Smash and Pass
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
I am at a loss right now. What do you do with a person who frustrates you to no end with their apathetic attitude about life? I am currently in this situation. As this person is a friend of mine, I love her and I want to see her get back on track, but all she wants to do is wallow in self pity and then sleep her problems into oblivion all day long. I have tried to keep her busy and moving, but I'm tired of being her drill sergeant. She needs to take the initiative to do something. She's shirking life and that's not good. She's shirking God in the process.
Acts 24:16
And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void to offence toward God, and toward men
I want to help, but she has to help herself first. I can't force her to get things right with God. I did have to tell on her about something else and I felt terrible, but I knew I couldn't keep it to myself. Too bad I didn't do it with the first thing. I know, this is probably a rather confusing post. I have to be general, but I like getting my thoughts down. I'm praying for her, encouraging her, but I don't think anything is getting through right now. She doesn't want it to get through.Please pray for me to have wisdom in this. It's not like I can avoid her (not that I'd want to) because we live together in the dorm and then we work together as well. ***sigh***
On a lighter note, I went to see some fireworks last night. They were decent. I did meet up with a friend and her family and then had lunch at her house this afternoon. From my understanding, there is a small festival-type thing in town every Fourth of July. This was my third year attending and my first one without it being considered a "college activity" and being required to stay in large groups. I think I enjoyed much better this year than the past two just because it wasn't with the college.
I spoke with one of the girls I will be living with when I move to Virginia. She seemed very nice. She let me know which things I would need to bring and other stuff not to worry about. All I have to worry about is my bedroom furniture. I'm thinking about looking for a loft bed, a mattress, a desk, a dresser, and a night stand. I was told my room is a 10'x 12' and I have a closet! Ok, I'm excited about having a "real" closet. The closet in the dorm is not really what one would think of as a closet and then I did not have one at the house I lived at before I left for college (it was a metal box, more or less, and it was my dad's). The only thing is, I need to find these items after I get to VA. That might pose a small problem. I registered on the local FreeCycle and I was just informed of CraigsList today. I'll be checking that as well. I'll be praying the Lord provides because I do not have the means of buying those items (well, not at store price, but at a yard sale price, possibly). I was also informed that it would be wise to have an AC window unit for my room. I think my dad can get me one of these fairly easily.
Well, I must get going. I have to work in a little bit. I actually have extra to do tonight. My boss called me asking if I could do a favor. The guy who usually does the service floor of the dealership we clean (my roomie and I clean the showroom) is not able to make it out tonight since his car can not be picked up from the shop until tomorrow and his rental ended today. I did give him a call and he told me all I would need to worry about is the trash. Not too bad, I think. I did agree to do it. My boss told me to do it while I am already going to be there (between 9:30 and 12:00) instead of making a separate trip at 2:30 in the morning.
I do hope all you had a great day yesterday as well as today.
God Bless.
Acts 24:16
And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void to offence toward God, and toward men
I want to help, but she has to help herself first. I can't force her to get things right with God. I did have to tell on her about something else and I felt terrible, but I knew I couldn't keep it to myself. Too bad I didn't do it with the first thing. I know, this is probably a rather confusing post. I have to be general, but I like getting my thoughts down. I'm praying for her, encouraging her, but I don't think anything is getting through right now. She doesn't want it to get through.Please pray for me to have wisdom in this. It's not like I can avoid her (not that I'd want to) because we live together in the dorm and then we work together as well. ***sigh***
On a lighter note, I went to see some fireworks last night. They were decent. I did meet up with a friend and her family and then had lunch at her house this afternoon. From my understanding, there is a small festival-type thing in town every Fourth of July. This was my third year attending and my first one without it being considered a "college activity" and being required to stay in large groups. I think I enjoyed much better this year than the past two just because it wasn't with the college.
I spoke with one of the girls I will be living with when I move to Virginia. She seemed very nice. She let me know which things I would need to bring and other stuff not to worry about. All I have to worry about is my bedroom furniture. I'm thinking about looking for a loft bed, a mattress, a desk, a dresser, and a night stand. I was told my room is a 10'x 12' and I have a closet! Ok, I'm excited about having a "real" closet. The closet in the dorm is not really what one would think of as a closet and then I did not have one at the house I lived at before I left for college (it was a metal box, more or less, and it was my dad's). The only thing is, I need to find these items after I get to VA. That might pose a small problem. I registered on the local FreeCycle and I was just informed of CraigsList today. I'll be checking that as well. I'll be praying the Lord provides because I do not have the means of buying those items (well, not at store price, but at a yard sale price, possibly). I was also informed that it would be wise to have an AC window unit for my room. I think my dad can get me one of these fairly easily.
Well, I must get going. I have to work in a little bit. I actually have extra to do tonight. My boss called me asking if I could do a favor. The guy who usually does the service floor of the dealership we clean (my roomie and I clean the showroom) is not able to make it out tonight since his car can not be picked up from the shop until tomorrow and his rental ended today. I did give him a call and he told me all I would need to worry about is the trash. Not too bad, I think. I did agree to do it. My boss told me to do it while I am already going to be there (between 9:30 and 12:00) instead of making a separate trip at 2:30 in the morning.
I do hope all you had a great day yesterday as well as today.
God Bless.
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Doc read this in Sunday School this past Sunday and I wanted to share it with you if you have not heard it already:
Lt. Tom Cotton writes this morning from Baghdad with a word for the New York Times:
Dear Messrs. Keller, Lichtblau & Risen:
Congratulations on disclosing our government's highly classified anti-terrorist-financing program (June 23). I apologize for not writing sooner. But I am a lieutenant in the United States Army and I spent the last four days patrolling one of the more dangerous areas in Iraq. (Alas, operational security and common sense prevent me from even revealing this unclassified location in a private medium like email.)
Unfortunately, as I supervised my soldiers late one night, I heard a booming explosion several miles away. I learned a few hours later that a powerful roadside bomb killed one soldier and severely injured another from my 130-man company. I deeply hope that we can find and kill or capture the terrorists responsible for that bomb. But, of course, these terrorists do not spring from the soil like Plato's guardians. No, they require financing to obtain mortars and artillery shells, priming explosives, wiring and circuitry, not to mention for training and payments to locals willing to emplace bombs in exchange for a few months' salary. As your story states, the program was legal, briefed to Congress, supported in the government and financial industry, and very successful.
Not anymore. You may think you have done a public service, but you have gravely endangered the lives of my soldiers and all other soldiers and innocent Iraqis here. Next time I hear that familiar explosion -- or next time I feel it -- I will wonder whether we could have stopped that bomb had you not instructed terrorists how to evade our financial surveillance.
And, by the way, having graduated from Harvard Law and practiced with a federal appellate judge and two Washington law firms before becoming an infantry officer, I am well-versed in the espionage laws relevant to this story and others -- laws you have plainly violated. I hope that my colleagues at the Department of Justice match the courage of my soldiers here and prosecute you and your newspaper to the fullest extent of the law. By the time we return home, maybe you will be in your rightful place: not at the Pulitzer announcements, but behind bars.
Very truly yours,
Tom Cotton
Baghdad, Iraq
__________________________________
Happy Fouth of July!
Sunday, July 02, 2006
With two year old girls, there is never a dull moment.
I go in the junior church class after choir is dismissed. Well, everything started out normal...As bathroom break began, we smelled something really rank. It had to have been one of the diapered kids. I look around and then spotted her (Alexia): covered in poop! EWWW!!! On her hands, legs, shoes, and outfit. GROSS! She smeared it on one of the chairs. I grabbed her arms and held them away from her and everything else while another lady went around trying to get up the poop from the carpet. The other two ladies were taking the non-diapered kids to the bathroom. When they returned, one of those ladies and I took Alexia to the bathroom and cleaned her up and changed her clothes. The we realized: her diaper was not messy or even wet for that matter. She was not our culprit! She was a victim!The culprit was found out (Inky...well, that is what we people at church/on bus call her since her family calls her Stinky...I wonder why...). Inky was sent to church (she is a bus kid) without wearing a diaper. She is not potty trained. That is recipe for disaster!
I'll be helping in the library later for the summer reading program for the kids. That'll be fun.
My mom called me yesterday and left a message on my VM. She told me Golden Homes Health Care Agency called for me. Did they not realize that the application they had was at least 5 years old? I put in the app when I graduated high school. I did one small job for them and they didn't call me for another one for 5-6 months. Then they try to call 5 years later like I'm sitting around at home waiting for them? lol... That's funny! My mom wanted to provide me with a laugh and that worked! We did laugh about it. I guess it's good to know they still have my app on file...I guess.
I go in the junior church class after choir is dismissed. Well, everything started out normal...As bathroom break began, we smelled something really rank. It had to have been one of the diapered kids. I look around and then spotted her (Alexia): covered in poop! EWWW!!! On her hands, legs, shoes, and outfit. GROSS! She smeared it on one of the chairs. I grabbed her arms and held them away from her and everything else while another lady went around trying to get up the poop from the carpet. The other two ladies were taking the non-diapered kids to the bathroom. When they returned, one of those ladies and I took Alexia to the bathroom and cleaned her up and changed her clothes. The we realized: her diaper was not messy or even wet for that matter. She was not our culprit! She was a victim!The culprit was found out (Inky...well, that is what we people at church/on bus call her since her family calls her Stinky...I wonder why...). Inky was sent to church (she is a bus kid) without wearing a diaper. She is not potty trained. That is recipe for disaster!
I'll be helping in the library later for the summer reading program for the kids. That'll be fun.
My mom called me yesterday and left a message on my VM. She told me Golden Homes Health Care Agency called for me. Did they not realize that the application they had was at least 5 years old? I put in the app when I graduated high school. I did one small job for them and they didn't call me for another one for 5-6 months. Then they try to call 5 years later like I'm sitting around at home waiting for them? lol... That's funny! My mom wanted to provide me with a laugh and that worked! We did laugh about it. I guess it's good to know they still have my app on file...I guess.
Friday, June 30, 2006
Please pray for a friend of mine. She is going through a terrible trial. Please pray that I can be an encouragement to her during this time.
______________________
In a few more weeks I will be heading off to VA. It's coming up quick! I just bought the Bible on tape so I can listen to it during my long drive out there.
Carol is getting married in less than a month! I had someone look at my dress to see if she would be able to alter it. She is able to do it, but there are a few different options to get it done. I've got to talk to Carol about it.
Life changes so quickly.
______________________
In a few more weeks I will be heading off to VA. It's coming up quick! I just bought the Bible on tape so I can listen to it during my long drive out there.
Carol is getting married in less than a month! I had someone look at my dress to see if she would be able to alter it. She is able to do it, but there are a few different options to get it done. I've got to talk to Carol about it.
Life changes so quickly.
Saturday, June 17, 2006
The following is something I posted on my other site Thursday:
Last night was my friend's bridal shower. We had a blast! She was surprised! Well, she knew it was going to be yesterday because a little girl let it slip, but they fooled her about where it was going to be. close to 50 ladies were inside the small apartment. I am so surprised we all fit!
I received a phone call from the administrator of FBS yesterday. Actually, I missed it and then called back. He asked me if I was still interested and I said that I was. The he told me ****drum roll, please**** that they were interested in hiring me! Praise the Lord! I already have a place to stay, too. It's a 3 bedroom townhouse with 2 other single ladies living there. I met one of them and the other one was out town when I was there.
It's almost scary to think that I will actually be a teacher. I will be in charge of my class. I was told that I will be either the second or fourth grade teacher. I kind of would like the second grade, but I did student teach fourth.
Well, enough for now. I've got to get some things done.
___________________________________________
Someone asked me why am I KJV only. I believe it is the preserved text, translated from the Textus Receptus. Modern versions water down the holy Word of God and omit and add whatever they feel like at the moment. Some of these "perversions" deny the virgin birth of Christ.
Matthew 5:18For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.
David Cloud (http://www.wayoflife.org/) and Dr. Waite (http://www.biblefortoday.org/) are excellent sources in defending the King James Bible.
The following is from Dr. Donald Waite’s book Defending the King James Bible:
“The Westcott and Hort Text changes the Textus Receptus in over 5,600 places.“Do you know how many changes they made? My own personal count, as of August 2, 1984, using Scrivener's Greek New Testament referred to above, was 5,604 changes that Westcott and Hort made to the Textus Receptus in their own Greek New Testament text. Of these 5,604 alterations, I found 1,952 to be OMISSIONS (35%), 467 to be ADDITIONS (8%), and 3,185 to be CHANGES (57%). In these 5,604 places that were involved in these alterations, there were 4,366 more words included, making a total of 9,970 Greek words that were involved. This means that in a Greek Text of 647 pages (such as Scrivener's text), this would average 15.4 words per page that were CHANGED from the Received Text. Pastor Jack Moorman counted 140,521 words in the Textus Receptus. These changes would amount to 7% of the words; and 45.9 pages of the Greek New Testament if placed together in one place."
http://www.av1611.org/kjv/kjveasy.html
http://www.biblebelievers.net/BibleVersions/kjckjv1s.htm
Friday, June 09, 2006
My time inVA went by really quickly. I did enjoy my visit. I should be hearing from them in the next week or so regarding a position. This is an exciting, yet scary time in my life.
I am hosting a scrapbook party tomorrow. It'll be fun!
I am to keep a secret for the next week. It will be hard but well worth it. Don't worry! It's not a bad secret!
I am hosting a scrapbook party tomorrow. It'll be fun!
I am to keep a secret for the next week. It will be hard but well worth it. Don't worry! It's not a bad secret!
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
VA, here I come!
I am looking forward to going to VA this weekend. It is coming up really fast, though. I have to teach a lesson for part of my interview. It will be in front of at least 2 staff members, no kids. Yikes! I think that is a bit strange and will be difficult to do, I have been preparing. I was told that I can choose whatever subject I want to teach, but it has to be for the grade I student taught, so 4th grade. Believe it or not, I am going to do a math lesson. Not because I love math (I know I don't!), but because it is easier to teach the concept. Usually, it was 40-45 minutes per class period, but my interview lesson can be 20-30 minutes. I think I will be practicing on my roomie and perhaps my advisory teacher. That should help, I think.
I did call my advisory teacher yesterday. I asked her if I could borrow the math curriculum to look at the lesson plans. She told me that I couldn't borrow the current edition, but she had an older one that I am more than welcome to use. I took the first 80 lesson and will be looking through those today. I'd rather teach something I've done before! I did make my numbers for the board to use in the review drill. I took some post-it notes and glued on some computer printed numbers (size 350 font) and them laminated them. I only did 0-12.
I am going to take some other things with me, if I can. I want to take a visual I made and then some pictures of the bulletin boards I've made just to show them some of my work.
Last night was a long night. Someone went AWOL and we were up til 2:30-3:00 in the morning. She did return safe and sound, but her actions were quite selfish and caused a lot of worry. What a night!
I did call my advisory teacher yesterday. I asked her if I could borrow the math curriculum to look at the lesson plans. She told me that I couldn't borrow the current edition, but she had an older one that I am more than welcome to use. I took the first 80 lesson and will be looking through those today. I'd rather teach something I've done before! I did make my numbers for the board to use in the review drill. I took some post-it notes and glued on some computer printed numbers (size 350 font) and them laminated them. I only did 0-12.
I am going to take some other things with me, if I can. I want to take a visual I made and then some pictures of the bulletin boards I've made just to show them some of my work.
Last night was a long night. Someone went AWOL and we were up til 2:30-3:00 in the morning. She did return safe and sound, but her actions were quite selfish and caused a lot of worry. What a night!
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Pics to share!
My family and I at my graduation
Me and preacher
Me cutting the cake at my open house
Me
Me and my little brother
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Thursday, May 18, 2006
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
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!
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!
Monday, May 01, 2006
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 BekahAlright. 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!
Sunday, April 23, 2006
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
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
Friday, April 21, 2006
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.
Friday, April 14, 2006
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!
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!
Monday, April 10, 2006
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!
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!
Monday, March 27, 2006
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!
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!
Friday, March 17, 2006
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.
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.
Thursday, March 16, 2006
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.
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
Sunday, March 12, 2006
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!
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!
Friday, March 10, 2006
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?
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?
Thursday, March 09, 2006
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.
Friday, March 03, 2006
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!
Well, I must get going. Much to do before I head to work again. Have a blessed day!
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!
Well, I must get going. Much to do before I head to work again. Have a blessed day!
Friday, February 24, 2006
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!
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
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.
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.
Sunday, February 19, 2006
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!
____________
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.
_________________
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.
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.
_________________
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!
Well, not too much going on today.
Have a blessed day!
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
Sunday, February 12, 2006
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
_______
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.
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
_______
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.
Thursday, February 09, 2006
Tuesday, February 07, 2006
Sunday, February 05, 2006
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!
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
Friday, February 03, 2006
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!
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
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.
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.
Monday, January 30, 2006
Sunday, January 29, 2006
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.
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.
Sunday, January 22, 2006
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."
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."
Saturday, January 21, 2006
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.
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.
Friday, January 20, 2006
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
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
Friday, January 13, 2006
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
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!
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!
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
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.
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.
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.
Monday, January 09, 2006
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
Little is much, when God is in it
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)