Christmas Break Week 2

I can't believe my break is half over. It's been so great. This weekend was full of time with good friends. Friday night I went out with Jen and Jenny! We had so much fun. We went out to celebrate Jenny and my birthdays. We went to Topanga for dinner at PF Chang's. I love these girls. It was so fun to be together again.

On Saturday Summer came over so we could catch up on life and Saturday nigth I had two friends from church over who have been such an encouragement to me...Denise and Patricia. We had a good time. We ate dinner, talked for hours and then watched a movie.

Sunday was church and then I was going to have a night at home but Lynn and Michelle called to go to a movie. We went and saw "Marley and Me". It was aight. I give it a "6".

This morning was AWESOME...hence the pictures. Kristin (from my office), Shannon Stauffer and I went to Hollywood to walk the trails of Runyon Canyon.. It was so beautiful! I've always wanted to go but today was the first time. I loved it and will be going back soon. It was a great workout too. We had such a good time walking and talking. I loved sharing it with these girls. (Tricia, we are soooo there when you get home!)

Life is good and I am loving the break!

*Today I am thankful for the beautiful weather outside.

A Must Read (and Favorite)....

I got this book from Mandy for Christmas. Back in May I did a radio interview on KKLA for the college and right after my interview Francis Chan came on to promote this book. I remember thinking that I really wanted to read it. I met Francis in Uganda and told myself I needed to buy it but when I got back but I forgot. Thanks Mandy!

This book has really impacted me this week. There's a website for the book www.crazylovebook.com and I recommend you check it out. I have become a huge Francis Chan fan. There's so much good stuff in the first two chapters I keep re-reading them.

I've really thought a lot about the Character of God the last few months and have wanted to really know Him more. It's cool to read this book and have that affirmed in so many ways. Here is a brief description: "Does something deep inside your heart long to break free from the status quo? Are you hungry for an authentic faith that addresses the problems of our world with tangible, even radical solutions? God is calling you to a passionate love relationship with Himself. Because the answer to religious complacancy isn't working harder at a list of do's and dont's- it's falling in love with God. And once you encounter His love, as Francis describes it...you will never be the same. Because when you are wildly in love with someone it changes everything."

Christmas and Ivy's Birthday...

Happy Birthday Ivy....

Ivy...one of the biggest blessings in my life. She has brought so much joy into our family the last three years. I love being her Auntie. There are so many things I love about her. Happy Birthday Ivy...I LOVE YOU!!!

Christmas Break Day 2...

Today was a good day. Thanks to everyone for praying for my sister and her family. The judge ruled today that the baby will remain with them at least until the next court date in March. It is a complete miracle and all afternoon I've thought of the verse in Proverbs that says "The kings heart is in the hands of the Lord like the rivers of water He turns it wherever He chooses." Praise God the Lord turned the judges heart and allowed Kelli and Matt to keep Sissy another couple months. We will continue to trust in the Lord!

I slept horrible last night. I'm trying not to take any pain medication as I'm fearful that I will become addicted. It may just be me being weird but I don't want to mess with that! I had to get up at 3:45 to take my roommate to the airport! (boo hoo) I got home at 5:30, slept until 7 and got ready to go to Simi Valley to meet with a girl I disciple. We had a good time and then on my way home Kelli called with the news. I went into work for a couple hours and then went Christmas shopping for little Sissy. Tonight Lynn and her boys are coming over for a couple hours for pizza and Christmas! I'm so thankful for Lynn in my life. She is one of the most encouraging selfless people I know. A true blessing to me. The picture is Sissy's first day at my sisters.

*Today I am thankful for God's goodness!

Christmas Break Day 1...

It's only been a couple hours but I am already enjoying my time off. I have been needing A LOT of rest since I had my wisdom teeth out but I was up by 7 AM rearing to go. Mandy was getting ready to leave for work and I was a little sad that she's leaving tommorow for 10 days. I have really enjoyed her as my roomate but most importantly my friend. She is a blessing in my life! Iv'e been doing laundry, had my coffee and spent some good time with the Lord. What a morning...love it!

I participated in a CD exchange with my office and I created Hollie's Hot Hits of 2008. Thought I'd share the songs with you that inspired, encouraged, made me dance, songs that brought me back to a special time/moment and songs that I just really liked this year. If you haven't heard of them go to itunes.

Lesson Learned: Alicia Keys
My Life, My Love, My All: Kirk Franklin
Realize: Colbie Callait
Amazing Grace: Chris Tomlin
What Do I know of Holy: Addison Road
Butterflies: Dave Barnes
Umbrella: Rhianna
OK: J.R.
Overjoyed: Stevie Wonder
Christ in the Middle: Toussaint
The Way I Feel: Matt Wertz
The Only Name: Hillsong
I Can Trust in You: Rebecca St. James
Crumble to Pieces: Phil Wickham
Gravity: John Mayer
A Friend in the World: Matthew West
Single Ladies (put a ring on it): Beyonce (Heck yes!)

*Today I am thankful that we've got to have Sissy in our family the last 6 months. If you think of it pray for my sister and family. We go to court tommorow and she could be taken away at that time. (see Kelli's blog for more info).

Christmas Party No. 12

My roommate decided she wanted to make a Christmas dinner and have some friends over. It ended up turning into a Christmas dinner but you were supposed to wear your Ugliest Christmas sweater. It was fun. There were some really crazy ones out there. We ended up having about 15 people over and there were a lot of laughs.

*Today I am thankful for a day of lots of sleep and rest.

A couple nights ago Adam and Luke took me on a suprise night on the town. These boys have become two of my favorites over the last six months. I work with Luke and Adam is his best friend who taught a class at the college this year so he was around our office a lot. We try to meet once a week for what we like to call "Family time". We share what's going on in our lives, encourage one another, pray for one another and I try to keep them in line! :)
We had talked about having a family dinner for Christmas and they ended up planning a suprise night for me. They took me down to Beverly Hills. We drove around Rodeo and walked and enjoyed the Christmas cheer. We then went to the Cheesecake Factory for dinner. It was such a fun night and they spoiled me! I am so thankful for the people the Lord blesses me with and places in my life. I treasure their friendship!

RELIEF...

I feel a little weak, have the most disgusting hole in my mouth, and am tired but I feel SOOO MUCH BETTER!!!! That pain was some of the worst pain I have felt so I am glad the problem is gone. At the doctor they put me compltetly under and I remember trying to fight it. The Dr. was asking me questions and I wanted to answer but I could feel the laughing gas taking me over. It went so fast. It felt like 5 minutes although it was 45. I'm so thankful Johnny was with me. They explained everything to him that I would need to do and then he brought me home and Mandy took care of me the rest of the night. (She can make a mean milkshake!!!)
I was in and out of sleep from 4-9 and finally went to bed then. I only woke up once in the night: took more medication and then slept until 7:00! I am a little sore and grossed out but doing better. I am just going to rest today! Thanks to everyone who was praying!

*Today I am thankful for my roommate...such a gracious, loving caretaker! Love her!

I hate the dentist....

I have been in horrible pain this week! I went to the dentist on Monday who gave me vicadin AND an antibiotic. He said it looks like my wisdom tooth was infected. Neither of the medications have helped. After three days of taking lots of pain medication with minimal results I went to a oral surgeon this morning who will be removing my two wisdom teeth in one hour! I am scared. I do not like the dentist and they will put me out completley. My good friend Johnny is going with me and will take me home after. You can pray for me. (Have I said how much I hate the dentist?!?!?)

By 8:00 PM and $650 later (SERIOUSLY)....I should be feeling better.

Would You Rather Wednesday?!?!?!

Would you rather have glow in the dark body hair or have a receding hair line? Death is not an option.

*Today I am thankful for Luke and Adam....thanks for a fun night out last night!

Par-tay Season in Full Gear...

Last night I took my staff to The Americana for some good food, fun and fellowship. Hugh, Luke, John and I went down early to do a little shopping. We rode the trolly, got coffee and enjoyed the holiday spirit.
Everyone else came and met up with us around 6:00. We had a great time. We ate dinner at Freida Mexican restuarant. We also had a White Elephant CD gift excahnge. I ended p with Kevin Max....HOLLA! For my CD I created "Hollie's Hottest Hits of 2008" This would be a compilation of my fav songs of 2008...(you KNOW you want it people!!!)
Once again i was spoiled with love, gift cards, candles and some of my favorite things. What a blessing to work with some of my closest friends.

Admissions Intern Christmas Party...

This morning I had my whole staff/ interns over for breakfast for our annual intern Christmas party. It was a great time. We ate breakfast, John and Luke led us in Christmas singing, had a white elephant gift exchange and had some great fellowship. Luke was in charge of making the waffles (notice the mess he made in the picture).


They are all a blessing in my life. It was a great morning!

*Today I'm thankful for the Admissions Office!

Here are two pictures from this week at work. The top picture is two guys that I work with. The one next to me: Nate Scroggins is the Director of one of our Master's programs at the school. Jason the one across from me oversees our DEEP and CPS programs. I have enjoyed working with these two this year. The Lord used Nate to convict me about getting baptized and Jason has become a good friend and confidant to me. It's such a joy to work with people you really like.
The other picture is two of my favorite kids Ivy and Tate visiting me at work.

*Today I am thankful that it's Friday!!!

Life is Short...

I was thinking this morning about the last few weeks. I have been tired with all the busyness. This time of year is one of celebration and a time to be thankful but it's always so busy. Ive had a lot to blog about but have been too busy and tired to do it.

In the last two and a half weeks I have attended three funerals. Life is short. They were all celebrations of life. This has made me think about my life. What would people say about me if I died? More than that what does my life reflect? What am I doing with my time and money? Is it bringing the ultimate glory to God? It also reminds me not to waste a moment...be thankful for everything, tell people I love them and appreicate them, be thankful for everything, don't waste time, be a light, and be thankful for everything.

I read this today and loved it so I will share it:
Once I heard a song of sweetness, And it filled the morning air.
Sounding in it's blest completness, Like a tender pleading prayer;
And I sought to find the singer, where this wondrous song was borne;
And I found a bird quite wounded, Pinned down by a cruel thorn.

I have seen a soul in sadness, While it's wings with pain were furled.
Giving hope, and cheer, and gladness that should bless a weeping world.
And I know that life of sweetness, Was of pain and sorrow borne.
And a stricken soul was singing, With it's heart against a thorn.

You are told of One who loved you, Of a Saviour crucified.
You are told of nails that held Him; And a spear that pierced His side.
You are told of cruel scourging, Of a Saviour being scorn.
And He died for your salvation with His brow against a thorn.

You "are not above the Masters." Will you breathe a sweet refrain?
And His grace will be sufficient, When your heart is peirced with pain.
Will you live to bless His loved ones, Though your life be bruised and torn.
Like the bird that sang so sweetly, With it's heart against the thorn.

*Today I am thankful for my my rear warmers in my car! (I am ready for summer again!)

Would You Rather Wednesday?!?!?

Would you rather have a Christmas party for 5 nights straight that you are required to attend or not have any Christmas parties to go too?!?!?


*Today I am thankful for my big fuzzy blanket that keeps me warm.

TMC commercial with J MAC

This commercial was created for our your end show last year. If you are a fan of John MacArthur you will love this!

*Today I am thankful for Christmas music!

Would You Rather Wednesday?!?!?

Would you rather live in a world where hugs were replaced by grabbing a person's nose and squeezing it or where all friendship disputes were settled by a dance off?!?! Death is not an option. (things to consider: if you don't have rythmn you will be a LOSER all the time and noses can be disgusting)

*Today I am thankful for my thoughtful, sweet,gerous and compassionate roommate!

Reasons why I LOVE Thanksgiving break...

*Sleeping in
*The meal (AND leftovers...thanks Patty and Dawn!)
*Lots of reading
*Creating cards
*Seeing Ivy
*Movie with Hugh ("Quantum of Solace"...it was aight)
*staying up late
*catching up on TiVo
*working out with Tricia
*watching football with Luke
*Christmas shopping (this was minimal people...I dont do the crowds)
*a clean house
*putting up Christmas decorations
*talking with a lot of friends
*making chili and cornbread...it was good!
*re-doing my blog!

*Today I am thankful for a couple of days off so I could get all the previous things listed done!

Give Thanks...

I love Thanksgiving. It's a great time to reflect on all the things we should be thankful for. Not to mention great food, awesome naps and some sweet left overs. This year I spent the morning at home. My roommate is out of town for the weekend so I slept in, read, worked out and then went to the Iverson's this afternoon to have Thanksgiving with them. They had a few friends over and it was a good time.(they also had three types of turkey: deep fried, rotiserre, and regular) Afterwards I stopped by Pam and Mark Curries with Kelli and Matt and then I headed over to my friend Patricia's house to spend a little time with her.

It was a great day to be reminded of all the reasons I have to be thankful which are many. I have an abubdantly blessed life.

Would You Rather Wednesday?!?!

Would you rather have a neck like a turkey (for some people this would be known as a double chin) or instead of laughing you would gobble?!?! Death in not an option. (things to consider: extra skin constantly dangling from your face or weird looks when people hear you gobble.)

*Today I am thankful for Hugh and Luke who force me out of my routine and make me live a little!

It's back....Holla

My TMC Family...

I know I talk all the time about how I love the people in my office but I really love the people in my office. I thought this was a sa-weet picture of us. I'm going to go from left to right and tell you a little tid-bit about this crazy family of mine and why I love them.

Kristin: She's our newest member and always has a smile. She's a learner and she has a love for people. She is an encourager of me and I have enjoyed seeing our friendship grow. Great sense of humor too.

Hugh: I've worked with him the last four years. First as a student then I hired him as paid staff. I've adopted him as my little brother and have appreciated his wisdom. He calms me down when I need to relax and tells me when I am being dramatic. Love it Hugh!

Megan: Megan was my first official hire as Director. What a blessing she is. She is so loyal to me and is a great friend and confidant. She has shared all the ups and downs with me the last four years. A true sista!

Luke: I Love this kid! He's become my little protector. He's always looking out for me and is one of the most caring people in my life. He's the entertainer of the office...you never know what is going to happen next with him. He is a blessing to me.

John Melcon: John is dilligent in all he does. I have grown to appreciate him so much the last six months. He is brillant (I'm learning more and more). He's faithful and he is the voice of reason in the office.

John Spring: One of the sweetest,most generous and BEST gentleman that I've ever met. A great friend and he's always looking out for me. He is the caretaker of the girls in the office and I adore him.

Steve Crawford: This kid makes me smile. The whole office enjoys him and appreciates his honesty and willingness to be "real". Steve is caring. He is always seeking me out to see how he can serve me and wants to please me.....I appreciate him.

I am blessed by this group! They have shown me so much love the last few weeks/years and I couldn't ask for more. It's a joy to come to work with them everyday! A defintie blessing from the Lord!

Would You Rather Wednesday?!?!?!

Would you rather give up your favorite comfort food for the rest of your life or give up listening to your favorite singer/group for the rest of your life?

*Today I am thankful for my time with Tricia and Jenny last night... I LOVE YOU GIRLS!!!!!

I Still Believe...

It has been a hard couple of weeks for me! I always debate in my mind what to "share" in cyber world but the people that love me read this and know my struggles anyway so why not share things on my blog knowing that you all pray for me. (if you don't pray for me please start! :))

Today at the college I received some difficult news. One of my beloved collegues, Bill Merrill, died of a massive heart attack last night. I just spoke with him yesterday afternoon and we shared some laughs together. He leaves a wife and two young children. He was our VP of Development. An amazingly brillant man who LOVED TMC. He was doing amazing things here and I loved working with him.

Today I am reminded as I have EVERY DAY the last couple months that God is soverign in control of ALL things and that He is good. This is a profound loss for many people here at the college and my heart is sad. Yet, I can say I Believe that God is in control and knows what is best. He has a plan that is for our benefit! "Trust in Him at ALL TIMES you people, pour out your heart before Him, God is a refuge for us." Psalm 62:8

Through all the sadness and trials over the last few weeks, the Lord has been refining me and has given me a peace that surpasses my undersanding. He has gifted me with JOY and with my sadness there remains gladness! My pastor has been talking about joyful suffering. It has really impacted the way I have been thinking and I'm realizing that it is a battle of the mind. It's a discipline.

*Pain and the way we respond to it reflects who we are.
*Your mind drives who you are (Provers 23:7) (Phil 4:8)
*Your success in trials depends on how much you feed and renew your mind with the Word.

Ecc. 7:3 says "Sorrow is better than laughter for by a sad countenace the heart is made better." This has been true of me! No matter what the circumstances or the trails that God allows into my life...even though I don't understand God is Good. I know that He is working and I choose to trust in him and renew my mind with things that He has promised me.

Please pray for Bill's wife Holly and their two young children during this time.

Hebrews 12:2 "Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."

I was looking through my journal today and re-read some statements that impacted me. I thought it would be good to share it with everyone. I hope these are great reminders for you, I hope they encourage and even convict. (*I didnt come up with any of these on my own...I'm not going to "site" each one)

1. God does as He pleases and that which pleases Him is always for our good and His glory.
2. It is one thing to know that no person or circumstance can touch us outside of God's soverign control, it is still another to realize that no person or circumstance can frustate God's purpose for our lives.
3. What's the point in adding years to your life if you aren't adding life to your years.
4. Prayer is the acknowledgment of God's soverignty and of our dependance upon Him to act on our behalf. Prudence is the acknowledgement of our responsibility to use all legitimite means.
5. Where faith is deficient the gospel is sufficient.
6. Joy is NOT related to circumstance.
7. The only thing standing between the command of God to rejoice and our experience of that joy is a sinful heart...a heart that delights more in the things of the world than in God. And if we try to excuse our disobedience by saying, ‘I can’t rejoice in God because I have a sinful heart,’ our words will not excuse us; they will condemn us.
8.Revival is not some emotion or worked-up excitement; it is rather an invasion from heaven which brings to man a conscious awareness of God.
9.Whereve you are, be all there.
10.God never said doing His will would be easy, He only said it would be worth it.

*Today I am thankful for the Sharpes....I love this family and am thankful that they love me too!

Party at Aunt Hollie's...

Last night Ivy was going to spend the night with me and we decided to invite her friends Tate and Ewan to join us. We met them at the mall with their mom (and my fab friend) Lynn. We ate dinner, went and picked out a toy at the Disney store and then came back to my place for a movie. They were so excited. It wasn't a great nights sleep but fun for the kiddos. Special thanks to my roommate Mandy for being such a trooper!

*Today I am thankful that I woke up to a sweet little voice saying "I love you Hollie" and a sweet little kiss.

Would You Rather Wednesday?!?!

Would you rather never be able to complete a thought or never let your mind rest? Things to consider: conversations with friends and sleeping.

*Today I am thankful for and overwhelmed by the way my friends love me. I am exceptionally blessed.

My Baptism...

I was baptized last night at Grace Community Church. It was aweome. The following was my testimony.

I grew up in a Christian home but never fully comprehended the extent of my sin or what the Lord saved me from. I was in church two to three times a week but never made Christ my own. I said I was a Christian but my actions and motives didn’t reflect a person who was truly saved and placing their faith in Jesus Christ. As I got older my desires and pursuits outweighed what the Lord commanded of me and what I knew His Word required of a believer. I said I believed the Gospel but my life and attitude didn’t reflect it. My mouth would say one thing but my actions would do something else. I went through the motions of being baptized in junior high but continued to live a life of sin. I would outright sin against God, knew what I was
doing was wrong yet continued to do it anyway. I lived a life of self-glorification, pride, lust, deceit, and anger to name a few. I never took responsibility for my actions and would look at others and blame them for my own sin. It wasn’t until I came out to California and was under solid biblical teaching that my heart and mind started to become transformed.

Being under the teaching at Grace Community and seeing how the gospel is lived out,
impacted me. God began to reveal himself to me in many ways. Psalm 49:15 says:
“But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave, For he shall receive me.” The Holy Spirit was convicting me of my sin and my wrongful thinking. I began to understand what the Church really is and what it means to live a transformed life for Christ. My motives and desires began to change and Christ became a central part of my life. I began to see more of my sin and hate it! I can’t give the exact time when I was saved but I know without a doubt that I am.
My hope and trust are in Christ and Him alone. Romans 5:5 “Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” My heart is overwhelmed with God’s love and goodness to me. I battle my sin daily and am overwhelmed that the Lord loves me and choose to save me.
I no longer seek my own sinful desires and wants but look to the Lord to control and lead me.
My thoughts, motives and actions are a reflection of loving, following and serving Christ.

Romans 10:10 “For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth
confession is made unto salvation.” Over the past six months the Lord has been leading me
towards being baptized. Today I am being baptized out of obedience to my Lord and Savior
Jesus Christ.

*Today I am thankful for all my friends who came to support and love me!

Trials will come...

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whevever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish it's work so that you may be complete not lacking anything." James 1:2-4
God has been so gracious to me lately. It is certainly true that he brings trials into my life to refine me and turn me to Him. It seems that lately I've seen so many people around me going through different trials and adversities. God has been really teaching me about my lack of faith and trust in Him. I have been so encouraged by His words and how he has fulfilled His promises to me. For example, Isaiah 26:3 says "He will keep Him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You because he trusts in You." I love this verse because it's the Lord telling me that if I choose to trust in Him then He will give me peace if my mind is stayed on Him. This has been a hard one for me as I like to be in charge of all areas of my life. God has been showing me that I need to trust in Him and wait for him to direct my paths. As Christians, we are to pursue with diligence the will of God. To do this requires perseverance. Perseverance is the quality of character that enables one to pursue a goal in spite of obstacles and difficulties.

We must believe that God is soverign. Learning to trust God is a matter of will and is not dependant on feelings. It's a matter of faith. If you pursue that then God will give you perfect peace because our mind is on Him. I know this is a battle! Trusting God isn't a passive state of mind! It's a choice of the mind and soul where we choose to hang onto the promises of God and cling to them despite the adversity that at times seek to overwhelm us.

We must always remember that God's character DOES NOT change! He is unchanging, eternal, wise, LOVING, kind, compassionate, just, patient, HOLY, jealous for his own honour, perfect in every way, and omniscent. He knows our trials because He allowed them for our good and His glory. We must cast all our anxiety on Him because He cares for us! (1 Peter 5:7)

As we all continue to persevere through the different trials that He brings us let's not lose sight of the cross and His truths. Praise the Lord that we have Hope and that it's all out of our control.

*Today I am thankful that I can rejoice always, pray without ceasing and in EVERYTHING give thanks! This is the will of God in Christ Jesus for us!

Can You Be Assured of Heaven?

PREACH IT J MAC!

*Today I am thankful for the Truth of God's Word.

Would You Rather Wednesday?!?!

Would you rather be three feet to the right of where you actually are or not exist on April 23rd of every year? Death is not an option. Things to consider: the feeling of never being in the right place and always veering towards the left and/or having your family and friends freak out every year when they can't find you (which could potentially cause them to send you to the looney bin).

*Today I am thankful for the cool air outside.

I had to share these pictures of the nieces and nephew. They are so cute.

*

Today I am thankful for the promise of Isaiah 26:3 "You will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You; Because he trusts in You."

Would You Rather Wednesday?!?!

Would you rather smile and rub your hands together through all conversations or finish all sentences with "that's all folks?"

*Today I am thankful for Excedrin that takes away the headaches....ahhhh

I Love My Mom...

I got to stay a night with my Rents last week when I was in the mid-west. I miss doing the girl things that a daughter gets to do with her mom. I only get to see them twice a year so it's something we both miss a lot!
I love you Mom and am so glad we got to spend a little time together. You are such a hard worker and servant to others. I have enjoyed seeing you and dad enjoy the empty nest a little more. (No I'm not moving back in!) :) Thanks for being one of my biggest fans. i miss you!

*Today I am thankful (again) for Ivy and the joy she brings to our family.

I Love My Brother...

Kyle, I love you. It was so fun for me to see your life and how much you have grown up. I respect you and think you are a great provider, husband and dad. It was a joy for me to see how you have grown and are raising your family in a Godly home. Thanks for sharing it with me!

*Today I am thankful for my brother!

Family...

I got to see my family when I was back in the mid-west this past week. I loved spending time with my brother's family although it wasn't nearly long enough. I don't have time to figure out how to do a slideshow so I will post different pictures here and there. I miss you Kyle, Becca, Mayah, Mason and Madison! I love love love you and am so thankful for the time we had together. The top picture is "The Computer Club" as Mayah called it working on our computers. Middle picture is the kids and I playing and the last picture is my sista Becca and little Madison.

*Today I am thankful for these pictures!

Would You Rather Wednesday?!?!

Would you rather wake up every Sunday and not remember anything from the previous week or remember everything and your mind never rests?


*Today I am thankful for safe travels.

JMAC story

My brother showed me this story and it totally made me cry. It's one of those ones that grab your heart a bit. Thought I'd pass it along...

I'm in the mid-west on a business trip and came to Des Moines on Sunday to stay with my brother and his family for a night. It was so great seeing them. My neice Mayah came and crawled in bed with me at 2 AM wanting to snuggle. They are so precious! I will post pictures later.


*Today I am thankful that I got to spend time with my neices and nephew yesterday.

I am Spoiled....

Have I mentioned how much I love my staff?!?! Today was Boss's Day and they completly spoiled me! They brought in a huge spread for breakfast and my favorite Starbucks drink, gave me $15 itunes gift card, flowers, a thoughtful card and money to buy a new leather chair. I am so blessed to work with people who love me, serve me and encourage me the way that they do.
Today was the start of a big couple days at work. It's our Fall College View Weekend and we have around 150 people visiting over the next two days. It's such a fun YET busy time for our office but we love it! The picture is part of my staff at my breakfast and the other is Kristine Ardavanis (a sweet girl who works in my office...love her!)and I with our new TMC surfboard!

*Today I am thankful for the love and encouragment I received all day.

Would You Rather Wednesday?!?!

Would you rather have such a love of dancing that at the sound of any music you feel compelled to do the Conga (this stemming from your inability to control yourself any longa) OR have an extreme phobia of vegetables and anyone named Rhonda? Death is not an option.

*Today I am thankful for my friend Patty who is without a dobut a gift from the Lord.

Happy Birthday Mandy....

Happy Birthday to my sweet roomate Mandy. I am so thankful for her and have enjoyed getting to know her better over the last few months. She is so generous, kind, thoughtful and encouraging. I have LOVED our time together and she has been such a blessing to me.
I am thankful for you Mandy and consider you a blessing from the Lord. I hope you have a great day and feel loved AND appreciated all day! I'm excited to celebrate tonight! :)

Things About Me....

I was "tagged" to do this so if you don't know me well...you will now! :)

1. Do you like blue cheese salad dressing? No! Pass me the balsamic please.
2. Do you own a gun? No
3. What's your favorite drink at Starbucks? hmmm...Chai Latte
4. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? Newhall Pumpkin Spice with hazelnut creamer sugar free
5. Do you do pushups? Yes I do...not the girl ones either!
6. What's your favorite piece of jewelry? Accesories are the diggity..how can I choose one?!
7. Favorite hobby? Being outdoors, walking, good conversation with those I love.
8 Do you have A.D.D? I would say no but the guys in my office would say Yes.
9. What's one trait that you hate about yourself? I can be impatient.
10. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment: I wish I could take a nap, I should go to the gym and I wish I wouldn' of eaten the whole rootbeer float that Megan made for me.
11. Name 3 drinks you regularly drink. coffee, crystal light rasberry ice tea, and water.
12. Current worry right now? a report that I need to get done for my boss
13. Current hate right now? My sin.
14. Favorite place to be? My bed...THE most comfortable bed ever...PERIOD
15. Do you like to travel? it depends where I'm going and what for. An extended vacation..HECK YES....work....not really...gets lonely on the road by yourself.
16. What color shirt are you wearing? black and red
17. Do you like sleeping on satin sheets? I have only done it once and it felt too hot.
18. Can you whistle? not good at all.
19. Favorite color? depends...top three: pink, green and black
20. If you could would you be a pirate? No...they are scary
21. What song do you sing in the shower? everyday is diffeent but the girl does sing!
22. Favorite girl's name? haven't spent enough time thinking about it.
23. Favorite boy's name? same as above
24. What's in your pocket right now? $1
25. Favorite bedsheets as a child? Holly Hobby
26. Worst injury? when Kelli and I were fighting and she gouged out my eye with a pencil and it filled with blood almost causing permenat eye damage. (For real People!)
27. Do you love where you live? LOVE IT!
28. How many TVs do you have in your house? 3
29. Who is your loudest friend? My sister and John Adams....VERY close tie!
30. How many pets do you have? zero
31. Does someone have a crush on you? I think so.
32. What is your Favorite Book? The Bible
33. What's your favorite candy? Hot Tamales or Nibs (licorice)
34. Favorite Sports Team? Iowa Hawkeyes
35. What was the first thing you thought of when you woke up? I need to go spend time with the Lord so get your butt out of bed!!!

*Today I am thankful that John Spring worked the fair for me last night as he wanted me to "relax". He is AWESOME!

Work is so much more fun when I get suprise visitors. I was in a meeting upstairs in the boardroom and we heard a bunch of ruckus downstairs. Someone announced after looking out the window that I had visitors.....Kelli had brought Ivy, Sissy, and Tate (my friend Lynn's son) by to visit me. (Perfect timing! :))

They were so cute and full of energy. It was so fun. I love getting to share them with everyone.

*Today I am thankful for sticky kisses from Tate and Ivy!

Would You Rather Wednsday?!?!

Would You Rather sleep for a week with a room full of rats or eat a whole cow intestine in one setting?!?!?! Death would NOT be an option.

*Today I am thankful for team work!

A Profound Thought...

Church was SO good yesterday. Without a dobut I am under some of the best biblical teaching in the world. I recognize it and try not to take it for granted. Yesterday J Mac was teaching from Luke 23. He's been doing a sereis on the crucifixtion of Christ.

When we think of the Cross of Christ we usually think of the physical suffering or the way he took on our sin. I've never really thought about the element of the precense of God at Calvary. J Mac stated that Calvary is more about the wrath of God than anything else.

Luke 23:44-46 "It was now about the sixth hour, and darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour, for the sun stopped shining. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Jesus called out with a loud voice, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit." When he had said this, he breathed his last."

This passage has impacted me a lot over the last 24 hours. The sixth hour back in that empire was noon time. So at noon God covered the earth in complete darkness for three hours. This would have been a supernatural event. (I can't imagine the world going pitch black in the middle of the day!)In Matthew, Jesus called complete darkness hell. Divine wrath was poured out. In those moments Jesus wanted to be comforted. He was man yet sinless, taking on the sin of the World, feeling the wrath of God and he had no one to comfort him or help him. THIS is the final suffereing of hell...NO COMFORT. In hell God will not be there to show sympathy, comfort or relief. Jesus died and paid the penalty for our sin so we wouldn't have to suffer like that. Jesus did all of this for ME and You.

This past year has had it's ups and downs for me. During these moments I have clung to the Lord and his Word for comfort and encouragement. That is what has sustained me. I can't imagine what it would have been like to experience what Jesus experienced with no comfort from God the Father. This message really made me look at Calvary differently and I'm so thankful for that. Thank you Jesus for taking that on for me!!

*Today I am thankful for the Cross of Christ.

I Heart Saturdays...

I haven't had a Saturday off in three weeks! I was supposed to go to a work conference today in Pasadena but yesterday it was cancelled. Holla! My day started off great...I slept in until 8 AM this morning...blessed! I went to a cardio kickbox class at my gym, hung out at the Gebhards and went on a walk with Julie, then Matt and Ivy came over to see me and help me with some hanging, got some phone calls from people that I hadn't talked to in awhile (love you Lamay and Pops) and then tonight was roommate night. We went to a movie and then had a night in reading and chatting. I love days like these. I had to post two picks of Ivy from today at my house. I cannot believe how big she is getting. She's so talkative and makes me laugh. I adore her!

*Today I am thankful for the fall like weather.

Congrats to the Kellers!!

Henry Keller was born today at 7:00 AM. Mom and baby are doing great. Mom looks AMAZING and the little guy is soo cute! I just wanted to nibble on him! Congrats Heidi, Joe, Sam and Noah! Aunt Hollie loves you! :)

Farms and Tractor Pulls...

Yes, when I was in Pittsburgh last weekend I went to a tractor pull. When Voda first mentioned it to me I thought she was totally joking but no, we went to watch Phil in this competition. He loves it!!! I know I am from Iowa but I'm only an Iowa girl deep in my heart. I show up in my cute top, William Rast jeans and heels. (come on, I'm from California!) Needless to say when I left my jeans were dirty from the mud but I had a big smile on my face. It was great! It's one of those things you might not want to do again BUT it was a moment that you are thankful you had.

The first picture is Phil "pulling" his tractor (the competition is where you pull your tractor a certain distance and you add weight each round and see who can go the furthest with the most weight) Holla...4 blue ribbons! The second picture is a crowd shot of all the spectators cheering on their loved ones! (this is my favorite) After Phil won the gold (wait it's not CA...he won the blue!) he told me to hop on his tractor and he taught me how to drive it! Remember peeps...country girl deep in my heart....way deep!Thanks Voda...a moment in time.

*Today I am thankful for a sweet time with Tricia last night!