Long post, but it's been awhile. Have to make up for lost ground. Merry Christmas to all! Enjoy time with family and friends and find more things to love than hate...
I love rain, but I hate wet feet.
I love working on x-mas gifts at work, but I hate stupid pointless meetings.
I love ornament parties and hot chocolate, but I hate driving 45 minutes to get to them.
I love catching up with friends I haven't talked to in awhile, but I hate that all your best friends can't live in the same town as you.
I love taking pictures, but I hate being in them.
I love watching movies, but I hate that many are ruined by the addition of too many sequels.
I love designing things, but I hate work that is tedious and monotonous.
I love corn on the cob from our garden, but I hate corn chowder (whatever that's comprised of).
I love a good run, but I hate the lack of motivation to accomplish such when the weather turns bad.
I love x-mas shopping for people, but I hate going to the mall the weekend before x-mas.
I love the traditions of Mom's thumbprint cookies and x-mas morning sausage balls, but I hate missing the tree decorating.
I love not having homework every night, but I hate only having a few days off for x-mas as opposed to a whole month. (And Spring Break? What's that?)
I love watching little kids get excited about opening presents, but I hate knowing there are many who don't get to feel that excitement.
I love my new apartment, but I hate the path it took to get to this point.
I love giving gifts to people and watching the opening of them, but I hate wondering if they really like it or if they're just pretending.
I love the contrast between country life and city life, but I hate rush hour traffic.
I love new adventures, but I hate change.
I love a good cup of coffee in the morning, but I hate when the grounds go through the filter and end up in your cup.
I love being able to wear jeans and flip flops to work, but I hate when people around me feel the need to wear high heels and skirts everyday.
I love surprises from people, but I hate the feeling that you should give something in return, though you weren't planning on it.
I love 'O Holy Night' and 'Ukranian Bell Carol', but I hate radio stations that start playing x-mas music before Thanksgiving and stores that have x-mas trees one aisle over from their Halloween costumes.
I love good music and movies.
I love sitting in front of the fireplace when it's cold outside.
I love wrapping packages with Mom and Dad.
I love snow when you haven't seen any in a long time.
I love when people make you feel like the most important person in the world.
I love the smell of rain.
I love the feeling you have on x-mas eve and x-mas morning.
I love my family and the time I get to spend with them.
I love friends that you know are your friends for life.
I love Christmastime.....
Archive for 2006
I hate having a really good idea for a post and then I sit down to write and nothing comes to me. Grrr.... I'm now accepting ideas...
Thanksgiving Break...
A few days I did take,
Tuesday night began the trip,
Work Wednesday through Friday I sure did skip.
That night at Katy's, I lay my head,
She's my best bud, and that's enough said.
Then home was calling for Abby and I,
Once I got her outta bed, to Canyon we did fly.
What there was waiting for I?
None other than Mom's blueberry pie.
For the following week already I know,
I should run instead of eat, and that is for sho'.
Played some stick and some soccer with the hyper Jessie pup,
And a horse ride the next morning was worth getting up.
Turkey and fixin's were the fare for the day,
Though that hot pineapple is my favorite, I surely must say.
Little W called us at last,
"Pa, Grammy T, Aunt Gretch--get on down to A-town and hurry up fast!
Cause two weeks old I now am,
And every moment deserves the video cam!"
All weekend long, we sure did relax,
No sign of computers, telephones, or fax.
Great food, a few games, and a movie or two,
The blessings of good company are far from few.
For in the midst of uncertainties, it sure is nice to know,
Your family's got your back, wherever you may go.
Hope your Turkey Weekend was as good as mine,
For God is ever present by many a sign.
So despite the unknown, we will give thanks,
For family and friends are worth more than our banks.
com‧mit‧ment /kəˈmɪtmÉ™nt/[kuh-mit-muhnt] –noun
1. the act of committing.
2. the state of being committed.
3. the act of committing, pledging, or engaging oneself.
4. a pledge or promise; obligation
5. engagement; involvement
....to name a few. Keep your commitments to people. Cause it's really crappy when you don't.
That's right, I've officially graduated from my scorching hot conference room, entitled "The Lab" to my very own cubicle. And let me tell ya, it is a glorious thing. Lots of space to spread out, no more running back and forth to the archives, and no more sitting quietly while important people have meetings in my space. Yessss.... Now, there is still that element of people watching over your shoulder all the time (no more watching movie trailers online...) but a mirror will solve that quite sufficiently. I thought that was a silly idea until I realized everyone had one. Huh, wonder what that insinuates... Anyway, don't get too excited. I'm still the lowly intern until January, when they either hire me on for real or I take a hike elsewhere. But being around people actually has some perks. Let's take today for example. Today I was privileged to participate in the tasting of the Hershey Kisses Bar. Our CD brought in 6 bags of various Hershey Kisses, and we had to decide on the best kind. Revelation! They now make Chocolate Truffle and Candy Cane Kisses! How did I not know this?! Incredible. In the end, Chocolate Truffle won for best new flavor and Peanut Butter for the classic fav. A good first day of productivity in the cube. Now, what to put up for decoration...?
Wyatt Cody Nickson * November 13, 2006 * 3:35 pm * 7 lbs. 9 oz. * 20.5 inches * Born (just in time for his Aunt Gretch to make it to the hospital) to a very excited family and 2 wonderful parents!
*****
I believe I understand miracles a little better now.
*****
Pride is normally spoken of in a negative way, but it can also be equally good.
*****
Nurses can get annoying, but what a blessing for a baby to be born in America where he can get the care he needs.
*****
I will never understand how anyone could see/have a newborn baby and give up/abandon him.
*****
I think it would be a pretty cool feeling to see your own kids enter parenthood, for them to experience that perspective that you never could explain to them as they grew up.
*****
Babies need a lot of physical things. A lot of things. But really, all they need is love. And maybe a cloth diaper...!
So I spent the weekend in the great outdoors of Lindale, Texas for a retreat with the Prestoncrest gang. All in all, a good time. Granted we reverted back to the traditional singing of 'Light the Fire' as we stood in a circle around an actual campfire, but we had s'mores, played 'Take a Hike', and had some good get-to-know-people time. The leaves were changing to a wide array of fall colors and it was beautiful, though chilly. Gary gave some great talks out of John 1. Began with Jesus choosing to make his dwelling among us. Then our second 'session' focused on thinking of a time in our life that we wish we could take back/re-do. Pretty easy to think of for me, though a few did come to mind. We discussed those for a while and then turned to talk about what it would be like if Jesus had taken back coming to earth/the crucifixion. What would that look like? What would that mean to us? Ended up with, because he didn't take back his life on earth, how should that in turn be reflecter in our lives. Lot of good stuff. Anyway, it was nice to escape the big city for a bit. Returned for some apartment hunting today and actually had a little luck. Off to Abilene tomorrow to see my nephew!!! Pray for a safe delivery whenever that happens to be and check back soon for some pictures.
Well, it's a few days after the fact, but hey, the pictures were a long time in coming. So I'm really not a fan of Halloween. Never have been I guess, though I was a pretty cute pumpkin alongside my law officer brother one year. Then came the mouse/bear and Ninja Turtle days. Throw in Sylvester and Tweety and that encompasses the most memorable costumes to appear from the Nickson household. Not quite as extravagant as the costumes of today, but at least they were homemade and that's more than WM can say. (That's for you, Abby!) I must say though, the highlight of this glorious occasion Tuesday was definately the roasted pumpkin seeds. Tasty...
So last Thursday we had a costume contest at work and though I participated in dressing up, I did not take the stage nor any pictures of myself. Sorry to disappoint. Here were a few of our winners though: The Ninja T's....our SMD Senior Designer as Johnny Depp...and two of my friends, Rachel and Nicole, as Thing 1 and Thing 2....
In closing, don't let your pets be left out of the festivities...
Hmmm.... it's been awhile. I'll hit the highlights:
*Work is crazy busy. By crazy busy, I mean absurdly crazy busy and lots of overtime and deadlines. Had a little Halloween fun last Thursday. More on that later. Maybe some pictures. Otherwise, it's nose to the grindstone. Impatiently awaiting HR to hurry up and decide how to make my position for real.
*Went to Boles Children's Home Sat/Sun with the Prestoncrest group. Brought back the days of dorm life as 25 of us were in one building - 4 rooms and 2 bathrooms. Weekend fun included lots of Disney karaoke, Spades, Henley's all but twin, a church of 39, and a costume parade.
*I hate time changes. Forget an extra hour of sleep for one night. I walked outta work at 6:10 tonight and by the time I drove home, it was pitch dark. This is not good for my running routine. I'm gonna have to attempt getting up early, too early. This does not make me happy.
*You should be able to get music from other people's ITunes library and put it into yours. I don't care if that's "stealing music" or not. You should be able to share. There is too much good stuff out there and too many hours in each day to listen to the same songs you have over and over.
*Finished yet another Dekker book. He continues to prove himself brilliant. Next is line is the autobiography of MLK, Jr.
*I have a nephew coming in 3 weeks-ish. Get excited!!!
I've recently run across some of the most creative artistic talent I've ever seen in the work of Peter Callesen. There's certainly some odd performance work and installations on his website, but check out what this guy can do with paper. Truly amazing. 
Fantastic weekend. Great run. Amazing friends. Wonderful family. Good escape for a while... Apparently I like to post songs lately... So here's the current one after this weekend, though I'm afraid city lights, flat ground, and a thunderstorm had to substitute for the mountains this time.
Airplane -Bethany Dillon
In an airplane
I take the window seat
A thousand feet, and all I know shrinks in minutes
When the sky is gray
I want to believe
That when the sun is hiding it still exists
In an airplane
Are kings and common men
At the window side by side, their view is now the same
Some relax and rest their eyes
Some sit on the edge
As we all break through the clouds, into the light of day
Mountain tops peak through
This is where I see You
I've never seen a clearer blue
This is where I see You
Leave behind your busy life
All you have is who you are
Space like this is hard to find, so breathe it in
Someone will say, "Where are you heading?"
And it might be the first time you ever thought about it
A baby's talking two rows behind me
The sun just set for the second time today
You seem to use the smallest things around me
To get me to this place
Mountain tops peak through
This is where I see You
I've never seen a clearer blue
This is where I see You
I heard this song today and thought I'd share. Alison Krauss sings it, though I'm sure others have as well; I feel like I've heard it elsewhere.
"A Living Prayer"
In this world I walk alone with no place to call my home
But there's One who holds my hand
The rugged road through barren lands
The way is dark, the road is steep
But He's become my eyes to see
The strength to climb, my griefs to bear
This Savior lives inside me there
In Your love I find release
A haven from my unbelief
Take my life and let me be
A living prayer my God to thee
In these trials of life I find
Another Voice inside my mind
He comforts me and bids me live
Inside the love the Father gives
In your love I find release
A haven from my unbelief
Take my life and let me be
A living prayer my God to thee
take my life and let me be
A living prayer my God to thee
Headed outta here for the weekend and couldn't be more excited about that! Blessings~
I ran across this the other day and thought it quite ridiculous, as I'm sure the rest of my family will agree. Here's part of the article:
6-pound Chihuahua is Tiny Drug-finding Dog
CHARDON, Ohio - Though she’s only a 6-pound Chihuahua-rat terrier mix who looks like she belongs in Paris Hilton’s purse, Midge has the will, skill and nose of a 100-pound German shepherd.
The newest recruit for the Geauga County Sheriff Department’s K-9 unit could very well be the nation’s smallest drug-sniffing pooch.
McClelland began training Midge for drug-detecting duties when she was just 3 months old, after reading about departments being sued by suspects whose cars or homes were damaged by larger dogs.
Like many police departments, Geauga County has had German shepherds and Labrador retrievers for years. In fact, visitors often ask, “Is the big dog out?” — referring to 125-pound Brutus, says Lt. Tom McCaffrey, Brutus’ handler.
As for a Chihuahua-rat terrier like Midge working as a K-9, well, the president of the North American Police Work Dog Association, H.D. Bennett, says he’s never heard of a police dog so small it nearly fits in an outstretched palm.
That’s not stopping McClelland, who bought Midge from a co-worker’s relative and takes her everywhere with him — she even has a pair of goggles for rides on the sheriff’s motorcycle. On a recent day, she was curled in his lap, sporting a black “sheriff” vest over her brown-spotted white fur.
“She is very calm. She is not yappy. She likes people a lot, really loves kids,” he says as he strokes the dog.
Midge has helped boost the department’s relationship with the community. The tiny dog was grand marshal for a Memorial Day parade, wearing an American flag scarf while perched atop a motorcycle.
Sometimes you just can't win. No matter how many times you step up to the plate, no matter how many times you swing the bat, put yourself out there, or patiently wait. No matter how many games you play, sometimes you just can't win. And that's ok. Not everyone can be a winner all the time. But it would be nice for once to at least not strike out.
"When you do common things in life in an uncommon way, you will command the attention of the world." ~George Washington Carver
So nearly every day I run by this park a couple blocks down from the house. There's always something going on there, people playing tennis, soccer practice, etc. But my favorite thing to observe as I run by happens to be the pre-school/kindergarden baseball boys. These guys are no taller than my waist yet they are out there giving it all they got for the team. Well, sorta... The thing I like about watching this group is the fact that their parents are all out there with them. At this age, the kids can't be dropped off and picked up later. Everyone's there together teaching these kids how to swing a bat, just how it ought to be. Anyway, yesterday I hear one of the dads say, "Come on now, Johnny, stand up off the ground and stop playing in the dirt. We're here to play baseball." (Johnny continues to draw shapes on the ground.) Then a little bit later on my way back by I glance over and there's a kid who actually made contact with the ball and sent it to the outfield. The ball rolls past the "pitcher" and past the short stop. The short stop, upon seeing that he's missed the ball and that his rival is rounding second base, has to do something. So he promptly sticks his foot out in front of the runner and trips the kid, sending him flying across the ground toward third base. One of those moments that is hysterical, merely cause you know the child didn't have evil intent, he just didn't want the other boy to score a run. Priceless. Lesson to be learned from the pre-schoolers? It's probably not the best idea to trip others up when you make a mistake, but nor is it best to simply play in the dirt all day. Find a happy medium and just swing the bat. So much can be learned from innocent children. More of those to come, I am sure...
Here's the latest:
What a great weekend! Katy and her Mom were in town and we got to spend some great time together. I am only further reminded of the incredible strength and love of the Hill family. I'm always encouraged and uplifted in their presense. Joanne had come up for a missions conference regarding the South Pacific, and I was blessed to get to hear of her experiences and things she learned over the weekend. One thing she mentioned was that someone at the conference had said that Christians today need to seek "lost people" instead of "church people." I really like that.
Work has been pretty busy lately. Recent clients include ESPN, Hummer, NASCAR, Best Buy, the Poinsettia Bowl, the Tampa Police Department, McDonalds, and Verizon. Yes, even McDonalds is after a Fossil watch.
Be praying for a family in Canyon who lost their only 2 children in a car accident last week. Though I didn't know them, they were part of my old youth group and were killed on their way home from church on Wednesday. Around 1300 attented the funeral yesterday and the entire town, especially the church, has been affected by this.
Started reading Three by Ted Dekker this week. He is my hero. You must read his books if you haven't already. I've got a good reading list going, so feel free to add to if you know of any I need to check out.
Recent to the big screen is Flyboy. It's a good one if you're headed to the movies. I was also reminded this weekend of how good Tombstone is. Katy and I watched the last of it at the hotel. "Why, Johnny Ringo, just the man I was lookin' for..." A classic.
I'm here to inform you today that there are 3 food items that no human being should consume and allow passage into their body. Though there are more than 3, these items are specifically harmful to one's health and inhibit proper digestion. In order, as follows:
Splenda: While I have tried to make the switch over to this "healthier" substitute for sugar, it's been discovered that upon the substitution, everything that includes such a substance begins to taste like it as well. Example: ice cream. How can you mess up ice cream, you might ask? A worthy question. I answer with a shocking discovery: ice cream made with Splenda is disgusting. Suggestion:
Sauerkraut: "cabbage cut fine, salted, and allowed to ferment until sour" Any food product that is fermented and/or sour is not only bad for your system, it's downright gross. Once this stringy-like vegetable is added to, let's say, a sandwich, it cannot be removed as can pickles or other items and still be edible. No, the smell and taste contaminates the entire meal until you choose instead to steer clear. No amount of ketchup can cover for this one.
Swiss Cheese: the least aweful of the three, swiss cheese still makes the list. Perhaps it has something to do with the fact that it had sauerkraut flavor mixed in when I attempted it, but there's still something not quite right with a food that tastes like rubber. Granted, I've never tasted rubber before, but if I did, I know it would taste like swiss cheese.
Be forewarned, friends.
Finished reading Freedom of Simplicity this last weekend and enjoyed the perspective of it all. A lot of radical thoughts presented, good ones. Most striking to me were the following quotes of Foster:
1. "What is our world like? Nearly two and one-half billion are culturally outside the present scope of Christian witness. They die without hearing, without knowing."
Does this mean that there are people who have "heard" the message, yet are unable to see it put into action? Have they heard of Christianity and some man named Jesus yet have never gotten to witness love, kindness, and encouragement from another? That being the case, I am struck at such a statement for it is in witnessing the love of Jesus that people truly meet Him face to face. There's more to it than just telling people about Christ; we must be true witnesses of what it means to know Him.
2. "You know it is possible to say 'No,' and it is possible to say, 'Lord,' but it is not really possible to say, 'No, Lord.'"
Many thoughts have entered my mind regarding these words over the last week. So many in fact that they can't really be explained. I'll just let them speak for themselves. Blessings~
Ok, ok, so it's been a while, but let's be honest, there's only a miniscule group of people reading this, at least based on the 2 comments a century that I get on here. However, I'll give the benefit of a doubt that there are those (identity kept secret) who are afraid to comment because the computer is too "high-tech" of a thing and they're not sure how all of that works anyway. Whatever. But a disclaimer on my part, I still have no internet connection at home except for those rare moments such as this when I can tie up the phone line, and I'm guessing I might not be sticking around at Fossil too much longer if I was taking time to post from there. So there you have it. I do what I can.
For now, I'll give a brief version of the latest adventure at work. A week or so ago, we had our Annual Sales Meeting, a 3 day long event that I didn't understand half of. Or much of any of it actually. But one afternoon we had a team builder which apparently used to consist of going to a ropes course. Here a sigh of relief was breathed after it was announced that we were actually trying something different this year: our own version of the Amazing Race. Now for those of you who don't watch this show, we need to talk. Cause they don't call it amazing for nothing. Anyway, our 4 teams ventured out to follow clues, complete tasks, and buy watches all around the Dallas area. Our team traveled to GolfSmith where one of us had to hit a drive and another sink a 10 ft putt. (Got that one, being the golfer that I am...!) We journeyed to a new Fossil store to seek out a certain t-shirt and then on to an apartment complex where our clue was waiting at the bottom of the swimming pool. Finally, we all met up at a bowling alley where the first team to get 2 strikes won the race. A close second place we were. In conclusion, it was a great way to spend an afternoon of "work." But I do believe it has made my desire to actually be on the show that much stronger. Over 40,000 miles in 30 days, never knowing where you get to go next. Pretty incredible. Until then, tune in next Sunday night, 8:30 pm on CBS, for the season premiere. Should be amazing.
Week 1 and a half. Complete. And it's been pretty good. I'm now working in the Special Markets Division working up comps for clients who want their company logo on our watches, sunglasses, etc. That's the short version, the non-design lingo that most general public will comprehend. In addition to working for "Speedy" as it is deemed, I've gotten the priviledge of arranging 600+ watch tins in order on a huge display wall. Great fun... Anyway, we have this employee store at Fossil in which the company stocks items that are overflow or didn't sell or whatever and they discount everything HUGELY for all of us. So I got to go check it last Friday and it reminded me of a favorite elementary moment. Anyone remember Santa's Secret Shop back in the good ole days? I know Mom does because she still has nick-nacks from it displayed at home in all their glory. Since I didn't get into the payroll system at Fossil until this week, I couldn't buy anything last week at the store. It was a mere window shopping experience. Which is fine with me. The pink purses were horrendous. But I remember when December hit in elementary and everyone got their own cardboard gingerbread house bank to save up pennies for Santa's Shop. One day we'd all go to the shop, set up on the gym stage, "just to look" so we'd know what we wanted and how many quarters it would take to get that special "No Place Like Home" plastic window sign, perfect for my Mom's stocking. And after a century had passed, we were finally able to go back and make our purchases. But you had to be quick, for Suzy and Billy also had their eye on the soccer ball eraser that you wanted and there were only so many... And so, the Fossil employee store reminded me of fond memories of Santa's Secret Shop. Thought I'd reminisce a bit.
It's gonna be hard to catch up the last two weeks...Got moved to Richardson on Friday, started work at Fossil on Monday, and it's been fast and furious ever since. My computer isn't hooked up yet, so I'm about to go into deprevation over that. Better posts later. For now...
Things I won't miss about camp:
*sleeping on the breezeway and getting attached by rabid bugs
*sweating constantly, even in the shower
*crucifixion and all that entails
*ham
*middle-of-the-night bathroom runs
*counting kids constantly
*the heat (oh, wait, it was 106 here today...)
*licking my plate
*stairs
*the laundry room
Things I will miss about camp:
*playing with kids
*hiking with Brad into uncharted territory
*soccer games on the weekend
*worship every day
*being surrounded by 40 people my own age all the time
*clean-up and popcorn Friday night
*good conversations
*my best buds
*making lemonade for spa night with Katy
*Matilda, Willy Wonka, and Mike Wizowski
*Lacy's creepy running stories
*off nights with Chris and Stacey-even the unexpected ones!
*letters from home
*Death By Chocolate
*the kids stepping off the bus
*dance parties on the breezeway
*true fellowship
*chair stacking
*seeing kids grow up
*waking up at camp each morning
*pretty much everything not listed above...
Things I have learned since moving/starting work:
*enjoy the years at school, reality sets in soon enough
*get a map of the place you're working if it's big; that way it won't take you forever to find an exit
*if someone asks you for help, you should help them
*if someone wants to do things on their own, you should let them
*there are many, many people in the cubicles next to you who need to know God
*it is good to see/talk to people you haven't in a while
*missions is still on my heart and mind
*illustrator is much like freehand, praise the Lord
*sugar-free pie is just as amazing as with the sugar
*always have an air-vent in your bathroom
*reading is a luxury
*I miss people...a lot
*families take care of each other (thanks for the calls DM)
*it's time to start running
*don't take for granted having friends to go to church with; it's harder starting from scratch
*learning patience is an ongoing task...
**************************
Oh yeah, and I forgot to add that I will miss Grandma's cinnamon rolls and Granny Field's peanut butter cookies :) Feel free to add to the lists...
Camp is officially over. Well, is was on Saturday. There's a lot to be said about the summer. But it hasn't really hit me yet. So I'm moving to Dallas tomorrow, starting my internship on Monday. I'll post more about the summer when I get there. Until then, a quote from Oswald Chambers:
Naturally, we are inclined to be so mathematical and calculating that we look upon uncertainty as a bad thing. Certainty is the mark of the common sense life; gracious uncertainty is the mark of the spiritual life. To be certain of God means that we are uncertain in all our ways, we do not know what a day may bring forth. This is generally said with a sigh of sadness; it should rather be an expression of breathless expectation.
Be certain of God today.
Well, I wasn't going to post anything this weekend, cause I just don't have a lot to say. Or rather, I do, but couldn't ever put it all down in words. But I ran across this quote and thought I'd throw it in here:
"I have loved the feel of the green grass under my feet, and the sound of the running stream by my side, and the face of the fields has often comforted me more than the faces of men."
-John Burroughs, philosopher
Perhaps intended to be a bit depressing, but I see it as the fact that sometimes we can't explain everything that we feel and the only thing we can do is sit in the presense of God's creation and marvel that He is much bigger than everything going on. So from that viewpoint, I sorta like it.
Much going on this week. Last week of Camp of the Hills. 120 kids booked. Tired and ready to be finished, knowing it's time to move on. Last crucifixion, praise the Lord. Much transition ahead. And my best friends to say goodbye to, as well as this place. It's going to be tough. Many more stories from the summer to come, but for now, I believe I'll go do some marveling at the stars. After all, they serve no true purpose, God merely blessed us with their beauty because He loves us so much.
High school week is now complete, 67 campers have come and gone. The week went by relatively smoothly, as far as high school weeks have gone in the past. I was blessed in seeing campers that I've gotten to watch change and grow over the past three summers, some even longer as with the Impact kids. Having older kids can be a much greater challenge as they are more hardened to their world than the younger ones, everything is bigger-including the kids themselves!, and everything is much more dramatic; however, more blessings come from deeper conversations than with the younger kids, and I was certainly able to be apart of that this week. Those of us who have been out here for several summers were reminded of our purpose and great task in this place as Alexis Nicole Biggers stepped out of the van. Two summers ago Alexis was one crazy girl, constantly in trouble, frequently yelling some interesting choice words, not wanting to do anything that was asked of her. Last summer I had Alexis in my cabin and she was much improved, though certainly still had her moments and went on contract a time or two. This summer Alexis got off her van and proceeded to hug counselors that she knew and began to tell me about the new girls in her foster home and how her year had gone. I believe Alexis had a great week this summer, and it's been amazing to see her growth and maturity over the years. There are many stories like that that I wish I could share. Getting to see Zeke from Impact, whom I've known since he was around 8 years old...Autumn crying on Saturday morning, knowing what a safe place this is...Zephyr's letter of finding a place to belong...some unexpected events in the middle of the night early, early Saturday morning. I wish there was time to recount it all. But the moment that touched me most this week came from one of my girls, 16 year-old Heather. She was from the same home as Alexis, and we had many great conversations throughout the week. But Thursday night I walked into the cabin and she said, "Gretchen, will you adopt me? You're old enough to do that, right? Cause I need someone who will love me all the time, every day." Words can't really respond to that, but my heart sure did.
A few more pictures:
*week 5 is complete
*57 campers, only one sent home
*3 more weeks to go
*high schoolers coming this week, whole new ballgame
*trying to get over the perpetual sickness and hacking cough
*enjoyed a great match of soccer with 20 other counselors this afternoon
*DM and Em having a baby boy!
*working out living arrangements for August
*soaking up being around 40 friends/people my age...it's quickly coming to an end...
*learning to be patient...and finding out how frustrating that can be
*praying for Kirby, his Mom, and their family
*praising God for so many blessings, more than I can count
Well, believe it or not, I actually have somewhat of a plan after camp. Hard to fathom, I know. But I will be moving to Dallas (anyone know of good apartments/someone who needs a roomie?) and working at Fossil as a design intern. Yea! 3 months minimum, but we'll see what happens from there. I start on the 14th of August, so that'll be pretty soon after our last kids leave. It's time for reality...
Off week has been great, lots of time to rest, get sick, rest some more, family time, rest, and hang out with some pretty amazing people...
Here are some interesting comments on our crucifixion re-enactment at camp and here are some pictures from 1st half; hopefully there will be more to come...
I will never fail to be amazed at how quickly things can change in a single moment of time. I will never understand why things happen as they do. I will never understand the concept of 'bad things happening to good people.' I only understand that my worries and fears pale in comparison to those of others. And perhaps that's all I need to understand right now, to be humbled in my thinking and perspective. To know that I have nothing to complain about, no reason to not see how blessed I am. To remember that there is so much better than what this current life has to offer. To be reminded that God holds the future and that that is good enough for now.
370 campers have come and gone...Hard to believe the summer is halfway over! But praise God for off week, a time to rest, relax, and get filled back up for second half. Week 4 was the best by far, as we had 98 elementary kids and many more discipline problems than the previous weeks. Like Chris said on Saturday morning, it's the tough weeks that make it all worthwhile because the "good" kids could go to any other camp and do equally as well. It's the tough kids who would be kicked out the first day from other places that are able to find refuge at Camp of the Hills, and that's why we do what we do. That's what makes every moment, good or bad, worthwhile.
A friend asked me the other day what my favorite part was about COTH. It's the little moments, the meals you share with campers amazed to have so much food in front of them, the soccer game last Friday when everyone played so hard, watching faces light up at being able to fish and canoe for the first time, random hysterical comments that only a child could come up with, cardtricks and oragami for the weekly talent show, the times when campers open up to you and share their home lives, the time you look across the group at worship to find the child you least expected singing his heart out.
This last week I had a camper in my cabin named Ayisha, whom we called NaNa all week as her twin sister across the breezeway was named Aysha. NaNa was the typical 8 year old with a lot of energy and a little bit of whine mixed in. But she amazed me every day in Bible Study time at her knowledge of Bible stories and concepts well beyond her years. Thursday night after crucifixion as we discussed the events of the last hour, she continued to impress me as she related the entire story of Jesus on the road to Emmaus after his resurrection. And though the very next minute she merely wanted to know if "Jesus had bones," I was reminded of the innocence of these children, of what a huge opportunity and task we have been given in teaching them.
More stories to come, but for now it's off to Canyon for a few days to see the family. Blessings~
Well, Week 2 has come to an end which means the summer is 30% over...hard to believe. Over 170 kids have already come and gone. Lots of learning and excitement going on at camp as the new counselors start to get the swing of things and everyone adjusts to their roles. Here are a few highlights from the last two weeks:
*vaccuuming ants out of my car (thought of you, Abby!)
*watching a beautiful sunset on the backporch
*spa night with the girls
*seeing a fawn no bigger than a small cat while running one morning
*my first contracts
*middle-of-the-night bathroom runs every night this week, each time in which the camper didn't quite make it there on time...
*"hiking" down the ravine, or rather sliding down a huge rock slide with 17 8-10 year olds
*a rodeo show of ponies and a Brahma bull
*figuring out the best combination of butter and salt for our movie night popcorn (Seth and I should go to work for Cinemark)
*catching a lizard in our cabin while 7 10 year olds and co-counselors run around screaming
*ham steaks and "chicken & dumplings" (won't elaborate on that one)
*eating potatoes and beans for banquet as the chicken didn't get cooked (yes Mom, we did eat dessert first)
*RAIN Saturday morning, pouring rain as we attempted to separate bags of 85 campers on the front porch at 7:15 and get them loaded on time; another storm in the middle of last night
*soaking up as much quiet/alone time as I can on the weekends...I've come to crave it
Continue to pray for rain, for the middle schoolers coming tomorrow, for lots of energy, strength, confidence, and love. Be blessed this week!
Training week has flown by like never before! The arrival of new counselors as well as returners has been such a blessing and growing experience. There is much to look forward to in the coming weeks. Being on the crucifixion committee (part of a group selecting parts for our re-inactment) has stretched me in ways I never foresaw. It's always amazing to me how God can work through our inadequecies as Christians and help us grow in ways we would never imagine. Blessings abound through many smiling faces, hugs, early morning runs, midnight practice fire drills, beautiful singing, and much preparation. Please pray for rain and for the 100+ kids that will arrive tomorrow afternoon!
Well, I haven't updated in a while cause there just hasn't been a lot to say...but, it's finally here. Camp of the Hills is just around the corner as I'm packing my plastic bins and heading outta Canyon on Saturday. Yessssss..... Part of this was posted on another blog, but I thought I'd share some memories from previous summers and what I'm looking forward to this year.
There's no way to relate every story, every child, or every way camp has changed those who have been there. It has certainly changed my entire outlook and perspective on the physical and spiritual needs of so many people...but here's a small taste from 04 and 05...wasp killing or lack thereof, "The Ride," Robert's thumbs up during crucifixion one night, the Smithwick church, Death by Chocolate, the Oliver's rooster, color dance, ham logs and ham salad, the "flowers" week, Sam Adams, Cassandra, JaShaun, Hollie, Shakira, Poppy, Autumn, and TeT Petite to name a few, the first time I saw crucifixion and every time after that, the moments when I realized it's really about the resurrection, turtle hunting, two insane week 7's: one with Patsy and the girl's of G3 and one Wed. military night, SS retreats at the Germany's and Whitman's,...I look forward to meeting many new faces and seeing the ones I already know as well, listening to a child read out of the Bible for the first time, talks on the breezeway, challenges beyond any I've faced yet growing from them, Friday night banquets, watching the kids pile off the vans and not wanting to load back up on Saturday, enduring attitudes from a few campers knowing that you have the opportunity to pour the love of God out to them in exchange, watching the counselors give selfishly of themselves, witnessing the innocence of these children who have been through so much...
If there was any way to sum up what COTH means to me, it would be this: walking up to the front porch for the first time in May 04 knowing one person and intending to leave after 4 weeks and now being able to leave at the end of this summer 3 years later, having known the most amazing children, knowing God will carry on the work in the future no matter who's there... it's walking away having met my very best friends in this place, men and women of God who I will continue to have relationships with for years to come...it's the moments that you will never be able to relate to anyone other than those who lived through it with you...
Well, it's official. No more school for the rest of my life! I think I'm ok with that, really, though I'm not sure what to do now. I have all this free time for the next 10 days or so. Should be a wonderful time of relaxing and getting geared up for the summer. Some observations I've made over the last few days:
*Regardless of National Mom's Day, as Jayme would put it, I really do have the best Mom ever. Because not only is she my Mom and everything that encompasses, she's also my friend. I was very blessed to get to spend some great time with my family this weekend. They take good care of me and spoil me ridiculously, and I am indebted.
*Graduation was actually fun, the ceremony part. I figured it would be long and boring, but it really was kinda cool. Especially the part where Mom hooded me twice and butchered my cap before we got it right. ;) It was the after ceremony part that it finally hit me that everything was over. I'm so thankful for my opportunity to be at camp this summer with many of my favorite people, as it will provide a bit of transition time. Makes leaving Abilene a piece of cake...I think.
*I hate moving. It's a complete pain and annoyance. But I find the annoyance lies within myself at having so many things. I consider myself a pretty simple person, but after packing everything up...wow. It bothers me when I know so many people who don't even have pictures on their wall or a closet of clothes to choose from each morning as I do. Makes me disgusted and in need of simplification. Makes me not want to live in our American society of consumerism, working in a cubicle, catering to people with money who want to advertise their newest 'stuff' to further inhance their riches, while people blocks away are going hungry. *sigh*......
*Friends are amazing. How would we ever go through life without someone to lean on? There are those friends who are hurting and you don't know what to do to help, but just knowing you can sit and cry together is somehow healing. There are those that show up on your front porch bearing a chocolate shake and a smile just when you needed it. And there are those that you didn't even know you were that close to until you had to say goodbye. And you wonder what you'll do without them.
So I'm headed back to good 'ole Canyon for a bit until time to be out at camp. I'll have to post some COTH stories later....
I'm also inclined to feel incredibly grateful; thankful for the time I have been given with my Dad. Oh, how your perspective changes when you're struck again with how short life really is on this earth. So...Happy Late Birthday, Dad! (It was Monday) I have been so blessed in the memories we've shared together over the last 22 years. So here's some things I will always remember/love about my Dad...
*going to the Father/Daughter Valentine Banquet at church in elementary school
*cooking elk steak and deer sausage over our campfire in the backyard
*the day you surprised me and picked me up from school with our first horse Daisy
*the sandwich in the tree incident
*the way you put your family first before your job
*picking corn at Granny and PaPa's farm, chopping corn worms and then carrying that tradition on to our own garden
*how proud you are of your tractor and how you'd really be quite satisfied to be a simple farmer
*how much you love that puppy
*how you get us to the ski slopes a couple hours early just so we won't miss a single minute
*how you take care of the 'ole Exploder
*how you know the importance of escaping into the wilderness every year and find such joy in your adventures
*how much care you take in building a campfire, pitching a tent, and reading maps and how you've taught us those things too
*how we're gonna be on the Amazing Race together someday
*the little gifts you give Mom just because
*how you brought back purpleheart wood from Guyana and worked hours to make me a special box
*wahoo battles
*the time we rode in the rain in the Pecos
*playing spades and usually winning when DM went blind nello every hand
*pushing me on a swing as a little tyke
*our outing in Albuquerque one year instead of my going to prom
*how hard you work for the church youth group even after DM and I have left
*riding in Palo Duro and Caprock Canyon
*how you don't really like to smile in pictures
*Saturday morning omelets and burritoes
*our love for blackberries and blueberries
*your love of Western movies and terrible classic country music
*how excited you get over your "Santa" gift each Christmas
*how you encouraged me in training for the marathon and ran along with me during the race
*your constant love and support
Oh, how I could continue for quite some time... love you Dad.
A lot has happened in the last week, yet I don't feel like I have much to say. This past weekend has left me drained and confused. I don't even know what to feel really. I'm inclined to feel sad of course. I'm inclined to feel shocked. I'm inclined to feel angry and bitter. I'm inclined to not understand why God would take from such an amazing family, of all people, and why it's the second time this has happened this semester. I'm inclined to much questioning. Continue to lift up the Hill family in your prayers, as they will need support not just now but especially in the months to come.
Last night I joined a few hundred people on a walk to downtown Abilene, sleeping bag in tow. We gathered in a parking lot to sleep for the night, and in doing so, joined tens of thousands of children in Northern Uganda who commute nightly to escape abduction by the rebel army in their country. People in over 130 cities across the country participated in the Global Night Commute to help raise awareness of the situation these children are facing daily. We wrote letters to President Bush and our Senators to tell them why our nation needs to get involved in the lives of the Invisible Children and the war in Uganda. It was really neat to be apart of this event, and I certainly had some interesting thoughts throughout the night.
However, as I was sitting down on the pavement writing my letters with others sleeping around me it occured to me that though we were there 'laying down with the children,' we remained separated by one thing: fear. See, the Ugandan children commute in order to save their very lives, to keep from being forced to fight and kill others. And though we were merely being symbolic in our actions last night, we were able to walk down the street, gather together, laugh and hang out for a few hours, and sleep in peace. We were able to get up this morning and return to our homes and continue on with our lives, not afraid of having to do it all over again come sunset. How much to we take for granted the fact that we can rise each morning and know that our needs will be met for the day, and we don't have to worry about being recruiting for violent action. In fact, we don't have to worry about much except whether to wear the blue or green shirt, whether or not we liked the songs sung at church Sunday morning, and what to eat for supper. That's the beauty of America, right? Land of the free? Cause we've already fought our way to the top, we've already 'won our freedom,' we're all set, so we can go about our lives in comfort and confidence.
But have we thought about why God has allowed us to be so blessed? Could it be that He intended that those who have been given much ought to in turn give graciously to others? Could it be that we are to do all we can to give freedom and hope to those such as the children in Uganda? Even more so, could it be that we should equally open our eyes to those in our own country and reach out to set free those in bondage from their daily struggles and pain? Could it be that there are people next door to you that need a way out of the fear that they live in? Could it be that you have an answer to such freedom?
So I went to the Casting Crowns concert Monday night and have done some thinking. The concert was pretty good overall, the music was incredible, and I really think the musicians had a lot of great things to say through their lyrics. I like that they took some time to explain why they'd written certain songs and where their inspiration came from.
However, I was a bit thrown off in hearing Tony Nolan. Nolan is the Lifesong 'Tour Pastor and Gospel Communicator'. This was a new one for me, I didn't really know what that meant, but apparently he goes on tour with the bands and has a little preaching time during each concert. Well, preach he did... Now this is not me going off on whether I think his words were right or wrong, whether it was 'devout' or 'biblically' correct, merely some thought-provoking ideas since I haven't gotten into that much on here.
So Tony got up there after a few songs and basically talked about the importance of making a decision for Jesus verses going to hell, etc. (motivational speaker style) and ended with asking everyone to repeat a prayer out loud and stand up to proclaim Jesus as their Savior if they felt moved to do so, to make a decision for Jesus; if not, you merely stayed sitting down. For those standing up, he congratulated them on the decision that they made and proceeded to hand out some kind of pamphlet as a follow up. So I went to Nolan's website to see what the 7 day follow up consisted of. Basically, it's a 'jumpstart', a step each day of prayer, avoiding sin, singing, reading your Bible, getting involved with a community of believers, letting go of secret sin, and glorifying God--all while endorsing Casting Crowns and Nolan's journals and messages--ending with "keep this stuff going on in your life and things are going to be awesome." Interesting.
I think Nolan has a lot of good things to say. I really do. I'm not doubting his theological base, cause I agree that these things are all important. But there's something about the whole thing that rubs me the wrong way, though I can't yet put my finger on exactly what that may be. Perhaps it's the way he delivered his message and proclaimed hundreds of people 'saved and going to Heaven' after 10 minutes at an assembly of musical entertainment, and additionally proclaims on his website that '36,000 people have been saved' due to this preaching on the concert tour. (A little fake revivalism, or could that be paralleled to Jesus preaching and thousands being 'added to their number that day'?) Perhaps it's the fact that I don't feel the need to stand up and be separated in a crowd to tell those 'sitting down' that I'm a believer; I want people to know that I am by how I live my life. Perhaps it's because the entire thing came off to me as an evangelical sermon off the latest religious tv channel. But I just think there's more to it than that. There's more to Christianity than a quick-fix of a few simple steps. Is the message of Jesus simple? Sure. But it's not exactly a random decision/action in a momentary high to claim an automatic ticket to Heaven. I'm not one to judge the actions and hearts of people or their intentions, nor attempting to get into the baptism/sinner's prayer/being saved bit by any means. That's up to the far greater Judge. But I'm interested to hear some other opinions on this. Granted, most of you reading this weren't at the concert but what's your take on it? Is the idea of such a message valid? Would it make a difference if the tour is trying to target unbelievers and at least share the message with them or if they're trying to reach the 'church crowd'? I encourage you to look at Nolan's website and check out his 7-day devotional document and consider it. Just thought I'd throw that out there, see if we can get some feedback....
Wow, what a weekend.... full of much-needed quality family time (beautiful roses, breakfast with M & Glenn, walking the dogs, church together Sunday morn, and good conversation), allergies (the meds finally kicked in today), talking with friends I hadn't seen in a while (surprises, coldstone, the lake, a little golf, a concert or two, and some prayer time), beginning to catch up on sleep (by skipping more class...), and most of all, not a single bit of schoolwork (well, til final projects). Senior Show turned out great, better than I hoped for. Thanks to everyone who came; I was blessed to have so many friends and family come and support me and my crazy artwork. The only thing that could've made it better was to have it last longer. Seems like you work so hard for so long and then suddenly it's all over with so fast. I think I've been feeling that a lot lately. Graduation looms near, less than 3 weeks, and it's hard to think about leaving all of this for I don't even know what yet! Things have slowed down so much in the last few days, and I am incredibly grateful for that. Just a few projects left to throw together for finals and it'll be time to walk across that stage. But I've decided that school takes the backseat from here on out, cause at this point, well....who really cares? So the next three weeks will be devoted to A) finding a job and trying to plan the next steps in life, B) spending as much time as I possibly can with friends who I will miss greatly in a few weeks, C) hopefully getting back to a consistant schedule of sleeping, eating, and running, and D) getting my heart and mind ready for the most amazing summer of my life. So here we go...
Exciting news of the week: I'm gonna be an aunt! That's right, DM and Em are gonna have a baby around the end of November. How exciting it is to think that we'll soon have a new addition to the Nickson clan! Just when we thought the dogs were enough to keep up with... Please keep the new little one in your prayers, as well as the proud parents.
We fail to realize sometimes how blessed we are to be able to raise a child in a good Christian home. To know that God-willing that child will be able to grow up healthy, eat three meals a day, go to school, have the support of both parents, be able to go to the doctor when needed, and live in a safe house. But what about the children who aren't priveleged to those things? Some food for thought....
28% of children under 18 in the US live in a single-parent household
Number of children in the world: 2.2 billion
Number in poverty: 1 billion (every second child)
30,000 children die each day due to poverty
For the 1.9 billion children from the developing world, there are:
640 million without adequate shelter (1 in 3)
400 million with no access to safe water (1 in 5)
270 million with no access to health services (1 in 7)
Children out of education worldwide: 121 million
Also found this of interest...
Global Priority in $U.S. Billions
Cosmetics in the United States:8
Ice cream in Europe:11
Perfumes in Europe and the United States:12
Pet foods in Europe and the United States:17
Business entertainment in Japan:35
Cigarettes in Europe:50
Alcoholic drinks in Europe:105
Narcotics drugs in the world:400
Military spending in the world:780
And compare that to what was estimated as additional costs to achieve universal access to basic social services in all developing countries:
Global Priority in $U.S. Billions
Basic education for all:6
Water and sanitation for all:9
Reproductive health for all women:12
Basic health and nutrition:13
Hmmm......
Easter has come and gone, and I'm currently trying to throw everything together for my Senior Show on Friday night. It will be worth the work, but such a relief to have over with. Finished my series tonight which is a huge milestone, and I am excited to see what others will think of it. The last few days have been difficult. Lots of unexpected things happened that left me feeling like I'd been run over by a truck. Not always the best feeling. But I guess I can sum it all up by saying that people make mistakes. Everyone does. And that's ok because if we were all perfect, we wouldn't need to rely on God. But the tough part about messing up is that you can never undo what's been done. Can't take away the words you said that you maybe should've kept to yourself, the doubts that ran through your mind, your actions and later guilt. But praise God for helping us grow in these situations. For teaching us to value our friendships and a listening ear, for showing us that we still have a lot to learn, for giving us such amazing grace. So after today, I can only say that in regards to situation 1: I'm sorry it happened and I earnestly hope this won't change anything. Godly friends are rare, and I aim to keep the ones I have been blessed with, regardless. And as for situation 2: I'm here for you, you were forgiven before it even happened, and the grace of God is astounding. Best part about mistakes is that we get to wake up in the morning and start all over, and as we learn, we draw nearer to God every moment. I do like that part very much.
I'm remembering past Easter moments....egg hunting with the cousins...thinking the "Easter Bunny" at the mall was always really creepy...counting hats at church Sunday morning...my grandmother M painting a different wooden egg for each of the grandkids with our favorite cartoon charactor or animal on it...taking pictures in our Easter finest...and then there was that one year when the meaning of Easter became real to me for the first time.
I was on a junior high retreat at our youth minister's parents' house out in the country somewhere. We'd gone to hang out for the weekend, attempted to sleep outside under the stars and got rained on in the middle of the night. (All those great youth group moments.) Then Sunday morning our youth minister Brad had hidden plastic eggs all over the house and yard area for us to find. So we hunted down all the eggs, brought them back inside and realized they were numbered on the outside. Brad proceeded with a devo using the eggs to illustrate the life of Jesus. One by one, each egg was opened in order, revealing something that symbolized a part of the life of Jesus--some straw for a manger, a plastic lamb, a nail. But then there was the last egg. And it was empty. Of course it stood for the empty tomb, and I can't remember all that was said in the lesson, but for some reason that empty egg made am impact on me. Years later, after being at Camp of the Hills and witnessing the reenactment of the crucifixion and resurrection, the story of the risen Christ is more real than ever before. For it's not in the crucifixion that we put our hope in everyday, though it's quite important, but rather in that morning 3 days later. It's a shame that we focus so much on the death of Jesus rather than his defiance of death. Perhaps that's why we so often lose our joy unless we're reminded of it with eggs, hats, and bunnies. So even though this weekend will be full of those things, remember the power of our Risen Lord on Monday morning....in a month....in October....everyday....
So I was driving home from New Life tonight around 8:15. But it wasn't just the average Tuesday night drive. I got to witness one of the most beautiful sunsets ever. Now, I'm a sucker for sunsets and to be honest, they're not so good in the city. If you're going to truely appreciate God painting the sky, you better be out in the country or in the mountains where there are no power lines within at least 20 miles. But I was struck by the image that God saw fit to put in my day to cause me to pause and be reminded of His presence.
Later this evening I got a phone call from a friend who's really having a hard time right now. 19, parents are split up, financially responsible for a lot of things that he shouldn't have to be worried about right now, longing for so much more; yet he has the greatest outlook on life of just about anyone I've known. He's so positive about the situation he finds himself in and just lives for finding out how God will use him next. I also think of some kids from camp and the situations they've been dealt, the ones put in homes or born into a lifestyle completely out of their control, yet who do long to do what is right. And the question continues to resurface in my mind, Why? Why is it that those who are most faithful to God have to struggle so much, yet those who seem to have everything don't care at all?
And I think God answers in His own unique way. He reminds me that once again we must learn that life is not fair. That we are here to help the very people who need it most with the blessings we've been given. We must learn that the more we come to despise the ways of the world and the way Satan attacks people, the more we'll long for God's ways and look forward to our Heavenly home. And finally, God put a beautiful sunset in the sky tonight to remind us once more of His faithfulness.
I hate being so busy. I hate that school has to consume me right now. I hate that 2 am has become an early bedtime. I hate having to drag myself out of bed and straight to the coffee pot every morning. I hate how I've put time with God aside and how my Tuesday night Bible class has become a requirement instead of something to look forward to. I hate having to miss weekly dinner at DM and Em's. I hate not having time to sit down and share a meal with my roommates or friends. But most of all, I hate how selfish the last two weeks have made me. How I've been so enamored with getting my own things done, that I've forgotten to stop and ask others about their daily walk. To encourage those that just need a kind word and to simply be there to listen. I've grown selfish.
So to my roommates . . . couldn't have made it through the last two weeks without you guys; the cheesy chicken awaits us . . . as does 'National Mom's Day'! To the fam . . . you guys are amazing, thanks for the blueprints-for my project and for life. Happy Birthday to Stacey! Blessings to you! Chris, hope the soccer game was sick. Katy . . . my confidante and uplifter, the horse whisperer is in full force and Rosewood is all around you. Hi to M and Glenn . . . can't wait to see the new place. To an anonymous art teacher . . . this is ridiculous. Abbbbbyyyyyyy!!!! Hats off to the gormet chef. Ben . . . what are we doing with our lives? Amazing things, I am certain. And to everyone . . . Thanks for bearing with me amidst the stress. And . . . how was your day? What can I do to help you or pray about for you? Much love.
Finally have a moment to sit down and relay some hightlights of our Spring Break Campaign to Boulder, Colorado. Enjoyed being around such an amazing and diverse group of people; I know I haven't laughed that hard, that much, in a long time! So here are a few bits and pieces from the trip:
*4" of snow Sunday when we got there; driving the 15 passenger van on the ice
*hubcaps and the parking brake on the mini-van: full-coverage!
*boys staying at a 1.25 million dollar house
*walkie-talkies and driving in downtown Denver
*Sandy, the hugh German Shepard lion of our host family
*fitting 8-10 people in an elevator
*cleaning up a playground at the Acorn School
*hanging out with kids at the Mountain States Children's Home
*cooking 100+ pancakes in 20 minutes at the Homeless Shelter
*chocolate cake everywhere we went
*surveys at CU campus
*baby snake spaghetti
*the 7th grade dating game
*painting a bathroom with 5 coats of Kilz at Attention homes b/c paint tends to turn to a cottage cheese-like substance when it is frozen
*serving a meal with Dry Bones to about 40 homeless teens
*13th Street is not the same as 13th Avenue
*the British Pub
*12 hour drives and 3 drivers
*and not to be left out, "Dude, that's messed up!"
Usually I like storms, I really do. I love listening to rain on a tin roof and the smell when you step outside right after a downpour...the feeling of being all bundled up in front of the fireplace with a good book or movie when it's thundering like crazy outside...watching a lightning storm flash across the sky...jumping through puddles and splashing mud everywhere. Can't go wrong with a good rain storm. But there are other kinds of storms in life as well. There are those that hit you when you least expect it and those that you kinda saw coming all along. This week has been a total storm for me. After coming back from a wonderful Spring Break, the curse of the portfolio hit me head on. I seem to have at least come out of all of that alive and in one piece (though it's not over yet), but there have been many questionable moments. On top of that, a few other situations came up this week that made me realize that I just have to let go of some things. Letting go isn't an easy thing to do, for it takes great trust when things are completely out of your control. It takes knowing that God has so much more planned than what is right in front of you at the moment. It takes giving up what you think you want and what you know you can't have. But it takes more than I can give right now. So in the midst of the downpour...a simple song...
Casting Crowns
Praise You In This Storm
i was sure by now
that you would have reached down
and wiped our tears away
stepped in and saved the day
but once again, i say "amen", and it's still raining
as the thunder rolls, i barely hear your
whisper through the rain, "i'm with you"
and as you mercy falls, i raise my hands
and praise the god who gives and takes away
i'll praise you in this storm
and i will lift my hands
for you are who you are
no matter where i am
every tear i've cried
you hold in your hand
you never left my side
and though my heart is torn
i will praise you in this storm
i remember when
i stumbled in the wind
you heard my cry
you raised me up again
my strength is almost gone
how can i carry on
if i can't find you
i lift my eyes unto the hills
where does my help come from?
my help comes from the Lord
the maker of heaven and earth
Well, it's 2:15 AM and my portfolio is done...sort of. You see, I didn't take into account the fact that I needed extra matte board in case I messed up. Apparently I figured that wouldn't happen. I don't mess up, right? Ha. Hahahaha. Anyway, it'll get me by for tomorrow and then I'll be busting it til next Wednesday to get ready for the big conference. Fun times ahead, my friends. This could be the earliest night of the week, so get ready. So Spring Break was amazing. Not at all what I thought it would be going into it and way different compared to last year, but outstanding and super fun nonetheless. Spent the week with a lot of great people and got to experience many things that made me appreciate what God has so graciously blessed me with. Lots of stories to share and pictures to show....but later it will have to be. For now I'm off to find my pillow amidst the chaos....
Well, it's been a tough week. Compiling 3 years of work into an 11x14 box in a week's time and making it look good is a daunting task, not to mention the fact that a good portion of your future depends on it. But by tomorrow night, I aim to have my portfolio printed and ready to be mounted in time for Tuesday's due date. I believe it can be done. Granted that's only round one, but one step at a time, right? So the end is finally in sight after a little sleep and a lot of coffee. It will be wonderful to walk away from it all next week for a little time near the mountains. Boulder, Colorado is about to be invaded by 15 very diverse people who don't have a clue what they'll be doing upon arrival, but who are excited and willing to serve in whatever ways God reveals. It's gonna be an adventure and one that I'm looking forward to more and more. In other realms, camp plans are coming along for the summer as the count-down continues. (See Drew for further details on the exact number.) I know this summer will prove to be a greater challange than I could ever anticipate, but one that will stretch me and bring about amazing growth. So much to look forward to in the coming months. God is good!
Sitting here in the art lab working on my portfolio and website, when it's absolutely beautiful outside. I should certainly be sitting at the park reading a book instead. Can't help but wonder if all this work is worth it, or if I'll end up doing something totally different not even related to InDesign, JPEGs, and Coding. Halfway hoping that I will. And I'm reminded of this song by The Afters. Only God knows. I just wish He'd enlighten me a little. Just a little.
Love Lead Me On
Someday I'm gonna go out to the country
I'll drive til the highway ends
Chasing after picture perfect sunsets
To take my breath away
I'm tired of living in the city
The world's got me tied on a string
Wanderlust has overcome me
Like Lewis and Clark I'll dream
There's a million different ways to go
Only God can know where I will call my home
~Chorus~
Love lead me on
Where no one else has gone
Faith keep me strong
Love lead me on
The open road can be so lonely
I'm longing for someone to love
If only I could share my new surroundings
Open the doors above
There's a million different ways to go
Only God can know where I will call my home
~Chorus~
Faith keep me strong
Love lead me home
Perspective is a funny thing to me. It's that moment when we step outside our everyday routine and see a picture beyond the norm. The moment that we can scarcely begin to get a glimpse of the awe-inspiring God who created such small insignificant beings. It's through our out-of-the-ordinary experiences in life that we can only hope to gain such insight into our Savior. Perhaps it's by getting outside our comforts zones and doing things we would never imagine doing otherwise--skydiving, persay. Maybe it's going on a mission trip and experiencing another culture and a new language. It could be trying to reach an understanding of the economic status of children living in the 3rd Ward in downtown Houston and realizing that not much separates us from them. Or maybe the experience is getting that phone call that there's been an accident, that things aren't going how the doctors first predicted, that life isn't working out quite how you wanted it to. Whatever it is, there are those life-changing moments that strike us and cause us to pause in our day. And it's then that I wonder what God sees, what His perspective is. Cause I would give a lot to be able to see what He sees, to see the outcome of the impossible situation, the end result, the 'gold at the end of the rainbow.' How amazing it would be to truly understand that all the little moments really don't matter because you've actually seen and know that they don't. I think we would live life so differently if only we could truly perceive more than our human eyes focus on from day to day. But then, I guess that's why God gives us those moments, whether good or bad in our eyes. To give us that little bit of perspective that we seem to lose from day to day. For those are the experiences that we remember, the times we keep revisiting in our minds, the ones that stick with us through the drudge of a long day. They are the moments that define our character and strength and give us an opportunity to change ourselves and the lives of those we encounter. To put our trust in God completely, knowing that though we may see but a glimpse, He always sees it all. So learn to rejoice in the good and the bad, to savor those moments of clarity, and remember that there are things in life so much bigger and greater than ourselves.
Had a wonderful weekend at the Whitman's. What a blessing to get to 'retreat' for a weekend of wonderful fellowship and planning time for Camp of the Hills. Jammin' House was pretty good eatin', but the company could not be topped.
Today has been claimed as a new holiday. That's right, today is National Stay-Home-and-Play-With-Your-Puppy Day. The Nicksons have a new addition to the family. Friday night Jessie, now about 7 weeks old, joined the ranks for a life of playtime with the famous rubber chicken, puppy boot camp (as we like to call it), and lots of love. So Dad decided to claim this holiday to help get Jessie more 'acclimated' to her new home surroundings. And from what I hear, tomorrow may be Take-Your-New-Puppy-to-Work-Day. You'd think there was a new child in the family... Too bad she'll be as big as a bear when I get to see her. Welcome to the clan, Jess.
Well, I'm going to attempt to actually keep this one up. No promises, but we'll see how it goes. Without further ado, on to the first entry...
For today, I must dedicate this entry to coaches. In 7th grade there was Coach R, who after watching me attempt the high jump bar backward quickly sent me to try out for hurdles. Coach K picked up from there and instilled in me the love of running, whether that meant you tripped on a hurdle and went flying head over heels right in front of the cute 8th grade boy, or whether you were a natural star, like my good friend Jennifer. Then came the high school days and Coach W. One of those people who was your best friend if you were really good, but made your life miserable if you weren't naturally amazing, despite how hard you were willing to work. I was miserable. One day I remember she hid golf balls miles out in the country and we had to each run and bring one back so she would know we completed the run. Enter Coach C. She was the best sprinter coach one could wish for. Knew what she was talking about, got out on the track and ran with you, encouraged and saw potential in everyone. But she was never head coach and therefore could make no decisions. And then there was Coach H, who was also my Pre-Cal teacher. No bigger around than a toothpick and barely older than we were, H. had no business being a track coach. She literally carried around this book "How to Coach Track and Field" to all of our practices. In our Pre-Cal class one day, the lesson was on how amazing she was because she had just run in the Boston Marathon. She set up a TV so we could watch parts of the race she had taped. Anyway, coaches are pretty ridiculous a good majority of the time.
So this last Sunday I ran my first marathon in Austin. It was pretty amazing, aside from the fact that it was 30 degrees outside. But as I trained for the race over the last several months, I have to admit a good part of my motivation was to prove past coaches wrong when they told me I couldn't run. But I certainly didn't do this alone. I had my family and friends rooting for me all along the way. And those people are the reason you keep going at mile 20 when you're ready to give it up. You keep going for the people who brave the weather to watch you run and cheer you on in neon orange bandanas. (Thanks, Mom, DM, Em, and Bullet.) You keep going for the one who bailed out of the car on the highway to go with you to the starting line and make sure you got there on time. (Thanks, Dad.) You keep going because of the people who asked how training was going and encouraged you every step of the way for 13 weeks. Those who called you the day before the race to give last minute advice and talk through race strategies because they'd been through it all before. And for those who were the first call you got after the race to see how you did and congratulate your finish. So thanks, Coach. Here's to the next race....
