Lesson #9: My World is Small
I love to fly. Every time I'm in a plane, I'm reminded of how small my world really is. It's odd how much an aerial view changes my perspective. Before getting in a plane, all I know is the world as I see it around me. For all I know, Columbia City and the surrounding areas that have become familiar could be all that exists in the world--that is, until I'm up in the air, looking down at the world I thought consumed everything. That's when I get a tiny glimpse of the world that God sees. Our problems must seem so small to Him. I know He enjoys listening to my prayers, but He must laugh sometimes at the things I pray for because most of the time, my requests are so trivial! From His viewpoint of infinite time and space, I am nothing more than a spec in the sand.
It isn't until the plane makes it back home safely, that my world becomes big again. It's then that I realize, I am more than a spec in the sand. I can make a difference here---now.
Dec 29, 2011
Dec 28, 2011
Lessons Learned After College - #8
Lesson #8: We judge ourselves on our intentions, but others on their actions. Others also judge us by our actions, not our intentions.
This is a popular quote struck me recently. No matter how good my intentions are, others will never see and fully understand my intentions. They will always judge me by how I act. There is a big difference between thinking and doing, and I need to be more conscious of my actions. At the same time, there can't be a double standard. Even though it doesn't come easy, I need to realize that others do not necessarily act the way they intend to.
Short post today, but I think the quote speaks for itself. :)
Tomorrow's post: My World is Small
This is a popular quote struck me recently. No matter how good my intentions are, others will never see and fully understand my intentions. They will always judge me by how I act. There is a big difference between thinking and doing, and I need to be more conscious of my actions. At the same time, there can't be a double standard. Even though it doesn't come easy, I need to realize that others do not necessarily act the way they intend to.
Short post today, but I think the quote speaks for itself. :)
Tomorrow's post: My World is Small
Dec 27, 2011
Lessons Learned After College - #7
Lesson #7: Similarities = Compatibility = Less Stress
Some people say that opposites attract. While that may work for some people, I have come to the conclusion that similarities are far more important. There is something refreshing and comforting about knowing that someone else truly understands you as you and can relate to you in more ways than one. Recently, I took the Myers-Briggs personality test and found out that I have an ISFJ (Introverted Sensing Feeling Judging) personality type. I took this personality test back in college, but I honestly can't remember what my results were, so I thought it would be fun to take it again. Luke's results also came out as ISFJ when he took it back in college. When I passed it along to my mom, she also had the same personality type. Two of the people who I love the most, and we have the same personality! Interestingly enough, ISFJs only represent about 10% of the population!
ISFJs are also referred to as Protectors because our primary interest is in the safety and security of those we care about--our family, circle of friends, co-workers, etc. We are characterized by an extraordinary sense of loyalty and responsibility. Instead of speculating and experimenting, we prefer to make do with time-honored and time-tested products and procedures rather than change to new. We value tradition and cherish family history. Our shyness and reserve is often misjudged and should really be seen as an expression of our sincerity and seriousness of purpose. We are willing to work long, hard hours, quietly doing any and every "thankless" job that others often avoid.
So while opposite personalities may work for others, I am thankful that I've found a husband who I can relate with on many levels and share little disagreement with.
Interested in knowing your personality type? Click here.
Tomorrow's Lesson: We judge ourselves on our best intentions, but others on their actions.
Some people say that opposites attract. While that may work for some people, I have come to the conclusion that similarities are far more important. There is something refreshing and comforting about knowing that someone else truly understands you as you and can relate to you in more ways than one. Recently, I took the Myers-Briggs personality test and found out that I have an ISFJ (Introverted Sensing Feeling Judging) personality type. I took this personality test back in college, but I honestly can't remember what my results were, so I thought it would be fun to take it again. Luke's results also came out as ISFJ when he took it back in college. When I passed it along to my mom, she also had the same personality type. Two of the people who I love the most, and we have the same personality! Interestingly enough, ISFJs only represent about 10% of the population!
ISFJs are also referred to as Protectors because our primary interest is in the safety and security of those we care about--our family, circle of friends, co-workers, etc. We are characterized by an extraordinary sense of loyalty and responsibility. Instead of speculating and experimenting, we prefer to make do with time-honored and time-tested products and procedures rather than change to new. We value tradition and cherish family history. Our shyness and reserve is often misjudged and should really be seen as an expression of our sincerity and seriousness of purpose. We are willing to work long, hard hours, quietly doing any and every "thankless" job that others often avoid.
So while opposite personalities may work for others, I am thankful that I've found a husband who I can relate with on many levels and share little disagreement with.
Interested in knowing your personality type? Click here.
Tomorrow's Lesson: We judge ourselves on our best intentions, but others on their actions.
Dec 26, 2011
Lessons Learned After College - #6
Lesson #6: The Importance of Mentors & Role Models
We have all probably had at least a few people in our lives who we can look up to--people we've watched, wished we could live vicariously through, and gained wisdom from. I have many different role models in my life--most of them probably don't even know how much of an impact they've had in my life and yet many decisions I make are based on conversations I had with them, or actions I've watched them make. My goal for 2012 is to sit down with each of these people and ask them questions about their lives to learn more from them. Some of them I admire as older married couples, parents, or even spiritual leaders. I've noticed that more times than not it takes a moment of separation for me to realize how much I valued their insight or example. Some of my role models have already passed away. I hope that by sitting down with them, I will be able to learn from them before it's too late. Before the busyness of life gets to me, and I miss the opportunity in front of me to ask them the questions I've always wanted to know. I'll be sure to share these "interviews" on the blog when the time comes, but for now, I thought I'd leave with with a story about one of Luke's mentors: Coach King. He was Luke's cross country and track coach in college, and you can read the story here.
Tomorrow's Lesson: Similarities = Compatibility = Less Stress
We have all probably had at least a few people in our lives who we can look up to--people we've watched, wished we could live vicariously through, and gained wisdom from. I have many different role models in my life--most of them probably don't even know how much of an impact they've had in my life and yet many decisions I make are based on conversations I had with them, or actions I've watched them make. My goal for 2012 is to sit down with each of these people and ask them questions about their lives to learn more from them. Some of them I admire as older married couples, parents, or even spiritual leaders. I've noticed that more times than not it takes a moment of separation for me to realize how much I valued their insight or example. Some of my role models have already passed away. I hope that by sitting down with them, I will be able to learn from them before it's too late. Before the busyness of life gets to me, and I miss the opportunity in front of me to ask them the questions I've always wanted to know. I'll be sure to share these "interviews" on the blog when the time comes, but for now, I thought I'd leave with with a story about one of Luke's mentors: Coach King. He was Luke's cross country and track coach in college, and you can read the story here.
Tomorrow's Lesson: Similarities = Compatibility = Less Stress
Dec 25, 2011
Christmas Bonus Post
Since it's Christmas, I thought I'd post an extra bonus post with some family pictures that were taken this month for Christmas.
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| Kessie Christmas Card Picture 2011 |
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| Surprise Christmas picture taken for Luke's mom, Deb. We're standing in front of Deb's dad's old barn that has since been sold. Her dad, Wendell Abbott, passed away in August, so this was a special way to pay trbute to him. We definiately missed Wendell at Christmas this year! |
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| The in-laws (Colts) on the left dominating the real Diehls (Bears). |
Lessons Learned After College - #5
Lessons Learned After College - #5:
Children are the product of their parents--not their friends or teachers.
I am by no means an expert on parenting--after all, I don't have any children of my own, so it would be presumptuous to even think I have a little wisdom to offer on this topic. However, looking at life from my perspective, I know that after cycling through many teachers and friends over the years, my parents are the people I have been influenced by the most. If you think about it, most parents spend more hours, weeks, and years with their children than any other person in their life. Even though friends greatly influence behaviors, I believe children will eventually turn out to be pretty similar to their mom or dad--whether that's good or bad. Don't get me wrong, there are many exceptions to my theory, but for the most part, adults behave in specific ways simply because that's how their parents did it.
Think about it: Children mimic parents. Parents who read tend to have children who like reading. Parents who eat healthy are more likely to have children who eat well. On the flip side of things, children of alcoholics usually grow up to be alcoholics. Children who have been abused are more likely to be abusers as adults. Children of divorced parents are more likely to get divorced themselves. Children of smokers are more likely to smoke. Here is an interesting statistic--Only 2 percent of smokers have parents who don't smoke, according to the Mayo Clinic! That means the vast majority of smokers smoke simply because it's always been "normal" behavior to them.
Marriage has opened my eyes to this because even though Luke and I were raised very similarly, there are still times when we challenge each other by asking, "Why do you do it that way?" Usually, the answer is something along the lines of, "I don't know. That's what my parents always did growing up. I just assumed it was normal!" Sometimes it's comical. For example, do you call it a grilled cheese sandwich or a cheese toastie?
You can probably think of many ways you are like your parents and some ways you're not. For me, I'm just glad that the good highly outweighs the bad. I'm so thankful to have parents who cared enough to set a good example.
Merry Christmas!!
Check back for tomorrow's lesson: The Importance of Mentors & Role Models
Children are the product of their parents--not their friends or teachers.
I am by no means an expert on parenting--after all, I don't have any children of my own, so it would be presumptuous to even think I have a little wisdom to offer on this topic. However, looking at life from my perspective, I know that after cycling through many teachers and friends over the years, my parents are the people I have been influenced by the most. If you think about it, most parents spend more hours, weeks, and years with their children than any other person in their life. Even though friends greatly influence behaviors, I believe children will eventually turn out to be pretty similar to their mom or dad--whether that's good or bad. Don't get me wrong, there are many exceptions to my theory, but for the most part, adults behave in specific ways simply because that's how their parents did it.
Think about it: Children mimic parents. Parents who read tend to have children who like reading. Parents who eat healthy are more likely to have children who eat well. On the flip side of things, children of alcoholics usually grow up to be alcoholics. Children who have been abused are more likely to be abusers as adults. Children of divorced parents are more likely to get divorced themselves. Children of smokers are more likely to smoke. Here is an interesting statistic--Only 2 percent of smokers have parents who don't smoke, according to the Mayo Clinic! That means the vast majority of smokers smoke simply because it's always been "normal" behavior to them.
Marriage has opened my eyes to this because even though Luke and I were raised very similarly, there are still times when we challenge each other by asking, "Why do you do it that way?" Usually, the answer is something along the lines of, "I don't know. That's what my parents always did growing up. I just assumed it was normal!" Sometimes it's comical. For example, do you call it a grilled cheese sandwich or a cheese toastie?
You can probably think of many ways you are like your parents and some ways you're not. For me, I'm just glad that the good highly outweighs the bad. I'm so thankful to have parents who cared enough to set a good example.
Merry Christmas!!
Check back for tomorrow's lesson: The Importance of Mentors & Role Models
Dec 24, 2011
Lessons Learned After College - #4
Lesson # 4: Give More.
Christmas is the season of giving, and the theme at church this month has been "Giving Christmas Away". It's been a great reminder of the importance of giving and all of the creative ways that we can give to others.
One thing I really admire about Luke is that he is a giver. He is always looking for people and causes that we can give to. It was actually one of the first things I noticed about him when we started dating. For our first Christmas together as a dating couple (back in 2007), instead of giving each other gifts, we decided that we would rather give to others, so we volunteered at a soup kitchen. We aren't gifts people anyways, so it doesn't bother us not to receive gifts. We still don't exchange birthday or Christmas gifts. Instead, we try to give memories to each other--a vacation, weekend getaway, or even enjoying a meal out together. The awesome thing is we don't miss the "gifts"! Luke definitely has more of a giving spirit than I do. Our marriage has stretched me greatly in this. When giving opportunities come up, we always talk about how much we'd like to give, and Luke's amount is always way higher than I had in mind. Over time, I've found that the more we give, the less I fret about it. I know that one of the reasons God placed Luke in my life is to help me become a better giver. I've learned that I can always give more--we can never give too much. God rewards givers, not hoarders. "It is more blessed to give than to receive." [Acts 20:35]
So, this Christmas, who can you give more to?
Tomorrow's Lesson: Children are the product of their parents--not their friends or teachers.
Christmas is the season of giving, and the theme at church this month has been "Giving Christmas Away". It's been a great reminder of the importance of giving and all of the creative ways that we can give to others.
One thing I really admire about Luke is that he is a giver. He is always looking for people and causes that we can give to. It was actually one of the first things I noticed about him when we started dating. For our first Christmas together as a dating couple (back in 2007), instead of giving each other gifts, we decided that we would rather give to others, so we volunteered at a soup kitchen. We aren't gifts people anyways, so it doesn't bother us not to receive gifts. We still don't exchange birthday or Christmas gifts. Instead, we try to give memories to each other--a vacation, weekend getaway, or even enjoying a meal out together. The awesome thing is we don't miss the "gifts"! Luke definitely has more of a giving spirit than I do. Our marriage has stretched me greatly in this. When giving opportunities come up, we always talk about how much we'd like to give, and Luke's amount is always way higher than I had in mind. Over time, I've found that the more we give, the less I fret about it. I know that one of the reasons God placed Luke in my life is to help me become a better giver. I've learned that I can always give more--we can never give too much. God rewards givers, not hoarders. "It is more blessed to give than to receive." [Acts 20:35]
So, this Christmas, who can you give more to?
Tomorrow's Lesson: Children are the product of their parents--not their friends or teachers.
Dec 23, 2011
Lessons Learned After College - #3
Lesson #3: Financial Peace = Peace
I am a big fan of Crown Financial Ministries and Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University. However, Luke and I have both come to the conclusion that the principles they teach are pretty simple; they are just counterculture. We both grew up with parents who taught us to save and to be content with the things we have, but many people around us are tied to things they "have to have right now," but can only buy on credit. It can be a viscous cycle.
When I first started college, I started keeping track of everything I spent. If you know me well, you know that I am a little OCD. I like things neat and orderly, and I am a nerd when it comes to Microsoft Excel. I create spreadsheets for everything. After listening to some Crown Financial radio broadcasts, I decided then to start keeping track of every penny I spent just to see if I could get in the habit of it. After all, if you know where your money's going, you're less likely to spend as much. Well, that habit has turned into a 7-year routine that I don't think I'll ever be able to stop. Now, I don't even think about it. I just keep all my receipts and enter every penny spent into different categories. Then, at the end of every month I know how much money I've saved and where I could do better next month. I'll admit, I was a little nervous before Luke and I got married to know what he would think about this idea, and if it would continue to work throughout our marriage. However, as Luke and I started talking about money, I quickly realized that we were on the same page! Luke agreed to try it out and see if he could get used to it as well. All he had to do was remember to keep receipts.
This is just one of the ways that we've decided to be transparent with finances in our marriage as we work together toward goals that we've set. Fortunately, money is an area of commonality for us. Larry Burkett, a noted Christian financial author, says, "Money is either the best or the worst area of communication in our marriages." For us, it is the best. I honestly get excited, almost giddy, when Luke and I talk about money together. It energizes me to save more, spend wisely, and look forward to the future. We've found that if we agree on money, we don't disagree on much else. It's been a true blessing and has brought peace and excitement to our marriage as we work towards our goals.
Tomorrow's Lesson: Give More.
I am a big fan of Crown Financial Ministries and Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University. However, Luke and I have both come to the conclusion that the principles they teach are pretty simple; they are just counterculture. We both grew up with parents who taught us to save and to be content with the things we have, but many people around us are tied to things they "have to have right now," but can only buy on credit. It can be a viscous cycle.
When I first started college, I started keeping track of everything I spent. If you know me well, you know that I am a little OCD. I like things neat and orderly, and I am a nerd when it comes to Microsoft Excel. I create spreadsheets for everything. After listening to some Crown Financial radio broadcasts, I decided then to start keeping track of every penny I spent just to see if I could get in the habit of it. After all, if you know where your money's going, you're less likely to spend as much. Well, that habit has turned into a 7-year routine that I don't think I'll ever be able to stop. Now, I don't even think about it. I just keep all my receipts and enter every penny spent into different categories. Then, at the end of every month I know how much money I've saved and where I could do better next month. I'll admit, I was a little nervous before Luke and I got married to know what he would think about this idea, and if it would continue to work throughout our marriage. However, as Luke and I started talking about money, I quickly realized that we were on the same page! Luke agreed to try it out and see if he could get used to it as well. All he had to do was remember to keep receipts.
This is just one of the ways that we've decided to be transparent with finances in our marriage as we work together toward goals that we've set. Fortunately, money is an area of commonality for us. Larry Burkett, a noted Christian financial author, says, "Money is either the best or the worst area of communication in our marriages." For us, it is the best. I honestly get excited, almost giddy, when Luke and I talk about money together. It energizes me to save more, spend wisely, and look forward to the future. We've found that if we agree on money, we don't disagree on much else. It's been a true blessing and has brought peace and excitement to our marriage as we work towards our goals.
Tomorrow's Lesson: Give More.
Dec 22, 2011
Lessons Learned After College - #2
Lesson #2: Relationships are an Investment
More and more, I'm realizing that relationships are in investment. Whether it's a friendship, family relationship, or a marriage, your return is based on what you pour into them. In my business classes in college, one of my favorite things to study and learn about was compound interest. It was so inspiring to know the importance and benefits of investing early on in life. If you're unfamiliar with compound interest, I've included a chart below to help you visualize it.
You can see from this chart that when Saver B starts investing earlier on in life, the time value of his money allows for much greater gaining potential. So much greater, in fact, that even though Saver A invested 5 times the amount of Saver B, Saver B gained more than $400k more than Saver A by the time they reached their retirement age. Crazy, huh?!
The reason why I illustrate this is that if we invest in our relationships early on and continue to do it frequently as time progresses, in the end it will produce a greater return (a more meaningful relationship). If instead, we just wait until a crisis threatens to tear the relationship apart or until we realize that we've missed out on many important opportunities, investing in the relationship will not have as great of an impact unless we have already laid a firm foundation of respect, trust, and love.
More and more, I'm realizing that relationships are in investment. Whether it's a friendship, family relationship, or a marriage, your return is based on what you pour into them. In my business classes in college, one of my favorite things to study and learn about was compound interest. It was so inspiring to know the importance and benefits of investing early on in life. If you're unfamiliar with compound interest, I've included a chart below to help you visualize it.
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smartconsumergroup.com |
You can see from this chart that when Saver B starts investing earlier on in life, the time value of his money allows for much greater gaining potential. So much greater, in fact, that even though Saver A invested 5 times the amount of Saver B, Saver B gained more than $400k more than Saver A by the time they reached their retirement age. Crazy, huh?!
The reason why I illustrate this is that if we invest in our relationships early on and continue to do it frequently as time progresses, in the end it will produce a greater return (a more meaningful relationship). If instead, we just wait until a crisis threatens to tear the relationship apart or until we realize that we've missed out on many important opportunities, investing in the relationship will not have as great of an impact unless we have already laid a firm foundation of respect, trust, and love.
Tomorrow's Lesson: Financial Peace = Peace
Dec 21, 2011
Lessons Learned After College - #1
Reflecting on my life experiences over the last few years
For each remaining day of 2011, I've decided to post one lesson that I've learned since graduating from college. Through this process of thinking back on lessons learned, I have realized the importance of reminiscing and learning from the past. I hope that as you read these "lessons," you will think back on your own life to consider what has brought you to where you are today.
Lesson #1: Grades DON'T Matter!
If there's anyone who will not believe what's written in this post, it's my sister, Anne! As many of you probably know, she just finished her first semester of college and grades mean EVERYTHING to her right now! (Honestly, for that I'm thankful because I know there could be far worse things for her to be concerned about!) It wasn't long ago when I, too, thought that grades were all that mattered. My world was consumed with studying for upcoming exams and wondering how I was ever going to survive if I didn't get an A. Fortunately, my eyes have been opened since then! I learned that it was OK if I didn't get an A. In fact, I probably learned more in classes where I got a B than in the ones I got an A in.
Several weeks ago, as Luke and I were reflecting back on our college days, we began talking about the differences between good test takers and bad test takers. Luke was a good test taker, and I was not. The fact of the matter is, those who are good test takers do well in college. Those who are not, do not do well. Unfortunately, a very large percentage of grades are based on exams and not on projects and papers. As we were talking about this, Luke kindly reminded me of the fact that in "real life," exams don't matter. English skills, working with people, and projects are the things that matter in the workplace.
To help illustrate this, I searched for the top skills employers seek when searching for employees. Here's what I found:
Here is an interesting video to watch about how fast things are changing:
Interesting Facts:
...Check back tomorrow for Lesson #2: Relationships are an Investment!
For each remaining day of 2011, I've decided to post one lesson that I've learned since graduating from college. Through this process of thinking back on lessons learned, I have realized the importance of reminiscing and learning from the past. I hope that as you read these "lessons," you will think back on your own life to consider what has brought you to where you are today.
Lesson #1: Grades DON'T Matter!
If there's anyone who will not believe what's written in this post, it's my sister, Anne! As many of you probably know, she just finished her first semester of college and grades mean EVERYTHING to her right now! (Honestly, for that I'm thankful because I know there could be far worse things for her to be concerned about!) It wasn't long ago when I, too, thought that grades were all that mattered. My world was consumed with studying for upcoming exams and wondering how I was ever going to survive if I didn't get an A. Fortunately, my eyes have been opened since then! I learned that it was OK if I didn't get an A. In fact, I probably learned more in classes where I got a B than in the ones I got an A in.
Several weeks ago, as Luke and I were reflecting back on our college days, we began talking about the differences between good test takers and bad test takers. Luke was a good test taker, and I was not. The fact of the matter is, those who are good test takers do well in college. Those who are not, do not do well. Unfortunately, a very large percentage of grades are based on exams and not on projects and papers. As we were talking about this, Luke kindly reminded me of the fact that in "real life," exams don't matter. English skills, working with people, and projects are the things that matter in the workplace.
To help illustrate this, I searched for the top skills employers seek when searching for employees. Here's what I found:
- Communication Skills (listening, written)
- Analytical/Research Skills
- Computer/Technical Literacy
- Flexibility/Adaptability/Managing Multiple Priorities
- Interpersonal Abilities
- Leadership/Management Skills
- Multicultural Sensitivity/Awareness
- Planning/Organizing
- Problems-Solving/Reasoning/Creativity
- Teamwork
Here is an interesting video to watch about how fast things are changing:
- The Top 10 jobs in 2010 did not exist in 2004.
- We are currently preparing students for jobs that don't yet exist using technologies that haven't been invented in order to solve problems we don't even know are problems yet. (How is that for a mouthful?!)
- The amount of technical information is doubling every 2 years. For students starting a 4-year technical degree, this means that half of what they learn in their first year of study will be outdated by their third year of study.
...Check back tomorrow for Lesson #2: Relationships are an Investment!
Dec 3, 2011
Weekend Getaways
Luke and I have had a string of three wonderful weekends. November 17-20th, we were in Atlanta for the National Youth Workers Convention. We went to a lot of conference sessions and were able to take back many new "tools" for our youth ministry toolbox. They even offered a couple of sessions on marriage and ministry, so we gained a lot of wisdom from a youth pastor and wife (Doug & Cathy Fields) who have been doing this many more years than we have! In addition to the conference, we got to stay in a great hotel downtown, and I didn't have to cook once! :)
Last weekend, we both had Thursday and Friday off for Thanksgiving, so we got to spend a lot of time with family. Just another reminder of how incredibly blessed we are to have such wholesome families.
Then this weekend, we decided to use some of my free hotel points that I've racked up from work travel to have a weekend getaway in Indy. Sometimes it's just nice to get away and forget about the to-do lists at home. Since Thursday was my birthday, Luke had planned to surprise me with a nice dinner in Indy on Friday, but he wouldn't tell me where. My initial guess ended up being correct...The Cheesecake Factory! We thoroughly enjoyed the meal and ended up packing up our unfinished meals to go since they give you so much food. And just for fun, we added in two pieces of cheesecake! After all, who goes to the Cheesecake Factory without getting cheesecake?! Since we were celebrating my birthday, Luke let me decide what we did for the rest of the night, so we stopped in at Home Goods before heading back to the hotel.
Our hotel turned out to be AWESOME! I wish you could have seen the look on Luke's face when we opened the door to our hotel room. I've stayed in a lot of hotel rooms with work, but this was by far, the coolest room I've stayed in--and it was FREE! It was a corner king suite and the ceilings were 12-15 ft. high with floor-to-ceiling windows on both sides of the room. The pictures below don't do the room justice. It was so nice to relax.
Then today, we met up with a college friend, Cara Thomas, who lives in Franklin. We met her and her fiance, James, for lunch at Cracker Barrel. Cara has had a rough year, and we don't get to see her nearly as much as I'd like to, so it was refreshing to catch up. When Cara was about 10 years old, she had leukemia. For over ten years, she was in remission. However, within the last five years, Cara has had both of her hips replaced, and then about a year ago, she found out that her cancer had returned to her thyroid. She is such a sweet person, and it's hard for me to believe that she has been through so much in her life. She is having a second operation on December 20th to remove a tumor on her thyroid. This is a very risky surgery since it's located near nerves. The surgery could damage her laryngeal nerves and her ability to speak/breathe, so we are hopeful and praying that God will do a mighty miracle as the surgeon operates on the 20th. The weird part is that she feels great and doesn't have any visual signs that this is going on inside of her. Please join us in praying for Cara! If you would like to follow her progress, you can visit her blog: www.caringbridge.org/visit/carathomas/.
Last weekend, we both had Thursday and Friday off for Thanksgiving, so we got to spend a lot of time with family. Just another reminder of how incredibly blessed we are to have such wholesome families.
Then this weekend, we decided to use some of my free hotel points that I've racked up from work travel to have a weekend getaway in Indy. Sometimes it's just nice to get away and forget about the to-do lists at home. Since Thursday was my birthday, Luke had planned to surprise me with a nice dinner in Indy on Friday, but he wouldn't tell me where. My initial guess ended up being correct...The Cheesecake Factory! We thoroughly enjoyed the meal and ended up packing up our unfinished meals to go since they give you so much food. And just for fun, we added in two pieces of cheesecake! After all, who goes to the Cheesecake Factory without getting cheesecake?! Since we were celebrating my birthday, Luke let me decide what we did for the rest of the night, so we stopped in at Home Goods before heading back to the hotel.
Our hotel turned out to be AWESOME! I wish you could have seen the look on Luke's face when we opened the door to our hotel room. I've stayed in a lot of hotel rooms with work, but this was by far, the coolest room I've stayed in--and it was FREE! It was a corner king suite and the ceilings were 12-15 ft. high with floor-to-ceiling windows on both sides of the room. The pictures below don't do the room justice. It was so nice to relax.
Nov 1, 2011
You're Gonna Miss This
In our busy culture, sometimes I find it hard to savor the moment—to relish in the time I have now. I remember taking a StrengthsQuest assessment in college, where I learned that one of my top five strengths is Futuristic. I always am thinking about what’s next in life—dreaming and making goals of how to achieve those things. However, sometimes my view of the future becomes more important to me than what is actually happening now. A couple nights ago, as Luke and I were sitting on the couch with the TV off, just talking, I was thinking to myself—wow, these moments together are sacred. Fast forward several years, and we will have kids to take care of, more errands to run, and more responsibility. Right now, our biggest priorities are doing well at work, making time for each other, and saving to buy a house. In the big scheme of things, most parents would say life is pretty “easy” for us right now. For the most part, we can do what we want when we want. The hopes and dreams of the future will always be there, but I don’t want to miss “this”. I don’t want to wish away these quiet moments that I have now. I am so thankful for this life that God has called me to live, so I’m going to work harder to enjoy and savor today. These are good times!
I don’t know if you have ever heard the song “You’re Gonna Miss This” by Trace Adkins or not, but I find myself tearing up every time I hear it. It really makes me rethink my priorities. Listen to it, and see if it does the same for you: "You're Gonna Miss This"
Oct 30, 2011
Baked Potato Soup Recipe
My favorite type of soup has always been potato soup, but this baked potato soup recipe tops off my list as my all-time-favorite potato soup! This is a recipe that my mom found several years ago from a magazine, and we've been enjoying it ever since.
Ingredients:
2/3 C. Butter
2/3 C. Flour
7 C. Milk
4 large Baking Potatoes (baked, cooled, peeled & cubed)
4 Green Onions, sliced
12 Bacon Strips, cooked & crumbled (I use packaged bacon pieces instead of frying it myself.)
1-1/4 C. Shredded Cheese
3/4 tsp. Salt
1/2 tsp. Pepper
In a large pot, melt butter and stir in the flour. Turn heat down after the butter is melted. Stir until creamy. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until thickened (no lumps).
Add potatoes and onions. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
Fry bacon, and then add remaining ingredients. Top each bowl with shredded cheese and bacon.
Bon appetit!
Prep Time: 1-1/2 hours
Serves: 8-10
Ingredients:
2/3 C. Butter
2/3 C. Flour
7 C. Milk
4 large Baking Potatoes (baked, cooled, peeled & cubed)
4 Green Onions, sliced
12 Bacon Strips, cooked & crumbled (I use packaged bacon pieces instead of frying it myself.)
1-1/4 C. Shredded Cheese
3/4 tsp. Salt
1/2 tsp. Pepper
In a large pot, melt butter and stir in the flour. Turn heat down after the butter is melted. Stir until creamy. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until thickened (no lumps).
Add potatoes and onions. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
Fry bacon, and then add remaining ingredients. Top each bowl with shredded cheese and bacon.
Bon appetit!
Prep Time: 1-1/2 hours
Serves: 8-10
Oct 18, 2011
The Changes of Fall
Well, my fall travel season at work is ALMOST done! I survived my two weeks in Illinois and Wisconsin and am now just wrapping up some local travel. Things are good. To top it off, Luke and I didn't have a lot planned this past weekend, so I was able to get a lot of things done around the house, which I've neglected from being gone so much the past couple of months. Now, our house is clean and our refrigerator is fully stocked again! Time away always makes me appreciate being home and realize how blessed I am to have Luke in my life! I missed that man!
I came home to a beautiful surprise in our yard...our tree! While I was away, its leaves transformed into a beautiful, vibrant orange! My brother, Andrew, even said that he thought it was the prettiest tree in town. Check it out--
We have really been encouraged with youth group this fall. There are so many students who are seeking to grow closer with Christ. It's awesome! Even though we're the leaders, it's amazing how the students are the ones who actually spur us on in our faith. I'm constantly amazed at how God works. In a corrupt world like ours, with the economy suffering in so many ways, it is encouraging to me to know that God is still rising up a new generation of believers!
I came home to a beautiful surprise in our yard...our tree! While I was away, its leaves transformed into a beautiful, vibrant orange! My brother, Andrew, even said that he thought it was the prettiest tree in town. Check it out--
We have really been encouraged with youth group this fall. There are so many students who are seeking to grow closer with Christ. It's awesome! Even though we're the leaders, it's amazing how the students are the ones who actually spur us on in our faith. I'm constantly amazed at how God works. In a corrupt world like ours, with the economy suffering in so many ways, it is encouraging to me to know that God is still rising up a new generation of believers!
Sep 30, 2011
A Cozy Cup
If there's anything Luke has learned in our marriage so far, it is that I LOVE to be cozy! In fact, it is a word that I probably use a little too frequently. However, fall always seems to bring it out even more in me. Summer is definitely my favorite season, but once I am finally able to get over the fact that the cooler weather is here to stay, I am able to really enjoy the comfort of fall. I love the smell of pumpkin spice candles and burning leaves, the taste of pumpkin pie and the mixture of candy corn & peanuts, the sound of leaves crackling under my feet and Sunday afternoon football, and, yes, the taste of a warm drink or soup!
Unfortunately, this time of year is also one of the busiest times of year for us. For the most part, busyness, does not equal cozy for me. Youth group started back up for Luke on the 18th, and I started my work travel season the day after. Youth group started out with a bang this year, as we had about 140 middle & high school students show up that first night of youth group. Many of them had never come before. The best part is, most of them came back the second week! We've been really encouraged so far.
I always love the start of my work travel season because it's a change a pace from being in the office all of the time, but by the end of it, I am usually burnt out and ready to be back in the office--funny how that works! What I love most about travel season aside from meeting some great students at high schools and college fairs, is being on my own, discovering new places, and having time to shop in some great places like Chicago! I always love an excuse to window shop at Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel, IKEA, and TJ Maxx Home Goods! During the next two weeks, I will be in the Chicago area Monday-Thursday. After that, my travel season will almost be complete!
To complete this "cozy" blog post, I thought I would end with a warm drink recipe since I enjoyed my first cup of the year tonight:
Warm Cranberry Wassail
Recipe from Aunt Aimee Fry
Makes about 14 cups
1 (5.65 oz) container Aspen Mulling Spices (can purchase at Hallmark, Rustic Hutch, Das Essenhaus, etc.)
1 (64 oz) Apple Juice (100%)
1 (64 oz) Cranberry Juice (I used Oceanspray Cranberry Juice Cocktail.)
Combine all ingredients in a large sauce pan. Heat to boiling. Simmer 10 minutes.
Optional Garnish: Orange slices & whole cloves
Unfortunately, this time of year is also one of the busiest times of year for us. For the most part, busyness, does not equal cozy for me. Youth group started back up for Luke on the 18th, and I started my work travel season the day after. Youth group started out with a bang this year, as we had about 140 middle & high school students show up that first night of youth group. Many of them had never come before. The best part is, most of them came back the second week! We've been really encouraged so far.
I always love the start of my work travel season because it's a change a pace from being in the office all of the time, but by the end of it, I am usually burnt out and ready to be back in the office--funny how that works! What I love most about travel season aside from meeting some great students at high schools and college fairs, is being on my own, discovering new places, and having time to shop in some great places like Chicago! I always love an excuse to window shop at Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel, IKEA, and TJ Maxx Home Goods! During the next two weeks, I will be in the Chicago area Monday-Thursday. After that, my travel season will almost be complete!
To complete this "cozy" blog post, I thought I would end with a warm drink recipe since I enjoyed my first cup of the year tonight:
Warm Cranberry Wassail
Recipe from Aunt Aimee Fry
Makes about 14 cups
1 (5.65 oz) container Aspen Mulling Spices (can purchase at Hallmark, Rustic Hutch, Das Essenhaus, etc.)
1 (64 oz) Apple Juice (100%)
1 (64 oz) Cranberry Juice (I used Oceanspray Cranberry Juice Cocktail.)
Combine all ingredients in a large sauce pan. Heat to boiling. Simmer 10 minutes.
Optional Garnish: Orange slices & whole cloves
Aug 30, 2011
Riding Down Memory Lane
At Luke's grandpa's funeral on Saturday, all of the grandkids, their spouses, and great grandkids rode from the church to the cemetery on Wendell's Oliver 88 tractor and wagon. Wendell bought his Oliver new in 1954 for $2,000. A couple of the grandkids washed it up before the funeral, and another grandkid drove the tractor, pulling the rest of us. The trip to the cemetary was a few miles, right through downtown Decatur. For the grandkids, especially, the slow ride was a trip down memory lane. They remembered the many times Grandpa had taken them on hay wagon for Easter Egg hunts, or for just pure enjoyment.
Aug 24, 2011
Grandpa Abbott
In my last post (Remembering August 22nd), I wrote a special tribute to my Grandpa Harrold, who died 11 years ago, on August 22nd. Little did I know, the very next day, August 23rd, Luke would bid farewell to his Grandpa, Wendell Abbott, just one day after Wendell turned 85 years old. Wendell has been battling Parkinson's disease for about five years now, and has fought a long, hard battle with his health ever since then. We knew the end was drawing near, but it was still hard to face the reality when we learned he had passed. As Luke has said, his grandpa really died about five years ago when he sold his farm--where he had lived with his wife, Imogene, for 50 years. From that day forward, things changed for Wendell, and life never really was the same.
Wendell happens to be the first grandparent that Luke has lost. He left behind quite the legacy. He shared life with Imogene for nearly 58 years. They have four children (including Luke's mom, Deb), 15 grandchildren (including Luke), and 13 great-grandchildren. It's so great to see and be a part of such a strong Christian family that blends together so well. Wendell and Imogene have left behind a wonderful, godly heritage. In fact, if Luke and I make it to that age, I hope we can say the same about our family.
I've included some of my favorite Grandpa Abbott pictures below:
(Grandpa Abbott's Obituary)
Wendell happens to be the first grandparent that Luke has lost. He left behind quite the legacy. He shared life with Imogene for nearly 58 years. They have four children (including Luke's mom, Deb), 15 grandchildren (including Luke), and 13 great-grandchildren. It's so great to see and be a part of such a strong Christian family that blends together so well. Wendell and Imogene have left behind a wonderful, godly heritage. In fact, if Luke and I make it to that age, I hope we can say the same about our family.
I've included some of my favorite Grandpa Abbott pictures below:
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| Imogene and Wendell Abbott, on their wedding day: November 7, 1953 |
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| Wendell and his grandkids (Luke is the one on the top left, in the black shirt.) |
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| Luke with Grandma & Grandpa Abbott (May 18, 2009 before Luke left for California) |
Fortunately, we had a family gathering a couple weeks ago, on August 14th, so all of the grandkids were able to spend some time with Grandpa Abbott before he died. Luke and I arrived later than most, so we actually spent some one-on-one time with Wendell and Imogene in their home. As Imogene put Wendell in his hospice bed before we left, Luke prayed over Wendell, with tears in his eyes, and asked God to bring him home. There have been many teary eyes since then, but we are so relieved to know that he is now free from pain and spending time with Jesus in Heaven. (Grandpa Abbott's Obituary)
Aug 22, 2011
Remembering August 22nd
Today marks 11 years since my Grandpa, Maynard Harrold, died. It's hard to believe that it's been that long because I can still remember that day just as vividly as if it were yesterday. That day was my first day of high school. Grandpa had been suffering from leukemia for awhile, and we knew the end was drawing near for him. I remember getting off the school bus, walking through the front door of our house, and having Dad tell me that Grandpa had passed. What a heart-wrenching day. Grandpa definitely left a huge hole here on Earth when he left. He was always the life of the party and would tell stories that we still try to tell today (about Hinshaw and the Honeyboogers), but somehow we just can't tell them quite the same. I feel truly blessed to have known him. In fact, I wish that somehow Luke could have met him. Even though he never had the chance to meet him, Luke has heard many "Grandpa Harrold stories," and almost everyday when we eat dinner, I know that it's a good meal if Luke says, "Mmm, good stuff, Maynard!" I've taught him well. When we were on vacation this year, during one of our meals, we were eating sweet corn. I told Luke how Grandpa used to put all of his eaten ears of corn on one of our plates and how he would try to get everyone to believe that we had eaten that much. I don't think these stories will ever fade with time, at least in my mind. Even though we were all sad on August 22, 2000 when Grandpa left us, we are SO looking forward to seeing him again in Heaven. I'm sure, even now, he is entertaining others up there with his stories.
It's odd how much things change in 11 years. Anne was only 8 years old at the time, and today she's starting her first day of classes at college! Life is moving quickly. Each August 22nd brings new experiences and memories, but I will never forget August 22, 2000.
It's odd how much things change in 11 years. Anne was only 8 years old at the time, and today she's starting her first day of classes at college! Life is moving quickly. Each August 22nd brings new experiences and memories, but I will never forget August 22, 2000.
Aug 20, 2011
Blessed with Mentors
Last night, Luke and I had dinner at Johnny & Sherrie McCallister's house with them and their kids. What a wonderful night. We talked about our lives, shared many laughs, and talked about life in ministry. As we were talking, I realized how much of a blessing it is to learn and grow with each other.
However, it wasn't just last night that I enjoyed. It was the confirmation that God is working in us and around us, orchestrating something greater than we can even imagine. A few years ago when Luke and I started dating seriously, I knew that he was planning to be a youth pastor and that ministry would be a part of our lives, so I started praying that God would lead us to a church where we could develop a relationship with the senior pastor and learn from him and his family. Not only that, I prayed that I would be able to connect well with the pastor's wife. I knew that Luke and I were going to have to live like sponges, absorbing advice and learning from those who have been doing this for years. Little did I know, that those prayers would lead us back to the church I grew up in. I cannot even describe to you how blessed we are to know Johnny and Sherrie and their kids. They have been in ministry (primarily youth ministry) for about 20 years, which is a lot of experience for Luke and I to draw from. God also answered my prayer in connecting well with the pastor's wife because Sherrie and I have very similar interests--we love to decorate and entertain, we treasure our time with family and hold that as a priority above ministry events, and we like things CLEAN! :)
In a couple months, Luke will be starting year two of full-time youth ministry. The first year has flown by, and we greatly looking forward to all that God is going to do this next year.
However, it wasn't just last night that I enjoyed. It was the confirmation that God is working in us and around us, orchestrating something greater than we can even imagine. A few years ago when Luke and I started dating seriously, I knew that he was planning to be a youth pastor and that ministry would be a part of our lives, so I started praying that God would lead us to a church where we could develop a relationship with the senior pastor and learn from him and his family. Not only that, I prayed that I would be able to connect well with the pastor's wife. I knew that Luke and I were going to have to live like sponges, absorbing advice and learning from those who have been doing this for years. Little did I know, that those prayers would lead us back to the church I grew up in. I cannot even describe to you how blessed we are to know Johnny and Sherrie and their kids. They have been in ministry (primarily youth ministry) for about 20 years, which is a lot of experience for Luke and I to draw from. God also answered my prayer in connecting well with the pastor's wife because Sherrie and I have very similar interests--we love to decorate and entertain, we treasure our time with family and hold that as a priority above ministry events, and we like things CLEAN! :)
In a couple months, Luke will be starting year two of full-time youth ministry. The first year has flown by, and we greatly looking forward to all that God is going to do this next year.
Jul 31, 2011
Celebrating Firsts
Today, marks one year since Luke and I got married! It's hard to believe that a year has gone by. We've celebrated a lot of "firsts" this year:
I am so thankful for someone to share all these "firsts" with. God truly blessed me when he brought Luke into my life. Looking forward to many more years together as one!
- Getting married
- Going on a honeymoon
- Living together (which, yes, also means sharing a bed with someone of the opposite sex for the first time)
- Luke getting his first full-time job
- Me becoming a pastor's wife
- First Christmas together under one roof
- Moving from Huntington to Columbia City
- My first winter commuting to work
- Bats in our house (Now, after four bats total, Luke can officially call himself an expert at bat extermination!)
- Experimenting with a lot of new recipes and cooking for more than myself
- Grilling on our own
- First mission trip as leaders
- Luke seeing my crazy hair in the morning (which he commonly refers to as weasels)
- And...too many more to list
I am so thankful for someone to share all these "firsts" with. God truly blessed me when he brought Luke into my life. Looking forward to many more years together as one!
Jul 26, 2011
Surviving the Heat
I hope you have been surviving the heat lately! This excessively warm weather has definitely made me extra thankful for air conditioning. Luke and I have been sleeping downstairs on and off throughout the last week because there is only one air vent upstairs, and it's not in our bedroom. However, many things have held us over while we're waiting for the heat to subside, including 4-H FAIR SHAKES!! It was so nice to be able to walk to the fair last week and enjoy a little ice cream.
We've also noticed that the outside critters have been taking a break from the heat too. A couple of days ago, I found this little guy taking it easy in the tree with his nut. I couldn't help but snap a couple of pictures. I've never seen a squirrel relax like this! It must be hot.
We've also noticed that the outside critters have been taking a break from the heat too. A couple of days ago, I found this little guy taking it easy in the tree with his nut. I couldn't help but snap a couple of pictures. I've never seen a squirrel relax like this! It must be hot.
Jul 7, 2011
Kitchen Makeover
Luke and I came home from the mission trip to a GREAT surprise! Anne and Mom spent the week painting our kitchen cabinets (in addition to checking our mail, watering our flowers, and mowing our yard)! I think they deserve a raise! As much as I loved our maroon cabinets (strong sarcasm intended!), I am very pleased to see a clean, sleek white kitchen! The before and after pictures are below, along with a couple of "progress" pictures mixed in along the way. The yellow-ish (applesauce cake) wall color was just leftover paint from Mom's kitchen,so we technically only had to buy the white paint. The transformation is definitely worth noting. THANK YOU ANNE & MOM!!!
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| BEFORE (Move In Day - February) |
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PROGRESS! (Taken about 2 weeks ago after painting walls yellow...I was tempted to paint CC Eagles on the wall with these colors!) |
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| AFTER (the finished product!) |
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Let's have a side-by-side look, shall we?
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And just for kicks--what else would we do to the kitchen if money wasn't an object, and we owned this place? Off the top of my head....Gut the kitchen, install new cabinets and counter tops, and definitely new cabinet hardware!! A girl can dream, right? But hey, this works for now! I do love the sink and flooring, so the white cabinets definitely help pull all of that together.
This will probably be the last big home project we complete for awhile. I'll just keep saving pictures of things I love and storing them away in my "rainy day" to-do list.
Jul 3, 2011
More from Tennessee
Well, we made it back safely from our mission trip in Tennessee! Luke and I are now well rested after taking most of yesterday to catch up. It's hard to believe that Luke is done with mission trips for the summer. Where did June go? It's been a whirlwind and yet so rewarding! I shared our favorite "Yay God" moment from the trip in my previous post (Tennessee Mission Update) so if you haven't read that yet, be sure to! It is definitely ironic because we go on these mission trips to serve others and impact other lives, but so often we are the ones who come back impacted the most.
My second favorite highlight from the trip was on Thursday when we were given three hours to focus on ATL (Ask the Lord). We were given $50 as a group and were encouraged to ask the Lord how he wanted us to use the time and money. This exercise really stretched our students and was a great way to finish out the week. I had five girls in my group. We started out by going to a nearby Christian bookstore to buy a small pocket Bible and some bookmarks with encouraging sayings. We then spent time praying and asking God to show us who He wanted us to bless. The girls have become so much more open and willing to pray out loud since we left! It's been amazing to watch their progress. We started our morning by visiting a nursing home. There, we talked with several residents and even prayed over some of them. Most of our time there was spent with Charles Tony, an 84 year old man, who was at the nursing home visiting his wife. It was clear that our time with him greatly lifted his spirits. See the picture below of Charles and our girls:
After we left the nursing home, we spent time in the van praying individually, trying to find the right person to give the pocket Bible to. After praying, we felt that we should go to Arby’s and pay it forward by paying for the car behind us. We pulled up in the drive-thru line, and the car that was originally behind us pulled away, out of the drive-thru. We knew, at that point, that wasn’t the person God had in mind for us to bless. Behind that car, was an old, beat-up rusty blue car. In the car sat a man who was probably in his mid-twenties. He looked a little rough around the edges and was smoking. As we got closer to the window, we felt butterflies in our stomach as the time came for us to pay it forward. Just as we were talking about the “butterflies” in our stomach, two doves flew right in front of our van and landed on the ground next to us. (Yes, doves! Truly a gift from God!) From there, it all fell into place…
At the window, we asked the lady working to place the encouraging bookmark, note, and pocket Bible in the bag with the food in addition to letting us pay for the man behind us. She willingly agreed. As we drove off, we talked about how difficult it was not to stick around to see his reaction, but we left trusting that God would take care of the rest.
We had an amazing trip and are greatly encouraged knowing that the students we took are only in middle school. Our prayer now is that God will continue to draw them closer to Him throughout their teenage years and the rest of their lives--that this trip would only be a launching pad for all that God has in store for them.
Thank you to each and every one of you who partnered with us financially or in prayer! Your prayers were definitely felt this week!
I've included a couple pictures below from our trip:
My second favorite highlight from the trip was on Thursday when we were given three hours to focus on ATL (Ask the Lord). We were given $50 as a group and were encouraged to ask the Lord how he wanted us to use the time and money. This exercise really stretched our students and was a great way to finish out the week. I had five girls in my group. We started out by going to a nearby Christian bookstore to buy a small pocket Bible and some bookmarks with encouraging sayings. We then spent time praying and asking God to show us who He wanted us to bless. The girls have become so much more open and willing to pray out loud since we left! It's been amazing to watch their progress. We started our morning by visiting a nursing home. There, we talked with several residents and even prayed over some of them. Most of our time there was spent with Charles Tony, an 84 year old man, who was at the nursing home visiting his wife. It was clear that our time with him greatly lifted his spirits. See the picture below of Charles and our girls:
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| Charles with his ladies! |
After we left the nursing home, we spent time in the van praying individually, trying to find the right person to give the pocket Bible to. After praying, we felt that we should go to Arby’s and pay it forward by paying for the car behind us. We pulled up in the drive-thru line, and the car that was originally behind us pulled away, out of the drive-thru. We knew, at that point, that wasn’t the person God had in mind for us to bless. Behind that car, was an old, beat-up rusty blue car. In the car sat a man who was probably in his mid-twenties. He looked a little rough around the edges and was smoking. As we got closer to the window, we felt butterflies in our stomach as the time came for us to pay it forward. Just as we were talking about the “butterflies” in our stomach, two doves flew right in front of our van and landed on the ground next to us. (Yes, doves! Truly a gift from God!) From there, it all fell into place…
At the window, we asked the lady working to place the encouraging bookmark, note, and pocket Bible in the bag with the food in addition to letting us pay for the man behind us. She willingly agreed. As we drove off, we talked about how difficult it was not to stick around to see his reaction, but we left trusting that God would take care of the rest.
We had an amazing trip and are greatly encouraged knowing that the students we took are only in middle school. Our prayer now is that God will continue to draw them closer to Him throughout their teenage years and the rest of their lives--that this trip would only be a launching pad for all that God has in store for them.
Thank you to each and every one of you who partnered with us financially or in prayer! Your prayers were definitely felt this week!
I've included a couple pictures below from our trip:
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| The Whole Group Before Leaving the Church on Sunday, June 26th |
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| Luke and I at the Cumberland Gap (a pit stop on the way to TN) |
Jun 29, 2011
Tennessee Mission Update
This week, Luke and I are in Morristown, Tennessee, on a mission trip with 14 middle schoolers (11 of them, girls!). We will be here until Friday morning, but since I have some spare time this morning, I wanted to share last night's experience with you. The following is a journal entry that I wrote last night....
Tonight is one of those nights I hope to remember for the rest of my life. I tried to take as many mental pictures as possible, trying to soak in every moment, but even those don't compare to actually experiencing it in person. In our team debrief meeting tonight, our 14 middle schoolers sat in a circle on the floor to share about our day's work. After hearing some great stories from the day, Luke raised the question, "How would you rate your spiritual life on a scale from 1-10 before coming on the mission trip until tonight?" It was great to hear how much these young teens have grown in the two day's we've been here. Their eyes have been opened. Their hearts have been changed. Our prayers have been answered. As the group continued to share, it became evident that these teens desired to spend more time with God on a daily basis by reading the Bible, but didn't know where to start. Like many of us, they struggle to make it a priority in their lives. Little did they know, Luke had packed away One Year Bibles for each person, not knowing if and when to distribute them. When he mentioned the Bibles to them, their eyes lit up and smiles filled their faces. I wish you could have seen their smiles! It was as if we just had given them new iPhones. It felt like Christmas with everyone quickly tearing open their new One Year Bibles, EXCITED to get on a daily schedule of reading the Word. While this was happening, Luke and I exchanged glances and smiles as we watched their faces light up. I have never seen anyone get that excited to receive Bibles. What a special moment that God blessed us with! My eyes filled with tears as we bowed our heads to thank God for that special moment. After we left the meeting, we headed back to our host homes and the girls and I stayed up late, as I tried to answer the many questions the girls were asking about the Bible. This morning, they all bombarded Luke at breakfast with more questions. God is definitely stirring their hearts and minds and drawing them closer to Him. It is an awesome sight to see!!
The great thing is, we still have two full days of work here in Tennessee. More opportunities to serve, yes, but also more time to invest in these teens and continue to stir their excitement for Christ!
Tonight is one of those nights I hope to remember for the rest of my life. I tried to take as many mental pictures as possible, trying to soak in every moment, but even those don't compare to actually experiencing it in person. In our team debrief meeting tonight, our 14 middle schoolers sat in a circle on the floor to share about our day's work. After hearing some great stories from the day, Luke raised the question, "How would you rate your spiritual life on a scale from 1-10 before coming on the mission trip until tonight?" It was great to hear how much these young teens have grown in the two day's we've been here. Their eyes have been opened. Their hearts have been changed. Our prayers have been answered. As the group continued to share, it became evident that these teens desired to spend more time with God on a daily basis by reading the Bible, but didn't know where to start. Like many of us, they struggle to make it a priority in their lives. Little did they know, Luke had packed away One Year Bibles for each person, not knowing if and when to distribute them. When he mentioned the Bibles to them, their eyes lit up and smiles filled their faces. I wish you could have seen their smiles! It was as if we just had given them new iPhones. It felt like Christmas with everyone quickly tearing open their new One Year Bibles, EXCITED to get on a daily schedule of reading the Word. While this was happening, Luke and I exchanged glances and smiles as we watched their faces light up. I have never seen anyone get that excited to receive Bibles. What a special moment that God blessed us with! My eyes filled with tears as we bowed our heads to thank God for that special moment. After we left the meeting, we headed back to our host homes and the girls and I stayed up late, as I tried to answer the many questions the girls were asking about the Bible. This morning, they all bombarded Luke at breakfast with more questions. God is definitely stirring their hearts and minds and drawing them closer to Him. It is an awesome sight to see!!
The great thing is, we still have two full days of work here in Tennessee. More opportunities to serve, yes, but also more time to invest in these teens and continue to stir their excitement for Christ!
Jun 23, 2011
How You Philly?!
"How You Philly?!....Philly good!" (an insider phrase from the week)
Thank you for partnering with me as I went toPhiladelphia , Pennsylvania,
Thank you for partnering with me as I went to
Saturday, June 11th
After prayer, hugs, and goodbyes, 22 students and 3 adults piled into vans and headed for Philadelphia Bedford , Pennsylvania
Sunday, June 12th
At breakfast, I challenged the mission team to make experiencing God an everyday occurrence over this next year by reading through the One Year Bible. This will allow us to make time for & experience God on a daily basis.
Afterwards, we headed to Kings Street Church in Chambersburg , PA.
We spent a couple hours there and then departed for our final destination, accompanied by some great singing from our students (mainly the guys). Once we arrived in Philadelphia , we joined the YouthWorks staff (the mission organization we went through) as well as two other churches (from Louisville & Toledo Pennsylvania First Church students and adults; whereas, Water Ice had five members from First Church and five members from the church in Toledo
Each evening, all the churches joined together for club time (teambuilding activities, worship, and lessons) and church group time (opportunity for discussion, processing the day, and sharing our hearts, which became the best part of each day).
Monday, June 13th
Starting Monday morning, we would spend the next four days serving at various non-for-profit organizations. This particular day the Hoagies spent time at Teens For Good, an organization that does urban gardening encouraging teens to get involved and give back to their community. Water Ice partnered with a local thrift store near our mission base called Circle Thrift Store. Hershey walked through Chinatown and went to downtown Philadelphia
An inspiring and life changing story came from the Hoagies ministry team today. Oddly enough, they started their day believing that all they were going to be doing was pulling weeds! God had bigger plans for them! As soon as they got there, they were met by their instructor, a man named Henry. Henry changed their life! He had an extremely rough story, but found God in prison and committed his life to Him. While pulling weeds, Henry left the garden to talk with a homeless man, Daniel, on the street. After sharing his faith with him and giving him food and water, Henry introduced Daniel to our ministry team. Our students got the chance to hear Daniel’s story, engage with him, encourage him, challenge him, and then circle up and pray over Daniel. After leaving Daniel, Henry was not to be found. Once the Hoagies found Henry, he told them that God had called him to bring Daniel in to the garden, but Daniel was not opening up to him; God had placed these people from Columbia City, Indiana to encourage Daniel and have him open up to them.
After dinner, everyone hopped into a van and traveled to the Philadelphia Museum of Art… a.k.a. the “Rocky Steps” and raced to the top!
Tuesday, June 14th
Day two of our journey included both the Hoagies and Hershey serving with the same organization as the first day. Water Ice, however, partnered with a non-for-profit organization called Veteran’s United. They got the opportunity to talk with homeless people, hand out food to them, hear their stories, and pray over them. Each day was so remarkable to see how God was using each of team member’s individual passions and gifts for each situation set before us.
That evening, each ministry team performed hilarious skits for the rest of the group. Our own Hoagies came out victorious, presenting the story of Jonah and the whale in a whole new fashion (Finding Nemo even made a cameo)!
Wednesday, June 15th
Today brought new experiences as each group headed to a place it had never been before: Hoagies to Whosoever Gospel Mission (rescue mission for men that helps with food, clothing, training, & counseling), Water Ice to Eliza Shirley House, and Hershey to the Ken Crest Center
During the evening, we had the wonderful privilege of going to a gospel church service at Greater Exodus Baptist Church. This service was completely different than anything we were used to in Columbia City , Indiana
Thursday, June 16th
Our last ministry day! It all goes by so quick. All three ministry teams were supposed to go back to the same ministry sites as they did yesterday. However, God had a different plan in mind. That morning, the Water Ice group (mixed of two churches) was told they were going to be serving at the Philabundance Food Bank. Praise the Lord! The group got to spend a good amount of time in discussion with the other church about their faith and what a personal relationship with Jesus looks like.
In the evening, YouthWorks partnered with the host church to have a cookout for the community in the park across the street. Kids, teens, and adults from all over came for burgers and hotdogs as well as dancing and games. Many of our students had great opportunities to invest in and be intentional in their conversations with these people.
During our last night together, we had a foot washing service. The leaders washed each one of the students’ feet and prayed over us individually. By the end of the night, students were washing one another’s feet and praying over each other (and crying). What an incredible sight to see!
Earlier in the day, the Water Ice group had some great conversations with some members from another church. They decided to meet together after the foot washing service to continue their discussion. That night, four of First Church
Friday, June 17th
Friday was an early morning as we packed up our vehicles and said our goodbyes. Before we left, we rode on the subway and got to see the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Then, after 11 hours of driving, we returned home to family and friends, forever changed and inspired to serve God.
The best is yet to come!
Luke
Jun 22, 2011
Front Row Seats
On Monday night, Luke and I took some students to the Hillsong concert in Indianapolis. For those of you who may be unfamiliar with Hillsong, they are an amazing worship band based out of Australia. Most of the worship songs sung in church today were written by Hillsong. I went to one of their concerts a couple years ago at Willow Creek Church in Chicago and it was, by far, the best worship experience I've ever encountered. I was thrilled when I found out they were coming to Indiana! We booked our tickets a while ago and had a student back out shortly before we left, so Luke's mom, Deb, ended up going with us! What a treat. When we arrived, we found our seats (which were pretty far up, but had a great view). One of the students ordered cotton candy, and we anxiously awaited the start of the concert. A few minutes before the concert was scheduled to start, a guy came up behind us and with his Australian accent, leaned down to Luke and said, "Hey Boss, do you guys want to sit in the front row tonight?" After asking many skeptical questions, we finally realized he was serious! So we ended up watching the concert from the FRONT ROW! It was incredible. We're not sure why God chose to bless us with such amazing seats, but the concert definitely exceeded our expectations. There's nothing greater than being in a room filled with thousands of people worshipping God!
Jun 13, 2011
A Busy June
As Luke and I wrapped up the end of youth group in May, we took a deep breath in and another breath out as we realized that our Sundays would be a little less hectic than they have been through the school year. Then we turned our calendar to June and everything changed. Are you ready for this? I was in San Diego all last week for a work conference (rough, I know!). I've posted pictures below just to show you how rough it really was to "work" in California all week. :) I left for San Diego the morning after Anne's graduation party and returned home the day of her graduation. I was home for a day and then Luke left for Philadelphia on a missions trip. He won't be home until Friday night, the 17th. That's just the beginning of June. This weekend also happens to be one of the busiest weekends at work for me, so just as Luke gets back, I'll be headed out the door for Freshmen Registration Weekend at HU. My office organizes and facilitiates the weekend and this Friday and Saturday, we will host about 300 students and their parents on campus. Trust me, I will be ready to put my feet up Saturday night! Fortunately, the 20th-25th, Luke and I don't have much planned, but then Luke and I jet off again on the 26th for a week in Tennessee for the middle school mission trip (luckily, this mission trip, we'll be together). Phew! Hope you made it through that. Like I told you, June is BUSY! We plan to make up for it in July with a lot of rest and relaxation. Speaking of, take a look at my San Diego pics below:
On another note, please be praying for Luke and his team of 22 students and 3 adults who are in Philly this week on the mission trip. I have already heard some great updates and stories and am looking forward to sharing some with you when Luke returns.
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| Padres vs. Rockies Baseball Game |
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| The Ladies in our Hotel Room on the Last Night |
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| My co-workers from HU who went on the trip |
On another note, please be praying for Luke and his team of 22 students and 3 adults who are in Philly this week on the mission trip. I have already heard some great updates and stories and am looking forward to sharing some with you when Luke returns.
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