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Last night I was talking to my little sister, Kayla, and I told her I was thinking about trying a Spinning class. "Why?! Spinning people are CRAZY!! That stuff is nuts!" she told me. I'd never actually seen a Spinning class before- just read about them and thought it could be cool. But I also had already told my friend Rosalyn and her mom that I would meet them at the gym this morning for the class!
Now, if you don't know what Spinning is, it's an insanely intense workout on a stationary bike. You are constantly standing up, then back down, then up, then down (you get the picture) and all the while adjusting the tension to simulate riding up & down hills. I can't remember the last time I sweated so much in an hour! Kayla was right- it IS crazy- but I had fun, and I think I might try it again.
As a result of my spinning class, though, I had a rough afternoon at work- my legs were SORE and it was hard to stand for several hours straight. Triple venti, half-calf, 4 pump, sugar-free hazelnut, non-fat Latte, anyone?
Saturday, July 30, 2005
Friday, July 29, 2005
TGIF
Seriously, I have tried to post to this thing several times this past week, but every time something has kept me from it (obviously, since there's nothing new). Twice I got caught by the clock and had to run out before I was done and couldn't manage to recover what I had written, and the one time I had enough to time to write a LOT and finish putting all my thoughts down, I hit the wrong button and erased it all. Oh well!
So anyway... it's been a really, really good week. I have to say, I am LOVING my job as a barista! Yes, it's still a ton to learn, but the people I work with are so nice and fun, and I've had lots of opportunities to meet customers, which is very cool. And I can have all the coffee I can drink! Also, my dad stopped here on his way to Charleston for work, so I got to spend some time with him this week and that was great.
There have been a lot of things this week that have been incredible, and while I would love to count all the ways God has blessed me the past few days and share that long list with you, it all seems unimportant. The bottom line is- every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like the shifting shadows (James 1:17). God is teaching me to look to Him in every single thing, bad or good, and find my satisfaction in HIM, not in my good circumstances. Just like Peter, I will most definitely sink if I take my eyes off the Lord. I am so grateful for all He has provided, but ultimately, I'm most thankful for Jesus, who gives me life every day.
The other thing God has taught me recently (ie: in the past 12 hours) is that everything He's teaching me is for RIGHT NOW. I love to read Oswald Chambers' My Utmost for His Highest at night, and last night was a big one for me. I had just been talking to a friend about how good things are going and how God must have amazing plans for me here (because things seem to be going so well), and Oswald reminded me that this isn't necessarily the case. The title of the devotional was "After obedience- what?" and the whole point was that God looks at our obedience, He's not trying to teach us obedience to prepare us for something else. Obedience is it! "His purpose is for this minute, not for something in the future...what men call training and preparation, God calls the end... it is the process, not the end, which is glorifying to God." It was a little scary to read this last night and think, "Wait, maybe there's not some huge plan that this is getting me ready for!" but as I re-read the devo a couple of times, got some good sleep, and woke up and had a good long chat with God, I know that He still has a plan for me, and I trust that it's better than anything I could come up with on my own. But now I realize too that all this stuff I've just shared with you, this is the conclusion He wanted me to come to today. He might build on this lesson tomorrow or next week, but it's not about the future- it's about now.
So anyway... it's been a really, really good week. I have to say, I am LOVING my job as a barista! Yes, it's still a ton to learn, but the people I work with are so nice and fun, and I've had lots of opportunities to meet customers, which is very cool. And I can have all the coffee I can drink! Also, my dad stopped here on his way to Charleston for work, so I got to spend some time with him this week and that was great.
There have been a lot of things this week that have been incredible, and while I would love to count all the ways God has blessed me the past few days and share that long list with you, it all seems unimportant. The bottom line is- every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like the shifting shadows (James 1:17). God is teaching me to look to Him in every single thing, bad or good, and find my satisfaction in HIM, not in my good circumstances. Just like Peter, I will most definitely sink if I take my eyes off the Lord. I am so grateful for all He has provided, but ultimately, I'm most thankful for Jesus, who gives me life every day.
The other thing God has taught me recently (ie: in the past 12 hours) is that everything He's teaching me is for RIGHT NOW. I love to read Oswald Chambers' My Utmost for His Highest at night, and last night was a big one for me. I had just been talking to a friend about how good things are going and how God must have amazing plans for me here (because things seem to be going so well), and Oswald reminded me that this isn't necessarily the case. The title of the devotional was "After obedience- what?" and the whole point was that God looks at our obedience, He's not trying to teach us obedience to prepare us for something else. Obedience is it! "His purpose is for this minute, not for something in the future...what men call training and preparation, God calls the end... it is the process, not the end, which is glorifying to God." It was a little scary to read this last night and think, "Wait, maybe there's not some huge plan that this is getting me ready for!" but as I re-read the devo a couple of times, got some good sleep, and woke up and had a good long chat with God, I know that He still has a plan for me, and I trust that it's better than anything I could come up with on my own. But now I realize too that all this stuff I've just shared with you, this is the conclusion He wanted me to come to today. He might build on this lesson tomorrow or next week, but it's not about the future- it's about now.
Wednesday, July 20, 2005
Sattelite, in my eyes, like a diamond in the sky... (dmb)
Well, I survived my first day of barista training! It was a little overwhelming and a lot of fun! I made more frappucino's than I can count today, and only spilled one of them all over me (it's harder than it looks to get that stuff out of the blender!) I'll keep training the rest of this week and all next week, and then get certified next Friday. Who knew you had to be certified to make coffee?!?!?
Last night I went to 7/22. (www.722.org if you want to check it out) It's a HUGE bible study for singles in the Atlanta area. I don't know how many people were there, a couple thousand maybe? Anyway, it was more like a rock concert or sporting event- standing room only in the aisles and along the walls, lines out the door for the restrooms, chaos leaving the parking lot... definitely not what I'm used to after Deer Creek, but it was amazing. I kept thinking how cool it was that no matter what had drawn all those people there, they were hearing the Word of God and praising Him. Pretty amazing stuff. The speaker, Louie Giglio, gave a great talk about grace. He used some neat illustrations, and it all sparked a flood of thoughts that keep the wheels in my head spinning well into the night.
The theme of the message was "Grace = God at Work". For it is by grace you have been saved... for it is by [God at work] you have been saved. Something to think about. One particular illustration that got me thinking was- we cannot fathom the sun's brightness, which led to thought that in the same way, the Son is unfathomable because of His brightness. We will never- can never- fully comprehend his righteousness, mercy, or grace. Incredible! I love the sun and the Son, and I really like sun: Son analogies. I can't remember where I heard it, but my favorite is-- As the moon reflects the sun, may I reflect the Son. The moon would be nothing and of no worth to us if not for the sun. In the same way, I would be nothing without Jesus. I wouldn't even be alive! That alone should compel me to action for His glory.
Pray that I would be the moon at Starbucks. I don't want people to look at me and see a girl who moves around a lot or even a religious person. I want people to see Jesus.
For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should NO LONGER LIVE FOR THEMSELVES BUT FOR HIM who died for them and was raised again. 2 corinthians 5:14-15 (emphasis added)
ps- i got a pet!! my friend rosalyn gave me a red & blue beta fish as a housewarming gift! her name is ruby, and yes- her new home has a lid (in case you're concerned)
Last night I went to 7/22. (www.722.org if you want to check it out) It's a HUGE bible study for singles in the Atlanta area. I don't know how many people were there, a couple thousand maybe? Anyway, it was more like a rock concert or sporting event- standing room only in the aisles and along the walls, lines out the door for the restrooms, chaos leaving the parking lot... definitely not what I'm used to after Deer Creek, but it was amazing. I kept thinking how cool it was that no matter what had drawn all those people there, they were hearing the Word of God and praising Him. Pretty amazing stuff. The speaker, Louie Giglio, gave a great talk about grace. He used some neat illustrations, and it all sparked a flood of thoughts that keep the wheels in my head spinning well into the night.
The theme of the message was "Grace = God at Work". For it is by grace you have been saved... for it is by [God at work] you have been saved. Something to think about. One particular illustration that got me thinking was- we cannot fathom the sun's brightness, which led to thought that in the same way, the Son is unfathomable because of His brightness. We will never- can never- fully comprehend his righteousness, mercy, or grace. Incredible! I love the sun and the Son, and I really like sun: Son analogies. I can't remember where I heard it, but my favorite is-- As the moon reflects the sun, may I reflect the Son. The moon would be nothing and of no worth to us if not for the sun. In the same way, I would be nothing without Jesus. I wouldn't even be alive! That alone should compel me to action for His glory.
Pray that I would be the moon at Starbucks. I don't want people to look at me and see a girl who moves around a lot or even a religious person. I want people to see Jesus.
For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should NO LONGER LIVE FOR THEMSELVES BUT FOR HIM who died for them and was raised again. 2 corinthians 5:14-15 (emphasis added)
ps- i got a pet!! my friend rosalyn gave me a red & blue beta fish as a housewarming gift! her name is ruby, and yes- her new home has a lid (in case you're concerned)
Monday, July 18, 2005
Genesis 9:13
I saw a rainbow tonight as I was driving to the coffee shop. I was thankful for the reminder of God’s faithfulness.
So, the big news is that I’m now gainfully employed! YAY!!! I’ll start working at Starbucks this Wednesday, and I’m pretty excited about it. I definitely think it’s a job I’ll enjoy. I am so ready to be working in an environment that will regularly put me in contact with lost people. Not that I didn’t love working at the RAC, because I did. It’s just that I was a light in a sea of lights, and I’m excited about spending some time in the dark, letting my light shine.
God and I had a really good talk last night. I want to share a few of the thoughts I wrote in my journal last night…
It's been a good day. I love it when God reminds me of His presence and His care for me. Thanks for all the prayers- my times with the Lord have been sweet the past few days.Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is too high- I cannot attain it. Psalm 139:6
God is a mystery- and I think I like that about Him. How much better is it that God knows all and I don’t. He knows everything I did and everything I thought today, and He knows exactly what my tomorrow will look like too.
This life is kind of like a birthday, or Christmas.
I know (or at least I think I know) what I want and what would make me happiest.
Sometimes I tell people exactly what I want. Other times I say, “it doesn’t
matter,” but there’s always some desire. There is always anticipation before
receiving the gifts, except it’s not the same when I know what I’m getting.
There’s just a little more adrenaline when you unwrap a surprise. There’s
something fun & exciting about not knowing what you’re about to get.And that’s life, too. It’s mysterious and exciting!
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me. Thank you for surprising me Lord.
Friday, July 15, 2005
I think i have a job!!
Just wanted to share the good news- I had a job interview at Starbucks this morning. As soon as the manager gets the ok from her boss to hire a new person she will call me. I'm hoping to know for sure by Monday. YAY!!!!!!!!
Wednesday, July 13, 2005
Already learning & streching
I will give thanks to the Lord with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders. Psalm 9:1
So, this morning I got a lesson in being thankful for all my circumstances. I had plans to meet one of Erin's friends, Amanda, for breakfast. When I went to take a shower, something wierd was going on with the water, ie: there hardly was any! Granted, there was a steady trickle, but definitely not enough to shower. "Great- now what do I do?!" I was about to call Amanda to bail on her (I was in no shape to go out in public without a shower, especially to meet a potential new friend for the first time!), but I really didn't want to cancel. I decided to grab a big coffee mug and bathe African style. After all, I just spent two weeks in the bush, bathing with only a bucket and mug. As I stood there, I couldn't help but laugh to myself. "I expect stuff like this in other countries, but not in America! Thank you, Lord, for using Kenya to prepare me for Atlanta!"
I'm slowly getting settled and adjusted to my new surroundings. Already, though, I've found myself getting caught up in the busy-ness of things I "need" to do, and putting other things before my time with the Lord. I don't want to settle for this; I can't. Thank you for being faithful, God, even when I'm not.
So, this morning I got a lesson in being thankful for all my circumstances. I had plans to meet one of Erin's friends, Amanda, for breakfast. When I went to take a shower, something wierd was going on with the water, ie: there hardly was any! Granted, there was a steady trickle, but definitely not enough to shower. "Great- now what do I do?!" I was about to call Amanda to bail on her (I was in no shape to go out in public without a shower, especially to meet a potential new friend for the first time!), but I really didn't want to cancel. I decided to grab a big coffee mug and bathe African style. After all, I just spent two weeks in the bush, bathing with only a bucket and mug. As I stood there, I couldn't help but laugh to myself. "I expect stuff like this in other countries, but not in America! Thank you, Lord, for using Kenya to prepare me for Atlanta!"
I'm slowly getting settled and adjusted to my new surroundings. Already, though, I've found myself getting caught up in the busy-ness of things I "need" to do, and putting other things before my time with the Lord. I don't want to settle for this; I can't. Thank you for being faithful, God, even when I'm not.
Monday, July 11, 2005
The Journey Begins
I spent my first night in Georgia last night. So far, so good!! haha!
Seriously, I arrived in Sugar Hill about an hour before Hurricane Dennis did. My new housemate, Lisa, was waiting (and excited!). She's a neat lady, and I think we're going to get along well. Erin is going to be here and move in next weekend.
Yes, LORD, walking in the way of your laws, we wait for you; your name and renown are the desire of our hearts. Isaiah 26:8
I went to Clearwater Community Church in Birmingham yesterday with Tommy, and the pastor referenced this verse. It was already underlined in my bible, but it fits me so perfectly right now. I want to commit to walk in the Lord and wait for Him these next few months, and His name and renown are the desire of my heart. Pray that I will glorify Him in all I say and do.
Seriously, I arrived in Sugar Hill about an hour before Hurricane Dennis did. My new housemate, Lisa, was waiting (and excited!). She's a neat lady, and I think we're going to get along well. Erin is going to be here and move in next weekend.
Yes, LORD, walking in the way of your laws, we wait for you; your name and renown are the desire of our hearts. Isaiah 26:8
I went to Clearwater Community Church in Birmingham yesterday with Tommy, and the pastor referenced this verse. It was already underlined in my bible, but it fits me so perfectly right now. I want to commit to walk in the Lord and wait for Him these next few months, and His name and renown are the desire of my heart. Pray that I will glorify Him in all I say and do.
Tuesday, July 05, 2005
In Transition
I'm home in Louisiana now (listening to the report of Tropical Storm Cindy at the moment).
It was hard saying goodbye to Texas, my home for the past two years, but I'm so excited about what the future holds. My family had a great reunion this past weekend! It was fun seeing everyone and just relaxing in the lake. Now I'm at my parent's house for a few days, spending some time here with them before I take off to "Hot-lanta". It's been good so far.
I'm ready to see what's around the next turn in this journey... what kind of job will I find? who will be my friends? what is God going to teach me? As I've thought back on my time in Kenya as I recounted the trip to my family, over and over I've seen just how faithful God was.
The power just went out, so I need to post this and shut down the computer. Welcome, Cindy!!
(ps- Happy Birthday Dad- I love you!!)
It was hard saying goodbye to Texas, my home for the past two years, but I'm so excited about what the future holds. My family had a great reunion this past weekend! It was fun seeing everyone and just relaxing in the lake. Now I'm at my parent's house for a few days, spending some time here with them before I take off to "Hot-lanta". It's been good so far.
I'm ready to see what's around the next turn in this journey... what kind of job will I find? who will be my friends? what is God going to teach me? As I've thought back on my time in Kenya as I recounted the trip to my family, over and over I've seen just how faithful God was.
The power just went out, so I need to post this and shut down the computer. Welcome, Cindy!!
(ps- Happy Birthday Dad- I love you!!)
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