August 23, 2010
1. New books (well, new to me, anyway) from Half-Price Books
3. Lovely sunsets
4. Seeing Jack Johnson in concert last week
6. New friends
7. An "old" friend moving to town soon
8. Several opportunities to cross things off my Bucket List
9. A long letter from a friend
10. An entire weekend off of work
August 30, 2010
11. Slightly cooler days (which, here in Texas, means highs in the 90s rather than in the 100s)
12. Homemade vanilla bean ice cream, made by my dear friend Sabrina
13. Surviving day-one(ish) of being promoted (despite having little idea what I was doing); along with this, encouragement from friends to allay my fears of failure
14. Long phone conversations with dear friends, sharing both joys and woes and different-yet-the-same dilemmas
15. Goodreads.com and the [re]discovery of so many lovely quotes to be found there
16. The impending visit of a dear friend/pseudo-brother this weekend and the opportunity for a quick phone visit with him today
17. Getting to see the girls from my Bible study again this week, after being scattered throughout the state for the summer
18. Celebrating 9 months today since I moved to Texas!
19. This truth: "But God is the God of the waves and the billows, and they are still His when they come over us; and again and again we have proved that the overwhelming thing does not overwhelm. Once more by His interposition deliverance came. We were cast down, but not destroyed." -- Amy Carmichael
20. Unexpectedly receiving a photo I hadn't seen before of my mom and me in 2007
September 6, 2010
21. Encouraging cards (of both the electronic and the paper variety) fromdear friends, and unexpected but encouraging phone calls
22. Our very own wireless internet at our apartment (no more huddling by the window trying to catch the one non-password-protected network near our building!); seriously, it is a beautiful thing to be able to sit at my desk and type this!
23. French-pressed Anniversary Blend
25. My rearranged (and currently quite clean) room; there's just something therapeutic about changing the layout of my room from time to time (yes, I am strange).
26. Prayers of friends, and their patience with me in all of my emotional ups and downs
27. Surviving (andsurprisinglymostlyenjoying) week one of (sort of) being a shift supervisor at work
28. The anticipation of new-to-me old books coming soon in the mail, wrapped in brown paper and tied with a string (how fun is that!)
29. The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. "The LORD is my portion," says my soul, "therefore I will hope in Him." (Lamentations 3:22-24)
30. 23 years with my wonderful, selfless, giving, loving, amazing, beautiful, godly, incredible mother, who is now in heaven with Jesus
September 13, 2010
31. I watched The Sound of Music last week for the first time since I was a child. Loved the movie growing up, love it even more now!
32. Big powerful thunderstorms.
33. Wonderful time spent assisting my dear chef friend Sabrina make fajitas on a blustery afternoon.
34. My first close as a shift supervisor went way better and more smoothly than I'd expected, thanks to having great coworkers. I cannot express the immense relief of having made it through this "first"!
35. Oatmeal chocolate chip cookie dough
37. A super-cute and sweet card from Birdie
38. Proof that chivalry does still exist.
39. Lots of opportunities this week to bake!
40. For God's "comfort in affliction", and for reminders from several sourcesof how to minister to those who are suffering.
September 20, 2010
41. My wonderful church, and the opportunity to connect with other women and be taught during the semi-quarterly LifeGivers meeting.
42. A surprise gift of flowers from a friend, just to say thank you.
43. A cute card and fun letter from a dear friend.
44. The opportunity to go to my first college football game ever.
45. The fact that God teaches me even through yucky days and miserable failures.
46. The wit and wisdom of Elisabeth Elliot (and her newest-to-me book, which is already one of my favorites).
47. Getting to sleep in today!
48. The Bible study that my "flogos" group is starting to go through on this passage; I am really excited about this!
49. Beautifully expressed words of wisdom from a friend, and the fact that God seems to be teaching both of us the same thing right now.
50. Raspberry peach cobbler.
September 27, 2010
51. Cooler weather (the high today is only 79, and it's a beautiful 58 degrees out at the moment!)
53. That God can and does use even me (yeah, crazy!) to accomplish His purposes for His glory--in spite of my ignorance and ineptitude!
54. Multiple opportunities recently to share the reason for the Hope that is in me
56. Girl time with the lovely Sabrina, Everly, and Birdie which involved chocolate (of course) and finally getting to watch Letters to Juliet again.
57. This book, which Sabrina, Everly, and I used for our summer book study (though summer has turned into fall and we still have a final meeting left).
58. Swinging in the twilight on a cool autumn evening.
59. That I have no guilt in life, no fear in death (this is the power of Christ in me) / From life's first cry to final breath, JESUS COMMANDS MY DESTINY!
60. For my "Texas family", my church, several of my coworkers, my "flogos" Bible study group -- all those God has put in my life who encourage me and challenge me to grow in my faith and in my walk with Him.
October 4, 2010
61. The opportunity to make a quick trip to Houston to have lunch with my dad while he was in town for a business meeting.
62. A wonderful Sunday of fellowship with my Life Group, dear friends, and atchurch.
63. my new Lesley Gore pandora station. I anticipate this being the soundtrack to much future baking.
64. Fun with coworkers painting mugs during our store party.
65. Trying out new recipes!
67. Perfect tea-drinking weather (so far today I've had two cups of Earl Greyand one cup of Vanilla Rooibus...mmm!)
68. Texts from friends, keeping me accountable about spending time in God's Word
69. Julie and Julia movie night with Sabrina, Everly, and Birdie
70. A phone call from my brother in Haiti while he was at Notre Maison; I was able to get an update on "my" baby (she's doing very well and can sit up on her own now!).
October 11, 2010
71. A brother who is not afraid to speak the truth to me in love, even when it's not easy for him to say or for me to hear.
October 11, 2010
71. A brother who is not afraid to speak the truth to me in love, even when it's not easy for him to say or for me to hear.
72. The Gospel, and the reminder that there is never so much as a second in my life when I'm not utterly in need of my Savior.
73. Lots of opportunities this week to bake (and, consequently, a new blog!).
74. That Paul got back safely from Haiti last week.
75. Anticipation of my upcoming trip to Tennessee this weekend (so excited to see friends and family, and for the mountains and all the beautiful fall colors!)
76. That my washing machine is now usable (now just need to get the dryer up and running!)
77. A new candle
78. This month's hymn of the month at my church
79. That my hope is in Christ and that nothing is impossible for God.
80. Silly moments with friends
October 18, 2010
81. Visiting my grandparents in east Tennessee.
82. Glorious fall-colored mountains and lovely weather, and the opportunity to spend an afternoon at Cades Cove (one of my favorite places on this earth).
83. My grandmother, who has Alzheimer's, walking into her kitchen as I pulledmuffins out of the oven and saying, "I love you; it seems like it's always been like this." (Not entirely sure what she was referring or if she really knows who I am most of the time, but it was a very sweet moment.)
84. Visiting over tea with my lovely sister/friend/cousin Sabrina.
85. Seeing the sunset over the Smoky Mountains from the Foothills Parkway
86. A good conversation with my pastor
87. Encouraging texts to let me know a friend is praying for me.
88. "Hellooooooooo ma'am!" Never fails to make me smile. Thank you, Sir Green Shirt.
89. Technology, which allows me to listen to the sermon I missed last night while I drive across Tennessee this afternoon.
90. New music to play over and over on "Nonny" (my non-iPod) that keeps me focused on the Gospel.
October 25, 2010
91. This blog, written by the wife of the former deacon of music at my church. Aaron and Heather moved their family to Haiti in August (I am not-so-secretly envious of this), and Heather updates her blog regularly with very honest (and often quite humorous) glimpses into her heart as she and her family experience both the beauty and the ugliness of life in Haiti. Her posts are not only very well-written, but they're also simultaneously challenging and encouraging and point straight to God and the truth of the Gospel.
92. So thankful for the time I was able to spend with Lina in Nashville last week!
93. Re-reading a favorite childhood book
94. Conversations with friends about what the Lord is doing in our lives (whether we understand it, exactly, or not!)
95. Officially becoming a member of this amazing church tomorrow!
96. I can absolutely and confidently trust in God's promises. Like this one: Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. (Isaiah 41:10)
97. Christmas Blend is back (err, well, for us Starbucks people, that is; guess the rest of y'all still have to wait a few more weeks). Anyway, excited for the upcoming Christmas season (though I still don't understand how it's possible that we're almost to November...)!
98. Band-Aids. A very important part of a klutz's life. I should probably buy stock.
99. Little kids; love them!
100. Cool, breezy nights.
November 1, 2010
101. Sweet time visiting with my nearly-twelve (!!!) year-old cousin Samuel as I drove him to his flag football practice.
102. After nearly a month, our dryer is all hooked up and working! Yay! Laundry just got immensely easier (no more ducking around clothes hanging from ceiling fans or improvised clothes lines, amusing though that was)!
103. Getting to work mornings for most of last week. First time this has happened in months, and 'twas lovely while it lasted (back to nights this week).
104. Attending my first "business meeting" at my church, and good conversations with friends afterward.
105. Joni Eareckson Tada, and the wisdom she imparts in this book.
106. The reminder that God has "blotted out [my] transgressions like a cloud and [my] sins like mist" and that because Christ paid the penalty for MY sins, I have His Spirit and am no longer a slave to sin. Incredible.
107. Forgiveness.
108. I've now lived in Texas for 11 months! And am excited to be here for the foreseeable future! (This is a record; normally by this point I've either already moved or have plans to do so shortly.)
109. That Miss Carly, one of the sweet girls at Notre Maison, now has her passport and medical visa and will be headed to Washington State this week for medical treatment/therapy! This is a beautiful answer to prayer!
110. Neosporin and bandaids. Yep. Necessary part of my life.
* For those who don't know, I wear giraffe earrings every Monday because they add a bit more fun (in my opinion) to the beginning of the week. Yes, I am silly (but then, that goes without saying).
November 8, 2010
111. Encouraging conversations via text with a faraway friend, celebrating God's faithfulness even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
112. Attending Breakaway for the first time and getting to hear Afshin Ziafat speak.
113. A fun morning at U Paint It with a friend from church.
114. That Lina's surgery went so well! She is already heading home (much earlier than expected)!
115. Living in a country where I have the privilege and the right to vote, without fear of persecution.
116. Late night visits with my dear friends, one night shivering over the ice cream we were crazy enough to eat, another night laughing over a stupid movie.
117. Cool weather = scarves and boots! (I mean, for Texas it's cool. But oh-so-lovely.) And. warm, cozy pajamas and lots of blankets to fall asleep under.
118. That my church is intentional about caring for orphans, both locally and around the world.
119. Laughter of children
120. The reminder that no matter the circumstance, no matter the trial, no matter how bogged down by sin we may be, as Christians, "our hope...is not a what, but a Who. The hope we wait for, our only hope, is the 'blessed hope -- the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ' (Titus 2:13) . . . It's all about Jesus."* What may seem utterly impossible -- what may BE utterly impossible for man -- is ENTIRELY possible with God. "Therefore...let us also lay aside every weight, and the sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God."** Hallelujah!
* Joni Eareckson Tada, "A Lifetime of Wisdom" (I highly, highly, highly recommend this book!)
November 15, 2010
121. This video of sweet Carly from Notre Maison, who is in the States receiving medical care. So excited and grateful God worked out all the details for her to come, and so thankful for the Celestin family who loved her before they'd even met her and who so diligently and faithfully pursued getting her here!
122. A lovely walk in the park with a friend.
123. Spontaneously spending the night with friends.
124. Playing tooth fairy for my 7-year-old cousin who lost a tooth on Saturday.
125. Peppermint marble mocha hot chocolate, to warm me up on a cool, drizzly day.
126. Random text messages that make me smile.
127. Vanilla tealight candles.
128. Evidence that my brother's fiancee surely has him wrapped around her finger :)
129. That God gives grace for each moment: "We appropriate the grace of our God -- in full and generous supply -- moment by moment by moment. One day at a time. Redeeming each hour. Drawing on His grace like a tulip opening to April sunlight, like oxygen in the bloodstream, like life itself. And leaving the future to Him." (Joni Eareckson Tada, "A Lifetime of Wisdom")
130. Beautiful Texas sunsets (even if they are coming ridiculously early these days).
November 22, 2010
131. So grateful to whoever (whomever? whatever.) from my church posts the sermons online; I was amazed and excited to find last night's message up just a few hours after the service and to then be able to listen to it before I went to bed. Also (as always) just so thankful to be part of such a beautiful, Gospel-centered church.
132. Time back in Florida with [most of] my siblings. It's been fun spending time with them again (I hadn't seen Danielle, Nahomie, or James in nearly a year!).
33. That Lina is continuing to recover well after her surgery. She's able to do sooo much, considering she just had major spinal surgery at the beginning of the month. She's still in pain and gets tired more easily than normal, but overall she's doing so well.
134. Fun times visiting with friends and their absolutely adorable little boys.
135. Lots of time to read this week! Just finished Treasure Island and Love Has a Price Tag; also reading this wonderfully fun childhood classic!
136. Thankful for a simple way to be a part of bringing hope to people in need, and so thankful for the Hendrick family and all they're doing in Haiti.
137. Homemade applesauce...mmmm!!!
138. Phone conversations with my dear sister-friend-cousins.
139. A thoughtful and encouraging facebook message from a faraway friend.
140. Hot cups of tea on cold mornings.
November 29, 2010
141. Getting to talk to sweet Carly on the phone and hearing her joyful giggle
142. A wonderful week back in Florida with my siblings (and off work!)
143. Being back in Texas (there's no place like home) :)
144. A fun Thanksgiving at work (yes, I worked, but it truly was an enjoyable day)
145. Late night laughter at Eyrie Park
146. Starting off the morning with a delicious soy cappuccino
147. Paul is off to Haiti again to work with Real Hope for Haiti, where he will be helping to care for cholera patients. Thankful that he has this opportunity; proud of his heart for those in need, particularly in Haiti.
148. The simple yet profound, convicting yet freeing truths expressed in last night's sermon (I'll try to remember to post the link when it shows up on the church's website; in the meantime, here's the passage we studied).
149. Fires in the fireplace and mugs of hot chocolate on chilly evenings
150. A brief visit with an out-of-town friend
December 6, 2010
151. A wonderful conversation over coffee this morning with a sweet friend from church.
152. A phone call from Paul in Haiti, even though the connection was so jumbled I couldn't hardly understand a word he said. But, it sounds like he's doing well. And he was able to go to Port au Prince Fellowship yesterday and stay at Heartline for a day, which is super exciting. (Edit: And I just got an email for him, to make up for the lame-o conversation attempt; yay!)
153. I was able to attend a Haitian Creations purse party the other night and got to buy a purse to support Heartline's women's ministry! (If you are ever looking to support a ministry in Haiti, support Heartline! I seriously cannot say enough about this wonderful ministry!)
154. My "Swinging Christmas" Pandora station -- love it!
155. Decorating for Christmas.
156. Dinner with a friend.
157. My one-year-in-Texas anniversary was last Tuesday; soooo excited about this! It's been quite a year! Though it took me awhile to warm up to CS, I truly, truly love it here, thanks to dear friends and coworkers and my amaaaazing church.
158. Sweet, encouraging words from a fellow church member.
159. This music, by a friend of a friend.
160. A simple yet profound prayer by a child during Lifegroup.
December 13, 2010
161. Homemade Christmas cards (though I'm questioning my sanity in deciding to do this...I am so not crafty but am very much a perfectionist. Dangerous combination.)
162. Lunch with a friend from my Bible study.
163. A day of [forced] rest... Though it would have been preferable to have not been sick, I clearly needed a day of doing nothing but drinking tea, laying on the couch, and watching Pride and Prejudice.
164. So excited about Heartline's new teen mom home; also super excited to get together with other women from my church to shop for one the rooms in this new home!
165. This Christmas album, which has quickly become one of my favorites and which I've had on repeat for the past several days.
166. An afternoon outing to see The Voyage of the Dawn Treader with my Texasfamily.
167. An evening at the theatre watching a local production of White Christmas with friends from church.
168. My second year of celebrating Saint Lucia's Day with my Texas family.
169. The comfort (and thrill) of knowing that God places certain people and situations in my life for a purpose, even though it often doesn't make sense to me. It's neat to look back and see how this has been true in the past while realizing that it certainly must be true in the present as well.
170. Christmas lights.
December 20, 2010
171. Utterly random text messages from a friend.
172. Super cute new earrings, made by a friend for me for Christmas.
173. Lots and lots of sleep, to [hopefully] finally get me over this icky sickness!
174. Paul made it home safely from Haiti!
175. Christmas break, which means a nearly empty town and thus a few weeks of calmer days at work.
176. Organized closets. Call me strange, but this just makes me so happy.
177. Just finished this book, which I've wanted to read since I was a child. Entirely different from the movie, but I absolutely love both.
178. Getting to go shopping for Heartline's new teen mom home with other ladies from my church. Such a blessing to get to be a part of something so beautiful!
179. The reminder that God's ways are so much higher and better than any plans I could attempt to come up with; His providence is amazing.
180. "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord." Just think about that; what incomprehensibly beautiful, incredible, wonderful, breathtaking news!
December 27, 2010
181. Lots of fun opportunities recently to hang out with friends from church.
182. An afternoon spent driving around with a friend, finishing up Christmas errands.
183. New rubber boots!
184. Unexpectedly meeting up with my dear friends whilst Christmas shopping and getting to spend several hours together.
185. Reading this new book (or rather, the first of these two) by a crackling fire.
186. Going to the midnight showing of True Grit.
187. Taking my 12-year-old cousin to play bingo at an assisted living home in town with friends from church.
188. A wonderful new coat, just in time for cold weather (which finally showed up, after we hit the 80s last week).
189. A low-key Christmas, spent with my brother and my "Texas family". Don't think I've ever gotten to sleep in on Christmas before; 'twas lovely!
January 3, 2011
191. Reading books with Phoebe.
192. Utterly undeserved grace...mercy...forgiveness.
193. A New Year's visit from my dad.
194. Finally getting to meet this amazing woman (pray for her and her family as they head back to their Haiti home tomorrow)!
195. A fun and fairly low-key New Year's Eve with friends.
196. My church. And the people there. (I know this is a repeat...makes the list nearly every week...but seriously...so thankful to be a part of such a beautiful community of people who love the Lord.)
197. Quieter (for the most part) days at work while the students are out of town; enjoying this little break from the usual craziness.
198. The anticipation and excitement of a new year, full of hopes and dreams and who knows what!
199. Going to see The Voyage of the Dawn Treader again with Paul...and then AGAIN with friends from church :)
200. Sitting in front of a crackling fire on a chilly afternoon.
January 10, 2011
201. Ice skating TWICE last week!
202. A good, honest conversation with a friend.
203. Finally having time to clean/organize the back room at work (now if we can just KEEP it this clean/organized!).
204. Dinner at Blue Baker with friends from church.
205. Watching Sleeping Beauty for the first time ever :)
206. Getting to eat leftover pizza at Eyrie Park.
207. Having a new, fresh week ahead of me (and being able to put last week behind me)!
208. Nicknames.
209. The reminder, however painful, of how very much I need God's grace and mercy, and the fact that "if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9)
210. This very timely article.
January 17, 2011
211. A fun evening hanging out with friends after a wonderful church service.
212. The first Lifegroup meeting of the year; so good to be back together again.
213. Tuesday night Bingo at the assisted living home with Samuel, Bunny, and friends from church.
214. Baking cupcakes with Willin and Jubilee.
215. The gift of friendship...so grateful for long-time friends; thoroughly enjoying meeting new friends.
216. That my ice skates were able to be repaired (so that I don't have to buy new ones!).
217. This lovely book, which I am currently rereading.
218. A conversation with TGIGM.
219. Watching this fantastic movie again.
January 24, 2011
221. A wonderful first ice-skating lesson.
222. Lifegivers, and the opportunity to fellowship with the amazing women in mychurch.
223. My new FEED bracelet from Aja :) (mine's blue, for Haiti, of course!)
224. Getting to visit Will at his Starbucks.
225. Loved, loved, loved getting to spend a day in San Antonio with dear family friends who we've know "since forever" :)
226. Getting to eat at one of my favorite restaurants (which unfortunately does not yet have a location in good ol' CS).
227. Spending an afternoon/evening at Eyrie Park, for the first time in foreeeever!
228. Listening to a friend's 3 year-old son giggle at dinner.
229. The hopeful anticipation of all that is to come.
230. Yesterday's sermon.
January 31, 2011
231. Sabrina and Donavon are ENGAGED!!!!! (Congratulations, dear friends!)
232. Middle-of-the-night set-up for the engagement :)
233. Ice skating to the Tangled soundtrack (so fun!)
234. Barbecue and two-stepping with friends from church.
235. An impromptu slumber party at Eyrie Park.
236. Lots of visits from church friends at Starbucks.
237. An overnight visit from Florida friends while they were in town for a show they played here.
239. Several good conversations with a sweet friend from church.
240. Spending time with Bunny and Samuel.
February 7, 2011
February 7, 2011
241. Watching the kids at Lifegroup act out the story of Ruth.
242. A great evening at f(logos) discussing the first chapter of the book we're studying this semester.
243. SNOW!!! and the wonderfully fun morning at work that consisted of running outside every 15 minutes or so to make snow angels (especially enjoyed teaching the proper way to make a snow angel to a customer named Josh from Aruba who had never seen snow), slide around, and basically just bask in the Texas snow!
244. Sitting in the falling snow, drinking a cup of Verona with Sir Green Shirt.
245. Spending time with Bunny at a coffee shop, sharing about what the Lord is doing in our lives.
246. A homemade hat, knitted by a friend in Chicago, which I've had several opportunities to wear again this week.
247. Girl Scout Cookies (I bought Thin Mints and Caramel Delights on Sunday!)
248. This book; so convicting, but soooo good.
249. Getting to sleep in on Saturday after a busy week filled with late nights and early mornings.
250. Getting to visit with Everly and another girl from (f)logos Saturday afternoon.
February 14, 2011
251. The amazing, incredible, awesome way God worked out all the details for me and Paul to sublet our apartment and move into our new duplex.
252. Our duplex, with its yard. and attic. and doorbell. and windows. and space. and everything about it that makes us so excited to live here :)
253. The generosity of several wonderful people from church who donated furniture to the couple from Spain who sublet our apartment.
254. Friends who gave up their evening to help us move.
255. A birthday dinner for a friend.
256. The opportunity to serve coffee with coworkers at a benefit concert for a family in need.
257. A movie night with friends.
258. Discovering another kindred spirit.
259. A beautiful afternoon, and time spent under a tree reading through I John.
260. Spending Valentine's evening with girls from church, enjoying a wonderful meal cooked by one of the elders and remembering that "this is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins." (1 John 4:10)
February 21, 2011
261. Loving this music!
262. A quick visit to see extended family in Tennessee; so thankful for the opportunity to see my grampa one more time.
263. Awakening to the chirping of birds outside my window.
264. Beautiful spring weather.
265. A quick Sunday afternoon nap beside an open window.
266. The sound of my neighbors' kids playing.
267. Spending my lunch break with a wonderful friend from church, who is also my newest coworker :)
268. An evening playing games at a coffee shop with friends.
269. An especially fun night of bingo at the assisted living home.
February 28, 2011
271. A fun night celebrating a friend's birthday.
272. Finally having time to unpack the rest of my boxes and very nearly get this new home set up :)
273. My new dining table, which now ranks among my favorite/best craigslist finds.
274. Spending Saturday evening playing this ridiculous but fun game with friends.
275. Getting to serve in preschool at church and play with some of the cutest kids ever.
276. These cookies, which the lovely Sabrina made for our Bible study...and which I loved so much that I made a batch myself the next day. (Yes, cookies are making my top-ten list of things for which I am thankful this week. They were that good. And I maybe have a bit of a sweet tooth...)
277. Getting to spend more time with a dear friend from church, now that we're coworkers :)
278. This is unoriginal, as it makes the list nearly every week (and the weeks it's not actually here in writing, it's very much in my heart)...but I am just oh-so-thankful for this amazing body of believers that I'm blessed to be a part of.
279. Getting to do lots of cooking/baking in the past few days.
280. This post from my pastor's wife, which I just came across tonight (though it was written earlier this month). Very timely for me, and very much something I need to learn/remember.
March 7, 2011
281. Kevin and Danielle's wedding!
282. Getting to spend time with Ian and Stephanie after the wedding; so very blessed by these two.
283. Seeing so many Florida friends again this week - Phil and Krystle and their boys; Mr. and Mrs. Seidel; JoeDel; Mr. and Mrs. Fraiser; Ian and Stephanie; AJ; Gibby.
284. Encouraging texts from wonderful church friends, and, similarly, the support and prayers of my amazing church family.
285. Several opportunities to borrow Kevin and Danielle's kitchen and cook/bake so that I didn't go utterly into kitchen withdrawal while in Florida :P
286. Getting to spend time with Kevin and Danielle before their wedding, and especially getting to know Danielle better (since I moved to Texas 3 days after they started dating).
287. Hearing how the Lord is working in the lives of dear friends and family members.
288. Listening to last night's sermon during the plane ride back to Texas.
289. Coming home to Texas!
290. That Sabrina and Donovan have found a venue and picked a date for their wedding - can't wait for September 25th!
March 14, 2011
291. The business meeting at church and hearing all of the testimonies of those who were baptized. God is so faithful!
292. Sweet time fellowshipping and praying with friends.
293. Getting to spend time one-on-one with Miss Pat on Tuesday and Mr. Jim on Thursday at Esperanza.
294. The guys from Still Creek Ranch taking the time to pray with KM and me when they came by to pick up the donated pastries at Starbucks.
295. The beautiful unity of the body of Christ and the incredible blessing it is to be part of this.
296. Hanging out with new friends and enjoying a campfire and s'mores at Lake Bryan.
297. God's faithful provision: "I am the LORD your God, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt. Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it . . . But he would feed you with the finest of the wheat, and with honey from the rock I would satisfy you." (Psalm 81:10, 16)
298. Thankful to have gotten to go to TN a few weeks ago to see my grandpa before he died (3/13/11). So thankful to have had him in my life for 25 1/2 years. And so very thankful that he's with Jesus now.
299. A quiet Sunday.
300. Awakening to the sound of rain outside my window, and being able to lie in bed for a few more minutes instead of having to immediately jump up and begin my day.
March 21, 2011
301. So proud of a friend who decided this week, after much prayer, to quit the band he's played in for several years in order to pursue God more fully. Such a hard decision, but one that I know God will bless and use for His glory.
March 21, 2011
301. So proud of a friend who decided this week, after much prayer, to quit the band he's played in for several years in order to pursue God more fully. Such a hard decision, but one that I know God will bless and use for His glory.
302. glimmers of hope. and that's all I will say :)
303. Getting to see all of my cousins, aunts, and uncles on my mom's side of the family last week as we celebrated my grandfather's life and the fact that he is now with Jesus.
304. My pastor's consistency and boldness in preaching the Gospel; last night's sermon was really convicting (but in no way condemning). Lots to think and pray through as I seek to be obedient to the Lord.
305. So thankful that the team from my church that went to Guatemala
last week is back and that I've been able to see pictures and hear lots of stories of the Lord's faithfulness to them throughout their trip.
306. Especially thankful that this dear friend is home again; love her! :)
307. I finally made it over to Eyrie Park for a few hours Saturday night for the first time, really, in weeks (which is unacceptable); soooo enjoyed spending time talking and eating brownies with Everly and Birdie :)
308. Filling up a local restaurant after churchSunday evening, when about 1/3 of those who'd been at the service went there for dinner :)
309. Rollerskating/blading with several families/friends from church...complete with green beads and glow sticks for St. Patrick's Day.
310. Out of the mouths of babes... "I couldn't find my skates for a really long time...and then I looked in my underwear drawer." -Justus Bacak, age 6.
311. Starting to run again...for the first time since last summer :/ Trying to get ready for Run for Compassion; thankful that so far, the weather has been beautiful and I've actually been enjoying running.
312. The bluebonnets and Indian paintbrushes are starting to come up! I love Spring in Texas!!!
313. Old family photos, seen for the first time in years.
315. Good conversation with a friend/coworker in her big ol' truck :)
316. Getting to spend time with another lifegroup this week (since mine was off for spring break).
317. So thankful to have the opportunity to know several of the residents at Esperanza, with all their hugs, smiles, and stories (even those I've heard so often that I could tell them myself!). Love these people!
318. Seeing my best friend's wedding dress hanging in her room...eeek! :)
319. Coffee stickers as prayer reminders.
320. My new Haiti-made earrings.
March 28, 2011
321. Forgiveness, and the freedom that comes with letting go of bitterness.
322. Lunch and pedicures with lovely friends on Sunday.
323. Attending a midweek service at the church that planted my church; so cool how "at home" I felt even though I didn't know hardly anyone there.
324. Seeing Jimmy Needham in concert.
325. Hanging out with friends at the park on Friday; while most people played ultimate frisbee, others of us ran around and had a magnificent time playing (yes, playing) on the exercise equipment things...
326. Tuesday was my first time ice skating since I injured my toe in January, and it went really well (and was lots of fun). Yay for finally getting back on the ice!
327. Babysitting (along with 3 college girls) a bunch of kids from church while their parents had a hilarious game night. Seriously, my church has THE cutest and most fun kids ever.
328. A wonderful time with one of my coworkers, getting my hair cut and then completely losing track of time while we visited.
329. Going on a walk with a friend from church, catching up on life since we've barely been able to see each other this semester.
330. Having coffee with another friend from church.
332. God's grace in enabling me to not only be diligent in continuing to train for Run for Compassion but also (and especially!) in enabling me to ENJOY running. It's been amazing.
333. Spending time visiting with one of the church elders and his wife during the fellowship meal after church (pray for them; they're having their fourth baby today!).
334. Eating ice cream, right out of it's little pint-sized container (but no, I did not eat the whole thing at once).
335. My brother and sister-in-law's wedding pictures!!!
336. Hugs from friends.
337. Peace from God that unites hope for the future with contentment in the present.
338. My lifegroup. I love it. So wonderful to meet again after two weeks off for Spring Break (plus the week before SB I was out of town).
339. A lovely Sunday evening chat with dear Everly.
340. Celebrating this dear girl's 16th birthday today (wasn't it just yesterday we celebrated "double digits" in Haiti???).
April 4. 2011
341. This.
342. Spending my lunch break on Thursday with a dear friend.
343. Allergies. Not because I like 'em, but because when they hit me hard like they did this week, it's a very good reminder of how blessed I am to normally have good health.
344. Getting to see two wonderful friends every single day this past week at Starbucks (and then yesterday at church).
345. Chasing a coworker around the store with a mop. Just trust me on this. It was great fun.
346. An impromptu middle-of-the-night baking session.
347. A way-super-long-overdue coffee date with the lovely Sabrina.
348. My doctor/lifegroup leader/church elder handing me a prescription at churchso that I can maybe quit being "Beth the Mute" sometime in the near future (I lost my voice on Saturday and its return has been quite gradual).
349. A couple more good runs in preparation for Saturday's Run for Compassion(donate here to help me raise money for the Child Survival Programs in Haiti and in Ethiopia).
350. "Going blue" with friends :)
351. Birthdays! Birdie's 16th last Monday and Sabrina's 21st on Saturday! We had lots of fun celebrating both :)
352. Really good visits with several of the residents at Esperanza, including one whom I hadn't seen in months.
353. Ice skating amongst gabajillion kids/teens; it was crazy but still fun.
354. This fun movie.
355. FINALLY getting to see Donovan again, for the first time since he and Sabrina got engaged.
356. A late-night talk with the brother.
357. An encouraging text from a sweet friend.
358. Getting my raise AND retro-vacation pay on the same paycheck (both of which I'd forgotten were coming).
359. Paul FINALLY getting his raise (that he was supposed to get last summer).
360. 5 years with Starbucks (as of last Tuesday)! Here's my 4 1/2 year anniversary post.
April 11, 2011
361. Getting to visit with my lovely friend Kim (and eat yummy frozen yogurt)
362. Serving in preschool Tuesday night and getting to play with super cute kids :)
363. Running into two friends from church at the ice skating rink and having a really good conversation right in the middle of the ice.
364. This video, and the reminder to wait on the Lord and hope in His Word, "for with the Lord there is steadfast love, and with Him is plentiful redemption" (Psalm 130:5-7).
365. Seeing so many church friends at Starbucks (y'all, I'm not kidding when I tell you it makes my day when y'all come in!)
366. That Run for Compassion was such a huge SUCCESS! So excited about how much money was raised to support the Child Survival Programs in Haiti and Ethiopia! (Want to be part of this? You can still donate!)
367. Running and enjoying my first 5k :) I especially loved seeing those of you who were holding signs along the way (thanks for the encouragement, Sarah, Rachel, Jessie, Rachael, Cody, Camaaron, and others!).
368. A Pride and Prejudice movie night with Jessica, Stephanie, and Julie...though I have to admit that despite my best efforts, I was only awake for a very small percentage of the last half (it'd been a long day!).
369. These. Holymoly. Yum.
370. A lovely Sunday afternoon visit with Sabrina and Everly.
371. That my head was no longer directly beneath the light fixture when it decided to fall and shatter on my table.
372. The sharing of ridiculous/hilarious youtube videos on our church's member site. Can't say Baptists don't have a sense of humor!
373. Standing in the parking lot talking to Julie and Sarah for a long time after church; I really love these girls.
374. Freshly vacuumed carpets (and the fact that my vacuum is working again).
375. Encouragement from friends.
376. A Saturday afternoon nap in my hammock...soooo wonderful!
377. The expectant hope of what is to come.
378. Beginning to plan for a long-awaited trip back to Haiti (hoping for May/June). If you want to come (or are in the least bit interested), let me know!
379. Playing "cone ball" with Justus and hearing him giggle every time he made the ball shoot out of the cone.
380. Deandre, one of the little boys at church. I just really enjoy this kid.
April 18, 2011
381. Visiting with Miss Barbara at Esperanza on Thursday and Friday.
382. Getting to hang out with my sweet friend Michelle and eat yummy pie and have a wonderful conversation.
383. Ice skating with Sarah!!!!!! (originally this had a mere 3 exclamation points. Then I reread it and got excited and decided it needed more.) :)
384. A neck/shoulder massage from the brother :)
385. Cooler mornings and breezy afternoons.
386. Having such a wonderful group of friends that I can text and ask for prayers when I'm stressed.
387. We're getting coconut syrup back at Starbucks (after 5 long years without it!). I might be excited about this...maybe :)
388. Taking a nap in my hammock on a beautiful Sunday afternoon.
389. Not having to go to Houston for a class last Tuesday...which meant I got a [much needed and appreciated] day off!
390. And because I had the day off...I got to go hang out with Meg! Love her!
391. Surviving and mostly enjoying one of the busiest work days I've had all year...because I have wonderful coworkers :)
392. Hearing a friend's exciting news.
393. Getting to an enjoy a quiet Saturday evening in the kitchen, trying out new recipes.
394. Speaking of recipes, if you're a chocolate lover, make these cupcakes. Amaaaazing.
395. And while eating aforementioned cupcakes: "I don't like chocolate cake, but I like chocolate cupcakes." Thank you, Jason, for that quote. That was undoubtedly the hardest I'd laughed all day :)
396. A fun game night at Jason and Meg's (though I was regrettably quite tired). Learned (sort of) how to play Settlers of Catan.
397. Advice from a friend that wasn't what I necessarily wanted to hear but was certainly what I needed to hear.
398. Friends who encourage me and who cheer me up when I'm struggling.
399. Running to some old-school Christian music...oh the childhood memories this brings back!
400. The incredible truth that Christ has set me free from the bondage of sin; I no longer have to live in it but instead, through His power and grace, I can live a life that pleases Him.
April 25, 2011
365. Seeing so many church friends at Starbucks (y'all, I'm not kidding when I tell you it makes my day when y'all come in!)
366. That Run for Compassion was such a huge SUCCESS! So excited about how much money was raised to support the Child Survival Programs in Haiti and Ethiopia! (Want to be part of this? You can still donate!)
367. Running and enjoying my first 5k :) I especially loved seeing those of you who were holding signs along the way (thanks for the encouragement, Sarah, Rachel, Jessie, Rachael, Cody, Camaaron, and others!).
368. A Pride and Prejudice movie night with Jessica, Stephanie, and Julie...though I have to admit that despite my best efforts, I was only awake for a very small percentage of the last half (it'd been a long day!).
369. These. Holymoly. Yum.
370. A lovely Sunday afternoon visit with Sabrina and Everly.
371. That my head was no longer directly beneath the light fixture when it decided to fall and shatter on my table.
372. The sharing of ridiculous/hilarious youtube videos on our church's member site. Can't say Baptists don't have a sense of humor!
373. Standing in the parking lot talking to Julie and Sarah for a long time after church; I really love these girls.
374. Freshly vacuumed carpets (and the fact that my vacuum is working again).
375. Encouragement from friends.
376. A Saturday afternoon nap in my hammock...soooo wonderful!
377. The expectant hope of what is to come.
378. Beginning to plan for a long-awaited trip back to Haiti (hoping for May/June). If you want to come (or are in the least bit interested), let me know!
379. Playing "cone ball" with Justus and hearing him giggle every time he made the ball shoot out of the cone.
380. Deandre, one of the little boys at church. I just really enjoy this kid.
April 18, 2011
381. Visiting with Miss Barbara at Esperanza on Thursday and Friday.
382. Getting to hang out with my sweet friend Michelle and eat yummy pie and have a wonderful conversation.
383. Ice skating with Sarah!!!!!! (originally this had a mere 3 exclamation points. Then I reread it and got excited and decided it needed more.) :)
384. A neck/shoulder massage from the brother :)
385. Cooler mornings and breezy afternoons.
386. Having such a wonderful group of friends that I can text and ask for prayers when I'm stressed.
387. We're getting coconut syrup back at Starbucks (after 5 long years without it!). I might be excited about this...maybe :)
388. Taking a nap in my hammock on a beautiful Sunday afternoon.
389. Not having to go to Houston for a class last Tuesday...which meant I got a [much needed and appreciated] day off!
390. And because I had the day off...I got to go hang out with Meg! Love her!
391. Surviving and mostly enjoying one of the busiest work days I've had all year...because I have wonderful coworkers :)
392. Hearing a friend's exciting news.
393. Getting to an enjoy a quiet Saturday evening in the kitchen, trying out new recipes.
394. Speaking of recipes, if you're a chocolate lover, make these cupcakes. Amaaaazing.
395. And while eating aforementioned cupcakes: "I don't like chocolate cake, but I like chocolate cupcakes." Thank you, Jason, for that quote. That was undoubtedly the hardest I'd laughed all day :)
396. A fun game night at Jason and Meg's (though I was regrettably quite tired). Learned (sort of) how to play Settlers of Catan.
397. Advice from a friend that wasn't what I necessarily wanted to hear but was certainly what I needed to hear.
398. Friends who encourage me and who cheer me up when I'm struggling.
399. Running to some old-school Christian music...oh the childhood memories this brings back!
400. The incredible truth that Christ has set me free from the bondage of sin; I no longer have to live in it but instead, through His power and grace, I can live a life that pleases Him.
April 25, 2011
401. Kind of accidentally "eavesdropping" on an incredibly amusing comment thread on a friend's facebook photo...hil.ar.i.ous! Makes me want to be friends with these people that I don't really know.
402. An encouraging card from a friend.
403. Conversations with Sarah.
404. Conversations with Julie.
405. Discovering a new favorite Bluebell flavor: chocolate mud pie! ohm'goodness, 'tis yum!
406. Kind friends who are so willing to give me rides when Paul and I have car conflicts (since we share a vehicle).
407. Getting off work several hours early on Saturday and thereby getting a longer weekend :)
408. A quick nap on the couch while dinner was in the oven.
409. Babysitting some super crazy fun kids.
410. Getting to help with Truth and Grace during one of the Good Friday services at church.
411. Good Friday.
413. Being able to fit in a quick visit to Eyrie Park on Easter afternoon.
414. Making "mufflers" (Sir Green Shirt's name for my experimental raspberry cobbler muffins).
415. That I'm not normally sick..or such a medicine-head as I was last week (my apologies to anyone with whom I may have attempted conversation between Tuesday and Friday; coherency just wasn't happening). And so thankful to be feeling better now!
416. Since I've managed to refrain from mentioning this for the past several weeks...my church :) So thankful for the Truth that is preached, the Gospel that is lived out, and the fellowship and unity we have as a body of believers.
417. Getting to work with Rachael for several hours today :)
418. Teeny tiny dogs with names like Attila (i.e. The Hun) and Tank. This just makes me laugh.
419. A lovely phone conversation with Sabrina.
420. "But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead!" (1 Corinthians 15:20)
