Among Shattered Glass

The Narrow Way

2007-02-01T15:07:00.000-08:00

Ok I know we aren't married yet, but May 5th isn't far away, so we are making our website dangit! Follow the link to our new website : http://nathanandnicole.wordpress.com/

Happy Birthday Nathan

2006-12-04T21:03:00.000-08:00

Nathan Christopher O'Brien, you are awesome!
I love you and thank God for you
Happy Birthday!

Recycled Air

2006-10-27T21:35:00.000-07:00

Two weekends ago I was able to attend the Grove Women's Trip. It was a great opportunity to get to know the women of the Grove and to spend time reflecting on the Lord and all his creation. About 30 of us left early Saturday morning and headed to Lost Valley, where we would be camping for the evening. By about noon we had camp set up and were heading off to our first hike, the Big Bluff trail in Hemmed in Hollow. It was about a 7 mile hike round trip with some great views.

As if that wasn't far enough, a few hiked about another 3 miles when we went to Whitaker Point or Hawksbill Crag. This is a pretty popular site for a very good reason. The view is awesome and there is something incredibly peaceful about sitting on the edge of that mountain.
As if that wasn't cool enough, while we were driving back to camp, we saw a huge elk! Needless to say, the weekend rocked!

Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."

John 8:12

Love You Madly

2006-09-29T16:22:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from our engagement hike! Enjoy!

And of course, the ring...

A Page Is Turned

2006-09-29T15:57:00.000-07:00

If you haven't heard the buzz, then this ones for you. Nathan and I are engaged! It all went down on Sunday, September 24, at the Withrow Springs State Park overlook. We settled on the overlook for lunch and to read the Word and pray. Then, the very romantic Nathan, asked me to dance and we did. It was so amazing. Afterward, we stood looking out at all God's creation and simply enjoying it. Then, Nathan asked me to close my eyes because he had a gift. Remember, even now I am completely clueless to what was about to happen. Finally, after a few seconds, he told me to open my eyes and turn around. And there was Nathan, down on one knee, with a ring box! He simply said to me, "Nicole Marie Rhodes, will you marry me?" I freaked! Half laughing, half crying, I asked, "What?! Are you for real? Yes!" and then leapt into Nathan's arms. Even now, I can't express the joy that I felt in that moment! It was absolutely awesome! Thanks to all who have been so incredibly supportive of Nathan and I and most importantly, thank you for your prayers. Keep 'em coming! We love all of you!

These Are a Few of My Favorite Things

2006-09-10T15:57:00.000-07:00

A bandana and a pair of sunglasses found laying in Gulley Park...

Six dozen red roses found lying on my front porch...

One large diamond and a key on a chain found in his mailbox...

Meeting my guy at the place of our first kiss...

These are a few of my favorite clues from the scavenger hunt that Nathan planned for me on Friday night. The significance of it all...our six month anniversary. Of course there was dinner afterward, fun and games to be had, a high speed car race, one crushed cell phone and one clueless, blindfolded girl being carried to who knows where.

That's right, just as I thought the night was ending, Nathan politely asked me to place a blindfold over my eyes while he drove through Fayetteville. Upon arriving at our destination, Nathan took me out of the car and then hoisted me over his shoulder and carried me. When we finally stopped, the blindfold was removed and to my complete surprise, Nathan had prepared a candlelit dance floor in the middle of Gulley Park. He asked me to dance and, of course, I accepted and we danced the night away. It was so romantic! So, here's to Nathan, for being awesome, for a wonderful night and for sweeping me off my feet once again. You are the best and I love you!

Love Addict

2006-09-04T00:02:00.000-07:00

This guy is my favorite...

I love you Nate! These past six months have been fantabulous....thanks for being awesome!

Yearn

2006-08-31T20:11:00.000-07:00

Yearn
Performed by Shane & Shane

holy design
this place in time
that i might seek and find my God
my God

Lord i want to yearn for You
i want to burn with passion
over You and only You
Lord i want to yearn

Your joy is mine
yet why am i fine
with all my singing and bringing grain
in light of Him

oh You give life and breath
through Him You give all things
in Him we live and move
that's why i sing

acts 17:25-28, hebrews 12:28-29

Saved By Grace

2006-08-03T20:29:00.000-07:00

Learning to face the truth is hard. I have come face to face with who God is and who I say He is. Are they one and the same? Not always, and for this very reason, I am confronted with the reality of my life and it's purpose. What is my potential? Am I living up to it? And more importantly, is this the place that God has called me to? How do I decrease myself and increase Him? I find myself faced with many questions and few answers. I know that the word says that Christ is my stronghold, my strength in times of need, my Shepherd so I shall not want and my Father who loves me. But does my life reflect these truths? I am reminded of Oaxaca and a song that grew dear to my heart deep in those mountains. It is modeled after Psalm 145, which I encourage you to read, and it says:

The Lord is gracious and slow to anger. He is rich in love and He is good to all. All who call on Him in truth He is near to and He hears their cry and He saves them.

Psalm 145 goes on to speak of the Lord's compassion and His faithfulness to all. I hear these words and I am in awe of the grace that I have received. It is in the midst of my failure, that I am confronted with the strangest truth of all: that God still loves just as I am and He continues to bless me regardless of whether or not I deserve it. For this I am grateful and very humbled.

The Quiet Things That No One Ever Knows

2006-07-18T09:55:00.000-07:00

Once again, Terra and I are embarking on another concert adventure. Brand New is playing in Lawrence tonight. Heck yes! They rock and are one of our favorite bands. This will be our fourth time to see them live and we are pumped. Hopefully the show will be great! See ya on the flip side!

Am I Wrong?

2006-07-18T09:24:00.000-07:00

I think that it is safe to say I am the worst blogger ever, being as I have not written in almost three months. I could tell you that nothing significant is going on, but that would be a lie. In fact, the past three months have been very eventful, educational and life changing. I won't bore you with the details now, but hopefully I'll get a chance to share the important moments with you.

Slow Motion

2006-04-30T00:43:00.000-07:00

"There's nothing like the deep breaths after laughing that hard. Nothing in the world like a sore stomach for the right reasons. It was that great."

I think that quote pretty much sums up my Saturday night with the CG gang...thanks for being awesome guys!

Breathless

2006-04-27T09:37:00.000-07:00

For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, for Jerusalem's sake I will not remain quiet, till her righteousness shines out like the dawn, her salvation like a blazing torch.

The nations will see your righteousness, and all kings your glory; you will be called by a new name that the mouth of the LORD will bestow.

You will be a crown of splendor in the LORD's hand, a royal diadem in the hand of your God.

No longer will they call you Deserted, or name your land Desolate. But you will be called Hephzibah, and your land Beulah; for the LORD will take delight in you, and your land will be married.

As a young man marries a maiden, so will your sons marry you; as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will your God rejoice over you.

I have posted watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem; they will never be silent day or night. You who call on the LORD, give yourselves no rest, and give him no rest till he establishes Jerusalem and makes her the praise of the earth.

The LORD has sworn by his right hand and by his mighty arm: "Never again will I give your grain as food for your enemies, and never again will foreigners drink the new wine for which you have toiled; but those who harvest it will eat it and praise the LORD, and those who gather the grapes will drink it in the courts of my sanctuary."

Pass through, pass through the gates! Prepare the way for the people. Build up, build up the highway! Remove the stones. Raise a banner for the nations.

The LORD has made proclamation to the ends of the earth: "Say to the Daughter of Zion, 'See, your Savior comes! See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him.' "

They will be called the Holy People, the Redeemed of the LORD; and you will be called Sought After, the City No Longer Deserted.

Isaiah 62

Undone

2006-04-27T09:31:00.000-07:00

As I was walking along a trail, I stopped to rest at a bench and saw this saying:

"Practice random kindness and unconcious acts of beauty"

I was struck by this and began to ponder what it looked like; even now I am still considering how to reflect this in my own life.

I'm Still Here

2006-04-21T20:24:00.000-07:00

Whoa...Where has the time gone? It has officially been forever since I last posted and I know, you are all sitting at home waiting for this moment. As if! I thought that since none of you wanted to read a novel about the last two months, I would write a top ten list of the things that have happened in my life, in no particular order. So, here it is...The Top Ten...oh wait, Top Seven List of Things That Have Occurred in Nicole's Life.

1. On Valentine's Day, the guys in my community group dressed up, cooked us dinner, passed out long stem red roses, and swept us off our feet with some swing dancing. It was awesome! Thanks guys!

2. I celebrated my 23rd birthday with some of the greatest people ever...my friends. Not to mention we went to Red Robin, heck yes!

3. I started dating the coolest guy ever! He's truly an amazing man of God and a tremendous blessing to my life! Thank you Lord! And Nathan O'Brien...you rock!

4. During the last weekend of spring break, two of the greatest people ever tied the knot. We traveled to Little Rock to see Cindy and Jason get married. It was the most awesome wedding I have ever been too. Not only did the bride look amazing...but the entire community group was there and we danced the night away. Literally, we danced till the bride and groom left and then, we danced some more.

5. I survived the great tornado of 2006. It was pretty crazy! Our power went out till the next day and we had to take shelter. Once the storm passed and we climbed out from behind the mattress in the hallway, things were okay. Or so we thought. Apparently we were right in the torndado's path and it just jumped our house. We survived with no damage, but some of the neighbors weren't so lucky. Also, later that night, a herd of cows was reported roaming the highway. Luckily the cows found the off ramp before any cars were destroyed.

6. I saw Death Cab for Cutie in concert. It was awesome! I was completely in awe of DCFC and the guy behind us was so moved that he started crying. By that I mean he was sobbing and "singing" at the top of his lungs. Needless to say, I love DCFC, for sure!

7. I went to KC for a concert. It rocked! Or maybe it was the company that rocked! Needless to say, little sisters are awesome!

So, that's all I can think of right now. Man, are you guys still awake? Lol...I think it's safe to say that I'm back on the blogger train. My only question is where are you guys?

Wha' Happened?

2006-02-18T13:13:00.000-08:00

I guess winter finally decided to show up...unfortunately, I'm allergic to snow and cold weather. If you need me, I'll be on the couch watching movies.

Have a great snowy weekend!

Needle In The Hay

2006-02-09T16:05:00.000-08:00

The Coolest People You'll Ever Meet

2006-02-06T18:51:00.000-08:00

Snack for girls night: $3.85. Movie: $4.75. Hanging out with these girls: priceless!

I'll Catch You

2006-02-06T17:20:00.000-08:00

This past week has been completely awesome! I really feel like the Lord is transforming my heart, my mind and inevitably, my life. I've come to lean on Him more than ever and I'm really seeing the difference; from the big aspects of life, right down to the smallest detail. I've had the opportunity to spend time with old friends, spark some new friendships and brush up on others. Ultimately, the Lord has shown me how blessed I am to be surrounded by such awesome followers of Christ. I also realized this past week how valuable each day is and how, to often, we take that for granted. One of the best verses that I've read recently and that has made an impression on my heart is Psalm 27:1, 3:

"The Lord is my light and my salvation-whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life-of whom shall I be afraid? Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident."

I was really struck when I read this verse, knowing that Lord wasn't the stronghold of my life at the time and that I truly desired Him to be. It seems that since that point, I've been able to use the truth of that verse almost everyday to overcome trials, fears, and any anxiety that I've faced. Isn't that awesome? Just like Hebrews 4:12 says:

"For the word of God is living and active..."

I'm just thankful that I finally realized that.

Your Eyes Open

2006-01-19T19:16:00.000-08:00

The new year has come and gone. Much has happened since my last update, more than I care to bore you with. But rest assure, there was much eating, sleeping, opening of presents and hanging out with loved ones. Now, almost 20 days into '06 I find myself staring at an open textbook and wondering if May will ever come. I'm ready to graduate, despite the fact that I have no idea what the future holds. It's funny that almost 15 years ago I would have told you without hesitation that I was going to be a marine biologist, work at Sea World and spend the rest of my life swimming with whales. But now, things have changed. Now, I wait for an answer, for an open door, for a sign of where and what I am suppose to do with the rest of my life. I know this much, I want it to mean something. I want it to fulfilling and I want to look back in another 15 years and smile, knowing that my time was well spent. But for now I wait...

Get Down Girl, Go Head Get Down

2005-12-19T14:02:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to wish Terra Dawn a Happy Birthday!! You're the best and I hope you have a great birthday!

Honestly

2005-12-14T21:19:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Terra for this comic, it made me laugh.

Unfortunately, it was one of those days!

Children of the Revolution

2005-12-03T12:32:00.000-08:00

We got a puppy!! He is a 6 week old Sheltie and his name is Jaxson. He enjoys sleeping, eating, biting your ankles, and hopping, yes I said hopping, around the backyard.

So Contagious

2005-11-14T22:36:00.000-08:00

It's time for another glimpse into Nicole's past...so hang on, cause this one is deep!

Yes! Baby pictures! Okay, I especially like this picture for a couple of reasons. First, check out my sweet ride. Pink wagon? You know it...and no I didn't take it off of any sweet jumps...too bad! Secondly, I love that fact that I'm completely chillin' with my teddy bear! Third, I'm wearing those footsie things that I absolutely hated! Man...I had life made! When I look at this picture, I often wonder, what was I thinking at this very moment? Maybe I was tired, or hungry, or maybe I was comtemplating some deep philosophical idea. Either way, I think that I was completely content and relaxed. Yeah, I know, it's hard to think of me as relaxed, but this picture is living proof that it's possible for me not to be so up-tight. Okay, so now another question...what is one of your favorite childhood memories? Mine...hmm, I think it was just playing outside and enjoying every ounce of sunlight I could squeeze out of the day. Your turn!

Kingdom Come

2005-11-14T22:25:00.000-08:00

Today, my friend Terra made me an awesome cd! Seriously, it was a perfect soundtrack to a perfect drive home on a perfect autumn day! I know that many of you have received a Terra Mix cd and expressed your gratitude, but seriously, is one post really enough to express how stinkin' awesome Terra's mixes are? I think not. Terra, you really have a gift and I am, on a deep personal level, grateful that you have shared your music with me...it has changed my life! So, here's to Terra!

We Are

2005-11-10T11:05:00.000-08:00

Raise your hand if you wore camo as a kid! Seriously, how embarrassing is this photo. My mom insisted on sending this to me one year, apparently as a reminder of what a huge dork I am. Lol! Check out my shades...talk about being fashionable. I would definitely get some looks if I wore those shades while driving. Oh the insanity! Question: what's one of your most embarrassing childhood stories? Dare you write them on the blog?

At Least I'm Known For Something

2005-11-07T23:48:00.000-08:00

The two month hiatus is over and it's back to the blog for me. While I've been gone, so much has happened. I won't bore you with all the details, but let me assure, my time away has been action packed and unforgettable. At the moment, the details seem to escape me, but know this, my friends are some of the most amazing people I have ever met. Whether it's a quick trip to Tulsa, OK for an awesome David Crowder concert, a weekend camp trip, a 2 mile night hike in search of buried treasure, a campfire sing along, including the infamous "Taco Song", or a crazy fun girls night spent building igloos and learning the facts of life, let me assure you of one thing, my friends will rock your socks off!

On a more serious note, the leaves around Fayetteville are freaking awesome! I must say that fall in NWA is one of the most beautiful and breath taking sites I have ever seen. Such bright yellows, oranges, and reds and every mixture in between. If you don't know what I'm talking about, well, just know that you're missing out. I think I feel a new favorite season coming on! Question: If you could be any season, what would you be and why?

Words I Know, But Can't Pronounce

2005-09-17T00:04:00.000-07:00

Commonly mis-pronounced words (a collection of words that my friends and I just can't pronounce):

Cologne
Boise
Defribulator
Lion
Drawing

Stupid Things I Said/Heard/Saw-Part II

2005-09-16T23:59:00.000-07:00

1. "Maybe he doesn't have a name."
RESPONSE: "Uhh, when was the last time you met a guy that didn't have a name?"

2. "Did you get 50 down?"
RESPONSE: "Uh-uh...doodads"

3. "Your brother what?"
RESPONSE: Bewildered look

4. "Look at the fog. It's like a sea of hands, a sea of people."
RESPONSE: NSYNC!!

Wipe That Smile Off Your Face

2005-09-13T23:03:00.000-07:00

This post is dedicated to the "Stupid Things I Said/Heard/Saw This Weekend".

1. "and Jesus, I mean he was like 33... I don't know how old he would be now though."
RESPONSE: "Um... 2038???"
2. "It's like Cujo but with Dinosaurs."
RESPONSE: "So then it's not like Cujo, but more like Jurassic Park"

If you have more, please feel free to comment.

This Is The Countdown

2005-09-13T22:43:00.000-07:00

Remember when you were a kid and you caught a cold? And how your parents had to practically force the cough syrup down your throat? And how, no matter what flavor it was, it tasted completely awful and made you want to gag? Okay, maybe that was just my personal experience with cough syrup, but regardless, taking that awful tasting stuff was never one of my favorites. The other day I was feeling pretty bad and I finally resorted to taking NyQuil. As Belinda (my adopted mom) filled up the tablespoon and slowly lifted it to my mouth, my little sister, Keri, abruptly yelled, "Wait! What are you doing?" I looked over at her and simply replied, "Sometimes, in life, there are things you just have to do." And that was the day I died. No kidding, but the NyQuil did taste awful and it burned all the way down. Blech! Although that whole experience was far more dramatic than it should have been, it brought me to a simple conclusion. Often times, the things that will make us feel better are often the things that are hardest to endure. Take for instance, Peptobismo. Oh yea! The pink paste. Just saying the name makes me choke. I think I would rather have a stomach ache all night than feel that cold, slimey paste run down the back of my throat. Besides, one of two things can result from taking Peptobismo: a. you throw up and then feel better or b. you just feel better. Either way, I think I'll refrain from drinking anything that is cold, pink and tastes like chalk.

Someday You Will Be Loved

2005-09-02T00:16:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love the new Death Cab for Cutie Cd. Thank you Terra for influencing me to listen to good music! Well, week two of school is almost over and I'm already counting down the day until graduation. Yes, I'm actually going to graduate in May, I can hardly believe it. I got my first email about pre-graduation checks today and I almost cried. Not really, I'm not that sensitive! :P

For anyone wondering, my new job is going great! I work with 4-6 year olds everyday and let me tell you, they are kicking my butt. Who knew that a game of Simon Says could go on for more than 20 minutes. Umm...Simon Says "Miss Nicole is tired!" This past week I've played all the classic games: Red Light, Green Light, Simon Says, Freeze Tag and the list goes on. I really feel blessed to be able to work with these kids and hopefully, in the end, they will have learned as much from me as I am learning from them.

I took a Longevity Test today in my Personal Health and Safety class and apparently I'm going to live until I'm 94 years old. Did you also know that flossing can help prevent heart disease? Well it can, so you should floss! I love learning all sorts of weird, random health facts...seriously, it's so interesting. I know, I'm a huge dork, but hey, I can't help it. I love health classes. In other news, my First Responder/First Aid professor stopped me in the hall today and began questioning me about my weight. Apparently she thinks I am anorexic or just trying to starve myself. Apparently she didn't see the chocolate bar and soda pop in my hands as I returned from the vending machine. Hi, my name is Nicole and I've been a junk food addict for the past 22 years! Ahh, sometimes life is funny like that.

Kicking the Lights

2005-08-21T22:41:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the first day of school and for once, I'm not that nervous. I guess after all of these years I've realized that the first day of school isn't a big deal. Besides I'm a senior, again, and I know a lot of the professors and how things work. I'm sure that tomorrow will primarily consist of "get-to-know each other" games, filling out my personal information onto an index card and reading syllabi. On another note, tomorrow is the first full day at my new job. So, that should be an adventure in itself. Maybe after tomorrow I'll have something interesting to write about.

The Symphony Of Blase

2005-08-16T23:20:00.000-07:00

Things I do not understand:

Midnight breakfast cravings.
Math.
The title of this blog.
Having a good sense of humor.
Makeup.
Guitar rhythms.
The effects of mold on household objects.
Ex-boyfriends.
Anything to do with Chemistry or Physics.
My siblings.
My former boss.
The girl who cut in line, in front of me, at the Charlotte Russe register and then proceeded to cuss me out, once in Spanish and then again in English.
Cooking.
Most jokes.
Life in general.
Myself.
How I misspelled "ate" in my last post.
Parking at the U of A.

Make My Heart Attack

2005-08-10T23:23:00.000-07:00

Today I had orientation at my new job! It was pretty simple, being as all we did was listen to a lady talk and eat pizza. Following that, I took an Adult CPR and AED class. I felt like I was in seventh grade health again, except there were no embarrassing diagrams about human anatomy or any abstinence videos with DC Talk. We watched one of those situational videos with the "great" actors in them and then we practiced on our own "Annie" doll. We even got to learn how to use a defibrillator, which is basically a machine that shocks the victim, just like on one of those ER shows. Anyhow, after a few hours of yelling, "Annie, Annie are you okay?" and trying to resuscitate our dummies, we took the big exam, and I aced it!

I think Jewel has a big vendetta against her father, but I'm not sure. This "Daddy" song is really morbid.

My family was watching "Hitch" when I got home. Thinking back, I really liked that movie. Maybe because I'm a big dork and it wouldn't surprise me if I did something stupid on a date like drop mustard all over my shirt. Another good reason why you should never eat crab legs or barbecue on a first date. But that's another blog for another day.

She's Gonna Break Soon

2005-08-06T01:02:00.000-07:00

There are a few things in life that frustrate me and they are, in no particular order:

Getting off at 12:15 am because I'm stuck at work training my replacement.
Getting off at 12:15 and being hungry.
The snoring coming from the next room.
My brother parking in the middle of the driveway, totally elimating any possiblity of me parking close to the house.
The fact that the blog time is never correct and everytime I post I have to change it.
Working 7 days straight.
Eating crab legs.

I'm sure there are others, but it's time for me to eat dinner or breakfast, umm...I'm not sure it's, whatever meal is at one o'clock in the morning.

So Impossible

2005-08-05T11:05:00.000-07:00

Single, white female seeks single, white male comparable to Chris Carrabba. Tattoos not required. Must come with a guitar and good vocal skills. Must like to write love songs and sing them to me. Must be charming and witty and incrediably attractive. Must also have a good sense of fashion. Must be hardworking, honest, loyal and patient. For more information, comment on blog.

The blog above is merely a joke; a sad attempt by myself to be witty. But you knew that! Besides, anyone interested in dating me would be subject to pain and torture by the "best friends" and would have to under-go numerous tests including, but not limited to, a drug test, a lie detector test, a music history test, a biblical history test, etc. All participants must be 21 or older. Perferably 23 or older. Contest ends 03/04/13.

Aware Rust and Repair

2005-07-30T00:06:00.000-07:00

Okay, you have to create the soundtrack of your life. What songs do you pick? And dare I ask, but why do you pick those songs?

Clarity

2005-07-27T23:59:00.000-07:00

Another boring night at work. There's nothing more relaxing than coming home and hanging out with a few of my favorite guys like John, Jack, Amos (one of my new friends) and the guys from Coldplay. Seriously, where have you guys been all my life? I don't know why it's such a shock to me that I like "mellow" music, especially since I've loved almost every slow song on almost every cd I've ever bought, but I'm absolutely taken aback by it. It's so relaxing and beautiful. I'd just like to thank all those responsible for introducing me to "good music", you know who you are and, in about 30 years, my kids will too and they'll be grateful. If you know any more great "mellow" artists let me know...I'm all ears!

Daughters

2005-07-25T22:45:00.000-07:00

Ever since my sister's wedding, I've been pondering the whole idea of the father/daughter dance. If I was getting married, I woulnd't have any idea of what song to play for that dance, or for any other dance for that matter. So, if you were getting married what songs would you choose for your a.) first dance with your spouse and b.) your father/daughter dance (or for all you guys, your mother/son dance)? I'm telling you right now, I'm running a blank here, but I'd like to hear everyone else's selections.

Show Me The Money

2005-07-13T23:35:00.000-07:00

My terrible 11 hour shift at the theatre is finally over! Although I spent most of the day doing incredibly pointless tasks like putting cardboard standees together and earning embarrassing nicknames, I'm still exhausted. Meanwhile I spent the last 3 hours of my shift filling out an endless number of applications. Not only did I end the night with a hand cramp, but I also gained a bit of hope that someone, somewhere is desperate enough to hire a young college student in need of a new job. Keep those prayers coming guys! Tomorrow I'm back in the drivers seat, turning all those applications in and desperately seeking an escape from the Malco.

I'm Sorry I'm Leaving

2005-07-12T23:56:00.000-07:00

I spent the day slowly migrating from the Bentonville area to the Fayetteville area in search of a new job. Along the way I met a few odd ducks and managed to pick up 9 applications and drop off 2 resumes. I then ventured to the mall and bought a dress! Yeah, crazy I know, but I have to have one to wear to my sister's wedding. Then, as if I wasn't acting crazy enough, I bought Chacos. I'm a cool kid now! I'd like to say I got something done today, but I'm not quite sure losing your mind and spending money is exactly my idea of "getting stuff done".

There's a wedding dress in my closet. It's my sister's. She's getting married in about 10 days! I can't believe it's all finally happening. Not to mention that I have a speaking part in the wedding. For those of you who don't know me, I tend to not have the most eloquent speaking abilities, in that I stutter when I get nervous or excited. To say the least, I'm nervous about my part in the wedding. I mean, it's not like it's one of the most important days of my sister's life or anything, so no pressure right? Ha! So the next couple of weeks are sure to be hectic around the house.

Life is still confusing. Finding a job is still frustrating. And realizing that my own selfish desires hurt other people is still painful. I think one of the most challenging things in life is progressing, getting better, moving forward and then stumbling, falling down, taking two steps back and realizing that there is always room for improvement. Thank God for the strength, grace, and mercy He provides that allows us to get back up and try again.

Betrayal Is A Symptom

2005-07-11T20:50:00.000-07:00

You know you're a hick when: you spend your night off shucking corn and discussing what vegetables are growing in the garden. Either that, or you're just a huge dork!

Sugar, We're Goin Down

2005-07-11T17:08:00.000-07:00

For those of you who haven't heard, I'm back from Dallas. The trip was very relaxing, but not all that exciting. However, I got to spend a lot of quality time with my dad which was very cool.

In the week that I have been back home, I've realized several things, one of which is the fact that I greatly dislike working at the movie theatre. So, I'm currently looking for a new place of employment. Along the way, I suddenly realized that I have no idea what I want to do with the rest of my life. I mean, I know that someday, I'd like to fall in love and get married and have a few kids along the way. But as far as my career, I'm so confused. I've narrowed it all down and decided that one, this time in my life is a test of faith, and two, this is what growing up is all about.

On a lighter note, life couldn't be better. Besides the whole employment ordeal, I'm very happy with my so called life. My friends and family are wonderful. I love my community group and church. And I've discovered the simply pleasures behind flip flops, face wash and tank tops. If you don't know what I'm talking about, well, then you're just missing out.

The Undeveloped Story

2005-06-27T23:56:00.000-07:00

I recently went to a baby shower that was thrown for a girl I grew up with. As part of the shower, the hostess passed around a journal in which we were to write our "parenting advice" for the parents-to-be. While I'd like to consider myself a fairly educated person, I am far from ready to give anyone parenting advice, so I didn't. But as I drove home, I began to think of a million different things I could have put. I also began to wonder what everyone else, if placed in that position, would have said. So, if you had to give one piece of advice to some parents-to-be, what would your advice be?

Nice Guys Finish Last

2005-06-13T23:01:00.000-07:00

I'm on a quest! Terra, Christina and I thought it would be cool to try and read the Top 100 American Novels and I must admit, I'm intimidated. Terra and Christina are reading machines and me, well, I'm a little flakey when it comes to reading. But I'm not one to admit defeat either, so I'm up for the challenge. I just hope I can keep up with it. So far, 18 pages into the first book. Don't expect another blog for a while!

Head On Collision

2005-06-07T00:57:00.000-07:00

The windows are down and the wind is blowing through your hair. An un-identifiable rap song is pumping through the speakers as you roll up to the red light. The guys in the car next to you are mesmerized by your stunning beauty and can hardly take their eyes off of you. As the light turns green, you hit the gas, leaving everyone else in the dust. Funny how an expensive car catches everyones eyes. I swear, I could have three eyes and horns, but if I was driving a nice car, every guy would stare at me, I mean, stare at the car. Still, there is something exhilirating about being in a fancy car.

Oh my gosh, you're like totally freaking out right now. Your like so wanting to be friends with us now that we've spent a saturday night having a photo shoot with someone else's car in some random parking lot. Just kidding, we borrowed the car from one of HK Roger's "friends" and we weren't having a photo shoot, we were just...uh, wasting film on the digital camera...ah, ok, we're dorks, but the night was quite an adventure. I'll spare you the details, but you can find out more about our wild night on the town on Christina's blog.

So, the moral of this story is, cool cars do not make you drop dead gorgeous or overwhelmingly popular, but they can be make a boring saturday night into one crazy adventure.

One Step Closer to Life

2005-06-04T01:33:00.000-07:00

1 Corinthians 2:9 says:

"As it is written: No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him".

I think that's beautiful.

View From Heaven

2005-06-03T22:54:00.000-07:00

Something to think about...

"What if the gospel of Jesus was an invitation to know God? Now I have to tell you, all of this frightened me a bit because I had always assumed a kind of anonymity with God...But if the gospel of Jesus is relational; that is, if our brokeness will be fixed, not by our understanding of theology, but by God telling us who we are, then this would require a kind of intimacy of which only heaven knows. Imagine, a Being with a mind as great as God's, with feet like trees and a voice like rushing wind, telling you that you are His cherished creation. It's kind of exciting if you think about it. Earthly love, I mean the stuff I was trying to get by sounding smart, is temporal and slight so that it has to be given again and again in order for us to feel any sense of security; but God's love, God's voice and presence, would instill our souls with such affirmation we would need nothing more and would cause us to love other people so much we would be willing to die for them."

From Donald Miller's Searching For God Knows What

In This World

2005-05-21T17:52:00.000-07:00

Today my sister graduated from college and my brother graduated from high school. Talk about a busy day. We're having a party for both of them tonight. Being the social butterfly that I am, I have retreated to my room and now sit writing to you.

Work was very boring day. It's only day three of the Star Wars mania and already I'm exhausted. I honestly don't think I could spend one more hour standing on my feet. I desperately need a vacation from everything. Although, it looks like I'm stuck at work at least until the end of June.

On another interesting note, Terra and I found some funny ads in the classifieds. Take this one for example:

LOST: Dog, Black, Chinese Pug, red collar, $100. reward, & Tom cat, grey/white, black
collar.

So, you find the dog and get a $100 bucks and a cat?? Or how about this one:

FREE PUPPY: mix breed, black, very cute, lab/weenie dog, abandoned by owner.

Okay, a lab/weenie mix?? How did that happen!?!? I've never taken a class on dog breeds or anything, but I imagine that that is a pretty weird looking pup.

San Dimos High School Football Rules!

2005-05-17T02:15:00.000-07:00

Every year I go through the same routine. School ends and I begin staying up to all hours of the night. Last night, I watched the Aron Ralston story on TLC. Amazing stuff! I can't even fathom being in that man's shoes. Geez...just thinking about it gives me the chills. Or maybe I'm just cold because it naturally gets cold when the sun goes down. (Not a fact I learned on TLC: The Learning Channel).

Anyhow, tonight I got home from work, ate dinner and left within the hour to go to the Arend Arts Center. My youngest sister had a choir concert, which was shocking since I didn't even know she was in choir. Anyhow, during the last portion of the concert, all the girls came out dressed in 80's clothing and sang "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" and the famous song from Top Gun, ya know the "Take My Breath Away" song. Anyhow, they kept talking about these "classic" songs and how the early 80's were so hip and cool and so on. For the first time in my life, I felt semi-old. Not that I think I'm old, but I can't believe I was actually born during a decade that people now look back on and make fun of. Does that make sense? Probably not, but it seems this blog is just one large melting pot of words, so I suppose it doesn't matter.

At about 11:00pm, I decided to eat again and watch National Treasure, which was not a bad movie. And now, I'm sitting here, rambling on about the pathetic and boring life I now lead. I'm sure I'll sleep till noon tomorrow and crawl out of bed even more tired than I am now. Maybe I'll look for a car tomorrow. Not having your own vehicle is really a sad thing and wrecking the only vehicle that you did have is not much better. I guess that's life. Which has been flying by awfully fast.

My brother graduates from high school this weekend. I can't even begin to express the excitement I have for sitting through graduations. All I can say is thank goodness for Gameboy Advance. But seriously, I'm really proud of my brother and I just hope that he knows that. Funny how our rooms are right next to each other, but we're both so busy that I probably won't even see him again until his graduation day on Saturday. Darn work! Especially since Star Wars is coming out in two days. We're going to be so busy and there are going to be hundreds of Star Wars fanatics flooding the theatre. I'm so going to laugh at all the people camping out. I honestly can not think of one movie that I would sleep outside for. Can you? I guess when you're passionate about something, you're willing to do anything. Including sleeping in a tent in front of a movie theatre. Speaking of sleep, I think it's about that time...

Sink to the Bottom

2005-05-04T21:28:00.000-07:00

I thought this was an interesting article.

Long Way Home

2005-05-03T20:21:00.000-07:00

"For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks."- Matthew 12:34

Carry This Picture

2005-05-03T16:24:00.000-07:00

My youngest brother brought home his yearbook today. The two of us spent almost 30 minutes thumbing through it and point out all the people that we knew. It reminded me of when I was in high school and junior high. It use to be so awesome to get yearbook and then carry then with you for the remainder of the school year. So much time was spent during lunch and in the halls getting so-and-so's signature and thinking of something original to write in your best friends yearbook. Somehow, no matter how much thought you put into a yearbook entry there was still the "Hope you have a great summer!" and the "Science class was so much fun!" comments. And mostly, the goal was to get as many signatures as you possibly could, because somehow this deemed you "coolest kid at school" or "the greatest person ever". If only your success in life was based on how many yearbook signatures you got. So far the only thing I've used my yearbook for, is to look back and see what a huge dork I used to be. Not that I'm not a dork now, but I've definitely toned it down a notch, or at least enough to blend in.

Warning!

2005-05-03T11:40:00.000-07:00

The following is random health tip. If you have been know to have a bad reaction to these, such as completely ignoring the person reporting the facts, please stop reading now. Thank you!

So, one of my professors always passes around a tin of peppermints before her tests. According to her, and a few websites that I checked out, peppermint has been know to stimulate the brain and boost alterness. So, before you take your finals, you may want to grab a bag of mints to help you out.

In other news, sniffing peppermint while exercising will not help you lose weight or develop muscle. However, the scent of peppermint may ease stomach ailments, promote good digestion, ease driving frustration or simply put you in a good mood. Not to mention it leaves your breath minty fresh!

These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things

2005-04-19T19:58:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture of my baby cow, which is my new favorite pet and definitely the most unusual one I have ever owned!

Boom Goes The Dynamite!

2005-04-12T20:50:00.000-07:00

This is a video that one of my friends showed me. Apparently this was only this guy's second time in front of the camera and they must have had teleprompter problems or something...I felt so bad for him, but I couldn't help but laugh. What's one of your most embarrassing moments? This was definitely his.

When The Rain Comes

2005-04-05T20:05:00.000-07:00

What are some of your fears? For me, it's the weather, especially thunderstorms. While these events are magnificent and at times beautiful displays of God's power, they scare me. I seriously remember being so afraid of a storm that I spent an evening huddled in a corner, shivering, and fearing the worst. I mean, logically, what am I afraid of? Maybe it's the thought of a massive flood occuring, water filling my house and being unable to escape. Or lighting striking my house and the building bursting into flames. But honestly, sitting here at the computer, with the rain pouring down, I have nothing to fear, yet in the corner of my mind, I'm afraid. The thunder continues to roar as sit here and ponder my fears.

"The only thing we have to fear is fear it'self - nameless,

unreasoning, unjustified, terror which paralyzes needed

efforts to convert retreat into advance."

FDR - First Inaugural Address, March 4, 1933

If You Ever Need Somebody to Love You

2005-03-30T19:55:00.000-08:00

Check out Mae's latest CD...I've really enjoyed listening to it! You can find out about the band here:

http://www.whatismae.com/main2.html

If anyone totally loves these guys...they are coming near here (i.e Kansas City, OKC or for those extreme fans, Dallas) and I really want to see them live!!!

He Won't Sleep Better Alone

2005-03-23T21:38:00.000-08:00

I honestly think that J.D. Salinger is perhaps one of my favorite authors of all time. That or C.S Lewis. Anyhow, it took about 2 years to finally read The Catcher in the Rye but I loved it and I loved Holden. But show me a girl who doesn't. The I read Franny and Zooey. I also loved it. I'm not sure what it is about Salinger's books. They just seem to captivate me from the moment I begin reading. I don't know, but I continue to love every book of his. Today I picked up Nine Stories (which I can't put down) and Raise High The Roof Beam, Carpenters and Seymour: An Introduction. I'm hoping that these books are as good as the others I have read.

Just Shut Up, Shut Up...

2005-03-18T22:35:00.000-08:00

I often wonder when I will finally learn the art of keeping my mouth shut. Literally. I just don't get it. I mean, I think I'm a decently smart person, but when it comes to conversing with others, my brain just shuts off. Usually the conversations will be very interesting or hilarious and then there is that moment when I speak. Uhh..and the awkward silence that follows is deafening. It is at that moment that I realize a.) I didn't think about what I was going to say b.) People probably think I'm an idiot and c.) I wish someone else had told that joke. I mean, looking back on the situations (every day of my life, excluding the one day in which I was genuinely funny) they are pretty funny, but man, do I feel like I huge dork in those moments. Things to work on: Thinking more, talking less.

Where My Girls At?

2005-03-06T20:25:00.000-08:00

These are my bestest friends ever and they throw rockin' birthday "parties".

Spectacular, Spectacular

2005-03-06T11:08:00.000-08:00

So, this weekend was my birthday weekend and it was totally awesome! On Friday, my actual birthday, the girls and I (see our website at http://triplets01.blogspot.com) went out to eat at Noodles. I love Italian food! Then we headed over to our friend's house to hang out and play some board games. It was a blast, although, there were several controversies during our game of Scattegories :) After that, we girls spent the night at Terra's house. Little did I know that the next morning held quite a surprise. On Saturday morning I woke up thinking that I was going to work, but finding out that instead, the girls and I, Ro and Fidel and Scott, were all heading to Tulsa to check out the aquarium. I was seriously surprised. The whole situation was far too long for me to re-tell, but I was pretty confused.

On the way to Tulsa, Ro's car started messing up and he and Fidel had to go home. We all missed them and wished they could have been there with us. So, the rest of us continued on to Tulsa and the aquarium. It was awesome!! We got there right in time to watch the divers feed the fish and pet some sting ray and sharks. It was a lot of fun.

Anyhow, my birthday weekend, thus far, has been the best birthday ever. Seriously, I even got a little teary-eyed. So, thanks guys for such an awesome birthday weekend. I can't explain how much it meant to me. I love you guys!!!

Passing Through Unconscious States

2005-03-01T12:05:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that it's already March. Seriously, is time flying by or what? However, I'm pumped that my birthday is in three days. I'm not saying that I'm old or anything, but I just can't believe that this will be my 22nd birthday.

Anyhow...I guess this past year has been pretty great and definitely a period of tremendous growth and learning. I mean, I've learned a lot in school and those classes have really prepared me for my future career. Sure, I made them out to be fun and ridiculous, but deep down, I know that they helped me out. On a personal note, I've learned a great lesson is losing someone you love. No, I'm not talking about "breaking up". I'm talking about death. For those of you who don't know, my grandmother passed away this summer. I guess it really hit home because she lived with us and I pretty much watched her die. I remember the last morning I saw her. I knew when I walked into the room that that would be the last time I would ever have to tell her how much I loved her. I still miss her and think of her alot, but I know, and this is completely awesome, that she's in heaven with Christ and that blows me away.

On the lighter side of things, I've made some incrediable life long friends this past year and I think I've really grown spiritually. That's not to say that I haven't messed up or failed God this year, but even I have, those times have taught me alot about myself and my faith. So yeah, needless to say, I'm excited about the year ahead and I feel like some awesome things are going to happen.

The More You Talk, The Less I Hear

2005-02-27T19:15:00.000-08:00

So this is the first entry on my solo blog. There is nothing overly exciting or interesting about it, except that what I write is real...regardless of its seriousness or stupidity...its not fake. This is me, nothing less and nothing more.