Day 30---Day 30

List 10 things you would hope to be remembered for.

I watched a video the other day... it was about a guy who passed away at a fairly young age. At his funeral, the pastor had asked a couple of people to come up front and share about this guy, and what part he played in their life. After these two people shared, someone else got up and shared. And then another. And yet another. This funeral service turned into a time of sharing how this man played a part in so many peoples lives. It was so cool to see the ways in which Jesus used this man to change lives. But with all the stories that were shared, you can wrap what every one said into one word...love.

This man loved people. He was there for so many people when they needed someone to be there the most. He was always reaching out to the hurt, the lost, the broken, the poor. It was amazing. I was crying by the end of the video. But more than that, this man loved Jesus with all his heart, soul, mind and strength. Jesus was everything to him and that is how these people knew him and would always remember him by. And in return, he was able to share that love with a lot of people. Jesus used this man to reach out to so many people. He brought so many people to Christ by simply loving them with the same kind of love that Jesus has for us.

This part of the post doesn't have much to do with the question, but I wanted to share this part of the story with you! The most amazing thing about this man... Before he gave his life to Christ, he was a mess. He was heavy into drinking, drugs, and who knows what. He ended up jail. His wife wanted a divorce. And on top of all this, he ended up in the hospital from having a heart attack. He was at a very low point in his life. But in that moment, God moved in his heart. He ended up giving his life to Jesus. He quit his big fancy job, him and his family moved out of their big fancy house. His life was forever changed. He began feeding the poor. He was a friend to people who didn't have anyone else to turn to. He was there for them. He loved them. He wasn't doing all of this just to be a nice guy, and he wasn't being fake about it. He genuinely loved these people. But at the funeral, nobody talked about his past and all the mistakes he had made.

That is the beautiful thing about Christ. He takes us undeserving, messed up, broken, sad, angry, depressed people and he gives us new life. He makes us new. And your life will forever be changed. It's truly a beautiful thing. After surrendering his life to the Lord, when people encountered this man, instead of seeing his past mistakes and the mess that he was, they see Jesus in him. The past is forgotten and washed away by the blood of Jesus.

Back to the question now...

 I don't care about how many things I am remembered for. There is one thing that matters...I hope that I would be remembered as a person who truly loved Jesus with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. In the same way as the guy above, I don't want to be remembered by anything that I did, but rather what Jesus did. How he saved me. How He provided for me. How He loved me. How He cared for me. How He took care of me. How He protected me. And did I mention how much He loved me? I want to share that love in everything I do, everything I say, and wherever I go.

That is how I hope to be remembered. As a person who was in love with Jesus and would do anything for Him...even if it meant selling my big fancy house (which I don't have, but sticking with the above story) to move into a smaller one so that I could give more. To quit a fancy, high paying job for a not so high paying job that would allow me to reach out to the poor. That is love. That is sacrifice. That is faith.

This is a prayer I need to pray every single day:

"So let my life be the proof, the proof of your love
Let my love look like You and what You're made of
How You lived, how You died,
Love is sacrifice
So let my life be the proof, the proof of Your love"
-Lyrics from the song "Proof of Your Love" by King and Country.

30 Days---Day 29

What do you think people misunderstand most about you?

Hmmm.....

Well, I tend to come off as shy. Some may find this hard to believe, but I have come a long way with this! I used to be really super shy...it was bad. So there has been improvement, it's true. Most people, when they have known me for a while, they always talk about how quiet I was when they first met me. But I promise if you keep talking to me and I'm around you more, I'm not so quiet! :)

30 Days---Day 28

What is my love language?

I will share with you my top 3 love languages...

1) Quality time
2) Acts of Service
3) Physical Touch

I took the love language test and the above were my results. I do believe they are fairly accurate. I love to spend time with people, and I love having good, deep conversations about life, with my friends/family. They are my favorite. Just being open and honest with your feelings, opinions, and thoughts about something. Talking about anything and everything. I love having one-on-one time to get to know a person. And I like when people feel comfortable around me, and trust me enough to share with me about their life...even the hard/difficult/sad/embarrassing/not so easy to talk about stuff.

On the other side of that, I like when I am able to truly open up and share my own thoughts, feelings, and thoughts about whatever is going on in my life. To be able to be myself around people. Something that doesn't happen easily with me. Not that I don't trust people, but I guess I like it when people take the time to get to know me. I'm not going to share my life story with everybody I meet as soon as I meet you. But if you get to know me, if you take the time to ask and find out, I will share it with you!

As far as the acts of service, I am a pretty independent person. Sometimes I like to do things myself and not ask for help. This isn't exactly a good thing though. But I do like it when people volunteer to help me out with something or even just do it without me asking. I definitely don't complain about that! But I'm not one to always come out and ask for the help.

Physical touch....I love hugs! Although if I am just meeting you, I'm probably not going to hug you. But that also depends on the situation. If someone I am just meeting or barely know came and gave me a hug, I wouldn't stop them! I'm just not going to be the one to initiate the hug. :) It goes along with what I talked about above...feeling comfortable around someone. If I'm just meeting you, I'm not going to feel as comfortable walking up to you and giving you a hug as I would someone who I have known for 3 months, 6 months, 8 months, 1 year, or 5 years...

30 Days---Day 27

What is your favorite part of the body and why?

I'm not sure how I feel about this question... I feel weird writing a blog post about this. But here it goes....

My favorite part of the body... I would probably have to go with the eyes. Actually, the smile. Yeah....a person's smile is my favorite. And always the first thing I notice! And then eyes would be the next thing! Why? Well...I don't really know. I guess that is what I notice first when I see a person? Unless they're not smiling, then I notice that they are not the smiling type. Or maybe they are just on a mission to do something. haha.

 Anyways...I'm rambling. People tell me I am always smiling, so I think I just like to be around people who are generally smiley, happy, and friendly people. It makes me smile when other people are smiling...it's contagious! So I'm going to go with that as my final answer.

Ok...that's all.

Awkward post done.

:)

30 Days---Day 25

If you could have dinner with anyone in history, who would it be and what would you eat?

Hmmmm....

I guess it would depend on what you mean by history. Technically, history means past events...but most people when they think of history, probably think back to social studies class or history class and who we read about in our textbooks.

There are many great people that could be listed. But when I originally read this question, my mind didn't go back to those textbooks but rather events that have impacted and changed my life in a very personal way and played a part in molding me into the person I am today. For instance, Passion 2012. I know, I know, here I go talking about Passion again. I just can't help it...really I can't! But that is what I first thought of when reading this question...it would be so neat to have lunch with the people behind Passion. With Louie Giglio and his wife, and the whole Passion team. Just to be able to talk with them and hear their story of how they got to where they are today and stuff. It would be so neat.

Passion is making history....the heart of it all being Jesus. Not the leaders, not the speakers, not the bands...but Jesus! To bring fame to His name! To see a Jesus Generation rise up united for his name. It is touching the lives of literally thousands of people, changing them from the inside out. And it's not the kind of change that lasts a couple of weeks and then fades away. It's unlike any other conference I have ever been too! You may not read about Passion in the history textbooks in the years to come...or maybe you will! But who knows what you might read about that was the result of a person going to Passion and having their lives drastically changed. And really, when you think about it, we are all making history right now...every day!

Where would we eat? I would want to eat at some random, simple restaurant. In my mind Louie Giglio is this amazing, awesome person who loves Jesus, but he is human just like me. God is using Him differently than me, and uses us all in different ways, but we all have the potential to be used like He has used Louie. I'm going to guess that when Louie was 10 he had no idea he would be doing what he is doing today. No idea. We are ALL capable of making an impact in this world and in the lives of many. What that means and looks like is different for everyone, but He wants to use us in huge ways if we let Him! So, all of that to say, I would want to go somewhere with him and the Passion team that I would go to any day with my friends...like Red Robin, Qdoba, Olive Garden or something like that! Nothing fancy!

30 Days---Day 24

Describe your family dynamic of your childhood vs. your family dynamic now.

Well...our family has certainly grown! It is no longer just the 5 of us. My oldest brother is married, and they had their first child in August. My youngest brother (no he is not married!!!) but is dating Chrissy, and has been for a couple of years! It can be real awkward at times...when we are all here and go to eat or something, there is my mom and dad, Devin and Kelli, Dustin and Chrissy, and then me. Even the waiter at El Pueblito (a restaurant here in Chanute) made a comment about "where is your significant other?" as if I wasn't already aware that every other person in my family has one! haha And I'm not throwing myself a pity party, I am very happy for my brothers. It's just weird, that's all! :)

 My extended family has grown. My cousins are all getting married and having kids. It's pretty exciting. For a while there seemed to not be many young ones, but now on both my mom and dad's side, they are everywhere! It's fun!

But back to my immediate family...my mom, dad, brothers, sister in-law, and nephew...well, I will say one thing....they are the best! We get along really well and always have a lot of fun together. They are always making me laugh!

My little brother and I used to fight on a daily basis. He drove me crazy and I drove him crazy. I always had to stay and watch Dustin and take him places once I was old enough to drive so we spent a lot of time together. Let's just say there were a lot of phone calls made to my mom when he wouldn't listen to me (or the weather man pretending I was calling my mom! It usually worked...until he caught on). We wrestled a lot too...believe it or not, I used to be able to take him down! :)

 I can't really say Devin and I ever really fought....I mean we did every now and again...but what sibling doesn't? It wasn't quite to the extent of Dustin and I, that's for sure. But I wasn't around him quite as much either so maybe that helped!

But now that we are all grown up, I can honestly say that they are my friends! :) We definitely like to joke around with each other and push each other's buttons...but I suppose it's our way of saying, I love you. When it comes down to it, I think know we all care for each other and are there for each other! The day we are all living in different places will be so SO weird!

My relationship with my parents...well I have already answered that in a previous blog post towards the beginning of the "30 Days". They are fantastic parents though! They are still happily married which, too, is becoming not too common these days. Breaks my heart.

I am forever grateful for my family!

30 Days---Day 23

List your top 5 hobbies and why you love them.

1) Photography. I don't know a lot about the technical stuff, but I do love, love, love to take pictures. Where ever I go, my camera goes with. :) Definitely something I would like to learn more about and get better at!

2) Reading. I do enjoy reading, I just don't do it near enough. 

3) Does spending time with family and friends count as a hobby? Because I love to do that!

4) A hobby of mine used to be playing the piano...and then I moved away. I would like for it to become my hobby again, though!

5) I enjoy playing tennis just for fun! I love to go and hit around. Or play ultimate tennis...best game ever!

I just remembered the last part of the question....why I love to do the things listed above. Rather than writing in the same answer for each one, I will just answer it all at once. I love to do these things because I enjoy them, they make me happy, they are relaxing, and fun! :)

30 Days---Day 22

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years? 15 years?

Honestly, I have no idea. No. Idea. Kind of scary...but exciting all the same!

I am going to be taking bible classes beginning either August or next December depending on the money situation! I am very excited for that! So hopefully when 5 years from now comes around, I will be done with that. That's all I know though.

Where will I be living? What job will I have? Will I be married? Will I have a kid? Oh boy. Who knows.

I have learned to not make plans. I mean, I can make my own plans, but it's God's plan for me that matters. And He tends to not really let me in on what is coming next until right before it's happening! haha. Makes life one big, exciting adventure I suppose! I am just looking forward to getting to that place where I can get settled in. But as I say that, I don't know if that is the word I want to use. I don't want to "settle in" and get so comfortable with the spot where I am that I become complacent. It would just be nice to find a place and stay a while...although I don't know how long "a while" is! I feel like the past 3 years have been one big whirlwind...lots of changes and moving back and forth. So I am ready to settle in, in the way that I know what I want to be doing now, and I'm ready to start doing that.

The wonderful thing...I think I have found that place where I am doing what I love....ministry has stolen my heart! That is what I want to do with my life...serve God. Serve the Church. Serve people. It's a pretty fantastic feeling to get to be doing that! I am enjoying every minute of it! So until God tells me differently, here I shall stay. I look forward to seeing where I am in 5 years and what the Lord has done in and through me, but I don't want to get caught up in having a "plan" figured out. God has it all under control and I am following Him.

30 Days---Day 21

Weekends are bad and throw me off of schedule. They distract me. I do love my weekends, but they always  seem to get busy! This past weekend for example....I played softball Saturday. Sunday I was tired from softball plus other things I had going on, I didn't get much of anything accomplished... like blogging for instance.

And here it is, Wednesday. Where do the days go?

Anyway. I'm back. I am determined to finish this and finish it strong! :)

Today's thing: If you could have one superpower, what would it be and what would you do with it first?

It would be neat to have the ability to become invisible. Which makes me think of Harry Potter and the invisible cloak he has. haha. Think about it. You think about those times when you really wish you could be a fly on the wall and see/hear what is happening in whatever the situation may be?  And I don't mean that in a nosy, "let's get the juicy details and latest gossip" kind of way. It would be interesting to be behind the scenes...to see what is happening when you're "not there". See how the situation is handled, what kind of behavior the person has...etc. I guess this comes from a love of people watching. People are so fascinating, why they do what they do, and how they do it. What makes a person tick...

 But also it would be nice to have the ability to "disappear" for a little bit...even if only for 10 minutes. I'm not talking days at a time or even hours...just for a bit! To be able to go wherever with nobody seeing you. Nobody walking up and starting a conversation with you. Nobody asking you questions. Just a break where you can't be bothered! And this makes me sound like I don't like people....I love people! I promise! But I think there are times when every person, no matter how much of a people person they may be, just needs a break from people. Even if only for 5 or 10 minutes. Am I right?

And well...you would always have the advantage when playing hide and seek! And you could play a lot of tricks on people and never get caught. :) Oh the possibilities!

30 Days---Day 20

Describe 3 significant memories from your childhood.

Let me start by saying, you may think you had a cool childhood, but mine was better! ;) Just kidding. But really, it was the best.

1) Hanging out with the James gang...all. the. time. They lived across the alley from us. We had sleepovers all the time. If my mom would have allowed it, I probably would have stayed over just about every night. haha. But I was at their house just about daily. We would ride our bikes around the neighbor hood, we would play school and make our young siblings (Dustin, Larryn, and Bethany) be the students and us be the teachers even though they begged to be the teacher, we would play nurse or doctor, we played house (again the little ones were the kids whether they liked it or not!), we would go up to the attic and spend hours playing up there (that or until we go so hot we couldn't take it any longer)....Oh...playing knock out in our driveway until 2:00AM!

I could go on and on. So many memories with them!!

2) I was staying the night with my friend Nicole, who happened to live right by the swimming pool. We spent a lot of time there. But anyway, this particular day we got brave and went off the diving boards at the swimming pool. We went back that night when the pool reopened for night swimming and pretty sure we spent an hour or two of doing nothing else but jumping off the boards over and over and over again.

Why this particular memory came up, I'm not really sure. I too, have so many memories with Nicole! Such fun times we always had!!!

3) When my parents would go out to dinner and stuff with friends...it didn't happen too often. But when it did, Devin stayed home with Dustin and I. We always ordered pizza, got out the sleeping bags, blankets, and pillows, and would watch a movie...or probably more like me watch them play playstation...that sounds right. I don't remember that part as clearly, but I do remember it always meant pizza for dinner and hanging out with Devin...and the ginger. :) Just kidding Dustin...but really. I hung out with you all the time. Devin...not near as much!

30 Days---Day 19

If you could live anywhere, where would it be and why?

Oh my 'lanta! Why must these questions be so hard? For a person who has the urge to travel and see the world just about every day, this is too hard to choose just one place. My list of places I want to go to is growing constantly. Well...I don't technically have one written down per say, but it's all in my head. :) And, I'll be honest, I will go anywhere! That is my list...everywhere! I love traveling and going to new places I have never been to. When I go a year without taking a trip somewhere, I get real antsy. 

But where would I live? Hmmm. I think it's pretty close to my "places I want to go" list! :) I'll go pretty much anywhere the Lord calls me to!

I would love to live in a different country at some point in my life. Even if it's only for a year or two. Somewhere like....Africa! I want to hold, love on, and play with all of those kiddos! But not just them, but to hear the stories of all the people living there. And to ride an elephant. :) That place is at the top of my list for sure. And some day I would love to go back to Honduras!

Where do I want to live in in the states?

Well...I do love Kansas a lot. It's really not that bad here! California would be nice...that is the location that is on my heart at the moment! There is a Bible College there that I am very interested in going to. Colorado is super awesome. I would definitely be okay with living there. And maybe even Texas. 

Why those three places? Because those are just about the only places I have actually been to! Not quite but pretty darn close. Just for fun, I decided to put up pictures from each place I have been to. California, Colorado, Arizona, Texas, Georgia, New York and Honduras. I have driven through some other states, but I don't have pictures from all of them. Plus I was never "there" for anything. Just driving through, so in my book that doesn't count! :) 

P.S. My goal was to put up only one picture from each place....I couldn't pick just one though. Too hard! Story of my life....not being able to choose my favorite of anything! haha.

Colorado

Colorado

Colorado

Colorado: Garden of the Gods

Colorado: Top of Pikes Peak

Honduras

Honduras

California

California: we went to this church....it's all glass! Pretty neat!

New York: You can't really tell but I'm on top of the Empire State Building.

New York: Statue of Liberty...obviously. :)

New York Skyline

Washington D.C.  I can't find all of my DC pics so this is the best I have. 

Williams, Arizona

Grand Canyon with the roomies, Amanda and Anna.

Sitting on the edge of the Grand Canyon. Awesome!

Dallas, Texas

Downtown Dallas, Texas

Atlanta, Georgia: Georgia Dome for Passion 2012

30 Days---Day 17

What is the thing you most wish you were great at?


I could think of a number of things. Would you like a list?

Dancing. I would love to be able to dance and not look ridiculous. Singing. I always thought it would be neat to lead praise and worship, but I think my voice would be more of a distraction. ;) Run. I wish I was a runner. I'm working on it though but it doesn't come easy for me! I wish I was great at being super outgoing. I'm usually more on the quiet side until I'm comfortable around people and know them well. I would like to work on that. I would like to be more athletically gifted. I'm afraid my brothers took all of those genes though! I want to play more instruments...be able to play the piano really well. Learn how to play the guitar. Oh how the list could go on and on!

But the thing about this list of things: Most of them, I can get better at! Even great if I really want to and put in the time/effort! Neat! I guess it's time for me to get busy! :)

Hope you all had a wonderful weekend!

30 Days---Day 16

Not gonna lie. I kind of would like to look over today's question and pretend it doesn't exist. :)

What are your 5 greatest accomplishments?

Now is the time where people would start listing their education, their family (getting married, having kids...), getting that dream job and beginning their career, sports accomplishments and etc.

Well....I don't have any of that!

I am not throwing myself a pity party, but I honestly can't think of anything. Do I see my life as a failure? Absolutely not. I just may not have the degree, the job title, the trophy, and etc. to show for anything.

Am I happy with my life and where I am at? Absolutely. I would much rather be where I am now, then working a job that I hate with a degree in something that I don't care about. I may not have a degree in anything yet, but I am doing the things that I love! And I will get that degree eventually...now that I know what I want to do with my life!

I know that I always bring Jesus into this...but I just can't help it. He is my greatest accomplishment. I don't really need the high paying salary and high up there job title to be happy and feel accomplished. I don't need a degree to tell me I am worth something. I don't need a huge trophy to tell me I won. Thankfully my identity is found in Jesus and not my job title and how much money I make.

And just to be clear...I am not knocking anybody who has a degree in anything, anybody who has a fancy, high up job title, or anyone who went to state or won state in a sport and so on. I say kudos to you!! That is awesome and I know to get any of the above, it takes a lot of hard work and dedication. I think it's great! I just wanted to throw that out there! :)

P.S. I am going on "vacation" aka going to Topeka this weekend. I will be taking the weekend off from posting to enjoy time with my dear friends! I'll be back on Monday!

Thanks so much for reading! Have a wonderful weekend!

:)

30 Days---Day 15

If you were an animal, what would you be and why?

The first thing that came to mind was a dolphin. I don't have a significant reason as to why I want to be this animal. Sorry. I just think it would be fun to swim around all day I guess! Side note: I have always wanted to go swimming with dolphins. I'm going to do it someday! And this just gave me an idea for a blog post....to share with you my bucket list! :) I just may have to do that...but I'll save that for another day.

Another animal I would want to be if I were an animal....a bird. To be free and fly around all day long. To see things from a different perspective. To see the world. Yeah, I would be okay with that!

30 Days---Day 14

Describe 5 strengths you have.

1) I consider myself to be a good listener. That is what people tell me anyway.

2) I can usually get along with just about anybody!

3) Loyal. I will do anything for my friends and family. They mean the world to me! I will do my best to be there for them in whatever way I can! I sure hope my friends/family know that!

4) I laugh at just about everything. You may be laughing that I am listing this as a strength...but I really think it is! Why? It's hard to stay mad or in a bad mood when you're laughing...really! Can you think of a time when you were really upset, then had a good laugh, and you were still really mad after? Probably not. Not saying the problem goes away, but it lightens the mood I suppose! Also, when I laugh at something silly (or in some cases I laugh at nothing in particular!), someone else laughs, and before you know it, the room full of people is laughing. And vice versa....someone else laughs and suddenly the whole room is laughing. It's so contagious!! Having a good laugh will turn any bad day into a good one!

5) I love Jesus. While this does not make me perfect, or guarantee that my life is a piece of cake, and nothing bad is never going to happen to me, it does mean that whatever comes my way, I am not alone. He is right beside me, walking with me. With Him, I can get through anything!!

"Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings. My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me."
Psalm 63:7

30 Days---Day 13

Describe 5 weaknesses you have.

1) Well...I think I have established that I am terrible at committing to things and sticking with them. So I guess it would be more like finishing things. Yeah, that's it...I'm terrible at finishing things.

2) I can be very forgetful! Sometimes I let myself get overloaded and overwhelmed and say I am going to do this and that, and be here and there, and before I know it things start slipping by me and I forget. Not a good thing at all! Not very responsible. Trying to get in the habit of writing down everything in my planner. But most importantly getting into the habit of remembering to look at my planner every morning. :)

3) Although this is something I have improved on quite a bit, it can still be a dangerous thing. But I have a hard time saying no sometimes. This is something I definitely get from my mom! :) I hate having to tell someone no. It always makes me feel so bad! Even when I have a super legitimate reason for saying no!

4) I haven't decided if this is a good or bad thing. I think it can be a really good thing, but also bad. I can take a lot of "crap" (for lack of better word at the moment) from people. I will put up with a lot before I say anything....if I say anything. ;) This is a good thing because I am able to get along with pretty much anybody! But it can also be a bad thing... Sometimes I maybe put up with a little too much and never say anything.

5) Facebook/twitter/internet/phone. Yep it's true. I have become pretty dependent/hooked on all of the above. Not always a good thing and not always helpful with my time management skills.

30 Days---Day 12

Describe a typical day in your life.

Monday through Friday I watch my nephew, Brodi. I usually get there anytime between 7:45 and 9:00 and am there until 5:30ish most days. What do we do during the day? Well, we go on walks. We play a lot and make faces at each other! :) (Brodster is very into making faces right now!) We go hang out with Uncle Dusty, (or he comes to see us!). If it's during the lunch hours and we are at grandma and grandpa's, Brodi gets to see them which always brightens there day I think! And Brodi's too of course...he tells me all about it on our walk back. ;) Okay maybe not yet but only because he can't talk! haha. Every other Thursday we go and help grandma and Mary fold newsletters at the church that are sent out. There is always something fun to do! We don't get bored! Especially as he is getting older...he is more aware and interested in the things happening around him. So fun to watch and see him grow each day! I'm blessed.

All in all, we have a good time!

My week nights...it varies. I have a lot of random things going on so it's never the same. I am trying to get into the habit of exercising so that will happen in the evening. My mom and I started the Couch to 5K program yesterday. I am telling you this in hopes that you will help keep me accountable for doing this. As you have discovered, I'm great at starting things but terrible at sticking with them....

I help out with a youth group...about every other week I am giving the message so throughout the week I am prepping for that. Help out with stuff at church when the opportunity presents itself. Family stuff. Bible study. Things like that fill my time.

Typing this out, I realize how dull my life seems. But I promise it's not! Not for me anyway! I am loving where I'm at right now and excited for what's to come...whatever that may be!

20 Days---Day 11

Describe 10 pet peeves you have.

1) When someone says they are going to do something and they never do. Now I know at some point just about everyone is guilty of doing this, I know I am! But when people do it over and over and over. It gets to the point where they say they are going to do something, and I just stop expecting for it to ever happen.

2) This comes from working with public: but when they are asking about something and I tell them it's not something we are able to do, or whatever the situation is, and they get angry and upset and are very rude. They ask to see the manager, so I go get them. They come to talk to the customer and the customer is super nice to them and the manager tells them the same thing I already told them, and the customer doesn't argue or complain to them and moves on with their day.

3) People who find something wrong with everything.

4) I don't know if this would be considered a pet peeve or not....but a dirty windshield. Drives me crazy! I don't care as much if the rest of my car is clean or not, as long as the windshield is clean! I tend to go through a lot of windshield wiper fluid!

5) When you're at Wal-Mart or somewhere and the cashier sneezes/coughs in their hand and then touches all your stuff without ever wiping their hands. Gross!

6) When people talk through an entire movie...especially one I have never seen. I don't mind a little bit of talking here and there, but through the whole movie? Not so much.

7) Being the first person somewhere....I hate that! Sometimes if I get to a place and notice that nobody else is there, I will drive around for a little bit and then come back.

8) When people go to the "20 items or less" checkout line and they clearly have a lot more than 20 things in their cart!

9) Getting behind a slow driver...especially when I am on the highway! Also...when your driving down the highway and someone pulls out thinking they have plenty of time but they really don't. And then they only go 60 mph in a 65!

10) This is from working at Billy Vanilly: people who would leave a huge mess where they were sitting. It's not even a big deal if they don't put the plates in the bin that is clearly marked and napkins and cups in the trash... but when they leave cupcake crumbs and frosting everywhere and spilled water and don't even try to clean it up a little bit, that can be a little frustrating, especially on a busy day!

Now I feel as though I have done my complaining for the day! Not gonna lie...I couldn't think of anything at first. I had to google pet peeves to get some ideas! :) What are some pet peeves you have?

Have a fantastic day!! Thanks for reading!

Day 30---Day 10

Describe your most embarrassing moment.

This one was easy! I mean...I have a lot of embarrassing moments to choose from but the one that stands out above all the others.....

I was in 4th grade.

I woke up on this particular day -it happened to be Dr. Seuss's birthday...I remember the library teacher wearing her hat and read us Dr. Seuss books- to get ready for school. Anyways. I had a terrible taste in my mouth. It was bad...and then I smelled it. It was an awful smell. The smell of a skunk. Gross.

I crawl out of bed and walk to the kitchen to find my family there. I remember fixing myself a cup of orange juice to try and get the awful taste out of my mouth. I asked my mom what was going on. I found out our house had been sprayed by a skunk. Somehow, they managed to crawl through a tiny hole to get under our house.

Everything smelled like a skunk. Everything.

I was terrified of going to school and smelling like a skunk. I remember eating my breakfast and asking dad if anybody would be able to smell me. He said that I should be fine. Devin had already left for school and went to the neighbors to see if he smelled of skunk or not. He didn't.

So off to school I went. I walked into the gym and sat down with my class. Immediately a classmate of mine says, "Ewwww. It smells like skunk."

I was humiliated. And I just sat there keeping my distance from people even though I knew they could still smell it. Never did I say that it was me...I just sat there. The entire day. I probably said nothing but a couple of words that whole school day. I guess I thought maybe if I sat there and moved as little as possible and talking only when asked a question, no one would notice. It was probably the longest 7 hours of my life.

Why did I smell and nobody else in my family did? The skunk sprayed directly under my room. Perfect.

Worst. Day. Ever.

To this day I do not have a good relationship with skunks. Not only did they spray our house that one time but two or three times. We had to go stay at a hotel because it was so bad. And there was no way I was going back to school smelling like a skunk.

In high school, I was driving home from my piano lesson (my teacher lives out in the country) and ran over a skunk leaving my car to smell like skunk for quite sometime. There was no way for me to avoid hitting it...I was coming up to the top of the hill and it ran right out in front of me leaving no time to even think about hitting my breaks or trying to miss it.

So to this day, when I hear the word skunk, or smell one, I shiver. It's a constant reminder of that awful day in 4th grade... Dr. Seuss's birthday...

30 Days---Day 9

List 10 people who have influenced you and describe how.

The same rule that has applied for previous posts apply to this one as well... and all of the posts in the future....these are in no specific order!

My family: that is kind of a given! They are always there supporting me, encouraging me, cheering me on, putting up with me...and on and on. You all are a huge part of my life! And my brothers make me laugh like nobody else! Never a dull moment with us!

Stacy Morgan... now Roberts: I believe she is a huge part of how my relationship began with God. Before getting to know her, I believed in God but I didn't really know what it meant to be a for real "Christian". To daily walk with the Lord, to have a relationship with Him. She always made time to meet up with me (even though she didn't have to do that) and just talk about whatever and answer any questions I may have had! And she would pray for me! I am so thankful to have had her in my life! It was a real blessing.

Amanda Keenan....now Reimer: She is my best friend! Now we are both living in separate places and don't talk on a super regular basis, but it is always so great when we do see each other! It's like we never were apart! But she is the person who was always inviting me to bible studies and youth group. Though I didn't realize it at the time, and I didn't really participate in any of the conversations, looking back they were such a blessing to be a part of! I am realizing now how much of an impact they had on my life. So thanks Amanda! :) But besides that, she is just a joy to be around and she really loves Jesus! I have so many great memories with her and I hope that one day we can live close to each other again and see each other on a regular basis. But in the meantime we are back to only being 3 hours apart so that is progress!

Cheri Bunch: She led some of the bible studies that I went to with Amanda! She is so closely connected to God and it is very obvious that she loves the Lord! She was always so encouraging and really passionate about Jesus! She is such a sweet and kind lady. I know I keep saying this, but she was a real blessing. Though I never said much of anything at bible study (I was trying to take it all in!), I got so much from every single meeting! I always walked away feeling encouraged and excited about life and God and wanting to know Him better....wanting to have the same kind of relationship with Jesus as she did.

Ariona Taylor: Her relationship with the Lord is inspiring. She is always wanting more of Him, wanting to draw closer to Him, to know Him better. She's a prayer warrior! She has such a great connection with the Lord and is always asking Him to call her out on stuff, and when He does, she prays about it, has other people pray about it, and she tries to break away from it. She truly seeks to be like Jesus, to have the heart of Jesus! Ari is filled with so much joy...it's contagious! And her laugh...it's wonderful! And in most cases by the time she is done laughing, everyone in the room is laughing which leads to her laughing harder, then everyone laughs harder, and before you know, it's been 30 minutes of nonstop laughing and you have had your ab workout for the day! :) She is a person who people instantly connect too and feel comfortable around. She is just an all around true joy to be around and I am so glad to call her my friend....:)

Stefanie Glaubitz: God knew what He was doing when He brought her into my life. I have gained so much....a wonderful friend, a job at a cupcake store, living at the Chi Alpha House. The last two things were just bonuses but really just having her as my friend has been a real, you guessed it, blessing! :) Sorry, I can't say it enough! In writing this blog I knew it before, but it is just reminding me how good God is and the people He has placed in my life I am just so grateful for! But anyway, Stefanie, too, loves the Lord. She is always wanting more of Him. She is passionate about the Lord and His will for her life and following where ever He is leading her! She is always so encouraging and has just the right thing to say. She is so much fun to be around and is always up for an adventure! And she too is a prayer warrior! When she says she is going to be praying for you, she really means it! Oh...and she really brings out the blonde in me. It seems as though I have the most goofiest/embarrassing/random/weird moments when I'm with her! And she doesn't let me forget them...:)

Louie Giglio: I don't know him personally...but I feel like I do! I have heard him speak before and have listened to several podcasts of his...He is doing huge things and not for himself or to bring fame to His name, but everything He does is to further the Kingdom. To bring fame to God. To share Christ with the WORLD! The Lord really speaks through Him. He is so sensitive to the Spirit...it's so cool. Every time I hear a podcast or hear him speak or read anything of his, I think it can't get better, but it always does! He always says what I need to hear at that time. It's kind of incredible....God just blows me away! He seriously amazes me!

Francis Chan: He too I don't know personally...but again I feel like I do. I have read his book Crazy Love and have heard him speak a few times. He's not afraid to share the truth...even if it's not what you want to hear. Even if it steps on your toes. He is so passionate about Jesus. He isn't concerned about things of this world, he lives his days for Jesus using the Bible as the "road map" I guess you could say. And by that I mean, we all can read the bible...but do you apply it to your life? Do you really live it out? Instead of just talking the talk, are you really walking out by faith? In James it says, "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says." That has been encouraging, awesome, challenging, scary and rewarding for me all at the same time!

My dear friends: unfortunately I don't have the time to go through and list all of you guys and how you inspire me. But you do. Every single one of you more than you probably know! If your name is not listed here, it's not because I have forgotten about you. Names just keep popping into my head of who and how you have inspired me, but it could get pretty lengthy if I were to type it all out...and would take quite sometime! But...a shout out to my Chi Alpha family, if any of you are reading this, I miss you tons!! You guys are awesome! All of you are on this list for sure...you guys have impacted my life in so many ways!!! I'm so thankful for my time spent being apart of the ministry Chi Alpha! You changed my life!

That is the thing about questions like these...how do you narrow it down to just a certain number of people? It's impossible to do. So I am just going to stop here. Because even if I were to list two more people, that's not enough. Plus I have to do some other things before I go to sleep tonight. So until tomorrow, goodnight! :)

And thank you to those of you who take the time out of your day just to read my blog. You are fantastic! To end, here are some pictures of some of the people who inspire me! Some you have probably already seen but I felt like showing again I guess! haha. Enjoy!

Brodi!

Dustin and Chrissy.

Becca

Most of the Chi Alpha crew!

                                     

Oh my Mirah!

Stefanie and Meghann.

My lovely housemates at the Chi Alpha house!

TAYLOR! :)

Ariona!

My fam

Kiley and Amanda!

Rach!

Most of the Chi Alpha girls.

30 Days---Day 8

What are 5 passions you have?

(Again, these are in no specific order)

1) I am passionate about Jesus! I don't think much of an explanation is needed there....if you would like one though I would love to share with you! :) He is just fantastic though! He makes me smile.

2) Family/friends...that one is kind of a given as well!

3) People. I love to be around people. I love to make people happy. I love to people watch. I love meeting with people one on one. I don't do so well in group settings...not that it freaks me out. But I'm not so good at taking part in the conversation when there is a group of people....I'm more likely to sit back and watch and listen. It's fun!

4) Music. I'm not necessarily great at making music, but I love to listen to music! I do play the piano...or at least I know how to. Due to not having a piano while I was living in Topeka it has been a few years since I have consistently played so my playing skills aren't too high right now.

5) Pictures/Photography. I always have my camera with me everywhere I go. I love taking pictures. I love capturing fun/goofy/special moments and being able to go back and look at them whenever I want to. It's a wonderful thing!

30 Days---Day 7

What is your dream job and why?

Hmmm....

There are so many things I would love to do! These are in no specific order! Open a coffee shop, missions overseas, photography, be a youth pastor....or a regular pastor (those words "be a youth pastor/pastor...never thought I would say that!), be a mom -I would love the opportunity to be a stay at home mom and do random jobs on the side- or not even jobs but volunteering and being a part of a ministry or church...meeting up with people over coffee to talk about life, basically just be able to minister to people. Being a part of/leading a small group or bible study. I just have a heart for people!

So I guess I don't really have a specific dream job but rather anything that will allow me to pour into people and love on them! What exactly does that mean? Not sure. I have learned it's best not to make plans but rather let Jesus direct me and guide me. His are far better than mine....and I know this to be true from personal experience!

Everything is kind of wide open for me! I'm not necessarily tied down to just one thing... Maybe I will only do one or two of the things listed above, or maybe all of them! Who knows what God has in store for me. The possibilities are endless! :)

30 Days---Day 6

What is the hardest thing you have experienced?

Well...I thought long and hard about this question....

I can honestly say I have not gone through something extremely hard. I am thankful for that, but at the same time I wonder why God makes others go through hard times and not me? But only He knows why. I really don't have an answer to that question. I do know and will never stop believing that my God is a loving God, even when I am dealt those hard times. Or that is my prayer anyway! His timing and His ways are perfect. So in the meantime, I am very grateful.

I have dealt with the death of family members such as my Grandpa and Grandma Paskin (my dad's parents), and a couple of years ago, my Uncle and cousin's husband...both in the same day. That was probably the hardest because it was so unexpected. They were traveling to their job site and were hit...they both died. My aunt lost her husband and son in-law that day, my cousin lost her dad and husband, and my other cousins lost a brother in-law and dad. My dad lost one of his brothers. The kids lost their dad and "poppy". I cannot even begin to imagine what that must feel like for them. It was hard for the whole family, but to be in their shoes, I can't imagine the pain, hurt, and sadness they must feel.

All of that happened just before Christmas. As I said, it was hard for the whole family, but I can't even imagine what they went through and are going through...

Compared to that, the "hardest thing I have experienced" is so little. But I will share it anyway. College the last couple of years. Now don't get me wrong, they have been great. I have so many wonderful memories and friendships from them. I enjoyed them so very much! I grew so SO much as well during that time. So why was it hard? I guess while I had no problem fitting in socially, I did have problems fitting in academically (meaning finding a major that was something I was interested in and passionate about). I was surrounded by all of these people who I wouldn't say loved school -although some did- but they had something they were working towards. They had a goal. They knew what they wanted. Getting there wasn't exactly fun and I know they hated parts of it, but nonetheless there was a light at the end of the tunnel. Soon my friends were graduating and getting "big kid jobs" and I still had no clue what I wanted to do with my life.

For so long I felt like I was wasting my time. I didn't feel like I belonged where I was at. I felt as though there was something else I was supposed to be doing...I just didn't know what. If any of you have ever been at a point in your life where you just have no idea what your purpose is, what your supposed to be doing, and can't seem to find a place where you belong, you know that it's a hard place to be!

Anyway, I am happy to say...several major changes later and years of school with nothing to show for it, and lots of praying, I figured it out. Ministry. I'm still not sure what kind of ministry....whether it is being a missionary in Africa, working with a youth group, just meeting up with people and talking about life/Jesus, leading bible studies, being a pastor, or all of the above (but not all at once! ;))... I don't know. Or maybe it will be none of these things. Maybe God has another form of ministry for me! We'll see what He has planned....whatever it is though, I know I am gonna love it! It's going to be better than I could have imagined!! But for the first time in a long time, I feel as though I belong. Like I am doing exactly the right thing. Like I have a purpose in this world. It's a really great feeling!

And just recently God called me back to Chanute. So here I am. I miss Topeka and all of the wonderful people there, but I am also enjoying my time here. It was a hard move to make (even though it was only a 2 hour move verses moving to a different state/country) but still...it's hard to leave such a great group of people!

So that is my story...the hardest thing I have experienced so far.

-I know if you have been following my blog, you have heard this story before so I apologize for the repeat!-

30 Days---Day 5

What are the 5 things that make you most happy right now?

This is a hard one. There are a LOT of things that make me happy...I am very easy person to please. So to narrow it down to just 5....that's tough!

(These are in no specific order!)

1) For starters, today (now yesterday) was a great day that made me really happy. But I know that doesn't narrow it down to anything specific. What made today so great was seeing my Chanute friends. It always makes me happy when I get to see them! It doesn't happen too often so when it does, it's exciting! It was Artist Alley here in Chanute which means Main Street is blocked off and the whole town comes pretty much. There are people who set up booths and sells things...but really, who goes there for that? ;) I know some people do, but the other half goes to be social! It's like one big reunion. It was great to catch up with friends and hear about what is happening or going to be happening in their lives. Exciting times! But in general, my friends/family always make me happy!

Now that was a long answer...I will try to keep the other 4 short! :)

2) Coffee. I know, I know...lame. But it's true, it really does! I would be lying if I said it didn't.

3) Music. I can be having the worst day ever and turn on music and my mood instantly changes. Seeing friends/family usually has that effect too!

4) Jesus. Seriously, He does! He always knows what I need to make me smile! Whether it be a beautiful sunset, having coffee with a friend, a rainy day, or just good quality time with Him. Or all of the above. He is my rock and constant source of joy and happiness!

5) I went to church at First Methodist. They had Youth Sunday (which means the youth were in charge of the service) today so since I am helping out with the youth group, I attended the service. I enjoyed it so much! I love seeing the youth step it up and be bold in sharing their faith and what is on their heart! It's a beautiful thing and makes my heart so happy. What a great group of kids! You all did a fantastic job! So proud of you!!

I could go on and on and list a bunch of things....but I will leave it at this. Just know that there are many other things that bring great joy into my life! :)

30 Days---Day 4

List 10 things you would tell your 16 year old self, if you could.

This was a hard one....I had to really think about it! But I did it! :) I'm sure later tonight or tomorrow I will think of better ones because that's how I am...always think of the good responses after the fact! But oh well...here is what I came up with!

1) There IS life outside of high school. That is kind of hard to imagine and believe when your 16. There is a lot of talk about college and starting a whole new chapter in life once you graduate, but it seems so surreal when you are that age. But turns out, it really is true. Who knew! :) High school seems like such a big deal and a significant part of your life when you're 16 years old, but really it's just a very small part.

2) Grades...although in high school it is fairly easy to make good grades, it's also easy to get away without studying for tests and still do well. In college....not so much. So get into the habit of learning to study and prepare for tests.

3) Enjoy those years to the fullest...being in high school. They fly by.

4) Don't take life too seriously. You are just 16 years old...enjoy it!

5) It's completely okay not to want to be a part of the drinking/partying scene. You don't have to be a part of that to fit in or be cool or have a good time. I never did, and I don't regret it for one second.

6) Save as much money as you possibly can. College is expensive.

7) Being able to drive really is as great as I thought it would be. :) There is so much freedom in knowing you can get yourself from one place to another and not have to rely on others for transportation.

8) Getting a job...I got a job as soon as I was old enough. Don't regret that either. Having a job teaches you responsibility, money management, time management, how to work together/with other people, and so much more! Plus, depending on the job, you get to meet people that you would never have the chance to get to know if you were not working there. And it's great to have experience when trying to find a job down the road.

9) Networking is important....having connections comes in handy. The last place I lived and my last job I had both were due to a friend of mine. If it wouldn't have been for her, I probably wouldn't have worked at Billy Vanilly and wouldn't have moved into the Chi Alpha house...actually, most of my jobs I have had, I have gotten because I knew someone there.

10) Having a cell phone, a nice car, new in style clothes, or a big house doesn't necessarily make you cool. If you don't have these things, it doesn't make you any less significant of a person.

30 Days---Day 3

Describe  your relationship with your parents.

My relationship with my parents....

Where do I begin....well for starters, I am blessed. My parents rock. I feel so lucky to have the kind of relationship with my parents that I do. I know that there are many kiddos out there that don't have anything close to comparison. Why God blessed me, I don't know but I am forever grateful. So...to answer the question, I have a great relationship with my parents.

Sure we have our moments...but who doesn't? Sometimes I drive them crazy I know, and sometimes they drive me crazy. But I love them. They are the most supportive parents ever. Growing up, they were at every event they could be at. My band concerts, my long piano recitals, my dance recitals (or I am assuming they were there...don't really remember), my softball games, basketball games, soccer games, and tennis meets. I could always count on at least one of them being there! If you had the same kind of parents, you know how great of a thing that is!

And now that I'm older, although they may not always agree with the things I do, I always know that I have there support. They don't try to control my life. They give me their opinion (which I greatly take into consideration), but in the end they let me make the decision. And whatever decision I make...they support me and back me up. That, my friends, is a huge blessing. Means the world to me. Knowing that they are always there for me, always rooting for me, and always love me. Even when I drive them crazy! :)

Also...they take me for who I am. They don't try to change me. They let me be me.

All in all....they are da bomb. :)

the happenings.

It's crazy that I have been in Chanute for exactly 3 weeks today! What have I been up to?

Well...I had a friend come visit me one weekend which was great! I realize I have only been gone for 3 weeks...you may be thinking isn't that a bit soon for you to already have a visitor? Absolutely not! It was so nice having a little piece of Topeka here in Chanute for a few days. And honestly, I think it helped a lot. It was sad to see her go, but it was just really great getting to spend time with her. I guess it helped me gradually adjust to life here in Chanute.  For a while I kept thinking it was time to go. Especially the first week back. I'm usually in Chanute about 3 days on a good trip, and then back to Topeka. So it was really strange to not be going back to Topeka. 

Anyway, I am getting sidetracked. What did Ariona and I do in the big city of Chanute? Well, that's a great question. I was house sitting that weekend so most of our time was spent there. The wonderful lady I house sit for lives out in the country which is great. I always enjoy going out there! So nice and peaceful. We spent time out on the patio journaling and bird watching. Ari has never seen a for real hummingbird...she's only seen them on tv or in a picture...never in real life. And neither has she seen a cow other than in the distance while driving down the highway. So she got to experience both of these things! Sunday we went to lunch with my family then to Cherry Berry. Ari and I are big fans of Orange Leaf...that was/is our spot in Topeka. Whenever we would hang out it was almost guaranteed we would go to Orange Leaf! Yum! So it was only natural that we go to Cherry Berry...the next best thing. And we ate it at Santa Fe Lake...one of my favorite places in Chanute! It was a very relaxing, chill weekend.

Last weekend, a group of the youth group I am helping out with went to Grand Lake for a Missions in Action project. Due to the tornado that went through there was a lot of damage done. In the process of cleaning everything up, a massive pile had been gathered to be burnt.....on top of a water line meaning it couldn't be burnt. The lady whose home it is at is sick and not able and doesn't have the tools to move this massive pile. And when I say massive....I am not exaggerating. It was huge. So...we moved it over so it could be burned. Well...we helped for a little bit anyway! Then we got to have some fun while they kept working.

A couple who came to help brought along their boat! Sooo much fun. It was my first time boating...so it was my first time tubing. I had a blast. And so did the kids! It was several of our first times to go tubing so it was fun to get to experience that with them. But I will say...I was so sore after. Jeff, the guy driving, did not take it easy on us and I was happy about that. I had a blast. We were flying...literally! :) I did get thrown off once....apparently I did two back flips! Cool...I didn't even know I could do a back flip! haha. Unfortunately...I have no pictures of this. I am so bummed I didn't take my camera to document this adventure. You can count on me having my camera the next time though!

And of course there is my buddy Mr. Brodi. He is growing every day and so much fun. I am so blessed that I get to see him daily and watch him grow. It is so neat. He is something special for sure!

He is one cool dude.

Aunt Kaci and Brodi

Just chillin'

30 Days---Day 2

Describe 3 legitimate fears you have and explain how they became fears.

Three legitimate fears. There are the common fears....spiders, snakes...crickets....that kind of thing. Also, the loss of a loved one. And I don't mean to degrade losing a family member/ friend by categorizing it with a fear of spiders and snakes by any means. I can't even begin to imagine what it would feel like to lose a parent, sibling, or good friend. I am categorizing it with spiders and snakes because I feel that all of the above are common fears that not all, but most seem to have. I honestly can't even begin to imagine what that would feel like or how I would handle that situation. But anyway...I feel like it would be cheating if I used these for my three fears so I am counting them as one! Now for the other two...

Fear of the unknown. Although I am learning to embrace this...not knowing what's coming..it sure can be scary. It seems as though more and more pressure is put on high schoolers about figuring out what they want to do with their life...what they want to go to college for, what career they want to have, where they want to go to school at. It's expected that you have it all figured out... And if you don't have your life figured out, it's the end of the world. And the opposite is true too...you do have your life "figured out" and know exactly what you want to do and where you're gonna go to school at... what happens when it doesn't work out quite as you planned? It's the end of the world. Being a Christian and knowing Jesus has and is definitely helping me to overcome this fear. Knowing that I am not walking through this life alone. Although I don't know what the future holds...tomorrow, next week, next month, next year, 5 years from now....I trust in Jesus. As I am typing this out, I am coming to the realization that this is becoming less and less a fear...still freaks me out but not like it used to. Thanks, Jesus! I have found that Jesus' plans are way better than mine anyway.

Fear of not being good enough. This is something I am working on. In my head I have this idea that I have to be perfect and have everything figured out (fear of the unknown sneaking in!). I have to have all the right answers, and always say that perfect thing, those perfect words of advice or encouragement. If I know that I'm not good at something or there is a chance that I will fail at something (especially if people are around to see) I most likely won't do it. I don't like letting people down. I don't like not knowing all the answers (and most I don't!) and I don't like not feeling capable of doing something. I don't like being put in uncomfortable situations. But again, this is where Jesus comes into the picture. I don't know what I ever did without Him...and why it has taken me so long to get to the point of being comfortable...well not comfortable...but comfortable and confident to start stepping out in faith. I know that on my own, I'm not capable. But I am learning it's okay to not have all the answers to questions and solutions to problems. I may not have the perfect words of advice,  but that is when I have to trust Jesus to step in and take over. And so far in my experiences...He has if I let Him. He makes the incapable more than able! The impossible possible!

So my fears...they are constantly a work in progress. And these are just a couple.... But my biggest fear is that I will let these fears of mine get in the way of Jesus being able to use me in whatever situation I find myself in. I don't want to be held back by my fears....my God is greater than any fear, any worry, any terrible situation I may find myself in...that is super comforting. I just have to keep the faith and trust in Him!

What fears do YOU have??

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." -Proverbs 3:5-6

"When I am afraid, I put my trust in you." -Psalm 56:3

30 Days---Day 1

List 20 random things about myself.

1. I. Love. Fall. It is my favorite season. Hello hoodies, sweat pants, pumpkin spice lattes, apple cider, leaves changing colors, and cooler weather! I am so excited that you are here!

2. I hate crickets. I know...my family gives me crap about it. But they gross me out. And they jump. And you can hear the crunch when they are stomped on/smashed. I will kill a spider (unless it's a big one!) myself, but a cricket? Negative. I'm hollering for whoever is around to come take care of it.

3. I don't like ketchup! So what do I dip my french fries in? BBQ sauce! It's the only way to go. That or dipping them in a chocolate frosty from Wendy's! :) Yes... I do that. So good!

4. I don't have a favorite color...it's too hard to choose just one!

5. Gilmore Girls is my favorite tv show, hands down. I own all 7 seasons...and have watched all episodes numerous times. I'm not sure if that is something to be proud of or not. :) Big Bang is very close behind...or maybe they are tied!

6. I was born and raised in Chanute. Lived here all my life up until I moved Topeka. And here I am, back in Chanute again! Didn't see that one coming, but it's been a good move! Nannying for my nephew, Brodi, helping out with a youth group, and helping out however I can at my church! I stay pretty busy.

7. I have two brothers....one older and one younger. I also have a sister in-law who is just fantastic! And as mentioned above, a sweet nephew! :)

8. I love love love a rainy day. And thunderstorms. They make me very happy.

9. Not a big fan of summer....the good thing about summer is no school. The thing I don't like about summer...the hot weather. Not a fan.

10. I grew up in the church, always believing in God, but didn't quite figure out what it meant to be a Christian until I was a freshman in high school. But I am still figuring it out. I would say each year, each month, each week, each day I am learning more and drawing closer and closer to Him.

11. I LOVE coffee. I may or may not be a coffee addict! ;) Okay, okay, I AM a coffee addict. I will admit it. One of the hardest parts about living in Chanute other than moving away from my friends...no coffee shops here. I'm really missing my pumpkin spice latte's. But I shall make it through! Kelli, my awesome sister, bought some pumpkin spice coffee that she is sharing with me....delicious!

12. I enjoy reading. But again with the commitment/follow through issues....I start reading a book but don't finish it. Something else for me to work on. :)

13. I love traveling. My list of places that I have been too isn't very long, but it's a start! Also...I love flying!

14. Mountains or beach....I can't choose between that either. There is something wonderful about the beach, but mountains are pretty superb! Another thing I can't choose between! I love them both.

15. I went boating for the first time ever this past weekend. We went tubing! It was so so much fun! It's amazing how much it takes to go tubing...I would have never guessed! I was so sore afterwards and the next day, but it was so worth it! Can't wait to go again!

16. I hope to someday have a dog....that will happen the day I have my own place. So hopefully that will happen in the next year sometime.

17. I want to go to a lot of places, but at the top of the list....AFRICA!

18. I love to take pictures. I always have my camera with me. One day, I want to have my own fancy camera. But for now, my camera is great. I really do love it! And the bonus...I can take it with me everywhere! :)

19. I play the piano. Or I did. Still do, just haven't played in a LONG time! I do miss it though. Since I am back in Chanute now, I can get back into playing again!

20. I'm a KU fan...I think this is a good way to end this post! :) Rock Chalk Jayhawk!!