Ariel Rose

This Road I Have Traveled

2009-01-10T10:14:00.002-05:00

"The Road Not Taken" -Robert Frost

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;

Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,

And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.

This is one of my favorite poems by Robert Frost. It's written amazingly.

Some people wonder what it would be like "if they had" or "if they hadn't". But for me, that thought just diminishes a little bit more in my mind every day I grow a little older.
If I had, or if I hadn't, I would be me today. I don't regret my mistakes; they have taught me lessons I would have never learned other wise. I've learned to take the good with the bad....to take one step at a time...and most importantly, always depend on God, Who is always right by my side.

I'd just like to say, that I am so very thankful for everyone I have met on the road I have traveled. Though tough, it has also been full of blessings. I wouldn't trade this road for any other in the world.

Given up on how to lose weight? Here's the answer!!!!

2009-01-07T23:06:00.000-05:00

Preach the Gospel

2009-01-02T00:17:00.002-05:00

As a Christian, I understand that I am to spread the Word of Jesus Christ.

As a Christian, it saddens my heart to see people die in darkness without the opportunity to know Christ...or even to hear of Who He is.

But, as a Christian, there is something that I cannot comprehend no matter how hard I try. How can someone know, I mean REALLY know, Who Christ is and experience Who He is and then continue to live their life like He does not exist? How can they ignore such an amazing God? How do they go on every day knowing that He is there, but just not care?

I just don't understand.

Maybe we're trying too hard

2008-12-30T00:11:00.003-05:00

Mental note: It's hard to write about an emotion, when the emotion can't be felt.

Have you ever experienced a situation that left you so hurt, so scared that when something similar happens...you're numb? You don't laugh. You don't cry. You don't feel a thing. You feel nothing. Absolutely no emotion. You're just a blank page.

Unfortunately, numbness is not something we want to feel. But an upside to that numbness is the blank page it brings us to; the blank page is an option. In my opinion, we have three options. One, stay a blank page. For however long you feel it, you stay numb and never acknowledge it. Two, you color your blank page negatively. You cover your page in black and chose to look only on the worst parts of the situation. Three, you color your page positively. You use color and imagination and you make the best of things.

Better mental note: Color your blankness(numbness) or blackness(bad emotions) with imagination and REAL color. Make the best of the worst situation God gives you.

Humble I bow down

2008-12-28T12:39:00.002-05:00

"What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you? You want something, but you don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on YOUR pleasures. [James4:1-3]

God, less me with a humble heart and mind. Bless me with the patience and understanding to withstand false accusations and arguments. Bless me with the ability to let go of what is not of importance. Bless me with a heart that will bless those who persecute me. When others look at me, let them see Your grace. Amen.

My God is the God Who provides

2008-12-27T23:47:00.002-05:00

(1) I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by His appearing and His kingdom: (2) preach the word; be ready IN SEASON AND OUT OF SEASON; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction. (3) For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, (4) and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths. (5) But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, FULFILL YOUR MINISTRY.
2 Timothy 4:1-5

In this world, it is easy to lose sight of why we are here and what our responsibilities are. It is easy to get caught up in things that have no importance whatsoever. There are so many people that surround us every single day that have done this.
One of the greatest things God has ever entrusted to His children is the blessing of sharing His love. We get to share the greatest thing that has ever existed. What an honor that is and how disappointing it is to see people lose sight of that.
Ministry isn't about showing off for God Himself. It's about showing God off to the world who is missing out on Him. It's about showing the souls He created that He loves them unconditionally, forever. That He was and is and is to come. That He is everything you could ever need.

Sometimes people lose sight of that. Sometimes I lose sight of that.
Recently, I heard one of my own leaders pray a prayer that I know pray for my life. That if I ever get in the way of God and His will, that He would remove me from being in the way.
It's an honor to get to be a part of what He is doing in this world today. I love every minute I spend doing it. It can be exhausting at times, but every time I see someone take a step towards Christ, I realize just how much it really is worth the time, the exhaustion, the late nights, the early mornings, the criticism, the hardship...it's just worth everything. It will always be worth it. Even if it's only for one person, that is one more person that won't have to suffer any longer.

Thank you, Father, for the opportunity You have placed in my life. For the honor of serving You. For everything You do for me. You are mighty, all powerful, amazing. I'm willing, Lord, for You, I will go. Send me. I love you.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T11:20:00.002-05:00

Just wishing everyone a very merry Christmas!!! =]

Mine has been terrific.
Clothes, books, tinkerbell stuff, giftcards....and Rockband. =]
Though I love Rockband, I will be exchanging it for Guitar Hero World Tour. Can't wait. =]

Wish you all the best!!!

Holly jolly days?

2008-12-23T22:35:00.002-05:00

Three words: Christmas and Retail

After an 11 hour shift Monday and an 11.5 shift today....I'm exhausted.
Tomorrow is another 8 hour day....and then church, and then a gathering my parents want me to go to, and then Kev's Aunt's.
The day after Christmas, my shirt starts at 7:30 am and ends at 3pm.

Boy....am I going to need a vacation.

Night.

Readers Participation Required

2008-12-14T15:11:00.003-05:00

Out of all holidays my favorite is Thanksgiving. It has all the great food from Christmas (plus the people I get to spend Christmas with). It's also my favorite because I love feeling so Thankful. We should feel Thankful every day we live, but Thanksgiving is a day that really makes you realize what you have to be thankful for.

My favorite part of Christmas is wrapping the gifts. I loooooove the secrets and the excitment. I love the face the person makes when they open it to find what you got them. I love making the boxes look really pretty. But most importantly, I like giving the gift the most. Honestly, I'd be perfectly okay if I didn't recieve a gift, but I love giving the gift.
I guess it reminds me of the way I should live all the time. God gave me His Son as a gift, and Christmastime is a way of reminding me to share the gift, not only with the people I love most, but the world.

Now, since you know my favorite holiday and my favorite part of Thanksgiving...it's time to share yours.

<333

I passed....

2008-11-14T09:51:00.001-05:00

...my driving test.

=]

Where in the world did Ariel go?

2008-11-06T21:45:00.003-05:00

It seems I've disappeared from the blog world. But not to worry, I'm still alive. =]

It's been pretty busy the past two weeks. My sister's birthday was Oct 25 and my mom's was Nov 2. Preparing was pretty hectic.
I was focusing alot on school, which paid off pretty well. I got an A on my paper, and an A on both tests I had to take two weeks ago, all in the same class. Last week, I aced my Algebra test. And if you know me and how terrible I am with math, you know that's amazing. Work has been pretty crazy. Hallmark + hollidays = craziness. It's starting to settle back down again though.

I'd like to say a few things about the election. Obama and I do not share alot of the same values, but I'd like to congratulate him on his victory. I'd also like to congratulate African Americans on their victory. It wasn't very long ago that they were fighting for their rights in this country, and it's amazing that they have achieved this in so little time.
With Obama as President, I will continue to keep him in my prayers. As a daughter of Christ, that is my duty and I will hold to that. I also encourage anyone else who does not feel so great about him to do the same.

I havn't been to church the past two weekends (I attended online), and I am very excited to see cooper this week. I feel so proud to be a part of what God is doing through everyone there. He has truley blessed me with the opportunity.

I'm off for the night. =]

Lighting

2008-10-20T00:39:00.003-04:00

It's been suggested over the past 2 months that I learn the lighting board and I am pleased to announce that this weekend was my first time running the board under Yoel's direction.
I was so nervous and struggled a bit, but I had a great time. Thanks to my excellent Tech Team leaders for their encouragement, support, and patience!! I love service God and I am blessed that I get to do it with you all. =]

Confused

2008-10-06T00:21:00.002-04:00

I'm confused about so many things.

I thought I had my degree all figured out, now I'm not so sure. I'm going to see an advisor, but it's still weighing heavy on my mind.

I miss old friends. It doesn't register in my mind how such good friends could just split. All I know is that I miss them, it still kind of hurts, and I just want things to be how they were.

How do people know who God is or how amazing He is and just ignore Him? They go through life completely aware of His presence and just don't care. They use drugs, alcohol, sex, money, anything that is only of this world to get through life without a single thought about their eternity. There's a song that has these lyrics: "It would be crazy to choose this world over eternity." It is so true. I just don't understand.

Why is forgiveness so difficult? Maybe it's not even the forgiveness part that is hard; maybe it's the forgetting, or putting aside. I keep trying to get past this obstacle and it is so hard to do so.

I'm considering getting a new job. Where? I have a couple ideas. I feel in some ways it's right, and in others that it's not quite time yet.

There has been so much weighing me down lately. I feel like everytime God gives me the strength to get through one thing, something else piles itself on. I don't have the energy to do it alone, I need God so much right now. I need strength. Please keep me in your prayers.

My Desire

2008-10-05T16:01:00.002-04:00

5.A wise man will hear and increase in learning and a man of understanding will aquire wise counsel....7.The fear of the Lord is the begining of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:5&7

I'm not perfect, but I am forgiven. He has forgiven me.

Lord, I have a desire. Fill my life with Your presence, reign in me, Lord. Fill me with Your love and Your joy, so that when others look at me they see You. Give me Your wisdom and understanding. Fill me with Your knowledge.
I don't want to be defined by this world, I want to be defined by You. You are my Father, You are my Savior, I am Yours. I am Yours.

Recharge please?

2008-09-17T23:45:00.004-04:00

I am really starting to feel the effects of full-time work and full-time school, plus volunteering on the weekend. I am completely DRAINED, just like a battery.
I wish I could just take one whole day to relax and recharge.

Homework has finished me. I'm off to sleep before another day of school and work. Goodnight.

Birthday Summary & Thank You's

2008-09-16T23:36:00.003-04:00

My birthday was quite enjoyable. =]

Lunch on Sunday was amazing. I had a good time. That cake was amazing (thanks Yoel, Stacie, Miguel, Amy, and Carson!!), although I'm still not too sure what was up with that happy birthday song. LOL. It was great to share it with both family and friends.
Lunch on Monday, my actual birthday, was also amazing, thank you Kevis and Jordan. I LOOOVE On The Border. =]
Dinner on Monday, was cool. I missed Leah and Jason though, the party animals of the family. =] But it was nice to see everyone who could make it.
Spent a little bit here and there, mostly everywhere though, hah, and I can't wait to go shopping with Leah on Friday.

To those of you who took the time to make my day just a little bit more special, I appreciate it and you had such a great impact on my day. I love all of you and couldn't be more blessed with such awesome friends and family.

A couple of highlights:
-Yoel and the waitor making it wayyy obvious that they were going to surprise me with cake.
-Pamela's late night text that reads "Happy birthday beautiful monkey of my heart!"
-Getting my room painted.
-Waking up at 7a.m. to a phone call from the number "011-186-80000000" (I'm not even kidding) and someone singing on the other end. I seriously thought I had lost it, LOL.
-Cats and dogs seemed to be unusually skiddish around me, in a funny way.
-My cake didn't have candles. My candle(singular) had a cake. Evidently, in my house, we only have table candles...big coconut ones....

Overall, it was an awesome day! Thanks for sharing it with me, everyone! =]

It's not religion...

2008-09-14T08:34:00.001-04:00

...it's a relationship with God.

Found a cool site. NOTRELIGION.com

Unloading my thoughts...

2008-09-07T21:57:00.002-04:00

"Never tell God how big the storm is, tell the storm how big your God is."
--A good phrase for life in general and also for the recent hurricane activities.

"Because He forgives us, we must also forgive."
--Sometimes the scars remind us of how much we went threw. Sometimes, it can be so hard to remember and you get this feeling in your gut that just makes you want to curl up and die. But, as Christians, God has forgiven us time and time again, no matter what, He looks past what we do wrong. As Christians, we should do the same; forgive even when it's the hardest.

Sometimes, being one of five children(especially the middle one), makes it hard to see what I actually do have. Growing up, I can guarantee that there was at least one of us saying "well why can't i have what he/she has".
I always seem to have the short end of things. When I shared a room, I got the smallest areas. When I got my own room, I got the smallest room. I always seem to look at what I don't have, rather than what I do have.
I have a home. I have a room. I have my OWN room. I have a bed. I have clothes. I have air-conditioning. I have a family, though sometimes broken, still a whole family.
God has blessed me even when I overlook those blessings. I have more than so many people have. And for that, I will be thankful.

If God is on MY side, who can be against ME?

2008-09-06T15:09:00.002-04:00

It's coming up, yes, my 18th birthday.
Though I have a bit of the normal excitement, my 18th birthday will be a bit more nerve racking than a normal one would.

Last year, I was going through so much. Between my family falling apart and almost losing the person I cared for most, I really was not myself. I acted like the someone I swore I'd never be.
In doing so, I got myself into alot of trouble. Yes, with my parents, yes, with my friends...but that's not what I'm talking about.
Unfortunately, I got myself into a situation I could not handle; a co-worker wanted to be a little more than that, but when I didn't, he didn't let go.
The situation resulted in me having to quit my job, not sleeping for weeks at a time, being scared anywhere I'd go, and eventually, having to get a restraining order(RO).

Because I was only 16 at the time I got the RO, it had to be in both mine and my mother's name and would only be temporary, expiring on my 18th birthday.

I've been praying for a while now, about whether or not I should try to get a permanent one. As time has passed, I realize more and more that God really is bigger than any circumstance I may come across. After all, a RO is only a piece of paper and God is so much bigger than written words. He is so much stronger than any police officer and a better shield of protection. He is so much better.

I've finally come to a decision. Though I'm scared and nervous, I've decided to go with the best protection there is; God.
I trust Him more than I trust this world. I believe in Him more than I believe in this world. I know He will rescue me, just like He has time and time again.

If you could please pray for me. For my fears to go away and that this guy would just forget everything that has happened. That he would just give up and never try to do anything again. That he and I could just go on living our seperate lives.
Thanks.

Just a little bit lonely.

2008-09-04T22:42:00.002-04:00

Have you ever felt lonely?

You know that you're not, but you just feel it.

Although it makes me a little sad to feel this way, I think that it's a good feeling, sort of like a reminder that we DO have people who love us and care for us, and that we shouldn't take them for granted.

It's so easy to just forget to say Thank You, and so hard to say I love you. Did you ever think of how you might change the world if you let maybe just a few more people know that they're loved? Maybe a they need to feel a bit more appreciated?
Maybe your loved one need to be hugged or held. Maybe a stranger is having a bad day and needs to know that the entire world is not against them. Did you ever think about the difference you could make in this world with just one, two, or three simple words?

God created language. He's blessed you enough to let you speak it, whichever one you may speak. Use it for Him.

Do you know the Muffin Man?

2008-08-31T22:21:00.001-04:00

Yes, the one who lives on Jury Lane?

Well, meet the Mufflex Man. Yes, the one who lives on SR7.

Denny's

2008-08-31T12:26:00.006-04:00

After HipHop 4 Hightops, several of went out to Denny's, it was like 1 in the morning. It was fun, but we were all ready to pass out by the time we were done...

...Alex tried to...

..but as he was attempting to, Moses jumped on him.

It was pretty funny. =]

You'll always be...

2008-08-28T22:22:00.003-04:00

It's rare that Kevis and I don't see each other at least once a day, even if it's only for 5 minutes. Today is one of those days.

I'd just like to say, that it's not until something isn't there do you realize how much it is really a part of you. It's not until I don't see him do I realize how much I miss him.
He's become such a big part of me. Seeing him is something I look forward to each day. I'd rather be with him, even in an argument, than be away from him without one.
So many people throughout our relationship have put us down, some even said that we shouldn't even be together, but something that they don't understand is that we're more than a couple...we're best friends.
I believe that "soul mates" can be someone other than a significant other, your best friend. And he is that to me, the ups and downs of our relationship have proved that.
It is rare for people today to be able to say that no matter what happens, they will always be friends, but for us, I know that's true. And that is such an amazing blessing from God.

(Sorry, guys, if you thought that was sappy, it's about to get even more sappy.)
Kev, I love you. I admire you. I'm so blessed and grateful to have you in my life. I miss you and I hate being away from you. You're truly one of a kind and I'm glad I get to be the one you share your days with. <3

"In the sunlight or the rain, brightest nights or darkest days, I'll always feel the same way. Whatever road, you may be on, know you're never too far gone. My love is there, wherever you may be. Just remember, that you'll always be my baby."
-Always Be My Baby by Sara Evans

Busy

2008-08-27T16:05:00.002-04:00

As most of you know, I love to write and read. So, I decided that it might be fun to take a poetry class this semester...NOT.
It's crazy difficult and boring. The Professor's voice goes on forever and he doesn't explain things. GRR.

Kev and I went with Jordan to get his Industrial piercing. BLAH, i hate blood and needles.

I'll be working tonight. School in the morning and then work tomorrow evening. Then work again Friday. And, of course, I'll be at church for the weekend.
BUSY BUSY BUSY.

I'm off to get some caffeine before work. Later.

A FewThings

2008-08-24T22:57:00.003-04:00

One, did anyone catch the Olympic finale? How incredible was that?
I'm emotional now that it's over. There were so many inspiring stories behind the athletes competing and it was just an amazing experience, even to watch on TV. From the opening ceremonies to the finale, it was just completely breath taking. It's hard to watch something so beautiful end, but I guess it has to.

Two, I googled "Flamingo Road Church" today and, among the other funny pictures I found, one specifically stood out.

I'm not sure where it came from, but it's amazing how much time some people have on their hands. LOL.

Three, this weekend was bad to good, which is always better than good to bad. =]
Saturday night was a pretty stressful evening. I've never found myself feeling so upset in church. I was a little embarrassed to tell a couple people why, but I'm glad I wasn't the only one feeling the way I did, for the reason I did. It felt so much better to get it off my chest.
Sunday was much better, a little too early, but better. LOL. I was in charge of the projectors this morning, and that is the most my heart has ever started to race during a service. Between the intensity of the curtain drop and trying to do everything on time and trying not to look down below the balcony (i'm afraid of heights), it was so nerve-racking. Thank God that everything went according to plan!

That's it for tonight. I'm pretty tired and I have to be to work in the morning.
Later!

"That's a big deck!"

2008-08-20T11:13:00.004-04:00

First day of school and already Jackson Sr. High is on lockdown? Geez!

So, I am incredibly nervous about school. Even when I still thought I had classes Tuesday, I was more excited than nervous. But today, when I woke up, I was just hit by all these negative thoughts and I just got so nervous.
I know I'll be okay, it's just, well, it is my first time in school since 6th grade! That's pretty nerve racking if you ask me.

I finished reading TRUE BELIEVER by Nicholas Sparks, but after I finished reading, I discovered he had written a second part to the story, AT FIRST SIGHT. He is truly an amazing writer. Both books are breath taking!

My sister got a new laptop last week, she had been using my dad's old one but wanted her own. So I've been using my dad's old one.
Yesterday, I finally finished setting it up with everything that I wanted on it. So I'm all set!
She says to be careful though, cause every once in a while i t will shut off without warning. Anyone have any ideas what it might be so I can fix it?

The Olympics are amazing. Even though I had never heard of Michael Phelps before the Olympics, he is one of the most inspiring athletes I know, and I am such a huge fan of him now. His passion and spirit and effort for his swimming is enough to make anyone want to swim!
Shawn Johnson and Nastia Luiken, as well. They are amazing gymnists! They had such great attitudes, even when the judges seemed to be unfair, and it just goes to show that it pays off to work hard and have a good attitude.

Well, I'm off to do some things before work. God bless!

Chaos

2008-08-18T10:41:00.002-04:00

Life has proven to be pretty crazy this past week.

First, my job is under new management. We've gone to an extremely laid back manager to an overly strict manager. Pretty rough change, but we're getting through it. The store is a mess though.

Second, this whole "FAY" thing. My raents always freak out when there's even a "o.oooo1%" chance a hurricane will hit us. So they've been going crazy since Saturday, moving things around all over the house...and putting up shutters??
Also, the mall isn't closed, so I'll still have to go to work. I don't mind, but if I endup getting stuck in the mall with thousands of people and no air conditioning, that will suck. lol.

Third, BCC, or BC as they have renamed it, is the only school in broward open. So, I'll still be going to my first day of college tomorrow. I'm nervous and excited, and not sure what to expect.

Here's to starting another day of chaos! God bless you all and stay safe!

Forgiveness

2008-07-29T22:29:00.002-04:00

Over the past year, I've been working really hard on improving my relationships with other people. Whether it be with my parents, boyfriend, or friends. It's been tough, sometimes more than others, but little by little I'm improving. Yet, no matter how much I improve, there's still one area I have not...forgiveness.
Now, don't get me wrong, I do forgive, very easily. As a matter of fact, I'm known to give out second/third/fourth/etc. chances WAY too easily. The forgiveness that I struggle with is the kind that is deep. I mean, these wounds are just miles of deep pain and agony, resurfacing without warning.
As we all do, I've had my share of hard circumstances, and most, I've made it through alright. But there's a couple, one in particular, that I just can't let go of.
Everytime I think about it, it's as if the wound is fresh. Everytime I hear something about it, I just want to scream. Everytime I see this person, I just have this anger that builds up inside of me. It's not that I think this person is the most horrible on the planet, it's just, what they did to me just..it just cut to deep.
I feel like I have forgiven them. But I find myself continuously fighting away the feeling for revenge. I always win the fight, but the feeling just keeps resurfacing. And it makes me question, "Have I really forgiven them?"
I've prayed and though most of it has healed, I still struggle. I hate the feeling that it leaves behind and I just want to move on. I hate holding on to things in the past, but I can't seem to shake this.

As I continue to pray for a humble and forgiving heart, please keep me in your prayers, as well. I'll really appreciate it.

I'd rather have you TESTED and true.

2008-07-21T18:17:00.003-04:00

I feel completely tested. I'm trying and trying with this research, and I just keep finding nothing. I feel so frustrated.

I have orientation for school tomorrow. I'm upset that I didn't know about QUICKstart. Why do the kids who apply late get the special one day sign-up? And the people who have been waiting have to go through a split-orientation?

This week really is not my week so far. =X

I didn't know Gas Stations went fishing.

2008-07-09T18:53:00.003-04:00

That's right. This video (http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?cl=8732718) show that Gas Stations are attracting people with bait (low prices advertised) and catch them (with the credit fee). Take a look for yourself. Quite interesting.

In other news, I hurt my shoulder at work today. Most of you who know me, know that I have what doctor's call "loose joints." Every joint in my body can pop in and out of socket, usually I don't feel a thing, but there has been a couple times where the pain just won't stop.
I first discovered this issue in my freshman year of highschool, about four years ago, after batting practice. The left side of my collar bone was an inch higher than the right. I went to expert after expert, and all they could come up with was that I had loose joints.
Hallmark's getting ready for it's ornament premiere this weekend, "Christmas in July", and my boss and I were setting up the display. We forgot to attatch a certain chord to an ornament and instead of taking the whole thing apart, I attempted to hand it up to her. I guess I reached just a little too far and my entire shoulder is in pain.
If you could keep me in your prayers, I'd really appreciate it. My family can't really afford the doctor's at the moments, so I'm trusting God on this one.

Lots of love. <33

It would be interesting to know.

2008-07-08T17:39:00.002-04:00

If I could ask God a question, I think I'd ask Him what His favorite color is.
He had such an imagination in creating colors in the first place, it would be so amazing to know which one He had the most fun creating.
I've been looking around lately, and He's used so much green in nature and used such ALOT of blue in the sky. He created such a big ball of yellow (the sun), and so much more.

This week has been interesting.
Friday was probably the most uneventful Fourth of July I've ever experienced. First off, I had to work. It was extremely boring, considering there were no customers. Second, the barbeque my family planned, wasn't much of a barbeque. Third, the place I always go see fireworks at (Perry Airport) rescheduld for the following night due to the rain.
I think the only fun parts of my day were watching Stir of the Echos and getting icecream from Coldstone with Kevis and Jordan.
Saturday and Sunday, I spent them at church. Saturday's movie night was a good turn out. And the worship, in my opinion, was spectacular.
Monday, I worked, as usual. And I got to sign up for orientation for BCC. I think it's finally starting to kick in that I actually am in college.

Anyways, I'm guna go eat some dinner.

2008-06-24T17:47:00.002-04:00

It's been a while since my last blog.

This weekend was amazing. I got to learn the cameras this Sunday at church, i've got to say it's pretty sweet. Alot easier than I expected.
Worship was soooooo sweet. It just made an amazing atmosphere.

It was also my dad's birthday on Friday. We celebrated Saturday night, so that everyone could make it. It rare lately to have the family all together.

Work is just getting worse by the day...after I get my college schedule, I'm going to put in a few applications.

"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Phillippians 4:13

How can I stand here and not be moved by You?

2008-06-18T17:35:00.001-04:00

I love music. I love the emotion and the passion that is put into producing it and that comes from listening to it.
It's funny how a simple song can make you cry/laugh/sing/jump/dance.
Chris and I have been working on a song, and I'm really excited about it. =]

Work is stressful. I'd rather not discuss that. It just gets me frustrated.

Home is home. A little hectic, but God's watching over.

I'm...I'm good. I'm more content with life lately. Mess after mess keeps coming my way and I just fly through them...one lap at a time ;).

Psalm 32:8-11
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you. DO not be as the horse or the mule which have no understanding, whose trappings include bit and bridle to hold them in check, otherwise they will not come near you. Many are the sorrows of the wicked, but he who trusts in the LORD, lovingkindness shall surround him. Be glad in the LORD and rejoice, you righteous ones; and shout for joy, all you who are upright in heart.

Graduation Party

2008-06-09T00:20:00.002-04:00

My party was pretty fun. Thanks to all those who were there. It really meant alot to me that you were, it showed who you really are in my life and I really appreciate you guys.

I feel a little down, though. You'd think your best friend since 3rd grade would be there on such an important day, or at least call. Unfortunately, it seems I have alot of "friends" who like to say they are friends but really just don't care. For real, no sugar coating it, you just don't care.

I've realized alot over the past year and a half that God gives you everyone who is in your life and He will just as easily take it back, if and when He needs to. I'm glad that He is showing me who my real friends are, but just like He spoke in the Bible, I will keep my enemies closest.
Not to say that they are enemies because they don't care, but obviously God has placed them in my life, or me in theirs, for a reason, and I won't let Satan take away my purpose. I will still be a true friend to those who aren't to me, just like Jesus was and is. I know God has great plans for me and I will help as many as He will allow me to.
It just goes to show how you can turn a good from a bad. And even though it does hurt, He will heal my hurt.

Overall, it was a good night and I'm very grateful for it.

Here's to the memories, both good and bad. And to the future, both happy and sad.

2008-06-06T18:23:00.004-04:00

What is family?
Is family just the people whose blood you share? Are they still considered family when they treat you like a stranger?
From my experiences, I no longer believe that family is those you share blood with, but they are the people who sincerely care about you and accept you no matter what.
I do not believe in a family who treats even their own children as strangers. How could someone do such a thing? Family should consist of the people you would die for. It amazes me that people can be so selfish and inconsiderate and hypocritical.
How can you make someone who you supposedly care so much for fight for their self, by their self? How could you reject the last person who actually wanted to talk to you? What goes on in your mind that makes you think that everyone must live as harsh a life as you had to live? Sure, it was unfortunate, but I bet that if someone in your position had come up to you at that time and offered help, you would have taken it. So, now that you are in your position, why won't you help? Weren't you the man who swore that a man is nothing without family? So why do you turn away when they need you most? You're lucky that you're rejecting such a forgiving person. You're lucky that God chose to bless you with such an amazing family member. You're so lucky that God chose to bless you with someone the total opposite of you. After all that has happened within your family, it amazes me that you would believe her over him. You're not always right. You may be older, but you have no wisdom. You're very naive. You swear that you're this big man of God, but God would never turn away from someone crying for His help. God has given you the resources to help others and you use them for your own selfish needs.

I hope one day you realize how much you're hurting the ones who love you and the ones who believed you when everyone else was accusing you of wrong and the ones who never turned their back on you.

Long Weekend

2008-06-03T17:40:00.002-04:00

It's been pretty busy since my last post.

Thursday was awesome!!!! The finale of LOST was incredible.

Friday was an interesting evening. I got to see some people I havn't seen in a long time, some of them I had fun "reuniting" with, others I really didn't want to see them. But all in all, it was a good night.
It struck me that night that forgiveness is a very important thing in life. Even though it's hard, it should still be done. I learned that I really don't hate anyone and that God will take my old wounds if I ask Him, too.

Saturday, which is my one and only day of the week to sleep in, I was up at 7am. I was so upset! I couldn't sleep! So, I did laundry, and then headed off to church at 12. After church, Kev and I headed off to Jordan's for his Graduation party. It was pretty much over by the time we got there, but they were just getting the fire started! And I'm not kidding, a fire truck even showed up cause his neighbors called the police on him. lol. It was a good night, but I wish I would've gone home sooner.

Sunday, I was so tired. I had to be at church at 7am, and I didnt get home till 12. But I stayed at church all day, even until pulse. After Pulse, Kev and I headed to Hollywood beach for the Baptism/Concert our church was having. It was awesome, except for the weirdo drunk dude. lol.

Yesterday and today were pretty much the same. Work and then nothing.
Except today, Kev's on his way over for dinner, then we're going shopping. =]

Inspiration Strikes

2008-05-30T17:57:00.003-04:00

I love writing, if you didn't know already know. I wish I could play an insturment, so that when I did write lyrics, I had music to put with them. Anyhow, here are some lyrics I wrote, enjoy.

Title: WITHOUT ME
The wind is blowing
And the rain is falling
This storm is so well-deserved
I couldn't take the swerve
I'm watching these deep, grey skies
They remind me of your eyes
I should have known better
So we could have been together

I broke it all, it's all my fault
I broke everything we were supposed to be
And there you go, you're running free
Without me
I lost it all, it's all my fault
I lost all we had built together
And there you go, you're so much better
Without me

This shame is showing
It's raining like it's pouring
I wish I would have learned before
So that your heart wasn't torn
I'm standing in this cold and shaming rain
Wishing I could take back the pain
I took for granted what we had
I'm sorry this ended so sad

I broke it all, it's all my fault
I broke everything we were supposed to be
And there you go, you're running free
Without me
I lost it all, it's all my fault
I lost all we had built together
And there you go, you're so much better
Without me

Without me, without you, without me
And forgiveness is the last thing on your mind
I should have been a bit more kind
I'm sorry, sorry, sorry, baby
I never meant to be so cruel
I've made myself such a fool

I broke it all, it's all my fault
I broke everything we were supposed to be
And there you go, you're running free
Without me
I lost it all, it's all my fault
I lost everything we had built together
And there you go, you're so much better
Without me
Without me
I broke it all
It's all my fault

Fear

2008-05-29T19:43:00.002-04:00

Fear is a weird feeling. Who would have thought that just an emotion could consume your entire body? Fear is something that we all, ironically, fear.

Like heights. I'm terrified of them. Put me at the top of a three story building and make me look down, you'll have me sweating in a split-second.

But God created fear to teach us something. Sometimes the fear, like heights, is to teach us to be careful. Sometimes it teaches us that something is dangerous. Sometimes it teaches us that we CAN overcome what lies in our way.

Fear is something that we can control. It's hard, but it's possible.

God, help me find the possible...'cause I'm so scared.

2008-05-28T17:52:00.003-04:00

It's finally hitting me that highschool is over. And the more I realize it, the more I get nervous. I have so many worries and concerns for college and they just start overwhelming me when I start thinking of them all.

I'm sooo hungry right now. I'm craving pineapple.

Midnight Ramble

2008-05-25T00:19:00.003-04:00

Today was an interesting day. In large, even fairly large, groups of people, I like to sit back and observe the actions and conversations. You can really learn alot about people that way. And today was a great opportunity to do that.
It was also the first time in a while that I spent an entire day at home. I got to see my sister for the first time in about two weeks. SInce she's living at school now I rarely see her. I miss spending time with her like I used to, even though sometimes she could drive me up a wall. I miss our late night talks and knowing she's just a few steps away. I really could have done without my brothers today, though, lol. It seems like every 5 minutes they are in some argument about some petty thing and, boy, does that want to make you scream. I now realize why my mom was always so frustrated when my sisters and I were always arguing. I'll never forget the very rare couple of times that she finally got so frustrated that she finally said, "You want to fight each other!? Fine! Go ahead, go at it and let me know when your done!" And all we could do was laugh. Sometimes I miss being that young, when everything is as simple as having mom break up the fights, put band-aids on the wounds, and take care of everything else.
Childhood is a silly thing. We are so anxcious as children to become adults and when we finally get there we crave our childhood. We hate naps and quiet time as children and as adults what we wouldn't do for those five quiet minutes in the corner and that half hour nap. For me, alot of the time, its the fine quiet minutes ALONE in the corner that I crave. LOL. Not just childhood, but life is just silly that way.

End of ramble. Goodnight.

Sweet Dreams

2008-05-23T23:52:00.003-04:00

Kev and I went to see Narnia, tonight. The movie was awesome, but some of the script got me to thinking.
There was a part when Lucie tells Peter that maybe they had to prove themselves to Azland(sp?) in order for him to reveal himself to them.
Now, I know that God doesn't require us to "prove" ourselves to him, but He simply waits for us to invite Him in. He has given us a choice to believe or not to believe.
I hate hearing when people say "Well, if God is real then where was He was this and this happened?" It's not that He wasn't there. He's everywhere, all the time, He's just simply waiting for the SINCERE invitation into our lives.

I've also been trying very hard to develop patience. I've never been good at it, even in softball I just COULD NOT wait for that change-up. I am, however, better than I was, but I feel so tired of trying. Every single day, I am tested. Sometimes, I cave in, other times I'm a little stronger, but I just can't seem to be strong enough in this area. It's frustrating. (As I'm writing this, I'm realizing that I'm getting impatient with my impatience.) Any advice?

Tonight, Kev and I went to dinner, as well. We went to On the Border, which happens to be my favorite place to eat. It was really good. I'm glad he and I can spend time together like that. I really enjoy knowing that he's always there. God's really blessed me with him.

Well, I'm off to bed.

Ode to Oreos

2008-05-22T00:11:00.003-04:00

Oreos, the double stuff, crunchy, in my tummy. Oreos, cream so buff, munchy, and oh so yummy.
Oreos

Thank you. =]

Video

2008-05-20T18:10:00.001-04:00

This is an amazing video.

"Some people are afraid to ask God because they are afraid He might ask them to change."

2008-05-20T17:43:00.002-04:00

Life's not a simple task. In fact, most of the time, it's quite a burden. I've heard the phrase "God won't give us anything we can't handle" plenty of times, but when you're in a certain situation, that can sometimes feel impossible. It's true though. God knows everything. He gives us these struggles to strengthen us for what He has created us for. Sometimes the struggle is harder than before, but He knows we CAN handle it. He IS our strength and will walk with us. He knows the world and the hardships and the pain, He created them. And He created us to better this world.
I find it amazing that He has chosen each person, individually, for a certain purpose on the earth. It's such an honor that God would choose something especially for me.
Satan's really been on my case lately. And it's been a struggle. But I know God is here by my side and I will get through.

If you're feeling like life is a never-ending circle of hard-ship, just know that God is there waiting for you to ask Him for His help. He'll come, right away, and He'll never leave.

First Post

2008-05-19T15:15:00.000-04:00

This past week has been crazy! I worked 7 days in a row and then volunteered 2 days at church. I'm exhausted!
Church this weekend, though long and hectic, was amazing.
I have to go back to work tomorrow, =/

Anyhow, I don't really have much else to say for my first blog, but you have to start somewhere, right?

God bless, and have a terrific week.