Friday, June 23, 2006

Colorado

On July 7th, I'll be flying out to see my best friend Lindsay Weinholdt in Colorado. I'm SUPER excited. I canNOT wait! It's going to be so much fun. I'll treasure every second of it! I just wanted to let you all know (to anyone that really reads this!) my excitement on this. Yay! Can't wait!

Sunday, June 18, 2006

Much to say...not enough words

Well, I tried to update the other day, but my computer did something funny to erase it. Anyway, I'll update now...although, I'm warning you now, it could be long! I updated a few days ago to talk about God leading in different and new directions. As most of you know, God called me away from BJ and is leading me up to Maranatha in August. I couldn't be happier. I'm truly excited about going to college there. As for the other direction...well, I'm not too sure about that one yet. I work at a summer daycare and have for the past 4 summers. It's wonderful. I love the kids...the atmosphere...the aspect of teaching kids some things they have never been taught before and seeing that light come on in their eyes that they finally get something or that new piece of information has been told to them and they love it. I absolutely love the children I'm around every day (though some of them do get annoying) and wouldn't change it for the world. Yet, I can't help but feel the tug at my heart for something else, something...different. It has been a dream of mine to work at a camp. I love camp. LOVE it. When I worked at my church camp, I was so sad to see the day come that we had to go. I really miss going to the camp my school used to go to the first week of school. I just miss camp altogether. I want to work a summer at camp...at least once. I'm praying God will lead me there. Who knows where? There are some really good ones. Northland is a big one...CoBeAc is really good...Lucerne is another good one (though being all the way in California is a little hard), and then the Wilds is another great one. I'm sure there are several other ones that are out there. I just want it once. I'm praying God will lead me that way...IF it's His will. I would gladly do the summer daycare again. I'm just...burnt out on it. I need a break from it. 4 summers is a pretty long time to keep doing the same thing over and over again. A break would be nice. Hopefully, I'll get one. But, if not...I'll just thank the Lord for a good job that pays.

On another note...I will hopefully get to see my best friend in a couple weeks. I'll be flying out to Colorado to see Lindsay. I can't wait. I haven't seen her since January when I left BJ and I miss her like crazy! I need to see her and talk with her...face to face. I hope God will work it all out. I just need to make sure the days I have free are ok with her family and then the plane ticket! So, just a little bit more and then we'll see. I can't wait. I've never been to Colorado, so it'll be nice to see some of it and be with Lindz. It'll be amazing.

God has been truly amazing. Especially here recently. He's really shown me more about him. Tonight at church, Pastor Kevin Plew preached. He was one of my first high school (ok, so it was really junior high, but it's practically the same!) teachers. I always enjoyed his teaching and when he spoke. Tonight was no exception. He spoke on being separate from the world and how we as Christians need to be in the world but not of the world. It was something I really needed. A message that I had been trying to forget. I was trying to live as close to the world as I could while still being a "Christian." Well, tonight I really got rebuked and am slowly learning about separating myself. It was a great message that I needed. God has also been teaching so much through different things. My devotions, other people that I respect, and just different circumstances He's brought into my life. It's been a trying time...but a time I won't ever take for granted. God's giving me such a passion to serve God in whatever area He's calling me to. More and more I can feel the tug to go elsewhere, besides Anderson, Indiana to serve Him, and I really want to follow Him. I can't wait to see where He does lead me. It'll be interesting...but I'm excited.

This isn't as long as I thought it would be. That's a good thing! My day starts at 4:30 tomorrow morning, so I'm going to bed. Goodnight all!

Sunday, June 04, 2006

A Challenge

It's been a little while since I've updated here. Sorry friends. I've been busy getting started with work and getting ready for my sister coming home. She's flying from Philadelphia right now to Chicago and my dad will pick her up in Merriville. I'm excited for her to be home. The first week of work went very well. The kids we had are great. And this week, we'll even get a few new ones. As I previously mentioned Quentin Blount...I will talk about him again. Friday night I closed at work. I stayed until 5:30 when Quentin's Mom's...someone came to pick him up. But, I had a good 20 minutes alone with Quentin. He tried to worm his way into treats, but I couldn't give him any since he had been bad. But, I did give him a piggy-back ride around the school. He really enjoyed that. I did too. I really love him. He's honestly so rotten, but, he's captured my heart. I have been praising the Lord all week for giving me a love for children. I only hope that one day, I may influence some children to live their lives for God.

I really want to teach Kindergarten. It was because of my Kindergarten (and 1st grade) teacher that I wanted to go into teaching. Yes, I knew at that young of an age that I wanted to be a teacher. And I still can't imagine doing anything else. I work with 1st-3rd graders this month in Jr. Church at my church and it's the best. The kids are so well behaved and they have a thirst for hearing God's word preached to them on their level. It's wonderful to see God working in children at that age. Every time I'm around kids, I can't help but thank Him for this desire and gift He has given me. I love it!

Well, enough about that. Some of you that read this may or may not know that I used to listen to CC and even some country music. Now, I don't want to get into any sort of discussion...especially on one of these things, but I did want to share what God did in my life. I was thinking about music and how it really is a big part of my life. I realized that I was...well, addicted to CCM. I couldn't go anywhere without having the radio on or a CD in or something. I was then challenged to go one week without listening to anything except Christian...true Christian music. Things that I've gotten from BJ or people when they came and visited my church. I was challenged to see what it would do to my walk with Christ. I had said that it doesn't matter what music you listen to, as long as your walk with God was right. So, I figured it wouldn't be a big deal. I didn't think anything would change. I earnestly prayed that God would change my heart. And I wasn't even a day into my challenge before I honestly felt a huge difference in my walk with God. I've gotten rid of any CCM or country CDs I owned and now, have a deeper, more personal walk with God. I can't describe the feelings other than complete joy and happiness...not to mention the feeling of a burden being lifted off of my shoulders. God has since shown me other things in my life that I needed to change. I never thought I could be so eager to change for God...but I am.

I challenge you to earnestly pray for God to show you anything wrong in your life. Whether it's in the area of music or not...it doesn't matter. We always need to be changing to be more like Christ. Let Him truly work in your life to change you. He wants to. Let Him.

I want to mention again that I don't want to start a big discussion on music or anything. I wanted to share what God had done in me. What He chooses to do with this, is His plan.

"Break up my fallow ground..."

Friday, May 26, 2006

Wondrous Love

O wondrous love, that will not let me go,
I cling to You with all my strength and soul.
Yet if my hold should ever fail,
This wondrous love, will never let me go.

O wondrous love that's come to dwell in me!
Lord, who am I that I should come to know
Your tender voice, assuring me,
Your wondrous love will never let me go?

I'm resting in the everlasting arms,
In the ever-faithful heart,
The Shepherd of my life.
You carry me on Your mighty wings of grace,
Keeping me until the day I look into Your eyes.

O wondrous love, that sings of Calvary,
The sweetest sound this sinner's ever known;
The song of Your redeeming Son,
Whose wondrous love will never let me go.

I'm resting in the everlasting arms,
In the ever-faithful heart,
The Shepherd of my life.
You carry me on Your mighty wings of grace,
Keeping me until the day I look into Your eyes.


O wondrous love that rushes over me,
I can't escape this river's glorious flow.
You overwhelm my days with good.
Your wondrous love will never let me go.

O wondrous love, O wondrous love.
Will never let me go.

This song brings tears to my eyes every time I listen to it. Just to think of God's truly wondrous love to ME...it's indescribable. I can't believe He loves me that much. An unworthy, filthy sinner...yet HE LOVES ME!! I just can't comprehend that. Why would He love me? Why would God love me SO much, He'd send His precious, sinless Son to die MY death? I have yet to understand this. But, I guess that's just what love is. Something you can't comprehend.

I was thinking about God's love today while at work. The kids I work with are truly a blessing. They are some of the sweetest kids I've ever had. One boy had gotten in trouble SO much (yes, I had been a mean one and had disciplined him as best I could while working) and after I had done so, he told someone that I didn't love him any more. I realized then, that yes, I had done my "job" at disciplining him, but I wasn't showing my love for him. So, I went over and talked to him, letting him know how much I do love him, and just wanted him to obey. He then gave me a big hug and said, "I love you, Miss Lisa!" Now, I know to most, that doesn't seem like much, but to me, that meant so much to hear those words come from his mouth. As soon as I get a picture of him, I'll put him on here. His name is Quentin Blount (or just Quentin B) and has a very messed up home life. His dad is in jail yet again and his mom is an alcoholic and doesn't have structure for him. He has learned so much while being here at this school, and I can't thank God enough for that, although he still has a long way to go. But, no matter how bad he is, I love him.

Today was the last day of the school year, which means the summer DayCare starts Tuesday! But it also means that a couple that is very dear to me is leaving that same day to move to Pennsylvania. God has called him there to be a youth pastor (and father in July!!!), so I know they're in God's will. That doesn't help the pain of not having them around any more...but God's in control. They're having a girl due on July 9. I will definitely post a picture of her up here!

Well, my root canal went well today. I was actually pain free during the whole process. But after the numbing medicine wore off...OUCH! But, Tylenol worked wonders! Soon, I'll have my crown put on and be done with it! That's exciting!

My sister is in Chicago. She and 4 of her students and 1 of her best friends are going to Europe this summer. I am so jealous...but I do need to work. But, instead of flying out tonight as they were supposed to, they got caught in a traffic jam (imagine that in Chicago!!!) and missed their flight. They'll head out actually on Sunday. I'm sure they'll all have a great time!

This update is longer than I thought it would be! But, my mom and I are gonna "hang out" tonight, so I shall go. I challenge you all to truly think about the love of God this weekend. Dwell upon it. I'm sure it'll be something you won't regret!

Wednesday, May 24, 2006

On another note...

I decided to put up one more picture on here. I love this picture. Here it is...

This is me and Danny George (my absolute FAVORITE kid and the one with glasses) and his older brother Joey. Yes, their brothers to Matt George in the previous post. I've taught both of them this past semester and while Danny is my favorite, Joey is close behind him!!

Ok, so enough of the pictures! I have to have a root canal on Friday, so I'm in for a little bit of pain there. I'll be glad to get it over with! My tooth has hurt long enough! I'll never take for granted not have a toothache or any sort of tooth related pain. It is the worst! But, God knows what He's doing, so I know I'll be ok. My summer job starts on Tuesday. I can't wait! It's going to be great! God has done some pretty awesome things in my life recently. He never ceases to amaze me with just how good He is. I keep seeing it over and over again. What a truly awesome God we serve! I would love to write more, but time is getting away from me. I have an early, yet fun filled day tomorrow, so I need my rest. Goodnight all and I promise the next update will be sooner!

Graduation 2006

Yes, I know Graduation was Friday, and it's not Wednesday, but I just not got around to getting this pictures up. Enjoy them!




Matt George. He has become one of my good friends these past few years.











Elizabeth Plumb. She is one of my best friends! I love her so much!












Aw...what can I say about Joel Doty?! He's a great guy. We've had some fun times!!
























Where do I begin with him? Ryan Shackelford was my best friend my senior year. He was there for me when nobody else was. He's dating Jill Delaney...one of my GREAT friends...so we don't really hang out any more. But, he's still one of my best friends!

I've got some good friends I'll really miss next year, but as I was told my senior year, "If you're true friends, you'll always stay that way." So, I'm sure to be seeing these guys again some day!

Wednesday, May 17, 2006

Short and sweet...with more to come

Yes, this will be short, because it's late. But I wanted to write and say how awesome my God is. In every minute of every day, I see His hand and see His power so much. He is amazing. Today, my eyes were truly fixed on Him and His creation. So many things came into my mind about Him. He is such an awesome God...truly awesome. I was listening to a CD the other day on my way to Barnes and Noble. This song came on and I was literally in tears as I was driving. The words really speak to me about Christ's death on the cross. Here are the lyrics. Read them, and hopefully tomorrow I'll be able to update more. Goodnight all!

How wide is Your love
That You would stretch Your arms
And go around the world
And why for me would a Savior's cry be heard

I don't know
Why You went where I was meant to go
I don't know
Why You love me so

Those were my nails
That was my crown
That pierced Your hands and Your brow
Those were my thorns
Those were my scorns
Those were my tears that fell down
And just as You said it would be
You did it all for me
After You counted the cost
You took my shame, my blame
On my cross

How deep is Your grace
That you could see my need
And chose to take my place
And then for me, these words I'd hear You say

Father no
Forgive them for they know not what they do
I will go
Because I love them so

Tuesday, May 16, 2006

I've Got Sunshine

I can't say how much I loved the sun being out today! Yes, I will admit that it did get warm (to me anyways) but it was gorgeous, nonetheless. I don't know exactly why I'm updating, since I don't have a lot to say. I'm keeping busy this week though! All week I'm going in to practice with the Kindergarten class for their program next Monday. Boy, to be 5 again...might be nice! These kids aren't getting what they're supposed to do. Most are...and today went better than yesterday...but these kids are in need of a lot of practice and help! Only 3 more practice times until they perform for people. I have faith though...they can do it!!!

Senior graduation is on Friday. Wow...I can't believe that it's happening already! It's just crazy! Time flies so fast. Seriously it does. But, this means that my summer job is coming closer and that makes me even more excited. I'm hoping that come the end of the summer, I'll still have my sanity...what little there is! I just love kids though. I've already bought some nice books to read them. I always go straight for the kids’ section at Barnes and Noble and other book places I go. They're so fun and cute! But, I'll stop talking about kids' books though.:)

I'm racking my brain to think of something exciting to talk about...but nothing is coming. I'm still boring as ever! I don't even have any fun pictures to post either! Now that's disappointing! But, I guess that's the way things go. I do need to get going and practice my songs for the K5 program. So...I guess that's it. Thanks to all who have made it this far in reading this mostly pointless blog. Have a good one!

Wednesday, May 10, 2006

Pictures...pictures...and more pictures!!:)

Ok...to start with, this is my "big brother" Jeremiah Barba. He's dating my best friend Lindsay Weinholdt. I miss him SOO much. He lives in North Carolina.
This is Kendra...aka Kenna Wickham. She's dating Dan McKisic now. How cute!!:)
This is one of my good friends Dan McKisic. I told him once that when he made a certain face, he looked like a monkey. He tried to do it again, but it didn't turn out too well. Kind of...but not really.
This is Matt Hornbeck...Carla Mallory's boyfriend. For some reason whenever I had my camera at any group function, it would get "stolen" by someone and he would be on there many times.
This is one of my best friends Amy Webb (AmyWe). I love her and miss her TONS!!!
This is a picture of Beth Rebert. She wasn't Rebert at this time...but she is now. She's so sweet!!
Last, but certainly not least...this is my wonderful sister and best friend Sherry. I love her SO much!! She's the best!!!!

Wow...what a lot of pictures!! But, I hope you enjoyed them...maybe I'll add more sometime soon. Later loves!

The Fear of the Lord

Tonight my sister, Paula, and I went to Victory Baptist Church. It's a small church, but the message was really good. He, Pastor King, preached on the fear of the Lord. I realized tonight just how much I don't fear the Lord. It was very rebuking and convicting. But, very much needed. I think a lot of what happens in this world is because we don't have a right fear of God and who He is. I'm hoping to really start to KNOW God and truly fear Him.

God cannot give us a happiness and peace apart from Himself, because it is not there. There is no such thing. -C.S. Lewis

I found this quote and really liked it. It's so true!

So, tomorrow is a baby shower for Beth Rebert. I still can't believe she is pregnant...and moving! How sad is that?? I won't get to see this cute little girl when she's born! I only hope to have pictures of her. When I get some, I'll post them here so you can see her. Her name is going to be Kylie Sue, Kloe Noelle, or Lilly Grace. I'm not sure which one I like best. Probably Lilly...or Kloe. I don't know. It's a tough choice. Anyway...I think the shower will be tons of fun! I love Beth and am so sad that she's moving to Pennsylvania...but I do know that it's God's will for her and Paul...but it's still sad to see them go.

You know...I sit and think about what I want to write well before I write it. Then I sit down to write and I forget half of what I wanted to say! Oy...how wrong is that? Oh well. Maybe I can think of something else to say!:)

Oh yeah...I wanted to put up some pictures. I'll do that on another blog. I want to put up several!:) Enjoy!

Tuesday, May 09, 2006

Day 2


Well, I was able to search this thing and add some different things. Yay! I'm so excited. I love these things. So far, I've been able to find some people that I haven't talked to in a while. It's been great!

So here I am at home, listening to the not-so-peaceful sounds outside. There's a tree outside my window that is dead and has been leaning for a while now. My dad called these people..."Doug's Tree Service" to come and cut the tree down so it won't fall on the house. Well, this was at least 2 weeks ago. The guys came out and chopped some of the branches off and the other tree that this dead one was leaning on, and then had to stop because they realized they needed a bucket truck to finish the job. Well, they didn't come back and didn't come back and finally my dad called again. This "Doug" guy told my dad several times, "Yeah...I'll be back tomorrow!" And as you might can guess...his "tomorrow's" came and went. So, finally, today they're back...and without a bucket truck. Some people are really not too bright!

On Friday, I'm babysitting for 4 boys...OY!! What have I gotten myself into! I honestly don't think they'll be TOO much trouble...but I guess we'll just have to wait and see about that one. Other than that...this is a boring week! I can only hope that something exciting happens.

My summer job starts in 20 days. I am so excited I can't wait! Let's just say...11 hours a day, 5 days a week with 3-7 year olds...how much better can it get!?!!! Remind me of that come August. I MAY get sick of them...but I don't think so. I love the kids I'll have, and I couldn't be more excited.

Well, it's already 4 o'clock and I have gotten so little accomplished today. So, I better get off of this thing and do some other more profitable things. Later!

Monday, May 08, 2006


Yay....I spiced it up some!:) I'm not really good at this yet, so bare with me as I fumble around here to make this look nice. I decided to put a picture on here of me and my best friend, Lindsay Weinholdt. She was at BJ with me, but God has chosen to take her back to Colorado for now. I miss her so much! This was taken before an Artist Series when she did my hair. It looked AMAZING! She's the best...seriously!:) Anyway, I'll be spicing this up and putting up more pics later, I'm sure! I guess I should be done for tonight, huh? Well, I'll update later. Goodnight!
Wow...this is my first post on this "Blogger" thing. How cool and fun and exciting. Wow. What to write about!? I honestly have no clue...so I think I'll go and see how I can spice this thing up. Hope it works!!!