I know I haven't updated in a while, and I do apologize for that. I am busier now than I ever remember being, so blogging has taken a back seat. Its actually kinda sad for me because I have a lot of thoughts spinning around in my head that I would love to blog about. So, hopefully in the coming days I will carve out some more time. I have realized that this semester will challenge my time management skills immensely. I am up for the challenge though! I am really committed to doing this with God, making my schedule based on HIS plans for me and not letting the important things take a back seat (which is what usually happens). We're almost in February and so far so good!
Unfortunately, this is a very busy time for both AIM and Cornerstone. Generally the two alternate busy times, which is why I rarely get overwhelmed with both jobs, but that's not the case right now. I work non-stop from 9-3 for AIM, and then immediately get started on Cornerstone stuff, usually finishing that up around 9 or 10 at night. The 10 hour days are definitely overwhelming, but God is being SO good to me. I am taking time to cook and eat healthy, making sure I actually get sleep at night, taking time to talk with Him daily and I am exercising regularly...all of which are keeping me in a really good state of mind despite my busyness. And, I'm holding on to my Saturdays (my ONLY day off) like my life depends on it (which it kinda does). I am struggling with a little bit of guilt as I turn down things so I can keep my time off, but I know that this is what God wants me to do.
Okay, so that's my general update. Here's some more fun facts for you:
* I spent last weekend in Birmingham, Alabama with my friends Jess and James Hawbaker. We haven't seen each other in over 3 years, but you would never know it from last weekend. We had SO MUCH FUN! We went hiking, played Wii (I LOVE the surgery game!), laughed A LOT, ate yummy (healthy) food, and best of all; we encouraged each other in the Lord. They are such a HUGE encouragement to me! They are actually moving to Denver this summer so Jess can attend seminary and I am planning on spending one of my vacation weeks with them sometime after they get settled. That's how great they are!
* I am traveling a lot more right now, partly because of AIM and partly because of some great support raising opportunities. In the coming weeks I will:
* Spend Valentine's weekend in South Boston, VA where I will speak at a church and a
women's group. I will also get to hang out with my brother the whole weekend!
* I am leading an AIM Spring Break trip in Philly in March. They will work with Cornerstone for the week, so it should be fun. The team is actually a college football team, so it should be interesting!
* AIM is sending me to Chicago in April to teach a one day seminar for youth pastors.
The seminar is all day Friday. After it's over I am going to drive to Urbana, IL (about 2 hours away) and spend the rest of the weekend hanging out with Brooke!
* Starting next Tuesday, Bonita and I will begin training for the Broad Street Run. I have to admit that I am EXTREMELY nervous about this and totally unsure if I can actually do it. But, I am committed to trying!
* Several weeks ago, just after Christmas, Beth (Jen's dog) bit the mailman. Its a crazy story, but Beth saw the mailman as a threat and was not restrained by anyone at the door (neither me nor Jen were home at the time, a friend was staying at the house with us). The bite was not severe and barely broke the skin. Unfortunately, the mailman is now suing for the "muscle spasms" he now suffers, and even though the dog belongs to Jen, the lawsuit falls on me because I own the house. My home owner's insurance should take care of it, but I'm researching all of it and asking a lot of people a lot of questions before I just hand things over. Please keep that situation in your prayers!
* A really good friend of mine just found out his mom might have ovarian cancer. Its just the 2 of them in their family, so he has a lot of decisions to make (he lives about 4 hours away from her), and neither have a lot of support from other people. I am hoping to get the chance to spend some time with him and possibly help him and his mom out sometime soon. They find out for sure on Friday, so right now I'm just praying that all the test results come back normal! He isn't a believer, but we've been able to have some good conversations about things since I'm dealing with my dad's cancer while he is trying to handle his mom's. I feel like I'm being surrounded by cancer right now, and that is not fun!!
Okay, that's all I can think of right now. Its WAY past my bed time, so nighty night!
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Staff Retreating
Sunday-Tuesday of this week was our annual Cornerstone Winter Staff Retreat and it was so much fun!! We had a really awesome time hanging out as one big family, laughing at each other and laughing even harder with the kids. Man am I thankful all the staff have such adorable kids!!
We did have a few meetings, but most of that time was spent being open and honest with one another about what's been going on in each of our lives. A lot of our staff have some really heavy burdens weighing on them and it was really nice to be able to help carry those burdens for one another. The unity we are experiencing right now is nothing short of a miracle and incredible blessing!!
As much fun as the retreat was, it was still a little hard for me. Our August retreat comes at the end of the summer when I am ready for a break. This one, however, comes a week before we start everything up again, so I was constantly thinking about all the things I need to finish before next week. I know I should have enjoyed the hours of free time, but I found myself frustrated that I lost 2 days of work. I also got out of my normal exercise routine (although I did manage to find ways to exercise), so that made me kinda frustrated too.
So, today has been a great day so far! I was able to get up and go to spinning (which is still my absolute favorite way to start the day!! I missed it on Monday!) and have been working basically nonstop since then...and I have gotten a lot accomplished!! Yay!!
I think part pf my stress at the retreat came from the fact that I am going out of town again tomorrow night. I will be flying to Alabama to spend the weekend with 2 of my friends that I haven't seen in at least 3 years. They were with me my first year in Philly and I was a bridesmaid in their wedding 5 years ago, so I can't wait to see them!! But, that means I only really have 2 work days this week, and WAY too much to do. Kids Club starts next Tuesday!!
I guess I should get back to work then, huh? Off I go! I do love to be productive!
We did have a few meetings, but most of that time was spent being open and honest with one another about what's been going on in each of our lives. A lot of our staff have some really heavy burdens weighing on them and it was really nice to be able to help carry those burdens for one another. The unity we are experiencing right now is nothing short of a miracle and incredible blessing!!
As much fun as the retreat was, it was still a little hard for me. Our August retreat comes at the end of the summer when I am ready for a break. This one, however, comes a week before we start everything up again, so I was constantly thinking about all the things I need to finish before next week. I know I should have enjoyed the hours of free time, but I found myself frustrated that I lost 2 days of work. I also got out of my normal exercise routine (although I did manage to find ways to exercise), so that made me kinda frustrated too.
So, today has been a great day so far! I was able to get up and go to spinning (which is still my absolute favorite way to start the day!! I missed it on Monday!) and have been working basically nonstop since then...and I have gotten a lot accomplished!! Yay!!
I think part pf my stress at the retreat came from the fact that I am going out of town again tomorrow night. I will be flying to Alabama to spend the weekend with 2 of my friends that I haven't seen in at least 3 years. They were with me my first year in Philly and I was a bridesmaid in their wedding 5 years ago, so I can't wait to see them!! But, that means I only really have 2 work days this week, and WAY too much to do. Kids Club starts next Tuesday!!
I guess I should get back to work then, huh? Off I go! I do love to be productive!
Friday, January 16, 2009
One Step at a Time
I have been taking a spinning (stationary bike) class 3 days a week and I LOVE it. It kicks my butt every time and I always leave the class dripping in sweat, but its a lot of fun.
I have the same instructor for my Monday and Wednesday class and she is by far my favorite. She is motivating and encouraging and just makes the class fun. At the end of every class we finish with some intense sprints. After 40 minutes of up and down hills, and several sprints at different resistance levels...the end of the class turns out to be a really hard push.
On Wednesday while we were pushing through the last of the sprints, the instructor told us to put our heads down and focus on out feet. "Its not about the finish line, its about putting one foot down, and then the next".
So, that's what I did. I stopped looking at the clock, counting down the minutes until the sprints were over. I stopped looking at myself in the mirror and being shocked by how much sweat was pouring off of me. I just looked down, and peddled.
And you know what? I pushed through farther and faster than I ever had before. It was AWESOME!! I left the class exhausted, and invigorated.
So often in my life I just want to see the finish line. I think I can push through the hard times as long as I have some idea of when it will end. I think that seeing the light at the end of the tunnel will motivate me to keep walking toward the light.
But, what I discovered on Wednesday is that I can go even faster and farther if I just go one step at a time. Instead of looking at the light far in the distance, I want to focus on the light right at my feet (Psalm 119:105)...and go wherever it takes me, no matter how long that takes. (Isaiah 42:16)
I have the same instructor for my Monday and Wednesday class and she is by far my favorite. She is motivating and encouraging and just makes the class fun. At the end of every class we finish with some intense sprints. After 40 minutes of up and down hills, and several sprints at different resistance levels...the end of the class turns out to be a really hard push.
On Wednesday while we were pushing through the last of the sprints, the instructor told us to put our heads down and focus on out feet. "Its not about the finish line, its about putting one foot down, and then the next".
So, that's what I did. I stopped looking at the clock, counting down the minutes until the sprints were over. I stopped looking at myself in the mirror and being shocked by how much sweat was pouring off of me. I just looked down, and peddled.
And you know what? I pushed through farther and faster than I ever had before. It was AWESOME!! I left the class exhausted, and invigorated.
So often in my life I just want to see the finish line. I think I can push through the hard times as long as I have some idea of when it will end. I think that seeing the light at the end of the tunnel will motivate me to keep walking toward the light.
But, what I discovered on Wednesday is that I can go even faster and farther if I just go one step at a time. Instead of looking at the light far in the distance, I want to focus on the light right at my feet (Psalm 119:105)...and go wherever it takes me, no matter how long that takes. (Isaiah 42:16)
Monday, January 12, 2009
Beautiful One
Yesterday at church we were singing the song "Beautiful One" by Chris Tomlin.
You opened my eyes to Your wonders anew
You captured my heart with this love
‘Cause nothing on earth is as beautiful as You
Beautiful One I love
Beautiful One I adore
Beautiful One my soul must sing
During that song I realize that my God was singing those words over me.
You opened my eyes to Your wonders anew
You captured my heart with this love
‘Cause nothing on earth is as beautiful as You
Beautiful One I love
Beautiful One I adore
Beautiful One my soul must sing
During that song I realize that my God was singing those words over me.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
All is well
Bonita and Linda both came to church and are spending the night with me. I took a shower this morning and my bathroom did NOT leak. The Eagles are only one game away from the Super Bowl.
Everything is as it should be. :)
Everything is as it should be. :)
Friday, January 9, 2009
Not Much Going On
I haven't really updated this week because there really hasn't been a lot going on. And I have to admit, its one of the best week's I've had in a really long time. :)
Most days consist of AIM from 9-3 and then spending my evenings doing whatever I feel like I need to; from cleaning to reading, to exercising. I am really enjoying some freedom in my schedule!! Unfortunately, its not all great news...
The biggest news of the week has been the work on my bathroom. The original plan was to simply clean out the old caulk and re-caulk everything and hope that holds for a while. However, while Frank was working on the bathroom, several tiles started to fall off the wall. It was then that he discovered where the majority of the water was leaking. So, what was supposed to be a one day job, ended up taking all week (as usual!). Thankfully, I have wonderful friends!! And, hopefully this new fix will last even longer than the original plan. Thanks Jesus!
On Tuesday Frank fixed the leak from the washing machine and started on the tile. First, he removed the tile and got all the water out, then let it dry.
On Wednesday, he got some tile from Pastor Joe and put it in.
(I love how it not only doesn't match the other tile, but they are also 2 different shades of blue! I honestly couldn't care less how it looks, as long as it works!)
Yesterday Frank came and grouted the tile.
And finally today he caulked the tile, and everything else that needed it. It looks really nice! I am really praying that this lasts for a while!!
Of course, during this whole time we haven't been able to use the shower, and we have to wait 36 hours for the caulk to dry so we can't shower in the house until Sunday morning. Its been good motivation to go to the gym though (I have been showering there...I haven't been getting sweaty and not showering, I promise!)
The leak has been annoying and I really want it gone, but that isn't the main reason that I am praying this fix will last for a while. I got my gas bill in the mail today, and let's just say it was outrageous. The problem, however, is not the price of gas. The problem is, I have HORRIBLE windows. You can actually see the curtains moving with the wind, and in my bed you can feel a breeze. I have tried putting plastic over them, but it doesn't really help. I NEED new windows.
So, I will be pricing them this weekend and working to save money for that (I only have 4, maybe 5 that need to be replaced). I certainly don't have the money for new windows AND a new bathroom and judging by my gas bill, the windows need to be a priority. I will shower at the gym for months if necessary! :)
(This is Giz hanging out right by the heating vent. You know its cold when your cat, who is covered in fat and fur, has to warm himself at the heating vent! And yes, he really is that big!)
According to the people that I talked to, while I keep the thermostat at 60 (yes, I know that is cold...I can't afford more), my heater is having to work as hard as if I kept at at 75 or 80 because of all the heat escaping through the windows.
I did say I loved my house, right? ;)
A few other random things happened this week, but nothing huge to report. We had a dog trainer come on Tuesday to help with Beth (let's just say she's a bit rough around the edges, which is not unusual at all for stray dogs. It looks like she has been abused in her past), so we have been spending some time this week training her. Its kind of a slow process, but she is a really smart dog. I also took Bonita and Linda, along with their mom, to the jail to visit their dad (whom their mom is NOT still with) this week. We had some interesting conversations before and after. I am SO not ready for them to not be little girls anymore!!
That's about it! So exciting, huh? This weekend and next week I plan to really get working on my Kids Club, Prayer Pals and Children's Church planning and actually preparing for the spring semester. I have a lot of ideas, hopefully I will at least half of them accomplished! My plan for tomorrow, however, is simply to sleep in and then FINALLY clean the basement. I have a whole day with no plans, so it really should get done. Let's hope should becomes does. :)
Most days consist of AIM from 9-3 and then spending my evenings doing whatever I feel like I need to; from cleaning to reading, to exercising. I am really enjoying some freedom in my schedule!! Unfortunately, its not all great news...
The biggest news of the week has been the work on my bathroom. The original plan was to simply clean out the old caulk and re-caulk everything and hope that holds for a while. However, while Frank was working on the bathroom, several tiles started to fall off the wall. It was then that he discovered where the majority of the water was leaking. So, what was supposed to be a one day job, ended up taking all week (as usual!). Thankfully, I have wonderful friends!! And, hopefully this new fix will last even longer than the original plan. Thanks Jesus!
On Tuesday Frank fixed the leak from the washing machine and started on the tile. First, he removed the tile and got all the water out, then let it dry.
On Wednesday, he got some tile from Pastor Joe and put it in.
(I love how it not only doesn't match the other tile, but they are also 2 different shades of blue! I honestly couldn't care less how it looks, as long as it works!)Yesterday Frank came and grouted the tile.
And finally today he caulked the tile, and everything else that needed it. It looks really nice! I am really praying that this lasts for a while!!
Of course, during this whole time we haven't been able to use the shower, and we have to wait 36 hours for the caulk to dry so we can't shower in the house until Sunday morning. Its been good motivation to go to the gym though (I have been showering there...I haven't been getting sweaty and not showering, I promise!)The leak has been annoying and I really want it gone, but that isn't the main reason that I am praying this fix will last for a while. I got my gas bill in the mail today, and let's just say it was outrageous. The problem, however, is not the price of gas. The problem is, I have HORRIBLE windows. You can actually see the curtains moving with the wind, and in my bed you can feel a breeze. I have tried putting plastic over them, but it doesn't really help. I NEED new windows.
So, I will be pricing them this weekend and working to save money for that (I only have 4, maybe 5 that need to be replaced). I certainly don't have the money for new windows AND a new bathroom and judging by my gas bill, the windows need to be a priority. I will shower at the gym for months if necessary! :)
(This is Giz hanging out right by the heating vent. You know its cold when your cat, who is covered in fat and fur, has to warm himself at the heating vent! And yes, he really is that big!)According to the people that I talked to, while I keep the thermostat at 60 (yes, I know that is cold...I can't afford more), my heater is having to work as hard as if I kept at at 75 or 80 because of all the heat escaping through the windows.
I did say I loved my house, right? ;)
A few other random things happened this week, but nothing huge to report. We had a dog trainer come on Tuesday to help with Beth (let's just say she's a bit rough around the edges, which is not unusual at all for stray dogs. It looks like she has been abused in her past), so we have been spending some time this week training her. Its kind of a slow process, but she is a really smart dog. I also took Bonita and Linda, along with their mom, to the jail to visit their dad (whom their mom is NOT still with) this week. We had some interesting conversations before and after. I am SO not ready for them to not be little girls anymore!!
That's about it! So exciting, huh? This weekend and next week I plan to really get working on my Kids Club, Prayer Pals and Children's Church planning and actually preparing for the spring semester. I have a lot of ideas, hopefully I will at least half of them accomplished! My plan for tomorrow, however, is simply to sleep in and then FINALLY clean the basement. I have a whole day with no plans, so it really should get done. Let's hope should becomes does. :)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)