0286- How could I have forgotten to mention how INCREDIBLY thankful I am for the snow days we had!!?! It was so fun to build snowmen, a fort, and have countless snow ball fights at the BSM.

0287- I got to chat it up with Miss Amy Hastings. I have realized recently how much I miss her being around.

0288- I got into the cleaning mode tonight...which is definitely a good thing. I cleaned the bathroom and kitchen and tidied up in general.

0289- I got SO into cleaning that I decided to clean out my drawers in my bedroom (the ones filled with lots of junk). I ended up checking EVERY marker, pen, and highlighter. Threw out a bunch. That's lame and brings out my true nerdiness- but I'm okay with that.

0290- I go to Zumba in Sulphur Springs now. I have a few friends from church that also go. They probably don't know it,but they kinda keep me accountable. I feel like if I don't go, I let them down. Plus it's just fun.

0291- Speaking of Zumba, we do one dance as our "cool down." In reality, we look like speed skaters in slow motion. We end it by bringing our hands together (like praying) and bowing. No matter where we are in the gym, Lauren and I turn to each other and say "Namas Dei" (sp?) Can't help but giggle.

0292- My WOM group - We meet once a month to talk about missions and hear whats going on in the world. It is so nice to get with other women with a heart for missions and pray for the nations.

0293- At our WOM this week, the Webbs spoke. They are a couple from our church that is serving East Asia. It was so encouraging to hear them talk about what the Lord is doing over there. Plus, we pray for them by name each month. It was so good to actually sit down and talk with the people we are always praying for.

0294- I saw this shirt on a blog I frequent. Made me sad.... then made me realize it's true.



















0295- BEACH REACH IS SOON!! I am starting to put together training material and get final logistics down. I can't believe its already here!

0296 - My dad came to our Free Lunch on Monday. He was in the area, so he dropped by. It was refreshing to see him. Plus he kinda got to see what I do.

0297 I found this video... AND LOVED IT!



0298 - This may sound silly...but I am REALLY thankful that with Firefox, when you misspell a word, there is an annoying squiggly red line. Now I don't look stupid as often as I used to.

0299- I am also thankful that when you are typing a post up, it automatically saves. I just hit the backspace, and it took me back to the page I visited before this. Luckily though, it saved what I had already typed...otherwise, I'd be ticked

I cannot tell a lie... I thought about giving up the thankfulness posts... BUT I'M BACK!!!

0270- I mentioned in my last post that I love when SNL folks crack themselves up. Here is a video I have watched over and over and still laugh each time.



0271 - Our Leadership Team is memorizing Romans 12. AND MOST OF THEM ARE ACTUALLY DOING IT! It is so encouraging to hear them say it each week.

0272- Since getting a new car, I don't get to go Goodwill anymore. BUT.. I STILL HAVE MY LITTLE BOOKSTORE ON AMAZON!!! I am thankful for the little bit of money that comes in from that!

0273- My church, FBC SS, brought the lunch yesterday for Free Lunch. And ALL of them spread out amongst the tables and talked to students. So encouraging!

0274- I may not be Catholic...and I may not practice Ash Wednesday...but this video is pretty funny.


0275- This past weekend was Discovery Weekend. I got the pleasure of interviewing eight students for summer missions. It was so exciting to hear what God is doing in each of their lives and I look forward to seeing how he will use them this summer

0276- I may have mentioned that our church is doing One Month to Live. The principle that we talked about this week was Love Completely. That, coupled with memorizing Romans 12, (particularly verse 9 that says Love must be sincere), has made me realize that when it comes to relationships, I don't do very well. Basically, I suck at love. But I am glad that I serve the God who IS love.

0277- This Sunday, after evening church, some of us girls got together for a Singles Valentines dinner. It was really nice. We went to Mochis, as usual. And I haven't laughed that much in a long time

0278- I read on Vanessa's facebook that she is done with treatments on the 25th! PRAISE THE LORD!

0279- Plans for Austria this summer are already under way. I am glad to get started on it!

0280- Last night, I was cleaning out some tubs in my closet that I haven't gone through since leaving Nac. I found some really sweet cards and letters from friends. Some were from people that I don't talk to anymore. They spoke of how much our friendship meant to them and how they can't imagine life without our friendship. It was a little bittersweet, to say the least.

0281 - I am hoping to go home this weekend...and I am pretty stinking excited.

0282 -Bubba went to Joel's church this weekend and loved it. I hope he keeps going there

0283- I got to watch One Tree Hill on REAL TV LAST NIGHT!! NOT A DVD OR THE INTERNET! It was pretty weird, having to watch commercials

0284- I am reading a book, Emotional Purity, that I recommend for all girls. I have learned so much from this book.

0285- TODAY IS BUBBA'S BIRTHDAY!!! HE IS TWENTY TWO TODAY!!!!

0261 - It has been a pretty crappy week for the Stricklin family. But God is still good, for which I am thankful

0262 - My car, good ol Gina, passed away today. We mourned for awhile, then went out to get a new car. I AM THANKFUL THAT I FOUND A GOOD DEAL!!!!

0263 - My dad is quite the deal maker. I don't know how I would have done it today without him!

0264 - I had a dr appt on Friday. Another low point of the week. But luckily, I have a Dr that is very familiar with the $4 prescription plan at Walmart!

0265 - It has been one heck of a wet winter. But there have been a couple of beautiful days amidst the crappy ones. And I LOVE those days.

0266- While Gina was in the shop last week, it wasn't even an option to go to Zumba on Tuesday, or church on Wednesday. BUT... I DID get to spend a couple of nights just to myself... did some crafting..some painting...some reading... loved it

0267- I love the parts on SNL when they crack themselves up...

0268 - Over 30 churches in our area are getting together to do One Month to Live. We had the kick off rally last Sunday. What an incredible time of worship to praise the Lord with people from different races, different denominations, different languages...but one God.

0269- I am thankful for my parents supporting me in EVERYTHING. Today, I freaked out when I was told that Gina would cost an additional $1000 to fix. My parents dropped everything they were going to do today, and took me to dealerships, then sat with me for a couple of hours as I waited, signed, and BOUGHT A CAR!

0251 - I am a fourth of the way done! HALLELUJAH!

0252 - Today is a perfect Saturday. I got to sleep in (first time in WEEKS!) I am now sitting on my couch, in my Snuggie, watching Drake and Josh. Later, I will be having a Girls Night Out, including a trip to Half Price Books and a Dave Barnes and Matt Wertz concert!

0253 - I found this site... and it can easily provide hours of wasted time. http://lab.andre-michelle.com/tonematrix

0254- Last weekend, we had a D Now at my church. I am thankful for a church that invests in the next generation.

0255- Speaking of D Now, I got to lead the College group. I was thankful that the church included college in the D Now

0256- I got to have lunch with Brynette again. It was another hour and a half of sweet time talking about the Lord.

0257- I am starting to meet with Megan, a junior in high school from my church. I am excited about hanging out with her each week.

0258- There was a tornado in Sulphur Springs a little over a week ago. I was at church, with 20 five year olds. We were safe and kept the kids calm. For that, I am VERY thankful

0259- I am SO thankful that God heals bitterness.

0260- I am thankful that Japan gets to enjoy the greatness of Glee... even if it is in a weird way. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RWTslWUlV_E&feature=player_embedded

0236 - Danny has had some GOOD questions the last few days.. AND CLASSES HAVE NOT EVEN STARTED YET! I am so excited about his questions, because they challenge me.

0237- I am thankful for Josh Hamilton and his testimony. Why? Because I turned my brother on to God being real. And Bubba read his book... WHAT?? Yes..that's right..BUBBA READ A WHOLE BOOK...in one night no less!

0238- The little oil change sticker in the upper left hand corner of the windshield... I appreciate the reminder it gives

0239-On Sunday, Brynette sang the Revelation Song. I could worship all day with her singing that song

0240- Pastor Mark's love for the Word and his ability to expound on it is incredible. I love listening to him

0241-I had a good meeting with Joe on Sunday. We are on the same page on a lot of things, which I am praying will be the foresight of a good semester

0242- I GOT TO SEE ROY ON SUNDAY NIGHT!!! I just love that man

0243- Our leadership meetings are going to be on Sunday afternoons now. I could not be more excited about NOT staying up at the BSM til 10 30 on Monday nights!

0244- Our church has D now this weekend and I will be leading the college group. I am excited about it and thankful that they are letting me do that

0245- I put my One Month to Live sign out in my "yard" today - and within one hour, my neighbor knocked on my door asking me about it. It was so exciting to share with her about it!

0246- We had a really good leadership team meeting today... I am looking forward to a great semester!

0247- I finally got to talk to MB last night. It was much needed and quite lovely

0248- Speaking of MB, HER BROTHER GOT ENGAGED! I am so excited for them!

0249- I found out that one of my students, Joanna, goes to church and knows Ben and Katie, the couple I mentioned that is serving in Haiti. She said I can come to church with her this summer and meet them!!!

0250- And lastly, I am thankful that Jesus wants us to be a sunbeam

0226- I am thankful for Ben and Katie, who are serving in Haiti. I don't know them, but I read about them in the Dallas Morning News. They are a newlywed couple who went over at the end of December to teach in a Christian school there. Now, everything has changed.

0227- When I got back, I had ANOTHER LETTER FROM MINIFU!!!

0228- I went home this weekend and my mom and and I worked HARD to paint the kitchen cabinets. It looks so good! But I'm glad we are done!

0229- I was in a crappy mood today. I called Liz on my drive back to Commerce, but she didnt answer, which I am thankful for. I wouldnt have wanted to whine to her

0230 - Because Liz didn't answer, it gave me and hour to just sit and communicate with the Lord. It was good...much needed...and totally worth it

0231- By the time I got to Greenville, the sky was looking pretty dark up ahead. BUT TO MY LEFT WAS A RAINBOW!! I felt like it was God reminding me of His promises... which was JUST WHAT I NEEDED!!

0232- Tonight, I went to a movie, cleaned the apt a bit, AND watched SNL... now THAT's a good Saturday night!

0233- I recently realized that I have an abundance of clothes. And I am thankful for that... (but I will be cleaning out my closet this week!)

0234- I am thankful for scented candles. As I was cleaning tonight, I lit some. It just made everything seem so much nicer!

0235- And finally, I am thankful for technology

Thanks Technology from John on Vimeo.

0202 - After being sick, I AM FINALLY FEELING BETTER!! PTL for that!

0203 - Melissa, my friend from church, who is a dentist, called me in a Z-pack on Sunday. Definitely a God senad!

0204- Said Z pack - who doesn't love over priced antibiotics?

0205 - Mucinex - My best friend for the past week

0206 - A GREAT week in Mexico - check the facebook pics

0207- A drive to and from Mexico without too much excitement - It was very easy drive. And I'll admit, I was pretty nervous about driving a van to Mexico and back

0208- The bathtub- Any time after spending awhile away from home, I always love coming back and taking a long bath...

0209- The Fain family - Over the past year, they have really taken me in as one of their own. Love them

0210 - Jared and Kristen Schweers - They are going with their Bible study group to Mozambique this summer. I got to go to a fundraiser for them this past week. It made me happy to see them and excited for them serving this summer

0211- Speaking of this summer, I AM GOING BACK TO AUSTRIA!! That's right! I have been asked to lead the trip again. I'm pretty excited!

0212- While we were in Mexico, a little of the Spanish that I knew came back. It was a definite blessing while hanging out with the kids.

0213- However, even with the little Spanish I know, I botched it A LOT. But luckily, the kids could have cared less as I butchered their language.

0214- My church. I know I have said it before, but after being gone for a couple of weeks, I was so glad to worship with them again last Sunday.

0215- My Reject van - It seems I am always driving the "reject" van ... It's hilarious.. and I love it

0216 - Shella - Our new secretary at the BSM. I am excited to have her around

0217 - Though I am thankful for the sleeping bag while in Mexico, I am VERY thankful to be NOT sleeping in a sleeping bag anymore

0218- I have spent the last couple of days at home, helping my mom paint the house. It has been tough work (she's quite the slave driver) but good to just hang out at home

0219- Been emailing back and forth with Katy Reed a lot lately.... It's definitely not as good as hanging out in person, but it will do....til I see her at Beach Reach!

0220- My dad took me and my mom to Chick Fila for lunch yesterday!!! HOORAY

0221- Then tonight, after painting all day, I convinced my parents to take us to Cicis!

0222- I may have talked to another student about doing Go Now this summer!! YAY!!

0223- Clayton King - I first heard him a few years ago at a summer camp. On the way to and from Mexico, we listened to some of his podcasts... that guy can PREACH!

0224- Donald Miller's response to Pat Robertson - AMAZING

0225- The outpouring of love and support from the Christian community for Haiti. I am so broken hearted for that country, but amazed at how people are stepping up.

I've been in Mexico for the last week, hence no posts. I will post more later, but I just HAD to post this one now..

0201- I am thankful for this video that was posted on another blog I read. It made me think of Katy Reed, Erinne, and Kayla Herring. Should I ever go on a mission trip with them again and there is a nightly talent show, I could see us doing something like this...

0180 - Bubba let's me sleep in his bed when he is not there... For some reason, my day bed was the best ever when I was at SFA. But now, I can't stand it!

0181 - Air fresheners - though I love sleeping in his room, his room STINKS. Thank goodness my mom is OBSESSED with air fresheners and there are TWO in his room!

0182- Midnight breakfast with Bryant - even though it was the worst funny face Ihop has ever served, it was still good to catch up with Bryant

0183- Speaking of the funny face, I am thankful that Ihop still lets me order off the kids menu, even though I am TWICE the age of the "12 year old cap"

0184- Two times this past week, I got really bored of sitting at home. So I went up to my mom's work and took her coffee. I'm glad that I can just show up and sit and hang out for an hour...

0185- QT Coffee- I would totally drink a Caramal Macchiatto from QT before I had ANY starbucks drinks

0186- I FINISHED MY SKIRT OF TIES!!!! Bryant made fun of it, BUT I LOVE IT!

0187- Though I didn't get to as often as I would have liked, I got to sleep in quite a few days over this break. I needed it, and I LOVED it

0188- I found out a couple of days ago that we have RAISED ENOUGH MONEY TO PAY ME THROUGH MAY!! YAY!!

0189- A new year brings new beginnings...

0190- A clothes washer- the one at my parents house has been out for a few days. It is very true that you don't know what you got til its gone!

0191- Avon hand lotion- it's pretty much amazing...and my mom has it all over the house

0192- Bubba's friends- I hung out with Bubba and his friends a couple of times over the break. It was nice that they welcome me in their group as if I was always a part

0195- I FINALLY MET LISA...Bubba's friend. He always talks about her. I was glad to finally meet her

0196- I got my student loans deferred for another year. Thank goodness for that!

0197- My new signature!! (at the bottom of the post) It was FREE!!'

0198- I got to talk to Lindsay again this week, which was an added bonus!

0199- I am glad to be back in my own apt. I love being at my parents, but I was tired of living out of a bag.

0200- I AM A FIFTH OF THE WAY TO 1000!!!!

MB (who I listed earlier in the list) went to Nac this week for a few weeks. She and I have been talking about good times at SFA lately... so in lieu of all of that, let's take some time to be thankful for SFA memories

A lot of these people, sadly, I do not keep in touch with anymore. Even still, they made an impact on my life, which I am thankful for.

0160- Sarah Pierson- one of the first people I met at SFA. She took me in immediately and was one of my best friends during my time at SFA.

0161- Allie Brill - what a hoot! Her sweet spirit never went unnoticed. And her heart for others is inspiring.

0162- Kodee (Zachariah) Roraback - I was often envious of her care free attitude! She was always so kind.

0163 - Sam Hughes - He had a heart as big as the planet. I loved nothing more than to sit down with him and talk for hours.

0164 - Zach Wood - Talk about a character. His witty remarks could make me smile on the worst days.

0165- Landon Sandy - I haven't talked to that kid in a couple of years probably. But I feel like I owe a lot to him. He and I were Care Group partners my sophmore year. He burst my little Christian bubble REAL quick, which I am very thankful for.

0166- Sean Massengale - Another one I haven't talked to in a couple of years - but I had plenty of good times with him

0167 - Caleb Canter - Who wouldn't want to marry that guy...seriously

0168- Lauren Radtke - One of my dearest friends the last couple of years. Her quiet attitude did not go unnoticed. She may be a few years younger than me, but she spoke plenty of wisdom into my life. I miss her

0169 - Clay Stephens- Man I miss that guy. He is another one that could cheer anyone up on the crappiest of days.

0170- Lerin - I really got to know her my last year, and I regret not taking the opportunity sooner.

0171- Erinne - WHO DOESN'T LOVE THAT GIRL! Good times are always had with her

0172- Kyle Worsham - He's another one that I could sit and talk with for hours...and did.

0173- Terell - What a beautiful and fun lady!

0174- Covin - I have no words

0175 - Alexis - I see her as being so wise! I wish we could have been better friends

0176- Rob Ramsey - The nights spent at the 431 are countless, as are the good times had with this guy

0177 - Shawn Berry - I never knew him THAT well, but I remember a few times, he would call out of the blue, just to see how I was doing. What a nice guy

0178- Keith Dailey- Though we haven't spoken since probably my junior year, I can't talk about SFA without mentioning him. My freshmen and sophomore year were filled with many good times with this guy.

0179- Bryant Davis- We were off-and-on friends... by both of our admissions. But he is always so much fun to hang out with. I loved my senior year when he would come over, we would watch a movie, then take Belle on a walk.


That's it for now... maybe more later..

You've missed me...haven't you? Christmas has kept me busy. But lo and behold, I return.

0146 - Jesus - total understatement...but how amazing that God came down to OUR level so WE could be saved

0147- Dinner with Joel and Erica - Liz and I went over to their house last week. It was such a sweet time of catching up. I love them...and their kids

0148- MY SEWING MACHINE! - that's right.... I got a sewing machine for Christmas...and I'm officially obsessed now

0149 - a WHOLE WEEK with Liz- Last week was amazing.. getting to hang out with her everyday!

0150 - My dad's (fairly) new job as a bus driver - He is a different person now.... in a good way

0151 - Heidi taking time to show me how to use my sewing machine!

0152 - Sweet times hanging out with my mom

0153 - Old school friends get-togethers- We make a point each Christmas to all get together. For some of us, it is the one time a year we see each other, but it's always great.

0154- HANNAH AND ELISHA GOT ENGAGED!!!

0155- I talked to Lindsay on Christmas Eve- I always love talking with her....on the other side of the world

0156- FREE SEWING PATTERNS ONLINE!! YAY!!!

0157 - I got to talk to Zach Wood today- Gosh I love that kid. Plus, now I can say that I know someone that works for the Discovery Channel!

0158- White chocolate mochas from Starbucks- it's a rare luxury, but truly loved

0159- A night out with Maribeth and Liz Rodriguez - much needed and fun

It's been a week... and don't deny it...you have missed me. So here we go...

0121 - Firefox's tabs. It's a genius idea and I love it.

0122- Music - It has such a powerful way of speaking to the depths of my soul.

0123- Kevin Wooley - He gave me the (last minute) opportunity to sing a solo at church this morning! I was so nervous that I thought I was going to pee my pants and pass out at the same time, but it was good.

0124 - My FAMILY - I know I have mentioned them before, but they drove to sulphur springs in the wee hours this morning to hear me sing and that meant a lot

0125- The Lottie Moon Post Office at good ol SGBC - it raises money for missions and it is just so fun!

0126- MY PARENTS FINALLY PUT A TV IN MY ROOM BACK HOME!!!

0127- One last week with Amy- we went to Cicis, braums, watched a movie and just hung out for one last week

0128 - Words with Friends- I'm obsessed

0129 - Certain Dri - what can I say? I sweat... but this has worked WONDERS!

0130 - Bruce Welch - He answers many of my questions...both silly and serious

0131- Chris Sammons - Can't talk about answers to questions without mentioning Sammons. I can't even begin to add up the hours spent at the BSM talking with him about whatever was on my mind.

0132- Laughter- It has to be the medicine of the soul

0133 - Hats- such an easy way to get on with my day when I don't feel like taming my hair

0134- My Ipod tape deck in my car - with no radio, it's nice to keep the music going

0135 - Lindsay - my roommate from college - I learned so much from her and her friendship has meant so much to me.

0136- my ability to knit - it makes for cheap and relatively easy christmas gifts

0137 - Email - I check mine obsessively

0138 - Gorilla Glue - I just discovered it and I am already in love

0139 - Go Now Missions - What an awesome opportunity for college students to go on short term missions projects...and all set up by the Go Now team

0140 - Brenda Sanders- my mastermind behind Go Now... seriously, shes amazing

0141- Fabric Softener- I know I am spoiled, but I can't imagine what clothes would feel like without fabric softener

0142 - Belle- MY dog. Make no mistake, though she lives with my parents, she is MINE. I walk in the door and she FREAKS out because she is so excited to see me. I could be having the crappiest day, but she makes it all okay

0143 - Sunday night family dinners - some families from church (FBCSS) get together each Sunday night for dinner after church. This is one of my most favorite times of the week.

0144 - Larry Hughes- I love that man

0145- TWO WEEKS OFF!!!

0101 - The Dove commercials - they make me feel all warm and fuzzy inside

0102 - Slumber parties with MB - nothing is greater than sitting in your PJs chatting it up

0103 - Katy Reed - Spending a couple of days with her at the intern retreat made me realize what a cool girl she is.

0104- Katie (McGowan) Gravens - I don't know if she realizes the impact she has made on my life.

0105 - Sleep aid - I have been having trouble sleeping lately. But my sleep medicine is a God-send

0106 - The Intern Retreat- seriously... get us together and we get pretty mischievous. But I haven't laughed that hard in a LONG time.

0107 - The Notes application on my iPod - seriously... my life is on there

0108 - Team Tweeterphone - we dominated at EVERY GAME at the intern retreat..WHILE tweeting

0109 - Words with Friends - one of the latest games I downloaded on my ipod...and I am officially obsessed.

0110 - Glee Thursdays with Amy - Glee is over this season, and Amy is leaving this week... but for this semester, I always looked forward to watching Glee on Thursdays with her

0111 - Dr. Anderson - Today is his last day at FBC Sulphur Springs. His love for sharing Christ is awesome

0112 - My awesome brother, Bubba - he drives me crazy sometimes, but he does so much for me! (He did my laundry while I was at my retreat, then put my new license plates on!)

0113 - The search committee at church - For the past 18 months, they have been looking so hard for a new pastor, and Pastor Mark comes next week!

0114 - Adam and Suzie Hailes - They are living the Gospel...and are such an inspiration to me and so many others.

0115 - Cheryl - She is such an amazing example to me. And she listens to me time after time.

0116 - Brittany and Jeananne's tough questions - These two girls are always asking some pretty hard questions. But I love it. Because it challenges me.

0117 - Tupperware - 'nough said

0118 - My thick hair - I know sometimes I get frustrated with it, but I do appreciate that it's thick... I never have to worry about going bald!

0119 - Zumba - what a fun way to work out!

0120 - BSM Sleeping bags- I don't really know where they came from, but I can appreciate that there are sleeping bags that stay at the BSM...because I don't have one of my own, so I always use one of the BSM's

0081 - Joel Halpin - Joel has played a huge part in my spiritual life. He has been there to answer my random tough questions, encourage me, and just be a friend.

0082 - Jeremy McMahan - I remember vividly on a Wednesday night when we were sitting around after youth and he asked what I thought about Jesus. That was the start of my journey to Christ.

0083 - Free wifi- Seriously, if it wasn't for free wifi, I would want to cry during MANY meetings

0084 - Erica Halpin - I have watched her for many years and I have learned so much, like what a true Godly wife and mother looks like.

0085 - Deoderent - Really? Do I need to explain this one?

0086 - Jeananne's love for Scripture - The way she wants to REALLY dig in challenges me

0087 - Truett Cathy (Mr. Chik Fila) - There will no doubt be ChikFila in heaven

0088 - My Sunday school class for adopting a family - This is my second year with this class, and both years we have adopted a family to support at Christmas... I love it

0089 - The Christmas spirit - I love it... it just makes everything else better

0090 - Karmen Holland - She has been so kind to me, I cannot even begin to thank her enough

0091 - Brynette - My NEW MENTOR!! We met for the first time this week, and I am SO EXCITED to learn from her

0095- Ashleigh Inskeep - her heart for ministry is INCREDIBLE

0096 - Miss Campbell - My third grade teacher. She made me LOVE learning AND teaching

0097 - Clearance paint at Wal Mart - for a beginning crafter like myself, it is AMAZING

0098 - The Armstrongs and Litzlers - It was just brought to my attn that these two couples have expressed an interest to expand the college ministry at our church. We are meeting next week to talk about it and I am VERY excited.

0099 - Roy Smith - This man has my heart. Even if he is 83. He has such a heart for the Word and for sharing it ALL OVER THE WORLD! Seriously! He is in Siberia right now!

0100 - I AM A TENTH OF THE WAY DONE!!!

This week we have had our Leadership Team Christmas Party and our Christmas Banquet at the BSM... so I thought I'd share how I am thankful for each student on leadership team...

0071 - Katy Trela - She does a great job as President. She keeps LT focused and motivated.

0072 - Ashley Smith - her tender heart is something to be admired. She has such a servant's heart and attitude.

0073 - Bryce Burk - It's no secret that Bryce and I don't see eye to eye on much of anything... but I am very thankful that he is so adamant about his faith. And his ability to connect with international students is amazing.

0074 - Becky Burk - She does so well doing the "behind the scenes" stuff... and doesn't require recognition for it.

0075 - Heather Bowshier - Her love for the freedom in Christ is compelling. She has grown to mean so much to me.

0076 - Joanna Firth - One of the most independent people I know, but knows that she is nothing without Christ. And she connects with people in an incredible way.

0077 - Danny Sanders- I have LOVED getting to know him this semester. His passion for the Gospel is contagious. He GETS it. I don't know how else to say it.

0078 - Jared Horn - No doubt one of the most headstrong people I have ever met. His passion for internationals is very desirable. And he does a lot of the necessary work that noone really notices. Like tonight, after the banquet, he worked so hard to clean up....I appreciate that.

0079 - Lisa Mebane - that girl is a MESS! But I love her to pieces. I have LOVED getting to know her this semester. Her heart to truly KNOW Christ and make Him known leaves me speechless at times. Plus she's just hilarious

0080 - Andrew Hackler - No doubt the most servant hearted person on LT. I know I ask him to do a LOT, but he never complains. In fact, there are many times that he sees me doing something and comes and asks if he can do it. (Like tonight, I was putting trash bags back in the trash cans, and he just came and took the trash bags out of my hands and finished it for me) He is going to be one heck of a leader one day, as he is already showing great promise now.

0052 - My mom- she is one amazing lady. I hope I'm as cool of a mom as she is.

0053 - Random sleepovers with Amy - her house was full and cold last night...so she came over to stay the night...I felt like I was in 8th grade all over again

0054 - FBC Commerce- For allowing us to host a free babysitting night at their church last night!

0055 - The humor of 4 year olds - Why is it that EVERYTHING that comes out of their mouths is SO funny!

0056 - Lisa Mebane's southern twang - Seriously- I just hear her voice and it makes me all warm and fuzzy inside.

0057 - My web cam - Because of it, I was able to skype with Vanessa today and show her my apt!

0058 - Starbucks Vanilla Double Shots - They sell them at Wal-mart.... I'd be lost on early mornings without them.

0059 - The coffee bar at church - I always look forward to Sunday mornings when I can go get a cup of coffee from the coffee bar at church, doctor it up with sweet goodness, then enjoy it during Sunday school

0060 - Cruise control - The cruise control on my car has been out for the past few years and let me tell you, you don't realize how awesome it is til its gone.

0061 - Morning Scriptures that Maribeth texts me - it seems that many times, she has read my heart and sent the Scripture that I needed in that moment.

0062 - Modern day medicine - It is modern day medicine that is treating Vanessa, so I am VERY grateful to it.

0063 - Lindsay Palmer - Vanessa's sister. She was a bone marrow match and gave bone marrow to Vanessa (through a not-so-hot procedure)

0064 - SNL - Call me a sinner, but I love it

0065 - My pumice stone - Since giving up pedicures to sponsor another Compassion child, my feet look like Fred Flinstone feet. (And I'm WAY conscious about my feet anyways) - but thanks to my pumice stone, I can keep it under control

0066 - Lindsay, my roommate from college - I can't imagine what my last two years of college would have been like without her. She became a dear friend during that time. And I pray for her everyday as she serves in South Asia!

0067 - The BSM - seriously...it was the Lord working through the BSM at SFA that caused me to grow so much in my faith while in college. Now I get the privelege of seeing Him use the ministry of the BSM to push others towards Him

0068 - Hot water - Do you realize how blessed we are to have hot running water?

0069 - Spagehtti-Os - I mean really, when you are living on your own and you are broke so you can't go buy dinner, do you know how hard it is to cook a meal for just one? That's why I choose spaghetti-os

0070 - I'm thankful that I'm being challenged to come up with 1001 things I am thankful for. I have realized in the last few days how hard it is to come up with things that I am NOT thankful for. It has been nice to sit down and reflect on things I SHOULD be thankful for.

a special 51st

0051 - Liz Brown - my best friend of over 10 years. I could go on and on about her. And I will. In fact, today, I will just list how I am thankful for my dearest Liz. This week, I have grown to love her even more. She has had to deal with immense tragedy and heartache this past week. She lost someone very dear to her in a terrible way. But when I checked my mail this week, guess what I got? A card from her telling me how she is praying for me during this time when I miss Margaret. SHE WAS CONSOLING ME!

There's more...

She calls me this morning. Mind you, the funeral for Thomas Young was yesterday. So I wake up this morning to Liz calling me. I asked how the day went and all, then casually ask what she's doing (she sounded so chipper for it to be early). She said she was going to spend the day with Vanessa. Vanessa is a friend of ours from high school that is in Houston at M D Anderson getting chemo, only after receiving a bone marrow tranfusion last week. (please keep Vanessa in your prayers!) Today was the day Vanessa had to shave her head and Liz was going to be there with her. She said she wanted to "love her and hold her hand."

HOW SELFLESS CAN THIS GIRL BE??

All week, I have been bragging to everyone at the BSM about MY best friend. I am sure they are all tired of hearing how awesome Liz is after this week. But seriously, I am humbled to even know Liz.



And these are only a COUPLE of the OH SO MANY reasons I am eternally grateful to Liz.

0026 - Worship- Tonight we had all worship at the BSM... amazing

0027 - Band-aids - I cut the CRAP out of my finger today.... thank goodness I had a band-aid handy!

0028- My bed - I have had this bed for a LONG time...but I LOVE it

0029 - Tim Armstrong, Doug Boney, and good ol' Aravind - they came over today to help me decorate for Christmas (granted, I came home tonight and re-did some of it!)

0030 - Vaseline - i put it on my cuticles every night before going to bed. Besides making a big mess, it is much needed during this time of the year

0031 - Twitter - I was so against it for so long, but now, i LOVE it

0032 - The smell of cinnamon - I don't know what it is, but the smell of cinnamon makes me smile

0033 - Whoever thought of the rewards system on Chase Debit cards - seriously.... I'm MAKING money by SPENDING money!

0034 - The joy I get from wrapping Christmas presents - it makes me all giddy inside. I think about what each person's face will look like when they open the gift

0035 - Christmas songs, before they get overplayed - I love this time of the year, when Thanksgiving is barely behind us and Christmas songs are just starting to be played on the radio- once you hear that dumb Chipmunk Christmas song for the 139487387th time, you want to shoot your eye out with a Red Rider gun

0036 - The good people at Hulu - for allowing me and Amy to have "Glee Thursdays" in the office

0037 - Wireless internet - Seriously........ who would have thought 10 years ago that I could watch Grey's on my laptop in the living room while wrapping presents, then bring it back to my room while I lie down?

0038 - Friday morning coffee dates with Hannah - 'nough said

0039 - My iTouch - Not only do I play on it when I'm bored, but I keep my grocery list, my Christmas list, my to do list, and my calendar on there

0040- The moments when you are singing a worship song and one line just really resonates with you... and you just keep singing that one line in your head over and over - as if it was written just for you

0041 - COUPONS - Now I am not nearly as bad as my mom, but I can appreciate a good coupon!

0042 - God providing for my family - the past year has been rough....no sense in lying. But I look back and see how much God has provided for us, in so many ways

0043 - The Communities in Schools people- I mentored a girl all last year and a little this fall (before she dropped out because she got pregnant- guess i failed there!) but I started with a new mentee today.... and I really do appreciate what the CIS people do.

0044 - Nate Smith - he led our night of all worship tonight and he did an awesome job. Towards the end, he directed the students to take some time and pray for the campus. It was a special time.

0045 - Baptism - I was just thinking back to the special baptism service we had a few weeks ago at church and how awesome that was.

My friend Alexis is listing off 1001 things that she is thankful for! Over the past few days of reading her posts, I have been inspired to do the same...so here we go!


0001 - Heating- though I am not a cold natured person, I DO appreciate the heater being turned on when its cold!

0002- My apartment - I love that I live alone and I can do what I want when I want

0003- My family- they drive me crazy sometimes, but I would be so lost without them

0004 - Shoes - we take shoes for granted often, but TOMS has really opened my eyes in this regard

0005- Running water- i LOVE taking hot showers, and not everyone can do that

0006- My car, Gina - she may be old and she may be ugly, but by golly she gets me from point A to point B

0007 - My AWESOME friends- collectively, they are an incredible group of people that i am lucky to know

0008 - My job- i LOVE doing college ministry.

0009 - Craft blogs - my latest obsession. I print out so many projects and put them in my "to attempt" folder

0010- Goodwill- i can't mention craft blogs without mentioning Goodwill. So many of my craft-y attempts wouldn't be possible without Goodwill

0011- My straightener- ok, this may sound petty...but my straightener is the bomb.com...and my hair is wild...trust me, you WANT me to straighten my hair

0012 - Facebook- it helps me keep up with old friends, new friends, and ex-roommates that live on the other side of the world!

0013- The postal service- speaking of friends on the other side of the world, I am thankful that we have a postal service that allows me to send packages to the other side of the world.

0014 - Dollar Stores - enough said

0015 - Wednesday afternoons - I LOVE sitting down with Brittany and Jeananne and digging into the Word.

0016- My dishwasher- I am BEYOND thankful that I don't have to hand wash all of my dishes

0017- Texting - I texted all day everyday.

0018 - Chapstick- at this time of the year, I use it constantly

0019 - Heather, Ashley, and Brittany - they all came over at some point over the past two days to help me bake for my bake sale

0020- My WOM group - we all came together tonight and baked all kinds of stuff to sale..and made over 500 BUCKS! and it will all go to missions!

0021 - Spray paint - this goes along with my crafting...but it must be known, I spray paint EVERYTHING

0022 - Amy Hastings - over the past few months, she has become a good friend...someone I share a lot of good times and bad times with...I'm gonna miss her! (Plus she loves Goodwill too!)

0023 - Whoever puts Grey's Anatomy online - I'm obsessed. It's embarrassing how much Grey's I watch.

0024 - Gas prices - I paid 2.34 per gallon today. It's not ideal...but it's way better than the 4 bucks it was a couple of summers ago.

0025 - Razors - I HATE stubbly legs. I will get up in the middle of the night to shave just so I can sleep better... God Bless Mr Bic

Pray for the Sanctuary Fellowship

The following is an email I got from Liz regarding the devastating situation that has played out at her church, the Sanctuary Fellowship. I share it with you so you can know how to pray for the family, for the church, and for God to be glorified in this.


Dear Friends,


I wanted to write and ask you for your prayers. My pastor, Thomas Young, died Friday evening. As a friend, I covet your prayers. Pray for his wife, Erin, and their 3 children specifically Morgan(15), Graham(12), & Claudia(10). As you can imagine they are in intense pain. Pray for healing and understanding for the church members. Pray that Gods unending love is on the forefront of all our minds, that is all we really have. Pray for the staff as we make arrangements for the funeral and continue to lead The Sanctuary without our leader. Pray as friends and family of this man come to reconcile this with God. May our doubts and heartache lead to us knowing of God's suffering more.

We, as a church, have been OVERWHELMED by the graciousness of the churches and church leaders in Houston and around the US. We are blessed to be a part of a network of believes who know the body of Christ is not one group of people gathering in a building. The love of God is being poured over us throughout this time. Thank you for your words of encouragement and lifting up the family, friends, and our church members in your prayers. Check out the website, there are details posted and more to come. www.thesanctuaryfellowship.com Thank you, thank you, thank you!

The past is prologue,
Liz

Ministry Assistant
thesanctuaryfellowship.com