Life Encapsulated

time for something new

2010-04-14T09:14:00.000-05:00

I made the change from Blogger to Wordpress.

Just because I wanted something new.

Please visit my new site here.

Prairie Thunder Baking Company

2010-04-08T20:23:00.003-05:00

Here's another good place to try, folks.

Prairie Thunder is a little cafe' that Lauren and I stumbled across last year.

It made us happy. Truly.

It makes us happy every time we go there:

They serve excellent sandwiches, salads, quiches and desserts.

My favorites are the Chicken Panini Sandwich and the Greek Salad.

Oh, and their delicious cream cheese and fruit pasteries.

Although I can't say those are my favorite because everything in their bakery section is my favorite...practically.

Ahem.

Their selection of baked goods does vary from day to day because they make everything fresh on-site.

But you'll be okay with that. I promise.

As I alluded to before, everything they make is always very good no matter what.

They are the Prairie Thunder Baking Company after all. Baking is what they do best.

Give 'em a try!

Coffee: Anytime and Anywhere

2010-04-05T21:40:00.005-05:00

I love coffee. I really do.

When it comes to coffee, I can relate to Dr. Suess' book Green Eggs and Ham:

I can drink coffee in

a house,

a car,

a tree,

a train,

a box,

or a boat...

And be happy.

Lydia enjoys coffee, too.

She's just not as fanatical about the beverage as I am (which is code for: she has more self-discipline).

Ahem.

We both enjoy coffee in our own way.

On Sunday mornings before church,

and random Saturday evenings when we decide to go out;

in our travel mugs on weekday mornings,

and at Mom & Dad's with dessert.

Wherever and whenever, I firmly believe that coffee gives me extra strength to traverse the roads of life.

I'm not sure how, but I know it does.

If anything, it gives me one more reason to get up in the morning. And that's good enough for me.

a spring evening downtown

2010-04-04T21:50:00.002-05:00

The weather was so beautiful Wednesday evening. And I had the week off from my evening job.

So, I decided to take some time away from studying, too. It was so nice.

It's also nice to have a friend with whom I can be spontaneous...

And drink Italian Cream Sodas...

And take pictures...

Especially if front of a moving train.

The train was loud when it blew through the station. It wasn't stopping for anyone. It's been years since I was that close to a train going that fast.

It was exhilarating.

And really loud.

Thanks again, Lauren, for being spontaneous and drinking Italian Cream Sodas and taking pictures with me...especially in front of a moving train.

Il Dolce

2010-04-02T08:52:00.002-05:00

On this rainy morning, I thought this post might bring thoughts of sunny days your way.

Il Dolce brings me thoughts of sunny Italian days. Beautiful, sunny Italian days.

One day specificially comes to mind. We were in Ravello on the Almalfi Coast:

(photo credit)

We had gelato on that beautiful, sunny Italian day. It was delicious.

Although it does not have an amazing view of the Amalfi Coast, Il Dolce's gelato is just as delicious.

And a little less expensive than a trip to Italy.

I love the fruity flavors.

Lemon, Strawberry Rosemary and an amazing cream & cherry concoction (Variegato Amarena) that I can't pronounce, despite having lived two years in the Land of Gelato.

Jessica tried the Mocha, Cappuccino and the Chocolate Raspberry. (Correct me if I'm wrong, Jessica! I don't want to mislead anyone and leave them dissapointed! Haha.)

She seemed happy with her selection...at least, she ate every last bite just like I did :)

So, if you need a beautiful, sunny Italian day, give Il Dolce a try!

They have a couple of locations.

I promise you will want to go back.

spring evening

2010-03-31T22:36:00.001-05:00

sweet dreams

2010-03-30T10:08:00.000-05:00

(Photo from decor8)

I want these pillowcases from RoseHip's Etsy Shop.

I love the bright colors and the vintage feel.

I am convinced they would make my dreams much sweeter.

"Dramatic B&W"

2010-03-29T21:13:00.002-05:00

When I look at this picture I remember.

I remember walking on the beach with Mom.

I remember the salt breeze and being slightly sunburned from our day.

I remember the coolness of the waves and the feeling of the wet sand between my toes.

I remember watching the sun set and the moon rise.

I remember talking about nothing and everything at the same time.

Go on over to I Heart Faces to see more "Dramatic B&W" entries.

Dear Lydia...

2010-03-27T09:57:00.002-05:00

I just want to say that I'm glad you're my sister. I'm not sure what made me think of it. Today isn't special for any reason.

But I was sitting with my back against one of the swivel chairs in the living room, soaking in the Saturday morning sun while I drank my coffee...and I realized again how grateful I am to have you as a sister.

I'm grateful that we have been able to rent this apartment together and spend a little more of our lives getting to know each other.

I'm grateful we can laugh together and make memories together.

I'm grateful we can have fun just hanging out.

I'm grateful for all of our adventures.

Thanks for being you, Lydia, the total opposite of me...and that's what makes it so cool.

Thanks for putting up with me and sharing this season of your life with me.

Thanks for being my sister.

You're beautiful inside and out.

I love you, Sis!

~Hannah

Pei Wei

2010-03-25T20:24:00.000-05:00

I know most people probably already have, but if you haven't please try Pei Wei. You will love it.

If you have and you already love it and you want to know the absolute best location that has especially good management = good service and good food, try the one in Norman.

I have always loved the food at Pei Wei.

Especially their Orange Peel Chicken. Their new Carmel Chicken is pretty amazing, too.

I have always loved the atmosphere, too.

It's fun to sit up at the bar and watch everything. Truly. It's pretty amazing.

They have these huge woks and trays of fresh ingredients for all of the dishes. And there are really big flames.

They know how to do it right.

Still waiting on that unexpected event...hmmm...

Try Pei Wei today. Try the Pei Wei in Norman

I walked into my apartment after a long day...

2010-03-23T20:51:00.005-05:00

...closed the front door behind me and let out a sigh of relief.

I was home.

I had left the world outside and I was home.

I kicked my heels off, felt the soft carpet between my toes, set my purse down and I smiled. A warm feeling of deep contentment wrapped itself around me.

I never thought I would be here. I wanted it, planned for it and hoped for it. But I don't think I really thought it would ever happen. To have a place of my own.

I loved my growing up years. I love my parents so much. I won't pretend that the thought of moving out didn't scare me at the same time it excited me. And yet I knew that I was ready.

I am so thankful I am here because I know it's where I need to be. And I'm having fun. And I'm content.

I love walking into my apartment at the end of a long day, closing the front door behind me and letting out a sigh of relief.

I love kicking off my heels, feeling the soft carpet between my toes, setting my purse down and smiling. I love the warm feeling of deep contentment that wraps itself around me.

Because this is my place and I'm having fun and I'm blessed every day that the Lord saw fit to bring me here.

Speaking of home, I thought these would be perfect on the kitchen counter:

Again I resisted.

But then I went back to Target the other day (same day I found my lovely earrings on the sale rack) and saw one yellow set still left.

I was sure it was a sign.

So I bought them. And I love them. They are bright and sunny and kind of retro.

Anyone need me to bake cookies for something?

Angle Inspiration

2010-03-22T22:35:00.002-05:00

It really is about the angle.

When you are trying to create art and not just take another snapshot.

It matters how you compose the picture.

I realize this more and more.

The angle affects the emotional impact, the timelessness and the beauty of the subject in ways that are hard to describe.

You just have to see for yourself. Check out I Heart Faces for lots of "angle" inspiration.

What then shall be our response?

2010-03-22T13:59:00.002-05:00

"But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security." - The Declaration of Independence

-----

Declaration of Dependency

By Scott Strzelczyk

When, in the course of political events, it becomes necessary for the government to dissolve the political bands which constrain them to the people, and to assume all the powers of the earth, to eliminate and dissolve the laws of nature and of nature's God to which the people believe they are entitled, a complete disregard to the opinions of mankind requires the government to declare their causes superior to all others and impel the people into absolute despotism.

We hold these truths to be morally relative; that all men are not created equal, but we can make them equal by instituting laws to ensure social, racial, and economic equality. We can terminate pregnancies that are inferior to our specifications (defect, gender, race, etc.) and euthanize the elderly to ensure society represents our utopian vision of mankind. That to secure these rights and create a utopian society, government usurps all power from man and the consent of the governed is inconsequential. Whenever our form of government becomes destructive to man's livelihood the people have no right to alter or abolish it, and in fact if they attempt to do so will be held criminally liable for questioning their leaders. Prudence, indeed, will dictate out government, recently established, should not be changed for any reason unless we deem it necessary; and accordingly all experience hath shown that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, therefore we will continue to ensure mankind suffers at our discretion. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is our right to continue on this course until we are fully satisfied with the outcome; and any attempt to throw off such government and to provide new guards for their future security is not only feeble, but a treasonous act against the government and offenders will be immediately terminated. Such has been the patient sufferance of the leaders of the United States; and such is now the necessity which throws off all constraints that bind our government and we now alter our system of government according to our will and our desire. To prove this, let facts be submitted to a candid world.

The people have refused to compel with our laws; therefore we must enforce our laws for the public good.

We have called together legislative bodies to represent the people; however we know longer have a need for representation. Elections are now forbidden.

The people consume natural resources and destroy the environment, therefore we will no longer allow for population of the states, rather the country will be bound by the sustainable development program known as United Nations Agenda 21. People will be redeployed to population centers.

The concept of justice is abolished under this declaration. We are no longer a Constitutional Republic, rather we are an oligarchy and will administer justice as we see fit.

We will erect a multitude of new offices, and send hither swarms of officers to harass you, and eat out your substance.

We will establish a national security force and, at all times, deploy them amongst the people.

If the former does not provide proper compliance and servitude we will use the military against the people of this country.

We will confiscate all firearms and ammunition. Any resistance results in an automatic life time sentence in a re-education and work camp.

We will decide what work each person must do to support the government. Property rights are abolished. The government decides for each person what they may possess.

Taxes are abolished as we own everything and decide what you can and cannot possess. Everything else belongs to the government.

In case we weren't clear, everything belongs to the government and government decides everything.

-----

What then shall be our response?

In the words of my favorite American Patriot, Patrick Henry:

"I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death."

-----

You can go here to read the Declaration of Independence as it was signed in 1776.

2010-03-19T17:49:00.002-05:00

From the first time I saw them, I just knew.

They were meant to be mine.

But I resisted.

Today they were on the sale rack.

And I was pretty sure that was a sign.

I didn't resist this time.

Now they're mine.

Just like I always knew they should be.

Ah, love is a beautiful thing.

Which Wich

2010-03-18T18:55:00.001-05:00

This place has amazing sandwiches. The hardest thing is deciding which one you want.

Which is why it is called Which Wich...because you have to decide which 'wich you really, really want.

Once you make a decision, ordering is the easy part.

You just grab the brown paper bag that has your meat of choice stamped on it:

Choose your bread, choose your cheese and choose your condiments.

Hand your bag to the cashier, pay and Voila!

Your 'wich. Made to order. Amazing every time.

The Cajun is my favorite.

Oh, and don't forget a drink:

This place will make you happy.

Trust me.

It does.

See...

So, next time you want to try a twist on the traditional sandwich shop, try Which Wich.

They're all over the place.

They're really, really good.

And did I mention they'll make you happy?

The Perfect Picture

2010-03-17T21:45:00.006-05:00

Sometimes you take a picture that makes you smile.

A picture that makes you smile for all of the reasons that you wouldn't expect.

It doesn't make you smile because it's the perfect picture and you realize that you really are Ansel Adams after all.

It doesn't make you smile because it was the picture you intended to take and you think it would look nice in the frame you just bought on sale at Hobby Lobby.

It doesn't even make you smile because you think it is a picture that would make someone else smile...or that it would even be a picture someone else would actually get.

But as you are culling through your pictures, sorting out the ones to keep and the ones to delete...you see it, you stop...and you smile.

It's just that kind of picture. The kind of picture that makes you feel and that makes you remember.

The kind of picture that makes you smile for all of the reasons you wouldn't expect.

Ahem.

This is one of those to me:

Ruby Sinatra.

For those who can't decipher the above picture (or may even be a little freaked out), that's okay. You're probably not alone.

But this picture makes me feel. It makes me remember. It makes me smile.

So, I think I'll keep it.

P.S. By way of translation, here is Ruby "in focus":

Becky's Kitchen Magic

2010-03-16T20:55:00.010-05:00

How do these...

become these...

Magic.

Becky's Kitchen Magic.

Perfection.

******

How do these...

become these...

Magic.

Becky's Kitchen Magic.

******

How do these...

become these...

Magic.

Becky's Kitchen Magic.

Perfection. Every time.

******

In case you want to give the good 'ol Kitchen Magic a try (although you'll never be as good as Mom), here are the recipes:

Perfect French Fries.

Sliders.

Chocolate Pound Cake.

******

Mom, you've got the Kitchen Magic. No doubt.

I love you!

drinking coffee

2010-03-15T22:09:00.003-05:00

Okay. These just crack me up.

Lydia and I were sitting at Starbucks Saturday evening and she said she wanted to get some pictures of me drinking my coffee.

She shouldn't have told me she wanted to get some picutres of me drinking my coffee. Because then I couldn't act naturally.

She took the first one and then said, "Don't look so worried." For some reason that just ruined any sense of concentration I had...or maybe that was the problem...I was concentrating too hard and that just came off as looking worried.

I don't know, but this series of pictures makes me laugh.

This is me...drinking coffee...very unnaturally...photo credits go to Lydia.

Midtown Deli

2010-03-13T20:48:00.003-06:00

Midtown Deli = the perfect place for lunch.

They have sandwiches, soup & salad, pizzas...

BUT my very, very favorite is The Okie. Oh, man, is it good.

Thinly sliced roast beef, cheddar cheese, grilled onions, bacon and BBQ sauce on what ever bread you desire, grilled to perfection.

It is so good.

And the raspberry iced tea is the best anywhere. In fact, this is the only place I order iced tea.

There is so much to love about this place:

The food.

The service.

The patio.

The atmosphere.

The company...

Midtown Deli = a beautiful day.

2010-03-12T21:53:00.002-06:00

I have an amalgam of thoughts stirring around in my mind today.

I guess Fridays are like that...an amalgam of things...a "catch-up" day (well, on everything but sleep).

I couldn't decide on one specific topic. I couldn't decide on a title. So I decided just to post as the thoughts came, putting into words some of the things stirring in my mind today, just bits and pieces of this amalgam of diverse feelings and ideas...

Thoughts on Who I Am in Christ:

"There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus." Romans 8:1

"The key to living a victorious Christian life is to discover who you are in Christ.

God doesn't work from the outside in. He works from the inside out. God doesn't modify our behavior in order to change us. He changes us in order to modify our behavior.

You're never going to purify the water by painting the pump. That's legalism, and that's a dead end to discovering who you are in Christ." ~Adrian Rogers, March 9th (emphasis mine)

You can sign up for daily encouraging emails here.

Thoughts on Starbuck's VIA Coffee:

Simply put: it is amazing. It really, really is.

100% natural roasted instant, microground coffee. In individual packets. So you can take them anywhere.

My method:

- take out the lovely coffee mug that Lydia gave me

- pour in a little bit of sugar-free vanilla syrup & a little bit of cream
- open a packet of VIA and pour the amazing, microground substance on top
- add hot water, stir and enjoy!

P.S. I eye the amount of water. I just know what color the coffee is when it's perfect. Don't worry. That just takes practice. If you start now, you'll be as good as me someday.

I love the VIA Italian Roast Extra Bold. More info here.

Thoughts on Friday:

Remember when I said: we.shall.see. Uh huh. Well, today was just as interesting as Thursday.

What would you do if you were in the "Health and Beauty" section at Wal-Mart, looking for hand lotion, minding your own business and a woman - normal looking enough - starts acting abnormally? For instance, if she runs up the isle, and huddles on the end, peering through a crack in the shelving as if she is looking to see if someone is following her - what would you do? What would you do when she pushes herself even closer to the shelving, burying her face in the product on said shelves? Do you just act like you don't notice? Do you tell her the product on the shelves is Women Depends? Do you ask her if someone is after her and she needs help?

What would you do?

I didn't know what to do, so I just pretended to act normally and kept looking for hand lotion, attempting to block the view of a man that looked like he was looking for someone. A lot of things were going through my mind. Before I could do anything, the woman took off back up the isle. Next I saw her hiding at the end of a cookware isle. This time she pulled her cell phone out, dialed and began talking quietly, still looking around her. After a moment, she stepped out into the main isle and walked away. I didn't see her again.

Tell me, please, what would you do? Half of me felt concern, the other half wanted to laugh out loud. I really didn't know what to do. I still don't know what to do.

Thoughts on Spring Weather:

I love it.

It makes me want to go through my closet.
It makes me want to dust and wash the curtains.
It makes me want to go on a long, long walk.
It makes me want to breathe in very deeply.
It makes me want to drive with my sunroof open.
It makes me want to give myself a pedicure.
It makes me want to travel to far away places.
It makes me want to open all the doors and windows.

Thoughts on A Friend's Awesome Sewing Blog:

I don't really sew. I wish I did...or could. It's that bad. I can't sew. At all.

But I have a friend who can. And she has a mom who can. Their blog is called SewChic.

Check it out. They sew amazing things. Things I can only dream of sewing.

They are also being featured along with several other sewing blogs on Seamingly.com.

Sew Chic

Place your vote for Sew Chic
and find more Sewing Patterns at
Seamingly.com.

Check it out and vote for SewChic!

Thoughts on Bungalow (via Decor8) and Home Decorating:

Wow. I think I'm in love. I may not sew, but I do enjoy decorating. More and more.

Bungalow is an amazing home decorating (and beyond) company based in Denmark.

I am totally in love with their bedding, scarves, notebooks, starlamps and their hand purses.

I love the colors! Beautiful! Check out their list of internet shops here.

Thoughts on The Weekend:

It's here. And it's going to be great.

Umbrellas, Sunshine, Mochas and Door Knobs

2010-03-11T22:09:00.006-06:00

I haven't particularly been looking forward to this week. It was scheduled to be a week full of school and work - not really anything to be excited about. So far it has gone much better than I thought it would, with more to be excited about than I thought.

Monday: It was rainy. Really rainy. And that was okay. I had an umbrella. I would have really liked to have one of these umbrellas, but I guess you can't have everything. My bosses took me to lunch...and Starbucks...and that made my day.

Tuesday: It was sunny. Really sunny. And that was more than okay. A friend and I went out for lunch (another review I will be blogging soon) and sat outside. It was a lot of fun. Sunshine is wonderful.

Wednesday: It was busy. Really busy. And that was okay, too. I barely had time for lunch that day and I worked on a paper until after 10p.m. It was still a good day. I tried the new Dark Cherry Mocha at Starbucks. It was delicious.

Thursday (today): It was interesting. Very interesting. And that was...kind of freaky at times. You would understand if you had been there when my day started. I went to open the front door to leave for work (balancing my fried egg & toast on top of my coffee mug in my free hand) and the door knob came off in my hand, causing my egg & toast to flip off the top of my coffee cup and roll across the carpet. I stood there with the doorknob in my hand and I knew what kind of day it would be. And it was - interesting.

Friday: we.shall.see.

On Blogging

2010-03-10T20:31:00.000-06:00

"Blogging is therefore to writing what extreme sports are to athletics: more free-form, more accident-prone, less formal, more alive. It is, in many ways, writing out loud."

"...the key to understanding a blog is to realize that it’s a broadcast, not a publication. If it stops moving, it dies. If it stops paddling, it sinks."

"And this is what blogging, in turn, does to reporting. The traditional method involves a journalist searching for key sources, nurturing them, and sequestering them from his rivals. A blogger splashes gamely into a subject and dares the sources to come to him."

"Indeed, the most pleasant surprise of blogging has been the number of people working in law or government or academia or rearing kids at home who have real literary talent and real knowledge, and who had no outlet—until now."

~Andrew Sullivan, "Why I Blog", The Atlantic Magazine

You can read more here.

La Baguette: French Bakery Cafe & Bistro

2010-03-09T20:22:00.004-06:00

This place is a gem. If you are looking for a classic French cafe' experience, La Baguette is it.

It looks pretty ordinary from the outside...

...but don't be fooled. Their menu is anything but ordinary.

They have cases full of every pastry and dessert you can imagine. Heaven.

They offer a full menu (including a Bistro menu at one of their locations) and - on Saturdays and Sundays - an amazing brunch menu.

Try a slice of their Artichoke and Cherry Pepper Quiche or one of their Ham and Cheese Croissant Rolls.

Try the Cafe' Caramel or the Almond Joy Latte.

Try anything you like.

You'll want to go back!

For locations, visit La Baguette's website.

- jump -

2010-03-08T20:07:00.001-06:00

It's the "Jump For Joy" photo challenge over at I Heart Faces this week.

This was one of the last shots I took during this senior photo session. I really didn't think much of the shot because we were so tired at that point (2-3 hours of shooting will do that to you!), but it turned out to be one of my favorites from the day.

I love the bonus of the sunset in the reflection.

Passionberri

2010-03-07T21:06:00.002-06:00

I have been dying to post this review.

This place is as unique and refreshingly, delicious as they come. Perfect for a hot, summer day and still just as tempting in the dead of winter, this frozen yogurt puts a smile on my face.

Once you walk in the door, this is how it goes down:

- you revel in the soothing colors and clean lines, anticipating what is to come

- you grab a plastic dish and begin to survey all your choices of delicious and good-for-you frozen yogurt: peach, mango, passionberri, citrus, coconut, green tea, lemon, pineapple, grapefruit, pomegranate...

- you pull the lever of your choice and fill your dish at just 35 cents per ounce (I mix multiple flavors because I'm terrible at making decisions)

- you walk to the topping bar and pile on practically anything from granola to gummi bears and strawberries to kiwi (I absolutely love their fresh fruit)

- you place your dish on the scale and pay

- you grab a spoon, find a seat and enjoy

For locations, visit Passionberri online.

my beach cottage

2010-03-06T22:31:00.003-06:00

I have an undying love for the tropics.

This is strange to me only because I used to have an undying love for Siberia. Really. I wanted to live there...for the rest of my life. I used to love the cold and didn't mind how many layers I had to wear to keep warm. Freezing temperatures invigorated me. I actually remember saying that once.

My how things change. Now the thought of living in Siberia makes me laugh.

Now I dream of a beach cottage where I can hear the waves breaking on the sand while I fall asleep.

I dream of warmth all year around...very few layers...and flip flops.

I dream of the salty breeze as it blows in from a few places that I have visited and many I only hope I can visit some day.

I dream so much about the beach that I have tried to create a mini beach cottage...countless miles from the ocean...totally landlocked...right here in my bedroom.

I can't surround myself with enough pictures of the beach. I layer them and stack them.

I add a few shells here and there.

These things make me feel like I can almost hear the waves breaking on the sand and smell the salt breezes from far away places.

These things make me feel at home.

"Sealed With You" Jewelry Giveaway

2010-03-05T22:14:00.002-06:00

One of my very favorite photographers is hosting a fabulous giveaway on her blog.

I want a turquoise pendant with my initial...really badly.

Head on over to Rebekah Westover Photography to join the fun!

Someplace Else: Deli & Bakery

2010-03-05T11:42:00.002-06:00

I get one thing when I go there. Well, not one thing...I get several things...but I get the same things - over and over and over again.

And there's a reason. They're the best. Anywhere.

I get the #14 w/bacon: avacado, tomato, cream cheese and bacon on thick, delicious, home-made rye bread.

I get a lemon bar and a chocolate sugar cookie (sometimes I alternate with the s'more bar). Mostly I get the lemon bar and chocolate sugar cookie.

I get a Diet Coke. It's the only place I drink Diet Coke. It just tastes good.

(photo credit)

This deli and bakery is the perfect reason to go Somplace Else. Truly. Try it.

Here's what people have to say:

"What can you say but great food at unbelievable prices" - urbanspoon.com
"Had a nice corned beef on rye (see my pic) and very much enjoyed it" - urbanspoon.com
"The food cannot be compared and the freshness is [out] of this world" - kudzu.com
"Prices are great for the quality" - urbanspoon.com
"The BLT & A is fantastic!" - tripadvisor.com

2010-03-04T19:53:00.003-06:00

I don't title my posts as often as I'd like...mostly because I can't think of a good title as often as I'd like. Between school and work, most of my creative juices are sucked dry.

The fact that I have not posted in the last two weeks is evidence of this as well. After school and work are said and done...well, there's very little left to say or do. At that point, I'm not sure who I am or what I want, what is good writing or what is bad, what makes sense and what doesn't.

Occasionally I do manage to channel my creative juices into somewhat of a coherant form. As proof, a piece that I wrote last fall for one of my classes was published this week in USA Today's online National Gallery of Writing. That was pretty exciting. I was shocked actually.

----
I am determined to build up my picture pool again. It's hard for me to post without pictures, but I haven't had a whole lot of extra time for pictures. I have set my camera out so that I will remember to use it. There isn't much that is picturesque between our apartment buildings...and the lighting is a little scarce...but what can you do?

I was reminded about something this last week. I'm absolutely and positively not perfect and I can't expect myself to be. All too often I set expectations for myself - high expectations - that I feel I must meet at the risk of being labeled a failure. I certainly want to set high standards for myself, push myself, challenge myself to reach my goals, but I'm absolutely and positively not pefect. Perfectionism and imperfect people don't mix.

After somewhat of a meltdown this last week, I opened my email to read this:

Perfectionism Is a Thief

"For He hath made Him to be sin for us, Who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him." 2 Corinthians 5:21

Did you know that your performance doesn't make you any more or less acceptable in God's eyes?

If you think that God is going to accept you on the basis of your quiet time, your Bible study, or your service, you will fall into a trap of never knowing if you've done enough. You'll never truly feel accepted.

Perfectionism is a thief. It promises rewards, but it steals both joy and satisfaction. Why? Because perfection is an unattainable goal! If you are a perfectionist, you've set an impossible goal for yourself, and therefore you will constantly be faced with frustration and failure.

Two things about you are true, without your "performance"—

- You are forgiven in Christ.

- You are righteous in Christ.

Are you a perfectionist? Ask the Holy Spirit to free you from the fear of failure. Now make a conscious decision that you can be less than perfect and still be loved by God.

(Pastor Adrian Rogers, Daybreak: Practicing the Presence of God)

That brought everything into perspective for me.

---
I am looking forward to:

finishing my spring break modular course (one credit hour in one week? Yes, please)
Saturday breakfast with Mom
another episode of Lost
sleeping in this weekend
warmer weather
Daylight Savings Time ushering in Spring (Mar 20th)
getting my hair cut and colored
another day out with Mom
St. Patrick's Day
having only four weeks until the end of semester

I want this dress, this dessert and this perfume...just because...

2010-02-21T19:25:00.001-06:00

It was the kind of day where the simplest things make the most special memories. We had Mom and Dad over for dinner after church and it was fun.

I made porkloin with carrots and snap peas.

I made a big chef salad.

I made creme' brulee. I used this recipe and it is excellent. It was a lot easier than I thought it would be and fun to make. Wal-Mart had amazing produce this week and I got delicious strawberries and blueberries at a great price.

The weather has been a little depressing lately, but I bought a small bouquet of pink tulips to brighten up the apartment. Our fellowship today over our meal really brightened my spirits, too.

It's just more proof that the simple things in life truly are the best.

new beginnings

2010-02-20T10:59:00.002-06:00

Every now and then it is wonderful to have a new beginning. For me that sometimes takes the form of cleaning out my closet. Sometimes it means re-setting goals, re-newing my perspective on life and re-membering the simple things. Sometimes it means taking the time to really hear the Lord's voice, to receive from Him, to make sure my feet are walking straight down the path He has chosen for me.

Spring brings so many new beginnings - the trees budding, flowers budding, fresh breezes, sunshine and longer days. It is a chance to start over again. It is an opportunity to embrace the new life that God gives when we humble ourselves, turn to Him and simply ask. It is a celebration of the fact that seasons do change. I can't wait for spring.

I was going to wash and vacuum my car today, but it looks like rain. I may do it anyways. My car desparately needs a "new beginning".

Work and school and everyday responsiblities are on my "to do" list today. But it's Saturday, so I don't feel quite the same pressure as I do during the week. In fact, the load has seemed a little lighter recently. I'm not sure if that's because I'm getting stronger or because the pressure has lightened. Who knows, but I'm grateful.

I am looking ahead with excitement to a trip to NYC and, a little later in the year, a mini beach vacation. My heart yearns to travel. My camera is crying out for it, too. I haven't had much time for photography in past months, but I hope to change that soon. It's one of those things on my "new beginnings" list.

Here are a few more things on that list:

- eat a healthly breakfast every morning (does that include these????)

- take my vitamins every morning (reminder is set and goes off promptly at 10am)

- excercise more regularly (biked and did weights last week and it felt so good)

- get 8-9 hours of sleep (last couple of nights I've been so tired that I've gotten more like 10)

- have devotions/prayer/memorize Scripture (Beth Moore's "Daniel" is excellent)

- drink plenty of water (never really had much of a problem with this, but it looks good on the list)

- get a blender so I can make fruit smoothies (any recommendations for a good blender/smoothie recipes?)

Here's to new beginnnings...

beach musings

2010-02-16T19:58:00.001-06:00

I have been dreaming about the beach. I am growing weary of wearing my winter coat. I want to dig my toes into the sand, soak in the sun and walk in the waves as the sun is setting. That is my dream. It will be a while before it comes true, but it is a lovely dream.

In the spare moments I find between my two jobs and my classes and the rest of life's responsibilities, I have been considering again that nothing is impossible with God. It is a simplistic thought, very basic theologically, but profound as I revisit it and relearn it. It is an encouragement to me to know, deep in my heart, absolutely nothing is impossible for God.

I have been working my way through Beth Moore's study on Daniel. I am into the eighth chapter now and in amongst studying alot of prophecy, back and forth between the Old and New Testament to compare, she gave this thought that really ministered to my heart:

"Oh, how Satan wants the people of God to think God has abandoned them! Thank goodness, God is the initiator, enabler and sustainer of relationship." (Daniel, pg.162)

It is so relieving to know that I don't have to hold everything together. Yes, I have to do my part. Relationships take input from both parties; relationships require give and take. Yet, God is the One who begins the relationship, He is the One who makes it possible and He is the One who ultimately keeps it going. Thankfully...gratefully...it is not left in my all too weak, human and totally helpless hands. It is in His hands.

And I can know that - know matter how it may look or feel at times - He has not abandoned me. He will never abandon me.

"I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for He is right beside me." ~ Psalm 16:8 NLT

Ah, I want the beach. I need the beach!

kiss

2010-02-08T22:52:00.000-06:00

In honor of V-Day, I Heart Faces is holding a special contest.

Check it out and join the fun!

inspiration for a new week

2010-01-31T21:45:00.000-06:00

- a new online Bible Study starting up this week

- a lot of encouragement to save your memories

- a beautiful post by a beautiful soul

- a recipe for delicious chocolate cupcakes

- a new miniseries that is delightful

- a beautiful ring

- a whimsical Valentine's Day photoshoot

- a fun photog contest for anyone

- a great way to upload videos and show them to the world

Our Long Weekend

2010-01-29T12:21:00.004-06:00

**EDIT: Updated video! Aren't you all excited????? This one is much longer (and a little better). Enjoy!**

The snow is still falling in big, fluffly flakes outside. We've had the rain, the freezing rain, the sleet (same thing?), winds and now the beautiful, white snow. Amazing. It was freakishly warm on Wednesday before the storm moved in and it was hard to believe that we were actually going to get the storm the weather channels were predicting.

Sure enough it came. Work was cancelled Thursday and again today. I have been playing catch up on my second job, studying, sleep and...blogging! I am grateful that we have kept power; I know many people are with out it right now. We have been prepared - bath tubs filled, candles ready, logs by the fire. So far they have not been needed and I count myself blessed.

I am listening to Michael Buble sing "All I Do the Whole Day Through is Dream of You." The fire is going in the fireplace. I've had a yummy breakfast of bacon, cinnamon rolls, orange juice and coffee. We've watched Return to Crandford and The Dick Van Dyke Show. And still the snow is falling.

Here is a little peek into our Long Weekend. I don't sound like me. Who sounds like themselves on video????? And it's kind of corny, but I've never claimed to be a videographer :)

Houston. Day 2.

2010-01-28T11:34:00.007-06:00

Mom and I started off Saturday morning with breakfast at the Houstonian's restaurant. It was fabulous and very relaxing: excellent coffee, fresh sqeezed raspberry/apple juice, eggs, fried potatoes, toast, lemon-blueberry waffles (for Mom) and bacon. It was so relaxing to just sit back and enjoy excellent service and excellent food.

After breakfast we headed straight over the last session of our Siesta SMT Celebration. We had some excellent praise ande worship time again. It was very uplifting. Amazing to think that most of us had never met, but it didn't feel like the first time we had been together. It felt natural.

"We'll join in singing with all the Redeemed;

Satan is vanquished and Jesus is King."

Beth gave another hour or so of teaching Psalm 119 and it was excellent. That Psalm has always intimidated me, but not after Saturday! She really made it real and applicable. I loved hearing the sincere, real thoughts of her heart on that great Psalm.

These are our verse cards that we have been carrying around and working on for the last year. They are the last year encapsulated in a way. Since we each picked the verses we personally wanted to memorize, a lot of them reflect what we were going through at the time.

After praise and worship and Beth's teaching, we took about 30 minutes and paired off to say our verses to each other. Mom and I had fun reciting the Scripture we had worked so hard on for the last year. We did really well and it was encouraging!

This is our hotel - the Houstonian. It was very nice and a fun stay.

Okay. We went to lunch at a cafe' that words can't even really describe. It was: european.lovely.amazing.delicious.welcoming.excellent.fun.memorable.

And I'm definitely going back someday! It is called the Tiny Boxwood's Cafe'.

We had a little wait in the Houston airport before our flight took off Saturday evening, so we spent some time having fries and a drink, just soaking up a little more fun and relaxation.

So, it was a fun, fast and full weekend. I wouldn't have traded it for the world.

Perfect three day weekend with my favorite sister and mom in the world.

Houston. Day 1.

2010-01-26T20:07:00.006-06:00

Houston. It was a blast! It was a fast, full and fun weekend. We had a super early flight out on Friday morning. We had an amazing breakfast at a place called La Peep. We walked through the entire Galleria until we were so tired we made our way to our hotel – The Houstonian – to take an early afternoon nap.

I think I slept for two full hours. We got up and had a great dinner at Ninfa’s. It was fabulous Mexican food. After that Mom and I dropped Lydia at the hotel and went on to the Siesta SMT Celebration - the purpose for our trip to Houston - that was taking place at Beth Moore’s church.

The Siesta SMT Celebration was a culminating event for a Scripture memory project around 2,000 ladies (including Mom and me) started in January 2009. Every two weeks we would post a verse of our own choosing on the LPM blog, write that verse on our note cards and commit it to memory. The goal was to memorize a total of 24 verses over the course of the year. Mom and I posted 24 verses to the blog over this past year and did really well at committing them to memory! We weren't perfect, but I memorized more verses than I would have alone. We have both been excited about attending the Celebration since it was announced this last summer.

It was a fun evening. We were privileged to take part in praise and worship with over 500 of our fellow Siestas, listen to an hour of teaching by Beth on Psalm 119 and enjoy some delicious Texas Sheet Cake and coffee afterwards. It was a great Friday!

"I am a resident alien, seeking direction, in deep want of wonder, in peril and need, troubled by humanity - especially my own - knowing that, to follow, is the only free road, for a straying sheep longing to be found."

houston. more coming.

2010-01-24T16:57:00.003-06:00

2010-01-14T15:10:00.003-06:00

Oswald Chambers:

Have You Ever Been Alone with God?

When He was alone . . . the twelve asked Him about the parable —Mark 4:10

His Solitude with Us. When God gets us alone through suffering, heartbreak, temptation, disappointment, sickness, or by thwarted desires, a broken friendship, or a new friendship— when He gets us absolutely alone, and we are totally speechless, unable to ask even one question, then He begins to teach us. Notice Jesus Christ’s training of the Twelve. It was the disciples, not the crowd outside, who were confused. His disciples constantly asked Him questions, and He constantly explained things to them, but they didn’t understand until after they received the Holy Spirit (see John 14:26).

As you journey with God, the only thing He intends to be clear is the way He deals with your soul. The sorrows and difficulties in the lives of others will be absolutely confusing to you. We think we understand another person’s struggle until God reveals the same shortcomings in our lives. There are vast areas of stubbornness and ignorance the Holy Spirit has to reveal in each of us, but it can only be done when Jesus gets us alone. Are we alone with Him now? Or are we more concerned with our own ideas, friendships, and cares for our bodies? Jesus cannot teach us anything until we quiet all our intellectual questions and get alone with Him.

Haiti:

Compassion International has made it very easy to donate towards disaster relief in Haiti.

Just go here and give what you can. If you can't give, please pray.

Manhattan Declaration:

"Because we honor justice and the common good, we will not comply with any edict that purports to compel our institutions to participate in abortions, embryo-destructive research, assisted suicide and euthanasia, or any other anti-life act; nor will we bend to any rule purporting to force us to bless immoral sexual partnerships, treat them as marriages or the equivalent, or refrain from proclaiming the truth, as we know it, about morality and immorality and marriage and the family. We will fully and ungrudgingly render to Caesar what is Caesar’s. But under no circumstances will we render to Caesar what is God’s." - Manhattan Declaration

You can go here to read it and here to sign it. The goal is one million signatures.

2010-01-06T20:28:00.001-06:00

New Year's weekend was so relaxing. It was perfect and...it seems like an age ago.

This picture is from part of the weekend. Please excuse the band-aid on my pinkie. I was filing like a mad woman at work on New Year's Eve and cut myself on a manila folder. Two words: It. Hurt.

So, after I got off work on Thursday and the holiday began, it was wonderful. Lydia and I made time for sleeping in, yummy breakfasts, The Dick Van Dyke Show, long walks, Passionberri, Target, Hobby Lobby, cleaning out our closets (felt so good!) and a movie Saturday night. Sunday was kind of a sick day for me because I had a relapse with my cold. So, I stayed inside and hung out on the couch and finished up a few things I had wanted to get done before a new work week (and month...and year) hit.

January is here. Work - both jobs - have started again in full force. Both of my classes started this week. Exciting times. I am adjusting to a new routine. It's all good.

--
"A Future of Hope"

When we are faced with disappointments and tragedies in our life, it is hard to envision what will happen in the days ahead. The future seems dark, bleak – almost unbearable. We cannot possibly imagine our situation getting any better. There are other times, however, when we have no difficulty using our imagination or vision. We can recall a happy time with loved ones, a beautiful scene on the beach, an exciting day at an amusement park, the moment we first fell in love with our mate. Such recollections often fill us with delight and pleasure, even though the actual events occurred years earlier.

We should look at the future with the same passion and fondness. Paul tells us in Hebrews 11:1 that, "Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." Our vision for tomorrow, next week or next year should be full of hope, energy and emotion – the same kind of exhilaration we experience from a dear memory. We need to remember where we are headed in the future: to the very throne of heaven, a city of infinite and everlasting beauty. We will, at last, be home with Our Father. What an incredible day awaits us!

~Dr. Bruce Swaffield (one of my professors at Regent this semester)

To a New Year, To a New Decade

2009-12-31T10:32:00.001-06:00

Oswald Chambers. December 31st.

YESTERDAY

"The God of Israel will be your rereward." Isaiah 52:12

Security from Yesterday. "God requireth that which is past." At the end of the year we turn with eagerness to all that God has for the future, and yet anxiety is apt to arise from remembering the yesterdays. Our present enjoyment of God's grace is apt to be checked by the memory of yesterday's sins and blunders. But God is the God of our yesterdays, and He allows the memory of them in order to turn the past into a ministry of spiritual culture for the future. God reminds us of the past lest we get into a shallow security in the present.

Security for To-morrow. "For the Lord will go before you." This is a gracious revelation, that God will garrison where we have failed to. He will watch lest things trip us up again into like failure, as they assuredly would do if He were not our rereward. God's hand reaches back to the past and makes a clearing-house for conscience.

Security for To-day. "For ye shall not go out with haste." As we go forth into the coming year, let it not be in the haste of impetuous, unremembering delight, nor with the flight of impulsive thoughtlessness, but with the patient power of knowing that the God of Israel will go before us. Our yesterdays present irreparable things to us; it is true that we have lost opportunities which will never return, but God can transform this destructive anxiety into a constructive thoughtfulness for the future. Let the past sleep, but let it sleep on the bosom of Christ.

Leave the Irreparable Past in His hands, and step out into the Irresistible Future with Him.

I Have a Dream

2009-12-30T10:22:00.002-06:00

I have more than just a dream. I have too many dreams to count. Some of them are big dreams, some are little. Most of them are simple dreams, every day dreams. But they are my dreams. As I look ahead to 2010, a new year, a fresh start, I start re-counting some of them.

1. Complete my M.A. in Journalism, become a freelance journalist and combine my writing with travel

2. Take a sandcastle building class

3. Drive Route 66 from beginning to end

4. See NYC

5. Travel to Sydney, Australia (see an opera), New Zealand and Fiji

6. Get married and have a family

7. Start up violin lessons again

8. Get a book published (maybe two)

9. Go to the zoo for an afternoon

10. Learn another language

11. Create a blog book

12. Do an indepth study of Psalms 20-29

13. Buy a house

14. See the top 10 beaches in the world

15. Host a Bible Study

16. Build my photography business

17. Move to another state for at least a year

That is just scratching the surface. I keep a notebook just to write down all the thoughts and ideas that run through my mind. My heart is full when I think about all of the desires the Lord has given me - dreams and desires and goals. And I think about more than just my dreams and my future. I think about my children and the dreams I hope to pass on to them. I think about the future I want them to have.

I think about these things and for the first time in my life I have begun to realize that I may never see my dreams come true. That concept is so foreign to me.

I live in the greatest country in the world, a country that has encouraged free enterprise, rewarded hard work and supported those who chose to pursue their dreams whatever they might be. A country that has always attracted the best and brightest from every other country on earth, that has drawn the innovative, the passionate, the free thinkers like a magnet, that has been home to the simple, every day person with simple, every day dreams. A country that has supported those people, has been on their side, has given them room to dream and live out those dreams - however big or small. I live in that country, my country, but now it has fallen into the hands of those who want to erase and eradicate everything that has made it great.

That is not just gloom and doom. That is not just overreaction. That is the cold, hard truth. And I will be the first to admit that I have pushed the truth aside. It is easier to live in denial, to ignore what is happening if it means that I can just go on with my life for a little while longer. But living in denial isn't going to help our country and the sooner we wake up and face the facts, the better the chance we have at saving our country. These people with their stimulus bills and health care bills and pro-muslim, anti-American, anti-God agendas want to destroy my dreams and my future and the dreams and futures of my children. I have made my wishes known to them. I (and thousands of others) have meticulously and patiently and passionately made our wishes known. We have written and called and marched and voted. We have done it all.

Still I see my dreams and my future and my country slipping away. Those in authority are unresponsive. They are deaf to our protests. They do not hear reason. They do not care. Not only do they not care, I see them actively working to destroy all the things for which my country stands, for which I stand. It is naive to say they are not working to destroy us. It is more than naive - it is wrong. There comes a time to look evil in the face and spit in its eye, come what may.

That time is coming very soon...if it is not already here now. As I see my dreams and my future slipping away, I am determined that I will not let them go with out a fight. In fact, I will not let them go with out an all out war. I am now beginning to understand just what the founding fathers were expressing when they pledged their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor in signing the Declaration of Independence. They had dreams, hope for a future for themselves and their children. They were simple, every day people who rose up in the face of evil and spit in its eye, come what may. And they won. By God's grace, I know we can do the same.

Micah 5:2-6

2009-12-30T10:17:00.002-06:00

But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah,

are only a small village among all the people of Judah.

Yet a ruler of Israel will come from you,

one whose origins are from the distant past.

The people of Israel will be abandoned to their enemies

until the woman in labor gives birth.

Then at last his fellow countrymen

will return from exile to their own land.

And he will stand to lead his flock with the Lord’s strength,

in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God.

Then his people will live there undisturbed,

for he will be highly honored around the world.

And he will be the source of peace.

good times with an old friend

2009-12-27T18:57:00.000-06:00

I think it's been nine years since we last saw each other. With modern technology and social networking, we have stayed fairly caught up on each other's lives. But it's still not the same as a face to face conversation over lunch (and a Starbucks!). It's not the same at all.

Face to face it's like those nine years never even happened. We're in high school again, talking and laughing like we did then. Face to face you remember again why friendships like that are so special - the ones where you can pick up where you left off (even after nine years) and feel the freedom to talk and laugh and - most importantly - be yourself.

Thanks, girl! Love ya! Let's do it again - before another nine years go by ;)

Christmas Fun

2009-12-27T18:47:00.000-06:00

It was a Christmas to remember. I have prayed for a white Christmas many, many times, but I have never received an answer like I did this Christmas! I am thankful that we were all together, safe and warm, that our power didn't go out, that we had plenty of food (boy, did we ever!) and that we were able to just relax and enjoy the cozy fire. They say we got a record 14.1 inches. Some of the drifts were close to three feet.

I realized driving south to go home yesterday that we were truly blessed. There were cars in the median, off the edges of the road...cars and car parts and car tracks. I know many people didn't have as safe or cozy a Christmas. Who would have known that the weathermen would be right after being wrong so often in the last few weeks? We certainly got a blizzard. It was the most snow I have seen in years.

Here are a few pictures of our Christmas fun:

2009

2009-12-22T18:14:00.006-06:00

January: Luke 1:45 and Colossians 3:17

A very full month. I had just started a new job the month before and was working out a new schedule for my second job. I started memorizing Scripture more purposefully. I started supporting Kristian through Compassion International and Rekharani through Bridge of Hope. I started working through Daniel by Beth Moore. I was breaking in my awesome Hyundai Sante Fe and loving it. We had a huge ice storm that kept us inside for a while.

February: Proverbs 23:17 & 18 and Romans 5:3

This was a very full month, too. Come to think if it, every month this year was full so I should just stop typing that. My day job moved into hyper-speed and my evening job was going strong at four days a week. I was optimistic. I had a great friend to work with (and we continue the fun this year!). My favorite TV show started up again. Lydia and I went to Winter Jam. It was loud. February flew by.

March: Matthew 7:7 and Isaiah 30:18

I took this month one day at a time. I was very busy and lived for the weekends when I could slow down a little. Spring started and that was wonderful; it helped remind me that seasons do change. Lydia and I had a fun photoshoot down town. We also went to Guthrie for the day. The pastor preached on seeing the sunshine through the rain.

April: Philippians 1:20 and Psalm 118:5-7

We had the wild fire come within a mile or so on the 11th. We packed all of the cars full. When we drove away that night, we could see the light from the flames reflecting on the clouds of smoke. We weren't sure the house would be standing when we came back. It was. It made me think again about what is truly important. April, you were packed with politics - on the state level and national level. Craziness. You were not a month of logic or reason. 2009, you have not been a year of logic or reason. I found a new lunch place. I also received beautiful flowers for Secretary's Day.

May: 1 Peter 1:8 and Psalm 119:107

This was my birthday month! Well, it's always my birthday month, but this year I turned the big 2-5. I got a lot of things off my birthday list, too, and had a wonderful dinner with the family. I was learning more and more to depend on Him and that the view is worth the valley. I was packing to move out. The seasons were certainly changing - outside and inside. Summer was starting to make its appearance. A good friend got married. I started studying for the GRE and making plans to apply to Regent University for graduate school.

June: Psalm 39:7 and Psalm 27:14

I made the move. I had a lot of help and it went very smoothly. I was afraid that I would be homesick, but I really wasn't. Actually, I didn't really know how I would react, but it was a very easy transition. I was thankful. New place, new friends, new church. It was an exciting time. My day job slowed down significantly. I consolidated my evening job to two evenings a week. I kept up my studying for the GRE, scared to death that I would bomb the math section. There were plenty of days by the pool, in the sun, soaking up summer.

July: Isaiah 50:10 and Proverbs 15:1

Summer continued. It was lovely. I was tan. The four of us girls had a fun photoshoot in downtown Norman. I took the GRE and got a higher score on the math than I did on the verbal. Lydia and I signed the lease on our apartment together. We also went to see Wicked. We moved into our new place. I was accepted to graduate school. My plans for a beach vacation finally became reality. I flew up to see a good friend first and we had a wonderful time. After that I flew down to Corpus Christi to meet my family. We spent four amazing days on the beach. It was perfect. [to view all the pics, start here]

(photo by Alyssa Welch)

August: Psalm 131:2a and Psalm 57:2

I was still on vacation for the first part, making memories, soaking up the sun...getting my cell phone stolen. I still haven't seen my cell phone, but I dug my old one out of my closet and it's still going strong. My little sister turned 21 and my mom had a birthday celebration. The girls and I had our annual downtown photoshoot like we have for the last two years. I took a field trip to the top of the capitol building and got to write my name on "the wall". I started graduate school.

September: Psalm 20:6 and Psalm 23:5

I was in the school books full force. I started getting my routine down between my day job and my evening job and school and keeping up with family and friends. The weather started to cool down just a little bit. Politics were still intense on the state and national level. I attended a Tea Party. Fall officially began.

October: Psalm 29:10-11 and Galations 5:16

Was a month that revolved around three things: school books, my laptop and my desk. Regular life was also fit into the nooks and crannies: work, paying bills, walks with Lydia, church, enjoying the weekends and grocery shopping. I did a photoshoot for a couple I really like. I thought about cutting my hair and didn't. We decorated for fall. I covered a city council meeting for my journalism class.

November: 1 Peter 1:6 and 1 Peter 5:7

We had amazing weather - upper 70's for almost a full week. It was beautiful. One day I checked off absolutely everything on my "to do" list. I will remember that forever. Lydia and I saw Jeremy Camp in concert. Went on a day trip to TX with the girls. I was challenged to go the second mile. I memorized: "So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while." ~1 Peter 1:6. We hosted a fall dinner at our place. We went to CO for Thanksgiving. I took one picture. I'm not posting it.

December: 1 Thessalonians 2:4b and Micah 7:7
This month ushered in the last three weeks of classes. Crazy hectic. I fit in double the work for my evening job so that I could take off two weeks for Christmas. I started supporting Josue through Compassion International. We decorated the apartment and put up our little tree. I finished my Christmas shopping. I finished all of my final projects and my last classes ended the 18th. It was intense. In bewtween finals, I took a small break to go to Guthrie with the girls. It was just what I needed to make the final push. We had a Christmas party at our place and had a great group of friends (and all the Christmas goodies we could want) come out. I re-designed my blog and, as one of my final projects, I designed a website for my photography business. This week I only worked two days. It's Christmas time.

December isn't over yet; who knows what else it might hold. This year has been so full and has gone by so fast. I made a lot of goals for 2009. Some of them I met, some I didn't. Some I met that weren't on the list. One that was on the list was "to be different at the end than I was at the beginning". Check. So many, many changes. Learning, growing, stretching, re-arranging. So different. And it's good.

Can't wait to see what 2010 holds.

2009-12-19T13:40:00.004-06:00

I am done....finished...complete...THIS SEMESTER IS OVER!!!!

So, I'm ready for a break. Just some relaxation.

Just a chance to dig my toes into the warm sand....

build some sand castles...

soak up some sun....

and just be.

Lydia in Guthrie

2009-12-18T10:31:00.003-06:00

a territorial christmas

2009-12-17T22:30:00.011-06:00

Lydia and I both took half days last Friday so we could meet up with Mom and Paula in Guthrie. We walked around, looked in some of the shops, took some pictures (more coming) and then stopped in at Granny Had One for an amazing, delicious, wish-I-could-eat-it-all-over-again dinner. I even tried fried green tomatoes for the first time.

After dinner we headed over to a cute, little cafe called Rick's for some chocolate and coffee. I ended up having a blackberry truffle - literally a whole, juicy blackberry with dark chocolate for a base - and The Republic of Tea's Blackberry Sage tea. Wow. It was perfect.

After Rick's, we headed over to the Pollard Theater and found our seats for "A Territorial Christmas". We were on the second row. The show was very good and we had a lot of fun. I would recommend it to anyone. Most of all, it was just fun to take a break from studying and work and do something relaxing. It was fun to stay out late and make the most of a Friday night.

Ruby Sinatra

2009-12-14T19:37:00.004-06:00

It's "Pet's Only!" over at I Heart Faces.

I had too many to choose from...ahhhh! Cuteness. Yes, Ruby Sinatra has stolen the show once again.

more coming...after I finish a final paper...

2009-12-12T12:45:00.001-06:00

Christmas 2009

2009-12-10T21:14:00.002-06:00

Christmas 2009 from Hannah R on Vimeo.

a thursday in december

2009-12-10T10:53:00.009-06:00

"Hope means that in spite of the relentless terrors, tragedies, and traumas of life, we maintain a stubborn confidence that there is a greater story at work-a story that does not deny these painful realities but interprets them in light of the story's ending, an ending where weeping turns to laughter and despair becomes joy." ~Shane Hipps, Flickering Pixels, page 170
*
Since it has been so insanely cold lately, I started thinking about times in my life when I have been freezing cold. We could start with today...I thought I was going to go into hypothermic (is that a word?) shock waiting for my car to warm up this morning. And today - even with the heater cranked up - my office still had a chill and my hands were cold even when I was typing...and I felt a draft on the back of my neck from somewhere. Weird. Brrrrrrr...

I remember the very first trip I made to Russia in 2002. We went to a huge, outdoor market called Ismaliva where you could buy pretty much anything. Want a Russian bomber hat? Check. Want a Matruska doll with 30 parts? Check. Anyways, it was COLD. They said the temperature registered at -30 that day with the wind chill. And I had to wear a skirt. Well, I wore skirts...and pants under my skirts...and boots and several layers on top with a long wool coat and hat and scarf and gloves. By the time we were done shopping and waiting to go home, my feet still felt like big blocks of wood. It was cold.

I also remember hiking up to Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany. We had to park down below and hike the path up to the castle. It was cold. Thankfully I didn't have to wear a skirt that day. I had on ski pants and a parka and boots and a hat, scarf and gloves (clothing much more suited to the low temps). But it was still cold. Worth it for sure but cold.
*
Okay...I just have to say that I don't think I've ever seen anything as cute as this little guy. Oh, my word. I want to wrap him up and take him home. I had never heard of a Chiweenie before today. My boss has one and I laughed out loud when he told me. Who would have thought a Chihuahua and a Dachshund mix would be so cute?! Love it.
*
I always love the articles along the lines of "What's in My Make-up Bag" or "Things I'm Loving Now" that you find in magazines like InStyle or Lucky...so, I thought I would give it a try for myself...

What's Makin' Me Smile:

An artist who sings a fresh twist on Christmas music.

Seriously the best smelling and most moisturizing hand lotion.

Scrumptious Christmas candy that re-defines temptation.

A whimsical and cute way to combat these cold, dry days.

Refreshing and delicious ways to stay hydrated.

Warm and comfy boots that are just right for the price.
*
Just 13 days 'til Christmas!

Stay tuned for a little Christmas video from our house to yours.

2009-12-06T08:38:00.005-06:00

2009-12-04T12:22:00.003-06:00

Proof that the 2nd Ammendment affectively prevents crime.

I know it's not a very Christmas-like topic, but I came across this story today and I felt like cheering. And I also couldn't help but think that the outcome might have been very different if this woman had not been armed. So, maybe it is a Christmas-like topic. This woman will still be celebrating Christmas with her husband and family because of the 2nd Ammendment.

Don't let anyone tell you that gun control prevents crime. A 16-gauge shot gun prevents crime.

photo post

2009-12-02T20:15:00.013-06:00

Here are some photos of our place the day we had a Fall Dinner with some friends. I don't think I've ever posted pictures of the living room. Now that it is finished, I thought I would. It has turned out very cozy and we like it very much. Lydia has a modern/chic style and I tend towards classic/vintage. We have tried to mix our tastes through out the main living area and it has created a great modern/vintage vibe, I think.

I have no pictures of our Thanksgiving trip. Well, I took one pic, but it was not exactly a masterpiece. I just had no desire to pull out my camera. I guess I was zoning...tired of creating...haha. Oh, well. Some things are just meant to live in the memory.

2009-12-01T11:03:00.003-06:00

It has not really seemed like the Christmas season to me.

Maybe a Dove peppermint bark candy would help.
Maybe tomorrow's forecast will help: snow flurries.
Maybe the Christmas shopping I have left to do will help.
Maybe it will help to see The Christmas Carol next week.
Maybe Christmas music playing as I type will help.
Maybe a little Christmas poem will help:

O Christmas Child –The Son of God, the Savior,
O tiny Babe -–Creation’s Joy and Crown,
O Holy One –The LORD OF ALL forever:
We come before Your mercy seat,
Where wise men of the ages meet.
We lay our treasures at Your feet
And bow down.
~from Renewal Ministries newsletter
(©Copyright 2001 Broadman and Holman Publishing)

Maybe it will help to decorate our little tree and hang our wreath on the door.
Maybe a cup of hot cocoa with lots of marshmallows will help.
Maybe wrapping paper and ribbon and tape and tissue paper will help.
Maybe just saying it will help: Merry Christmas!

~~~~
I will be super busy for the next 18 days (classes end then), but I finally took some photos of the rest of our apartment and I want to post those soon.

I have a "thank you" list for 2009 started and have been finishing it in my head since I haven't had a lot of extra time to actually write it all out. Instead of just listing things, I started really thinking about what I was thankful for from this last year and began writing whole paragraphs in response to each thing I put on the list. It will be quite long, I think. I am blessed again when I think about how long the list is. God has been faithful. That sounds so trite most of the time, even to myself. It's easy to say and sometimes (regardless of how long the "thank you" list is) so hard to actually believe. But it's true. And I am thankful.

~flare~

2009-11-23T18:41:00.005-06:00

getting in the spirit

2009-11-16T13:27:00.001-06:00

~homemade~

2009-11-10T12:07:00.013-06:00

**Cinnamon Dolce Latte**

1 cup Starbucks coffee brewed
1 tsp sugar-free vanilla syrup
1 tbsp cream
Dash of cinnamon

Stir ingredients together and top with a swirl of whipped cream.

It's perfect. The price is, too.

"Now we live with great expectation..."

2009-11-09T09:24:00.019-06:00

"So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while." ~1 Peter 1:6
*
Natalie Grant "Held".
*
The Testing of Your Faith

"Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you."
~1 Peter 4:12

Has something bad happened to you and you said, "Oh me. What did I do? I must have done something terrible. Otherwise, this wouldn't have happened!" And before you knew it, you fell headlong into a pity party of morbid introspection — taking yourself apart piece by piece to see where you went wrong. If you're like most people, you have.
But have you ever thought that maybe you've done absolutely nothing wrong, but God is simply testing your faith? This is an important truth for you to understand, because if you don't, you may get discouraged. The seeds of doubt and discouragement sprout in the soil of ignorance.
Read Exodus 16 about the testing of the Lord in the lives of the Israelites while they were wandering in the desert. What applications can you give to your life?

~November 3, 2009 - Love Worth Finding w/Pastor Adrian Rogers
*
The Second Mile

"If a soldier demands that you carry his gear for a mile, carry it two miles." ~Matthew 5:41

"Either way, Christ’s love urges us on." ~2 Corinthians 5:14a

"While others see you on the first mile, they see Christ on the second." - Mel Blackaby

Am I willing to go the second mile with Christ, to push on, to push through, to get back up when I fall and fail? Am I willing to experience frustration, pain and heartache for the sake of going further with the Lord? Am I willing to be fully committed, to intercede for those who hurt me, to love beyond myself, to be taken advantage of, to be used by the Lord? Am I willing to push through my personal "wall", to finish the race with endurance, to run with out giving up even when the finish line isn't in sight?
*
"Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about you." ~1 Peter 5:7
*
An encouraging word.
*
"But the whole point of the fairy tale of the Gospel is, of course, that He is the king in spite of everything."
~Frederick Buechner, Page 90: Telling the Truth: The Gospel as Tragedy, Comedy and Fairy Tale.
*
"Now we live with great expectation, and we have a priceless inheritance—an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. And through your faith, God is protecting you by His power until you receive this salvation, which is ready to be revealed on the last day for all to see." ~1 Peter 1:3-5

[framing it]

2009-11-05T09:47:00.004-06:00

What makes me feel more rested than 9 full hours of sleep?

Checking off everything on my "to do" list.

I'm looking at it now...all those beautiful check marks...and I want to frame it. It's lovely.

*
Tomorrow I will be sitting in the Artist's Circle listening to Jeremy Camp, Bebo Norman and Natalie Grant.

It will be amazing.

*
The weather is so beautiful! I want to move my desk outside.

I am looking forward to soaking up the sun this weekend.

It's almost Friday, people.

this sums it up

2009-11-03T15:19:00.002-06:00

3x's beautiful

2009-10-29T21:17:00.000-05:00

behind the scenes

2009-10-28T07:01:00.021-05:00

This is a little behind the scenes shot of yours truly in action - thanks to my amazing assistant, Lydia.
*
This picture makes me realize my hair is long. Longer than it's been since I was four years old, I think. I'm thinking of "making the cut"...not super short...just short-er.
*
Okay. I know I've tried the poll thing before...and without a huge amount of success. I tell myself it's because only 6 out the thousands of people who read my blog actually noticed the poll in the side bar last time. Is it lame to admit that I voted in my own poll to raise the number? Oh, well. If I'm writing these blog posts just for me, so be it.
*
Anyway, all that to say, I'm not going to do a poll on whether I should cut my hair or not. Your loss. Actually...it's not worth the embarrassment. So, I'll simply say: I have absolutely no idea whether I'm going to cut my hair short or not. It will be a surprise, even to me.
***
Speaking of "behind the scenes", it's easy to think that what we see and hear on the news every day is all that there is - that nothing is stirring underneath, nothing is taking place somewhere out of sight, that God has forgotten our nation.
*
If people crush underfoot all the prisoners of the land,
If they deprive others of their rights in defiance of the Most High,
If they twist justice in the courts— doesn’t the Lord see all these things?"
~Lamentations 3:34-36
*
I know that He does and that He is at work behind the scenes even if it is not visible or apparent. He sees and He is acting on behalf of those who love Him.
***
More "behind the scenes" from my life this week:

crazy dreams at night
papers to write
lucky charms twice in one day
sonic jr. deluxe burger & a Diet Dr. Pepper for $2.59
city council meeting

2009-10-22T07:19:00.002-05:00

Just had to share one more of my favorites...

a scarf

2009-10-20T21:55:00.005-05:00

L+B: love in the fall

2009-10-18T18:15:00.008-05:00

sun worshippers & big city dwellers

2009-10-15T08:47:00.012-05:00

This morning on my drive to work I noticed a church sign that read: Sun Worship.

Of course it had the time of the service following and of course the average Evangelical wouldn't have any trouble understanding what they meant. They might have needed a double-take like I did, but the light bulb would have gone off fairly quickly (like it did for me).

Still I couldn't help but think, if this was any place but the southwest where there is a church on every corner, how confusing would that sign be? Like in Seattle or somewhere like that?

Sun worship???? Awesome. Let's try it out.

I'm wondering if it isn't a new technique to draw people in...less expensive than all the advertising. I could be totally off and over-imagining, but you never know. Maybe I'll check it out on Sunday...

*
Today is a special day. I stopped at Starbucks for a latte. Frugality is currently (and indefinitely) my middle name, so this came after reviewing the past week's expenses (nata).

"I have a tall Cinnamon Dolce Latte at the bar," the Barista said cheerily.

I stepped up and took the lovely beverage, slipped on the cardboard sleeve with the signature Starbucks label and left with a happy sigh. The breeze was chilly as I stepped outside to walk to my car - chilly but invigorating. I was wearing my black, high-heeled boots, too. For a few fleeting moments I imagined that I was a big city dweller and that a Starbucks latte was part of my every day routine.

It was a nice dream. Maybe someday. Someday when the sun worshippers and the big city dwellers live together in peace and harmony.

all grown up

2009-10-14T09:27:00.023-05:00

I remember thinking I was all grown up when I was thirteen. I didn't realize then how far I still had to go. The biggest difficulty I faced was convincing the hostess at a restaurant that I really was too old for the kid's menu. I'm 13...not "12 and under", thank you very much.

The next thirteen years of my life would prove to be a little more complex - the real pains that come with actually being "all grown up". Although I'm still trying to convince the hostesses at restaurants that I'm too old for the kid's menu. Yes, believe it or not, I don't really need a plastic cup with a lid, thank you very much.

I think about being thirteen now and I smile. Those were the days. I couldn't have these days without having had those days. These days when being grown up means paying bills and working two jobs and meeting deadlines, greater freedom, following the dreams the Lord has given me, and continuing to build on the foundation that was laid in those first thirteen years.

I don't think I realize how far I still have to go. And I ask myself, "Do I ever want to be 'all grown up'?" No. I don't really think so. I want to leave room for growth in the next 13 years...and the 13 years after that...and the 13 years after that, Lord willing, when I will be begging the hostesses at restaurants for a kid's menu. But I promise you, I still feel "12 and under", thank you very much.

The truth is, most of the time I do. And that's okay. I have plenty of time to be "all grown up".

2009-10-09T11:08:00.005-05:00

I haven't been posting very many pictures lately. Unless school books, my computer or my desk and chair seem ultra interesting, I didn't think anyone would mind. I hope to have pictures coming in the weeks ahead...of more interesting subjects than inanimate objects.

But those things are a large part of my life - work and school - with normal responsibilities thrown in and a mixture of simple pleasures that make life good: coffee on my drive to work, a crisp fall breeze, Sunday evenings at Starbucks, a long walk, candy corn, a hot bath, reading a book just for fun, saving money on my auto/renter's insurance, a cinnamon crunch bagel from Panera, time with a friend and the list could go on.

Did I mention Reese's Peanut Butter Cups (the ones with the pretty, fall wrappers) in my candy bowl? Uh huh. Another simple pleasure. Love them. I shouldn't be alone at the office with them.

Ahem.

*Changing the subject*

I am looking forward to a long, cozy weekend - chilly temps, sleeping in, moseying around in my pj's, reading a whole stack of magazines, sipping coffee, watching movies, etc. I may get out to do some grocery shopping (who knew it could be fun?). Is it strange that I find grocery shopping at Wal-Mart on the weekend relaxing? I figure if I have to spend money, I might as well have fun doing it - even if I am buying produce and canned goods.

a post of friday goodness

2009-10-02T09:08:00.018-05:00

I adore these bags. I want one. Christmas is coming...

I think I must make these. They look scrumptious.

I love sleep. Last night I slept so well. Tomorrow I get to sleep some more.

I believe pumpkin sounds pretty good, too.

I had the best apple cake today...like something straight out of Bavaria. Yum.

I feel inspired by fall - it's scents and tastes and treasures.

I am not into Halloween all that much, but this gave me a smile.

I can almost feel the beauty these images capture.

with passion and eloquence

2009-10-01T11:03:00.002-05:00

If you think you are the only one who loves your country...

If you think you are the only one who cares that your freedoms are slowly disappearing...

If you think you are the only one who feels helpless and hopeless...

If you think you are just one person and that you can't make that much of a difference...

If you think you are...I encourage you to read and/or listen to this.

It will buoy your faith. It will rally you. It will remind you that you are not alone.

.poor man's toffee. marshmallows. quiet mondays.

2009-09-28T15:18:00.013-05:00

Buttery, crunchy, chocolaty, marshmallowy delicious-ness...

Poor Man's Toffee
1 package graham crackers
1 cup sugar
1 1/2 sticks butter
1 bag dark chocolate chips
1/2 bag marshmallows (optional)
1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped (optional)

Heat oven to 375F.
Place graham crackers on a foil-lined cookie sheet that has edges.
Melt butter in a large sauce pan; stir in sugar. Bring to a boil and stir for 4-5 minutes or until it turns a beautiful, toffee brown.
Pour mixture evenly over the graham crackers.
Bake for 8-10 minutes or until it looks done.
Place on a wire wrack, sprinkle the chocolate chips over the graham cracker/candy base and smooth them out with a spoon as they melt.
Pour marshmallows or pecans or both on top or place carefully so that every square inch has a marshmallow or a pecan - whatever you prefer.
Let cool. You can place the pan on wire wrack in the fridge for faster cooling.
Break into odd-shaped, random pieces and enjoy!
**It can be stored in the freezer...if you have any left over.**

*
Speaking of marshmallows, I saw this on another blog and thought it was cute.

*
Today was so beautiful and fall like. It was a quiet Monday, a calm Monday and that is always a blessing. I always feel like I have been successful if I can make it through Monday in one piece (who doesn't?). And it is a wonderful bonus when I make it through a Monday feeling almost more like it's a Thursday or something. Mondays will never feel like Fridays. I think that's impossible, would be close to miraculous if it actually did occur. But today was close.

wonderful world

2009-09-25T14:15:00.014-05:00

Today I had lunch at a deli/cafe' downtown. They have seating outside and it was a beautiful day. I wanted to stay forever. I had an amazing sandwich, two glasses of wonderful iced tea, soaked up some sun and just relaxed. "What a Wonderful World" was coming from the speakers in the corner, wafting across the patio. A gentle breeze whisked an occasional, random leaf across the street. The only thing that place is missing is a bakery section. I sat there and thought, "I want to go back to Europe so bad." And then I thought, "I get to sleep in tomorrow." And that made things a little better.

*
This is too cute.

*
Take this world from me
I don't need it anymore
I am finally free
My heart is spoken for
Oh and I praise you
Oh and I worship you...

Covered by your love divine
Child of the risen Lord
To hear you say "This one's mine"
My heart is spoken for

Now I have a peace
I've never known before
I find myself complete
My heart is spoken for
Oh and I praise you
Oh and I worship you...

By the power of the cross
You've taken what was lost
And made it fully yours
And I have been redeemed
By you that spoke to me
Now I am spoken for

"Spoken For" by Mercy Me

*
I'm looking forward to:

~blt's and passionberri
~the weekend
~starbucks
~inspirations
~pulling out fall clothes
~friends coming over
~birthday parties
~a concert
~a day trip
~colorado
~a christmas carol
~finishing my first semester
~christmas/new years

fall

2009-09-22T09:18:00.012-05:00

My favorite things about this first day of fall:

*Delicious soup in the crockpot (and crusty bread) waiting for me to get home

*A crisp, cool breeze

*Wearing heels and slacks

*Hot tea in my travel mug for the drive to work

*Playing my Michael Buble Radio while I work - www.lastfm.com

*It's a Tuesday and not a Monday

*Thanksgiving and Christmas are right around the corner

Tea Party 2009

2009-09-15T20:57:00.019-05:00

Attendees of the Tea Party Rally: 5,500

Attendees of the Pro-Obamacare Rally: 300

It was a cool, drizzly day and I really wasn't sure how many people would show up at 3pm for the march portion of the rally. I shouldn't have wondered; there was a huge crowd already gathered that was growing by the minute. We were even delayed briefly because the police department had underestimated the number of people who would be attending.

We started west on 23rd, wound our way up the off ramp from Lincoln, down Lincoln Blvd on the jog that circles around the Capitol, and ended at the North Plaza. Different people led out with "jodies" ("chants" for those of you without a military background), many people carried signs, and there were bursts of patriotic songs along the way. As we marched, I couldn't help but think, We're making history. I'm not sure, but it could be. I wonder if the Founding Father's thought that as they each stepped foot on the road that would lead to Independence? Or did it not really even cross their minds?
We all finally made it to the North Plaza where more of the crowd was already gathered. It was still drizzly, cool, overcast. As each of the speakers stood behind the podium the message was clear. This isn't about one party or the other. It's not about race or religion. It comes down to what our Founding Fathers stated clearly in the Declaration of Independence - life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. We each - Democrat and Republican alike - feel those inherent rights being threatened. What God has given, man must never be allowed to take away. Each of us knows that in our heart of hearts.

The program lasted for a little over an hour. I stood next to an elderly man for most of that time. He had stepped up to fill a whole in the crowd and we ended up within a few feet of each other. I couldn't help but think - perhaps he had fought in one of our nation's wars, perhaps more than one. Perhaps he had vivid memories of what it means to fight for freedom. Perhaps I was one of those he had given his blood and sweat and tears to defend, to preserve the freedoms I now enjoy. They were just some thoughts. But maybe...

I'm glad I got to take part in a small stand for freedom. Small though it maybe, it's what I can do right now. Besides write passionate, informed letters to those in positions of leadership, re-register with my new address so I'm ready to vote, besides pray, it's what I can do for now.

Here is some interesting coverage of the 9/12 Tea Party in Washington, D.C..

2009-09-14T21:54:00.005-05:00

*Here's a short video I put together of the Tea Party.

**Make sure to scroll down and turn off the music at the bottom of the page**

*The crackling noise you hear is the rain falling on the umbrellas. I think it gives a good taste of the event. I didn't get the march on tape though. We started from the History Center went up 23rd to Lincoln and around to the north side of the Capitol.

*More later with pictures.

2009-09-13T18:40:00.008-05:00

Dear Mr. President,

I have a message for you and your Senior Advisor David Axelrod: NO, YOU'RE WRONG.

What you saw happen yesterday in Washington, D.C. and what happened today at my state capitol is very much indicative of this nation's mood. We are not going away. We will not be silenced. We will act. We will take a stand. We will fight and we will die defending our nation from such as you.

I know that it scares you to death. It scares you to death to think that thousands of people with that kind of passion and courage and determination oppose you and the communist regime you are trying to establish. It scares you to death that we embrace and will die defending the 2nd amendment. It scares you to death to think that you will be defeated.

But you will. Unlike you, Mr. President, I mean what I say. We mean what we say. And we love our country. We will follow through. We will not give up. Watch out for the underdog, Mr. President. We will win the day.

Sincerely,

A Tea Party Patriot

a poem on friday

2009-09-11T11:23:00.000-05:00

Disturb us, Lord, when
We are too well pleased with ourselves,
When our dreams have come true
Because we have dreamed too little,
When we arrived safely
Because we sailed too close to the shore.

Disturb us, Lord, when
With the abundance of things we possess
We have lost our thirst
For the waters of life;
Having fallen in love with life,
We have ceased to dream of eternity
And in our efforts to build a new earth,
We have allowed our vision
Of the new Heaven to dim.

Disturb us, Lord, to dare more boldly,
To venture on wider seas
Where storms will show your mastery;
Where losing sight of land,
We shall find the stars.
We ask You to push back
The horizons of our hopes;
And to push into the future
In strength, courage, hope, and love.

~Sir Francis Drake

apologies

2009-09-10T09:22:00.018-05:00

To any blog readers I may have, I apologize. You may have noticed I post on political topics fairly regularly. You may have also noticed that those posts have a decidedly conservative flavor. All I can say is...that's just the way it is. So, on second thought, I don't apologize. I love my country. I want what's best for my country. Every day I read something in the news that intensifies my frustration over the current state of my nation and fuels my desire to see right and truth prevail.

The flags are all at half mast in my heart today. I feel so helpless. I feel as though I have no voice or, rather, that my voice is so little. I can pray and I can vote and I can write letters. I can post here for the few who might read it. But it's not enough. I have to do something. I am praying that God will show me what I should do. I know what needs to be done, but I want to know what part I am supposed to play specifically to accomplish it.

This fired me up this morning. It actually brought tears of frustration and helplessness to my eyes. We have a president who stands within the walls of our Congress and lies to our nation - out right and unabashed - and when someone calls him on it, that man is crucified. There might be much debate over Rep. Wilson's actions - it certainly makes you step back and think about what is right and where it is right - but I believe all of those things are a little less to the point at this stage in the game.

Here is the email I sent to Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC):

Dear Congressman Wilson,

I know that you are being inundated with emails and phone calls concerning what happened during Obama's address to Congress yesterday.

I just wanted to say that I think what you said should have been said a long time ago. Perhaps if it had, perhaps if it had been said loud enough, perhaps if there were more Republicans with backbone, you would not have had to sit and listen to last night's speech in the first place.

Take a lesson from John Wayne - never apologize. If you believe what you said, then why are you apologizing? Because you disrupted a speech by the sitting president of our country? Perhaps much more should be disrupted before our country is irreparably destroyed. I agree with what you said - but now you have to follow your words with actions...otherwise you are no better then they are. What do you have to lose?

Someone should have taken a stand a long time ago - except with no apologies. I know I'm not the only voting citizen who feels helpless because their federal representatives do not have enough backbone to break out of the mold, stand up against the system and do what needs to be done no matter the cost - with no apologies. Why are we always apologizing? Why do we feel the need to apologize for the truth? If it has to be done, then count the cost and do it. If it needs to be said, then count the cost and say it. But don't apologize for it afterwards. Apologizing - in this light - is nothing more than cowardice masquerading as diplomacy.

EDIT: Here is a little flashback for your viewing pleasure.

2009-09-08T16:16:00.001-05:00

Hmmm...that's interesting.

I wonder why?

2009-09-06T17:32:00.004-05:00

I've been having a little "get-away" this weekend. I've gone shopping (Dear Target, it had been too long!), I've studied, I've slept, I've watched Bourne on the big screen (when you're used to a 17" computer screen, anything else seems like the big screen), I've listened to Mark Driscoll, I've baked...

And today I had lunch out back. I made a chef salad that was delicious. I did some studying. It was a beautiful late-summer-almost-fall-day. The grass is still growing green and there was a slight haze of humidity in the air. There were a few flies buzzing around and the sun was warm - but a cool breeze was stirring the leaves on the trees, there was the smell of someone burning brush - the sky just had that look...that look of fall.

Here's a little collage of Ruby and Zoe hanging out:This is Ruby in my lap after her bath...after our walk...after our nap. Now she is taking another nap. She won't really admit it (although she was hot with her tongue hanging out when I started her bath and the cool water felt good so she was wagging her tail today), but I know she loves her baths. Then I decided to bake these. I have been craving them for a while. I decided to try my hand at documenting my venture for your viewing pleasure.

There were 2 whole tablespoons of vanilla in this recipe. That's what I'm talking about.

.Perfection.

So, I am having fun. I think I will make some pizza and watch another Bourne and take a bubble bath and read the rest of The Cost of Discipleship.

.prevented.

2009-09-04T21:42:00.007-05:00

"For You send blessings of good things to meet him..."
~Psalm 21:3 (AMP)

"When God's blessings come sooner and prove richer than we imagine, when they are given before we prayed for them, before we were ready for them, nay, when we feared the contrary, then it may be truly said that he prevented us with them. Nothing indeed prevented Christ, but to mankind never was any favour more preventing than our redemption by Christ."
~Matthew Henry on Psalm 21:3

.prevented.
to act ahead of - to anticipate - to interpose a hindrance

a little bit of life

2009-09-03T09:31:00.015-05:00

I am so excited about the photo shoot we had done while we were down on the Gulf. The pictures will always remind me of our beach get-away - the time we spent together as a family, the fun memories we made and how nice it was to escape for a little while. The tone that they set is perfect - warm and beachy and colorful. I love them.

Photos by Alyssa Welch

~~~~~~~

Life has continued it's fast pace for me - just as the summer flew by, I know fall will, too. The school year has begun. In a way it seems very natural to be getting back into the books and meeting assignment deadlines. In another way it seems strange to be going back to school after thinking I was probably done. It is surreal to think that I am a grad student. I know it's not like there aren't people going to grad school all over the place...I just never really thought I would be one of those people. I started out being certain I wouldn't be... then I began hoping I could be....then I set to work so that I would be. God has faithfully led me each step of the way and I know He will be there when I feel like I'm drowning or need a burst of inspiration or when I just need to celebrate the tasks accomplished.

~~~~~~~

"Rejoice not against me, O my enemy! When I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord shall be a light to me."

~Micah 7:8 AMP

~~~~~~~

This cooler weather is delicious. I made Eggplant Parmesan last night with fresh basil from the plant Mom gave us for our patio. I love the trail mix with the milk chocolate, white chocolate and butterscotch chips in it. I am tempted to pull out some of my fall clothes, but don't want to rush things. A three day weekend is just ahead!

2009-09-01T19:37:00.011-05:00

That clinches it—help's coming,
an answer's on the way,
everything's going to work out.
~Psalm 20:6 The Message
*
"...National Socialism was a brutal attempt to make history without God and to found it on the strength of man alone."

"...men can lose their country if it is represented by an anti-Christian regime."

"...It is not only a Christian right but a Christian duty towards God to oppose tyranny."

"Jesus asks nothing of us without giving us the strength to perform it."

Excerpts from The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer (pgs, 16, 28, 29 & 38)

I am reading Bonhoeffer's work for one of my master's courses. I found it interesting how the changes that took place in his home country of Germany parallel the changes that are taking place in America today. We are reliving the past because we have neglected to learn from it.

We do have advantages if we choose to make use of them.

We have foreknowledge of what is coming for our Nation if nothing changes. We can act now! We don't have to wonder what will happen if we do nothing. We know. This should spur us to action. Yet, perhaps you're like me - it's hard to know what to do exactly, short of running for office or marching to Washington. I have struggled with this. From what I can see right now, prayer is a good start. Making the truth known in every way possible, day by day, whether in big or small ways, as I live out the callings the Lord has laid on my heart. Listening for the Holy Spirit to show me exactly what He would have me do or say or write. Staying informed of current events so that I am ready to explain what I believe and why, strengthening my faith in the Lord for whatever the days ahead may hold, and taking part in the grass root movement (Can anyone say "Tea Party"?) I see steadily growing.

We also have the courage that we receive from the examples of men and women like Dietrich Bonhoeffer who have opposed the rise of tyranny to the death. History is full of their stories. Our Nation's founding is full of their stories. So many will not be known until this world has passed away. If they can do it, we can do it, too.

We have the solution to the forces that threaten to corrupt our Nation. We can see them in Dietrich Bonhoeffer's response to the rise of Nazi Germany:

"Bonhoeffer was a great patriot and he loved his country so much that he preferred death to safety." (pg, 27)

and

"...It was Dietrich Bonhoeffer who more than anybody else realized that nothing less than a return to the Christian Faith could save Germany." (pg, 27)

To that, all I can say is "Amen".

2009-08-29T18:29:00.003-05:00

Trying out a collage for a change.

i'd like to say i'm a thinker

2009-08-28T09:03:00.006-05:00

You probably consider yourself one, too. In reality, it's pretty easy. Even if some try to convince us otherwise, we all know the truth - we aren't as stupid as they assume we are. Unlike the Scarecrow, we do have brains.

But if you'd like to practice a little (just in case), here is a great place to start.

This one especially might get you off on the right foot (or the right brain, as the case may be).

US

2009-08-27T21:08:00.003-05:00

And then...there's US.

These are a little more tricky since I can't really be behind the camera or pass the camera off to someone else (well, except on the last two). I am forced to use the dreaded tripod *shiver*.

BUT...it does its job and I am thankful we have a way to capture the three of us together with out grabbing some random stranger as they walk by...although there were plenty of people (ahem...guys) who would have willingly obliged us ;)

ME

2009-08-27T20:56:00.004-05:00

These are thanks to Lauren who took the camera in hand so that I could get some pics of me. It's totally different being in front of the camera than it is being behind the camera.

Thank you, Lauren!

my flower children (spring cometh)

2009-08-27T18:32:00.011-05:00

If you want a smile, check out this painting. It's hanging in the East Entrance as part of this month's art display so I saw it walking in this morning.
*
And it made me smile. There was Zoe with a big, flower bonnet on and little Ruby peeking out.
*
I would buy it and hang it in my living room if it weren't for the fact that I am a poor grad student. My Flower Children...haha...I know it would make me smile every time I looked at it.
***EDIT: The link to the painting should be working now!!!!***

a tuesday field trip

2009-08-26T19:41:00.013-05:00

We started with the inside gallery. The dome still takes my breath away .This shows the different levels all the way down to the first floor where the seal is.This next series of pictures was taken on our first-level stop outside.

Then we continued the climb. Most of the stairs were spiral staircases; some were these strange, stair-stepping ladders. This next series of pictures is from our second-level stop outside.

Then we went went back inside to the very, very top gallery. I couldn't quite capture the entire view without getting some of the railing, but you can see the first gallery we stopped at and then all the way down to the first floor again. Crazy.And this stained glass piece is what you see when you look straight up at the dome from the lower levels. I was so close I could have touched it with my hand. Then we were back outside again on our top-level stop, right at the feet of the Indian. The view was beautiful. It was a perfect day - clear and sunny with a cool breeze. Here's the OKC skyline. A view of the South (front) entrance from above. What I have heard is going to be the new Supreme Court building.The OK History Center.Us.And...my name. It's now on The Wall. I have made history.

It was a fun field trip. It will be a great memory to have and a great story to tell my kids some day.

2009-08-26T12:49:00.003-05:00

Here is an excellent, logical discourse on the global warming debate.

the miracle

2009-08-26T10:03:00.012-05:00

My heart bursts its banks,
spilling beauty and goodness.
I pour it out in a poem to the king,
shaping the river into words.
~Psalm 45:1 The Message

That's just how I felt this morning. My heart was literally bursting. I couldn't contain the praise and worship, the awe and humility I felt before the Lord. This has been happening more and more recently. And it's a miracle. I know that now like never before.

I grew up in a Christian home, raised by parents who love the Lord. I grew up going to church and being involved in some form of ministry or other. I grew up reading my Bible and praying. I accepted Jesus into my heart when I was just four years old and was baptized when I was seven. I was fifteen when I began to feel a passion for missions. I was eighteen when I realized that I had accepted Jesus as my Savior but had never completely surrendered to Him as Lord. That act of surrender ignited in me a desire to know Him more, to love Him deeper, to follow Him farther than I ever had before.

I didn't really know what those things meant then - to know Him, to love Him, to follow Him. I had no clue really. I still don't know very much. But I do know this: the fact that the desire for those things exists in my heart is a miracle. It is genuine, it is real. I know this because it has weathered storms and still continues to grow. And that's the huge thing to me. When I look back on my life I can see how that desire - miracle that it is - has grown so much more during the hard times, during the trials and difficulties, the unanswered questions, the hurt and seasons of heartache. Things that I would not have chosen, God has used in my life to accomplish this. The desire I have to know the Lord, to love Him and to follow Him is greater now, stronger now, not just in spite of the hard times, but because of them. That is a miracle to me.

All of my growing up was a wonderful foundation. I am so thankful for the heritage I have and the truths that were instilled in me from the time I was young. I would not be who I am today without those things. But the foundation is not worth very much if nothing is built on it, if it is not used as a stable starting point for a personal life. That building process started when I stepped out in to my relationship with the Lord, in full surrender to Him, acting on the spark of desire to know Him, love Him and follow Him - when I made my beliefs my own. And of course those beliefs had to be tested, the materials I was using to build, refined and tried. The storms came and will come in the future, but my foundation is built on the solid Rock and I will not be moved.

God is worthy to receive the honor and the glory. He alone is light and truth. He is holy and just and sovereign. He is compassionate and offers unfailing love to all those who seek Him. This I have come to know. And the more I come to know, the more I realize how small and unworthy and sinful I am...and how blessed I am to be His, to be able to know Him more, love Him deeper and follow Him farther. That truly is a miracle.

ALISHA

2009-08-25T21:45:00.005-05:00

Alisha, you make me smile. Every time I'm around you I instantly feel my sense of humor rejuvenated. I realize again that I really can laugh at just about anything. You're gorgeous and I hope you know how much I appreciate your friendship.

LAUREN

2009-08-25T20:54:00.006-05:00

Lauren, you're great. God gave me an unexpected friend in you and I will always be thankful. You have encouraged me when I needed it the most. You're beautiful. Thanks for being you.

The Hilton Effect

2009-08-25T11:36:00.012-05:00

I have a ton of pictures coming - I promise! I exceeded my photo upload quota for blogger and needed to get more. They said it might take 24 hours to go into affect; apparently they were right.

Anyways...stay tuned! I have a lot of writing posts in the works, too. So much to blog, so little time! Since I don't have pics right now, I thought I would post something I've been meaning to post for a while. It's not a very happy post, so I thought I would mix it in amongst all the ones that are.

It's about something I am calling "The Hilton Effect". It's a little difficult to explain, but - what the heck - I'll give it my best shot:

The story begins when I left my phone and my charger in our hotel room after checking out of the (Hilton) Hampton Inn on Padre Island. We were 30 minutes down the road when I remembered and called the hotel. The Courteous Gentleman at the front desk said that he would get my phone and charger from the room and mail it to me, no problem. He took my credit card information and I hung up, blissfully unaware of the saga that would unfold.

I called back about 30 minutes later just to ease my mind that he had been able to find my phone and charger. Call me paranoid, I don't care. The Courteous Gentleman said he had found them (he repeated this fact twice, something I find interesting) and reassured me again that he would ship them to me "today or tomorrow". I confirmed that he had my correct address. Needless to say, when I did not see any charges on my card or receive my phone by Sunday (never having had to have a hotel mail my phone and charger to me before, I only assumed that he would overnight it and neglected to ask - never, never assume, people!), I called the hotel again. I spoke to the same Courteous Gentleman and he said that he had mailed it standard mail. I was a little surprised that he hadn't sent it overnight and that he hadn't at least asked what I preferred, but I wasn't going to make a huge fuss (yet). I asked if he had a confirmation number so that I could track the shipment. He said he did but that he would have to go look for it. I wasn't too worried, so I told him not to worry about it either (first mistake - my motto now: when in doubt, always worry).

On Monday, mom had to call the hotel about something else and then also asked about my phone. She was told by the same Courteous Gentleman that he had put it in a box and had taken it to the post office himself (really? With no one to help you cross the street!?) two days before. He said that I should receive it 2-3 days from that date.

When I had not received my phone by Wednesday, I called the hotel again. Did I have the number memorized by then, you ask? I laugh and answer (with a small tinge of sarcasm): not yet but don't worry. I spoke with the Kind Lady this time. She said that the Courteous Gentleman had told her that he had mailed the phone the day before. I very nicely informed her that he had said he mailed it the previous Saturday so he couldn't possibly have mailed it yesterday. She said if that's what he had told me then she was sure that is what he had done. If only life were always that simple! She had much more faith in the Courteous Gentleman then I did at that point. Of course, the Kind Lady could not produce a confirmation number and told me, when I asked, that the manager would not be available until the next morning. As the situation progressed the Kind Lady was becoming not so kind. After my third phone conversation with the Kind Lady (what can I say, I always forget to ask the most important questions!), I decided to call Guest Services to try to get the matter resolved through them. They called the hotel and were given the same information that I had already been given (Really? No kidding!). I was told they would call back the next day, talk to the manager and then call me back.

I'm sure you can guess by now that I never received a call back. Dad tried the same routes to solve the issue. He was in contact with the hotel and Guest Services several times. He was given a call back number that didn't work, the manager of the hotel was always busy or unavailable, he was told my phone was shipped and that I should get it in 2-3 days (the longest 2-3 days in history, I might add, that are still going on as I type), but no one could produce a confirmation number. We never received phone calls back from the manager or Guest Services as they said we would. Our emails went unturned. Dad requested a full refund of the money for our stay because Hilton specifically says, "If you are not 100% satisfied, we don't expect you to pay". Oh, yes they do. It's all a fabrication, all a rouse to draw you in. Liar! Liiiiiarrrr! (said like the old lady on Princess Bride).

Hilton Corporate would not issue a refund because the Courteous Gentleman and the Kind Lady had confirmed that the phone was mailed - even though neither could produce a confirmation number. Our last contact with Hilton was on the following Tuesday - almost 2 weeks later -and I still had no phone. I still have no phone. Well, I have a phone - my old Motorola RZR. I got a new SIM card for it and I now have access to the outside world. I know it missed me.

The fact still remains: my family has been faithful patrons of Hilton for several years. In fact, I had already made reservations for another stay at a (Hilton) Hampton Inn for January. I have since cancelled those reservations. It was not just the hotel on Padre Island or the Courteous Gentleman or the Kind Lady who left a sour taste in our mouth, but everyone else we dealt with that wore the Hilton title as well. I guess they thought it was strange that someone would oppose being lied to and having their personal property stolen. Go figure. Needless to say I will never stay at a Hilton (of any variety) ever again. I don't care how nice their complimentary breakfast is.

Moral of the Story: never leave your phone and charger at a hotel and expect to see it again. Ahem...let me rephrase that: never leave your phone and charger at a Hilton hotel and expect to see it again.

So that's my explanation of the newly coined term "The Hilton Effect". It will leave you spinning for sure. It left me spinning. I'm recovering, but it's still hard to believe that there could be so many dishonest people in one single company...Courteous Gentleman and Kind Lady aside.

she's my sister and I love her...

2009-08-24T14:33:00.008-05:00

...yes, I do...yes, I do. Now I'm humming and I'm not really sure why. It just sounded like a song I guess.

But it's true. I love my sister. She's the best. She is caring in a deep, sensitive way. She is stylish - in fact, I owe any current semblance of stylishness pretty much to her alone. She loves adventure, but also embraces structure in life. She is strong - as in: she keeps going even when things get tough. She loves the Lord with all her heart. She is gorgeous and doesn't even try.

It's also true that today is my sister's birthday. Yes, the best, most caring, stylish, adventurous, strong, loving and gorgeous sister in the world is turning 21 years old. It's time to celebrate!

I am so proud of you, Lydia, and I love you!

girl time

2009-08-23T19:33:00.010-05:00

We had fun.

We always have fun.

For the last three years we have headed downtown for a photo shoot and evening out and we always have the best time.

200720082009
~~~~~~~~
We took almost 500 pictures in an hour and a half and had a blast doing it. Afterwards we were starving and headed over to Bolero's Spanish Grill & Tapas. We tried the fried goat cheese with honey, fried calamari, mango gazpacho and vegetable quesadillas. The restaurant had a neat atmosphere, all open on one end so that the seating spilled out onto the patio, very European.

After dinner we walked back towards some fountains near the canal and happened by a new candy store along the way. I felt like a kid again, filling up my bag with gummi worms and sour grapefruits and cherry cola gummy candies. It made me happy :) It made Lauren and Alisha happy too, I think...

When we got down towards the canal, one of the restaurants had a band playing live music - old classics that made us want to dance. The sun was setting and the breeze was so nice. Downtown is really a pretty hoppin' place and it was fun to just mix with the crowd and enjoy the evening.
~~~~~~
We ended the evening at Starbucks with a mocha frappucino that was excellent. We confiscated three big, comfy leather chairs and talked and laughed. A perfect ending to a perfect evening downtown. Thanks, girls, for being such great friends. I hope you had as much of a blast as I did talking and laughing and posing and goofing off and just being girls.More pics from our fabulous downtown photo shoot coming soon...

~whitney~

2009-08-22T00:27:00.006-05:00

Life Encapsulated

time for something new

Prairie Thunder Baking Company

Coffee: Anytime and Anywhere

a spring evening downtown

Il Dolce

spring evening

sweet dreams

"Dramatic B&W"

Dear Lydia...

Pei Wei

I walked into my apartment after a long day...

Angle Inspiration

What then shall be our response?

Which Wich

The Perfect Picture

Becky's Kitchen Magic

drinking coffee

Midtown Deli

Umbrellas, Sunshine, Mochas and Door Knobs

On Blogging

La Baguette: French Bakery Cafe & Bistro

- jump -

Passionberri

my beach cottage

"Sealed With You" Jewelry Giveaway

Someplace Else: Deli & Bakery

new beginnings

beach musings

*kiss*

inspiration for a new week

Our Long Weekend

Houston. Day 2.

Houston. Day 1.

houston. more coming.

To a New Year, To a New Decade

I Have a Dream

Micah 5:2-6

good times with an old friend

Christmas Fun

2009

Lydia in Guthrie

a territorial christmas

Ruby Sinatra

more coming...after I finish a final paper...

Christmas 2009

a thursday in december

photo post

~flare~

getting in the spirit

~homemade~

"Now we live with great expectation..."

[framing it]

this sums it up

3x's beautiful

behind the scenes

a scarf

L+B: love in the fall

sun worshippers & big city dwellers

all grown up

a post of friday goodness

with passion and eloquence

.poor man's toffee. marshmallows. quiet mondays.

wonderful world

fall

Tea Party 2009

a poem on friday

apologies

.prevented.

a little bit of life

i'd like to say i'm a thinker

US

ME

my flower children (spring cometh)

a tuesday field trip

the miracle

ALISHA

LAUREN

The Hilton Effect

she's my sister and I love her...

kiss