Friday, November 28, 2008

Thankfulness

Top ten things I am THANKFUL for this year (in no particular order):
1. My relationship with Jesus
I am so blessed to be in relationship with the Creator. He is my best friend who is ALWAYS there for me, encouraging me always and the One I turn to in time of need. If you don't know him, you should. Ask me!
2. My family


My family is the best! We are going through a lot of changes and the number of my family members will decrease by one this year, but we are learning to love more, be more, and follow God more every day together!
3. My Bethany University Friends

It is impossible for one picture to capture all my love and all my beautiful friendships that continue to stay strong from my Bethany years. But this picture is a great summary of legacy, long-lasting, and forever.
4. My Seattle University Friends


Now, there isn't a picture that represents us better! This picture will prove our differences, but show that we are all connected together in some way! I adore these girls, and I appreciate these friendships that I have been able to have up here! We are in a constant process of working on "being" friends for each other, learning from each other, and loving one another. I can appreciate process. And I believe that this will be good fruit in the end!

5. My Sean Friend This is my Sean Friend. It seems somewhat selfish that he gets his own number, BUT...he has taught me A LOT over the past year and I am so thankful for him. Sean is reflective in nature, analy (I think I am made up that word) logical, and not sure he loves Jesus. BUT, he is one of the best people I know for his kind heart, talk-to-anyone-attitude and his desire to serve people. He's just great - and he always comes around at the most random but opportune times! I know, everyone thinks he is adorable but nope, we are not into one another!

6. The Best Sister in the World


Litney Layne Leifer is the best lil' sis I can have. She is a role model in her relationships with the Lord, she is a servant to all, she has a great heart, and she is extremely free spirited and down to earth. She demonstrates and joy of slowing down life, not being uptight, and being spontaneous. We have not always been the best roomies, but we are leanring, growing, and having fun! Only seven more months with this lil munchkin.
7. My attitude adjustment

Last year was not a good or fun year - the transition away from BU, my crazy work load plus school, and the Seattle weather did make it easier. However, I have had a great year this year. I am in a new job where I LOVE my team and the people around me, plus I am learning a lot about myself through the work. I have time for myself now with only working and going to school 3 days a week! Also, I have truly enjoyed Seattle and all that it has to offer. I have told myself that I am going to stop saying anything negative about this great city -yup! I think it is beautiful and it was been very nice to me the past few days with no rain!

8. My Edu-mu-cation

I can't express how much appreciation I have for the education. I have learned so much about myself as a person, as a leader and as a future professional. I appreciate how Seattle University is founded in values that are so new to me - diversity, multicultural competence and social justice. I truly feel that I learn something new every single day. Thank you Mom and Dad for supporting me financially through this journey!
9. God's Grace

I thank God daily for his grace over my life. I am blessed to be forgiven and for his unending mercy. Thank you Jesus!

10. Chai Tea

I love me some chai tea! Anytime, anywhere! Mmmm...Mmmm...Good!

Monday, November 24, 2008

After 8 years...

On my 16th birthday I was given a "CTR" ring. Yep, a Mormon "Choose the Right" ring. Well, from that day on I wore the beautiful ring on my left ring finger as a symbol of purity and also as somewhat of a friendship ring with the ladies in my class.

I always get asked the question "Are you a Mormon?" Or if I see people staring at it with questioning eyes, I always make sure to peep up, "You're wondering if I am Mormon, huh?" (This was especially the case at my Protestant Christian College).
Disclaimer: I am not Mormon, though have many amazing, beautiful friends that are. Thank you Mel and Robbie for allowing me to ask questions and learn more!

Anyways, I have been contemplating it for awhile, but today I finally decided to switch the ring from my left to right hand. Let the change begin! Not only is my left finger permanently indented (or so it feels), but my right finger is a little bit smaller so the ring feels like it is going to continuously fall off!

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Seasons of Life

i am learning to appreciate this season of my life.
it is the season where i have have no attachments, no huge over-bearing responsibilities, no major bills (yet!), i only work 20 hours a week and go to school two nights a week.
it is the season where i am able to learn more about who i am through much reflection and contemplation.
it is the season where i am learning more about my relationship with god and able to be filled with his love and grace each and every day.
it is the season that i am spending time developing my friendship and love for my sister - i sometimes forget how much i love and appreciate her.
it is the season i am enduring the rain and the mugginess of seattle weather (hopefully only another year!).
it is the season where i get to learn, live, laugh and love each day and for this, i am blessed.
i love this season of life.

Friday, November 7, 2008

My Grandpa

I am sitting at Tully's right now that is right across from a middle school and high school so there are about thirty youngens running around and creating a ruckus - never a great place to be in order to get homework done (thus, the reason I am distracted by blogging).

Anyways, I come to this Tully's a lot and see this precious elderly gentleman that is always here around the same time. Well, it turns out he meets his granddaughter here every day after school to spend time with her and treat her to some sweets! I was able to experience the most amzing moment today as she turned to him and said "Thank you Opa for meeting me here every day and buying me something." Of course he replied, "Oh hunny, it's my pleasure."

Now, I sit here in tears missing my own grandpa!

I love you Grandpa! Thanks for always watching over me!