Well, my life has taken quite a turn toward crazy. I was so excited to get back in the swing of things with school, I completely forgot about how hard it is to keep things running smoothly in our house when I'm in school. Layer that with the fact that this semester is going to be H.A.R.D!!!!!!!!! Not 'I will have to spend a few extra hours a week studying' hard - more like 'I will be lucky if I survive this' hard. Getting a degree in history at Georgia College is no joke. I added up all the papers I will be required to write this semester - 108 pages! I have approx. 300 pages of outside reading to complete each week and I must be completing LOTS of research for the 10, 15, and 20 page final papers that will be due at the end of the semester. I have been introduced to the world of primary sources, which are found in archives all over the state that I will need to visit. Oh, and I now know where all 159 counties in Georgia can be located on a map.
Yeah, it's that kind of hard.
So if you see me pulling my hair out or hear me talking randomly to myself in the near future - just pity me.
Andy preached from 2 Col. 2 last Sunday and talked a lot about Christ being the fullness of God. He also shared about being made perfect in Him. At the time it was written perfect meant whole or complete. What I needed to hear from the message was that in Christ, God has supplied everything I need to be complete for the tasks He sets before me. I now that this is what I am supposed to be doing. I will need to keep this thought ever before me: Where I can't do it - God can.
I have already fought back and forth all week that there was no way I could possibly keep up with my full time job, full time school load, and full time family. I am right. I can't. But in Christ, I can claim the fullness of God to fill in where I lack, to make me wholly able.
I'm not saying it will be pretty. I am actually pretty sure it is going to get real ugly. I just know that come what may, in the end, I will be able to look back and see the mighty hand of God all over the thing.
If you think about it, please pray for me to have a sharpened focus on whatever task is before me. Pray that I will be able to quiet the swirling in my head that is reminding me of what I need to complete, so I will be able to complete what is in front of me. Pray for Jason and the girls because I will be spending many, many hours at the library.
But He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you. For my power is made perfect in weakness". Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.
2 Corinthians 12:9
Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.
Jeremiah 33:3
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
I Love School!
I love school!
I know that this fact alone puts me in a vast minority. But I don't care - I love it!
I have been anticipating getting back to 'normal' for months now. Being in classes really does feel normal to me.
Jason and I were talking yesterday about my crazy love of college and how I passionately want to teach at a college and how those things contrasted the fact that anyone who knows me, knows that I don't really like college students. I catch myself saying it all the time! As I have pondered this tidbit today I came to a stark realization: I really like college students when they are attending classes. It is all the other behavior that makes me nuts! But I can't really blame them because what else do they have to do outside of classes but to get obsessed with their social lives or their bodies or their hair or whatever. I mean, think about how much time I spend working (40 hours a week) plus being a wife and mommy (every other spare second). What do college students have to fill their lives - themselves and their friends! No wonder... This revelation has brought me so much peace as I began classes today. For me it is always more about understanding behavior than the actual behavior itself.
So, back to why I do like college students:
1. The must consume at least 3 gallons of water a day. Everyone on campus had a bottle of water in their hand.
2. They are quick to walk anywhere. They aren't in the habit of driving everywhere they go. If it is in walking distance, and sometimes when it isn't, they just go!
3. Speaking of extra walking- they are not so caught up in being so efficient that they get bent out of shape about walking somewhere else when they get there or walking back to where they just came from to accompany a friend. I like that!
4. They wear sensible shoes. I'm sure it has a lot to do with the walking. Unlike me who wore boots with heals because I was worried about the ice today (My only boots happen to have heals- I thought it wouldn't be that bad- I was incorrect). I am jumping on this band-wagon.
5. They can appreciate a good pair of jeans. And they will wear them and wear them and wear them. I am just jealous.
6. They actually are extending a good bit of respect to the professor by turning their phones on silent and not touching them for 75 minutes. The generation that I tend to share a classroom with is a plugged-in generation. They are rarely unplugged from every move of every friend. It is effort for them to unplug and give someone their full attention. I was pleasantly surprised to not see a single phone out during a single class.
7. When it comes to finding your class or making sure they are in the right room - they just ask until someone knows the answer. They don't let self-consciousness or fear keep them from being in the right place. Not to mention, they are quick to announce the information they have discovered to anyone who will listen!
8. Things I think I have known forever can be brand new information to them. Second only to learning something for the first time myself, I adore watching it happen to someone else.
9. They create this whole other little world while on campus. I have a feeling it is because of the tendency for the world to revolve around you when you are in college, but it is cool. I like most the fact that I get to be a close observer and a small part of it all at the same time.
Anyway, all of my babbling to say: I love school! I feel normal and at home in a classroom. I count it a great privilege to sit in a lecture and listen to someone unfold an idea that is totally new to me. That kind of learning is one of my favorite things in the whole world. It happened tonight during my Era of Segregation class. It made my heart beat really hard and had me sitting on the edge of my chair the rest of the class. It is my kind of high. Lucky for me, I don't know anything yet!
It is going to be a challenging quarter seeing as how 3 of my 4 classes double as graduate classes, but I am so ready to take on the challenge!
I love school!
I know that this fact alone puts me in a vast minority. But I don't care - I love it!
I have been anticipating getting back to 'normal' for months now. Being in classes really does feel normal to me.
Jason and I were talking yesterday about my crazy love of college and how I passionately want to teach at a college and how those things contrasted the fact that anyone who knows me, knows that I don't really like college students. I catch myself saying it all the time! As I have pondered this tidbit today I came to a stark realization: I really like college students when they are attending classes. It is all the other behavior that makes me nuts! But I can't really blame them because what else do they have to do outside of classes but to get obsessed with their social lives or their bodies or their hair or whatever. I mean, think about how much time I spend working (40 hours a week) plus being a wife and mommy (every other spare second). What do college students have to fill their lives - themselves and their friends! No wonder... This revelation has brought me so much peace as I began classes today. For me it is always more about understanding behavior than the actual behavior itself.
So, back to why I do like college students:
1. The must consume at least 3 gallons of water a day. Everyone on campus had a bottle of water in their hand.
2. They are quick to walk anywhere. They aren't in the habit of driving everywhere they go. If it is in walking distance, and sometimes when it isn't, they just go!
3. Speaking of extra walking- they are not so caught up in being so efficient that they get bent out of shape about walking somewhere else when they get there or walking back to where they just came from to accompany a friend. I like that!
4. They wear sensible shoes. I'm sure it has a lot to do with the walking. Unlike me who wore boots with heals because I was worried about the ice today (My only boots happen to have heals- I thought it wouldn't be that bad- I was incorrect). I am jumping on this band-wagon.
5. They can appreciate a good pair of jeans. And they will wear them and wear them and wear them. I am just jealous.
6. They actually are extending a good bit of respect to the professor by turning their phones on silent and not touching them for 75 minutes. The generation that I tend to share a classroom with is a plugged-in generation. They are rarely unplugged from every move of every friend. It is effort for them to unplug and give someone their full attention. I was pleasantly surprised to not see a single phone out during a single class.
7. When it comes to finding your class or making sure they are in the right room - they just ask until someone knows the answer. They don't let self-consciousness or fear keep them from being in the right place. Not to mention, they are quick to announce the information they have discovered to anyone who will listen!
8. Things I think I have known forever can be brand new information to them. Second only to learning something for the first time myself, I adore watching it happen to someone else.
9. They create this whole other little world while on campus. I have a feeling it is because of the tendency for the world to revolve around you when you are in college, but it is cool. I like most the fact that I get to be a close observer and a small part of it all at the same time.
Anyway, all of my babbling to say: I love school! I feel normal and at home in a classroom. I count it a great privilege to sit in a lecture and listen to someone unfold an idea that is totally new to me. That kind of learning is one of my favorite things in the whole world. It happened tonight during my Era of Segregation class. It made my heart beat really hard and had me sitting on the edge of my chair the rest of the class. It is my kind of high. Lucky for me, I don't know anything yet!
It is going to be a challenging quarter seeing as how 3 of my 4 classes double as graduate classes, but I am so ready to take on the challenge!
I love school!
Monday, January 10, 2011
Books For Sale!!!!!!!!!! (and DVD's too)
In my countdown of new years' resolutions I mentioned that I am selling my books. I sold 5 this week alone on half.com!!! Several people asked me about looking at them and potentially getting some for themselves! So, I am attaching a list with the prices I have for half.com. I will also ship items. It costs about $2.60 to mail a book so I'll split the cost with anyone who wants me to mail books or DVD's. Just let me know if you are interested.... Thanks for helping me de-clutter and keep one of my resolutions!!!
| | Condition | |
| Master Your Metabolism Jillian Michaels (Biggest Loser) (Hardcover, 2009) | Like New | 11.75 |
| Promise Me Tomorrow: Lori Wick (Book, 1997) | Acceptable | 1.75 |
| Date Night in a Minivan: Lorilee Craker (Paperback, 2008) | Like New | 5.75 |
| So Long, Insecurity: Beth Moore (Hardcover, 2010) | Like New | 13.99 |
| Simplify Your Time: Marcia Ramsland (Paperback, 2006) | Like New | 4.75 |
| The Brushstroke Legacy: Lauraine Snelling (Paperback, 2007) Comments: Large Print. Book was dropped in water, but still is a great read. | Acceptable | 1.75 |
| Confessions of a Good Christian Girl: Anne Christian Buchanan (Hardcover, 2007) | Like New | 7.75 |
| Bringing Up Kids Without Tearing Them Down: Kevin Leman (Hardcover, 1993) | Good | 4.75 |
| She Calls Me Daddy: Robert Wolgemuth (Paperback, 1996) | Very Good | 4.75 |
| The Strong-Willed Wife: Debbie L. Cherry (Paperback, 2007) | Like New | 8.75 |
| Voices Of The Faithful: Beth Moore (Hardcover, 2005) | Like New | 9.99 |
| The Biggest Loser Complete Calorie Counter: Biggest Loser Experts And Cast (Paperback, 2006) | Like New | 5.75 |
| The Frazzled Female: Cindi Wood (Hardcover, 2008) | Like New | 6.75 |
| Every Day With God: Doris Nichols (Hardcover, 1990) | Very Good | 4.75 |
| God Works the Night Shift: Ron Mehl (Hardcover, 1994) | Like New | 5.75 |
| Becoming a Student of God's Word: Max Lucado (Other, 2007) | Like New | 7.75 |
| Finding Strength for Your Struggles: Max Lucado (Other, 2007) Comments: CD Included | Like New | 7.75 |
| Intimate Issues: Linda Dillow (Hardcover, 1999) | Like New | 7.75 |
| A Voice in the Wind: Francine Rivers (Paperback, 1993) | Very Good | 5.75 |
| Eyes to See (Hardcover, 2008) | Like New | 4.75 |
| Called And Accountable: Henry T. Blackaby (Hardcover, 2007) | Like New | 7.75 |
| Winning by Losing: Jillian Michaels (Paperback, 2007) | Good | 5.75 |
| Generational Legacy: Dan LeLaCheur (Book, 1994) | Like New | 3.99 |
| Your God Is Too Safe: Mark Aldham Buchanan (Paperback, 2001) Comments: Something has gotten on the bottom-side edges of some of the pages and a | Acceptable | 3.75 |
| Power Of A Praying Wife: Stormie Omartian (Hardcover, 2003) | Like New | 4.75 |
| The Prince: Francine Rivers (Hardcover, 2005) | Like New | 6.75 |
| Making The Cut (Paperback, 2008) Comments: No wear and tear on book, however, something dripped on first few pages | Like New | 9.75 |
| Lies Women Believe: Nancy Leigh Demoss (Paperback, 2006) | Like New | 6.99 |
| Quick Scripture Reference for Counseling Youth: Keith R. Miller (Hardcover, 2006) | Like New | 6.00 |
| The Virtuous Woman: Vicki Courtney (Hardcover, 2004) | Very Good | 7.99 |
| My Heart's Desire: David Jeremiah (Hardcover, 2002) | Like New | 4.75 |
| You Have What It Takes (Paperback, 2007) | Like New | 4.00 |
| Every Man's Marriage Workbook: Fred Stoeker (Paperback, 2003) | Like New | 5.00 |
| Weight Watchers New Complete Cookbook: Nancy Gagliardi (Book, 1998) | Like New | 9.99 |
| Wolfgang Puck Makes It Easy: Martha Rose Shulman (Hardcover, 2004) | Like New | 9.99 |
| What's Cooking Low Fat: Kathryn Hawkins (Hardcover, 1998) | Brand New | 9.99 |
| The Financial Peace Planner (Paperback, 1998) | Very Good | 7.75 |
| Signing Made Easy: Mickey Flodin (Paperback, 1989) | Like New | 8.75 |
| The Complete Guide to Contracting Your Home: Dave McGuerty (Paperback, 1997) | Very Good | 8.75 |
| Lowes Complete Home Decorating: Lowe's (Firm) (Hardcover, 2004) | Like New | 14.95 |
| A Beautiful Offering (Paperback, 2006) | Like New | 6.75 |
| Do You Think I'm Beautiful?: Angela Thomas (Paperback, 2005) | Like New | 6.75 |
| Jesus: Grant R. Jeffrey (Paperback, 1999) | Like New | 4.75 |
Velvet Elvis: Rob Bell (Paperback, 2006) | Like New | 6.00 |
| Women Helping Women (Paperback, 1997) | Good | 7.75 |
| Leading from Your Strengths: Cox Trent (Hardcover, 2004) | Like New | 5.00 |
| The Excellent Wife (Paperback, 1996) | Like New | 6.75 |
| An Echo in the Darkness (Paperback, 1994) | Very Good | 8.75 |
| A Jewel in His Crown: Priscilla Shirer (Paperback, 2004) | Like New | 6.75 |
| 90 Minutes in Heaven (Paperback, 2004) | Very Good | 4.75 |
DVD's
Extraordinary Faith DVD Lessons – Sheila Walsh – Includes Study Guide with highlighting and a little writing. $5.00
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Countdown
10 - In 2011 I plan to complete at least 10 Bible Studies. I am starting with No other Gods, by Kelly Minter!
9 - In 2011 I plan to try to get 8 - 9 hours of sleep every night. I know it seems like a pipe dream, but sleep is important. If I can get control of this aspect of my life I know I will be healthier and more at peace. This will teach me to really get rid of things that are sucking up my time that aren't beneficial.
8 - In 2011 I plan to drink at least 8 glasses of water every day
7 - In 2011 I plan to have a daily quiet time with the Lord 7 days a week
6 - In 2011 I plan to spend the next 6 weeks focusing on not spending unnecessary money. During the Holidays I always get a little spend-happy and this year I want to change my mindset early on.
5 - In 2011 I plan to eliminate clutter by selling or giving away at least 5 items every month. I have decided to go all digital and have put all of my books (except the most sentimental ones) on half.com. It was tough to do but each time I sell one I get to buy it for my Kindle. I have already sold 4 books!!!
4 - In 2011 I plan to find at least 4 special activities that I can do with my girls each month. Since I know my schedule is about to go to crazy and back with school starting, I really want both of my girls to still feel like a priority and not get lost in the shuffle. I want to commit to doing something that is just for them each week so they can have mommy-time and I can keep my priorities in order.
3 - In 2011 I plan to exercise at least 3 times each week. Depot, here I come. I am not exactly excited about trying to go to any gym, especially GCSU's, consistently. But it is time to get out of my comfort zone and learn to be disciplined!
2 - In 2011 I plan to memorize 2 new scripture passages each month. I will be doing the Siesta Scripture Memory Club that Beth Moore hosts on her blog.
1 - In 2011 I will strive to make God the #1 priority in my life. When He is the center, all things will fall into place just where they need to be.
Happy New Year!!!!!!!
9 - In 2011 I plan to try to get 8 - 9 hours of sleep every night. I know it seems like a pipe dream, but sleep is important. If I can get control of this aspect of my life I know I will be healthier and more at peace. This will teach me to really get rid of things that are sucking up my time that aren't beneficial.
8 - In 2011 I plan to drink at least 8 glasses of water every day
7 - In 2011 I plan to have a daily quiet time with the Lord 7 days a week
6 - In 2011 I plan to spend the next 6 weeks focusing on not spending unnecessary money. During the Holidays I always get a little spend-happy and this year I want to change my mindset early on.
5 - In 2011 I plan to eliminate clutter by selling or giving away at least 5 items every month. I have decided to go all digital and have put all of my books (except the most sentimental ones) on half.com. It was tough to do but each time I sell one I get to buy it for my Kindle. I have already sold 4 books!!!
4 - In 2011 I plan to find at least 4 special activities that I can do with my girls each month. Since I know my schedule is about to go to crazy and back with school starting, I really want both of my girls to still feel like a priority and not get lost in the shuffle. I want to commit to doing something that is just for them each week so they can have mommy-time and I can keep my priorities in order.
3 - In 2011 I plan to exercise at least 3 times each week. Depot, here I come. I am not exactly excited about trying to go to any gym, especially GCSU's, consistently. But it is time to get out of my comfort zone and learn to be disciplined!
2 - In 2011 I plan to memorize 2 new scripture passages each month. I will be doing the Siesta Scripture Memory Club that Beth Moore hosts on her blog.
1 - In 2011 I will strive to make God the #1 priority in my life. When He is the center, all things will fall into place just where they need to be.
Happy New Year!!!!!!!
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