So, this whole resolution thing isn't going well. I've got a lot of catching up to do AND my plan to write once a week (at least) fell through when I didn't write yesterday.
I'm sitting on Violet and Jordan's couch playing on Facebook while Violet is working diligently on her blog. She's nearly falling asleep waiting for photos to upload and she says, "My kids can never say I didn't work on our genealogy". I agreed with her and offered up the fact that I'm a slacker to help her feel better. What happened next was a bit of nagging for the next few minutes until I pulled up a new window and accessed my blog. So, be proud Violet!
Now that I've shared that story, I don't really know what else to write about. Until next time...
Monday, April 30, 2012
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
The Miracle of Counseling Theory
I'm in the process of updating my blog, so this is going to jump a bit into the future for the time being...but I can't help myself. I've got to write down what happened and how I'm feeling while it's fresh!
This semester has been...rough. In fairness, it was advertised as being rough. The word around the Counseling program is that the semester you take Counseling Theory (typically your 2nd or 3rd semester) is the worst of all. I understand why. That class has been the worst experience! The whole mess started back in the Fall when it was announced that the class was at max capacity and there was a pretty long waiting list. Frustrations were all over the department because this class is a pre-req for Practicum and Internship. Long story short, they ended up doing overrides for everyone who needed the class. Suddenly a class that was intended for 20 students had 43! Changes had to be made to accommodate that many students. I don't know how the class normally goes, but we received very little instruction over the course of the semester.
We took the midterm...I got a 68. Not good.
People started stressing out. Still a lack of instruction and communication about requirements for a project we had to complete. Nothing. Today was the Final exam. I was super anxious and said a prayer in my car before going in to class. My nerves were calmed and that familiar feeling of peace came over me. I felt like things would be okay. I walked in and took the test.
BRUTAL.
I walked out of class knowing I failed. Feeling of calm and peace? Gone. I then spent the next 6 hours pondering my future in the face of a likely F in that class. Would they kick me out of the program? Would I have to retake the class? Should I start applying for jobs?
A few minutes ago I was finally able to bring myself to check my syllabus and figure out my grade. Check and see exactly what damage was going to be done. This is what I discovered...see if you can follow me...
There are 100 possible points in the class. To this moment, I have secured 53.6. To pass the class I need 70 points...which means I lack 16.4. We have our Final and a Project still outstanding (45 total points) and a 10 point extra credit assignment. SO. There are 55 points still up for grabs and I need 16.4. The relief that I felt at the moment that I realized I can (and should) fairly easily get a C in that class was tremendous.
I've seriously said about 3 prayers of gratitude. I can't express how grateful I am to know that I have a loving Heavenly Father who knows me and looks out for me. I can see His hand in the daily things of my life. This is just one example of many but was SO BIG for me at this moment that I had to write it down. Relief. And incredible gratitude.
This semester has been...rough. In fairness, it was advertised as being rough. The word around the Counseling program is that the semester you take Counseling Theory (typically your 2nd or 3rd semester) is the worst of all. I understand why. That class has been the worst experience! The whole mess started back in the Fall when it was announced that the class was at max capacity and there was a pretty long waiting list. Frustrations were all over the department because this class is a pre-req for Practicum and Internship. Long story short, they ended up doing overrides for everyone who needed the class. Suddenly a class that was intended for 20 students had 43! Changes had to be made to accommodate that many students. I don't know how the class normally goes, but we received very little instruction over the course of the semester.
We took the midterm...I got a 68. Not good.
People started stressing out. Still a lack of instruction and communication about requirements for a project we had to complete. Nothing. Today was the Final exam. I was super anxious and said a prayer in my car before going in to class. My nerves were calmed and that familiar feeling of peace came over me. I felt like things would be okay. I walked in and took the test.
BRUTAL.
I walked out of class knowing I failed. Feeling of calm and peace? Gone. I then spent the next 6 hours pondering my future in the face of a likely F in that class. Would they kick me out of the program? Would I have to retake the class? Should I start applying for jobs?
A few minutes ago I was finally able to bring myself to check my syllabus and figure out my grade. Check and see exactly what damage was going to be done. This is what I discovered...see if you can follow me...
There are 100 possible points in the class. To this moment, I have secured 53.6. To pass the class I need 70 points...which means I lack 16.4. We have our Final and a Project still outstanding (45 total points) and a 10 point extra credit assignment. SO. There are 55 points still up for grabs and I need 16.4. The relief that I felt at the moment that I realized I can (and should) fairly easily get a C in that class was tremendous.
I've seriously said about 3 prayers of gratitude. I can't express how grateful I am to know that I have a loving Heavenly Father who knows me and looks out for me. I can see His hand in the daily things of my life. This is just one example of many but was SO BIG for me at this moment that I had to write it down. Relief. And incredible gratitude.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Tallahassee YSA Conference
In an effort to meet more people, Joseph and I decided to start going to more YSA stuff across our region. I got word of a YSA Conference down in Tallahassee (thanks to several of my EFY pals!!) and we made a plan to go. Dennis came along and we ended up having a great time!
After a later start than we planned on, we finally left Columbus on Friday evening. We got to Tallahassee in time to enjoy the last couple of hours of the Dance and then go back to the hotel and sleep. To be honest, I don't remember much about the conversation after we returned to the hotel. I was beat from drive!
We woke up Saturday morning and got ready for the day. Well, Dennis woke up first and was all dressed up by the time Joseph and I woke up. The first spoken words that morning were when Joseph opened his eyes and saw Dennis in his Sunday best, "Daaaaaaaaang Dennis! I wish I was as fly as you..."
The morning was filled with awesome workshops (for the most part). At lunch time, we decided to take a side trip. Dennis, being from California has never seen the Atlantic Ocean (more specifically the GULF) so we set out to find a beach. It proved more difficult than we thought but just an hour away we found a State Park and got some pretty awesome pictures out of it.
After a later start than we planned on, we finally left Columbus on Friday evening. We got to Tallahassee in time to enjoy the last couple of hours of the Dance and then go back to the hotel and sleep. To be honest, I don't remember much about the conversation after we returned to the hotel. I was beat from drive!
We woke up Saturday morning and got ready for the day. Well, Dennis woke up first and was all dressed up by the time Joseph and I woke up. The first spoken words that morning were when Joseph opened his eyes and saw Dennis in his Sunday best, "Daaaaaaaaang Dennis! I wish I was as fly as you..."
The morning was filled with awesome workshops (for the most part). At lunch time, we decided to take a side trip. Dennis, being from California has never seen the Atlantic Ocean (more specifically the GULF) so we set out to find a beach. It proved more difficult than we thought but just an hour away we found a State Park and got some pretty awesome pictures out of it.
St. Mark's Lighthouse
From another angle.
Silly boys on the beach.
We made it back in time to get ready and then enjoy the dance party before heading home!
I loved getting to see Carla!
Mini-reunion!
Maybe the DJ played "We Like to Party" and maybe we did the line dance...but only maybe. :)
Awesome weekend filled with good times, great spiritual messages and excellent friends!
Friday, January 6, 2012
Friendiversary!!
January 6th is a busy, happy day! Not only is it the birthday of a certain special little boy (who might've gotten his own post a few minutes ago)...but this year it's also one year exactly from the first time that I hung out with a family that has very quickly become like my own.
In January 2011 I had been back in Georgia not quite a month when Violet and I had a conversation (over facebook) which ended with me being invited over for Dinner on Aaron's Birthday. Pizza, cake, Despicable Me, some conversation, and a particularly embarrassing phone call from my Dad later...I think we were well on our way to being friends. :)
I'm so grateful for the kindness and love that's been shown to me by all the members of the Barnes family (and their relatives)! They're truly some of the best people I know. One of my favorite things about this situation is that I can call each member of this family "friend".
It took longer for some than others to get on board with that relationship...
I'm especially grateful for the friend that I've found in Violet. I've been blessed in so many ways because of my association with her.
I don't think I can really put into words just how much I admire, love and appreciate her. She is, in so many ways exactly what I think a "best friend" should be. She's kind and tender, but also strong and firm. She helps guide me (mostly by her example) to be better than I am. She's understanding and thoughtful. She's trustworthy and loyal. She is so many things that I want to be one day. For now, I'll just have to settle for being around and learning from her. It's so nice when you can recognize the Lord's hand in all the different areas of your life. I was blessed more than I deserve when He saw fit to place her (and her family) in my life.
In January 2011 I had been back in Georgia not quite a month when Violet and I had a conversation (over facebook) which ended with me being invited over for Dinner on Aaron's Birthday. Pizza, cake, Despicable Me, some conversation, and a particularly embarrassing phone call from my Dad later...I think we were well on our way to being friends. :)
I'm so grateful for the kindness and love that's been shown to me by all the members of the Barnes family (and their relatives)! They're truly some of the best people I know. One of my favorite things about this situation is that I can call each member of this family "friend".
It took longer for some than others to get on board with that relationship...
Yes, I'm looking at you with that one, Maecie.
I'm especially grateful for the friend that I've found in Violet. I've been blessed in so many ways because of my association with her.
I don't think I can really put into words just how much I admire, love and appreciate her. She is, in so many ways exactly what I think a "best friend" should be. She's kind and tender, but also strong and firm. She helps guide me (mostly by her example) to be better than I am. She's understanding and thoughtful. She's trustworthy and loyal. She is so many things that I want to be one day. For now, I'll just have to settle for being around and learning from her. It's so nice when you can recognize the Lord's hand in all the different areas of your life. I was blessed more than I deserve when He saw fit to place her (and her family) in my life.
Date Night/Aaron's Birthday!
Back in the Fall, following Diane's lead, a specific effort was made to give Violet and Jordan a regularly scheduled Date Night. And after a little protesting by Violet, it was determined this would be a weekly occurance.
So Friday night has arrived, but THIS date night is particularly special. Not only is tonight Date Night...but it's also the 7th Birthday of the coolest little guy I know and my first friend in the Barnes Family.
That's right...Aaron Barnes is 7! Anyway, the big party is tomorrow but tonight we celebrated on a smaller scale with Pizza and baking a cake. Elena helped with the mixing of the cake batter and adding the sprinkles and candles.
So Friday night has arrived, but THIS date night is particularly special. Not only is tonight Date Night...but it's also the 7th Birthday of the coolest little guy I know and my first friend in the Barnes Family.
That's right...Aaron Barnes is 7! Anyway, the big party is tomorrow but tonight we celebrated on a smaller scale with Pizza and baking a cake. Elena helped with the mixing of the cake batter and adding the sprinkles and candles.
Of course we had to make a birthday cake!
Remember how I had this kid in my Sunbeam class when he was 4??
Sunday, January 1, 2012
How's this for a resolution?
So, I had been thinking for a while about ways that I could motivate myself to be better at this whole "blogging" business. I remember when I was in high school and I was AWESOME at keeping a journal. I've had points where I've been good at it since then, but nothing long-term. Violet told me about this really cool thing where you can have your blog printed off and bound like a book. It ends up looking like a journal and a scrapbook all in one! How awesome!
Now, I'm a bit of a nerd because I like handwritten things (letters, notes, journals, you get the idea), but I think I'm gonna start trying to sit down at least once a week and write on here!
Now, I'm a bit of a nerd because I like handwritten things (letters, notes, journals, you get the idea), but I think I'm gonna start trying to sit down at least once a week and write on here!
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
I Suck At Blogging!
I don't know what it is about blogging that makes me suck so bad at it.
For a long time I thought of blogging as a married couples/family thing...so I avoided it. BIG TIME. Then, I had a friend convince me to try it. After that my hang up became that I didn't think my life was interesting enough to have a blog. But then again, what is interesting depends on the person. Most recently I had a friend tell me that she uses her blog like a journal and plans to print it out and bind it as a book. Pretty cool idea, huh?
ALSO! Things have been a bit on the cooler (read: busier) side for the past several months. In other words, I have lots of things to write about. This summer was the best (again read: busiest) summer yet! I spent 2 weeks in California, went straight to EFY for 3 weeks, had a week off, did 2 more weeks of EFY, had another week off, went to Hilton Head for Kayc and Alex's wedding AND started Grad School. Crazytown, right? I haven't decided yet if recap entries are in order or if I'll just try (again!) to do better at keeping up with this thing. Either way...stay tuned. The next 2 years promise to be quite the adventure!
For a long time I thought of blogging as a married couples/family thing...so I avoided it. BIG TIME. Then, I had a friend convince me to try it. After that my hang up became that I didn't think my life was interesting enough to have a blog. But then again, what is interesting depends on the person. Most recently I had a friend tell me that she uses her blog like a journal and plans to print it out and bind it as a book. Pretty cool idea, huh?
ALSO! Things have been a bit on the cooler (read: busier) side for the past several months. In other words, I have lots of things to write about. This summer was the best (again read: busiest) summer yet! I spent 2 weeks in California, went straight to EFY for 3 weeks, had a week off, did 2 more weeks of EFY, had another week off, went to Hilton Head for Kayc and Alex's wedding AND started Grad School. Crazytown, right? I haven't decided yet if recap entries are in order or if I'll just try (again!) to do better at keeping up with this thing. Either way...stay tuned. The next 2 years promise to be quite the adventure!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Update!
Yikes.
With the end of that whole 30 day challenge, I began to revert to my former ways and not post on here very often. Nice, huh?
The good news is that while it's been a while since my last post, there's not a whole lot to catch you up on.
Grad school? Wellllllll, I still haven't heard back from UGA and GSU yet. The truth is that I'm starting to feel a pull toward a school...and it's not at all the school I would've anticipated.
Work? I FINALLY got a job. I'm working as the Activities Director at a retirement community. It's pretty fun...most days.
EFY? I set a personal record this year! Less than 2 weeks after my interview I had contract offers for GA 1 and 2, St. Pete, Kentucky and Massachusetts! :D
Life back in GA? I feel like that one gets its own post...tomorrow? Indeed.
With the end of that whole 30 day challenge, I began to revert to my former ways and not post on here very often. Nice, huh?
The good news is that while it's been a while since my last post, there's not a whole lot to catch you up on.
Grad school? Wellllllll, I still haven't heard back from UGA and GSU yet. The truth is that I'm starting to feel a pull toward a school...and it's not at all the school I would've anticipated.
Work? I FINALLY got a job. I'm working as the Activities Director at a retirement community. It's pretty fun...most days.
EFY? I set a personal record this year! Less than 2 weeks after my interview I had contract offers for GA 1 and 2, St. Pete, Kentucky and Massachusetts! :D
Life back in GA? I feel like that one gets its own post...tomorrow? Indeed.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
EFY 2011
Rachel will be very happy to know that my application for this summer has officially been submitted! Here's hoping I get hired for one last awesome summer!
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Grad School Update!
BIG news!
About 2 days before beginning my roadtrip back to GA I got an email from the Director of the Marriage and Family Therapy program at Valdosta State. She told me that they wanted to schedule an interview with me. When I spoke with them, I was told that I could either do a phone interview or an in-person interview. The Director of the program explained that they were very interested in interviewing me as soon as possible. So, I set up a phone interview for that Friday (yes, the very day I was beginning my roadtrip).
At 10:15 am that Friday morning, Spencer and I pulled over and I had my interview on the side of the road in southern Utah. It went REALLY well! So well in fact that I was told at the end of the interview that I had been accepted. I got my official letter a week before Christmas!
Now we just wait for info on the assistantship situation AND admissions decisions from UGA and GA State. Keep those fingers crossed! Prayers are also welcome! :D
About 2 days before beginning my roadtrip back to GA I got an email from the Director of the Marriage and Family Therapy program at Valdosta State. She told me that they wanted to schedule an interview with me. When I spoke with them, I was told that I could either do a phone interview or an in-person interview. The Director of the program explained that they were very interested in interviewing me as soon as possible. So, I set up a phone interview for that Friday (yes, the very day I was beginning my roadtrip).
At 10:15 am that Friday morning, Spencer and I pulled over and I had my interview on the side of the road in southern Utah. It went REALLY well! So well in fact that I was told at the end of the interview that I had been accepted. I got my official letter a week before Christmas!
Now we just wait for info on the assistantship situation AND admissions decisions from UGA and GA State. Keep those fingers crossed! Prayers are also welcome! :D
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
ROAD TRIPPPPPP!
On Thursday afternoon, I'll be picking up this lovely boy at the SLC Airport!
And then on Friday morning (early!) we're going to begin a pretty dang fun road trip. The first leg of our trip will take us to Albuquerque to visit this lovely family:
The Griffins have been family friends for as long as I can remember. They moved to Albuquerque several years ago and Spencer and I are pretty dang excited to see them! We'll spend Saturday with them, and go to Sacrament meeting with them on Sunday!
After Sacrament meeting, Spencer and I are gonna get on the road and plan to go all the way to Arkansas by that night. Then Monday we'll go the rest of the way to Columbus. It'll be a fun trip! We'll be sure to take lots of pictures for you, blogworld. The next post coming your way will likely be from the great state of Georgia! Until then...
And then on Friday morning (early!) we're going to begin a pretty dang fun road trip. The first leg of our trip will take us to Albuquerque to visit this lovely family:
The Griffins have been family friends for as long as I can remember. They moved to Albuquerque several years ago and Spencer and I are pretty dang excited to see them! We'll spend Saturday with them, and go to Sacrament meeting with them on Sunday!
After Sacrament meeting, Spencer and I are gonna get on the road and plan to go all the way to Arkansas by that night. Then Monday we'll go the rest of the way to Columbus. It'll be a fun trip! We'll be sure to take lots of pictures for you, blogworld. The next post coming your way will likely be from the great state of Georgia! Until then...
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Master of Blogging?
How is it that the one of us who is so bad about blogging just spent an hour helping Rachel set up her blog?
Who knew?
But I am excited that Rachey's joining in on the blogging fun...or failure (in my case)! :)
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Day 30!!
Days 28 & 29
Day 28- A picture of you last year and now, how have you changed?
Christmas 2009.
Summer 2010.
This picture was literally taken like, a week after I finally talked to my parents about the idea of changing my program and pursuing a career as a Counselor (specifically a Marriage and Family Therapist). As soon as I started talking, my mom cut me off and said..."I think it's an excellent choice for you. Not that I doubt your ability to be a wonderful teacher, but I think this is more in line with your interests and natural abilities". Could I have asked for a better response? I left a couple of days later to work a session of EFY in Massachusetts and made the whole idea (as well as moving to Utah for a little while) a matter of fasting and prayer. I had 2 incredible co-counselors (who did a good bit of counseling ME that week). By the middle of the week I felt a peace about my long-term plans and goals that I hadn't felt before. So after a couple of years of frustration at not knowing...and floating...I'm making progress. And it feels great. :)
Day 29 - In the past month, what have you learned?
Well, if this topic doesn't flow right along with what I was saying right ^ there! In case you missed the memo, I moved to Orem, Utah at the end of August. I was excited about the idea of a change of scenery and even entertaining the idea of going to BYU for graduate school (and if you know me...you know that's a BIG deal!). But mostly, I was learning to be free and not feel like everything always had to be planned and detailed. I don't know when I got to the point where I felt like I needed to have a plan that I was following, but somewhere along the lines it happened. Anyway. I didn't have anything keeping me in Columbus. I wouldn't be able to start grad school until Fall 2011. AND I had a couple of friends who were talking about moving out to Utah in January. So, why not?
Things since I've been in Utah haven't really gone the way I planned. I was going to come out here, get graduate school applications in, find a job and be out here until the Summer at least. Wellllll...the job thing hasn't really panned out the way I had hoped. I'm still unemployed. But more than that...the school options in GA started looking really, really good. There are some pretty amazing assistantships that would have me making money to go to school! Long story short, I'm packing back up the Aveo and heading back east on December 10th.
So, the point of all of that (and the actual question of the entry)...what have I learned? No matter what my plan is, as long as I'm on the right path...doing the things that keep me in tune with the spirit that I'll be ok. Humility. Patience. Trust. All those attributes we talk about all the time, but are ever-so-hard to put in to practice.
Super relevant scripture coming..............................now:
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy path." -Proverbs 3: 5-6
And THAT is what it's about. With the Lord directing my path, I can't go wrong.
Christmas 2009.Well. Anyone brave enough to venture back to the entries on my blog from 2008 will find something really interesting. Without going too much into details (because, really...who wants the details in summary when you can go back here and here and read the details), I thought I was going to follow one career and life path...and it changed. Suddenly. And it left one of the most important relationships in my life damaged. Anyway. The year to year and a half that followed August 2008 was...trying. It involved a lot of soul searching. A lot of discomfort. A lot of prayers. By Christmas 2009, I was starting to feel a bit more direction in my life, but still felt unsettled and I was unsure why. I enrolled in graduate courses at Columbus State to get a MA in Teaching. Through Spring semester 2010 I was led back to a thought and a career that I (through to the beginning of High School) had previously considered. Thoughts of changing programs and schools began to fill my head. It was exciting. And at the same time completely overwhelming. I wasn't sure about the practicality of the decision and wanted to talk to my parents, but because I was feeling conflicted...I didn't. Initially.
Summer 2010.This picture was literally taken like, a week after I finally talked to my parents about the idea of changing my program and pursuing a career as a Counselor (specifically a Marriage and Family Therapist). As soon as I started talking, my mom cut me off and said..."I think it's an excellent choice for you. Not that I doubt your ability to be a wonderful teacher, but I think this is more in line with your interests and natural abilities". Could I have asked for a better response? I left a couple of days later to work a session of EFY in Massachusetts and made the whole idea (as well as moving to Utah for a little while) a matter of fasting and prayer. I had 2 incredible co-counselors (who did a good bit of counseling ME that week). By the middle of the week I felt a peace about my long-term plans and goals that I hadn't felt before. So after a couple of years of frustration at not knowing...and floating...I'm making progress. And it feels great. :)
Day 29 - In the past month, what have you learned?
Well, if this topic doesn't flow right along with what I was saying right ^ there! In case you missed the memo, I moved to Orem, Utah at the end of August. I was excited about the idea of a change of scenery and even entertaining the idea of going to BYU for graduate school (and if you know me...you know that's a BIG deal!). But mostly, I was learning to be free and not feel like everything always had to be planned and detailed. I don't know when I got to the point where I felt like I needed to have a plan that I was following, but somewhere along the lines it happened. Anyway. I didn't have anything keeping me in Columbus. I wouldn't be able to start grad school until Fall 2011. AND I had a couple of friends who were talking about moving out to Utah in January. So, why not?
Things since I've been in Utah haven't really gone the way I planned. I was going to come out here, get graduate school applications in, find a job and be out here until the Summer at least. Wellllll...the job thing hasn't really panned out the way I had hoped. I'm still unemployed. But more than that...the school options in GA started looking really, really good. There are some pretty amazing assistantships that would have me making money to go to school! Long story short, I'm packing back up the Aveo and heading back east on December 10th.
So, the point of all of that (and the actual question of the entry)...what have I learned? No matter what my plan is, as long as I'm on the right path...doing the things that keep me in tune with the spirit that I'll be ok. Humility. Patience. Trust. All those attributes we talk about all the time, but are ever-so-hard to put in to practice.
Super relevant scripture coming..............................now:
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy path." -Proverbs 3: 5-6
And THAT is what it's about. With the Lord directing my path, I can't go wrong.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Days 25 - 27: Bag, Friends and Why??
Day 25 - What would be found in my bag
Unfortunately blog followers...it's pretty boring. Let's see...probably sunglasses, chapstick, lots of pens, wallet and because it was Sunday...my scriptures. :)
Day 26 - What I think about my friends
Well, if that's not a broad question, I don't know what is. I feel like everyone always says "I have the best friends in the world". I wanna put a bit of a different spin on that. I have the best friends for me! I've been consistently amazed with how I always seem to encounter the most amazing people and that along with them come incredible lessons. I've been blessed with awesome, stable friends who have hung in there with me for years. I also have new friends who have blessed my life incredibly in a short period of time. Then I have people who helped mold and shape me, and then life moved us in different directions.
The truth is that I'm so very grateful for all of them. We are the sum of our experiences. That being the case, the people who were a part of those experiences are also a part of us. Good or bad. Long term or new. My friends have changed me. And I'm lucky.
Day 27 - Why I'm doing the 30 day challenge
I've had this blog for years. I think I started it in 2008. And I've completely failed with updating it. I've had HUGE amounts of time pass where it was completely abandoned. I found where my friend Kaycie was doing this challenge. I thought it would be the perfect thing to get me in the swing of regularly posting. I've done better. But clearly still failed at posting everyday...I get points for trying, right?
Unfortunately blog followers...it's pretty boring. Let's see...probably sunglasses, chapstick, lots of pens, wallet and because it was Sunday...my scriptures. :)
Day 26 - What I think about my friends
Well, if that's not a broad question, I don't know what is. I feel like everyone always says "I have the best friends in the world". I wanna put a bit of a different spin on that. I have the best friends for me! I've been consistently amazed with how I always seem to encounter the most amazing people and that along with them come incredible lessons. I've been blessed with awesome, stable friends who have hung in there with me for years. I also have new friends who have blessed my life incredibly in a short period of time. Then I have people who helped mold and shape me, and then life moved us in different directions.
The truth is that I'm so very grateful for all of them. We are the sum of our experiences. That being the case, the people who were a part of those experiences are also a part of us. Good or bad. Long term or new. My friends have changed me. And I'm lucky.
Day 27 - Why I'm doing the 30 day challenge
I've had this blog for years. I think I started it in 2008. And I've completely failed with updating it. I've had HUGE amounts of time pass where it was completely abandoned. I found where my friend Kaycie was doing this challenge. I thought it would be the perfect thing to get me in the swing of regularly posting. I've done better. But clearly still failed at posting everyday...I get points for trying, right?
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Thanksgiving
I know there have been people who have been doing entries everyday for one thing they're grateful for. I saved it all for today (mostly because I had already started the 30 day blog challenge). But it's Thanksgiving today and it's entirely appropriate that I mention the things that I'm thankful for. My list (in no particular order, well...other than the first few :) )...
1. My Savior.
What can you say about the person who loves you more than anyone else? There aren't words for how grateful I am to Him. He provided the way for me to be forgiven of my sins and live with Him, Heavenly Father and my family for eternity. If that weren't enough, the way that he did it was by paying for the sins that I commit. He felt the pains, sadness, hurt, anxiety, fear...all of it. For each of us. He's real. What He did is real. It happened. And because of Him, I can be better.
2. The Gospel.
I know, I know. #1 and #2 go together, but I felt that they were deserving of individual numbers. I'm grateful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It has made me who I am. Being a member of His church factors in to every choice I make. Having the teachings of true and living prophets helps guide me daily. Knowing there are inspired priesthood leaders who can provide direct assistance to me is incredible. Having access to another record which testifies of Jesus Christ, his ministry and divinity is an incredible blessing. I'm grateful that my parents were people who recognized truth when they heard it.
3. My Family.
Though we're all far from perfect, we're a lot of fun.
I'm grateful to know that if I ever needed them, I know they'd be there. I can count on them. They are stable forces. One of the few things that is unchanging in this life. I can't think of any other people I'd rather be with forever. :)
P.S. Look at their tender, young faces!
4. Friends.
I've been extremely blessed over the years with good, reliable friends. That's not to say that I've always been the best at picking good friends. But it's through the struggle that you learn to appreciate what you have. I did go through a really rough patch where I learned a lot about myself and my friends...and what is important in a friendship. Through that I have found the people who are truly good friends. I've learned what a good friend is...and how to be one to others.
I'm grateful to Heavenly Father for sending me good people. People who are good examples to me. People who are honest and kind. It's so very appreciated.
(Sorry for no pictures here...see other blogs of friends. It's wayyyyyy too many pictures to post!)
5. Living in the USA.
I am increasingly grateful to live in the United States of America. I think as a younger person, it was very much taken for granted. But everyday I'm reminded of blessings I enjoy simply by living here. I can go to church without worrying that someone will injure me. I can hold a job, live by myself and own property. I can vote for individuals who want to hold public office. I go to bed at night and sleep without fear for my safety. This land is a special place. And I am immensely grateful to live here.
6. EFY.
EFY changed my life as a participant when I was a youth. Now as an adult I've had the blessing of going back and working as a counselor. It's changed my life again. I get to spend a few weeks each summer working with amazing youth and incredible co-workers.
(My first group EVER! EFY 2009)
(My most recent group. EFY 2010 Amherst, MA)
(A few of those incredible friends I've made)
Jordan.
Jesse.
Domonique.
8. Being from the South.
Growing up in GA is something I'm very proud of. I know the south sometimes gets a bad rep for. But I tell you what, some of the best people I know are from there! And there are a lot of great things that can be said for that area. I love that people are still respectful. "Ma'am" and "Sir" are still frequently used words. Your friend's parents are Mr. Steve and Ms. Jennifer. It's beautiful (see the picture below). People will say hello to you when you're walking down the street. But mostly, I'm grateful to have lived in a place that required me to decide at a young age if I was a believer or not. It's the best place.
(The Riverwalk in Columbus, GA)
9. My former Primary class.
Man, I love these kids. They have the sweetest spirits and would blow me away with the things they would say and the concepts they would understand. They taught me so much and I miss them!
11. My Missionary Brothers (and Friends!)
I still think it's such an amazing thing that we send 19 year old boys and 21 year old young women out to teach the gospel. I also think it's amazing that those young people so willingly leave their families and lives behind and devote 1.5 - 2 years of their lives to the Lord and doing his work. I'm super proud of my brother, Matt who is currently serving in the Idaho, Boise mission.
(Elder James Matthew Harrell!)
(Elder Jonathan Harrell. California, San Bernardino Mission 2006-2008)
(Elder Joseph Pate)
(Sister Corley Griffin.)
(Elder Elijah Hall)
And there are many, many others.
I've been blessed more than I can say.
1. My Savior.
What can you say about the person who loves you more than anyone else? There aren't words for how grateful I am to Him. He provided the way for me to be forgiven of my sins and live with Him, Heavenly Father and my family for eternity. If that weren't enough, the way that he did it was by paying for the sins that I commit. He felt the pains, sadness, hurt, anxiety, fear...all of it. For each of us. He's real. What He did is real. It happened. And because of Him, I can be better.
2. The Gospel.
I know, I know. #1 and #2 go together, but I felt that they were deserving of individual numbers. I'm grateful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It has made me who I am. Being a member of His church factors in to every choice I make. Having the teachings of true and living prophets helps guide me daily. Knowing there are inspired priesthood leaders who can provide direct assistance to me is incredible. Having access to another record which testifies of Jesus Christ, his ministry and divinity is an incredible blessing. I'm grateful that my parents were people who recognized truth when they heard it.
3. My Family.Though we're all far from perfect, we're a lot of fun.
I'm grateful to know that if I ever needed them, I know they'd be there. I can count on them. They are stable forces. One of the few things that is unchanging in this life. I can't think of any other people I'd rather be with forever. :)
P.S. Look at their tender, young faces!
4. Friends.
I've been extremely blessed over the years with good, reliable friends. That's not to say that I've always been the best at picking good friends. But it's through the struggle that you learn to appreciate what you have. I did go through a really rough patch where I learned a lot about myself and my friends...and what is important in a friendship. Through that I have found the people who are truly good friends. I've learned what a good friend is...and how to be one to others.
I'm grateful to Heavenly Father for sending me good people. People who are good examples to me. People who are honest and kind. It's so very appreciated.
(Sorry for no pictures here...see other blogs of friends. It's wayyyyyy too many pictures to post!)
5. Living in the USA.
I am increasingly grateful to live in the United States of America. I think as a younger person, it was very much taken for granted. But everyday I'm reminded of blessings I enjoy simply by living here. I can go to church without worrying that someone will injure me. I can hold a job, live by myself and own property. I can vote for individuals who want to hold public office. I go to bed at night and sleep without fear for my safety. This land is a special place. And I am immensely grateful to live here.
6. EFY.
EFY changed my life as a participant when I was a youth. Now as an adult I've had the blessing of going back and working as a counselor. It's changed my life again. I get to spend a few weeks each summer working with amazing youth and incredible co-workers.
(My first group EVER! EFY 2009)I've worked 2 summers and 6 sessions. Total 4 sessions in GA, 1 in FL and 1 in MA. With limited distractions, we focus on the gospel...and miracles happen.
(My most recent group. EFY 2010 Amherst, MA)I'm so grateful to have the opportunity to work with this program. It's a lot of work. A lot of sleepless nights. Lots of prayers and (sometimes) tears. But I'm so lucky. Many thanks to the counselors and youth when I was a kid, the youth I've had the blessing of working with the past 2 summers (you are all amazing!) and the other counselors who have become incredible friends and examples to me.
(A few of those incredible friends I've made)7. Health.
While working at AFLAC from 2008-2010 I was reminded how blessed I am to be healthy. As wonderful a gift as our mortal bodies are...because they're moral, they're not perfect. They get sick or injured. I've been so lucky to avoid major illness or injury. For that I am very grateful as I know many people who have many physical struggles.
While working at AFLAC from 2008-2010 I was reminded how blessed I am to be healthy. As wonderful a gift as our mortal bodies are...because they're moral, they're not perfect. They get sick or injured. I've been so lucky to avoid major illness or injury. For that I am very grateful as I know many people who have many physical struggles.
8. Servicemen and women.
Growing up near Ft. Benning, GA I've had the opportunity to meet and become friends with many of the wonderful people serving our nation in the Armed Forces. The sacrifices these people make, all the way up to giving their lives are amazing. I currently have 2 friends serving in Afghanistan and 1 who just recently completed a tour of duty. I'm grateful to know that men like them exist and are protecting the freedoms I enjoy. I'm particularly mindful of them today as they aren't able to be with their loved ones. MANY thanks to Jordan Cross, Jesse Holmes and Domonique Anderson. I'm grateful for you, your service and glad to call you my friends.
Growing up near Ft. Benning, GA I've had the opportunity to meet and become friends with many of the wonderful people serving our nation in the Armed Forces. The sacrifices these people make, all the way up to giving their lives are amazing. I currently have 2 friends serving in Afghanistan and 1 who just recently completed a tour of duty. I'm grateful to know that men like them exist and are protecting the freedoms I enjoy. I'm particularly mindful of them today as they aren't able to be with their loved ones. MANY thanks to Jordan Cross, Jesse Holmes and Domonique Anderson. I'm grateful for you, your service and glad to call you my friends.
Jordan.
Jesse.
Domonique.8. Being from the South.
Growing up in GA is something I'm very proud of. I know the south sometimes gets a bad rep for. But I tell you what, some of the best people I know are from there! And there are a lot of great things that can be said for that area. I love that people are still respectful. "Ma'am" and "Sir" are still frequently used words. Your friend's parents are Mr. Steve and Ms. Jennifer. It's beautiful (see the picture below). People will say hello to you when you're walking down the street. But mostly, I'm grateful to have lived in a place that required me to decide at a young age if I was a believer or not. It's the best place.
(The Riverwalk in Columbus, GA)9. My former Primary class.
Man, I love these kids. They have the sweetest spirits and would blow me away with the things they would say and the concepts they would understand. They taught me so much and I miss them!
11. My Missionary Brothers (and Friends!)
I still think it's such an amazing thing that we send 19 year old boys and 21 year old young women out to teach the gospel. I also think it's amazing that those young people so willingly leave their families and lives behind and devote 1.5 - 2 years of their lives to the Lord and doing his work. I'm super proud of my brother, Matt who is currently serving in the Idaho, Boise mission.
(Elder James Matthew Harrell!)I'm also proud to be able to say that my only other brother eligible (so far!) to have served also went!
(Elder Jonathan Harrell. California, San Bernardino Mission 2006-2008)And to have had amazing friends who also devoted time to serving the Lord.
(Elder Joseph Pate)
(Sister Corley Griffin.)
(Elder Elijah Hall)And there are many, many others.
I've been blessed more than I can say.
Day 24 - A letter to the Parentals
Mom and Dad,
Thank you. I don't really know how often I say it, but regardless I should probably say it more. You have been incredible parents to me (experimental child included and all :) ). You've done a lot for me...
You've provided me with all the necessities and many of the extras. You showed me what kind of person I want to be when I grow up (because even though I'm an "adult", let's face it...I'm not "grown up" yet). You've given me a great example of what I want my future marriage to look like. You've been wonderful examples and shown me great patience. You set boundaries and requirements, and you enforced consequences when I broke rules. Even though I didn't appreciate it at the time, I see the importance of it now. You said "no" and didn't give me everything I wanted. What a great life lesson! Like a Sister said at church a few weeks ago, "There were times when I got what I wanted and it was good. And there were times when I didn't get what I wanted, and it was better". You both found the gospel, and because you did the searching, I didn't have to. I'll forever be grateful to you for that. You taught me what it meant to be a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. You taught me what was sacred and special and how to treat those things.
In short, everything I am and hope to be is because of you. You are wonderful. And I love you both.
-Kate
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Why I'm Special and Cravings
Day 22 - What makes me different from others
This one is a bit of a hard one just because it's such a broad statement. I mean, really? What makes me different from EVERYONE else? Intimidating much?
I think it's the total of all your qualities and experiences that make you unique and different from everyone else. No two people have the exact same life experiences. So, truly it's everything about me...all together...me as a complete unit that's different from everyone else.
That wasn't a cop out, I promise.
But if you really, really want me to say something specific that I think STANDS OUT about me in comparison to others it's that I have a desire to help people. It might be part of the whole oldest child complex. It might be a need to control something. It might be a million other things. But the simple truth is that I get great joy from helping someone. Putting a smile on someone's face when they've had a rough day. Giving someone a note/small gift just because. Listening while someone talks. I can honestly say that I love it. And I guess I do think that's special. :)
Day 23 - Cravings
This one is a bit of a hard one just because it's such a broad statement. I mean, really? What makes me different from EVERYONE else? Intimidating much?
I think it's the total of all your qualities and experiences that make you unique and different from everyone else. No two people have the exact same life experiences. So, truly it's everything about me...all together...me as a complete unit that's different from everyone else.
That wasn't a cop out, I promise.
But if you really, really want me to say something specific that I think STANDS OUT about me in comparison to others it's that I have a desire to help people. It might be part of the whole oldest child complex. It might be a need to control something. It might be a million other things. But the simple truth is that I get great joy from helping someone. Putting a smile on someone's face when they've had a rough day. Giving someone a note/small gift just because. Listening while someone talks. I can honestly say that I love it. And I guess I do think that's special. :)
Day 23 - Cravings
I feel like the only thing I crave is Olive Garden's Zuppa Toscana soup. But the best thing EVER is that I found the recipe for the soup online a few weeks ago. So whenever I really want it...I can just make it at home! Winner, winner!
Ok...so, I'm gonna knock out one more entry tonight (because it's after midnight I'm gonna do day 24 so I can write a special Thanksgiving entry tomorrow!)...
Monday, November 22, 2010
Day 21 - Something that makes me happy
This topic is fun, so we'll do a few!!!
Babies.
Look at that face! I mean, really. How can you look at that and NOT be happy?
Mean Girls.
SUCH a guilty pleasure, but such an awesome movie! I mean, think about it. It's BEFORE Lindsey went crazy! It's what first made me LOVE Rachel! And how awesome was Amanda? Add Tina Fey and an incredible script? It's genius. Admit it. You know it's true.
The Stars.
Anyone who knows me knows how much I really love the stars. How can you look at that and think that everything is just a big BANG of an accident? No, no. It was all the workings of the Master Artist. And what an artist He is.
MAIL!
I love going out to the mailbox and seeing an envelope HANDWRITTEN to me. Super exciting!
Thunderstorms.
It might sound crazy, but being from the south, I really love thunderstorms. It's something I've missed the past few months while I've been in UT.
Wint-O-Green Lifesavers.
These guys are my FAVORITE candy! SO yummmm!
That was just a few, maybe I'll do more later? We'll see...
Babies.
Look at that face! I mean, really. How can you look at that and NOT be happy?
Mean Girls.
SUCH a guilty pleasure, but such an awesome movie! I mean, think about it. It's BEFORE Lindsey went crazy! It's what first made me LOVE Rachel! And how awesome was Amanda? Add Tina Fey and an incredible script? It's genius. Admit it. You know it's true.
The Stars.
Anyone who knows me knows how much I really love the stars. How can you look at that and think that everything is just a big BANG of an accident? No, no. It was all the workings of the Master Artist. And what an artist He is.
MAIL!
I love going out to the mailbox and seeing an envelope HANDWRITTEN to me. Super exciting!
Thunderstorms.
It might sound crazy, but being from the south, I really love thunderstorms. It's something I've missed the past few months while I've been in UT.
Wint-O-Green Lifesavers.
These guys are my FAVORITE candy! SO yummmm!That was just a few, maybe I'll do more later? We'll see...
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Procrastination is B-A-D.
Good grief. Do I really have FOUR entries to do? Well I suppose we should just dive right in...
Day 17 - Life switching
Truthfully, I don't know that there's anyone I would want to switch lives with. Someone else might seem to have things more together than you do, but underneath that they've got problems too. At least with me, I know what most of my problems are. :)
Day 18 - Dreams, Hopes, Wishes...
I think the biggest thing for right now is that I want to get in to a good counseling program AND last a solid assistantship. It would be awesome to not have to pay tuition (and with some of them, not pay room and board either).
Beyond that I can't wait to be licensed as a therapist and start helping people! Having a job I love going to! It's gonna be awesome!
Then also, of course I dream, hope and wish that I'll meet some wonderful man and get to spend eternity with him! I love the gospel and I love the concept of eternal families and can't wait to have my own! Now we just need the man...
Day 19 - Nicknameage
Oh dear. This could get embarrassing real quick. Let's see.
Well, first I don't think you should be reading this if you didn't know that Kate IS a nickname of mine. The real (on the birth certificate) name is Kathryn. You're special if you know the middle name. :)
An EFY friend of mine started calling me Kater Tot, and that has stuck with a few kids from home (who were in her group).
Katers and Katish were around back in the YW days. Oh, girls camp.
My darling brother, Spencer calls me Katee (said like Katie). He does this mostly to annoy me.
Rachel and Ashley have taken to calling me Sister Harrell. This is because I shared with them several stories from my primary kids who can't say Sister Harrell, it comes out SISTA HAWWO. So that's stuck, too.
Kate-dizzle happened in college. I truly don't remember how it came about, but I do remember that it was Adrienne who first started using it. I think I'm still in her phone that way, too.
Day 20 - Potential Husbands? Whaaa?
Ummm...the sad truth here is that I haven't dated many guys that I could actually see myself marrying. This is why I haven't dated any of them for a very long time (oh, the stories I could tell here...). There has been ONE who I think matched most closely the qualities I'm looking for. And I know that may sound like I'm being super selective or that I'm really very picky. It's not that at all. I'm looking for a kind, happy, worthy priesthood holder. From there, the rest is gravy (not that there aren't other things that I like or find attractive). Education is a major plus. Liking/being good with kids probably should be a requirement. Easy-going attitude. Fun. Good sense of humor.
Day 17 - Life switching
Truthfully, I don't know that there's anyone I would want to switch lives with. Someone else might seem to have things more together than you do, but underneath that they've got problems too. At least with me, I know what most of my problems are. :)
Day 18 - Dreams, Hopes, Wishes...
I think the biggest thing for right now is that I want to get in to a good counseling program AND last a solid assistantship. It would be awesome to not have to pay tuition (and with some of them, not pay room and board either).
Beyond that I can't wait to be licensed as a therapist and start helping people! Having a job I love going to! It's gonna be awesome!
Then also, of course I dream, hope and wish that I'll meet some wonderful man and get to spend eternity with him! I love the gospel and I love the concept of eternal families and can't wait to have my own! Now we just need the man...
Day 19 - Nicknameage
Oh dear. This could get embarrassing real quick. Let's see.
Well, first I don't think you should be reading this if you didn't know that Kate IS a nickname of mine. The real (on the birth certificate) name is Kathryn. You're special if you know the middle name. :)
An EFY friend of mine started calling me Kater Tot, and that has stuck with a few kids from home (who were in her group).
Katers and Katish were around back in the YW days. Oh, girls camp.
My darling brother, Spencer calls me Katee (said like Katie). He does this mostly to annoy me.
Rachel and Ashley have taken to calling me Sister Harrell. This is because I shared with them several stories from my primary kids who can't say Sister Harrell, it comes out SISTA HAWWO. So that's stuck, too.
Kate-dizzle happened in college. I truly don't remember how it came about, but I do remember that it was Adrienne who first started using it. I think I'm still in her phone that way, too.
Day 20 - Potential Husbands? Whaaa?
Ummm...the sad truth here is that I haven't dated many guys that I could actually see myself marrying. This is why I haven't dated any of them for a very long time (oh, the stories I could tell here...). There has been ONE who I think matched most closely the qualities I'm looking for. And I know that may sound like I'm being super selective or that I'm really very picky. It's not that at all. I'm looking for a kind, happy, worthy priesthood holder. From there, the rest is gravy (not that there aren't other things that I like or find attractive). Education is a major plus. Liking/being good with kids probably should be a requirement. Easy-going attitude. Fun. Good sense of humor.
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