christmas thoughts

I hope everyone had as nice a Christmas as I did. It was so special to have everyone home again and enjoy spending time together and following the normal traditions we have.

I was thinking the other day as I was reading the Bible, about the star that 'shone so bright'. It is easy after 23 years of hearing the story to become somewhat callous to it, or it becomes in my mind just that, a story. But this year, God is helping me to make it come more alive in my mind. Every little detail was true and took place. And the result of the Christmas story was Jesus' death and resurrection.. our Salvation! It is overwhelming when you think about it!
Well, back to the star. I was thinking that it would be really awesome if we could still see it today. Perhaps if it shone on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day only. You know, God could do that! In some ways I think it would enhance our understanding of why we are celebrating.
But as soon as I was considering that, I also thought, God provided the promise of the rainbow and we can still see it every time it rains. How often do people look at the rainbow and think of His promise? I try to. But it has become unappreciated, overlooked and just an expected occasion. Sadly, it has even become somewhat of an icon for a sick, unbiblical act! This triggered my mind to realize, the Star of Bethlehem would mean nothing to people of the world and could easily fall down the same path of the rainbow. It would receive it's own made-up, passed-on, story and perhaps even some tag as repulsive as homosexuality not unlike the rainbow God gave to us as a promise!
Well, these are just a few ramblings that have been in my thoughts over the last week. Please share your response. Anyone else ever follow this train of thought?

*disclaimer: I am not prejudice against homosexuals. I do realize they are people with souls and try to love them as God does. But their lifestyle is not one I want to follow as I believe it is against God's plan in His written Word.

Catching up

Well, so many days have passed and so many things have taken place since my last post. I sorta survived finals. I actually have three incompletes on my grade card because I was too sick to take my last few final exams. So I have that to look forward to as soon as I get back. I really should study!
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After I got home I slept for like forever for a few days; finally got over the worst of my sickness. Then I worked this week making rocking chairs again. It is so incredibly handy to have a job available anytime I am home or want it. I am thankful for friends with good businesses.
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At the moment I am listening to my little brother singing 100 Bottles of 'Pop' on the Wall. He is competing with the Christmas music on the radio, and the dogs barking at whoever is at the door. Craziness, I love having a big family, and life certainly gets entertaining at times! My parents are on their way to St. Louis to pick up my brother, Ben, from the airport! Everyone is so excited to see him! The rest of us are home cleaning the house and decorating (well as soon I get off of here!).
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Well, I guess the person at the door was delivering pizza that some good fairy ordered and paid for in advance. Whoo hoo... I'm gonna go eat!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!! and HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

life such as it is

Well, we got snow that lasted for about a day and a half, then received buckets and buckets of rain. Today it is in the 60's! The weather is so insane! Well, it feels good anyhow, I am sitting here at work with my window open.
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It is still really busy with finals and homework. I stayed up all night last night studying and doing back-reading in T's room. Then we had some fun early this morning together and went to get some breakfast and coffee, which I desperately needed. The little trip was full of crazy moments and lots of laughs! I think we both vowed not to go anywhere with me when I have not had any sleep. I think we turned around four times (can't believe I am admitting this) because I was a little loopy and missed my turn. Well, overall it was a wonderful time of memory making, and what we both needed! My stomach still hurts from laughing so much!
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I took my second exam this morning and have four left to go. It will all be over soon, and I'll be home for a nice break! I cannot wait!
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A little update on the associations/restless thoughts. I believe I have 'solved' the basic issue and am very relieved! Turns out that I am not the only odd person in this respect; so I guess the next general assumption would be that I am somewhat normal?! Hmm... surely that is not completely possible! Anyhoo, I am glad for the peace of mind!
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The Christmas program is here and gone. I really enjoyed it and God really helped us! I was especially happy to see so many of my friends that came. It made everything more special and fun. I am so grateful that Jesus is our Remedy for anything and everything!
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Well, this afternoon has been especially quiet at work, a huge turn-around from the craziness yesterday. So I took advantage of the time to update. But this post has developed into great lengths, so I believe it is time to stop.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!!! Much love to everyone!

weather or not, whether or not

seems it can't make up its mind! yesterday it was 60 and raining, today it is freezing cold at 29 degrees!! Where is the snow? It is December, so in my mind, it is time for snow. Then it can melt in January ;)

It is odd how seeing/hearing/smelling certain things can invoke particular thoughts, emotions, and memories. While at times it is positive, these thoughts can be very unexpected and somewhat unwanted. Needless to say, I cannot imagine where some things originate! Since they appear, the desire to solve them arises, but not knowing where they are from and why they come makes it difficult. It is easier to shove them away for another day. Hopefully a day much further away from today.

For now, must focus on the current task... mountains and mountains of reading, writing, and projects. I am so thankful the semester is almost over! I am ready for a break!

adjectives, adverbs, nouns & more

tired
melancholy
exhausted
stressed
introspective
sad

hurting people
odd photos
scattered thoughts
mental confusion
dead fish

hope
Jesus
gratefulness
friends
music
children
gifts

LIFE