al's narratives

AdventureTown on Monday

2012-02-13T09:40:00.001-06:00

1. Finally, the sun came out in Greece and it was warm enough to open the balcony door, throw on some shorts AND WEAR MY CHACOS!

2. Today, we leave for ISRAEL! There was cleaning to do and packing to be done. Check and check. Jerusalem, see you tonight!

3. I’ve finally decided that Pride & Prejudice must be really good if people are still reading it. So, I downloaded it on my Kindle for the flight to Tel Aviv. If it’s a bust, I’m re-reading The Hunger Games.

4. During lunch, all I could do was stare at the basket of dessert on the table. It was my favorite Grecian pastry. Waiting, wondering when I was going to break and devour. SO instead of eating bread and pasta, I ate 4 pastries. And I’m feeling pretty ok with that decision.

5. When all was prepared for this next adventure, I watched the sun sink behind HUG mountain.

6. ISRAEL! I’m ready to eat falafel’s, shawarma, and everything that is 100% kosher.

Linking up with:
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I amand I’ve posted twice today, so if you want to hear more about my Peloponnese adventures, read below! And if not, well get outta here.

Tolo, Napflion, & Olympia – Sunrises, Gelato, and Rain

2012-02-13T07:46:00.001-06:00

What will I remember about Tolo, Greece, you ask?

A sky burning with oranges and yellows as the sun rose over the sea and mountains.

What will I remember about visiting the ancient city of Mycenae?

The Lions Gate (famoussss), exploring a cave and singing at the bottom, and how unbelievably cold and windy it was on the side of that mountain.

Oh, right. I’ll also remember the Tomb of Agamemnon—where the acoustics were just right, and Do Not Fear bounced beautifully around the rock.

Sweet Napflion, with its creamy gelato—“the BEST in Greece!” they boasted—and it’s Italian-style streets, narrow and romantic. Beautiful and seaside, we ate sandwiches for lunch and tossed our bread crumbs to the fish.

Olympia. I have a letter for Olympia, actually.

Dear Olympia,

Even though you provided us with torrential downpour and 30 degree weather, people still braved the 200 meter dash down the original Olympic track. We still marveled at the fact that we saw one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. So you can take your atrocious weather and shove it, because we were more than happy to swim through Olympia.

Sincerely,
I didn’t run the 200m because I knew I’d bust it.
(but hey, I did run a half-marathon)

Then, with sopping wet socks and jeans, we rode 5+ hours on the bus back to Porto Rafti.

And guess what?!

WE LEAVE FOR ISRAEL TODAY! Please keep our group in your prayers as we travel around Israel for the next 10 days.

Castles

2012-02-11T16:19:00.001-06:00

The very word has little girls imagining vibrantly beaded ball gowns, tiaras, romance, and a horse-drawn pumpkin. The excitement that a castle holds is almost tangible, even if it’s thousands of years old and aging with every passing season.

They are timeless.

As Haley and I explored the Acrocorinth castle we couldn’t help but imagine that we were back in time.

“What was this castle like in it’s prime,” we wondered aloud.

“Who has stood here?”

“I wonder, were there torches lining these sidewalks?”

It seems silly—we’re adults, after all.

But I think there is something about standing on ancient grass-covered steps that transports a girl back to her childhood, when sheets spread out over the tops of chairs and sofas created a castle. A magnificent, ancient, timeless castle.

I didn’t have a sheet this time. I was standing at a real one, one that overlooked the city of Corinth. It provided the most incredible view of mountains.

Our next dosage of castle life was at the Palamidi castle in Napflion.

That view was even better, teal sea water meeting mountains in the distance.

I plucked flowers from the ground and picked up rocks for my journal. I knew I needed something to remember these places by. Something I could hold in my hand, take back to my house, unlock my memories.

Something to put under that sheet.

CORINTH!

2012-02-10T11:54:00.001-06:00

Tuesday, the beginning of our exciting trip to the Peloponnese! I stepped on the bus at 8 a.m., anticipation sharing a space with the cereal in my stomach. Corinth was our first stop. Corinth. CORINTH!

The exiting of central Greece and the entrance to the Peloponnese is the Corinthian Canal, which you can bungee jump from. In April. Heck yes. (Maybe? I’m a little scared. A lot scared. Don’t tell the guys in my group that I said that. I’m still trying to act cool.)

And right down the street from the canal is the ancient city where Paul lived for 18 months, working as a tent maker while he converted people.

The temple of Apollo is one of the biggest things still standing in the city:

This is the stone with Erastus' name on it, who was the city of Corinth's director of public works. (Romans 16:23)

The Bema where Paul was brought by the elders of Corinth's synagogue, who accused him of subversive teaching against Mosaic Law. (Acts 18)

The original road in Corinth. So Paul probably stood there. And so did I.

Oh, and here is me posing with the ancient ruins of the city.

So there are the facts, but how did it feel?

Very bizarre. This is the place where Paul wrote the letter to the Romans—one of my favorites. This is the people 1 and 2 Corinthians was written to. Now, when I am reading the Bible and this place is named, I actually have a mental picture. I know what the city looked like, I’ve stood on the street.

In the end, I’m just grateful for the opportunity.

I am and next up, CASTLES!

If We Are the Body

2012-02-05T17:38:00.001-06:00

Regret is a funny thing. We hate it because it can haunt us, but we love it because it keeps us active. Yesterday as I settled into a nap, I got an invite to hike HUG mountain. I was tired, but I knew that next semester when I’m sitting in my dorm room, I’ll give anything to be able to walk across the street and hike a mountain with these people, and the regret of not taking every opportunity will eat me alive.

I’m so glad that I took the opportunity, because these people are joy. They have hearts that warm me, minds that encourage me, words that edify me. Their prayers at the top of the mountain were moving; their sweet voices as we sang to God were full of love.

Ultimately, I believe that is why I am here. Seeing the historical sites, walking where Paul once walked—it’s all incredible. But building these relationships and fully understanding the concept of the church being ONE BODY of believers? I think that’s most important.

Because if these people are the body of Christ—his hands, his feet, his smile—I consider myself the most blessed girl in the world.

(photo cred: Bailee)

“I’ve Been Reading Your Blog, Even Though You Never Update” –Dad

2012-02-05T07:03:00.001-06:00

Γεια σας!

That’s “hello” for all of you non-Grecian friends. And yes I consider myself a Grecian now, what with my love of gyros and my daily residence beside the Aegean Sea.

Although not too Grecian, because the minute I saw a McDonald’s in Syntagma Square in Athens, I was game for a cheeseburger and fries. Nothing says American like a love for grease and fast-food, and I ain’t ashamed folks. Not at all. (Also, I am not ashamed that I just used the word ‘ain’t’ because you can take a girl out of the south but YOU CAN’T TAKE the south out of the girl. Or say they say.)

And well, since we are on the topic of food, I’ll tell you that Coke Zero EXISTS in Greece! So the Route 44 I chugged the day before I came was useless because as it turns out, I won’t be fasting it for months.

Perhaps the best part of mornings in The Artemis (besides getting to eat breakfast on your balcony while soaking up the sunshine and sea air) is that pastries are delivered every morning. It could also be the worst part because I’m pretty sure I’ve gained a few pounds, which I’m going to tell myself I don’t care about. (I care a little. But not enough to stop eating the pastries.)

Now you’re thinking, “that brunette sure is in a lot of pictures in this post.” And it’s true, because we both love food. Something that has bonded us, among other things. So this is Haley, and we’re kind of soulmates:

She is also good at braiding hair:

And I think that about wraps up a post about what I’m eating and how I’m wearing my hair.

I amand I updated, dad! Just for you.

Do As Them Greek Peeps Do

2012-02-01T04:50:00.001-06:00

Oh, there is never a dull moment with this bunch of HUGers. Someone's always either wearing a turban,

modeling by concrete graffiti,

playing dress-up with other peoples clothes (mine) from the laundry room,

eating Nutella crepes,

or hugging in front of the Aegean Sea.

We’re practically native Greeks by this point.

Taste & See That The Lord is GOOD

2012-01-30T17:03:00.001-06:00

God is so good. Tonight I had the opportunity to serve Middle Eastern refugees at a soup kitchen in Athens. Before the bread and spaghetti was served to the 300+ men, women, and children, the story of Abraham being tested was talked about. How God called him to sacrifice his one and only son, and how Abraham didn’t hesitate in being radical for God.

Although not quite the same, I feel in my heart that my group is ready to be radical for God, and tonight was a step in that direction. There we were, in a rundown building in Athens surrounded by Muslims and Greeks alike, passing bowls of pasta down tables, smiling at children, doing everything we could to soak people in Christ’s love.

It was the most diverse setting that I have been in. It was the most unifying thing that I have ever experienced. It was the most Christ-like I have ever felt.

There is power in the name of Jesus. Power to break the chains of poverty, homelessness, racism, hunger, discontentment, and insecurity. Power to bring a small-town southern girl across the world and into an experience that has changed the rest of her life.

It’s funny--we were serving them, and yet I feel like I was the one who was fed.

A HUG For Sun-day’s

2012-01-29T17:37:00.001-06:00

Sleeping until 11:30. Leftovers for lunch. Watching Youtube videos with Haley. Dancing to 90’s music on the bus. Church in Glyfada—finding freedom in Christ. Singing worship songs on the bus ride home. Pizza night at the Artemis. Girl talk with Laura Jo. Pastry stop down the street. Skyping my family. Check rooms (RA duties). Read for bible class (Paul). Goodnight.

HUG Traditions

2012-01-28T18:11:00.001-06:00

Today was the day to take part in semester after semester of HUG tradition: Poet Sandals.

There is a tiny shop in the Plaka of Athens where a man named Melissinos custom fits sandals to your feet. It’s a HUG must, and definitely a highlight of the semester!

I stood in the corner of the little shop while my friends had their sandals fitted, shaved, and cut. The smell of leather was intense, but I welcomed it.

I couldn’t wrap my mind around where I was. Was I seriously in Athens, Greece getting Poet sandals? I had seen this shop in thousands of previous HUGers pictures. And there I was, on a cold Saturday afternoon, paying 28 Euro and squealing as I left.

I bought one pair today, but before the semester is over I am going to get a second. I have a feeling that I will be living in these every day this summer!

After we got our sandals (the main reason we went to Athens) we grabbed dinner and then hopped on the metro back to Porto Rafti. It was cold so we huddled underneath the stairs to block the wind!

When we got home to The Artemis, we had tea time and watched movies. Father of The Bride, and yes I cried.

I am loving HUG more and more every day.

I amand um, I have Poet sandals. So it’s kind of a big deal.

Past Few Days

2012-01-24T10:27:00.001-06:00

The Lords Prayer in Russian (photo cred: my friend Laura Jo)

Sunday was a day of rest. We slept in for the first time, something necessary to overcome the jetlag we were all still feeling. The afternoon was filled with lunch and the beginnings of homework (for other people, I’m a night-before-it’s-due kind of girl) and then church in a nearby city, Glyfada, that night.

Church was a cultural experience like none other. There were Greeks, Russians, and Islamic Muslims turned Christians at service. We learned a song in Russian and Islamic, and prayed in Greek. It’s so incredible how our God unites us all. He understands our different languages, but more importantly, He understands our hearts.

I’m excited for church in Glyfada.

Monday was an exciting tour of the National Archaeological Museum in downtown Athens. We were allowed a late wake-up call, lunch at 11:30, and then we were on the bus, bound for the wonderful city of Athens!

The museum had a lot of interesting things like the golden cup from the Illiad: (blurry, I was in a hurry)

…and some incredible sculptures. The detail in this mans eyes is beautiful. Keep in mind that most of these were created before Christ. Whoa.

Here is the Mask of Agamemnon, which I cannot believe I saw in real life:

…and I thought these babies were PRECIOUS! If I were an artist in 39 B.C. (or whenever) I would have sculpted these as well:

Anyway, we mostly saw a lot of bronze penii:

Today was a normal class day, meaning no arranged trips or tours. I had class until 1:30, lunch, and spent my free afternoon reading for class and falling in and out of sleep.

I told myself that I wasn’t allowed to take naps in Greece. I mean, it’s GREECE! I can sleep in America! But when you are tired because you spent your night having deep heart-to-heart’s and praying with friends, I think a nap is acceptable.

I amand I loooove HUG.

HUG That Mountain

2012-01-21T17:46:00.001-06:00

Class days are chill. You go to your respective classes, chapel, and then after lunch everyone has the afternoon free to explore Greece and learn the culture.

Today a new friend, Laura Jo, and I went for a run. On the coast of the Aegean Sea. It was unreal. Eventually we slowed to a walk just so we could really absorb everything we were seeing.

Something about being surrounded by God’s beautiful creation had the two of us opening up to one another—deep spiritual conversations and self-esteem issues. We’re sort of soul mates, we decided.

After our run and lunch, a group of us hiked the mountain across from The Artemis, affectionately named HUG Mountain.

We were told it was an easy hike, but um, I thought it was tough at times! The fact that I was wearing Converses probably didn’t help.

No matter how strenuous the hike may have been, getting to the top was worth every burning muscle. It was…there aren’t words. You can’t capture it in a photograph or a word.

Our group sat on the rocks and sang worship songs. It was an incredibly sweet moment.

Tonight, we were given Euros to go out for dinner. We walked until we found a pasta place. Spaghetti and pizza were ordered, carbs that tasted much different (and better) than American food.

Pastries were for dessert, and the rest of the evening was spent watching movies and playing card games.

I am amazed how the days seem to keep getting better. What experiences will tomorrow hold?

I am in love with Greece.

I amand Kavu rope bags are the way to go.

It’s All Greek to Me

2012-01-19T15:50:00.001-06:00

I cannot get over this day.

Today, I climbed the steps of the Acropolis. I stood in front of the Parthenon. Today, I listened to Acts 17 be read while sitting on Mars Hill. I climbed the stairs that Paul climbed. I saw the 1896 Olympic Stadium, shopped in the Plaka, and visited the New Acropolis Museum.

I kept thinking, “This is unreal. UN-REAL.”

ancient stadium

just chilling at the Parthenon on a Thursday morning

Temple of Zeus

my HUG roommate, Celeste!

view of the Acropolis from Mars Hill

Mars Hill

ancient steps to Mars Hill

1896 Olympic Stadium, made entirely of marble!

This experience is really bringing the Bible to life. Real, tangible life. To walk where Paul has walked? To sit and hear his sermon exactly where he gave it?!

Mind. Blown.

The wonderful thing is, more is to come!

It is also starting to feel more like home. I can tell that I have an amazing group. We are getting closer every hour.

I amand THE PARTHENON! Are you kidding me?! Whose life is this?

The World Race

2012-01-19T15:28:00.001-06:00

Hello from Porto Rafti, Greece!

On Tuesday, I started narrating the day as soon as I opened my eyes.

“Today’s the day!” I whispered to myself, still snuggled underneath the blankets in Arkansas.

When I got in the shower, I excitedly told myself, “Your next shower will be in Greece!”

And so the day went, with “my last American meal!” (Chili’s in the Chicago airport), “my last glimpse of America” as we took off in Chicago, and you get the idea.

We traveled for what seemed like 789 days, with a long flight across the ocean to London, and another flight to Athens. We were then bused to Porto Rafti!

When we arrived, we were kept awake to avoid jetlag. Instead of sleeping, we went on a walking tour of the city, stopped in a few bakeries and ice cream shops, and had our first Greek dinner—GYROS, bread with olive oil, and greek salads!

After playing a get-to-know-you-game, we all passed out.

At first I was a little homesick. I was excited to be here. Hello, it’s Greece. But I couldn’t help but ask myself, “What am I doing here?”

Today answered that question.

I am gyros are my new favorite food. Pork, no onions.

S.O.S! (a semester in Europe in a 50lb. suitcase)

2012-01-10T01:04:00.002-06:00

Um, hello there last week in America!

That’s right, I leave for Greece in 1 WEEK. I honestly can’t believe it. I don’t really even like to think about it because I have literally 1,764 things to do between now and then. For starters, what in the world do I pack?!

Packing for this trip is a greater stress to my life than watching my precious Razorbacks play against LSU. Or that dumb crimson tide.

To take a break from deciding which cardigan to pack—the pink or the yellow, or both?—I went out for dinner and ice cream with one of my dearest friends, Katie.

I got the Greek pizza (HOLLA!) to you know, get a lil’ cultured before I’m thrust into it. Feta cheese is a definite score, so I’m sold.

EXCEPT WHAT DO I PACK?!

1 week…sheesh.

I amand I’m leaning towards the pink cardigan. Or the yellow…oh, but I also have a green one…

It’s All About Relationships

2012-01-08T22:51:00.001-06:00

“I’m glad to have friends that are so focused on God that when we talk, that’s where the conversation ends up. It doesn’t feel artificial or forced…” writes my good friend Tamzen on her blog. Last week during her stay in town, we met up with fellow church camp counselors to commune over Starbucks goodies.

The chat started generically—“How was your semester?”, “Tell us about Greece!”—but I think we soon found ourselves laying on the basketball court at camp, staring up at the stars and pouring out our hearts.

As I sipped my frappuccino and listened, Tam sent me a text message from across the table.
“I love this :)” it read.

I smiled. I loved it too.

I couldn’t stop thinking of the book of Romans when Paul talks about how we are one body in Christ (Romans 12:5), and how we are to edify and build each other up (Romans 14:9). This is exactly what Christ wanted. For Christians to be able to share our hearts, to encourage each other, to build each other up, to pray for each other, and then to take that into the world.

Too often we get caught up in the routine of Christianity. Go to church on Sunday and Wednesday, take communion, tithe. Check, check, and check.

But Jesus is more into rescue, redemption, and relationships than routine.

He wants a relationship with us. He wants us to have a relationship with each other. If we’re maintaining these, everything else should just come naturally.

Oh how He keeps revealing himself to me.

I amand I’ll never take these friends for granted again.

70’s Love Child

2012-01-06T02:34:00.001-06:00

Today my dear aunt Sara turned 50!

We celebrated with a 70’s theme surprise birthday bash fiesta. A lot of themes going on at this party.

Of course dressing up was necessary:

I was a fan of the fiesta food theme. This salsa was to die for:

Besides being overjoyed at spending time with my entire family, I was stoked that my friend from church camp came into town for a visit!

We are such good hippies:

Oh, and yes she was surprised!

I love my aunt. I remember dancing with her to Cher during late-night sleepovers! Remember Sara, 50 is the new 20, wink wink.

I amand I’m thinking I was born in the wrong decade.

2012 Resolution:

2012-01-05T00:09:00.001-06:00

“Set a fire down in my soul
that I can’t contain and I can’t control;
I want more of you God.
There’s no place I’d rather be than here
in Your love.”

--Set a Fire

I know that God still has a lot to teach me, and I have a deep desire to learn.

This year I hope to lead people to Christ, to look different than the world, to read my Bible in a year, to keep up with my prayer journal. I pray to overcome the things that make my soul ugly; jealousy, hatred, selfishness.

This year I’m running towards the cross.

Found: Blessings

2012-01-03T00:58:00.001-06:00

Christmas was wonderful this year, with family gathering at our house, homemade foods and desserts, presents, laughter, and a lot of love.

My beautiful sister came home for the week. It was great snuggling under an electric blanket with her and griping about boys and school. Also, it’s always nice when she sternly says, “Autumn stop eating all of that fudge.” Because Lord knows I needed to.

Of course, the children in the family keep Christmas exciting! They give us a reason to buy race car wrapping paper and have an Elf on the Shelf.

The next day, I went to lunch at Panera with Kaylee, Katie, and Emma for our “Best friend Secret Santa Exchange. “

I am thrilled that there is such a thing as Christmas break. I have hugged my beautiful friends, spent almost every night with my awesome family, ate delicious food that my momma makes, and most importantly, managed to stay in sweatpants 98% of the time.

I have two more weeks before I leave the country and I am soaking up every moment with these precious people in my life.

I’m Not Like a Regular Aunt, I’m a Cool Aunt

2011-12-29T23:54:00.000-06:00

What is it with children and McDonald’s?

It’s like their Holy Grail. Those golden arches, that mesmerizing play center, those Happy Meals—they cannot get enough.

Today while babysitting my nephew his one request was to have McDonald’s for lunch, and being the cool aunt that I am, I got the boy what he wanted.

His short 6-year old legs carried him right up to the counter where he slapped some money down and said, “I want a cheeseburger. Meat, cheese, and ketchup only please.”

He loved the first cheeseburger, apples, and french fries so much that he requested a second cheeseburger. And like I said, cool aunt. So the boy got a second cheeseburger and he ate every.last.bite.

Don’t you go worrying about childhood obesity. He spent the next six hours running around the backyard with other children in the neighborhood.

I sure am grateful for this spunky little red head.

I amand this little boy keeps me on my toes but I love every second of it!

Proof That I Have No Life

2011-12-26T23:01:00.001-06:00

Christmas Vacation Confessions:

1. I ate an entire bag of peanut brittle yesterday.

2. I made peanut butter fudge to give to my friends but decided to keep it for myself. And the tin of it is on my night stand. #fatgirlproblems

3. I shaved my legs for the first time in…awhile. Look, it’s my MOST HATED thing to do, ever. Plus it’s winter. And I’m single. Whatever, I don’t need to explain myself to you…

4. On Christmas Eve, I went to midnight mass at a catholic church. I’m not catholic. I also sat in the back and was 30 minutes late. (It was a beautiful service!)

5. Usually all I listen to is Coldplay, even though I have almost 2,000 songs in my iTunes library. Sometimes I feel guilty that it’s all I listen to, so I’ll listen to something else for 5 minutes.

6. When people hurt my feelings, I have dreams about them dying. Tragically.

7. I Facebook stalk people I don’t even know just to look at their HUG pictures. I really am a creeper.

8. I’ve been having dreams that I’m in The Hunger Games. And Peeta loves me, not Katniss. I can’t make this stuff up.

9. I’ve almost decided that I’d rather travel the world and live out of a backpack than get married. Almost.

10. I paid $126 to see COLDPLAY LIVE IN DALLAS!!!!!!!

bethy boo & food too

2011-12-23T09:36:00.001-06:00

It’s best if I see Beth in doses, I’ve decided.

She was my suitemate freshman year and has since moved home to Texas, but maybe that isn’t a bad thing, because we bring out the worst in each other.

All I remember about freshman year is driving around Searcy listening to music and eating store-bought donuts, late night McDonald’s runs, piercings and tattoos.

This week when she drove up to Arkansas for a little visit, we made homemade peanut butter fudge:

We dropped by a local bakery for cupcakes of the strawberry and coconut keylime variety:

We had a delicious breakfast of french toast and bacon at a small diner, and spent an evening out with Emma, Morgan, and Kaylee!

We’re big fans of eating, Beth and I.

She’s gone now. Time to start the detox diet!

I amand thanks for visiting me before HUG Bets! Love you long time.

The Hunger Games + Kindle = life.complete.

2011-12-19T03:30:00.000-06:00

My brother and I are close, so when he won a free Kindle, he shot me a text message: “Hey sis, do you want a Kindle?”

I typed back with excitement, “Is that even a real question?!”

And just like that, I became the owner of a shiny Kindle—one I vowed to use, protect, take to Greece, to looove.

That’s when I decided to take the plunge and finish reading The Hunger Games. I had started the first one last semester, and it was time to finish.

I bought the trilogy and I have had this Kindle glued to my hands ever since. I am sucked into the world of Katniss and Peeta.

Have you read them?

I amand back to Catching Fire! It’s going to be a late night.

Peace Out Fall Semester.

2011-12-18T16:54:00.001-06:00

HOLLA! Finals are over and I am home home home.

As you can see, I needed a lot of caffeine and M&M’s when studying for finals. And I often avoid studying by Instagraming pictures of myself. Anything to pass the 2-3 a.m. time.

I was sad to tell my roommates goodbye, I really was. Especially since I won’t be living with them next semester (HUG in 30 days!).

Once I got home, we packed up and headed to Branson for a mini-weekend vacation.

Now we are home and I have NO homework, which means I’m going to finish reading The Hunger Games on my Kindle.

Great to be home!

I amand the HUG countdown is almost in the 20’s. This is unreal.

wrapping things up

2011-12-10T19:59:00.001-06:00

The last Saturday at school meant sleeping until 11. Then it was a lunch date to Moe’s with my Milks. We hit up the salsa bar, drank vanilla Coke Zero (and water), chowed on southwest burritos and quesadillas, all while talking about Christmas vacation, spiritual matters, HUG, engagements, and whatever else our girlish minds thought up.

Now I should be studying for finals, but I’m much more content to lay on the couch and watch Christmas movies. Maybe I’ll bake some cookies?

It really is the most wonderful time of the year.

I amand happy holiday’s everyone. Go eat some Moe’s!

Nothing Says “Happy Holidays” Like a Cow Tongue.

2011-12-09T23:47:00.000-06:00

‘tis the season for functions here at the HU.

Tonight I had the privilege of going to the Gamma Sigma Phi Christmas formal with this great guy. We both are overly obsessed with Coldplay, so what more do you need?

It was a white elephant deal and these were the most epic gifts:

Oh, what’s that in the baggy? It’s definitely a cow tongue. So, there’s that.

He traded his gift for a nice picture of Michael Jackson, who scares me more than that little girl from The Ring.

I was very happy that a lot of my Iota Chi girls were there!

I love them all dearly.

It was a great way to kick off the last weekend before finals!

I amand this was my last function for the year. HUG in 38 days!

Frosty

2011-12-07T00:41:00.001-06:00

Look, winter isn’t my season. It’s cold and I just don’t do well in the cold. I start whimpering when I walk outside and people stare.

But I will tell you that tonight has been magical, because tonight we got our first flakes of snow.

I pulled on my fluffy socks, wrapped up in a fleece blanket, turned up Christmas music and watched the snow fall.

Now I’m hoping for a snow day tomorrow so I can have a Christmas movie marathon. With lots of hot chocolate and popcorn. And sweatpants all day.

Ahhh..

Maybe winter isn’t so bad after all.

I amand I snagged these pictures off of facebook. don’t judge me, it’s too cold to go outside.

Jingle Bell Rock Semi-Formal

2011-12-04T23:43:00.001-06:00

This weekend was Iota Chi’s first annual Christmas semi-formal!

Theme: Jingle Bell Rock
Setting: Harding University

Date: Alison Shaw, otherwise known as Porky. My precious roommate.

We shared a table with this cool group of people. We dominated the Christmas carols charade game and won presents!

Menu: Chicken cordon bleu, baked potatoes, green beans wrapped in bacon, chocolate cake, cheesecake, and rolls. Yeah, we def don’t eat like that every day.

Other activities: 12 days of Christmas game, Iota Chi bingo, and Rock Band. And of course, the 1+ hours of taking pictures.

At the risk of sounding cheesy, it was rockin’!

Maybe next year I’ll ask a boy?

HAHA!

I amand ‘tis the season for Christmas functions!

Will This Semester EVER End?! Plus a Series of Dramatic Webcam Photos.

2011-11-30T21:52:00.002-06:00

Tonight as I walked across campus to the library, I embraced the cold. The front lawn was lit, I could see my breath, and I thought, “Yes! This semester is almost over.”

This semester has been crap. Crap dipped in fungus. Served with a side of chunky milk and sour kraut.

Terrible.

It was busy and emotional and dramatic—not just personally, but for my roommates too—and when I think about it, I just want to roll around on the floor with an IV attached to me that is pumping my veins full of mint chocolate chip ice cream.

There have been a few good moments…I’m sure…give me a few minutes, I’ll think of something good…

Oh yeah, I’m going to HUG next semester. But that’s not even a good thing about this semester so IT DOENS’T EVEN COUNT.

In hindsight I may look back on this semester as a learning experience, but I wouldn’t hold your breath.

I hate to complain because I know how blessed I am, but I’m just keeping it real.

I amand 2 weeks till it’s dunzo. I cannot wait.

Baby, It’s Cold Outside

2011-11-28T23:44:00.001-06:00

Tonight was attending the ceremony of lighting up the front lawn; college night at Zaxby’s; decking Searcy 205 for the holidays; seeing great people at an Iota Chi meeting; joyfully singing Christmas carols; getting asked to a formal; sipping hot chocolate, bundling in jackets, wearing gloves, and seeing snow.

Christmas at Harding is truly magical.

I amand we got creative in the ornament department. Diet Dr.Pepper anyone?

#hognation

2011-11-25T20:03:00.001-06:00

My Arkansas Razorbacks played a great game today against those crazy cajuns (which I can rightfully say, since I’m a Louisiana native) but I think we could all tell that they were suffering from the loss of sophomore Garrett Uekman, who died in his dorm room last Sunday.

The UofA hosted a candlelight vigil to honor his memory.

For Garrett’s family, I pray for peace during this time of suffering.

As far as the Hogs season, 10-2 with losses only to the #1 and #2 teams in the nation?

I’ll take that.

I amand W88 Pig S88ie!

I Got in a Fight at Old Navy—a Black Friday Event.

2011-11-25T18:39:00.001-06:00

With a mug of coffee to keep me alert and Harry Potter to pass the time, I perched myself on the sidewalk outside of Old Navy at 9:30 PM.

The doors were set to open at midnight, and I had gotten a tip that the first 48 insane Black Friday shoppers in line would receive a FREE Kodak EasyShare (waterproof) digital camera.

The first hour was uneventful. I engaged in casual conversation with others in line, sipped my coffee and read a chapter or two.

Around 11, more and more people began to show up, some going to the back of the line, others CUTTING when they found people in line that they knew.

My anxiety went up a few notches. What if I got bumped so far back in line that I didn’t get one of the magical 48 wristbands required for a camera?

I asked a new line-friend to save my spot so I could recount how far back we were.

1, 2, 3…36. I could live with 36.

Then three more people decided to jump the line, and a near riot almost broke out.

“EXCUSE ME? ARE YOU SOCIALIZING OR ARE YOU PLANNING ON SHOPPING?” I heard a voice yell from the back of the line.

The line-jumper stuck her hand to her hip and hollered, “I haven’t decided yet.”

Ohh heck no.

Keeping my mouth closed was hard, but I managed to stay classy. For the time being.

Soon the Old Navy employees came outside and started handing out wristbands to it’s loyal shoppers. When it came to the line-jumper, who was standing right in front of me, to receive “her” band, a woman from the back of the line came up.

“Excuse me, ma’am, but could you not give her a wristband? She cut in front of all these people.”

The woman who cut looked appalled, like, “I can’t believe you just told on me.”

“I was here,” she lied.

I couldn’t.

“Um, no you weren’t,” I said, with so much attitude I could hardly believe it was me.

“Fine, then don’t give me a stupid wristband,” she said, and the employee passed her and attached one to my wrist.

“Oh, look at my wrist! NO BAND! Are ya’ll happy?” she asked, waving her wrists IN OUR FACES.

If ever I’ve wanted to punch someone, it was that moment.

“Yep, because we got ours,” I said, and then re-opened Harry Potter.

When the doors opened, I dashed inside to get my $40 worth of merchandise—two shirts and a pair of pants.

During the 2-hour wait in line to check out, I was the lucky winner of a “Save $1 on your purchase!” card and finished four chapters of HP.

And then this happened: as I stood at the register, I realized my wristband had fallen off. I panicked. I searched the sleeves of my jacket, all of the clothes, and shook out my book. It was nowhere.

“Ok, you don’t have to believe me, but I promise that I waited outside for a wristband for like two hours and I think it fell off or something because I can’t find it,” I cried to the woman at the cash register.

“Your in luck,” she said. “The company sent us 49 cameras instead of 48, so I’ll give you one.”

A wave of relief washed over me. I hadn’t waited for two hours in line for no reason!

And at 3:00 AM, I crawled into my warm bed, another successful year of Black Friday shopping completed.

I amand my camera is blue and shiny. Ooo, ahh.

FULL of thanks.

2011-11-24T11:48:00.001-06:00

I am most thankful to be called a beautiful daughter of God…

I am thankful for my crazy, dysfunctional, loving family…

I am grateful for my best friends that have kept me grounded since kindergarten…

I am thankful for my family at Harding, who are a constant source of strength, wisdom, laughter and light in my life.

I am grateful for my church, who I love and who make me feel so loved…

I am thankful for all of the small, simple things: sunshine, music, tacos, colors, chocolate, flannel sheets, hot showers, Sunday afternoons.

God makes beautiful things out of the dust.

Totes Random

2011-11-21T01:06:00.002-06:00

Two things I must do before embarking on this trip to Europe? Watch The Sound of Music so that the tour will actually mean something to me. Now you’re gasping for air and screeching, “You’ve never seen The Sound of Music?!” And I’m bowing my head in shame. The second thing is to finish Harry Potter so that I can hit up that tour and be well-versed. Like, "This is where THIS happened!” Total fan girl move.

Tonight I spent over an hour reading about home births on Birth Faith. Now I am more convinced than ever to join the hippie birthing community. SOMEONE GIVE ME A BABY! Just kidding, I can wait. Not too long, though.

I found my wedding dress:

You guys, Pinterest is sucking my soul away. CAN’T I HAVE ALL OF THIS STUFF? Fine, if not all of it, someone tell me where I can get that skirt. Tell me, right.now. Ok, and the belt because I’m dying over it. And also, everyone needs a cute jacket like that, right? So if you run across that…

Were you wondering if I’m still listening to Mylo Xyloto all day, everyday?

I am and peace and blessings, my frans.

Let Them Eat Cake.

2011-11-19T22:31:00.001-06:00

Helllllller fellow bloggers, readers, commenters, lurkers, stalkers, and dare I say? Fans.

Last night was one of the most fun nights I have had in a long time.

Actually I’m kidding, I have fun almost every day because I’M THE LIFE OF THE PARTY!

But anyway, last night was a ball and let me tell you why.

I met up with these two sweetie pies at TGI Friday’s to celebrate my 21st birthday:

This girl also joined:

…and so did this girl, with a super cute date. Oh, and my brother and his girlfriend.

Cool huh, single birthday girl?! F-U-N. That’s alright, I’m waiting for the right person, and if he happens to be Chris Martin, and if I happen to meet him on his tour in the U.S., well, I will tell him, “I was single at my 21st birthday party because I was waiting for you baby.”

Which he will like.

Moving on…

After dinner we headed over to Katie’s humble abode for some cake and dancing.

Now listen, I have a love affair with cake. I am a cake lovin’ gal, especially when it’s pink with purple icing and star sprinkles. I’m convinced that it gets no better.

Judging by these faces, I think we’re all cake lovers.

Raise your hand if you’re a cake lover.

I hope you didn’t raise your hand, because I can’t see you and that’s just embarrassing. Plus you ain’t getting my cake.

And then we got super silly, because that’s what we do.

Thank you best friends for a memorable 21st!

Chris, I’m waiting for ya sugar dumplin’.

I amand cake, cake, I love me some caaaaaake.

Sometimes I Pretend I’m a Photographer.

2011-11-17T21:13:00.001-06:00

Today I tried my hand at some photography:

….more to come!

I amand shouldn’t this girl be a model?! Sheesh.

Love Came Down

2011-11-15T22:42:00.001-06:00

The weather forecast predicted rain.

A 90% chance that cold condensation was going to pour from blustery dark clouds, and pour it did, with no reprieve or mercy.

It pooled on the sidewalks and soaked through backpacks.

This day--this cold, wet, gray fall day, which seemed to offer zero possibilities and a large dose of laziness, couldn’t have come at a more perfect time.

I’m in a funk.

Maybe it’s lack of sleep?

Maybe it’s all of the projects and tests that are looming over my head, all due in the next few weeks?

Maybe it’s the stress of trying to save money for a five-month adventure to Europe?

Or maybe it’s that sometimes I never seem to let my soul rest. I refuse to give my problems to God, and as I watched it rain from my second story window this afternoon, I realized why: I don’t trust Him.

I don’t trust that He has forgiven those fairly recent past sins that I cannot forgive myself for.

I don’t trust that when I pray to Him for rest, or to take my worry away, that He physically LIFTS them off of me.

And when I realized my mistrust, I turned to my prayer journal. Here, I thought, is written proof that God delivers.

I flipped through past entries:

9/29/11

“…take these burdens that hold me captive—these thoughts about self-worth and relationships—and free my spirit.”

There it was, burdens that I had prayed about almost two months ago, taken. The last time I worried about my self-worth, about being fat or losing weight? I couldn’t tell you.

Worrying about relationships, or thinking about them in general? It hasn’t been important. I have been given greater opportunities to look forward to. (Hello HUG)

Then I turned to a scripture I had written down—Lamentations 3:19-26.

¹⁹ I remember my affliction and my wandering,
   the bitterness and the gall.
²⁰ I well remember them,
   and my soul is downcast within me.
²¹ Yet this I call to mind
   and therefore I have hope:

²² Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed,
   for his compassions never fail.
²³ They are new every morning;
   great is your faithfulness.
²⁴ I say to myself, “The LORD is my portion;
   therefore I will wait for him.”

²⁵ The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him,
to the one who seeks him;
²⁶ it is good to wait quietly
for the salvation of the LORD.

I was definitely wrong about today. It did hold possibilities, because today, I finally began to forgive myself. Today I re-discovered a God who has never left me, who will never leave me, and who certainly answers prayer.

So I say, let it rain.

I amand I am feeling better.

Give Me a P! Give me an M! Give Me an S! What’s that spell?

2011-11-15T00:36:00.001-06:00

Look, I’m just giving you fair warning to stay away from me this week.

I’m a little ridiculous and over-emotional.

You don’t believe me? This morning I stood in my closet, in tears, because my Chaco’s didn’t look good with my skinny jeans.

I changed clothes three times.

I re-did my hair approximately twenty times.

Half-up? All the way up? It couldn’t be all down, because hey, I didn’t have time to shower and I felt disgusting—another misfortune that had me in tears.

I grew so angry at the wind messing up my hair that I skipped a class, took a shower and napped for three hours.

I let myself eat a lot of chocolate and lounge in sweatpants all night while studying.

And well, I’m still super irritated.

I amand it’s great to be a girl!

Homework, Pumpkin Puree, & Engagements.

2011-11-13T23:20:00.003-06:00

[01] I have so many tests and projects due this week.
Thanksgiving break can’t come soon enough.

[02] HUG money jar! (excuse my poor Greek flag artwork)

[03] Nothing says fall like cans of pumpkin.

[04] Pumpkin chocolate chip batter in my new blue mixing bowl.

[05] The muffins—pumpkin chocolate chip—turned out DIVINE. Like, out of this earthly realm.

[06] Tonight we had a ring ceremony. Here is the girls BEAUTIFUL ring. So original.

I then spent the rest of my weekend getting ahead on homework, eating muffins, watching Friends and freaking out over this weeks episode of Grey’s Anatomy.

I amand I also worked two shifts and had dinner with Morgan. What a weekend.

November 7th-11th:

2011-11-11T13:47:00.001-06:00

1. I’ve been reading Lamentations 3 everyday this week:

“I remember my affliction and my wandering,
   the bitterness and the gall.
I well remember them,
   and my soul is downcast within me.
Yet this I call to mind
   and therefore I have hope:

Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed,
   for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
   great is your faithfulness.
I say to myself, “The LORD is my portion;
   therefore I will wait for him.”

The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him,
to the one who seeks him;
it is good to wait quietly
for the salvation of the LORD.”

That passage is gold, pure gold.

2. Today I had lunch with a previous HUG student who gave me a lot of traveling advice. I am beyond excited! A few places I’m definitely free-traveling to? Dublin, London, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Paris, ROME, Munich, SWITZERLAND. Not to mention the time I’m spending in Greece, Israel and Egypt. 68 days people.

3. Obviously HUG is costing a pretty penny, so I’ve been working at Sonic every weekend to save up as much money as possible. You guys…that job…

4. I hosted my first prayer group last night for some Iota Chi sisters. It was wonderful to come together and share our struggles, and to lift one another up in prayer! I baked oatmeal chocolate chip cookies and we had a very intimate time. Can’t wait until we do it again next week!

5. Thanksgiving break is only 5 school days away. PRAISE!

I amand you’re now all caught up on my week. Exciting, huh?

Rough Night: Cry-Fest Twenty-Eleven

2011-11-05T21:04:00.000-05:00

Among our Rough Night activities were, for us seasoned members, Cardboard Testimonies.

I was the second to take the spotlight, and after watching only a few girls after me, I knew I was not going to make it.

These beautiful girls, my sisters in Iota Chi and Christ, were admitting to things that broke my heart.

“Negative body image./Fearfully and wonderfully made.”

“A newborn died in my arms./God is found in everything.”

“Cancer ate away my father’s soul./There’s a peace I’ve come to know.”

It was intense and emotional, but something that I think bonded us in a beautiful way. Because we all have Christ, we were able to share with each other the deepest despairs of our hearts.

And then we broke into small groups and prayed.

Probably one of the most intimate moments of my life.

I am so thankful to God for breaking my heart last night, and for my new sisters!

our family

2011 pledge class

little sister! can you tell I’ve been crying? ha.

I-OTA CHI, Pink & Black Until We Die!

2011-11-04T14:19:00.001-05:00

It’s Pledge Week here at the HU, which is basically the private christian university’s version of rush.

Usually this week is a lot of fun (for those not pledging) because well, we get to be bossy and make our pledges “earn” their sisterhood.

Nowadays, hazing laws have changed all’a that and it’s basically Friendship Week, 2011.

Like, yay! You made it into Iota Chi by doing absolutely nothing!

I’m not bitter at all…

Oh well, I’ve still got my Pink & Black sPiRiT!

Check out my cute Little Sister:

She’s awesome and we pretty much just talk about HUG a lot because she went last year.

Tonight is ROUGHT NIGHT! I mean “Unity Night.”

Good luck my little Iote babies.

I amand I got my awesome shorts at Goodwill. Hollla!

who needs alcohol?

2011-11-03T00:35:00.001-05:00

21 went a little like this: early morning, skipping chapel, small-town diner, french toast & bacon, presents, laughter, a night class, chocolate chip cookies and red velvet cake, hours at the domestic violence shelter, talks of HUG, pledge week fun, and a lot of love.

I amand I’m a blessed little lady.

Today I Think I’ll Cut My Finger Open

2011-10-30T23:50:00.001-05:00

Dear last weekend of October, you have been quite exciting and memorable! You have also proven to me how tough I am. I mean, first I ran a half-marathon. Got a blood blister, a sore ankle and a bum knee. No big, I’m a hoss and can deal.

Then, my loan was approved and I officially joined the HUG spring 2012 group. Extreme excitement over this!

Sunday’s excitement? On a whim I decided to make sweet potato fries. Well, the knife slipped (probably because I was more focused on watching Halloweentown than the knife)and I ended up in urgent care for 3 stitches and a tetanus shot:

Don’t feel bad for me, though. It actually didn’t hurt at all. Brette, my awesome roommate, was just as excited as me about getting stitches.

The nurse was all, “You need stitches for that deep thing,” and we were both like, “Yes!”

Weird, I know.

Also, my FAVORITE holiday is tomorrow (HAPPPPPY HALLOWEEN!) and my 21ST BIRTHDAY IS TUESDAY!

Over and out, October. Thanks for the fun.

I amand do you know how hard it is to wash your hair with one hand?

Only Read This If You Like HUGE Announcements!

2011-10-29T19:39:00.001-05:00

I can wait no longer to tell you, I’m studying abroad in:

NEXT SEMESTER!

I will be living in Porto Rafti, Greece (about an hour from Athens) which looks like this:

I will also be traveling to the Peloponnesian Peninsula (Corinth, Mycenae, Epidaurus), Athens, Delphi, Northern Greece, Israel or Turkey, a Mediterranean cruise, and Egypt!

We also have 3 weeks of free travel when they pretty much say, “Have fun in Europe!”

And guess what?!

I’m taking you along. You get to read allll about it!

80 DAYS until I leave!

I amand I’ve NEVER BEEN THIS EXCITED! In.My.Life.

p.s. a HUG (Harding University-Greece) documentary trailer.

13.1 Miles Before Breakfast

2011-10-29T17:23:00.002-05:00

Running a half-marathon is an incredible experience that I will never forget!

This morning I was a mess. My nerves were out of this world, I was so terrified.

Ali and Brette, the most awesome roommates in the world, came out to support me!

Ah! And so it begins, 13.1 miles to go!

Mile 1: I made a friend in the starting line, and we kept the same pace. This mile went by in a flash.

Mile 2: Grabbed some Gatorade at the aid station (while still running, that was always a mess!) and my friend slowed to a walk. We parted ways then.

Mile 3: I remember thinking, “I just did a 5k! That was so easy. 10 more miles!”

Mile 4: Brette and Ali were at the four-mile marker. I was SO excited to see them!

Mile 5: This mile went by really fast! I still had an awesome energy level and was rocking out to Somebody To Love.

Mile 6: Free Gu at the aid station! It was vanilla bean flavor. Looooved it. That stuff is good.

Mile 7-8: I was still smiling. Like, I hadn’t stopped since I started. I was feeling AWESOME and extremely proud of myself.

Mile 9: As I approached mile 9, I was really nervous. That’s usually when I hit “the wall.” However, at the mile 9 marker there was a huge aid station lined with pink balloons and people shouting, “Go Autumn! You got this!” I was very encouraged. Then I saw Ali and Brette again! (I never hit “the wall.” I was still feeling great.)

Mile 10: My legs started to feel pretty tight, and my lower back was hurting. I didn’t stop though. I was definitely determined. And still smiling? Yeah.

Mile 11: Girls Who Run The World by Beyonce came on and I started dancing. I was pumped up! I couldn’t believe I only had 2 miles left. It was surreal!

Mile 12: I saw the mile 12 marker and I teared up. Chin started quivering. I had ONE MILE left! How had I done this so easily?! I was shocked with myself. Also, there was a huge hill and my calves were burning.

Mile 13: DOOOOOONE! I DID IT!!! AHHHHH! Clocks by Coldplay was playing and the moment was indescribable!

A medal was thrown around my neck and foil was wrapped around me to keep me warm.

Then I chowed on some free pizza and granola bars.

Seriously, this was one of the most fun things I have ever done. It was incredible!

I loved the crowds cheering me on and inspirational signs everywhere! Some of my favorite signs were:

Run with your sexy calves!

Run today, brag tomorrow!

We can’t all be heroes. Someone has to cheer you on!

You are NOT almost done. (At mile 3, I thought that was pretty funny.)

I can’t wait to do this again!

I amand a half-marathon before I turn 21? CHECK!

p.s. Gu saved my life. I had one (chocolate) right before the race, one at the 6th mile and one at 9.5 miles. Definitely recommend this to you runners.

Grab My Flag and See What Happens.

2011-10-28T01:35:00.001-05:00

As far as sports go, I’m not very good.

I know, I know, I’m good at everything. But really I’m not—don’t let my good hair days fool you.

And I’ve figured out why I’m not a gifted athlete.

It’s because I’m smart.

Hear me out: in almost every sport, there is a ball flying at you.

Me (smart person)? Yeah, I’m definitely going to duck.

You (dumb/athletic person)? You’re going to run around, looking into the sky, hoping that you can catch it before it disfigures your face.

Putting all of that aside, however, I signed up for Iota Chi softball. And flag football.

Softball was laughable. I hardly ever played because I NEVER HIT THE BALL! One time I got to pity-run, which was ya know, not embarrassing at all.

I turned things around with football, though.

The coaches put me on the defensive line and MY, OH MY I took some girls out.

Our team ended up making it to the Small Club Sports Championship, and while we lost in over-time, it was a great game.

So I renig my previous statement. I’m not terrible at sports, I’m terrible at softball.

As far as football? Mad. Skills.

I amand don’t let my war paint intimidate you.

I Have a Restless Spirit

2011-10-26T19:33:00.001-05:00

After college I don’t plan on getting a job. Not right away, no.

My heart pounds when I think of these alternatives:

The World Race

Peace Corps

I hope that something like this is in God’s plan for my future.

Going into the world and releasing the kingdom of God? I can think of nothing that I want to do more.

I amand I want to do this NOW! Do I have to graduate first?

I Heart Butterbeer

2011-10-25T23:34:00.001-05:00

It’s “I Heart HU Week” here at the HU, and they are doing it BIG!

There are different festivities everyday to celebrate our love for this fabulous school, and today was a fall fest, Quidditch, and THERE WAS BUTTERBEER!

First drink:

Reaction:

I love days like today.

Salted Caramel Apple Latte with a friend, weekly venting session with a great group of girls, and club football games!

Life couldn’t be better on this front.

Coldplay > Other Bands

2011-10-23T23:49:00.001-05:00

What kind of crazy obsessive Coldplay fanatic would I be if I didn’t PUBLICALLY FREAK OUT about Mylo Xyloto, their newest album?!

It’s like a mythical journey into a land of lyrical genius and techno-awesome music.

Good gravy, my ears have died and gone to heaven.

I amand I can’t even pick a favorite song. They are all fantastic. #nerd

Barn Bash 2011 – Troop Beverly Hills!

2011-10-23T17:50:00.001-05:00

It was over the summer while talking on the phone that Porky and I decided that being Girl Scouts for Halloween was a good idea.

I mean, we had our old uniforms, so why not?

Yes they still fit. I was also amazed.

Jill was our cute box of Tagalongs (what are Girl Scouts without their cookies?) and Brette was our loving mom.

Friday was Iota Chi’s annual Barn Bash.

It was a great night! We played games, roasted hot dogs and s’mores, and went on a hayride.

This is seriously the good life.

Recap of a Week When I Didn’t Blog

2011-10-22T21:59:00.001-05:00

Oh hey, I didn’t die if you were wondering, although for most of the week I have felt like it.

That’s right, I’ve been sickly. Runny nose, watery eyes, scratchy throat, coughing, the chills. It’s been a never-ending cycle of hydration, medication and tissues.

These sweet leather boots and corduroy pants took me to the doctor on Tuesday:

I am loving fall.

Then, despite being ill, a woman paid me $20 to bake 60 cupcakes for her sons birthday party. A poor college girl will do just about anyyyyyything:

This morning after baking muffins and watching Jumanji, Jill and I trekked out to Thackerland for flea marketing.

It was a whole lot of junk and a whole lot of awesome.

Tonight we made chicken and rice, got free Frosty’s from Wendy’s and watched Harry Potter.

Another good week around these parts!

I amand stay tuned for a Barn Bash post. We were Girl Scouts. It was awesome.

True Life: I’m a Harry Potter Virgin

2011-10-14T22:32:00.001-05:00

October 13, 2011: a day which shall live in infamy.

I opened (for the first time in my life) Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and began reading.

Now you’re all, “Al! How have you NEVER READ HARRY POTTER?!”

I know, what an atrocity.

Honestly it’s not that I never wanted to read it. My parents jumped on that whole “HARRY POTTER IS EVIL MAGIC” bandwagon and banned it from our humble abode.

So I found better things to do, like starting a science club in the fifth grade. We met during recess in the library. It was kind of a big deal—invite only.

Funny thing is I’m terrible at science.

Where was I?

Ah, Potter.

Turns out it’s pretty good. Like, really good. I had to force myself to put the dang thing down so I could blog, that’s how much I care about ya’ll.

Another random thing I’ve been doing since yesterday?

Listening to Nirvana.

Another random thing I’ve been doing?

Apparently having mini photo sessions with books on my webcam.

Living large this weekend, my frans. (Slang for friends. See how that works?)

WOO! FALL BREAK 2011!

I amand is it awkward that I used the word ‘virgin’ in my title? Probably is now.

Symbolism

2011-10-13T22:44:00.001-05:00

“Tell me if this is weird,” I said to Milks one warm afternoon as we talked on the front lawn.

She’s my kindred spirit, after all. Whom else could I trust for an honest answer?

“Shoot.”

I rolled my body over the soft fleece material of the blanket we were lounging on and stared up at the sky.

“Do you feel like you’re a deep thinker? Like, more so than other people?”

“Sometimes, why?”

“I don’t know. I feel like I think about things too much. I’m always trying to figure myself out.”

She nodded and said, “I do that too.”

“But really, I am always having like, personal revelations. And thinking.”

“Revelations about what?”

Then I gave it to her, the thoughts that have been formulating in my brain. Me, really, and the things I seem to constantly be learning about myself.

How this year I am feeling more confident and more comfortable with who I am as a person, and why I believe that is. Spiritual things about what I believe God wants for my life, and the path I see Him leading me down. Future things, like what to do with my summer. Internships, counseling, Africa, missions?

That’s the wonderful thing about my Milks. She listens, she hears, she advises, and when it’s all over, when the seriousness of conversation is weighing heavy, she begs for my famous Fake Laugh. Which she receives, because hello, did you read the topics I bogged her down with?

It’s give and take, though, because then I listened to her deep thoughts. (And tweeted, because my multitasking skills are out of this earthly realm.)

In the end, she never gave me a yes or no answer.

She simply helped me fold the blanket and zip it away in her backpack.

I am and did I use 'whom’ correctly? I haven’t a clue.

p.s. Have you met Milks? We’re silly. Introducing:

Tis My Season

2011-10-12T21:02:00.001-05:00

October has brought: chili and ice-cream dates with friends.

Reading through the word (more) and growing closer to God.

Listening to a few songs over and over.

Going on weekend hiking dates.

And like every month, a lot of time spent with my goofy friends.

I am and I told you I love October!

Crack o’ Dawn

2011-10-10T12:49:00.001-05:00

I am the best roommate and let me tell you why.

Today Porky’s boyfriend had to leave his weekend vacation and get back to college in New York. His flight left at 6:30 AM, which meant a 4:00 AM wake-up call for me.

I literally rolled out of the bed, brushed my teeth and left. Which is really when I am most attractive, if you were wondering.

The payback? She bought my Salted Caramel Mocha from Starbucks, a life-changing nectar from heaven in a cup, all steamy and delicious and thick and salty and caramely.

Another thing about me (you’re always wanting to know more) is that when I don’t get a lot of sleep, I get reeeeaaalllly giggly. Everything is hilarious.

So we had a lot of laughs.

We’re awesome road trip buddies, Porky & I.

Ok, this post should have ended a long time ago. Maybe it shouldn’t be Published?

I amand she didn’t actually pay for me, she owed me $4 anyway. I don’t have to be bribed into a good road trip.

p.s. Sorry for the absence. Sometimes you just aren’t feeling it, ya know?

All Who Are Thirsty

2011-10-04T01:10:00.001-05:00

Placed on my heart and mind this week:

-God always answers prayer, but we often miss it because we are expecting His answer to be in blessing form. He is not just a God who gives, but a God who takes.

-Do you believe in the power of prayer, or do you believe in the power God has to answer prayers?

-Satan cannot be everywhere, for he is not omnipresent. He cannot see your thoughts. To believe that is to hold him beside God. Scripture talks about Satan “prowling around like a roaring lion.” (1 Peter 5:8) He travels.

-You cannot be saved by works. You can never do enough. There is freedom in Christ. There was a transference—He became sin, who knew no sin, so that IN HIM we might become the righteousness of God. (2 Corinthians 5:21)

-If you are having trouble forgiving yourself for sin, stop. God has forgiven you, and to not forgive yourself is to hold yourself higher than Him.

-Oh how He loves you.

-God said “let there be light” and there was light. He spoke everything into existence. You are beautiful because God says you are, and because you are created in His very image. Stop picking yourself apart in the mirror. You.Are.Beautiful. There is no question. You just are.

-God’s glory is what defines you.

I am and God is overwhelming me in the most incredible of ways.

Hobo Suppppppa

2011-10-01T20:59:00.001-05:00

Tonight was my church’s annual:

It was at a beautiful location:

And there was delicious food. Hobo soup, homemade bread, and freshly baked cookies, cupcakes, and brownies galore!

After eating we hopped on the trailer for a hayride:

Then, Grace and I paired up to dominate the egg toss:

…which we did not do, but we did make it through several rounds!

It was a great night spent with these wonderful friends:

I am tremendously blessed with an amazing church family.

Helloooo October, please stay this awesome.

I am and those saweet moccasins? Yeah, I definitely inherited those from my great-grandmother.

On This October’s Eve

2011-09-30T23:59:00.001-05:00

Look, October is my favorite month and what do you do when it’s the eve of your favorite month?

You celebrate. Live it up. Party. Whatever the cool kids are doing, you do it, because IT’S OCTOBER! Well almost.

Arkansas hasn’t caught wind of the seasons changing and today was another warm one, so I opted for some large-print flower power. And sandals. Yes, all of you Fashion Police are like, “IT’S AFTER LABOR DAY!”

Whatevvvvver.

Tonight we whipped up some homemade Butterfinger’s. Which reminds me, tonight I discovered Pinterest. Let’s just call it what it is: an obsession, and I’m taking no prisoners.

Recipe? Only if you’re prepared to go into an intense sugar coma, because these things are no joke.

You’ve been warned.

Oh boy this night get’s better: we watched Bridesmaids, played The Marriage Game (one of the only card games I’m good at it) and that led to a lot of secrets being divulged.

As Brette says, “What happens on free travel stays on free travel,” so I’m saying: “What happens in Searcy 205 stays in Searcy 205.”

Welcome October, it’s good to see you again.

I am and cue the name jokes! “Hey, it’s YOUR season.” Right you are.

Thankful Thursday

2011-09-29T15:44:00.001-05:00

for:

lunch with dad
leftovers
precious children at the hospital today (who dominated me at Candyland)
warm weather (90+) & sunshine
awesome lectures this week
2 canceled classes tomorrow
dinner for a friends birthday
Psalm 91:4
my dad was in town & took me grocery shopping
time spent with my school family (cozy blankets, Modern Family, lots of laughter)
muffin Wednesday’s (blueberry and banana nut this week)
A+ on a test
newfound (amazing) songs:

I am also in constant prayer for a family friend who lost their precious Sophia to SIDS. Please join me in praying for comfort & peace.

Oh, Lately:

2011-09-28T21:46:00.001-05:00

♥uno
Ali cooks spaghetti.
♥dos
What the world needs now is more Nutella & less of everything else.
♥tres
Powerful reminder that He never leaves.
♥cuatro
Giant Brette, midget Autumn.
♥cinco
Chaco’s. I’m officially a Harding student.
♥seis
We always have a bowl of chocolate around.
♥siete
Jersey Friday!
♥ocho
In class, we were told to think of who has broken our hearts & then to rip the paper to shreds. Later we symbolically put them back together. Can you tell my major is mostly girls?

I am and I’m featured at Hannah Explains It All. Check it out! You can never have enough of me. Wink.

on my heart

2011-09-27T23:57:00.000-05:00

He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection.
--Psalm 91:4

Today I attended a lecture given by a girl who has lost her mother.

She shared Psalm 91:4 and it has been on my heart all day.

The Lord is amazing, overwhelming, and unchanging.

His goodness never ceases to amaze me.

His mercy never ceases to save me.

He is always there.

-----

I am incredibly in love.

-----

TGIM.

2011-09-26T20:14:00.001-05:00

{1} Brette and I like to check our blood pressure when we go to Walmart. We also eat dinner at 5 PM and watch a lot of TLC. Pretty much, we’re old women.

{2} My good friend Sarah got engaged this weekend and I am SO thrilled for them! She asked me to take their Save the Date photos. I’m nervous and excited! And I’m not usually the girl that freaks out about the ring, but isn’t hers beautiful?!

{3) I WANT THESE PANTS! And see, I think I’m meant to get them. I was lusting after them on the Maurice’s website, and the very.next.day a girl in one of my classes had them on. I’m taking that as a sign.

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I am and you like these random posts, I know you do.

Go Shawty, It’s Your Birthday!

2011-09-25T00:06:00.001-05:00

September: Birthday Motherlode!

Today I attended a birthday party in honor of a few great friends of mine—Grace, Claudia, and Joshua.

Theme: Black-tie Masquerade Activities: a murder mystery game, pizza, movie trivia, sneaking views of the Arkansas/Alabama game (let’s not talk about it), Xbox, mint chocolate chip ice cream, and napping.

Can I tell you a funny story? In the murder mystery, I played a character who had recently been broken up with by another character, played by my recent ex-boyfriend. We had fun with that. Ha. Haha.

Of course I was the #1 suspect when he was murdered:

Maybe I really am plotting his murder? But you didn’t hear that from me.

(Nahh, I have more class than that, don’tcha know.)

After we solved the mystery, we chowed on ice cream cake and then I conked out for about an hour. No lie. Who falls asleep at a party?

I think that qualifies me for the senior discount at IHOP, just sayin’.

Any party that offers me entertainment, food and a nap, I give 5 stars:

*****

Happy Birthday Grace!

Happy Birthday Claudia!

Happy Birthday Joshua!

I amand let’s do this again next year, same time?

Found

2011-09-23T23:45:00.001-05:00

I could give you full details of my wonderful day and of the awesome Iota Chi picnic function tonight, but instead I’ll just say:

Happiness Found.

I am and we won the three-legged race, oh yes we did.

I Prayed For God To Truly “Use Me” & He Is.

2011-09-21T19:34:00.001-05:00

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us in Christ Jesus, so we can do good things he planned for us long ago.” –Ephesians 2:10

Oh my, the plans God is revealing to me.

If you had told me four years ago that I would be going into a profession that centers around kids suffering from chronic illnesses, I would have called you a liar.

If you had told me two weeks ago that I would have an internship this semester at a battered women’s shelter, I would have laughed at you.

God hasn’t just taken me out of my comfort zone. He has pushed me off of a ledge and into a sea of unknowns, and some situations have been hard to deal with.

I found out that the dialysis isn’t working for one of the little boys I worked with in the hospital. It’s been a long and hard battle for him.

Today at the shelter a woman called the hotline but all we heard was screaming before the phone was disconnected.

It’s tough.

Then there are the wonderful things, like the sweet moment when a child gave me a sticker that said, “BFFs Rule!”

Or when I was helping a woman at the shelter pick out clothes, and she thanked me over and over again for being there, for choosing cute clothes, for smiling with her.

I never thought that God’s plans would lead me here, or that my heart could handle all of the stresses/fears/joys that these plans of His have created, but I am so happy that they have.

He truly does know what I need, and I am blessed to be called His masterpiece.

This Post Gets Better, Believe Me.

2011-09-19T21:32:00.001-05:00

September nineteenth, what a day.

I don’t want to bore you by telling you every detail of my super productive day, but will you endure if I promise you pictures of various types of candy corn?

Good.

So today I went to chapel, studied for a test, went to classes, cleaned three loads of laundry, went grocery shopping, took care of “Official Treasurer Business”, ate Zaxby’s for $3, AND ran 4 miles.

Shoot.

WAKE UP! You survived the boring part of the post.

Now as promised, here are pictures of the variety of candy corn we keep around these parts. It’s an an addiction and we have zero shame.

Candy Corn, Candy Corn M&M’s and Candy Corn TAFFY!

Bless the inventors of these delicious sugary treats.

I am and I’m not taking sides or anything, but the M&M’s had me at first bite.

Beautiful Things

2011-09-16T23:57:00.000-05:00

You make beautiful things,
you make beautiful things out of the dust.
You make beautiful things,
you make beautiful things out of us.

Listen:

I am and I love my God, I love those lyrics, I love those people, and I love this life. Blessed. Just so blessed.

Joyful Joyful

2011-09-13T23:55:00.001-05:00

Fall semester started out rough in Searcy 205, with two of us post-break up and one in a long distance relationship.

It’s been a keep-chocolate-around, eat-ice-cream-out-of-the-carton kind of month so far, with a lot of heart-to-heart’s and tears.

Tonight Milks came into my room and curled up in my plush purple chair.

We listened to Coldplay in silence before I asked, “What’s on your heart, Milks?”

She told me how sad she was over her ended relationship, she told me that it all felt fake, she told me that days before it ended, she had given it up to God and truly believed that He led her to this outcome, to this ending.

Then she said something very profound: “I’m not happy, but I am joyful.”

I pondered that for awhile.

I washed my face and as I scrubbed, I thought about it.

While I brushed my teeth, the idea swished around in my mouth.

I let it marinate in my heart.

Not happy, but joyful.

These past few weeks I have been so focused on getting back to my true ENFP self. My roommate has said to me, “I don’t like it when you’re like this. You’re the happiest person I know, and I don’t know what to do when your sad.”

So I forced it while I continued with my life. I went out and ate gelato, I danced in the car, I played softball, accomplished a 9-mile run, but the sadness never left. It was always in the back of my mind, and I was always trying to force it out.

Be happy, Autumn. You need to get over this and be happy.

Now I’m wondering why that was ever my mentality.

I have a right to be sad. It hurts, and most of the time (if we’re being honest), I’m not happy because it’s constantly on my mind.

That’s okay though, because I am joyful.

I am encouraged by the sunshine, I am blessed by my friends, I am enlightened through God’s word, I am thriving in new experiences that have presented themselves, and my heart is joyful.

As for the happiness, that will come.

And until then, I’ve got the joy.

Could Be Paradise. Or Just Monday.

2011-09-12T20:42:00.001-05:00

a. If you know me at all, you know that I LOVE COLDPLAY. Looooove like whoa. Today their new single Paradise was birthed and I cannot stop listening. Oh-em-gee.

b. I’m writing my first paper of the semester and it’s about “The Importance of the Fun Factor in Play Therapy.” I love my major!

c. It was college night at Zaxby’s tonight. Which translates to dinner for $3.69. $3.69! If that isn’t winning I don’t know what is.

d. I applied to counsel at a camp retreat in October and I would love the opportunity! Keep your fingers (toes and shoes strings) crossed that I get it!

e. Oh hey, I ran 9 miles yesterday. My body hates me today, but 9 MILES! I never thought I’d see the day. 69% trained for a half-marathon, which is in 47 days. Eek!

And with that, out.

A Really Awesome, Fabulous, Super, Fantastic, Incredible, Wonderful Weekend.

2011-09-11T13:34:00.001-05:00

Attention: I’m sorry I haven’t blogged in days. I was busy having the best weekend of my life, and that is no exaggeration.

Ok, it’s a little bit of an exaggeration but not by much.

My suitemate from freshman year drove up from Texas for a little weekend visit.

On her weekend itinerary was:

1. Dinner out for Porky’s birthday

2. Picking up delicious gelato from ZaZa’s. Flavors included maple pecan, cookies & cream, lemon berry, and tiramisu.

3. A stroll down the BIG Dam bridge in Little Rock.

4. A hike up Pinnacle mountain.

F.Y.I. Do not wear Jesus sandals. What on earth was I thinking?

(Funny, we got lost and didn’t make it to the top. But we still found an awesome view!)

5. Playing at the Pangburn park.

6. And she couldn’t leave Arkansas without meeting our zonkey friend, Trouble.

Dear Bets, I am so happy that you came for a visit! Thanks for making my freshman year as awesome as it was. Also, thanks for the maple donut and gansta-rap CD. Come back to Harding! kthanksbye.

Dear Readers, come visit me and I’ll show you a good time. Like so.

I am and don’t really come visit me. Unless I really know you. Because that could be weird. And scary.

Moments Between the Footsteps

2011-09-07T20:54:00.001-05:00

The passing of Labor Day has the nostalgia setting in.

With school three weeks in and the temperature in the mid-70s, summer is officially over.

I’m sad to see it go. I do love fall and the lovely things it has to offer—football, chili, sweaters, hot chocolate, Halloween (the best holiday), corn mazes, pumpkin EVERYTHING—but there is something magical about the summertime, and this one proved no less.

I kicked the summer off with a family-friendly Memorial Day cookout:

…went to the beach with my best friends:

…and spent a lot of time with some really great people (kids, friends/fellow counselors, boy) at (camps, mission trips, retreats):

Those experiences are more than just memories. They are people that have become so precious to me; they were learning opportunities; they were good, they were bad; they were enormous blessings.

None of them were largely life-changing, but they all played a part in what comes next, whatever that is.

They were the moments between the footsteps, and I am so thankful.

I am and I’ll let you know what happens next.

Miscellanies Include: Pictures, Jesus, & a Homemade Music Video.

2011-09-05T22:48:00.001-05:00

1. I’m more than obsessed with the iPhone Instagram app.

2. When I take time out of my day to explore God’s word, He reveals himself to me in beautiful ways. Today I read this verse:

“How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord Almighty! My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.” –Psalm 84:1-2

3. 101 FOLLOWERS?! Shut the front door. I am super flattered/excited, see? For realz, thank you thank you thank you. Thank you.

4. I can’t dance. Never have been able to, never will be able to. But oh boy, that didn’t stop me from making a music video 5 years ago with my best friend. Look, I can’t even believe I’m sharing this, but it makes me laugh so hard that I cry and it will probably make you do the same. Disclaimer: This video contains awful make-up and me (attempting) to take my clothes off. Hey, it was hot in hur. Also, I was 15.

Alright, I’ll shut up and roll the film:

Notice: We don’t know all the words, Katie has grillz, and somehow she ends up with the hat.

I am and if you unfollow me now, I won’t hold it against you.

Over the Hills & Through the Woods, to Barton Bible Camp I Go.

2011-09-04T23:47:00.000-05:00

Labor Day weekend had me retreating to my favorite place on the planet, Barton Bible Camp.

I went for selfish reasons, really. I knew that if anyone could brighten my spirits, it was the teenagers I spent my summer with.

I also knew that they are the only people that think my made-up words, such as cray-cray and totes, are cool, which is a huge ego boost for me.

I love (love, love, love) them and I miss them already.

I am and I am counting down the months until camp next summer.

August 31, 2011: You Were Good to Me

2011-08-31T23:39:00.001-05:00

I want to remember today, because today things started looking up.

Today brought: warmth and sunshine, Sonic Happy Hour runs and goofy times with friends.

Today I: ran 8 miles (holla!), made a Nutella wrap with diced strawberries inside, didn’t get a parking ticket, and sang How He Loves on a swing with my sweet friend.

Today someone: asked me how I was, to which I said, “Well it wasn’t the first thing I thought about yesterday, but it was today. So there’s that."

Today I am so thankful for: Harding, amazing friends, prayer, long talks, and meaningful hugs.

Today I read this quote:

“Wherever your challenges lead you, there is something to learn there.”

What I’ve learned?

That I am ridiculously blessed beyond anything I can ever deserve. God has truly given me the best family, the best friends, the greatest experiences--just a beautiful, beautiful life.

I am and like I said, things are looking up.

Daily Inspiration

2011-08-29T22:07:00.001-05:00

…around the apartment:

I am and I don’t even watch The Office.

Break-up Survival 101

2011-08-28T23:00:00.001-05:00

Top 10 things you need to get you through:

1. Sweatpants

Or Nike shorts. Just something comfortable. I opted for my purple skinny-leg sweats, but it varies from break-up to break-up.

2. A playlist

If you’re anything like me, during the Sad stage you’ll want to break out the ultra-depressing music. I’ve got Warning Sign, We Never Change, and A Message by Coldplay on a continuous loop. And To Build a Home for good measure. But mostly Warning Sign. Listen, you’ll understand.

For the Angry stage, it’s all about Best Thing You Never Had and angry rap music.

3. Friends

You need friends that will drop their weekend plans to join you on the couch to cry. Thankfully, I live with three of those. And I have my four best friends from home who offered to drop everything and drive to my college with Ben and Jerry. Yes, these are the people you need. (Sorry, my friends are taken.)

4. Food

Food, food and more food, but just for the Shock stage. My Shock stage included Domino’s pizza and homemade oreo’s in mass quantities. As for the Sad stage, you won’t be able to stomach food so don’t even try. It’s a waste of money. (There’s $5 of DCB I’ll never see again.)

5. Cry

Don’t try to be strong. Let it out, honey. I only cried once on the day of. Saturday…well, I didn’t sleep at all that night and then I sobbed for the rest of the day. It’s therapeutic, even if it sucks.

6. Activities

This is probably the most crucial part: stay busy. DO NOT lay in the bed all day and think about it. I baked cookies and then my friends took me to the lake where we cliff-jumped, swam and tanned.

7. Exercise

Exercise is great for 2 stages: Shock and Anger. During Shock, running can help you process the information. During Anger, running can keep you from killing someone.Plus it burns off that pizza and oreo’s.

8. Drive

Going for a drive is the best way to cover a lot of bases: girl, listen to the Playlist, eat some oreo’s, and cry at the same time. In your sweatpants. Quadfecta. (I just made that word up.)

9. Clean

It’s sort of symbolic if you think about it—clean everything around you. Vacuum, wash dishes, scrub the shower, wash the laundry. Get everything gross out of the way (symbolically: sad/pathetic feelings) and put everything where it belongs (symbolically: good feelings/life back in order).

10. God

This is most important. If anyone can take your pain away, it’s your Father. He cares about your problems, even if a break-up seems trivial to third-world hunger and Hurricane Irene. His affections are great for you, and that is the most amazing thing.

I am and I’m on the prowl.

Words I Couldn’t Say

2011-08-27T02:18:00.001-05:00

This is long. This is a lot of word vomit. This is how I feel right now. I didn’t edit anything out or re-read it. Sometimes I hate that my blog is so public to people that I know in real life because pushing Publish on this post would be a lot easier if it wasn’t. But I process things through writing…that’s just how I do. In the end, I’m always going to be as candid as possible here.

Throughout our entire relationship I had a hard time being open.

Maybe it’s because I was constantly waiting for the other shoe to drop. I had been told you were out of my league for so long that I let those words seep into the deepest part of me.

I couldn’t give everything to you because I knew deep down that things couldn’t last. Not with me putting you so far above me.

I tried, I really did.

One day I knew I was beginning to trust you more when something exciting happened and my first thought was, “I can’t wait to tell him about this.”

As soon as those feelings came though, you started to check out.

You were always busy and you never wanted to hang out, and I knew that what I had always expected to happen was happening.

That’s why I took it so well today. I expected it, it was no surprise to me.

One of the only things that makes me mad about everything is that for you, this was just a relationship that lasted a little over a month and you don’t have that much to get over.

You started to like me over the summer, pursued that, we dated, and as quickly as all of that happened you were done.

Which is fine. If you want out, if it just wasn’t there for you, that’s ok, and you don’t need to feel bad about that.

But I liked you for two years. Two years. And I never pursued a relationship with you. I had decided being your friend was better than risking telling you my feelings and ruining the friendship we had.

You liked me for two minutes and told me, and I told you how I had always felt. That’s when you should have realized that dating you wasn’t a small thing to me. It was a big, big deal.

And you went for it.

As for everything else, I’m not mad at you. I still think you are a wonderful, wonderful guy and at this point, I don’t regret dating you.

I don’t know if I’ll post this. You may never even read it, and it’s more for me than anything. I guess in the end, I just want you to know that I did care. Do care.

I tried to hide that because I wanted to be the one that handled it well. But I don’t want you to translate that into me not caring, because I did. Do.

I’m sorry that this was the realest I ever got with you.

Thankful Thursday

2011-08-25T16:15:00.001-05:00

Today I am oh so thankful for:

Roommates who pray with me
Discussing our day every night, our “family time”
Baking muffins together at 11 p.m.
My treadmill was open at the gym
Dinner with my dad (mexican, my favorite!)
A Bad Dream
One class today
No parking tickets
These suckers (fall is near!)
Sunshine

And in the midst of a few health problems concerning my mother, I have to say that I am thankful for a God who is the ultimate healer, who holds each of us in his hands, and who loves us so much.

Man I Love College

2011-08-21T23:36:00.001-05:00

Thursday was a good day, because Thursday I moved back to school!

Since then, I have been doing normal college things, like unpacking, decorating, going to sketchy tattoo shops for belly button piercings (not my own, what do you take me for?), and celebrating birthdays! (Also not my own.)

It is so wonderful to be back!

I am and I’m actually excited for class to start tomorrow. Weirdly.

When In Nebraska…part 2

2011-08-20T22:13:00.001-05:00

I don’t know about you, but I like to do what the tourists do.

What do tourists to Omaha, Nebraska do?

Hit up the college world series spots, hang out at their famous zoo, and (for us) soak up some pioneer history.

And let me say, the zoo was as rewarding as heaping spoonfuls of chocolate ice-cream on a hot day.

The team that put the extra-thick glass in the gorilla house are on the top of my Christmas card list, because when that gorilla attacked the glass with his fist, I was more terrified than the 3-year old in front of me.

Also, if the Omaha zoo staff start looking for the person that threw the quarter into the crocodile swamp, you never read this.

(That could be a confession, could not be. I’m mysterious like that. But if a croc did die from quarter consumption, I send my condolences. Florida has more to offer, though.)

Which wraps up my Nebraska trip.

I amand thank you Huskers state! I had a grand time in your rolling-hills-of-corn-state.

When In Nebraska…part 1

2011-08-20T00:33:00.001-05:00

Well, I was in Mormon heaven.

Tuesday Porky took me where I requested (after she suggested it): The Mormon Trail museum and the Winter Quarters temple.

We learned more about the trials of the pioneers traveling to Salt Lake City and even attempted to pull a hand cart similar to the ones the pioneers used.

It’s neat to learn about other faiths.

After, we went to the zoo, which really deserves it’s own post. More on that later!

I am and I wore a strapless dress to a Mormon museum. I wasn’t thinking. Can you forgive?

al's narratives

AdventureTown on Monday

Tolo, Napflion, & Olympia – Sunrises, Gelato, and Rain

Castles

CORINTH!

If We Are the Body

“I’ve Been Reading Your Blog, Even Though You Never Update” –Dad

Do As Them Greek Peeps Do

Taste & See That The Lord is GOOD

A HUG For Sun-day’s

HUG Traditions

Past Few Days

HUG That Mountain

It’s All Greek to Me

The World Race

S.O.S! (a semester in Europe in a 50lb. suitcase)

It’s All About Relationships

70’s Love Child

2012 Resolution:

Found: Blessings

I’m Not Like a Regular Aunt, I’m a Cool Aunt

Proof That I Have No Life

bethy boo & food too

The Hunger Games + Kindle = life.complete.

Peace Out Fall Semester.

wrapping things up

Nothing Says “Happy Holidays” Like a Cow Tongue.

Frosty

Jingle Bell Rock Semi-Formal

Will This Semester EVER End?! Plus a Series of Dramatic Webcam Photos.

Baby, It’s Cold Outside

#hognation

I Got in a Fight at Old Navy—a Black Friday Event.

FULL of thanks.

Totes Random

Let Them Eat Cake.

Sometimes I Pretend I’m a Photographer.

Love Came Down

Give Me a P! Give me an M! Give Me an S! What’s that spell?

Homework, Pumpkin Puree, & Engagements.

November 7th-11th:

Rough Night: Cry-Fest Twenty-Eleven

I-OTA CHI, Pink & Black Until We Die!

who needs alcohol?

Today I Think I’ll Cut My Finger Open

Only Read This If You Like HUGE Announcements!

13.1 Miles Before Breakfast

Grab My Flag and See What Happens.

I Have a Restless Spirit

I Heart Butterbeer

Coldplay > Other Bands

Barn Bash 2011 – Troop Beverly Hills!

Recap of a Week When I Didn’t Blog

True Life: I’m a Harry Potter Virgin

Symbolism

Tis My Season

Crack o’ Dawn

All Who Are Thirsty

Hobo Suppppppa

On This October’s Eve

Thankful Thursday

Oh, Lately:

on my heart

He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection.--Psalm 91:4

TGIM.

Go Shawty, It’s Your Birthday!

Found

I Prayed For God To Truly “Use Me” & He Is.

This Post Gets Better, Believe Me.

Beautiful Things

Joyful Joyful

Could Be Paradise. Or Just Monday.

A Really Awesome, Fabulous, Super, Fantastic, Incredible, Wonderful Weekend.

Moments Between the Footsteps

Miscellanies Include: Pictures, Jesus, & a Homemade Music Video.

Over the Hills & Through the Woods, to Barton Bible Camp I Go.

August 31, 2011: You Were Good to Me

Daily Inspiration

Break-up Survival 101

Words I Couldn’t Say

He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection.
--Psalm 91:4