day teaching the kids how to use a thesaurus. I think the kids liked it, too! That’s the best part!Last week was my second week teaching and I took on 4th grade Math (and I still taught English). Last week was rough. Math is not my favorite subject. I ended up with a B- for the week (it was higher than I thought I was going to get). I did do a better job today with it. This week I am taking on Art and Library. I did my sample art project this afternoon and I think the kids will enjoy it. They will be doing leaf rubbings with paper and crayons. I’ve kind of helped with the library responsibilities already, so that won’t be a shock. The academy is getting ready to start their fall Candy Sale. I have been recruited for at least two days. I will only have to teach 3 days a week for 4 weeks and then its back to the regular schedule. I will have to watch the library for one day during the sale as it is a student teacher’s job. There are eight days of the students working on packets during the sale and there are eight student teachers. So that works out well. I’ve got to head off to work and then study my lesson plans, so until the next edition of your favorite email Collegiate Update, I’m signing off!God Bless,Nicole

New Week, New Beginning

This week didn't start well at all...:(
I ended one class early and went late in the other. I don't think I like having to teach two subjects in a row quite yet. This is one big class load.

A bright spot in my day was when the mail arrived. I got a care package from my church and a letter from a church member. That was really nice.

I need to go and prepare for tomorrow...

Week one...end

Today went well... :)

Rounds one and two...

Well, yesterday went ok, I guess. I got a B. I didn't have to teach until 1:35, so I wasn't too nervous at noon. We went over compound sentences.

Today did not go well at all for me. I'm very disappointed in myself. I don't even know all of the material, but I have to teach it. The public school didn't help me very much in the english grammar part of education. :(

The race is on!

I participated in a 5K race a week ago. How did I do? I finished! Check ou this site: http://www.doitsports.com/newresults3/gruplus-search.tcl?event_id=11645&sub_event_id=36473&event_name=Blueberry+Stomp&public_name=5K&historic_event_date=2005%2d09%2d05&event_year=2005&chiptime_p=t&chipown_p=t&country_p=f&class_p=t&event_p=t
and type in either my name or bib # 168. Then you can view my results. I DID NOT enter this race to win anything, but to do it to say "I ran a 5K race at least once in my life."

I start teaching tomorrow. Am I shaking in my boots yet. That would still be a "nope". Maybe at noon tomorrow...

On to interesting kids news:
One of our students has been writing another name on his paper and when he was asked about it, he said his dad changed it a couple of days ago (he didn't, but it is a joke in their house and the boy really believes it!)

Fill in the blank....
There are a couple of boys who do not really like each other in the classroom and one of the papers I graded had a fill in the blank (______ fell into the mud). Can you guess what was inserted in that blank by one of the boys?

This is going to be an interesting year for sure...

College Orientation

I made it through orientation on 4 1/2 hours of sleep. I got up at 5am to run the lake, had my devotions, got ready for the college breakfast, went to breakfast (staff introduce themselves, we ate, then the students introduced themselves), had a split session, chapel, then went over the handbook/ministires/academics/finances. Then had to sit through the Americall presentation. We were then dismissed for lunch at the pavillion. Good cheeseburgers! I left after I ate to check my email, pick up my math papers that need to be graded, and plan on taking a nap before I have to go to work. Busy day.