(Tuesday)
Hey guys,
Sometimes, we have bad days, days when everything is going wrong, and days when we just need some extra lovin', and today is that day for my wonderful friend Patricia. Patricia is a soccer star, she always has been, and I know she always will be, but she is also a star just as a person, she has such great strength of character, and she has a servant heart, and it shows in everything she does. Tonight, Patricia had a BIG soccer game, against the only other team in their division that was undefeated, but we had a home field advantage, and could not imagine losing to this team. About 15 minutes into the game, Patricia(who is already playing injured) got kicked in the ankle, and fell to the ground. Our whole group of supporters for Patricia held our breath as they walked her off the field, and began to wrap her ankle. Our hearts all broke for Patricia, she KNEW how important this game was, and she did NOT want to let her team down. We all assumed that after they duct taped an ice pack to her ankle, she was out of the game, but after the half-time huddle, she came back carrying her ice pack, socks and shoes on and ready to get back in. About 10 minutes later, she was fouled AGAIN, and AGAIN was hurt and taken out of the game. She was not going to let them get the best of her though, she DID come back in, and she played her heart out tonight. Unfortunately, they ended up losing their first game of the season 1-0. As I waited for Patricia, so many feelings flew through my head, sadness about the loss, sadness for my friend who was hurting and heartbroken, but also PROUD of that friend, proud of the amount of sheer determination that she showed out on the field. Each and every time she was pulled out tonight, my friends and I looked at each other and said, "There's no way she's going back in...", and she proved us wrong each and every time, she went out there full force, and full of determination, because soccer is her passion and soccer is what her heart lives for. Patricia's love for others, and love for God is almost unfathomable at times, for example, shortly after she FIRST got hurt and before she got pulled out, one of her teammates got hurt, and Patricia put aside HER pain and frustration to be the first one by her side lifting her back up and encouraging her. Patricia is a natural born leader, even though she is only a freshman, she has shown so much maturity, and passion by stepping up in the youth group, by being there for those who need help, and just by living her life wherever she is, whatever she's doing, for Christ. Patricia, I am so, SO proud of you. Your strong character, care for others, passion for Christ, and leadership qualities are SO much more valuable than how many soccer games you win or lose. You are a beautiful and wonderful daughter of God, inside and out, and that is SO much more precious than any soccer trophy or soccer game. I love you with all my heart baby girl! Sleep well, ice your knee, ankle, and probably every limb of your body, you deserve it!
<3 Always,
Rose
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Day 308-Short Day!
(Monday)
Hey guys!
So, I got to work this morning absolutely EXHAUSTED from this weekend, mainly Sunday, and I found out, I only had to take Alora to school! That meant that once she was at school, I could go home, go to a coffee shop, what ever, I essentially had the day off! I so enjoyed spending time JUST on my schoolwork today, and just trying to finish what I need to finish before we leave on Thursday for Spring Break! It was definitely a relief to NOT have to watch and take care of a 4 year old all day!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys!
So, I got to work this morning absolutely EXHAUSTED from this weekend, mainly Sunday, and I found out, I only had to take Alora to school! That meant that once she was at school, I could go home, go to a coffee shop, what ever, I essentially had the day off! I so enjoyed spending time JUST on my schoolwork today, and just trying to finish what I need to finish before we leave on Thursday for Spring Break! It was definitely a relief to NOT have to watch and take care of a 4 year old all day!
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 307-Music
(Sunday)
Hey guys,
As many of you know, this past month, I have been working and preparing to lead worship for Youth Sunday. At our church, Youth Sunday is a BIG deal, the more youth they have participate, the happier they are. With it also being the Sunday before Easter, they incorporate lots of readings of scripture of the holy week leading up to Jesus' crucifixion, and resurrection. The adults of the congregation try to remain behind the scenes for the most part, obviously the youth director, music director, and senior pastor are all making sure we are doing everything we need to be doing to make the service run smoothly, but they are mainly behind the scenes. Obviously, this service is a HUGE production, with lots of moving parts, entrances and exits, and just logistical things to make sure that it all runs smoothly, so when I got to the church this morning, I was STRESSED. Especially with me being SUCH a big role in the service, there was a lot riding on me to remember when and where to enter and exit, when to move for the offertory, and things like that. Combine that with the fact that I was playing the piano in public for the first time in 10 years, and you can have just a vague idea of how stressed I was. As the service started, one song after another, we plowed through almost seamlessly, no one forgot when to move, or forgot what they were supposed to read, or where they were supposed to stand, I was very surprised! Personally, in the 4 songs that I performed, I only made ONE small mistake, and I know because my Mom the piano teacher didn't hear it, it must have been small. As I left the sanctuary and headed downstairs for lunch, I was ASTONISHED by my own performance and so PROUD that we actually pulled it off. I was so relieved that I had done it, and I didn't have to worry about it, but more than that, I was relieved to know that we did an awesome job serving and worshipping our KING up there! Because of today, Youth Sunday will ALWAYS be one of my favorite Sundays, and it will remind me of how much our youth here love Jesus, and how hard they worked to be able to lead the church in praising him!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
As many of you know, this past month, I have been working and preparing to lead worship for Youth Sunday. At our church, Youth Sunday is a BIG deal, the more youth they have participate, the happier they are. With it also being the Sunday before Easter, they incorporate lots of readings of scripture of the holy week leading up to Jesus' crucifixion, and resurrection. The adults of the congregation try to remain behind the scenes for the most part, obviously the youth director, music director, and senior pastor are all making sure we are doing everything we need to be doing to make the service run smoothly, but they are mainly behind the scenes. Obviously, this service is a HUGE production, with lots of moving parts, entrances and exits, and just logistical things to make sure that it all runs smoothly, so when I got to the church this morning, I was STRESSED. Especially with me being SUCH a big role in the service, there was a lot riding on me to remember when and where to enter and exit, when to move for the offertory, and things like that. Combine that with the fact that I was playing the piano in public for the first time in 10 years, and you can have just a vague idea of how stressed I was. As the service started, one song after another, we plowed through almost seamlessly, no one forgot when to move, or forgot what they were supposed to read, or where they were supposed to stand, I was very surprised! Personally, in the 4 songs that I performed, I only made ONE small mistake, and I know because my Mom the piano teacher didn't hear it, it must have been small. As I left the sanctuary and headed downstairs for lunch, I was ASTONISHED by my own performance and so PROUD that we actually pulled it off. I was so relieved that I had done it, and I didn't have to worry about it, but more than that, I was relieved to know that we did an awesome job serving and worshipping our KING up there! Because of today, Youth Sunday will ALWAYS be one of my favorite Sundays, and it will remind me of how much our youth here love Jesus, and how hard they worked to be able to lead the church in praising him!
<3 Always,
Rose
Monday, March 30, 2015
Day 306- Friends
(Saturday)
Hey guys,
So, if you haven't caught on by now, in the past few months, Adrienne and I have become very, VERY close. She looks after me like a mother hen, but at the same time, she gives me sass like she's my sister. Regardless of how our friendship is categorized, one thing is for sure, when we're together, we'll have a GREAT time :) I still remember the DAY after I got home from Chicago, Adrienne and I got together, and as we were sitting in her office, Pastor Rob walks in and says, "Yeah, I assumed that Rose had gotten back, it just got REALLY loud in here..." That's the kind of friendship that we have, and I love it <3 Anyways, tonight, we as a family got to go to Adrienne and her husband Dave's house and enjoy some Chicago style food(THEY GOT THE CHOPPED SALAD RECIPE FROM PORTILLOS AND MADE IT YOU GUYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!), which we thoroughly enjoyed, and the fact that both of them were STILL smiling after the insane Stevens kids had blown through their house just shows how amazing they are!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, if you haven't caught on by now, in the past few months, Adrienne and I have become very, VERY close. She looks after me like a mother hen, but at the same time, she gives me sass like she's my sister. Regardless of how our friendship is categorized, one thing is for sure, when we're together, we'll have a GREAT time :) I still remember the DAY after I got home from Chicago, Adrienne and I got together, and as we were sitting in her office, Pastor Rob walks in and says, "Yeah, I assumed that Rose had gotten back, it just got REALLY loud in here..." That's the kind of friendship that we have, and I love it <3 Anyways, tonight, we as a family got to go to Adrienne and her husband Dave's house and enjoy some Chicago style food(THEY GOT THE CHOPPED SALAD RECIPE FROM PORTILLOS AND MADE IT YOU GUYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!), which we thoroughly enjoyed, and the fact that both of them were STILL smiling after the insane Stevens kids had blown through their house just shows how amazing they are!
<3 Always,
Rose
Friday, March 27, 2015
Day 304-FRIDAY!
Hey guys,
After a VERY long, VERY emotional week, I can proudly say, I made it! I am so happy to be done with this week, and to devote this weekend to what I LOVE to do, bring praise to God through worship. There is still a LOT of practicing that I need to get done before Sunday, but no matter what happens, I know that people will be blessed, and I can't wait!
<3 Always,
Rose
After a VERY long, VERY emotional week, I can proudly say, I made it! I am so happy to be done with this week, and to devote this weekend to what I LOVE to do, bring praise to God through worship. There is still a LOT of practicing that I need to get done before Sunday, but no matter what happens, I know that people will be blessed, and I can't wait!
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 303-Life goes on, we are blessed.
(Thursday)
Hey guys,
For some of you, this will sound very familiar, because it is exactly what I put up on Facebook today, but that's ok...
Two years. Wow. It's hard to believe that SO much has changed in 24 months. There are days like today, when it feels like it's been an eternity since I've seen my brother, and my best friend, but then, there are days when it seems like it was just yesterday that we took a road trip down to Lees McRae, and spent the afternoon rock hopping. These two years have EASILY been the hardest two years I have EVER had to go through, but not a day goes by that I don't see God working in my life, and in my family's life. Obviously, there are some days when it's just too much, too much heartache, too much sadness, and too much lonliness to face the world, but on those days I cry to God, he hears my cries, and he cries with me. One of my very favorite stories in the Bible is one that shows the compassion Jesus has for his children. As he is entering the city gates, he sees a woman grieving the loss of her son, and it says that Jesus WEPT with her, his heart was truly broken for her broken heart. God hears us, God has compassion on us, but God also knows that he has a plan in store for us that is greater than we could ever BEGIN to imagine. The last 2 years has included many, MANY tears, a lot of sadness, anger, frustration, and just feelings of lonliness, but for me, they have also included PHENOMENAL growth in me as a person, as a sister, as a friend, as a role model, and just as a christian. I have grown in maturity and unending faith and trust in God, and that's not to say that it makes the pain and sadness WORTH IT, but it's a start. I am so grateful and have been so blessed by EVERYONE who has gathered around my family, loved us, supported us, and prayed for us. I know that today, Graham's legacy is STILL echoing around the world, and that makes me so proud, my brother was indeed a phenomenal person and man of God, and I ask myself every day, HOW did I get so lucky?
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
For some of you, this will sound very familiar, because it is exactly what I put up on Facebook today, but that's ok...
Two years. Wow. It's hard to believe that SO much has changed in 24 months. There are days like today, when it feels like it's been an eternity since I've seen my brother, and my best friend, but then, there are days when it seems like it was just yesterday that we took a road trip down to Lees McRae, and spent the afternoon rock hopping. These two years have EASILY been the hardest two years I have EVER had to go through, but not a day goes by that I don't see God working in my life, and in my family's life. Obviously, there are some days when it's just too much, too much heartache, too much sadness, and too much lonliness to face the world, but on those days I cry to God, he hears my cries, and he cries with me. One of my very favorite stories in the Bible is one that shows the compassion Jesus has for his children. As he is entering the city gates, he sees a woman grieving the loss of her son, and it says that Jesus WEPT with her, his heart was truly broken for her broken heart. God hears us, God has compassion on us, but God also knows that he has a plan in store for us that is greater than we could ever BEGIN to imagine. The last 2 years has included many, MANY tears, a lot of sadness, anger, frustration, and just feelings of lonliness, but for me, they have also included PHENOMENAL growth in me as a person, as a sister, as a friend, as a role model, and just as a christian. I have grown in maturity and unending faith and trust in God, and that's not to say that it makes the pain and sadness WORTH IT, but it's a start. I am so grateful and have been so blessed by EVERYONE who has gathered around my family, loved us, supported us, and prayed for us. I know that today, Graham's legacy is STILL echoing around the world, and that makes me so proud, my brother was indeed a phenomenal person and man of God, and I ask myself every day, HOW did I get so lucky?
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 302-Little ones
(Wednesday)
Hey guys!
So,today I had a day packed FULL of adorable little kids! This afternoon, we had an impromptu visit with the DeBaermaker's(Abbigail and Zeeke), and the girls were LOVING spending time together! It was so hilarious to watch them playing together, and just having a blast. Later that night, Katie and I helped the kids choir, who range in age from 3, all the way through 1st grade. The kids were completely enamored with us helping them, and I can't WAIT to perform with them on Sunday!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys!
So,today I had a day packed FULL of adorable little kids! This afternoon, we had an impromptu visit with the DeBaermaker's(Abbigail and Zeeke), and the girls were LOVING spending time together! It was so hilarious to watch them playing together, and just having a blast. Later that night, Katie and I helped the kids choir, who range in age from 3, all the way through 1st grade. The kids were completely enamored with us helping them, and I can't WAIT to perform with them on Sunday!
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 301- GORGEOUS weather!
(Tuesday)
Hey guys,
So, I guess it's safe to say that I could DEFINITELY get used to it being 70's in March...sorry Chicago! Anyways, Adrienne and I decided to make the best of this fantastic weather, and take Alora to the park for a picnic. It was absolutely glorious, Alora ate ALL her food(she was being propelled by the playground...), and then she went off to play, and Adrienne and I had a tad bit of time to talk together while she played :)
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, I guess it's safe to say that I could DEFINITELY get used to it being 70's in March...sorry Chicago! Anyways, Adrienne and I decided to make the best of this fantastic weather, and take Alora to the park for a picnic. It was absolutely glorious, Alora ate ALL her food(she was being propelled by the playground...), and then she went off to play, and Adrienne and I had a tad bit of time to talk together while she played :)
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 300-MUSIC!
(Monday)
Hey guys,
So, this coming week for those of you that don't know, is youth Sunday,and at our church, it's a HUGE deal. All the youth get excited to share their talents and passion for Christ with the rest of the church, especially because our church has 2 different services, we don't associate much with the other service...:P Anyways, SOMEHOW, I got roped into not only worship leading, but also accompanying on piano, which should be VERY interesting...On top of that, I'm also singing the offertory, AND helping the kids choir! I am so excited to share my gift of music with the church, and after our rehearsal this morning, I can confidently say, while I'm not QUITE confident in the worship pieces, I DO know that the offertory is going to be AWESOME!
<3 Always,
Rose
Sunday, March 22, 2015
Day 299- Crafts
(TODAY!)
Hey guys,
So, after yet ANOTHER emotionally charged morning, all I wanted to do was go to my room and work on some of my current projects. For me, crafting, whether it's making birthday cards, bracelets, painting, coloring, and even making tutus, has always been calming, and almost therapeutic to me. I love the colors, the uniqueness of each creation, and of course, the fact that perfection can ACTUALLY be achieved! When I'm doing crafts, similar to when I'm singing or playing music, I am in my zone, or in my happy place, and the hours just seem to FLY by.
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, after yet ANOTHER emotionally charged morning, all I wanted to do was go to my room and work on some of my current projects. For me, crafting, whether it's making birthday cards, bracelets, painting, coloring, and even making tutus, has always been calming, and almost therapeutic to me. I love the colors, the uniqueness of each creation, and of course, the fact that perfection can ACTUALLY be achieved! When I'm doing crafts, similar to when I'm singing or playing music, I am in my zone, or in my happy place, and the hours just seem to FLY by.
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 298- Blowing Rock
(Saturday)
Hey guys!
So, after watching Shane play soccer in Boone this morning, we decided to do a little shopping. We spent a few hours exploring the adorable little shops that make up Downtown Blowing Rock, and we even got ice cream! ;-) Seriously, I could easily spend all day in just ONE of these little shops, let alone 5 or 6 of them! It was a ton of fun just having time apart from the other crazy kids, and enjoying that it was only the 3 of us(Mom, Shane, and I).
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys!
So, after watching Shane play soccer in Boone this morning, we decided to do a little shopping. We spent a few hours exploring the adorable little shops that make up Downtown Blowing Rock, and we even got ice cream! ;-) Seriously, I could easily spend all day in just ONE of these little shops, let alone 5 or 6 of them! It was a ton of fun just having time apart from the other crazy kids, and enjoying that it was only the 3 of us(Mom, Shane, and I).
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 297- Parents night out!
(Friday)
Hey guys,
So, after yesterday, I was glad that today was filled with comfort and smiles. Tonight, I got to spend my night with my high-school kids, caring for the little ones of First Presbyterian Church. It's amazing how much community can lift my spirits, how good it feels to know that whatever crap is going on in your life, you are loved, and that will never change. Combine that with the absolute adorableness of little kids, and you have yourself a stellar night!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, after yesterday, I was glad that today was filled with comfort and smiles. Tonight, I got to spend my night with my high-school kids, caring for the little ones of First Presbyterian Church. It's amazing how much community can lift my spirits, how good it feels to know that whatever crap is going on in your life, you are loved, and that will never change. Combine that with the absolute adorableness of little kids, and you have yourself a stellar night!
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 296-God's Plan
(Thursday)
Hey guys,
All right, let's face it, today was NOT a good day. To have your dreams built up and then see them all fall to the ground in shattered little pieces is a horrible, HORRIBLE feeling. I spent a lot of today crying, I spent a lot of it in frustration and anger, but I also spent a lot of it in praise. Praise? You ask. Yes, praise. Praise because God KNOWS there is a better place for me, in fact God has the PERFECT place just waiting for me, and I can rest in that. If Wheaton was God's plan for me, he would have opened that door, instead, he's in the process of opening another. Of course, I wish that I could know WHY God chose to close this door, and WHAT is that perfect place and the perfect door for me. I wish I didn't have to experience the pain and let down of being rejected, and I wish that I knew what God has in store for me. This is life though, God never said it would be easy, or that it would be fun, but he DID say that he will be with us every step of the way. As these questions burned in my head today, I was reminded of a time, almost 2 years ago, that our family was asking these very same questions. As I look back and see how much my life HAS changed since then, I can see that God had his hand in everything that happened, and that gives me so much encouragement and peace that this is just another struggle. One of the most encouraging songs that I had on repeat all throughout today was "Only A Mountain" by Jason Castro. The chorus is PHENOMENAL. "This is only a mountain, you don't have to find your way around it. Tell it to move, it'll move, tell it to fall, it'll fall. This is only a moment, you don't have to let your fear control it. Tell it to move, it'll move, tell it to fall, it'll fall." This is so true, and so encouraging to me, really the whole song brings me to tears. God's power can LITERALLY move mountains, no matter HOW high it looks. I know there will be a day when I can see why I didn't get into Wheaton, there will be a day when I can ask God, and he'll explain why I had to lose Graham, but for now, I am ok not knowing. I am ok resting in the truth that God won't EVER leave, no matter how alone I feel.
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
All right, let's face it, today was NOT a good day. To have your dreams built up and then see them all fall to the ground in shattered little pieces is a horrible, HORRIBLE feeling. I spent a lot of today crying, I spent a lot of it in frustration and anger, but I also spent a lot of it in praise. Praise? You ask. Yes, praise. Praise because God KNOWS there is a better place for me, in fact God has the PERFECT place just waiting for me, and I can rest in that. If Wheaton was God's plan for me, he would have opened that door, instead, he's in the process of opening another. Of course, I wish that I could know WHY God chose to close this door, and WHAT is that perfect place and the perfect door for me. I wish I didn't have to experience the pain and let down of being rejected, and I wish that I knew what God has in store for me. This is life though, God never said it would be easy, or that it would be fun, but he DID say that he will be with us every step of the way. As these questions burned in my head today, I was reminded of a time, almost 2 years ago, that our family was asking these very same questions. As I look back and see how much my life HAS changed since then, I can see that God had his hand in everything that happened, and that gives me so much encouragement and peace that this is just another struggle. One of the most encouraging songs that I had on repeat all throughout today was "Only A Mountain" by Jason Castro. The chorus is PHENOMENAL. "This is only a mountain, you don't have to find your way around it. Tell it to move, it'll move, tell it to fall, it'll fall. This is only a moment, you don't have to let your fear control it. Tell it to move, it'll move, tell it to fall, it'll fall." This is so true, and so encouraging to me, really the whole song brings me to tears. God's power can LITERALLY move mountains, no matter HOW high it looks. I know there will be a day when I can see why I didn't get into Wheaton, there will be a day when I can ask God, and he'll explain why I had to lose Graham, but for now, I am ok not knowing. I am ok resting in the truth that God won't EVER leave, no matter how alone I feel.
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 295-Rachel
(Wednesday)
Hey guys,
It's true what they say, "You never know what you've got until it's gone." and that's how I felt today. Since leaving, I have certainly lost contact with many friends, and that really breaks my heart, but at the same time, I know that the friends I AM keeping contact with are real and true friends. Long distance friendships are definitely very hard, but they also strengthen the relationship between the two of you. In the past 2 years, Rachel and I have become fast friends, whether it was grabbing dinner together, roller skating up to the park, or just worshiping our awesome God together at 8:23 nights, we have learned to love, encourage, and support each other. Our last week in Wheaton, to things happened in our friendship; first, Rachel never left. Literally. She would leave at like 10 o'clock at night every day, and most days she'd be up playing with the boys when I woke up. She wanted to savor every moment she could not only with me, but with our family. The second thing that happened was a lot more subtle, I really believe that the two of us began to prepare ourselves for the worst. We began preparing ourselves for good-bye's, the long months apart, the loneliness, and missing each other, but honestly, we were fools. Nothing has changed about our friendship, we still love, encourage, and support each other, probably more now than when we got to see each other every week. The time we spent together, and the time we get to spend talking to each other has so much more meaning and substance now. We are real with each other and how are lives are, and we look forward to the next time we get to see each other, no matter how far away that might be. Our friendship has actually GROWN since I left, because we've both experienced life without seeing each other every week, and we realize how blessed we are to have each other. Rachel, I love you, I love you, I. LOVE. YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I cannot wait to see you in 2 weeks, and I'm SO glad that we will have an ENTIRE day to spend together!!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
It's true what they say, "You never know what you've got until it's gone." and that's how I felt today. Since leaving, I have certainly lost contact with many friends, and that really breaks my heart, but at the same time, I know that the friends I AM keeping contact with are real and true friends. Long distance friendships are definitely very hard, but they also strengthen the relationship between the two of you. In the past 2 years, Rachel and I have become fast friends, whether it was grabbing dinner together, roller skating up to the park, or just worshiping our awesome God together at 8:23 nights, we have learned to love, encourage, and support each other. Our last week in Wheaton, to things happened in our friendship; first, Rachel never left. Literally. She would leave at like 10 o'clock at night every day, and most days she'd be up playing with the boys when I woke up. She wanted to savor every moment she could not only with me, but with our family. The second thing that happened was a lot more subtle, I really believe that the two of us began to prepare ourselves for the worst. We began preparing ourselves for good-bye's, the long months apart, the loneliness, and missing each other, but honestly, we were fools. Nothing has changed about our friendship, we still love, encourage, and support each other, probably more now than when we got to see each other every week. The time we spent together, and the time we get to spend talking to each other has so much more meaning and substance now. We are real with each other and how are lives are, and we look forward to the next time we get to see each other, no matter how far away that might be. Our friendship has actually GROWN since I left, because we've both experienced life without seeing each other every week, and we realize how blessed we are to have each other. Rachel, I love you, I love you, I. LOVE. YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I cannot wait to see you in 2 weeks, and I'm SO glad that we will have an ENTIRE day to spend together!!
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 294-Late Day
(Tuesday)
Hey guys,
Today was a pretty fantastic day. I didn't have to go into work until 12, so I was able to sleep in a bit, work on my schoolwork in the comfort of my own bed, and just take things a little slower. As much as I love being a nanny, it is a LONG day, I am up by 6 at the latest everyday, and a lot of days I won't get home until like 7 or 8. Needless to say, it was nice to have a slow and relaxing morning today!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
Today was a pretty fantastic day. I didn't have to go into work until 12, so I was able to sleep in a bit, work on my schoolwork in the comfort of my own bed, and just take things a little slower. As much as I love being a nanny, it is a LONG day, I am up by 6 at the latest everyday, and a lot of days I won't get home until like 7 or 8. Needless to say, it was nice to have a slow and relaxing morning today!
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 293-Bike Ride
(Monday)
Hey guys,
Today, the weather was absolutely GORGEOUS, but I was inside stressing, as always, about school. As I talked to my friend about what was going on, she encouraged me to take a few hours, put the textbooks down, go outside, and do something I enjoy. I decided to take her up on that, when I got home from work, Dad and I took the little ones to various sports, and I went for a bike ride. It is amazing how much just ONE HOUR of being outside can change how you feel! Seriously, this bike ride was not only the highlight of my day, but it was a reminder that sometimes, you need to stop and smell the roses :)
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
Today, the weather was absolutely GORGEOUS, but I was inside stressing, as always, about school. As I talked to my friend about what was going on, she encouraged me to take a few hours, put the textbooks down, go outside, and do something I enjoy. I decided to take her up on that, when I got home from work, Dad and I took the little ones to various sports, and I went for a bike ride. It is amazing how much just ONE HOUR of being outside can change how you feel! Seriously, this bike ride was not only the highlight of my day, but it was a reminder that sometimes, you need to stop and smell the roses :)
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 292- Talent Show!
(Sunday)
Hey guys,
So, today was kind of a big deal for me. Today I stepped on the stage and performed for the first time since leaving Chicago(except for worship leading, which doesn't really count...)! Also, I was doing a solo, which is very different for me. In my whole life, I have only done ONE other solo, so it was a lot of pressure! Any musician knows that performing as part of a group, and performing as an individual are two COMPLETELY different things. If something goes wrong musically, it is on you. If you do not get the response you want to from an audience, it reflects on YOU and the performance YOU gave. In essence, doing a solo is very, VERY intimidating, so I was freaking out. Because I've been a performer for the vast majority of my life, I very rarely get stage fright, usually when I step on the stage, I am confident and excited. As I sat in the back of the room trying to get some food in me before the show started(I was up FIRST), I was quite literally shaking, I cannot remember being this scared to go on stage, I was terrified. As the minutes crept slowly by, my blood pressure and nerves continued to steadily climb, I wanted nothing more than to run as fast as I could out of the room. The performer side of me however, knew that the show must go on, I need to swallow my nerves, and whatever else is going on, step onto the stage and KILL IT, like I always do. I have had many performances where I probably should NOT have gone out, I've performed in a walking boot, on crutches, with the stomach flu, the list could go on and on. So tonight, as those nerves started peaking, I KNEW that deep down, I am a performer, the stage is where I LOVE to be, and the stage is where I flourish, so I needed to just stop worrying about everything, go out there and have fun. After the show, I was told by so many people how good i did, and it just made me so happy, performing really isn't for everyone, the pressure of the stage can be too much for people sometimes, but I know, when it comes down to it, I AM a performer, and no matter WHAT is going on backstage and before performances, I'm going to walk onto that stage, and give it my all.
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, today was kind of a big deal for me. Today I stepped on the stage and performed for the first time since leaving Chicago(except for worship leading, which doesn't really count...)! Also, I was doing a solo, which is very different for me. In my whole life, I have only done ONE other solo, so it was a lot of pressure! Any musician knows that performing as part of a group, and performing as an individual are two COMPLETELY different things. If something goes wrong musically, it is on you. If you do not get the response you want to from an audience, it reflects on YOU and the performance YOU gave. In essence, doing a solo is very, VERY intimidating, so I was freaking out. Because I've been a performer for the vast majority of my life, I very rarely get stage fright, usually when I step on the stage, I am confident and excited. As I sat in the back of the room trying to get some food in me before the show started(I was up FIRST), I was quite literally shaking, I cannot remember being this scared to go on stage, I was terrified. As the minutes crept slowly by, my blood pressure and nerves continued to steadily climb, I wanted nothing more than to run as fast as I could out of the room. The performer side of me however, knew that the show must go on, I need to swallow my nerves, and whatever else is going on, step onto the stage and KILL IT, like I always do. I have had many performances where I probably should NOT have gone out, I've performed in a walking boot, on crutches, with the stomach flu, the list could go on and on. So tonight, as those nerves started peaking, I KNEW that deep down, I am a performer, the stage is where I LOVE to be, and the stage is where I flourish, so I needed to just stop worrying about everything, go out there and have fun. After the show, I was told by so many people how good i did, and it just made me so happy, performing really isn't for everyone, the pressure of the stage can be too much for people sometimes, but I know, when it comes down to it, I AM a performer, and no matter WHAT is going on backstage and before performances, I'm going to walk onto that stage, and give it my all.
<3 Always,
Rose
Sunday, March 15, 2015
Day 291- And so it begins...
(Saturday)
Hey guys,
Travel soccer season is OFFICIALLY in full swing, which means we have a tournament at LEAST twice a month. Of all the sports the boys play, I'd have to say, I enjoy watching soccer the most, maybe it's just because it's easier for me to understand, maybe it's because Shane's a beast, and that usually makes for an exciting game, I'm not sure, all I know is if there's a soccer tournament, and I DON'T have other things going on, I will be there, no contest. Today was one of the less enjoyable days of soccer, it was cold and rainy pretty much all day, it was also incredibly muddy, and our team was pretty outmatched, so it was a LONG day. However, I did get to see Shane play goalie for the first time this season(they pulled him out 10 minutes later...he's just too short to be a goalie...), he scored a couple nice goals, and he showed us that he was indeed ready for soccer to start again. Lenoir Youth Soccer Academy 2015, LET'S GO!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
Travel soccer season is OFFICIALLY in full swing, which means we have a tournament at LEAST twice a month. Of all the sports the boys play, I'd have to say, I enjoy watching soccer the most, maybe it's just because it's easier for me to understand, maybe it's because Shane's a beast, and that usually makes for an exciting game, I'm not sure, all I know is if there's a soccer tournament, and I DON'T have other things going on, I will be there, no contest. Today was one of the less enjoyable days of soccer, it was cold and rainy pretty much all day, it was also incredibly muddy, and our team was pretty outmatched, so it was a LONG day. However, I did get to see Shane play goalie for the first time this season(they pulled him out 10 minutes later...he's just too short to be a goalie...), he scored a couple nice goals, and he showed us that he was indeed ready for soccer to start again. Lenoir Youth Soccer Academy 2015, LET'S GO!
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 290- No school!
(Friday)
Hey guys,
So, because the woman I nanny for is a teacher, most days that school is off, I don't have to work. Today, however, was a Teachers Institute day, so I had all 3 kids, all day long, AND it was raining! We were able to enjoy our day though, I took them to Bo's to play Lazer Tag, and then the oldest kid decided he wanted to buy everyone(including me, even though I told him I really didn't need it) slushies from Sonic. We spent the afternoon watching a movie and building blanket forts, which they really enjoyed. All in all, I really enjoyed having all 3 kids, even though it was more stressful, it was also more fun!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, because the woman I nanny for is a teacher, most days that school is off, I don't have to work. Today, however, was a Teachers Institute day, so I had all 3 kids, all day long, AND it was raining! We were able to enjoy our day though, I took them to Bo's to play Lazer Tag, and then the oldest kid decided he wanted to buy everyone(including me, even though I told him I really didn't need it) slushies from Sonic. We spent the afternoon watching a movie and building blanket forts, which they really enjoyed. All in all, I really enjoyed having all 3 kids, even though it was more stressful, it was also more fun!
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 289-Come Home
(Thursday)
Hey guys,
So, I don't know if you've caught on yet, but since I've started working, my life is INCREDIBLY busy. Most days, I have to leave the house by 7 at the latest, and I won't get home until 8:30 ish, because most nights I have something going on after work. Today however, and Thursdays from now on, I will get to come HOME after work, and have a good 3 hours to relax before heading out again. I can't tell you how excited I was to come home, to see the boys(most days they're asleep when I leave and asleep when I get home), and talk to my parents more than just "Hi, I'm home...I'm going to bed..."
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, I don't know if you've caught on yet, but since I've started working, my life is INCREDIBLY busy. Most days, I have to leave the house by 7 at the latest, and I won't get home until 8:30 ish, because most nights I have something going on after work. Today however, and Thursdays from now on, I will get to come HOME after work, and have a good 3 hours to relax before heading out again. I can't tell you how excited I was to come home, to see the boys(most days they're asleep when I leave and asleep when I get home), and talk to my parents more than just "Hi, I'm home...I'm going to bed..."
<3 Always,
Rose
Wednesday, March 11, 2015
Day 288-Exploding....
Hey guys,
So, today's happy post is about ONE little girl's quote. Little kids can(and do...) say the darndest things sometimes, and THIS was one of those times. As we sat together at all church dinner tonight, little Aubrey Norris joined our table. Halfway through the meal, she turns to Adrienne and says, "Adrienne, you should eat your potato..." and this sentence spurred on THIS conversation...
Adrienne:"I'm going to, I just have to eat one thing at a time. First, I ate my soup, now I'm eating my salad, and THEN I'll eat my potato. I can't eat two things at the same time."
Aubrey:(Half-laughing)"ADRIENNE!"
Adrienne:"What?! If I eat more than one thing at a time, I might explode...you don't want me to explode, do you?"
Aubrey:"Well...yes...I do...I would like you to explode..."
And everyone that was listening to this conversation just started DYING.
<3 Always,
Rose
So, today's happy post is about ONE little girl's quote. Little kids can(and do...) say the darndest things sometimes, and THIS was one of those times. As we sat together at all church dinner tonight, little Aubrey Norris joined our table. Halfway through the meal, she turns to Adrienne and says, "Adrienne, you should eat your potato..." and this sentence spurred on THIS conversation...
Adrienne:"I'm going to, I just have to eat one thing at a time. First, I ate my soup, now I'm eating my salad, and THEN I'll eat my potato. I can't eat two things at the same time."
Aubrey:(Half-laughing)"ADRIENNE!"
Adrienne:"What?! If I eat more than one thing at a time, I might explode...you don't want me to explode, do you?"
Aubrey:"Well...yes...I do...I would like you to explode..."
And everyone that was listening to this conversation just started DYING.
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 287-Breakfast with Adrienne!
(Tuesday)
Hey guys,
So, I know this gal pops up in my posts quite often, but honestly, nothing picks me up faster than this girl can! Breakfast with her just sets my day off to a pretty fabulous start, and just gives me a LITTLE bit of de-stressing before my day begins. Today, I came in stressed because I had been procrastinating all week, and the deadline for my assignments were right around the corner, but after breakfast with Adrienne, I was able to calm down, and refocus myself. Let's be honest, is it REALLY the end of the world if I don't get an assignment done on time? In the moment, yes, but I need to realize, in the grand scheme of things, it really doesn't...
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, I know this gal pops up in my posts quite often, but honestly, nothing picks me up faster than this girl can! Breakfast with her just sets my day off to a pretty fabulous start, and just gives me a LITTLE bit of de-stressing before my day begins. Today, I came in stressed because I had been procrastinating all week, and the deadline for my assignments were right around the corner, but after breakfast with Adrienne, I was able to calm down, and refocus myself. Let's be honest, is it REALLY the end of the world if I don't get an assignment done on time? In the moment, yes, but I need to realize, in the grand scheme of things, it really doesn't...
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 286- DAY OFF!!!!
(Monday)
Hey guys,
So, when I got a text from my boss on Sunday night saying that I DIDN'T have to get up at 6 AM for work tomorrow, I kid you not, I broke into a happy dance mid-conversation with one of the middle school Mom's in the church parking lot...suffice to say, I NEEDED this break! I so enjoyed getting my schoolwork done at a nice, leisurely pace, and even getting to watch some Monk episodes!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, when I got a text from my boss on Sunday night saying that I DIDN'T have to get up at 6 AM for work tomorrow, I kid you not, I broke into a happy dance mid-conversation with one of the middle school Mom's in the church parking lot...suffice to say, I NEEDED this break! I so enjoyed getting my schoolwork done at a nice, leisurely pace, and even getting to watch some Monk episodes!
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 285-WARMTH!
(Sunday)
Hey guys,
So, while many of you are probably STILL trying to dig your way out of snow, this afternoon here was 70 degrees and sunny, and we went hiking after church...not that I'm gloating or anything...;-) It made me so thankful to be living in a place where there's MAYBE 6 weeks of winter...instead of 6 months...
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, while many of you are probably STILL trying to dig your way out of snow, this afternoon here was 70 degrees and sunny, and we went hiking after church...not that I'm gloating or anything...;-) It made me so thankful to be living in a place where there's MAYBE 6 weeks of winter...instead of 6 months...
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 284- Reunions!
(Saturday)
Hey guys,
So, have you ever made last-minute plans that just seemed SO far-fetched that the stars would have to align for this plan to work? Well, that was me today! Sometimes, last minute plans just work out so simply that you just realize, how lucky am I that that WORKED OUT?! Tonight, I got to have dinner with one of my closest friends from Wheaton as she traveled with some friends down to the coast. It was very unplanned, spontaneous, and a lot shorter than I would have liked it to have been, but it worked out! It was so much fun to catch up with her, and just share a meal together. Though we haven't known each other for very long, we were quickly inseparable, whether it was cuddling together in the awkward chair that's too big to actually be a chair, playing ping pong(which turned into her laughing at my attempts to play...), or just walking around Wheaton campus, we were guaranteed to have a good time! Krista, we've had countless, COUNTLESS laughs together, and so many warm(...and not so warm) afternoons and nights spent on Blanchard Lawn, and I am so grateful for all of them. I am so grateful that you were assigned to be roommates with Rachel, because I probably wouldn't have met you, if it hadn't been for that! I so enjoyed seeing you and talking with you tonight! It was incredibly unreal to have you here in North Carolina, and it took a lot of time to remind myself that; Moving was indeed NOT a dream, and we were NOT back in Wheaton. I love you and miss you already with all my heart!!!! :)
Hey guys,
So, have you ever made last-minute plans that just seemed SO far-fetched that the stars would have to align for this plan to work? Well, that was me today! Sometimes, last minute plans just work out so simply that you just realize, how lucky am I that that WORKED OUT?! Tonight, I got to have dinner with one of my closest friends from Wheaton as she traveled with some friends down to the coast. It was very unplanned, spontaneous, and a lot shorter than I would have liked it to have been, but it worked out! It was so much fun to catch up with her, and just share a meal together. Though we haven't known each other for very long, we were quickly inseparable, whether it was cuddling together in the awkward chair that's too big to actually be a chair, playing ping pong(which turned into her laughing at my attempts to play...), or just walking around Wheaton campus, we were guaranteed to have a good time! Krista, we've had countless, COUNTLESS laughs together, and so many warm(...and not so warm) afternoons and nights spent on Blanchard Lawn, and I am so grateful for all of them. I am so grateful that you were assigned to be roommates with Rachel, because I probably wouldn't have met you, if it hadn't been for that! I so enjoyed seeing you and talking with you tonight! It was incredibly unreal to have you here in North Carolina, and it took a lot of time to remind myself that; Moving was indeed NOT a dream, and we were NOT back in Wheaton. I love you and miss you already with all my heart!!!! :)
Some Pictures....
Apparently 50's in May in Chicago=Sandals and capris....
Gave me a great laugh!
Our reunion <3
<3 Always,
Rose
Friday, March 6, 2015
Day 283-RELAXING!
Hey guys,
So, lucky me, after a very, VERY long week, I had today off! I so enjoyed sleeping late, and just RELAXING. No school, no church events, just me, my bible, piano, and a coffee date with Adrienne, it was a pretty great day! It was definitely nice to have a break from constantly running from one event to the next, having about a million things running through my head, spreading myself very, VERY thin, and constantly being sleep deprived! The problem with me is that I love EVERYTHING that I'm a part of, I couldn't bear to give up any of my events, I enjoy my life being a balancing act, but as exhibited this week, one teeny tiny thing can put everything out of whack and send me spiraling into crazy amounts of stress and anxiety. There's no doubt about it, I am a multi-tasker, but I just need to get better at realizing my own limits, and realizing that it's ok to say no sometimes! Having ADHD, most of my days, my brain is going about a million miles per hour, so the more stuff I have to do, the BETTER I function(...for the most part...). I like to think of it as a treadmill, that's stuck on top speed, as the runner, you just figure that you have to move as fast as the treadmill, but what happens when you get tired? Well, you will probably fall down, looking like a crazed lunatic all the while, and the treadmill continues on.
<3 Always,
Rose
So, lucky me, after a very, VERY long week, I had today off! I so enjoyed sleeping late, and just RELAXING. No school, no church events, just me, my bible, piano, and a coffee date with Adrienne, it was a pretty great day! It was definitely nice to have a break from constantly running from one event to the next, having about a million things running through my head, spreading myself very, VERY thin, and constantly being sleep deprived! The problem with me is that I love EVERYTHING that I'm a part of, I couldn't bear to give up any of my events, I enjoy my life being a balancing act, but as exhibited this week, one teeny tiny thing can put everything out of whack and send me spiraling into crazy amounts of stress and anxiety. There's no doubt about it, I am a multi-tasker, but I just need to get better at realizing my own limits, and realizing that it's ok to say no sometimes! Having ADHD, most of my days, my brain is going about a million miles per hour, so the more stuff I have to do, the BETTER I function(...for the most part...). I like to think of it as a treadmill, that's stuck on top speed, as the runner, you just figure that you have to move as fast as the treadmill, but what happens when you get tired? Well, you will probably fall down, looking like a crazed lunatic all the while, and the treadmill continues on.
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 282-MUSIC!
(Thursday)
Hey guys,
So, after realizing just how much trouble I was in leading worship, I emailed our music director, and he told me, "Let's meet tomorrow morning, we'll figure it out!" Literally 15 minutes later, he showed me just how much I was over complicating things, and how simple it REALLY was. HALLELUJAH! I kid you not, the night before, I was sitting in front of the piano just bawling, feeling so overwhelmed and SO out of my league. Well, by the end of my practice today(ok, so it was a 4 hour practice...but STILL!), a HUGE burden had been lifted, and I was actually enjoying practicing, and realizing, "Wait, I'm actually playing the piano, and it sounds similar to music!" So, I think the moral of the story is, if you feel overwhelmed, ASK FOR HELP!!!! Because if you're anything like me, you're making a mountain out of a molehill, and when you realize that, you will feel SO much better!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, after realizing just how much trouble I was in leading worship, I emailed our music director, and he told me, "Let's meet tomorrow morning, we'll figure it out!" Literally 15 minutes later, he showed me just how much I was over complicating things, and how simple it REALLY was. HALLELUJAH! I kid you not, the night before, I was sitting in front of the piano just bawling, feeling so overwhelmed and SO out of my league. Well, by the end of my practice today(ok, so it was a 4 hour practice...but STILL!), a HUGE burden had been lifted, and I was actually enjoying practicing, and realizing, "Wait, I'm actually playing the piano, and it sounds similar to music!" So, I think the moral of the story is, if you feel overwhelmed, ASK FOR HELP!!!! Because if you're anything like me, you're making a mountain out of a molehill, and when you realize that, you will feel SO much better!
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 281-Friends
(Wednesday)
Hey guys,
So, similar to yesterday, I had another "Good gravy" moment today. You know that horrible moment when you realize that you've bitten off WAY more than you can chew? Yeah...that was me, like all day...Long story short, I am SUPPOSED to be playing piano for church in ONE MONTH after not playing for almost TEN YEARS!!!! Yeah, talk about stress! Anyways, my stress level from about 3-4, to like 5 billion as I received email after email of the songs...and I just about exploded on the spot. Instinctively, I whipped out my phone and texted Adrienne, mid-anxiety attack, and she responds, "Lol you'll do great, and you got a good amount of to practice :-)" As simple as that response to some people, when you have anxiety attacks, logic and reality are quickly replaced by panic and feelings of inadequacy, so a simple text reminding me in that moment that she KNEW I could do it meant the world. I am definitely someone who TRIES to take on the world, but also gets overwhelmed VERY quickly, so there is definitely a moment when I realize just HOW much I've committed to, and freak out, and today was absolutely an example of this. Anyways, it's great to have friends who can reassure me that I CAN do it, when I start flipping out. After work, I went to study with Katie, which was a GREAT way to get my mind off of all the stress happening at once. As we sat in the SYC playground, I was able to just relax, breathe, and know that I'm doing my best, and that's enough!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, similar to yesterday, I had another "Good gravy" moment today. You know that horrible moment when you realize that you've bitten off WAY more than you can chew? Yeah...that was me, like all day...Long story short, I am SUPPOSED to be playing piano for church in ONE MONTH after not playing for almost TEN YEARS!!!! Yeah, talk about stress! Anyways, my stress level from about 3-4, to like 5 billion as I received email after email of the songs...and I just about exploded on the spot. Instinctively, I whipped out my phone and texted Adrienne, mid-anxiety attack, and she responds, "Lol you'll do great, and you got a good amount of to practice :-)" As simple as that response to some people, when you have anxiety attacks, logic and reality are quickly replaced by panic and feelings of inadequacy, so a simple text reminding me in that moment that she KNEW I could do it meant the world. I am definitely someone who TRIES to take on the world, but also gets overwhelmed VERY quickly, so there is definitely a moment when I realize just HOW much I've committed to, and freak out, and today was absolutely an example of this. Anyways, it's great to have friends who can reassure me that I CAN do it, when I start flipping out. After work, I went to study with Katie, which was a GREAT way to get my mind off of all the stress happening at once. As we sat in the SYC playground, I was able to just relax, breathe, and know that I'm doing my best, and that's enough!
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 280- Getting stuff DONE!
(Tuesday)
Hey guys,
So, I'm sure for all of us, there are days when you are simply SHOCKED by the amount of work you get done, and other days....eh, not so much...Well, today was one of those days when I just thought, "Good gravy, I am in trouble...", but amazingly, was able to keep calm, take a few deep breaths, and schedule everything, so it didn't overwhelm me, but more than anything, I actually got EVERYTHING done!!! I was so proud of my concentration today, because normally, it is less than stellar, but today, I was able to sit down, tune everything out, and GET STUFF DONE!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, I'm sure for all of us, there are days when you are simply SHOCKED by the amount of work you get done, and other days....eh, not so much...Well, today was one of those days when I just thought, "Good gravy, I am in trouble...", but amazingly, was able to keep calm, take a few deep breaths, and schedule everything, so it didn't overwhelm me, but more than anything, I actually got EVERYTHING done!!! I was so proud of my concentration today, because normally, it is less than stellar, but today, I was able to sit down, tune everything out, and GET STUFF DONE!
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 279-Norris Girls
Hey guys,
So, I've always wanted to have a little sister, and be able to do girly things with them, instead, I got 3 little brothers...Don't get me wrong, I LOVE being a big sister, but it'd be nice to have the gender balance fixed, just a little bit...Anyways, in the past few months, two little girls have captured my heart, and dubbed themselves "my little sisters". Ansilie and Aubrey are the most adorable little girls, but they're also tomboys(very much like me...), so one minute we might be bouncing on the trampoline, and then the next minute, we're in the house doing make-overs and rocking out to Taylor Swift. I love spending time with these girls, they are so sweet not only to me, but also to each other, which is more than I can say about my sister and I at times...Anyways, I so enjoyed babysitting these girls this afternoon, no matter how tired I was after working since 7, being with these girls re-energized me, and made me smile. How blessed am I, to have the love of two "little sisters" when I want it, yet not have to be driven insane by living in the same house with them? These are the best kinds of sisters...;)
<3 Always,
Rose
So, I've always wanted to have a little sister, and be able to do girly things with them, instead, I got 3 little brothers...Don't get me wrong, I LOVE being a big sister, but it'd be nice to have the gender balance fixed, just a little bit...Anyways, in the past few months, two little girls have captured my heart, and dubbed themselves "my little sisters". Ansilie and Aubrey are the most adorable little girls, but they're also tomboys(very much like me...), so one minute we might be bouncing on the trampoline, and then the next minute, we're in the house doing make-overs and rocking out to Taylor Swift. I love spending time with these girls, they are so sweet not only to me, but also to each other, which is more than I can say about my sister and I at times...Anyways, I so enjoyed babysitting these girls this afternoon, no matter how tired I was after working since 7, being with these girls re-energized me, and made me smile. How blessed am I, to have the love of two "little sisters" when I want it, yet not have to be driven insane by living in the same house with them? These are the best kinds of sisters...;)
<3 Always,
Rose
Sunday, March 1, 2015
Day 278- Feed My Starving West Lenoir Students!
Hey guys,
For those of you who DON'T know, the town we are living in now, Lenoir, is extremely impoverished, and has been hit fairly hard with the moving of production overseas. Lenoir/Hickory use to be well known for their furniture market, but when that all moved overseas, Lenoir was left impoverished. One elementary school in Lenoir is particularly impoverished, and 98% of their students are on the school lunch program. So, what happens when these kids go home for the weekend? Unfortunately, many of them DON'T GET FOOD UNTIL MONDAY!!! So, the teachers and parents at this school, called West Lenoir Elementary, came up with an alternative, once a month, they have groups of people come in and pack 400 lunches for the kids to take home with them on Fridays. It is truly eye-opening to realize that this is happening in MY backyard, kids and families are quite literally STARVING, and if it weren't for this program and others like it, these kids and families might not eat until they return to school. Tonight, 26 of us packed into the church van, and headed over to help pack these lunches, and in one half hour, that is 30 MINUTES, the 26 of us had packed over 400 lunches. It reminded me so much of my middle school days when we would go up to Feed My Starving Children, and I was hit was a crazy wave of nostalgia and all the competitions, screaming, yelling, laughing, and just JOY that happened there. You would think a bunch of bratty middle school girls and boys wouldn't really get much done at a place like this, but the way our youth group did it, was they split up friends and leaders, and pinned them against each other. All the sudden, it became this amazingly intense competition of who could pack more boxes, complete with shouts of victory after filling a box, deciding team names, of course the ever present chant of "CHICKEN--VEGGIE--SOY--RICE" until we were all convinced we would be saying it in our sleep, and just having a blast. I will never remember the ONE afternoon that we went, and we got so into it that as a group, we filled OVER 400 boxes of food. Today was just so humbling to see, while FMSC is GREAT, this is so cool because it's NOT a national organization, it is just people who really truly care about the community, doing what they can to make a difference. Things like this make me so excited, I don't know what it is, maybe it's just my love for helping others, but I just get SO pumped when I'm doing service like this, whether it's funneling rice into bags, or packing lunches, I can't help but smile. I love that our youth group is SUCH a passionate group of people, as leaders, a lot of times we end up taking a little bit of a backseat because the kids are just SO excited to serve others. Tonight was an amazing night for me, and I'd love to go back and do it again. The whole night reminded me of home, and quite honestly it's a miracle that I didn't start chanting "CHICKEN--VEGGIE--SOY--RICE" as we packed these lunches. It just reminded me of how lucky I am, I have a home, a family, and warm meals on the table every evening, I also have a family that from day 1 have taught me the importance of serving and caring for others, which prospered my own passion for others, and taught me to LOVE serving. I love being able to know that because of what our group did tonight, 100 kids will have meals EVERY weekend for the next month, THAT is cool!
<3 Always,
Rose
For those of you who DON'T know, the town we are living in now, Lenoir, is extremely impoverished, and has been hit fairly hard with the moving of production overseas. Lenoir/Hickory use to be well known for their furniture market, but when that all moved overseas, Lenoir was left impoverished. One elementary school in Lenoir is particularly impoverished, and 98% of their students are on the school lunch program. So, what happens when these kids go home for the weekend? Unfortunately, many of them DON'T GET FOOD UNTIL MONDAY!!! So, the teachers and parents at this school, called West Lenoir Elementary, came up with an alternative, once a month, they have groups of people come in and pack 400 lunches for the kids to take home with them on Fridays. It is truly eye-opening to realize that this is happening in MY backyard, kids and families are quite literally STARVING, and if it weren't for this program and others like it, these kids and families might not eat until they return to school. Tonight, 26 of us packed into the church van, and headed over to help pack these lunches, and in one half hour, that is 30 MINUTES, the 26 of us had packed over 400 lunches. It reminded me so much of my middle school days when we would go up to Feed My Starving Children, and I was hit was a crazy wave of nostalgia and all the competitions, screaming, yelling, laughing, and just JOY that happened there. You would think a bunch of bratty middle school girls and boys wouldn't really get much done at a place like this, but the way our youth group did it, was they split up friends and leaders, and pinned them against each other. All the sudden, it became this amazingly intense competition of who could pack more boxes, complete with shouts of victory after filling a box, deciding team names, of course the ever present chant of "CHICKEN--VEGGIE--SOY--RICE" until we were all convinced we would be saying it in our sleep, and just having a blast. I will never remember the ONE afternoon that we went, and we got so into it that as a group, we filled OVER 400 boxes of food. Today was just so humbling to see, while FMSC is GREAT, this is so cool because it's NOT a national organization, it is just people who really truly care about the community, doing what they can to make a difference. Things like this make me so excited, I don't know what it is, maybe it's just my love for helping others, but I just get SO pumped when I'm doing service like this, whether it's funneling rice into bags, or packing lunches, I can't help but smile. I love that our youth group is SUCH a passionate group of people, as leaders, a lot of times we end up taking a little bit of a backseat because the kids are just SO excited to serve others. Tonight was an amazing night for me, and I'd love to go back and do it again. The whole night reminded me of home, and quite honestly it's a miracle that I didn't start chanting "CHICKEN--VEGGIE--SOY--RICE" as we packed these lunches. It just reminded me of how lucky I am, I have a home, a family, and warm meals on the table every evening, I also have a family that from day 1 have taught me the importance of serving and caring for others, which prospered my own passion for others, and taught me to LOVE serving. I love being able to know that because of what our group did tonight, 100 kids will have meals EVERY weekend for the next month, THAT is cool!
<3 Always,
Rose
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