I am a little sunburned.

But I think it was for a good cause.

You haven't really lived until you've done the sack races at a church picnic. It had been a reaaaallly long since I'd been in a sack race, and it was fun. I also grabbed a partner for the three-legged race. I didn't, however, enter the hog calling contest. :-)

How am I doing in general? I feel like the Lord has been continuing the lessons He's been teaching me throughout this year, about finding my sufficiency in HIM. And it's emotionally draining at times because He in His infinite wisdom allows me to go through hard things that I don't completely understand, yet by faith I am thankful for what He is teaching me. Such lessons often can only be learned in the fire.

Caty, going to lunch with you was definitely a bright spot in my day. BTW, I went and read your coffee entry on your blog. Nice!

It's been a pretty good day so far.

Slept in (of course!!!), talked on the phone for a while with a good friend from SC, used a store credit I've been meaning to use for a while. :oD

A little later I'm getting together with a friend, and I also hope to fit in a nice, long walk at the nature preserve and bake my cookies, too.

I like Saturdays.

"...we are not as strong as we think we are. We are frail, we are fearfully and wonderfully made/ Forged in the fires of human passion/Choking on the fumes of selfish rage/And with these our hells and our heavens so few inches apart/We must be awfully small/ And not as strong as we think we are."

Some of the words from this Rich Mullins song have been echoing in my head. How fragile we human beings can be. To be having an incredible week, filled with Christ's presence and feeling that nothing on this earth can faze me, to the next moment be wondering (at least, emotionally, even if I never doubt objectively) about His provision, His care.

Just because of a couple of things that, while not fun to go through at the moment, probably are not only being blown a little bit out of proportion, but also are not terribly significant in the big scheme of things. Crazyness.

Thinking back over this year so far, though, I'm incredibly encouraged. It has been rich with experience already. Some awesome times, some not so awesome, but definitely God has been doing a really deep work in my life. Teaching me those precious lessons that can only be learned in the fire. And for this, I am so grateful.

[And, a co-worker came by just now and entertained some of us with his Lawrence Welk impressions. That provided some awesome comic relief ... and, hmmmm, do I sense another great act for our next GFA talent show? :oD]

As Christians, isn't it wonderful to know that our joy is not predicated on our circumstances?

Last night Shelley, Cherie and I went to the mall and had supper together in the food court. It was truly a fun "weeknight getaway", and we each found some cute stuff on clearance. :o)

Today I was tested in something. It wasn't exactly the most fun, but I was been super encouraged to realize that something that would have been disappointing in the past really just kind of faded away as I sat back and remembered that my significance, security and worth are in the Lord, and not based on anything on this earth. Wow ... God is so good.

On another note, earlier this week our supervisor called a couple of us in to his office to let us know we wouldn't be going to EPA Convention this weekend in Orlando after all, as per a leadership decision that we should send fewer people. I totally understand, and there's always other years to go, and I'm happy that now I can make it to church and our church picnic on Sunday.

I am planning to make a big batch of chocolate chip oatmeal cookies for the occasion. :oD

I've been thinking ...

All of our joys, struggles, dreams, disappointments, hopes, tears, laughter, friends, relatives, hobbies, marriage, vocation, family, church, mountain tops, and valleys ...

For most of us living on planet earth, ALL of these things are an intregal part of our daily lives, or one day will be. And while each of these things are very important and meaningful, and not in any way to be taken lightly, they are also not "ends" in themselves, for this world is not our final home. Each of these things are a glorious backdrop our Savior uses to draw us closer to Him and conform us ever more into His image during this lifetime, until that appointed time when, because of His mercy and grace, we will join Him in heaven for all eternity.

I want to come back to this often. I tend to want to savor each moment in life and live it to its fullest. And I think there's nothing wrong with that, and life in itself is a gift God has given us; I just want to also keep "the end" (or beginning!) in sight and remember what it's all about.

5:00 P.M. My friend Shelley comes by my desk for one of her usual visits, and hands me a small box of four Whitman's chocolates. "Thought it was about time for a snack," she tells me. I think back to earlier today ... and realize this is a total "God thing".

Shelley knows I like chocolate. What she doesn't know is that today during lunch break I went to the nature preserve and walked for a bit ... It was a nice time with the Lord, and very peaceful ... it also meant that about the time she came by my desk, I was probably ready for a snack.

I LOVE when God does that.

It's gorgeous outside.

I just got back, because after church I went to a family's house for lunch. It was nice! Then I went with some others from the church for outreach at an assisted living facility in the area. I asked about it and expressed an interest, so I got drafted! [Don't worry, though, I didn't mind. :o)]

Now I'm not sure what I'm going to do ... a group of friends from the ministry are playing soccer but they started at 4, so ... :c) I may go and take a walk at the nature preserve like I did yesterday. That was really nice.

This morning in church, the pastor talked about how all the problems and struggles we face in this life are greater symptoms, ultimately, of the infinitely greater problem of a broken relationship with God. It reminded me of how we were made for eternity, not for this life. We will always have struggles and problems in this life, to a degree.

It can be so very easy to forget we were crafted for eternity ... and that this life is, really, so very short ... because we are surrounded with, bombarded by, the "here and now."

Gotta love Fridays. :o)

It was a good day.

I went to Qdoba Mexican Grill for lunch with Cindi, a friend and co-worker. We had never been, but both give it a "thumbs up." Very reasonable, good food, enough leftovers for tomorrow's lunch. :o) We had a nice time catching up.

Tonight I caught up with my friend and former roommie, Tirina, over pizza and Dutch cookies. :o) We prayed together, watched one episode of this interesting fashion show, and watched the movie Rat Race! Then I was sleepy all of a sudden. But we had a nice time together.

Right after work today, I got my hair cut. As the lady gets ready to style it, she suddenly blurts out rather animatedly, in her cute El Salvador accent, "The flat iron is going to be your new best friend." [My hair is naturally wavy, and she decided to use a flat iron to straighten it tonight. I took pictures to document the event, as my hair will likely never be that straight again. :oD] I let out a hearty laugh, for she and I both know, or at least she should know, that:
A) I hardly even know what a flat iron is; I *barely* know what a curling iron is. LOL.
B) I like to stick to the basics and keep it very simple ... my hair "routine" pretty much consists of washing it, brushing it, and maybe putting it back in a barrette or ponytail holder. Oh yeah, and blowdrying it if I've washed it right before I need to be somewhere. :c)
C) Most of the time, I don't really even wear make-up. Sometimes I do put on lip gloss and mascara.

Still, it was kind of fun watching her try, as she proceeded to tell me all about the "how-to's" of using a flat-iron and where to buy one.

"... if Christ is raised, and if trusting him means that I will be raised with him, then this life is just a brief prelude to eternal life with Christ and ever-increasing joy with him. And if that is true, then Paul is no fool. His life of radical, risk-taking, sacrificial love is not to be pitied. Pity not them that rise with Christ. Without the resurrection we tend to want our pleasures here and now, and so we avoid risk and danger and difficulty and pain and discomfort and frustration; and so our love is tame and bland and weak and cautious and timid. But, Jesus says, if you believe that your joy in the resurrection will make up for a thousand losses and self-denials and sacrifices and dangers and risks here for the sake of love, then you will love people without a view to what you can get out of it here. It will be sustained by the joy set before you (see Hebrews 12:2). And that will be the kind of love that we all dream about from time to time."
--Jon Piper

I heartily agree with Jon Piper, that "this is the kind of love that we all dream about from time to time." But are we willing to make the sacrifices to have that kind of love?

I have been thinking lately. About how what I may want (or THINK I want) for me is not always--even often not--what GOD wants for me. I may get distracted by the "here and now," but He is always thinking about what will be best for me in the LONG run ... what will build my character. God is far more concerned with our character than our comfort. I heard that a retreat a few years ago, and it's really stuck with me. I find it very comforting when I go through difficult times.

I think about how there were certain things I wished for in college. God in His infinite wisdom didn't grant them to me, although I wanted them so badly. But if I had gotten what I wished for, the whole course of my life would have changed, and I probably wouldn't have come out here to Texas and had the privilege to serve Him here. That's not to say I wouldn't be growing as a Christian still, and all that ... but my life would have definitely been different than it is now.

By coming here to serve at GFA, there have definitely been, by default, things I've had to give up. And it hasn't been easy. There are things at times that don't make sense to me, and that I don't understand. But at the same time, from a kingdom perspective, I don't think there's any better place I could be in this lifetime ... having the opportunity to labor for eternity through my "9 to 5ish" job. What a privilege. And, too, the other day I was sitting around, thinking, "Wow, I actually ENJOY my job." How many people can say that about their vocation?

Last night I went over to Denton to hang out and eat great fajitas with other young people from the church. We all laughed really hard, and I think a good time was had by all. :o)

One of the guys entertained us with the story of his stolen stuffed monkey with orange hair. I found it absolutely hilarious that his friend actually filed a police report for a stolen stuffed monkey. :oD

My SEND! articles both came together today -- yay! That's always pretty exciting. :o) It was almost two in the afternoon before I handed them in and took a break for lunch, but I totally didn't mind becuase late lunches make the afternoon go by so fast. In celebration, I went and ate at the Willow Bend Mall (Chick-fila) and worked on Philippians. :o) I can't wait to have all four chapters memorized. I'm still working on finishing up Chapter One right now.

It's got to be one of my favorite books of the Bible.

Today our "newcomers" class at church was canceled, so I sat in on the main Sunday school class. The pastor was talking about worship, and how they are so much wanting to gear things in such a way to where people experience Jesus as their everything.

This is so much what I desire in my own life. That He be my biggest, all-consuming passion. It is wonderful to be in His presence, spending time with Him, and that's something I need to do much more!

It was fun; after church, I got two lunch invites and one supper invite for tomorrow! Today I ate with Dennis and Dawn's family, along with several others. We had pot roast, carrots and potatoes. Yum! It was a nice time. I love that I'm already getting to know people at my new church. I already felt this was the church for me, even before I really knew anybody, so it's an added bonus that I've already gotten to meet and talk to so many people there.

I took an hour nap this afternoon, chatted with my mom, and knew I needed to buckle down and work on my SEND! articles, with the deadline close approaching. But I felt I should have time with the Lord first, as He needs to be my inspiration so I can write His words. So ... I felt like He wanted me to read in Exodus. I didn't necessarily have a strong desire to read there today, so I was like, "Are you sure, Lord? Did I hear you right?"

Anyhow, God is SO awesome. I started reading in Exodus and could hardly put it down. Six chapters later, I finally was like, "Okay, I've GOT to start working on my articles." The awesome thing was that reading about the Egyptians and their slavery totally parallels the article I was planning to work on tonight, about our outreach to the Dalits who are in a sense enslaved as the "lowest of the low" in their society.

And the really cool thing? I was reading about Moses, and thinking, Whoa. He got to be a part of liberating the Israelites; how exciting for him! Then I remembered, Wow, I'm getting to reach out to the Dalit people and see THEM experience freedom in Christ. Incredible -- what a privilege.

God is so good.

It's Friday.

This week has gone by so fast. I'm about to go home and make a recipe in the crockpot, then get out for a little bit. :o)

Last night I found some really cute paper lanterns at Old Navy. They were 3 for $10, which seemed like a good deal. So I got three.

Tonight I'm going to get some batteries for them at Wal-mart, and some twine. I can't wait to see them all lit up! :oD

Tomorrow I'm meeting up with other young people on staff for volleyball/frisbee/cookout. That should be fun! I'm hoping I can play volleyball without my feet really hurting, since it's not a lot of running around like soccer would be. ;o) Earlier tomorrow afternoon, a few gals are coming over to see me and us go swimming at the complex! Not sure who all is coming; Maddie's getting a group together.

Then this Sunday is church. I can't wait! I like my new church so much.

Well I had better get home and start my crockpot recipe before the night takes a life of its own.

I took the first part of the day off to run errands, which kind of made the afternoon go by fast. I'm enjoying a lot of the various writing projects I've been working on. The two articles I've been working on for our upcoming SEND! are going quite well so far. I'm so thankful!

I love working on SEND! stuff.

It's been overcast all day, and there's a light drizzle outside right now. Even though I usually much prefer sunny days, there's something kind of pleasant about it.

I still need to get my car inspected. I thought about doing it right after work, but I may wait for another day. I am thinking about using one of my Chick-fila coupons tonight. :o) I have one for a FREE sandwich.

100th customer.

I wasn't, but it sure would have been nice if I were. It would have meant FREE FOOD at Chick-fila, my all-time favorite! And you wouldn't believe, but I very narrowly missed being the 100th customer of the day.

I think it was the lady who was helped right after me, at the next register over. Suddenly I heard all the people behind the counter cheering and yelling out, "100th customer!"

But at least I had a coupon, so my meal was still pretty cheap. The 350,000th customer gets free Chick-fila meals for a YEAR. For a Chick-fila lover like me, this would be a dream come true. ;oD I mean, you're talking to the person who was willing to dress up in a cow costume, just to get a free combo meal during a special promotion they were having. Unfortunately, I got sick that day and was unable to perform the feat, but I had witnesses who going to be there to document the special event!

Aren't you glad God's grace, His unmerited favor, is limitless ... and not confined to "every 100th or 350,000th time"? I know I am. I thank the Lord for the lessons He has been teaching me lately, and I want to be more faithful in applying them.

My dental cleaning went very well. I enjoy going over there and chatting with the people who work there. Now I'm going home to rest a bit before tonight's prayer meeting, which I'm looking forward to. My team leader will be getting to share requests for our department, the C&E Department, tonight! He has been such a blessing in my life. I truly thank God for him!

This will probably be short, as pretty soon I'm leaving the office to go eat at Wendy's (and pray together!) with my good friend Tirina. :o) We're meeting at Wendy's at 6:30, so this has been a good opportunity for me to catch up on blog entries.

I look forward to the time we'll have together. It's always encouraging sharing what the Lord is doing in our lives as we meet together to pray each week, and I am very excited about the food and fellowship, too! :oD

Tonight I am not sure what all I'll be doing. Probably relaxing and watching a movie and doing some things around the apartment. Also, I'd like to maybe get out in my garden plot at the complex to water and weed it. My little rose bush that I "inherited" is producing beautiful little pink roses again; I like to see those!

Tomorrow I have a dental cleaning at 11:30.

Resurrection Sunday.

I went to my new church again. [I had to miss last Sunday because of a previous commitment at my previous church.] I was so looking forward to being back again. The message was really good, about the demon-possessed man (Mark 5:1-20) whose life was radically transformed by Jesus. The pastor made some great points about what being a follower of Christ truly means, and also brought up the very encouraging truth that if God can transform and use a man possessed by so many demons, how is not ALSO able to transform and use OUR lives, however unpromising they may seem at times?

Very encouraging. I know there's MUCH I desire to see the Lord do in my life. And that excites me. Of course, I need to be willing, too. Truly willing.

I like this new church so much and every week feel so thankful for it ... and excited to be there! I thank the Lord for His faithfulness in leading me there.

When I reached home, I had some wonderful time with the Lord, singing worship songs. I also pulled out of the freezer some white chicken chili I made earlier in the month. I also took a nap and watched a little of Pride and Prejudice while picking up a little around the apartment. It was such a restful and peaceful time.

And tonight, the husband and wife Shelley and I visited this weekend (she's the one on bedrest for 3 months!) had me over for lasagna. It worked out really well for them to have lasagna today, because that's their traditional Easter dinner anyhow, and if I'm not mistaken, Len (the husband) is the one who generally makes it as well. I think Tiffie was able to get up for just a little bit yesterday to start her special homemade sauce on the stove. It was all delicious. We all had a nice visit together; they expressed that they were so glad I could come, and I was incredibly touched, too, by their hospitality.

It was a good day.

I slept in late.

It was a beautiful day out, and very warm. I went swimming just for a little bit. The water was very cold at first, but once I got in and got used to it, it wasn't bad at all. ;o)

Tonight Shelley and I joined a bunch of other single folks to eat Easter dinner with Chloe, a dear widow on staff who very graciously opened her home to us. The food was delicious and it was nice sitting out by the pool in the back, with the wind blowing.

And we even got Easter goodies! That's right, she brought us each a bag of Easter goodies. It was really fun ... it felt like getting an Easter basket all over again. It's been a LONG time since I've gotten one of those. I used to LOVE that. That, and getting a stocking.

[Then again, it's fun being "all grown up". :o)]

Shelley and I ate at Quiznos and went to the mall. That was fun! We mainly went in Christopher & Banks, where I found a really cute skirt and shirt that I got as an Easter oufit. It was fun trying things on and asking the friendly salespeople for feedback. :o)

We also went to another store in the mall, where we each found pretty necklaces for just $6. My necklace has bright pink buttons on it. I like it!

Before setting off on our shopping excursion, we did get to visit for at least an hour with the young wife going through hard times. [It depended on how she was feeling today, so we were to call her and check to see.] Because of a sciatic nerve problem that is causing MUCH pain, it sounds like, she is prescribed to bedrest for the remaining three months of her pregnancy. She and her husband have been an incredible example to me in their perspective through all of this. When he shared with the rest of our staff one morning during prayer meeting, he basically told us, "Tiffie wants all of you to know that in no way does this change our resolve to be here. We know this is where we are supposed to be."

Tonight Shelley and I went to a special service at Stonebriar Community Church (my old church) for Good Friday. It was a powerful time of reflecting on Jesus, how great is His love for me, and how much I love Him back . . . and being convicted and realizing I want to show Him, in practical ways, that I love Him much more than I have been lately. I journaled during the service some of my thoughts and how powerfully I was sensing the Lord's presence. He almost felt close enough to touch.

I love moments like that.

Today begins a three day weekend.

YAY! I can't believe how quickly this week has gone by. Wow! It's definitely been a good week.

It's beautiful outside. I need to run by the bank to make a quick deposit, and then check on Mo and Dietrich. :o) [of course!]

Tomorrow my friend Shelley and I are meeting up to go eat at Quizno's and swing by Christopher and Banks, a store we both like. And we're hoping to go visit a young wife who is going through some hard times!

Happy Easter.

I am sleepy again. Go figure?! But Friday I can sleep in because we don't come in to work -- yay! And Sunday I get to be at my wonderful new church the Lord has provided for me!

This has been a good day overall. It's gone by pretty fast.

It was fun seeing the cats yesterday. Mo was especially happy to see me, I think, bounding up to me with meows and fur rubs, but I think Dietrich [whom I've been told "doesn't like to be picked up" :o)] was kind of glad I was there as well! I love cats.

I enjoyed getting to share the C&E requests last night at prayer meeting.

I am feeling sleepy.

This post won't be very long because I have two hungry cats, Mo and Dietrich, awaiting my care before I can rest and get ready for tonight's prayer meeting. :oD No, I don't have a cat ... although someday I would really LIKE to own one. [I personally think they are one of God's most beautiful animal creations. :o)]

I'm simply taking care of some cats this week for a married couple serving at the ministry, while they are in Washington encouraging supporters and friends. [Oh yeah, and one of the cats actually belongs to another co-worker who is out of town for just a little bit, helping with a ministry initiative that by God's grace will reach so many with the Gospel.]

Way cool, what both sets of cat owners are doing, and that I can be a small part by taking care of their handsome felines.

I can't believe how quickly today has passed. All in all, it's been a GOOD day. Juli and I went to lunch at Arby's and had fun talking about awesome experiences in India, as well as Christopher and Banks, one of our favorite clothing stores that I discovered only a few weeks ago. :oD My friend Shelley just loves it there; a few moments after we first walked in, it was so much fun seeing her run around like a kid in the candy store! She was excited because she had been looking for exactly those kinds of clothes (more casual, but still nice!) for work.

We also had our weekly editors review meeting at work, this morning. This is basically a meeting to go over reports from the field, and discuss/decide which of our various publications they'll be used in. Our time went well, and we had some really great laughs as well.

And tonight, I'm looking forward to relaxing around the apartment (after I make one stop). While I watch a movie and go through some things at the apartment, I am going to put ice on my feet and rub them, as this is supposed to help them get better. I'm thankful that I can still bike ride for exercise, even if I can't take long walks! Of course, I think my bike tires need to be checked out because they've been losing air very quickly. :oD

Well, have a good evening, friends.

I rented the cutest movie yesterday. I also took a four-hour nap, talked to my friend Nicole from S.C. :o), made southwest chicken chili (yum!), talked to my mom, and took a bike ride.

The name of the movie was The Prince and Me II. [Guys, it was definitely a chick flick! But for the most part VERY clean, which is a wonderful and pleasant surprise considering so many movies these days.]

I had a nice evening after waking up from my long siesta. And you couldn't have asked for more beautiful weather; it was gorgeous out.

Last night, I mean, uh, this morning :oD, was all-night prayer here at GFA. Even though I was tired and at first struggling with something when I arrived, as I got into the evening I felt energized and invigorated to be around His people, my brothers and sisters in Christ, interceding for the things that are on HIS heart. Praise God.

Yesterday afternoon, relaxing a little at my apartment before all-night prayer, I was thinking again about how I am thankful for how hard circumstances drive me to a deeper walk with Christ [when I allow them to!]. I am very thankful for that and excited for that in a "by faith" sense, but it still doesn't mean the hard times are always easy to go through.

Well, just then, seeking some encouragement and a chance to "refocus", I was listening to a really good sermon tape from church. [I liked that sermon so much I bought the $5 CD. :o)] The speaker was going through the life of Joseph, and something he said stood out to me once again: "Nothing in our lives is wasted. Every suffering, every hardship has a purpose." I was so happy to be reminded of this that I practically wanted to jump up and down, right there in my apartment. :o)

Which, by the way, probably wouldn't have been a good idea for two reasons:
1) I live in a second-story apartment, and the poor person below probably would have thought I was crazy or something. Oh wait, she already thinks that. [just kidding :o)]
2) My feet have been hurting for several weeks now, even without doing that much walking. I have been putting ice on it and rubbing it, as my mom suggested, and I will try to do some stretches that can help it. And the most powerful thing, ultimately, is prayer! This being said, though, I was thinking about all this yesterday, and although it's not fun for them to hurt since I haven't been able to take my walks at the nature preserve, I am also willing to go through this if this is something God wants for me at this time. It is a privilege to suffer for His sake in this way, if He would want this. I know it is all for a greater purpose, something beyond me.

I am so thankful for these wonderful lessons learned through hardship [really very small hardship in the large scheme of things!], and for the perspective I can have because of Jesus. Now if I could just take all this I am learning and use it to die to my flesh more often. [Translation: I tend to do better with "suffering" that I have no control over than me purposing in my heart to deliberately CHOOSE to crucify my flesh, not because I have to, but for a greater good.] But the Lord is really working on me ... and I thank Him for that. Caty and I had such a good chat at lunch the other day, and I was telling her how I was so thankful that He loves us enough to deliberately orchestrate things in our lives in such a way as to drive us closer to HIM. That's my heart's desire ... intimacy with HIM. [I know I can say that for Caty as well!]

Well, I am excited about what this day holds. I am planning to fix a white kidney bean chicken chili, and looking forward to that. :o) I may also go bike riding; that should be fine for my feet! And of course I want to catch up on picking up around the apartment and all, and probably get out a little bit and pay a few bills.

Each day we get to be here on this earth, breathing and worshipping our Creator, is special.

This is hilarious.

I didn't make it to a movie at the dollar theater last night, either. [Hmmmm ... is God trying to tell me something? :o)] Instead, I ran into a neighbor and acquaintance when I was going to feed Miss Priscilla. We have met before at the nature preserve and recognized each other. We also ran into each other a couple of weeks ago at Kohl's and were chatting like we'd always known each other. :o)

Anyhow, she was saying how she'd just thought about me the other day but realized she didn't know how to get in touch with me, but figured we'd run into each other again. [I really think it was a divine encounter!] She told me to come by after I fed Miss Priscilla, so we could exchange numbers. What is really cool is that I got to witness (just a little) to her and her daughter, who's a single mom.

I love when things like that happen. God is good.

Caty and I had a nice lunch. And now I have half a chicken salad sandwich I can enjoy today or tomorrow for supper. :o)

Last night I didn't go see a movie at the dollar theater. I stayed home and picked up a little in the apartment and then had some time with the Lord, singing praise songs. But around 9, I got tired and decided it would be good to go to bed. ; )

I may go see a movie at the dollar theater tonight; we'll see! I know that right after work I need to go by my friend's house and check on her cat, Miss Priscilla. And check her mail ... and mine. :o)

There is a situation in which I want to fully trust God for the outcome. I know ultimately He can always be trusted; it can just be a challenge when it comes to life circumstances. I think He is teaching me patience and trust.

Even though it's not always fun, and my flesh doesn't like it, I thank the Lord that He loves me enough to orchestrate circumstances in my life in such a way as to drive me closer to Him and make me more like Him, which are my heart's desires.

Today our Believers Cafe downstairs served meatloaf and mashed potatoes. YUM. I thoroughly enjoyed my lunch. Here I go, talking about food again. :o)

I just got done vacuuming and cleaning in our department area. We all take turns doing that. It went pretty well, although I hope my shoulders aren't sore tomorrow from pushing around the vaccuum we all have affectionately dubbed "Big Blue." They were already a little sore, I think.

Well, I am looking forward to doing something nice and relaxing this evening ... even if just grabbing supper with one of my Chick-fila coupons. :o) I was thinking I might go see a movie at the dollar theater .... we'll see. I've sort of been wanting to see Cheaper By the Dozen 2 sometime or another, if I get the chance.

Tomorrow I'm going to lunch with a co-worker and friend, Caty. It's so encouraging to me when we get together, because often we go through similar kinds of things and can share (at least in a general way) what we are going through and what the Lord is teaching us.

I don't know about you, but for me, I am SO encouraged to find out I'm not "the only one". ;o)

Our group lunch at McAlister's was fun.

I split the smoked turkey sandwich on sourdough bread, with fruit cup as a side, with one of my friends and co-workers, Erik. We all had a nice time!

Tonight is prayer meeting . . . and there are a few things I may go do before then. I still have a "close to my heart" situation I'm wanting to trust GOD completely for, without reservation. I KNOW deep down He can be trusted, it's just hard sometimes when it comes to real-life circumstances that are uncertain or that I'm seeking His perspective in.

I think He is teaching me much in this area, though.

Well I should go. I'm looking forward to prayer meeting tonight. Catch you all later!

I like my new church so much.

The Muslim outreach seminar went well. I learned a few things about Muslims, but I think the biggest thing the Lord really blessed me with was getting to know people from the church.

I am so excited to be there -- and thrilled at how God has made His leading so clear thus far. I wrote an email just now to the Sunday school teacher and his wife at my "old" church. They, as well as the whole group there, have meant SO much to me. I feel the Lord really blessed me with their companionship, just when I most needed it. And, as I told them in my note, "I don't intend to be a stranger. Think of this more as 'see you a little less often' than 'goodbye'. :o)

Well, I'm heading home now so I can straighten up a little in the apartment, because Tirina is coming over in a few minutes so we can have chili and pray together. I look forward to that.

Then tomorrow is a big group lunch at McAlister's. I can't wait.

Yesterday at the picnic was so nice.

I caught up with and prayed with friends on staff, walked around the little lake, swang on the swings, played lots of volleyball, and of course ate to my little heart's content. :oD

It was truly a memorable time!

Tonight I'm meeting up with some gals from my prayer and share group at Stonebriar, the church I was going to until the Lord directed me to the new church. We're eating at Mi Cocina. I've never eaten there before, but it SOUNDS good. (Tex-Mex! Need I say more?!)

Tomorrow I'm going to a Muslim outreach seminar at my new church. It will be all-day which could get slightly tiring, but I am truly looking forward to this opportunity to not only start getting to know people at my church, but especially also to learn how I can more effectively intercede for the Muslim world.

It's been totally incredible how the Lord has directed me to this new church. HE is SO good. I could write more, but I'm really hoping to make some much-needed returns at Kohl's and use a coupon there before I go to Mi Cocina to meet the gals, so I should really get going.

This is my 345th post.

We all are fixing to leave the office, because we've having a staff picnic this afternoon! Ruthie, who is my age and has been raising support to join us on staff, will be coming. I look forward to catching up with and hopefully encouraging her. :o)

I have an "unspoken" that is dear to my heart. I KNOW I can fully trust God with it ... that HE is always good and He knows what's best. I think He is teaching me a lot about trusting Him, in various circumstances. Not that it's always been easy, but I feel encouraged that I have definitely been learning more about trusting Him, even when I don't really know what's going on.

Well, now I'm going home to change clothes, grab a couple games and maybe even catch a quick snooze before going out to the picnic. : ) Later.

I think it was a good day overall.

I had a nice time eating spaghetti downstairs in our Believers Cafe with my friend Kara. She was the first person I saw upon arriving on staff here, which was special. We almost immediately knew we would be great friends!

Something else especially exciting, Kara happened to mention today how she enjoys being on the worship team at the church she and her husband attend, singing songs and playing piano. I asked if she would like her keyboard back. (She had sold it for a good price to people at the ministry, and my roommates at the time, being the kind and thoughtful people that they are, grabbed it for me since they knew I played the piano!) I appreciate the thought, but have rarely had the chance to play the keyboard, and right now it's in storage in my small apartment.

So what was really cool today is that my friend was like, "Really? Are you sure?! I have been praying for a keyboard, and everytime I thought I was going to get one, I've had to use the extra money for something else. But it's been on my heart to keep praying." [I LOVE it when that happens. ] God is awesome!

And something else really fun? She has decided that since she is being blessed again with a keyboard, I should be "blessed" with a Market Fresh chicken salad sandwich from Arby's. Just to see how I could be a blessing, how God worked in that way, was enough for me, but, hey, if she is going to insist on treating me to a delicious sandwich next time we go to lunch together, I won't complain. :o)

God is good.

Last night, after Tirina and I had finished praying together, I had an incredible time with the Lord. I was walking along the road in front of the office, praying and singing out to Him. :o) And seeking His face a little in regards to certain areas of my life. I am excited to see what He will do! [I can fully trust Him ... each moment ... regardless of each circumstance that comes my way. He knows what He's doing!]

It was an absolutely WONDERFUL time of being in His presence and communing with Him. I love Him so much and ultimately want to be so much closer to Him! He has been so gentle and patient with me, I must say. I want to be more faithful! I love being with Him.

Before prayer meeting tonight, a few co-workers and I went to Sonic for half-price burgers and other treats. :o) It was quite fun. At one point, we were even singing along with the oldies' music. :oD

Several people complimented me on the outfit I was wearing tonight. That was really fun. :o)

I just got back to my desk from praying with Tirina. We spent an hour praying and sharing about what the Lord has been doing in each of our lives.

And, wow, I feel so encouraged.

We are each going through situations in our lives that aren't the easiest, but the Lord is using them to help us walk more closely with HIM ... and to rest ultimately in HIM and look to HIM for our fulfillment. And for that, we are thankful.

As I write this, a beautiful hawk is sitting on the light post outside. Thank You, Lord! I have always enjoyed watching these wonders of God's creation, but now it's especially meaningful when I see one -- I am reminded of God's tender care over every aspect of my life. [See March 13 entry]

And this morning, I happened to glance up from writing a note to a ministry supporter to see a co-worker smiling at me. It made my morning. It's like the Lord knew I needed that at that moment.

I love those moments when God chooses to show His loving care over my life by blessing me with "the little things". :O)

[P.S. The Lord also allowed something quite encouraging to happen in regards to the painful situation I mentioned in yesterday's entry.]

Today's message at church (Christ Pres.) was so good. It was about how Jesus went through everything we would go through and how Jesus cares. How looking at the Cross shows us that.

It was totally what I needed to hear. And on the way in to church, "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" started playing on the radio, and I almost broke down in tears. It was so applicable to what I had been going through and praying about. I felt moved that the Lord allowed me to hear that, and felt He had given me the song for that moment.

There have been situations in my life at different times [and one in particular, recently] that have been painful, that the Lord has allowed for whatever reason. I know He has a purpose. And, if nothing else, it has brought me to my knees before Him to yearn all the more to grow closer to Him, which is most important ... by faith, I am thankful for the pain, for it has driven me to remember that my sufficiency is in Him and Him Alone. That He and He Alone will never let me down.

Praise God.

[On a different note, I'm fixing to go play soccer with some young people from the ministry. I look forward to that. It's such a nice day for it.]

I had the privilege to go and hear some of our interns share about their India trip at a local church. Hearing some of the things they shared so encouraged and motivated me to want to pray more and be more dedicated and committed in laboring to reach the lost.

What a privilege is ours.

After I heard the interns share, I met up with Shelley so we could go and look for her a mother of the groom dress for her son's wedding. This was our second big excursion out to look for this outfit ... and today we were successful! YAY! We prayed as we were leaving, and it was like GOD directed us to the right place and everything. It wasn't even somewhere that was on our "itinerary." It's a kind of mauvish-pink dress and looks lovely on her.

My feet are soooooo tired now. But it was such a nice day hanging out together. I found a few things for myself, too! When we were done shopping for mother of the groom dresses and could just "play" we went to a different mall, and found this really neat store that Shelley just loved, that had great clothes she'd been looking for to wear for work, but couldn't find anywhere. I'm so happy for her, and it was so much fun watching her excitement as she walked around the store -- it was kind of like a little kid in a candy store for the first time. :o)

And today I ate at one of my favorite restaurants for lunch, Chick-fila. [Who could complain about that?]

Shelley, Shar, Angie and I all hung out tonight.

First we went to this one store where we just had a few minutes to look around before they closed, then we went to Steinmart. It was fun chatting, trying on stuff, and giving each other our opinions. : )

We also went and ate at Reb Lobster. I've never eaten there before and was impressed that not only is the food reasonable, but my apple walnut chicken salad (which was very tasty!) will last me probably two more meals. :oD

Tonight was so much fun!

Today went by pretty quickly.

The Lord brought together a web story I'd been working on, that had tricky parts. That was a good feeling! And now it's "out of my hands" and in proofing. :o)

I'm so excited about my plans for after work (as soon as I finish this post).

First I'm going to Costco to pick up my pictures from one-hour developing. There will be pictures from the missions conference at my much-loved college church, as well as some pictures from last night's surprise birthday party for one of the girls on staff, where we played Twister.

[I don't think I'd played that game since early junior high; my arms were so sore today. :oD]

Then I'm going across the street to the mall, where there will be an event with "light refreshments" and I'll use my Chick-fila coupon and a coupon for American Greeting Card Co. :o)

Tonight when I get back, I also hope to pick up some around the apartment. AND have time with the Lord!

I look forward to a nice, relaxing evening.

Today was my Daddy's birthday.

My mom made him crabmeat casserole (his favorite! :O)) and a buttermilk pound cake. I sent him an e-card with a frog that catches a fly. I figured he'd probably like it, and he did. :o)

I had the opportunity a few minutes ago to run a quick errand for Dorie, my good friend and former roommate. I considered it a privilege! She is having over for supper a potential intern and her mother, and wanted cake to go with strawberries to make strawberry shortcake.

Just now, I've been catching up blog entries from when I didn't get a chance to post. And now? I'm heading home, I think, to rest and the like, before we have prayer meeting tonight.

The interns will be sharing about their India trip -- YAY!

My friend Julia and I met up tonight after work. We had a nice time together! First I picked her up at a car repair shop where she had dropped off her daughter's vehicle. Then, we went back to her apartment for supper and a movie. I had beef stew and she had chicken alfredo. :o)

I enjoyed my evening; I just can't believe how tired I was, even as early as 8 or 9 '0 clock. :oD

The weather was really pretty today; it was hard to believe it rained so hard over the weekend. Over lunch time, I walked and prayed in a neighborhood across the street.

It was a rainy day.

So when I awoke this morning, I thought about going to my "current" (not new) church, as it is quite a bit closer than the church I've started visiting.

I ended up there, and it was incredible; it's like there was a purpose for me being back there, even though I missed getting to visit the other church, the other I sense the Lord may be leading me toward.

For one, my old friend Tracy from our Sunday school class was there, and we had the opportunity to catch up as I gave her a ride to our group lunch. IF I hadn't been back at that church today, I probably wouldn't have gotten to see her.

AND ... the message was incredible. We had a guest speaker who basically went through highlights of the life of Joseph, and the many trials he faced. He shared how everything is for a reason and how God is in utter and complete control over, for example, broken hopes, hard times, prolonged waiting, and, especially, in control over EVERYTHING that happens in our lives, good and bad. It was so encouraging.

So, there were two great reasons for me being at that church today. I love it when that happens. Thank you, Lord.

My parents had such a nice time today with my friends from my college church! And they were deeply grateful for all the wonderful help as well ... and absolutely amazed at everything that got done today!

I had a nice day, too, hanging out with my friend from work, Shelley. We went to Kohl's and she found some work outfits, and I found a couple things as well. We both found some great jewelry on sale. :o)

We had fun eating at Quizno's and then shopping some more before meeting up with friends from my Sunday school group later today.

It was a very nice day.

I'm looking forward to the weekend!

Tonight I look forward to maybe running by a couple places really quick, but mostly probably just relaxing and getting stuff done around the apartment. : )

Then tomorrow, my friend Shelley and I are taking a mini shopping excursion. She spotted a store with a really good sale and asked if I'd like to join her. I was like, "Sure!" She needs to find some things, so we may also run by the mall and places like that.

I'll also meet up with some friends from Sunday school, tomorrow night. And I'm looking forward to visiting the new church again this Sunday. It will be exciting to see how the Lord continues to lead me as far as churches. I just want to be at the church HE has for me. :oD

Oh, and some people from my college church are heading down to the Coast tomorrow to help my parents (and others, too, I think!) for a little bit with hurricane-related stuff. I'm so glad for that! I've truly been touched by all the people, far and near, who have given of their time to help people in my hometown.

I can't believe it's Thursday.

In some ways, this week has gone by fast. Some of us went over last night to Chloe's again, to help unload one of her family member's moving trucks. Afterwards she fed us hot beef sandwiches and yummy desserts! It was a nice time of fellowshiping with other staff.

It is so nice outside; I may go take a walk for a bit. That and hang around my apartment, working on some things and also just plain 'ole relaxing. :o)

Tomorrow I'm going to lunch with Dawn, another staff member. She is a mom and works part-time at the office. We're going to Arby's -- yum! :o) Chicken salad sandwich, here I come!

[I went to Arby's earlier this week with another friend from work, but you won't see me complaining about going a second time -- their Market Fresh sandwiches are delish! Nicole, if you're reading this blog right now you're probably laughing at this point. You love to tease me about how I'm always mentioning food on my blog. :oD]

This morning I didn't get up as early ... but still had time to read Genesis 2.

God is so good to us. His kindness is incredible to me, that even knowing we would sin and grieve His heart, He still created a beautiful place for Adam to live in, and provided wonderfully for him in every way. How incredible that must have been -- probably more beauty in the setting than the most scenic place you can imagine on this earth, and supremely beautiful for a little while, because untainted by sin.

Wow.

God's Word is truly so living and active. There's nothing like it. Reading passages like this colors my day with a bright, heavenly hue: With a God like that, why do I ever doubt that He has my best interests at heart, in EVERY circumstance? And that He loves me more than I can imagine, cares about my life even down to the tiniest, most minute detail, and can be trusted in ALL circumstances.

I don't know about you, but I am glad to know a God like that.

It's hard for me to get up in the mornings. I'm so not a morning person ... and usually I'll wait until the last possible minute (practically!) to get up.

But this morning I found myself rising up early to read in Genesis 1, where I have started reading just recently so I can have more consistency in my quiet times and also read through the entire Bible.

Part of the text talked about God creating the birds. Wanting very much to find application in what I read, even at 7:15 in the morning as I sat up in my bed, I found myself thinking for a moment of how kind God is to us, that even knowing that mankind would sin against Him, He created beautiful birds for us to enjoy.

Then I hustled about to get ready in my probably still half-asleep state, not thinking much more about it for the moment.

Well, during prayer meeting this morning just moments later, the guy sharing requests stopped himself suddenly stopped himself to point out this huge, beautiful hawk outside. It was so cute; it looked like it was peeking in at us through the window. :o)

Wow.

God is so good. Even in those spiritual "dry" times like it feels like now, He can be trusted. And He is at work. Yesterday's sermon at church was encouraging about trusting God to bring to maturity the seeds He plants in our lives and those of other people. The pastor reminded us of Philippians 1:6, challenging us to TRUST God that, truly, He who has began a good work in us WILL bring it to completion.

I visited the new church today.

Nothing earth-shattering happened, but pretty much the whole time I was there, I kept having this wonderful sense of peace, this feeling like, I should be here.

I have peace about at least pursuing this new direction and seeing where it goes. It will be neat to see what the Lord does.

Every Sunday they have communion, which is kind of neat. I have never been anywhere where they do that every week! Anyhow, it was a neat time of renewal ... of seeking the Lord's face and being reminded that I want my focus to be on HIM, not me. It can be so easy to get distracted ... I can be so selfish and preoccupied with my own things.

And deep down, I don't want to be that way! I love HIM so much and want to be closer to Him and do that which brings HIM glory.

Today a big group of us on staff went and moved Chloe into her new home where she will live with family. Chloe's a sweetheart. She's one of those people everyone calls "mom". :o)

It was truly a fun time with everyone, going back and forth and moving stuff, lots of joking around, and enjoying some yummy food at the end.

I also went walking a bunch today. I try to be sure to get some good exercise in on the weekends. :o)

Ok, I’m not the only one with Spring Fever, I just stood up and realized that our Creative guy was playing baseball over all the cubicles with the guys in IT. The "ball" is some kind of CD.

This was in an email from my friend Cotrina, and I found it hilarious in the best way. It doesn't get much better than that. :o)

With this beautiful weather and having trouble focusing, I had spring fever today, too. Which is why I took my lunch really late so the afternoon would go by fast!

Tonight some of us from church are hanging out at Cotrina's house for a game night. I'm looking forward to that!

In the meantime, I should probably go by the bank before heading to my apartment to get ready.

I'm back.

It's a gorgeous day outside. I love days like this!

I'm fixing to leave the office and go walking for a bit at the nature preserve. Then tonight is ladies' meeting at the office. I got so much out of last month's and am looking forward to this time.

Still excited about visiting the church this Sunday. It would be really fun if it does end up to be the one God wants me at, because it has the same name as my much-loved college church. :o)

Post #325.

With that profound thought, I begin today's post. :o)

I have been realizing just how rich my life is ... not in terms of "stuff" or money but in terms of lessons the Lord has taught me, and the enriching relationships He has been blessing me with in my life. I think this weekend really reminded me of that.

And yesterday being back at work, it was fun to go downstairs and eat with a couple of my buddies and celebrate the birthday of another one. Some of us are even playing volleyball on Sunday; I can't wait. :o)

Another thing I can't wait for on Sunday is visiting a church the Lord seems to be leading me toward ... at least to visit and continue seeking HIM about. I am sensing perhaps that He wants me to move on from the church I've been going to here in Texas, despite that I have enjoyed some wonderful times with the people there and have gotten to share the ministry a little bit with them as well.

It's incredible how God cares about every little detail of our lives. He is so faithful and so good to us.

Well, I am heading out now to the midweek service at another church, Calvary Chapel Plano. I love the worship music, and they're going through the Proverbs now. :o)

Sunday night on the way home from my college church, my mom dropped me off to meet up with some longtime good friends, Heather and Jess, for sodas at McAlister's. We had a blast talking and laughing together, like old times. It was really nice.

Yesterday I had the opportunity to catch up with supporters and family in my hometown. My mom, cousin and I went walking through some new neighborhoods they're building closeby. And I enjoyed chatting with my dad, aunt and uncle over Barq's root beer and Breyer's vanilla ice cream.

My flight back to Texas went well. I was pretty tired when I finally got back to my apartment. I actually dozed off for a while and then had to get up to get ready for bed! But I wouldn't trade this weekend for anything ... I had a wonderful time and would do it all again. It's always so nice to catch up with people, especially from that church! :O)

Now I'm fixing to head to a friend's apartment from work, to celebrate another gal's birthday. That will be nice. Then we have prayer meeting, so I probably won't be back at my apartment until well after 9. I think I will sleep very well tonight.

Sam and I ended up staying up until two in the morning talking! But it was so much fun. She and I had a blast catching up and talking about everything from what the Lord is doing in our lives, to New Zealand and what old acquintances are up to these days.

[Sam, if you are reading this, you are an awesome sister in the Lord, and I SO much enjoyed all the fun times we shared this weekend. And I hope you are getting a wonderful night's sleep and feel nice and rested in the morning. (And remember, there's always caffeine, as we both know. :oD) I was going to tell you, feel free to call me anytime you wanna chat or anything! If nothing else, I definitely look forward to seeing ya again when I'm back on the Coast or you're in the big D in Texas! :o) I'll probably send ya an e-card sometime this week, because I saw your email addy in the new church directory I picked up.]

Being back in my college church for worship this morning was so nice. And the guest speaker who shared as part of the missions conference gave a message that really encouraged and challenged me. He talked about how the hardest times can be the times of greatest blessing in our lives and the times when God uses us in unexpected ways! He also talked about finding creative ways to give more to the Lord's work. I was inspired and took that as a personal challenge, something I'd like to work on more in my own life!

I so much enjoyed fellowshipping with people at tonight's supper! I had the opportunity to share during the program, I shared about the Mising tribe in India, and showed a powerpoint. I thank the Lord that for the most part I didn't even feel nervous. :o) I tend to be kind of shy about public speaking, but some of my friends from the church were telling me they thought I always did a good job. That really encouraged me.

This has been such a nice weekend.

Today has been a good day.

Sharing at the ladies' luncheon went well overall. I felt like I rambled a bit in parts (hee hee) but I know God is FAITHFUL and uses even my ramblings. :o) He is SO good.

It was so nice to get to catch up and fellowship with the women there. This afternoon my mom and I went shopping and ... had a $1.99 cutting board to show for it. :oD It was fun, though! More than anything, I enjoyed the mother-daughter time. Getting to spend some time in Mobile together was something the Lord really blessed us with, especially when I'll be here such a short time before I head back to Texas.

I really enjoyed catching up with people from my college church at the missions supper tonight, too! It was so cute; Paul, who along with his wife happens to be one of the many people at this church that I affectionately have often referred to as adoptive parents, came up to me and said in a teasing tone, "I have to tell you this! When we heard you were staying overnight with Sam, I looked at my wife and was like, 'Whoa, who is this Sam person?'" Then of course his wife quickly explained to him.

[Yes, for all you who are writing this, Sam IS a girl. :o) I think that's such a fun nickname! We went to college together and have fond memories of oozeball (volleyball in the mud--no joke!!!) together. Good times!]

Tonight after the dinner, and after I had tested out tomorrow's powerpoint presentation on the church laptop [and set up my table with my worldmap tablecloth and India trip pictures :o)], Sam and I caught up with some more buddies over hot chocolate and various other tasty beverages at a nearby Starbucks. That was fun!

Now I'm at Sam's apartment and we're having so much fun chatting and laughing together. We'll probably go to bed soon though because tomorrow we have to be at a 8:15 breakfast, and I don't think either one of us are morning people. (hee hee)

Night.

I am very tired. But not doing too bad, all things considered.

I have so much sensed the Lord going before me as far as this weekend. Not to say things have always been easy as I make preparations, and there are still some unknowns I need to work on and trust HIM for.

But all in all, I am sensing He is going to do great things ... even if I never see them this side of heaven.

Minus the fact that I spilled COKE on my new brown embroidered flower skirt and almost lost an earring, my flight tonight was pretty uneventful.

[The waitress, I mean flight attendant, brought me CLUB soda. "Sounds strange, I know, but it will bring out the stain" said she. Very thoughful. I want to pray for her salvation!]

Good night. Sleep tight. Don't let the bedbugs bite.

I am very tired. But not doing too bad, all things considered.

I have so much sensed the Lord going before me as far as this weekend. Not to say things have always been easy as I make preparations, and there are still some unknowns I need to work on and trust HIM for.

But all in all, I am sensing He is going to do great things ... even if I never see them this side of heaven.

Minus the fact that I spilled COKE on my new brown embroidered flower skirt and almost lost an earring, my flight tonight was pretty uneventful.

[The waitress, I mean flight attendant, brought me CLUB soda. "Sounds strange, I know, but it will bring out the stain" said she. Very thoughful. I want to pray for her salvation!]

Good night. Sleep tight. Don't let the bedbugs bite.

If you receive reward in heaven for bringing someone a cup of cold water, think of what your reward will be for bringing pizza.

These words spoken to me by a fellow staff member today encouraged and warmed my heart. It was incredibly easy, and no problem at all, for me to go down to Cici's and get the pizza for the staff lunch in the kitchen. And I was so happy for the privilege to do it, for the opportunity to help out in this way.

But sometimes it's just so nice to feel needed and appreciated . . . and that your life is counting for something greater than yourself. :o) That's the incredible thing about everything we do here at Gospel for Asia's U.S. office . . . when done in Jesus' name, it is ALL so signficant for His kingdom and for establishing churches in Asia.

What a privilege.

It's me again.

Today went by fast ... again! It's still beautiful outside. And I had fun again at lunch, with several buddies from the office.

We went outside our staff kitchen to eat our bistro chicken, french bread, red potatoes and homemade carrot cake with delicious cream cheese icing. Suddenly I exuberantly burst out with, "I LOVE carrot cake with homemade cream cheese icing; there's nothing like it!"

A few minutes later, we saw that Jay, one of our fellow staffers, had finished lunch with his wife and was now attempting to fly a huge bright pink kite outside. Well ... we couldn't decide later whether he was flying the kite or the kite was flying him, as it was beginning to look like the kite was going to get caught in the light pole. :oD

But at any rate, I again burst out exuberantly about the beauty of the kite on this nice day. To which one of my lunch companions replied with a big grin, "There's nothing like carrot cake with homemade cream cheese icing and Jay flying a kite ..."

To which we all burst in laughter. :o) It was one of those "had to be there" moments I guess. It was hilarious. Definitely welcome comic relief, especially when I've been so busy this week.

Watching Pride and Prejudice with Tirina was nice. We laughed together at some of the cute parts, which was fun.

I can't believe how quickly today has gone by. It's been a good day overall. I feel like significant progress has been made on my picture powerpoint. It really feels like it's been coming together, and is very near done. YAY!

For lunch I ate pot roast, carrots and creamy mashed potatoes downstairs with a couple of co-workers. I have been so excited about our staff lunches that I was actually able to recite the whole rest of the week's menu to them. :oD We all were laughing -- it was pretty funny.

It's beautiful outside again. But I think instead of walking, I will shower and wash my hair before prayer meeting tonight.

It is so gorgeous outside.

I can't believe how quickly this day passed. Things are coming together for my trip this weekend. I still really need to pray and sit back and trust the Lord. There are still uncertainities, and lots of preparations that need to be made.

By faith it will all go well. :o) I'm getting excited about it! I love this church and getting to catch up with the people there.

Well at 6:30 my friend Tirina and I are going to see Pride and Prejudice (one of our long-time favorites) at the dollar theater. I'm looking forward to it. :o) We'll also pray together on the way there, which will be really nice. I need that. :oD

Now I think I'm going to try to go enjoy some of this gorgeous weather and do some praying myself.

All in all, today was a good day. I like Friday's.

Caitlyn and I had a nice meal at McAlister's Deli. I am still enjoying my COKE from there. :o) I like their cups. May sound silly, I know, but I do.

Last night I practiced my presentation. It went so well. So grateful for that!

This weekend not a whole lot is planned . . .

Tomorrow late afternoon I'm meeting up with others from my church to hear the experiences of a gal who went to Russia on a short-term mission. Then Sunday I'm visiting my friend Cindi's church with her, followed by a lunch with some other gals at the Olive Garden to celebrate her birthday.

I changed my blog template today. I hope I like it. I won't know until after I publish this post, since the changes haven't showed up yet.

I like to be adventurous.

Well, last night I did pray about my presentation. And I felt such a peace in my heart . . . and God gave me a great idea on how to start it out. Praise the Lord!

I am still not totally done with presentation preparations (boy, is that a tongue twister! :oD) but by faith things will continue to go well. I still need to figure some things out with my picture powerpoint presentation (auuggh! techie stuff is not my forte. ;o))). But God is faithful.

And I am feeling increasingly excited about next weekend. I do have to say, though, that I'm glad it's not already this weekend. :o) I don't feel ready yet.

Now I'm going back to the apartment. Just a little while back, at work, I finished my written presentation (by God's strength!). So I am incredibly excited to "try it out" at home and see how long it is. :o) That seriously will be fun. It will be a little harder, though, when it comes to the real thing. In case you haven't figured it out by now, public speaking is NOT my greatest talent.

But GOD is faithful. My prayer and heart's desire is that somehow, his words will shine through. That people will see, not my shaking knees or shy face, but HIS heart somehow.

God is faithful.

P.S. Tomorrow I'm eating lunch at McAlister's Deli with my co-worker Caitlyn. One of my favorite people and one of my favorite restaurants -- good times. :o)

Hello there on this dreary Wednesday. Okay, so maybe not where you live, but here it's been kind of rainy, and definitely foggy, all day. That doesn't mean my mood needs to match, though. :o)

All in all, I'm doing well. Main thing is just that I'm getting ready to share at a missions conference at one of my supporting churches (my beloved college church :o))) and I just really need the Lord to give me HIS words.

I've been working on a powerpoint picture presentation that isn't quite together yet. Yeah ... I think I need to PRAY more and do less for the moment. Prayer changes things. My worrying doesn't. ;o)

Now I need to gather my things, meander on out of the office, and decide whether I'm going to the mid-week service at Calvary Chapel tonight. I think it would be nice to go. : )

Over the weekend I went and saw Pride and Prejudice at the dollar theater with my friend Sara. I like that movie. :o) We also got salads with buy one, get one free coupons at KFC. She liked the salad. I was glad. I even splurged and got a drink and popcorn at the movies. :o)

I also went to the game night with GFA folks on Friday night. We played "around the world" ping-pong, hung out, sang worship songs and classic hymns, just enjoyed everyone's company. Great times.

Then yesterday I worked a GFA booth at a convention, along with some others on staff. I was honestly a little apprehensive going into it, especially as I'd never done this before, but I had so much fun!!! Yesterday I also ate at Schlotsky's with my Sunday school group.

Today a couple of friends (my former roommates) and I hung out for one of our birthdays (not mine). :o) Now I'm tired. But overall, doing pretty well.

I had such a nice visit with my sister and brother-in-law.

They got here around 10:00, and I showed them around the office and introduced them to people. Then we crashed at my apartment for a little bit to chat, eat Skittles and watch just a little of Bride and Prejudice. :o)

After that we went to Chick-fila for lunch. Yum! I had the 8-pack nugget combo.

Soon I will go home, but tonight I am going to a game night for the young people at the office. Tomorrow I'm not up to much, but I do hope to work on what I'll be sharing for my college church's missions conference coming up very soon in March.

Happy Weekend!

This is my 310th post.

Overall, I had a good day. It passed relatively fast. I spent lunch break at my apartment, eating cranberry chicken, drinking a COKE from Quicktrip and picking up a little. Oh, and walking out on my balcony to enjoy the nice weather.

This morning, looking out the window in front of my desk, I saw some sea gulls flying around in circles. There were probably four or five of them, and they were so beautiful.

Tomorrow my sister and brother-in-law will be coming to see me. I'm excited! They'll be here for a couple of hours. It will be the first time they've seen the GFA office where I work, or my apartment. We'll also go grab lunch together. (There I go talking about food again! What can I say? :O)

Well I'm not writing much more because it's nice out and I want to go take a walk in that gorgeous weather. Next time.

It has been such nice weather today.

Today I learned the "E" and "A" chords on the guitar. That was fun! Guitar was one of those instruments I always wanted to learn when I was younger, but my mom discouraged me from because she said it would give me callouses on my hands. :oD

I want to play worship music on the guitar.

Last night I got a bunch done around the apartment. That was a good feeling. Thank You, Lord. I couldn't have done it without YOU enabling me!

I also worked on a web story today -- and that went very well. Well, I think I just might see if I can go take a quick walk in this beautiful weather. :O)

Until next time.

Today was a little chilly. But still a gorgeous day.

We just had carrot cake downstairs to send off a staff family that will be going our office in the UK. They fly out tomorrow! Hard to believe.

I'm fixing to head off for the apartment because at 6:30 I'm meeting with my friend Jaylie. We're going to see Yours, Mine and Ours at the dollar theater, and probably grabbing a bite to eat, too. :o) I'm looking forward to catching up with her and hearing her story of how she got engaged. She's getting married in July, I think.

Tomorrow is Valentine's Day. It's also my half-birthday, meaning I'm "27 1/2". :o) And I could be sad because I don't have a "significant other" in my life. But I think I'd rather be happy because my good friend Carrie and I are going to lunch at Arby's and fellowshipping over some more of those delicious chicken salad sandwiches. (see last Thursday's entry) When she emailed me this morning about lunch, and I picked Tuesday, I wasn't even thinking about the fact that it was Valentine's Day--but that will definitely be a bright spot in my day. :oD

God is good.

It was a chilly but beautiful day.

I had my friend Marrie over for crockpot cranberry chicken. We also ate Breyers black raspberry chocolate, chatted and prayed for each other.

Then we went over to Erik's house for his 40th B-day celebration. I talked to people and also played outside with the kiddos. :O)

Tonight I had a house-warming party to go to for a guy from my church. It was so much fun! Lots of people were there. I especially hit it off with his cousin and her girls. We had shrimp, fajitas and other foods to nibble on.

I had a great time.

I am doing great.

Today during lunch I took a much-needed trip to the bank ... AND ate a delicious chicken salad sandwich at Arby's. :o) The nice thing? It's so HUGE I have half of it left for supper. (YAY!) That is, provided I don't forget it in the office refrigerator. In which case it would be tomorrow's lunch.

You know what? I probably never would have tried the chicken salad sandwich, were it not for my friend Kari. I tend to get in a rut when it comes to food, especially when I know I like a certain thing but am fearful of the unknown.

We were at lunch one time, and she and I ended up each getting a different sandwich and splitting them. So we each had half a chicken salad sandwich and half a turkey and swiss sandwich. And today, I've got to tell you, that chicken salad sandwich just melted in my mouth!

I think I've learned two things.

One: It's nice to have friends. Especially friends who encourage you to try new things.
Two: It pays to be adventurous ... to not be afraid to "risk" tasting the chicken salad sandwich for a change, instead of the turkey and swiss one you've been so accustomed to.

Okay, I'm going to go now before this becomes "Ode to the Chicken Salad Sandwich". Tonight I'm meeting up with some young people and others from the office, to fellowship together and pray for Tibetans. I look forward to that.

I just got back from going to Chili's with Tirina to hang out and have our weekly prayer time. We grab supper together once a month together as well, and this time we decided on Chili's. :o))

Our waiter was cool. You know how some servers are polite but you kind of know it's "put on" -- they're not really personable but just probably trying to get a good tip (or, at least you have a feeling they probably are?)? This guy was pretty personable, in a genuine way, which made the meal a fun experience.

For starters, our first introduction was when my friend was like, "Do you ever feel ...?" and he suddenly appeared from out of nowhere and said, "I feel that way all the time!" It was CLASSIC.
Then later, my friend and I were chatting, sharing prayer requests, and I saw her look behind me. Literally right behind me was his face, resting on a wall, and he was asking us a question. It was pretty funny.

Then when our meal was over, he was like, "Man, I wish I had a picture of my sister-in-law because you look exactly like her. "

Good times.

In general, how am I doing? I'm tired. But overall doing pretty well, I think. Ever feel like you just can't quite get it all together? Whatever "it" means. :oD I've been feeling like that at various times lately. Yet somehow I also feel encouraged.

I also am learning on a practical level that God's ways ... HIS perception of what my life should look like ... are not always what I would look at as the most comforting, emotionally reassuring or easiest. But yet I can trust Him, for His way is always best, regardless of my immediate circumstances or what I in my very limited perspective think. Not necessarily the most fun lesson to learn, but an exciting and very enriching lesson to be able to learn at the same time.

Praise God.

It's 4:00.

And I'm fixing to head out. Today's all-night prayer, which means we all can go home early. :o) Tomorrow I'm joining others on staff for a moving party. Those are fun -- we all get together and move people in, and it hardly takes any time!

The hawk is outside again. And it's gorgeous. Speaking of gorgeous, I hope to take me a walk in some of this gorgeous weather. It appears that we have missed out on winter ... at least thus far.

And I'm not complaining.

Earlier today I was thinking about how wonderful it is that God knows what He's doing. That He is in control and our lives are in His hands. How comforting, how encouraging.

"The LORD will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy, O LORD, endures forever; do not forsake the works of Your hands." --Psalm 138:8 (NKJV)

He is good.

Moments before I wrote this post, there was a big, beautiful hawk on the light-post right outside my office. I love all the birds God has blessed me with both here at the office and at my cozy apartment!

I DID get the cookies made. :o) I'm planning to bring some tomorrow to our staff's all night prayer as well.

My friend Nicole mentioned me again by name today on her blog -- that made me feel good! So, Nicole I'm returning the favor. :o) Too bad we're 12 hours from each other or we could go watch Pride and Prejudice tonight or something. Not to mention go to Chick-fila with my coupons -- you know ME! (hee hee)

Well, anyhow, as it's gorgeous outside and daylight is waning fast, I think I shall leave the office and perhaps take a short walk. Hasta la vista! (I can't remember exactly what that means in Spanish, but I think it refers to some kind of farewell greeting?)

To all my fellow bloggers, have a grand night and don't forget to smell the roses. Okay, I'm getting sillier and sillier. I REALLY must go now. :oD

Farewell.

I had a great night Monday night.

Felt in tune to the Lord and very encouraged. He totally brought together an article I was writing, too.

And I went to Panda Express and the people there told me my meal was free because of my "frequent punch" card. I wasn't going to complain. :o) I did try to tell the guy I thought I needed to buy one more meal before my free one (if I understood correctly) but he didn't seem to understand me.

Got to go now. Before I go to the Calvary Chapel midweek service, I'm hoping to maybe make some cookie dough so I can bring in a gift bag full of cookies for my supervisor. :o) (We are going to surprise him by singing Happy Birthday to him tomorrow, but, shhh ... don't tell him. :oD)

He has been a HUGE blessing in my life. I joke that I can bring him an article and in three seconds, he gives it the "magic touch" and it doesn't even have to be a lot of changes, but it looks so much more complete. I appreciate his warmth and laughter too!

Praise God. I have been thinking lately about the people I am privileged to work with here at the ministry. I think I can really take that for granted. Thinking about my good friend Nicole and the challenges she has at her workplace really makes me appreciate what I have here.

It would be hard to describe how I've been feeling for this last hour.

But I will try.

Earlier today I'd been feeling overwhelmed with articles, deadlines, etc. And some areas of my life that I need to grow in.

But then my friend (and former roommate) Tirina and I met for our weekly prayer time. And wow -- I felt so encouraged by the time we were done.

Now I feel ready to tackle things. Ready to "take on the world". Well, in the Christian sense of the word, anyhow. :o) And just now, sitting at my computer, God gave me the words for the first paragraph to a short article I'll be working on tonight that's due tomorrow.

All I can say is, God is good.

We all went and saw Narnia last night.

It was good.

Aslan, the lion, was such a beautiful picture of Christ. The way he came out of his tent and everybody bowed down. A powerful moment. Truly God is worthy of ALL my worship.

The scene where Aslan was killed was pretty gripping, too. To think that Jesus went through that and worse. Wow.

Then there was the part where Aslan told Peter, who was frantically searching for his brother Edward, "I want to be sure my family is safe, too." Made me think of the heart of the Father, who loves mankind so dearly and "is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9).

That should motivate my life.

It's Friday.

I'm fixing to head out and go home so I can get ready to meet up with some friends from my S.S. group at the Olive Garden. :oD That should be fun.

Also planning on working some on articles for work this weekend. And wanting to pick up and clean around the apartment.

I hope the weather's nice so I can go walking tomorrow. I'd love that!

I feel like now I should say something incredibly deep and profound or something, but nothing is coming to me. What can I say? It's Friday. :o)

It's a beautiful day outside. I love this weather.

Praise God, I seem to have gotten over my "research block" to a large extent. At least the article is started and I have a feel for general direction I'll be going with it. :o) So thankful for that. There is still much to be done, but by faith it will be done before next Tuesday or even before!

P.S. Speaking of "by faith", my crockpot was indeed full of cranberry chicken this past weekend. And there is now some cranberry chicken in my freezer.

I'm back. And it's a Monday.

Overall today's been a good day I think. :oD Perhaps except for the "writer's block" I've been experiencing. Well okay, so I guess it's cheating to call it writer's block since I haven't technically gotten to the writing stage yet ... Is there a such thing as RESEARCH block? :o) I could certainly use prayer that these articles would come together in a timely fashion and most of all that they would be Lord's words, not mine.

It's beautiful outside. I love such weather. I only wish it didn't get dark so quickly these days so I could more easily go walking after work. Oh well.

I still think about the movie I watched last Friday. Incredible. I don't want to forget its impact ... nor the things the Lord wants to do in my life through it. I think for me, the challenge is first knowing those things, and then, having the discipline to do those things. I just know I don't want my life to be "mediocre" ... I'm really sensing the Father calling me to a deeper committment. And I don't want to shrink back. Although even as write these words, it is with a little bit of trepidation as I wonder what will be asked of me.

[BTW, Nicole, it's been so much fun to read your comments on my blog ... I love getting comments! If you look on one of your recent entries on your blog, I think your Saturday one, you'll see one I wrote you, about our "trip" to Wal-mart this weekend. :oD]

Angie and I ran into each other at the soccer field around 3:00 ... where we all from the office were going to play soccer, but only a few of us showed up. So anyohw, Angie and I went to Panda Express together and split a two-entree plate. That was fun.

Yesterday I met up with Windi to attend a health fair at the church. It sure was fun walking around the different booths ... and grabbing all the freebies. :o) Among the most notable freebies, my favorite by far, was a bright pink water bottle from Baylor Medical Center.

Definitely a keeper.

Girls nite out.

Mall, Chick-fila, Shopping, Chocolate, and a movie.

What more could a girl want? The movie was incredible, actually, AND showed me that there's SO much more I want. Not stuff ... although, yes, my flesh too often craves stuff. No, not stuff. Unless you're talking about hte kind of stuff that money can't buy. Stuff of the Kingdom.

But I'll get to that in a minute.

8:30 or thereabouts. Still a good hour and a half before the movie starts. Tami, Robin, Wendy and I at Pacific Sun because I want to look for clearance cloth belts that I use as headbands. They're hanging out and chatting. I'm in line to buy my $2.99 headband ... it feels like the people ahead of me are taking a century, but maybe just because I feel people are waiting for me.

A lady with grayish hair put up in a "showercap-like" contraption is in line with what I assume are her children and grandchildren. She's just kind of standing there ... but a little close for my comfort level. Especially considering a non-too-pleasant odor is coming from her direction. I mean, forbid, what if one of the guys standing behind me thinks it's me? Involuntarily, I step back. Then suddenly I hear the Lord's voice in my heart, "She is one of the people I love, who needs to be reached with the message of my love. She is one of the people the native missionaries in Asia (www.gfa.org) are sacrificing of themselves daily just so they can reach with my love."

Looking back on that incident, it's incredible to think of how it also ties in with the movie we watched. Amazing to me lately how God has totally been driving themes into my life repeatedly. But in such a faithful yet very patient and kind way. He's AMAZING.

Anyhow, about the movie ... If I let it, it quite possibly has the opportunity to radically change my life from this point forward. It was ... out of this world. The Lord spoke to me throughout it. The deceitfulness and utter depravity of the human heart. The blindness of so many people who have never heard of my Jesus as I have! The awesomeness of God pouring out His abundant love, compassion and forgiveness through His people, when humanly speaking it would seem impossible. The fervent dedication of one man to reach a remote tribe with the Gospel, even if it meant losing his life. The passion and drive God gave him for the Kingdom's work. "Betty, we don't have two years. We have ONE CHANCE to reach these people" That grabbed me. Made me want to be much more dedicated and focused on the task He has given me.

Then my devotional this morning, from Streams in the Dessert, quoted Acts 20:24 about Paul not counting his life dear to himself for the sake of the Kingdom.

Incredible. May I be given the grace to actively apply these things in my life. I want my life to forever be different because of this night. Amen.

Last night was our bi-monthly ladies' meeting at the ministry. It was incredible ... I felt like the message was spoken directly to me. It was SO good.

But oh, how could I even begin to share all of it? In a nutshell, in my oh-so-eloquent summary, what I got out of it was, "Just do it. Just surrender. Those areas in your life that you need to grow in and change? Just do it. Not on your own strength, of course, but in HIS strength." She talked about how we always say "someday" but that "someday" will never come if we aren't proactive in letting Him change our hearts and lives.

The bottom line of it for me was her statement that change in your life is just a prayer away if you're willing. I was thinking, Yeah, Rachel, you knucklehead, you. Change can take one prayer or a long time, depending on how surrendered your heart is to His purposes in your life. :o) Definitely very powerful. And something I so much want to be diligent to apply. I feel this week that I've been learning SO much. Now I just need to be faithful to APPLY it. As NIKE would tell us, "Just DO IT."

I thank the Lord for all He's been teaching me. I feel so encouraged. But now my hair very much needs a washing so I'm going to head out so it can have time to dry before I meet up with some church friends to go see End of the Spear. (I saw the preview online today and it looks very powerful.)

Looking forward to tonight.

An Ode to the Little Things in Life that Are Really the Big Things

Windchimes with little pewter butterflies.
Last night around 10:30 P.M. after eagerly gulping down an oven-roasted chicken salad--my supper--I went to Walgreens to check out the "free with mail-in rebate" scene and, on a whim, decided to buy some windchimes. [You might wonder, and rightly so, what I was doing eating supper at this unearthly hour! Well, you will find out later if you keep reading. :oD] They are cute and at only $1.99, much cheaper than ones I'd seen in the stores before.

When I got home with them and hung them up on my upstairs balcony, I got to wondering if they were the same as my next door neighbors. [They're not, it turns out.] Not that it would matter.

I like my next door neighbor.

And I like my blue metallic and silver pewter windchimes.

A package of M and M's.
I promised you I would tell you why I was eating at 10:30 last night. Okay, here goes. I left the office at 6 p.m., headed over to church for the mid-week service. I was intending to stop and eat something at a fast-food type restaurant along the way, and musing in my head (and with my very hungry stomach!) where might be good to go. Long story made short, all my plans came to naught, as I had forgotten my money AND credit cards at home that morning. So anyhow, when I got to the church I casually remarked to a nice acquaintance in the restroom that I was starving and hadn't eaten. Much to my surprise (and delight!) she promptly produced a package of M and M's that had been at the bottom of her purse for a while. "These are a God-send," I told her. :o)

A crockpot filled with scrumptuous cranberry chicken.
Okay, so mine isn't YET, but (by faith) tomorrow or this weekend it WILL be. :o) Found this great recipe in "101 Things to do with a Slowcooker." But alas, the recipe didn't indicate whether the chicken should be raw or cooked to go into the crockpot. My assumption would have been raw, since it would have ample time and more to get done, but I noticed other recipes that called for cooked chicken. So I asked my mom about it. She agrees I should try it with the raw chicken. I love having a mom I can call at anytime about the little delicacies of life, like chicken and crockpots. :o) The amazing thing is that she just about always has the answer, too.

It's the little things that mean so much.

It's all about you, Jesus.
And not about me, as if You should do things my way.
All this is for You, for Your glory and Your fame.
You Alone are God, and I love You.

Sitting in my chair in our weekly staff prayer meeting last night, I felt like I was singing this as a love song to God. It was an incredible moment when everything else just seemed to fade away, and I was reminded that it's all about Him. Not me. Not my dreams, my desires, my ambitions. Not about the "rights" I may think I have.

Funny how we don't have to be reminded to think about ourselves and our best interests. No, it just comes naturally. We don't have to be reminded to think about the temporal. Instead, we must ever be reminded to think about the eternal, to set our heights on things above.

Today was a good day. Now I'm going to grab a bit to eat, probably at McAlister's (yum!) and then head to the mid-week service at church. YAY! :o) God is good.

Wow. Has it really been over two weeks since I've posted in here? Oops. I WANT to post more ... I will try to, I promise? :O)

Despite that I've been kind of swamped with working on writing stuff for our upcoming Annual Report, this week has been really good so far. SO glad for that. I was just thinking about how this Monday has been so much nicer than last Monday was ...

It was a “normal” Monday afternoon at my sunny spot in the GFA office when I got the call from my mom. Early in the conversation, I knew something had happened. That day, my dad had suffered a heart attack. Even as we talked, he was being rushed by ambulance to the hospital to have stints put in. [If the stints worked, he wouldn’t need surgery.] In that instant, I felt numb. I was in shock, disbelief. I was very close to my daddy and couldn’t imagine anything happening to him. I felt, in a sense, that my whole world had shattered. And yet somehow through it all I felt an emotional calm. I thank the Lord for that.

I later found out it was a massive heart attack, with one artery completely blocked. Yet incredibly, the doctor reported that my dad was doing well for having just had a heart attack, and by just a little later in the week he was feeling “back to normal”. He was in ICU for a day before being moved to the cardio ward for the rest of the week. The doctor says he will have permanent heart damage but we’re hoping and praying this won’t be the case.

WOW --I truly thank God for His wonderful protection! My daddy is at home and seems to be doing well. He's taking several medications now. Please pray with us for his continued recovery and a heart that’s “good as new”. And pray also for me, that regardless of any trial I go through, I would be like the tree described in Jeremiah 17:7-8,“planted by the waters, which spreads out its roots by the river, and will not fear when heat comes; but its leaf will be green, and it will not be anxious in the year of drought, nor will cease from yielding fruit” (NKJV).

Well I have to say, so far 2006 has been a very nice year. :o)

Today I went to church and then came straight home and ate a little lunch and hung out around the apartment for a bit. Then I went and chatted and fellowshipped with some women from the ministry.

After that I went walking.

Last night was the New Year's Eve party with my S.S. class. I had a great time!! My only real complaint was how fast the evening went by! Oh well. :o) It was a memorable experience ringing in the new year with friends there. Lots of laughter and joking around for sure.

Laughter is good for the spirit.

Today was my first day back in the office.

It's good to be back. Very good.

I think when you're away from the town you live in for a little while and then come back, you come to experience a new appreciation and thankfulness for it. :o)

I'm happy to be back.

Today was kind of a nice day. I was off from work still, since I arrived back a day earlier than I'd originally thought I would.

It was nice outside.

I had to go to McKinney to get a calendar but the trip was well worth it because of the pretty trees and little hills I saw (almost didn't look like Texas :o)) and the yummy free meal I enjoyed at McAlisters. Free because I had used up my nine entrees on my supper club card. They even let me have my drink free. Yippee!! :oD

Yesterday I drove in, but from Jackson so it wasn't nearly as long a drive. (YAY!) I stopped at the Terrell outlet mall and found some great bargains -- a really cute pair of khaki capri pants at the Van Heusen outlet on clearance for $10!! They even fit me perfectly, which is an amazing feat generally for pants or jeans. :o) Needless to say, I was pleased.

I also at at Schlotsky's, one of my all-time favorite restaurants.

I'm going through something kind of hard at the moment. Yet by faith (not my emotions yet!) I'm thankful if it will be used to drive me closer to Jesus. And I believe it will -- or can be! Oh how I need to stay close to Him. He is truly a wonderful God. There is none like Him. He will never leave us nor forsake us. How wonderful!

Tonight my mom and I ate supper with a big group of relief workers at the church. I have so much been touched by these dear brothers and sisters in Christ and their hearts to come from all over the U.S. and labor long hours on behalf of people in need. It is my prayer that just as we have seen many come to Christ through our tsunami outreach in Asia (www.gfa.org/tsunami), they too will see an incredible harvest of souls.

God is good. Even in the pain ... even in the midst of the storm.

Yesterday I made the 600-mile drive to my hometown. Yikes! I'd forgotten how long it was. It felt especially long for some reason.

But today was incredible. Worshipped at my beloved college church. Caught up with friends and supporters there ... and made new ones!

Ate lunch at Applebee's with this really fun couple who supports me. Enjoyed more fellowship at the church's Christmas open house. And the one-hour drive back to my hometown tonight felt small compared to 11 hours yesterday.

This week has been going by so FAST.

It's Thursday. WOW.

Things are going quite well overall!

I still have much to get done before my trip home in a week or so ... both at the office and at home ... and things to tend to with my car. But things have gotten done as well. I feel optimistic that everything will come together. :oD

Today I got a coupon in the mail for Arby's, buy fries and a drink and get a free Market Fresh sandwich (which I love but are kind of expensive!). I used it for lunch and was quite happy. :oD

It's the little things in life that matter so much sometimes.