Sunday, April 26th
Hey guys,
Overall, I'd say that family camp was a BLAST! Despite my sleep deprivation and stress of college searching, I was able to put that aside for just a few days, and have fun. I have made so many new friends, little companions, and SO many new memories, whether it's racing through Wal-mart at top speed, or watching from the shore as my friends try to "butt scoot" their canoe across the lake, it was a weekend to remember! I could not ask for a better group of people to spend it with, the body of the First Presbyterian Church is a wonderful, WONDERFUL thing, and I am so glad that I get to be a part of it! This weekend will be one that I will probably come back to time and time again in my life, and I am so grateful and feel so blessed to have taken part in it!
<3 Always,
Rose
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Day 334-Fear Factor
Saturday, April 25th
Hey guys,
Today, I had quite an awesome "proud big sister" moment. Every year at camp, they put together what they call "Fear Factor" where the contestants have to eat a variety of things, including dog food, octopus, wassabi iced oreos, "pig slop", a spoonful of "mayo"(turned out to be pudding), and a slab of butter. Shane, EASILY the pickiest eater of our family volunteered, and was one of the youngest contestants. Shane ended up beating all but one of the other contestants, and tied for first place! That's right, the child who refuses to eat cheese just won a fear factor game, WHAT is the world coming to?!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
Today, I had quite an awesome "proud big sister" moment. Every year at camp, they put together what they call "Fear Factor" where the contestants have to eat a variety of things, including dog food, octopus, wassabi iced oreos, "pig slop", a spoonful of "mayo"(turned out to be pudding), and a slab of butter. Shane, EASILY the pickiest eater of our family volunteered, and was one of the youngest contestants. Shane ended up beating all but one of the other contestants, and tied for first place! That's right, the child who refuses to eat cheese just won a fear factor game, WHAT is the world coming to?!
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 333-Walmart Adventures
Friday, April 24th
Hey guys,
From the college visit in Columbia, we pretty much came home, unpacked, repacked, and headed out again for family camp. Family camp is something that is brought up in the church quite often, and it's something that I've been looking forward to for months now. It is basically a long weekend of "camping"(in cabins) as a church, and just getting to know one another better. Pretty much as soon as we got there, Jae realized that she had forgotten something, and needed to go to Wal-Mart, and me, being the good friend that I am, decided to go with her. As we left the camp, we encountered our first obstacle, essentially, we did not know where we were. The camp is sandwiched between two larger towns, and we just had the hardest time determining what town was closest. Once we finally figured out which town was closest, we realized that the store was a LOT farther than we thought it was, but we did finally make it to the store. As we pulled into the parking lot, Jae just says, "Oh shoot! I don't have my after nines!" If you don't know what that is, it basically means that new drivers are not allowed to drive after 9. The time was 8:38, and the camp was 20 minutes away, doing the math, we realized that we had 2 minutes at the MAX to get in and get back out. We dashed through the store parking lot, and through the aisles(probably looking like complete freaks as we did it...), and made it back to the parking lot, the time was 8:41. We had 19 minutes to make a 20 minute drive. As we sped down the interstate, we both sat on the edge of our seats as we ate our pretzel m&m's(don't ask...), we knew it would be close. Luckily for us, thanks to Jae's driving skills we pulled into the campsite at EXACTLY 8:59, I even took a picture! I don't know about you guys, but that is a pretty epic way to start family camp!!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
From the college visit in Columbia, we pretty much came home, unpacked, repacked, and headed out again for family camp. Family camp is something that is brought up in the church quite often, and it's something that I've been looking forward to for months now. It is basically a long weekend of "camping"(in cabins) as a church, and just getting to know one another better. Pretty much as soon as we got there, Jae realized that she had forgotten something, and needed to go to Wal-Mart, and me, being the good friend that I am, decided to go with her. As we left the camp, we encountered our first obstacle, essentially, we did not know where we were. The camp is sandwiched between two larger towns, and we just had the hardest time determining what town was closest. Once we finally figured out which town was closest, we realized that the store was a LOT farther than we thought it was, but we did finally make it to the store. As we pulled into the parking lot, Jae just says, "Oh shoot! I don't have my after nines!" If you don't know what that is, it basically means that new drivers are not allowed to drive after 9. The time was 8:38, and the camp was 20 minutes away, doing the math, we realized that we had 2 minutes at the MAX to get in and get back out. We dashed through the store parking lot, and through the aisles(probably looking like complete freaks as we did it...), and made it back to the parking lot, the time was 8:41. We had 19 minutes to make a 20 minute drive. As we sped down the interstate, we both sat on the edge of our seats as we ate our pretzel m&m's(don't ask...), we knew it would be close. Luckily for us, thanks to Jae's driving skills we pulled into the campsite at EXACTLY 8:59, I even took a picture! I don't know about you guys, but that is a pretty epic way to start family camp!!
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 332-College visits!
Thursday, April 23rd
Hey guys,
So, today marks the beginning of my insane long weekend adventure...should be fun! We headed off today for South Carolina to visit Columbia College, which at this point is my first choice school. As we arrived on campus, I could just hear the choir bells ringing, and I knew that this is where I belonged. The school is small, like 400 undergrad students small, but that would be just like home for me! My student host was absolutely AMAZING, we got along super well, and she was so kind and welcoming to me. We got to sit in on an Old Testament Survey class, and I REALLY enjoyed it, we had a worship night led by students, AND we played glow in the dark capture the flag. I think it's safe to say that this weekend is off to a great start!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, today marks the beginning of my insane long weekend adventure...should be fun! We headed off today for South Carolina to visit Columbia College, which at this point is my first choice school. As we arrived on campus, I could just hear the choir bells ringing, and I knew that this is where I belonged. The school is small, like 400 undergrad students small, but that would be just like home for me! My student host was absolutely AMAZING, we got along super well, and she was so kind and welcoming to me. We got to sit in on an Old Testament Survey class, and I REALLY enjoyed it, we had a worship night led by students, AND we played glow in the dark capture the flag. I think it's safe to say that this weekend is off to a great start!
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 331-Meds?
Wednesday, April 23rd
Hey guys,
So, today was definitely one of those days where you have to search to find a silver lining. I had been having trouble breathing for 2 days, and I knew with the weekend I was about to have, it could easily get worse, and then we wouldn't be able to do much. So, this morning I got to urgent care at EXACTLY 8:00 when the doors opened, only to find that 50 others had that same idea. 3 and a half hours later, I FINALLY was seen by a doctor, who basically told me what I already knew, I had bad allergies. However, she DID prescribe me some medicine that she believed would help, so I guess that's the silver lining? I'm glad that it's not more serious, and I'm glad I have medicine to be feeling better soon, but I could have easily spent 3 and a half hours doing more productive things!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, today was definitely one of those days where you have to search to find a silver lining. I had been having trouble breathing for 2 days, and I knew with the weekend I was about to have, it could easily get worse, and then we wouldn't be able to do much. So, this morning I got to urgent care at EXACTLY 8:00 when the doors opened, only to find that 50 others had that same idea. 3 and a half hours later, I FINALLY was seen by a doctor, who basically told me what I already knew, I had bad allergies. However, she DID prescribe me some medicine that she believed would help, so I guess that's the silver lining? I'm glad that it's not more serious, and I'm glad I have medicine to be feeling better soon, but I could have easily spent 3 and a half hours doing more productive things!
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 330-Good weather!
Tuesday, April 21st
Hey guys,
So, today was a glorious day. It was sunny and warm, flowers blooming everywhere, and it was a great reminder that summer IS right around the corner. I got to enjoy playing outside with Alora instead of being cooped up inside, and I think it was just what we both needed.
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, today was a glorious day. It was sunny and warm, flowers blooming everywhere, and it was a great reminder that summer IS right around the corner. I got to enjoy playing outside with Alora instead of being cooped up inside, and I think it was just what we both needed.
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 329-My year
Monday, April 20th
Hey guys,
So, this week is going to be CRAZY busy, and much more busy than normal, but this week also marks year anniversary of when we first came down to look at houses. As I go into this insane week, what a great reminder it is to look back at this past year and see just how many times God has provided for us, over and over again. I know that no matter HOW stressful or busy, or frustrating, or scary life can be, God is already there, and carrying us all through it.
<3 Always,
Rose
Sunday, April 19, 2015
Day 328-Marina
Sunday, April 19th
Hey guys,
I've got to be honest, this is probably going to be one of my more emotional posts, so get ready. In my life, for as long as I can remember, Marina has been there. Marina wasn't just a family friend, she wasn't just Graham's friend, she wasn't even just MY friend, she is like my 2nd older sister. Our families grew up spending time together, they lived just 3 blocks away, and had 2 girls, the same ages as Graham and Caroline. We spent every Christmas and New Years Eve together, we've had countless barbecues and birthday parties, we've had camping trips and sleep overs, we've played HUNDREDS of games of Spaceopoly, we've had secrets and stories, we've had countless home video footage, and above all, we've just had each other. When we were little, it was always Caroline and Marina's older sister Adrianna, and then Graham and Marina, and I would just sort of tag along behind them, but as we got older, Marina and I became closer. When she left for college, none of us had any idea what was in store for us in the next few months, we only knew that we wouldn't live 3 blocks away from each other anymore, and that was emotional enough! When Graham was in the hospital, we all gathered around his bed, but there was a hole that could only be filled by Marina. Because Marina was already having a hard time in her freshman year, Aunt Gina decided that it would be better to fly down there and tell her in person what was going on, and bring her back for the funeral. Because of this, literally the first time I saw Marina in 6 months was at the funeral, when we saw each other, we both just broke down and ran towards each other. As we sat there crying, it dawned on me, Caroline and I were NOT the only sisters that Graham had had, and they were grieving their brother just as much as we were. As two years passed, we grew even closer, and savored every moment we had together.
Early this week, I got news that Marina, who is studying overseas in Ecuador not only is being treated for strep throat, but now she has mono as well. This week has been so hard, she has been constantly on my mind, and I wish more than anything that I could go see her and comfort her. I already was missing her tons, but this week has just put a new spin on things, it breaks my heart to know that she is really, REALLY struggling right now, and there's not much I can do other than pray. It's bad enough to have mono, but to have mono in a foreign country with 2 months left before coming home? I can't even imagine. With all the crap this girl has been through, it really doesn't seem fair, but that's life sometimes, unfortunately. It has been hard for me this week, because I have to just let go and trust that God will have his way in this crappy situation, I just have to pray. I would so appreciate your prayers for Marina, whether you know her or not, she needs it. Please pray for peace for not only her family, but also for our family as she is overseas, pray for wisdom for the doctors and nurses treating her, pray for comfort and peace for her, and above all, just pray for healing. Thanks so much!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
I've got to be honest, this is probably going to be one of my more emotional posts, so get ready. In my life, for as long as I can remember, Marina has been there. Marina wasn't just a family friend, she wasn't just Graham's friend, she wasn't even just MY friend, she is like my 2nd older sister. Our families grew up spending time together, they lived just 3 blocks away, and had 2 girls, the same ages as Graham and Caroline. We spent every Christmas and New Years Eve together, we've had countless barbecues and birthday parties, we've had camping trips and sleep overs, we've played HUNDREDS of games of Spaceopoly, we've had secrets and stories, we've had countless home video footage, and above all, we've just had each other. When we were little, it was always Caroline and Marina's older sister Adrianna, and then Graham and Marina, and I would just sort of tag along behind them, but as we got older, Marina and I became closer. When she left for college, none of us had any idea what was in store for us in the next few months, we only knew that we wouldn't live 3 blocks away from each other anymore, and that was emotional enough! When Graham was in the hospital, we all gathered around his bed, but there was a hole that could only be filled by Marina. Because Marina was already having a hard time in her freshman year, Aunt Gina decided that it would be better to fly down there and tell her in person what was going on, and bring her back for the funeral. Because of this, literally the first time I saw Marina in 6 months was at the funeral, when we saw each other, we both just broke down and ran towards each other. As we sat there crying, it dawned on me, Caroline and I were NOT the only sisters that Graham had had, and they were grieving their brother just as much as we were. As two years passed, we grew even closer, and savored every moment we had together.
Early this week, I got news that Marina, who is studying overseas in Ecuador not only is being treated for strep throat, but now she has mono as well. This week has been so hard, she has been constantly on my mind, and I wish more than anything that I could go see her and comfort her. I already was missing her tons, but this week has just put a new spin on things, it breaks my heart to know that she is really, REALLY struggling right now, and there's not much I can do other than pray. It's bad enough to have mono, but to have mono in a foreign country with 2 months left before coming home? I can't even imagine. With all the crap this girl has been through, it really doesn't seem fair, but that's life sometimes, unfortunately. It has been hard for me this week, because I have to just let go and trust that God will have his way in this crappy situation, I just have to pray. I would so appreciate your prayers for Marina, whether you know her or not, she needs it. Please pray for peace for not only her family, but also for our family as she is overseas, pray for wisdom for the doctors and nurses treating her, pray for comfort and peace for her, and above all, just pray for healing. Thanks so much!
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 327-No Boys!
Saturday, April 18th
Hey guys,
So, this weekend Shane had a soccer tournament in Greensboro, ALL weekend, so the 3 boys and Dad were gone from Saturday afternoon to Sunday afternoon. It was so nice to have peace and quiet, to have a CALM couple of days, and above all, to have time for just us girls. With a family as big as mine, you've gotta be loud to be heard, either that, or you'll just kind of fade into the background, so it was SO nice for me to have a time with JUST Mom. She and I could actually talk without being interrupted by small children, or dogs, or Dads, or sports events, or whatever, her attention was on me, and mine was on her!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, this weekend Shane had a soccer tournament in Greensboro, ALL weekend, so the 3 boys and Dad were gone from Saturday afternoon to Sunday afternoon. It was so nice to have peace and quiet, to have a CALM couple of days, and above all, to have time for just us girls. With a family as big as mine, you've gotta be loud to be heard, either that, or you'll just kind of fade into the background, so it was SO nice for me to have a time with JUST Mom. She and I could actually talk without being interrupted by small children, or dogs, or Dads, or sports events, or whatever, her attention was on me, and mine was on her!
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 326-1947 Dance
Friday, April 17th
Hey guys,
So, when you see an old picture of people enjoying coca cola with the old fashioned bottle, you are able to get a glimpse into what our grandparents and maybe even parents experienced growing up. For one girl in our youth group, she looked at this picture and saw SO much more, and she turned it into a reality. For months, we had heard about this "1947 Dance" and didn't really know what to think, or what it would be, because Jae, the mastermind behind it, was still formulating ideas. As the dance got closer, ideas started falling into place, and the night began to take shape, it would be a fundraiser for our missions trip this year, a night of swing dancing, hors d'oeuvre, and even a photo booth. At this point, I'm pretty sure ALL the girls got super excited, and wanted to do anything and everything to help this night happen, and we couldn't have done it without all of their willingness to help! As I walked into the fellowship hall this afternoon, with only hours before the dance, I was awestruck, there were fairy lights and flowers hanging from the ceiling, antique radios and other antique decorations, Coca Cola bottles(of course), and I just instantly thought, "Alright, when I get married, Jae is going to be my wedding planner!" But the shock wore off pretty quickly when I realized just how much still needed to be done in the next few hours. The next few hours of decorating and running around like chickens with our heads cut off really showed to me how much these students will and want to support their fellow students in every thing they do. Everyone was working quite literally until there were people standing at the door. All in all, tonight was a HIT! So many people came and enjoyed it, I've been hearing from people all weekend how much fun they had. In all honesty though, this night would have NEVER happened had it not been for Jae, and her interpretation of an antique photo of people enjoying a coca cola, so I want to say thanks. Thanks for putting this all together, for the many MANY hours you spent planning, decorating, and stressing I'm sure over this one night, thanks for taking things into your own hands when you had this idea! Also, I want to say, you did an AWESOME job tonight, the hours of preparation for this night really showed, and it was outstanding. You decorated, cooked, shopped, set up tables, set up the photo booth, gave us each specific jobs and responsibilities, advertised, organized, AND got all the high school students who came to help to dress up, which is pretty impressive, so seriously, a job WELL DONE tonight, I honestly am in AWE of how much you did and how well you did it tonight!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, when you see an old picture of people enjoying coca cola with the old fashioned bottle, you are able to get a glimpse into what our grandparents and maybe even parents experienced growing up. For one girl in our youth group, she looked at this picture and saw SO much more, and she turned it into a reality. For months, we had heard about this "1947 Dance" and didn't really know what to think, or what it would be, because Jae, the mastermind behind it, was still formulating ideas. As the dance got closer, ideas started falling into place, and the night began to take shape, it would be a fundraiser for our missions trip this year, a night of swing dancing, hors d'oeuvre, and even a photo booth. At this point, I'm pretty sure ALL the girls got super excited, and wanted to do anything and everything to help this night happen, and we couldn't have done it without all of their willingness to help! As I walked into the fellowship hall this afternoon, with only hours before the dance, I was awestruck, there were fairy lights and flowers hanging from the ceiling, antique radios and other antique decorations, Coca Cola bottles(of course), and I just instantly thought, "Alright, when I get married, Jae is going to be my wedding planner!" But the shock wore off pretty quickly when I realized just how much still needed to be done in the next few hours. The next few hours of decorating and running around like chickens with our heads cut off really showed to me how much these students will and want to support their fellow students in every thing they do. Everyone was working quite literally until there were people standing at the door. All in all, tonight was a HIT! So many people came and enjoyed it, I've been hearing from people all weekend how much fun they had. In all honesty though, this night would have NEVER happened had it not been for Jae, and her interpretation of an antique photo of people enjoying a coca cola, so I want to say thanks. Thanks for putting this all together, for the many MANY hours you spent planning, decorating, and stressing I'm sure over this one night, thanks for taking things into your own hands when you had this idea! Also, I want to say, you did an AWESOME job tonight, the hours of preparation for this night really showed, and it was outstanding. You decorated, cooked, shopped, set up tables, set up the photo booth, gave us each specific jobs and responsibilities, advertised, organized, AND got all the high school students who came to help to dress up, which is pretty impressive, so seriously, a job WELL DONE tonight, I honestly am in AWE of how much you did and how well you did it tonight!
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 325- Bible Study
Thursday, April 16th
Hey guys,
For the past few months, Thursday's have been a day that I ALWAYS look forward to. Why? Because that's when our bible study meets. I have so enjoyed getting to know each of the girls on a much more personal level, and I love hearing about what's going on in their lives, how their week has been, etc. Today was the first bible study since I left for Chicago, so I was VERY excited to see my girls. Unfortunately, the praise band had rehearsals at the same time, so I only got to be there for half of it. For me, this is the first bible study that I have really and genuinely been a part of, and the past few months have been such a great reminder that bible studies ARE necessary, accountability groups ARE necessary, and community IS necessary! God did not make us to be alone, independent from other humans, no God made us to be a body that craves human interaction, for survival, for comfort, for wisdom, for basically everything, we NEED community!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
For the past few months, Thursday's have been a day that I ALWAYS look forward to. Why? Because that's when our bible study meets. I have so enjoyed getting to know each of the girls on a much more personal level, and I love hearing about what's going on in their lives, how their week has been, etc. Today was the first bible study since I left for Chicago, so I was VERY excited to see my girls. Unfortunately, the praise band had rehearsals at the same time, so I only got to be there for half of it. For me, this is the first bible study that I have really and genuinely been a part of, and the past few months have been such a great reminder that bible studies ARE necessary, accountability groups ARE necessary, and community IS necessary! God did not make us to be alone, independent from other humans, no God made us to be a body that craves human interaction, for survival, for comfort, for wisdom, for basically everything, we NEED community!
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 324-OFF!
Wednesday, April 15th
Hey guys!
So, today Alora had a school field trip, and Mom had signed up to go a few weeks in advance, so I got to have the day off! After a crazy busy spring break, and then coming back and realizing that my college had a different spring break than I originally had thought, and I was a week behind in all my assignments, I was glad to have this day to try and catch up a little bit.
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys!
So, today Alora had a school field trip, and Mom had signed up to go a few weeks in advance, so I got to have the day off! After a crazy busy spring break, and then coming back and realizing that my college had a different spring break than I originally had thought, and I was a week behind in all my assignments, I was glad to have this day to try and catch up a little bit.
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 323-Preview Day
Tuesday, April 14th
Hey guys,
As many of you know, right now my options for the fall are fairly limited, basically either go to Columbia International University, in South Carolina, or go to Community College. Having this past week be a little bit more calm, and less fast paced has really allowed me to think and pray long and hard about next year, and to just wrap my mind around this idea that whatever happens, I'm going to SOME college next year, and it WILL be God's will for me. The more I thought about it, the more I really felt like God is leading me to Columbia, though it will be a HUGE leap of faith financially to send me to college, I truly feel in my heart that it IS what I'm being called to do next year. As I talked with my parents about it, of course, they were much more hesitant, and more realistic about the fact that I WILL be leaving college with close to 80 thousand dollars in debt, and just trying to help me realize and understand just how much that is. Coming home, it was definitely a bit discouraging, that my parents didn't necessarily feel the same way that I did about college, but I knew that the next step for us AS A FAMILY would be to visit it. So, this morning, I called up my admissions counselor and registered for a preview day there for April 23rd-24th, complete with an overnight host, attending a few classes, learning more about financial aid, and just being on campus. Though it may not be quite as big of a step as I would like, it IS a step towards making a final decision, and I am so excited to make that final decision. I have a feeling that this weekend for us will be pretty "make it or break it", in the past few months, God has provided, but in his time, and in his perfect way. For instance my job, I spent six MONTHS looking for a job in Lenoir, with very little success, but I sent this lady one email asking her about her need for a nanny, and just one week later, I started! So I know that God is going to use this weekend to show me and my parents just a little bit of what he has in store for me, and what my next move should be.
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
As many of you know, right now my options for the fall are fairly limited, basically either go to Columbia International University, in South Carolina, or go to Community College. Having this past week be a little bit more calm, and less fast paced has really allowed me to think and pray long and hard about next year, and to just wrap my mind around this idea that whatever happens, I'm going to SOME college next year, and it WILL be God's will for me. The more I thought about it, the more I really felt like God is leading me to Columbia, though it will be a HUGE leap of faith financially to send me to college, I truly feel in my heart that it IS what I'm being called to do next year. As I talked with my parents about it, of course, they were much more hesitant, and more realistic about the fact that I WILL be leaving college with close to 80 thousand dollars in debt, and just trying to help me realize and understand just how much that is. Coming home, it was definitely a bit discouraging, that my parents didn't necessarily feel the same way that I did about college, but I knew that the next step for us AS A FAMILY would be to visit it. So, this morning, I called up my admissions counselor and registered for a preview day there for April 23rd-24th, complete with an overnight host, attending a few classes, learning more about financial aid, and just being on campus. Though it may not be quite as big of a step as I would like, it IS a step towards making a final decision, and I am so excited to make that final decision. I have a feeling that this weekend for us will be pretty "make it or break it", in the past few months, God has provided, but in his time, and in his perfect way. For instance my job, I spent six MONTHS looking for a job in Lenoir, with very little success, but I sent this lady one email asking her about her need for a nanny, and just one week later, I started! So I know that God is going to use this weekend to show me and my parents just a little bit of what he has in store for me, and what my next move should be.
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 322-Back to Work
Monday, April 13th
Hey guys,
So, as much as I LOVED my Spring Break, seeing my friends, and just having a week off from most of my regular responsibilities, I've gotta be honest, I missed my little chickadee that I'm used to spending all day every day with. I was actually looking FORWARD to going to work today, even if it meant I had to get up at 6, and it means a LOT more stress for me. As much as she drives me crazy, and frustrates me to no end with her attitude and stubborn personality, she is really a wonderful kid, and I SO enjoy watching her every day!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, as much as I LOVED my Spring Break, seeing my friends, and just having a week off from most of my regular responsibilities, I've gotta be honest, I missed my little chickadee that I'm used to spending all day every day with. I was actually looking FORWARD to going to work today, even if it meant I had to get up at 6, and it means a LOT more stress for me. As much as she drives me crazy, and frustrates me to no end with her attitude and stubborn personality, she is really a wonderful kid, and I SO enjoy watching her every day!
<3 Always,
Rose
Sunday, April 12, 2015
Day 321-The Little Shelter
Hey guys,
I knew from the get-go that coming back from Chicago would be hard, it always is. Here's what I didn't realize though, because I HAVE adapted very well here, a part of me is already viewing Lenoir as home! So, I have homesickness, but then I realize that to a certain extent, Lenoir is my home...which got me super confused. So, as I do with just about everything that confuses me, I decided to write about it, and here's what I came up with. Again, this is me, and MY OPINION, I don't want to offend anyone!
Home. What is it? Where is it? Who is it? For me, home is where I KNOW I belong. Home is filled with laughter and love. Home is where the people and places you love combine into one, big, beautiful mess. Home is where your heart is, but it's also so much more than that. Home is where your happy can be found, where walking down the streets brings memories flooding back. Home can penetrate even the darkest of days, to bring a smile to your face. When life pulls you every which way, home is always there, like an anchor holding a ship steady against every crashing wave. Home is holding hands around the table before every meal. When you have ventured out too far, afraid that you can't make it on your own, home will always be there. Home is NOT a place, or a thing, home is the little shelter you've made for yourself in your heart. Where you have worked so hard to store all your memories good or bad, people you love, all the places you've been, and all the life-changing experiences that make you who you are. Though you may have a specific area that you think of as "home", the truth is that home is with you where ever you go. Home is your childhood stored in your heart, along with everything else, big or small, that work together to make you who you are. Whether people, places, things, memories, music, or emotions, they are all stored up in the little shelter in your heart called home. Home is like the wind, some days it's so strong it whisks you off your feet with a single blow, yet other days, it seems like it's barely even there at all. Some days, you long for it with all of your being, yet on other days, you wish it would just go away. Home is a wonderful thing, though it's different for each and every one of us, we all share a deep love and appreciation for our home. Though your "home" of the world might RESEMBLE the home in your heart, the one is your heart is so much more special and valuable. Why, you ask? Jesus lives in our homes in our hearts as Christians, and he safeguards it against the pain, stress, and anger that life tries to throw at us. Jesus knows our home inside and out, and therefore, he knows us far better than any friend ever could.
<3 Always,
Rose
I knew from the get-go that coming back from Chicago would be hard, it always is. Here's what I didn't realize though, because I HAVE adapted very well here, a part of me is already viewing Lenoir as home! So, I have homesickness, but then I realize that to a certain extent, Lenoir is my home...which got me super confused. So, as I do with just about everything that confuses me, I decided to write about it, and here's what I came up with. Again, this is me, and MY OPINION, I don't want to offend anyone!
Home. What is it? Where is it? Who is it? For me, home is where I KNOW I belong. Home is filled with laughter and love. Home is where the people and places you love combine into one, big, beautiful mess. Home is where your heart is, but it's also so much more than that. Home is where your happy can be found, where walking down the streets brings memories flooding back. Home can penetrate even the darkest of days, to bring a smile to your face. When life pulls you every which way, home is always there, like an anchor holding a ship steady against every crashing wave. Home is holding hands around the table before every meal. When you have ventured out too far, afraid that you can't make it on your own, home will always be there. Home is NOT a place, or a thing, home is the little shelter you've made for yourself in your heart. Where you have worked so hard to store all your memories good or bad, people you love, all the places you've been, and all the life-changing experiences that make you who you are. Though you may have a specific area that you think of as "home", the truth is that home is with you where ever you go. Home is your childhood stored in your heart, along with everything else, big or small, that work together to make you who you are. Whether people, places, things, memories, music, or emotions, they are all stored up in the little shelter in your heart called home. Home is like the wind, some days it's so strong it whisks you off your feet with a single blow, yet other days, it seems like it's barely even there at all. Some days, you long for it with all of your being, yet on other days, you wish it would just go away. Home is a wonderful thing, though it's different for each and every one of us, we all share a deep love and appreciation for our home. Though your "home" of the world might RESEMBLE the home in your heart, the one is your heart is so much more special and valuable. Why, you ask? Jesus lives in our homes in our hearts as Christians, and he safeguards it against the pain, stress, and anger that life tries to throw at us. Jesus knows our home inside and out, and therefore, he knows us far better than any friend ever could.
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 320-The Fantastic Foursome!
Saturday, April 11
Hey guys,
So, I like to think that there is a little bit of a "four muskateers" thing going on in our youth group, and I love it! Because we are the only ones who consistently come to bible study, and the only other consistent person goes to another church, the four of us have a little bit of a deeper connection than I do with the rest of the group. Especially lately with Katie, like if she sits somewhere, it's basically assumed that I'll be on one side of her...Anyways, the foursome consists of Katie, Patricia, Adrienne, and me, and I love it SOO much! This was the first time since I left that we were ALL together, so it was really great to be all together again, and for me to return to "normalcy"(or what passes for normal around here...)
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, I like to think that there is a little bit of a "four muskateers" thing going on in our youth group, and I love it! Because we are the only ones who consistently come to bible study, and the only other consistent person goes to another church, the four of us have a little bit of a deeper connection than I do with the rest of the group. Especially lately with Katie, like if she sits somewhere, it's basically assumed that I'll be on one side of her...Anyways, the foursome consists of Katie, Patricia, Adrienne, and me, and I love it SOO much! This was the first time since I left that we were ALL together, so it was really great to be all together again, and for me to return to "normalcy"(or what passes for normal around here...)
<3 Always,
Rose
Friday, April 10, 2015
Day 319-Cinderella
Friday, April 10th
Hey guys,
If ANY of you girls have not seen Cinderella, go do it. Like seriously, stop everything you're doing right now, get in the car, drive to the theater, and SEE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Even if you don't have little girls, that's ok, you should still see it. This movie is the epitome of what every girl anywhere needs to be told, and it warmed my heart to see it being portrayed so well tonight. One of the main themes of the movie is simply, "Have courage, be kind." That's it, simple and clean. Because when it comes down to it, no matter what you look like, no matter how much money you have, no matter how good you are in school, no matter WHAT, kindness will always shine through. One of my favorite moments of the entire movie is when Cinderella comes down the stair case in her servants clothes, or whatever you would like to call them, and sees her prince in the living room waiting for her. Throughout the movie, the Prince assumes that Cinderella is some mystery princess, so as she comes down the stairs, he realizes that she is indeed NOT a princess. Cinderella looks at the glass slipper in the Prince's hand, and then up at the prince and says, "I'm not sure if this slipper will fit me, but if it does, will you take me as I am; an honest country girl?" And the Prince looks back at her and says, "Of course." BAM! That right there is SO important, and SO missing from our society nowadays, so I LOVE the message not only in this scene, but throughout the entire movie, you don't have to try to show your heart, you just have to take off the makeup that covers it up.
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
If ANY of you girls have not seen Cinderella, go do it. Like seriously, stop everything you're doing right now, get in the car, drive to the theater, and SEE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Even if you don't have little girls, that's ok, you should still see it. This movie is the epitome of what every girl anywhere needs to be told, and it warmed my heart to see it being portrayed so well tonight. One of the main themes of the movie is simply, "Have courage, be kind." That's it, simple and clean. Because when it comes down to it, no matter what you look like, no matter how much money you have, no matter how good you are in school, no matter WHAT, kindness will always shine through. One of my favorite moments of the entire movie is when Cinderella comes down the stair case in her servants clothes, or whatever you would like to call them, and sees her prince in the living room waiting for her. Throughout the movie, the Prince assumes that Cinderella is some mystery princess, so as she comes down the stairs, he realizes that she is indeed NOT a princess. Cinderella looks at the glass slipper in the Prince's hand, and then up at the prince and says, "I'm not sure if this slipper will fit me, but if it does, will you take me as I am; an honest country girl?" And the Prince looks back at her and says, "Of course." BAM! That right there is SO important, and SO missing from our society nowadays, so I LOVE the message not only in this scene, but throughout the entire movie, you don't have to try to show your heart, you just have to take off the makeup that covers it up.
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 318-Sister Day
Thursday, April 9th
Hey guys,
So, as I try to recharge a little bit from my crazy week packed with emotions, reunions, hiking, and just plain fun, I decided to leave today open. As someone who is ALWAYS looking for something to do, that was definitely a struggle for me today, but it was also good. Sometimes it is good to just sit, and be still, and I think I still need to get better at realizing that. So, instead of waking up with a list of things I HAVE to do today, or places I HAVE to be, or people I HAVE to meet, I woke up with the idea of what do I want to do today, what do I want to spend my time doing? And the answer came from two small voices outside my window...As much as the boys can drive me CRAZY sometimes, I really do LOVE being a sister, I LOVE being involved in their lives. So, I spent the day today with them, just basking in the present moment.
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, as I try to recharge a little bit from my crazy week packed with emotions, reunions, hiking, and just plain fun, I decided to leave today open. As someone who is ALWAYS looking for something to do, that was definitely a struggle for me today, but it was also good. Sometimes it is good to just sit, and be still, and I think I still need to get better at realizing that. So, instead of waking up with a list of things I HAVE to do today, or places I HAVE to be, or people I HAVE to meet, I woke up with the idea of what do I want to do today, what do I want to spend my time doing? And the answer came from two small voices outside my window...As much as the boys can drive me CRAZY sometimes, I really do LOVE being a sister, I LOVE being involved in their lives. So, I spent the day today with them, just basking in the present moment.
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 317-Goodbyes and Hellos
Wednesday, April 8th
Hey guys,
So, I don't know about you, but I STRUGGLE with goodbyes, they seriously suck. I don't know if it's because I just get so attached to my friends or what, but goodbyes for me are never, ever easy. Today, we embarked on our journey home, which meant that I would have to say my final goodbyes to Wheaton until my next visit, and that's never easy. For me, Wheaton is the place where ALL my closest friends are, the friends that have grown up with me, watched me struggle, held my hand through hardship, and were always there to lend a hand, to listen, to help, or just to hug me, and tell me that everything would be okay. As I sat in the church Sunday night, it struck me, this is going to be the last time I'm here for a while, as I looked around the room, there were so many memories, of childrens choir rehearsals, of meals shared together, of leading kids camp, of bible studies and Sunday Schools, of being bombarded with people as I walked down after being baptized, and for me, the most powerful memory was that of the endless line of people, quite literally winding out the door and up the stairs, of people in shock and sadness, waiting for their turn to comfort my family. I couldn't help but tear up as these thoughts and memories swirled around in my head, so much of my life had been spent in that ONE room of ONE building. At that moment, my phone buzzed, it was Katie telling me how strange it was that she was looking around the room for me that morning, and I wasn't there. At that point, something clicked for me, I realized that while many memories have been made in Wheaton, and while I leave many people who are so dear to me, I also get to see my friends back home, my friends who I also love dearly, and even better than that, I get to make new memories in this new place, and that makes me excited. So, although today is a sad day of goodbyes for me, I know that right around the corner is a chance to say hello to my friends here, and hello to new adventures that my life might have.
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, I don't know about you, but I STRUGGLE with goodbyes, they seriously suck. I don't know if it's because I just get so attached to my friends or what, but goodbyes for me are never, ever easy. Today, we embarked on our journey home, which meant that I would have to say my final goodbyes to Wheaton until my next visit, and that's never easy. For me, Wheaton is the place where ALL my closest friends are, the friends that have grown up with me, watched me struggle, held my hand through hardship, and were always there to lend a hand, to listen, to help, or just to hug me, and tell me that everything would be okay. As I sat in the church Sunday night, it struck me, this is going to be the last time I'm here for a while, as I looked around the room, there were so many memories, of childrens choir rehearsals, of meals shared together, of leading kids camp, of bible studies and Sunday Schools, of being bombarded with people as I walked down after being baptized, and for me, the most powerful memory was that of the endless line of people, quite literally winding out the door and up the stairs, of people in shock and sadness, waiting for their turn to comfort my family. I couldn't help but tear up as these thoughts and memories swirled around in my head, so much of my life had been spent in that ONE room of ONE building. At that moment, my phone buzzed, it was Katie telling me how strange it was that she was looking around the room for me that morning, and I wasn't there. At that point, something clicked for me, I realized that while many memories have been made in Wheaton, and while I leave many people who are so dear to me, I also get to see my friends back home, my friends who I also love dearly, and even better than that, I get to make new memories in this new place, and that makes me excited. So, although today is a sad day of goodbyes for me, I know that right around the corner is a chance to say hello to my friends here, and hello to new adventures that my life might have.
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 316-Emily Squared
Tuesday, April 7th
Hey guys,
I think it's interesting how quickly I form a connection with people. For these two girls, I have only known them for about 2 years, but at the same time, I can't imagine NOT having them in my life. In two years, I have grown so close to both of these girls, but in two completely different situations.
I'll start with Emily Lengal first, mainly because I met her first. Emily and my friendship blossomed out of tragedy and great loss for both of us, while I was grieving the loss of my brother, she was grieving the loss of her boyfriend of two days. Read that sentence again, TWO. DAYS. 48 HOURS! Literally the first time they held hands was in the hospital. From the get go, we were sort of drawn to each other, at the hospital we would do whatever we could to go in together to see him. At the funeral, she sat next to me, as a member of our "extended family" and was my rock for that day, and for the days to come. As time went on, our friendship blossomed, she became my life line of sorts, I knew that whatever I was dealing with in my life, I could come and talk to her about it, and she would do her best to help. The first summer she went home, it was very hard for both of us to say goodbye, but throughout the summer, we kept each other informed on what was going on in our lives, and supported each other in prayer. I remember one particular instance that REALLY opened my eyes to just how much Emily cares about me, as I was off at the Life Student Conference, a week that I KNEW going in would NOT be an easy week for me, she was in Pennsylvania, her home, supporting me in prayer. As she was counseling at summer camp, she could not shake the worry and heartbreak she had for me that week, so when her best friend asked her what was bothering her, she just broke down. She told her all about me, and where I was that week, and how hard it was going to be for me, and together, they sat there and prayed for me. How cool is THAT?! Anyways, that is only the beginning of our wonderful friendship, and I am so excited to see where the Lord decides to take this friendship.
Then, there is Emily Trowbridge. She and I met in the fall of my Senior year, she was a freshman at Wheaton, interested in helping with the high school ministry at our church. In that time in my life, I was really struggling, I was in a pretty severe depression, my friends did all that they could to try and help me, but they just couldn't understand what I was feeling and going through. I had basically dug myself a trench, protecting myself from the chaos and hurt and fear of life, while also dwelling on the sadness that consumed me. Emily did more than just try to help, Emily climbed into that trench with me, and fought the battles of life alongside me that year. When we met, we instantly realized that we have a LOT in common, we are very similar personality wise, we both love to laugh and have fun, we both love music, we even grew up in the same neighborhood and didn't even know it! Despite these many similarities that certainly HELPED to build our relationship, I think was really brought us together was that she, too had lost someone, she KNEW what I was going through. As Emily and I grew closer throughout the year, I began to consider baptism more seriously, knowing that not only was it my last year here, but also, there had been tremendous growth in me. When my youth leader told me that I needed to find a baptism mentor, who would walk through the baptism study with me, pray for me, support me, and lead the congregation in prayer for me on that night, my mind instantly went to Emily. That's not to say anything bad about any of the other leaders, but something inside me KNEW that Emily was the right person to do this with. As we ventured into the baptism study, shared our stories, and just continued to get to know each other over the next few months, we formed a special connection, one that no one else will ever have in my life. Emily is, was, and always will be my encouragement to get baptized, and my mentor. Emily is the sort of person that you can go days, weeks, maybe even months without seeing, yet in the back of your mind, you know she hasn't changed. When I see her, even if it HAS been months without talking, we pick up right where we left off, and I think that's awesome.
Being able to see either of these wonderful girls is a real treat for me, but today, I got to see them BOTH ON THE SAME DAY!!!!!! I spent all day yesterday finalizing plans, and just generally freaking out that I would get to see BOTH of my Emily's in one day! I am so blessed to have these two amazing women in my life, I love the unique connection I have with both of these girls, even though their names may be the same, our friendships are very different, but equally wonderful in their own way. I sincerely hope each of you reading this either have an Emily in your life(not literally...), or that one day you will FIND your Emily.
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
I think it's interesting how quickly I form a connection with people. For these two girls, I have only known them for about 2 years, but at the same time, I can't imagine NOT having them in my life. In two years, I have grown so close to both of these girls, but in two completely different situations.
I'll start with Emily Lengal first, mainly because I met her first. Emily and my friendship blossomed out of tragedy and great loss for both of us, while I was grieving the loss of my brother, she was grieving the loss of her boyfriend of two days. Read that sentence again, TWO. DAYS. 48 HOURS! Literally the first time they held hands was in the hospital. From the get go, we were sort of drawn to each other, at the hospital we would do whatever we could to go in together to see him. At the funeral, she sat next to me, as a member of our "extended family" and was my rock for that day, and for the days to come. As time went on, our friendship blossomed, she became my life line of sorts, I knew that whatever I was dealing with in my life, I could come and talk to her about it, and she would do her best to help. The first summer she went home, it was very hard for both of us to say goodbye, but throughout the summer, we kept each other informed on what was going on in our lives, and supported each other in prayer. I remember one particular instance that REALLY opened my eyes to just how much Emily cares about me, as I was off at the Life Student Conference, a week that I KNEW going in would NOT be an easy week for me, she was in Pennsylvania, her home, supporting me in prayer. As she was counseling at summer camp, she could not shake the worry and heartbreak she had for me that week, so when her best friend asked her what was bothering her, she just broke down. She told her all about me, and where I was that week, and how hard it was going to be for me, and together, they sat there and prayed for me. How cool is THAT?! Anyways, that is only the beginning of our wonderful friendship, and I am so excited to see where the Lord decides to take this friendship.
Then, there is Emily Trowbridge. She and I met in the fall of my Senior year, she was a freshman at Wheaton, interested in helping with the high school ministry at our church. In that time in my life, I was really struggling, I was in a pretty severe depression, my friends did all that they could to try and help me, but they just couldn't understand what I was feeling and going through. I had basically dug myself a trench, protecting myself from the chaos and hurt and fear of life, while also dwelling on the sadness that consumed me. Emily did more than just try to help, Emily climbed into that trench with me, and fought the battles of life alongside me that year. When we met, we instantly realized that we have a LOT in common, we are very similar personality wise, we both love to laugh and have fun, we both love music, we even grew up in the same neighborhood and didn't even know it! Despite these many similarities that certainly HELPED to build our relationship, I think was really brought us together was that she, too had lost someone, she KNEW what I was going through. As Emily and I grew closer throughout the year, I began to consider baptism more seriously, knowing that not only was it my last year here, but also, there had been tremendous growth in me. When my youth leader told me that I needed to find a baptism mentor, who would walk through the baptism study with me, pray for me, support me, and lead the congregation in prayer for me on that night, my mind instantly went to Emily. That's not to say anything bad about any of the other leaders, but something inside me KNEW that Emily was the right person to do this with. As we ventured into the baptism study, shared our stories, and just continued to get to know each other over the next few months, we formed a special connection, one that no one else will ever have in my life. Emily is, was, and always will be my encouragement to get baptized, and my mentor. Emily is the sort of person that you can go days, weeks, maybe even months without seeing, yet in the back of your mind, you know she hasn't changed. When I see her, even if it HAS been months without talking, we pick up right where we left off, and I think that's awesome.
Being able to see either of these wonderful girls is a real treat for me, but today, I got to see them BOTH ON THE SAME DAY!!!!!! I spent all day yesterday finalizing plans, and just generally freaking out that I would get to see BOTH of my Emily's in one day! I am so blessed to have these two amazing women in my life, I love the unique connection I have with both of these girls, even though their names may be the same, our friendships are very different, but equally wonderful in their own way. I sincerely hope each of you reading this either have an Emily in your life(not literally...), or that one day you will FIND your Emily.
<3 Always,
Rose
Thursday, April 9, 2015
Day 315-The LaRusso's
Monday, April 6th
Hey guys,
So, since I've gotten to Chicago, I have been staying with our dear friends, the LaRusso's, but I have always known them as Aunt Gina and Uncle Craig. When we first moved from North to South Wheaton, they lived right down the street from us, and had two girls, the same age as Caroline and Graham. Caroline and their oldest, Adrianna quickly became best friends, and Graham and their youngest, Marina followed suit. I cannot even TELL you how many hours I've spent with them, how many laughs I've had with them, how many conversations I've had with them, or how many memories I've made with them. Basically, Aunt Gina, Uncle Craig, Adrianna, and Marina are a part of our family, they always have been, and they always will be. Growing up, neither of us had any family real close by, so we spent many holidays at each others house, particularly Christmas. Each Christmas Eve, for probably at LEAST 10 years, we would play spaceopoly, and because I was so little at the time, I got the great honor of being the "Laser Lady". I'm not going to lie, it was strange to be staying with Aunt Gina and Uncle Craig while both girls were away, especially Marina. When we were little, it was normally Adrianna and Caroline playing together, and Marina and Graham playing together, and then there was me...the awkward 3rd wheel...but since the loss of Graham, Marina and I have become MUCH closer, so yes, it was weird. It was weird staying in Marina's room, with pictures all over the place, while she's overseas in Ecuador, but it was also awesome. Aunt Gina and Uncle Craig have basically always been my "second-parents" if my real parents weren't around for some reason or another, and because their NOT my parents, I was able to have conversations with them without me being completely irrational and "teenager-ish", or feeling like I'm not being heard. All in all, I want to give a HUGE thank you to Aunt Gina and Uncle Craig for hosting me this week, I SO enjoyed it!
Hey guys,
So, since I've gotten to Chicago, I have been staying with our dear friends, the LaRusso's, but I have always known them as Aunt Gina and Uncle Craig. When we first moved from North to South Wheaton, they lived right down the street from us, and had two girls, the same age as Caroline and Graham. Caroline and their oldest, Adrianna quickly became best friends, and Graham and their youngest, Marina followed suit. I cannot even TELL you how many hours I've spent with them, how many laughs I've had with them, how many conversations I've had with them, or how many memories I've made with them. Basically, Aunt Gina, Uncle Craig, Adrianna, and Marina are a part of our family, they always have been, and they always will be. Growing up, neither of us had any family real close by, so we spent many holidays at each others house, particularly Christmas. Each Christmas Eve, for probably at LEAST 10 years, we would play spaceopoly, and because I was so little at the time, I got the great honor of being the "Laser Lady". I'm not going to lie, it was strange to be staying with Aunt Gina and Uncle Craig while both girls were away, especially Marina. When we were little, it was normally Adrianna and Caroline playing together, and Marina and Graham playing together, and then there was me...the awkward 3rd wheel...but since the loss of Graham, Marina and I have become MUCH closer, so yes, it was weird. It was weird staying in Marina's room, with pictures all over the place, while she's overseas in Ecuador, but it was also awesome. Aunt Gina and Uncle Craig have basically always been my "second-parents" if my real parents weren't around for some reason or another, and because their NOT my parents, I was able to have conversations with them without me being completely irrational and "teenager-ish", or feeling like I'm not being heard. All in all, I want to give a HUGE thank you to Aunt Gina and Uncle Craig for hosting me this week, I SO enjoyed it!
Back Row from Left: Mom, Dad, Uncle Craig, Aunt Gina
Middle from left: Caroline, Adrianna, Me, Marina
Bottom row:Graham
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 314-Easter
Sunday, April 5th
Hey guys,
So, to most of us, Easter is a wonderful thing. Easter is a reminder of God's great and awesome power, and of the price Jesus paid to make a way for sinners to enter into Heaven. However, to our family, and to many other families who have lost loved ones, it is so much more. Easter and the resurrection is a promise; a promise that we WILL see them again, we WILL have our questions answered, we WILL finally see why things happened the way they did, and above all, there will be NO. MORE. PAIN! To us, Easter is a bitter sweet time, while others rejoice at the thought of Christ conquering the grave, we are painfully reminded that Graham is there, and not here. It is sort of a conundrum, as believers, we are overjoyed to be able to enter heaven some day, and we are overjoyed that Graham is there now, but then as humans, that's NOT what we want. We either want Graham here now, or we want to be up in Heaven with him. Because of this conflict, Easter is a very hard time for me, for my family, and for many other families who have lost loved ones. Easter is both a celebration, and a grievance. One GREAT example of the Easter conundrum is that on Easter of 2012, Graham was professing his faith in Jesus, sharing his testimony to the congregation, and was baptized, but on Easter of 2013, we held his funeral in that very same sanctuary. I don't write this to criticize those who see the joy in Easter, or to "bum you out", but I write this to add a different perspective of Easter, one that is VERY real, one that hundreds and hundreds of families deal with. I write this as a reminder that Easter isn't all about the candy, or Easter egg hunts, or pretty dresses, or even a time a joy, it's also a time of sadness. It's a reminder that because of our sinful nature, God created a BARRIER that would forever separate us from him, one that could only be penetrated by Jesus himself. If you look back in Genesis, before The Fall, you will see, God had a VERY personal relationship with both Adam and Eve, he would walk in the garden with them every night, he would carry on conversations with them. After The Fall, that privilege was taken away, and a barrier was established between men and God. So, as you celebrate Easter this year, think about what Easter might mean to others, to someone who doesn't know God, it might just be a day to get free candy. I want to encourage you, if you know someone who has lost a family member, or just seems to be having a hard time celebrating this Easter, don't be afraid to talk to them about it!
Hey guys,
So, to most of us, Easter is a wonderful thing. Easter is a reminder of God's great and awesome power, and of the price Jesus paid to make a way for sinners to enter into Heaven. However, to our family, and to many other families who have lost loved ones, it is so much more. Easter and the resurrection is a promise; a promise that we WILL see them again, we WILL have our questions answered, we WILL finally see why things happened the way they did, and above all, there will be NO. MORE. PAIN! To us, Easter is a bitter sweet time, while others rejoice at the thought of Christ conquering the grave, we are painfully reminded that Graham is there, and not here. It is sort of a conundrum, as believers, we are overjoyed to be able to enter heaven some day, and we are overjoyed that Graham is there now, but then as humans, that's NOT what we want. We either want Graham here now, or we want to be up in Heaven with him. Because of this conflict, Easter is a very hard time for me, for my family, and for many other families who have lost loved ones. Easter is both a celebration, and a grievance. One GREAT example of the Easter conundrum is that on Easter of 2012, Graham was professing his faith in Jesus, sharing his testimony to the congregation, and was baptized, but on Easter of 2013, we held his funeral in that very same sanctuary. I don't write this to criticize those who see the joy in Easter, or to "bum you out", but I write this to add a different perspective of Easter, one that is VERY real, one that hundreds and hundreds of families deal with. I write this as a reminder that Easter isn't all about the candy, or Easter egg hunts, or pretty dresses, or even a time a joy, it's also a time of sadness. It's a reminder that because of our sinful nature, God created a BARRIER that would forever separate us from him, one that could only be penetrated by Jesus himself. If you look back in Genesis, before The Fall, you will see, God had a VERY personal relationship with both Adam and Eve, he would walk in the garden with them every night, he would carry on conversations with them. After The Fall, that privilege was taken away, and a barrier was established between men and God. So, as you celebrate Easter this year, think about what Easter might mean to others, to someone who doesn't know God, it might just be a day to get free candy. I want to encourage you, if you know someone who has lost a family member, or just seems to be having a hard time celebrating this Easter, don't be afraid to talk to them about it!
This prayer seemed to be the epitome of how I felt, and how my family felt this Easter.
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 313-Great Friends
Saturday, April 4th
Hey guys,
So, I feel like this comes up a LOT in my blog posts, but my friends are AWESOME. I feel so blessed to be so well loved by so many different people, and this was made clear AGAIN today. As we were finishing our 13 hour drive yesterday, I got a text from my friend that I was going to see today that basically said, "We're all going to Starved Rock tomorrow, you're coming with. Be ready by 8:40, because we love you." EIGHT FORTY IN THE MORNING AFTER A THIRTEEN HOUR CAR TRIP??? WHO DOES THAT?!!! Well, the answer is, my friends, and me. So, I woke up early on my first "official" day of vacation, and spent the day exploring Starved Rock State Park with my friends for the majority of the day. Before I go any further, I need to clarify, this group of friends that I went with, they aren't even technically MY friends, they were GRAHAM'S friends, and have adopted me into their rag tag team in these past 2 years. That right there just shows you how much they loved Graham, how much they love our family, and how much they love me, they genuinely care about me, not as Graham's little sister, but as ROSE, and THAT means so much to me.
Hey guys,
So, I feel like this comes up a LOT in my blog posts, but my friends are AWESOME. I feel so blessed to be so well loved by so many different people, and this was made clear AGAIN today. As we were finishing our 13 hour drive yesterday, I got a text from my friend that I was going to see today that basically said, "We're all going to Starved Rock tomorrow, you're coming with. Be ready by 8:40, because we love you." EIGHT FORTY IN THE MORNING AFTER A THIRTEEN HOUR CAR TRIP??? WHO DOES THAT?!!! Well, the answer is, my friends, and me. So, I woke up early on my first "official" day of vacation, and spent the day exploring Starved Rock State Park with my friends for the majority of the day. Before I go any further, I need to clarify, this group of friends that I went with, they aren't even technically MY friends, they were GRAHAM'S friends, and have adopted me into their rag tag team in these past 2 years. That right there just shows you how much they loved Graham, how much they love our family, and how much they love me, they genuinely care about me, not as Graham's little sister, but as ROSE, and THAT means so much to me.
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 312-WE MADE IT!
Friday, April 3rd
Hey guys,
So, as a seasoned veteran of road trips, I can tell you, you always THINK it will be better the next time around, but unfortunately, it never really is. You'd think that you'd start getting used to road trips after a certain amount of hours or trips...yeah, not so much. I was basically born into a road tripping family, because we had family down in North Carolina, and also had family in Kansas City, we did at LEAST two road trips a year. Of course, as we grew older, road trips became more and more frequent, and more and more cramped. Let's just say, road tripping is never pleasant...for anyone...ever. I was so relieved this afternoon when we FINALLY ended our 13 hour journey to Chicago, and was able to get OUT OF THE CAR. Especially with the amount of kids, pillows, blankets, stuffed animals, water bottles, coolers, electronics, food, and shoes in our car, it can often feel a bit like a clown car. However, we managed to survive, and after a small detour, we were FINALLY in Chicago, YIPPEE!!
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, as a seasoned veteran of road trips, I can tell you, you always THINK it will be better the next time around, but unfortunately, it never really is. You'd think that you'd start getting used to road trips after a certain amount of hours or trips...yeah, not so much. I was basically born into a road tripping family, because we had family down in North Carolina, and also had family in Kansas City, we did at LEAST two road trips a year. Of course, as we grew older, road trips became more and more frequent, and more and more cramped. Let's just say, road tripping is never pleasant...for anyone...ever. I was so relieved this afternoon when we FINALLY ended our 13 hour journey to Chicago, and was able to get OUT OF THE CAR. Especially with the amount of kids, pillows, blankets, stuffed animals, water bottles, coolers, electronics, food, and shoes in our car, it can often feel a bit like a clown car. However, we managed to survive, and after a small detour, we were FINALLY in Chicago, YIPPEE!!
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 311- Getting a bed!
Thursday, April 2nd
Hey guys,
So, unless you have a massively large family like I do, it is likely that you've never experienced this, and that is a good thing, BELIEVE ME. In most hotels, it is actually UNLAWFUL for a family of 6 to stay in one room, for pretty obvious safety reasons...anyways, our family lucked out tonight and was actually able to find a hotel that would let us all stay in one room. Once we got to the room, we realized we had another issue, no one wanted to sleep on the cot. Being the only girl normally when we travel, I am USUALLY the one who ends up sleeping on the cot, but tonight, since I DID just drive 11 hours trapped in the back seat with Aedon(if you know him well, I'm sure you can imagine...and if you don't, just picture a squirrel, on steroids, being given coffee, trapped in the car for 11 hours), it was only fair that Aedon and I should get the bed. We were actually able to get a good nights sleep, which was nice for me, considering every other night spent in a hotel on this trip, I slept either on the floor, or on a cot...
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, unless you have a massively large family like I do, it is likely that you've never experienced this, and that is a good thing, BELIEVE ME. In most hotels, it is actually UNLAWFUL for a family of 6 to stay in one room, for pretty obvious safety reasons...anyways, our family lucked out tonight and was actually able to find a hotel that would let us all stay in one room. Once we got to the room, we realized we had another issue, no one wanted to sleep on the cot. Being the only girl normally when we travel, I am USUALLY the one who ends up sleeping on the cot, but tonight, since I DID just drive 11 hours trapped in the back seat with Aedon(if you know him well, I'm sure you can imagine...and if you don't, just picture a squirrel, on steroids, being given coffee, trapped in the car for 11 hours), it was only fair that Aedon and I should get the bed. We were actually able to get a good nights sleep, which was nice for me, considering every other night spent in a hotel on this trip, I slept either on the floor, or on a cot...
<3 Always,
Rose
Day 310-Community
Wednesday, April 1st
Hey guys,
So, as the weekly all church dinner began to wind down, I began thinking of ALL the things that needed to be done before leaving for Spring Break the next morning, but even before that, it hit me like a train driving full speed, I'm not going to see these people for at LEAST a week, for most of them probably more. I have grown so accustomed to seeing my friends 3-4 times a week at the VERY least, but most weeks it's more like 4, 5, or even 6 times a week. So, to realize that I wouldn't see ANY of my friends for a whole 8 days at the very least, that was a lot to take in. Now, yes, it IS only 8 days, so it's NOT the end of the world, but for us, or at least for me, it was a BIG deal. On the flip side, I hadn't seen most of my friends in Chicago since the Fall, so I was BEYOND excited to see them. All I know is, as I began to realize the reality that I wouldn't be at church for at LEAST 8 days, so many people did a double take. Both little Norris girls were seriously trying to wrap their heads around the fact that I DO have other people who love me, and want to see me, and that completely melted my heart. A church community like ours is very hard to find, and I know that personally, I am SO blessed by the close knit community that is First Presbyterian Church.
<3 Always,
Rose
Hey guys,
So, as the weekly all church dinner began to wind down, I began thinking of ALL the things that needed to be done before leaving for Spring Break the next morning, but even before that, it hit me like a train driving full speed, I'm not going to see these people for at LEAST a week, for most of them probably more. I have grown so accustomed to seeing my friends 3-4 times a week at the VERY least, but most weeks it's more like 4, 5, or even 6 times a week. So, to realize that I wouldn't see ANY of my friends for a whole 8 days at the very least, that was a lot to take in. Now, yes, it IS only 8 days, so it's NOT the end of the world, but for us, or at least for me, it was a BIG deal. On the flip side, I hadn't seen most of my friends in Chicago since the Fall, so I was BEYOND excited to see them. All I know is, as I began to realize the reality that I wouldn't be at church for at LEAST 8 days, so many people did a double take. Both little Norris girls were seriously trying to wrap their heads around the fact that I DO have other people who love me, and want to see me, and that completely melted my heart. A church community like ours is very hard to find, and I know that personally, I am SO blessed by the close knit community that is First Presbyterian Church.
<3 Always,
Rose
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