Words from a country song. Have I mentioned that I'm on a really big country kick right now? All this warm weather and country music makes it almost feel like summer. You know where I'll be this summer?? Besides slaving away 40+ hours a week for my clinical rotation?? I'm spending few days in Nashville! My dream come true. The other day Joanna and I were having a conversation about where we'd be if we were doing what we TRULY wanted to do - dream job or place to live - I decided I'd be in Nashville. Let me rewind about how this all came about.
Friday was my first day of clinicals which is awesome. I'm on the neuro unit at UVA's acute care hospital. I got to see all kinds of amazing things on my first day. Not only the typical stroke and neuro conditions, but different spinal and brain surgery patients, a mandibularotomy, and some other cool things. It was amazing. Afterwards I met my classmate Laura in Charlottesville for some window shopping and dinner. I stayed the night at her house in Waynesboro because we were running a 10k for her husband's cross country team early this morning. We ran our 6 miles pretty fast - an 8:57 pace per mile! I finally broke under 9 minutes!
Anyways we were walking around and talking about things we'd like to or go and it just so happens that Laura and her husband will be spending a few days in Nashville with their family and invited me to go along! FOR FREE. Yes, absolutely no cost.
Considering this is the one place I've been dying to go (and I can see myself ending up there eventually), I jumped right on it. And it looks like the world of music and country stars awaits. I am beyond excited.
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Sunday, March 11, 2012
A new week...
So, I've managed to make it back to Harrisonburg, unpack all of my stuff, do the dishes, vacuum, get my laundry going, have my quiet time, and get ready for the day. Everything is done and all I have left to do is study for a ginormous test on Thursday.
Yes, that's right, a test the very week after spring break when the professor knows full well that no one has spent an exuberant amount of time studying. I do have to admit, I have probably done about 3 hours worth so far. Which is better than nothing.
*Sigh. Now, I'm really procrastinating. I have church at 6 tonight so I'm trying to figure out what I can do for the next two hours so I don't have to hit the books. Unfortunately, all the stalling in the world couldn't help right now. I guess I should take advantage of the few hours I have right now since this week promises to be a crazy one.
Even though it is absolutely gorgeous outside. Thank you grad school.
Yes, that's right, a test the very week after spring break when the professor knows full well that no one has spent an exuberant amount of time studying. I do have to admit, I have probably done about 3 hours worth so far. Which is better than nothing.
*Sigh. Now, I'm really procrastinating. I have church at 6 tonight so I'm trying to figure out what I can do for the next two hours so I don't have to hit the books. Unfortunately, all the stalling in the world couldn't help right now. I guess I should take advantage of the few hours I have right now since this week promises to be a crazy one.
Even though it is absolutely gorgeous outside. Thank you grad school.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
RUNNING
As I've revamped my blog, I've deleted a couple of pages and added some new ones. I'm keeping the Spiritual Food For Thought and then added a running section. I don't know if I want to post it all there or here, for fear that it won't get read. And how sad would that be?
Anyways, Sunday, Tina and I ran a grueling 10 miles. Mind you, I've run 10 miles before and not too long ago, but something about this run was hard. Probably the hills, probably the distance, probably the not knowing where you're going all wrapped into one made it difficult.
Well, let me tell you. Monday morning, I felt like I had run a half or longer. I'm still recuperating from the grueling run. Today we did an easy 4.5 mile run which felt incredibly short and liberating compared to the struggle I felt on Sunday.
And now I am incredibly content with sitting on the couch all day watching the Law and Order SVU marathon and eating cake. As Marie Antoinette said "Let them eat cake!" What she should have said was "Let them eat cake and be happy and watch tv all day."
Happy Spring Break.
Anyways, Sunday, Tina and I ran a grueling 10 miles. Mind you, I've run 10 miles before and not too long ago, but something about this run was hard. Probably the hills, probably the distance, probably the not knowing where you're going all wrapped into one made it difficult.
Well, let me tell you. Monday morning, I felt like I had run a half or longer. I'm still recuperating from the grueling run. Today we did an easy 4.5 mile run which felt incredibly short and liberating compared to the struggle I felt on Sunday.
And now I am incredibly content with sitting on the couch all day watching the Law and Order SVU marathon and eating cake. As Marie Antoinette said "Let them eat cake!" What she should have said was "Let them eat cake and be happy and watch tv all day."
Happy Spring Break.
The prodigal son
I know this is one of those spoon fed Bible stories that are told to us when we're little, but I reread this parable and am so completely humbled by the love God has for me. If you need a refresher it's Luke 15:11-32.
Thoughts or Main Ideas I got from reading it today:
1. It's the story of rebellion and running. It's believing that we know what's better for ourselves than God does.
2. It's never too late to turn to God, no matter what your circumstances are, no matter what you're struggling or dealing with. He is always there with arms wide open ready to receive His lost child.
3. The love of God is limitless. This kind of goes back to #2. But there is absolutely nothing that you or I can do that would turn Him away from us. And that is a truly amazing love.
The beauty of the story is not if the child returns home, but when. If you look at verse 20, the boy's father was there each day searching the road for the return of his son. And when he sees him, he is filled with compassion and mercy and welcomes him home.
The greatest gift you can give someone, is to love them without strings, conditions, or expectations. Freely loving someone means accepting them as they are whether or not we feel they are worthy of it. It's loving in a way that doesn't make sense to and is not accepted by the world. It's the way Jesus loved and still loves.
Thoughts or Main Ideas I got from reading it today:
1. It's the story of rebellion and running. It's believing that we know what's better for ourselves than God does.
2. It's never too late to turn to God, no matter what your circumstances are, no matter what you're struggling or dealing with. He is always there with arms wide open ready to receive His lost child.
3. The love of God is limitless. This kind of goes back to #2. But there is absolutely nothing that you or I can do that would turn Him away from us. And that is a truly amazing love.
The beauty of the story is not if the child returns home, but when. If you look at verse 20, the boy's father was there each day searching the road for the return of his son. And when he sees him, he is filled with compassion and mercy and welcomes him home.
The greatest gift you can give someone, is to love them without strings, conditions, or expectations. Freely loving someone means accepting them as they are whether or not we feel they are worthy of it. It's loving in a way that doesn't make sense to and is not accepted by the world. It's the way Jesus loved and still loves.
Monday, March 5, 2012
My Aquatic Themed Spring Break...
...And I didn't even need a bathing suit. Seriously though, I flew into Atlanta on Thursday evening after my ALL-DAY TBI class experience. Which I have to admit, makes me want to become an OT that works with patients who have encountered traumatic brain injuries. That aside, I barely made my flight and headed down south for a some warm weather.
What I got was a week full of 40-50 degrees, tornado warnings, and an aquatic themed trip. Let me explain. First of all, I do not mind the weather. I've always loved the cold and this is no exception. However,I must say that I am disappointed that I leave Virginia and we finally get snow. Seriously??? The month of March and I are going to exchange some words later. Secondly, the tornado warnings were not that scary because most of them were 30 minutes away or more therefore we weren't directly impacted. However, the loud and aggressive thunderstorm that preceded the tornadoes gave me the intense desire to sleep walk and hold a full five minute conversation with Tina that I have absolutely no recollection of. Lastly, by aquatic themed, I mean it. Friday night we ate out at Red Lobster and had amazingly delicious seafood. Saturday we headed to the Aquarium, which as I have previously mentioned, gave me the desire to watch the little mermaid. Sunday, we not only had sushi, but then proceeded to watch the little mermaid I discovered a handful of things (amazing what you can learn from a disney movie right?)
1. I just ate all of Ariel's friends...RAW.
2. If I were to be one of Ariel's sisters I would be Attina because she is a brunette, wears a crown-like tiara like her dad, is next in line for the throne being the eldest, and is characterized by being the bossiest and most responsible. Though orange is not my favorite color, this pretty much sums me up.
3. I want a life where I can sing about my problems/issues and also to live with sea creatures. That sea horse in the beginning is so cute and my favorite.
4. Adelaide is a good name for a daughter - which is one of the other sister's names.
5. I really just want to be Belle because she seems to have it more together than Ariel does - though I must say Ariel's prince has a dog; Belle's is one...but that's a whole other debate for a different blog post.
Anyways chew on that for a while and I'll go chew on breakfast. Top of the mornin'!
What I got was a week full of 40-50 degrees, tornado warnings, and an aquatic themed trip. Let me explain. First of all, I do not mind the weather. I've always loved the cold and this is no exception. However,I must say that I am disappointed that I leave Virginia and we finally get snow. Seriously??? The month of March and I are going to exchange some words later. Secondly, the tornado warnings were not that scary because most of them were 30 minutes away or more therefore we weren't directly impacted. However, the loud and aggressive thunderstorm that preceded the tornadoes gave me the intense desire to sleep walk and hold a full five minute conversation with Tina that I have absolutely no recollection of. Lastly, by aquatic themed, I mean it. Friday night we ate out at Red Lobster and had amazingly delicious seafood. Saturday we headed to the Aquarium, which as I have previously mentioned, gave me the desire to watch the little mermaid. Sunday, we not only had sushi, but then proceeded to watch the little mermaid I discovered a handful of things (amazing what you can learn from a disney movie right?)
1. I just ate all of Ariel's friends...RAW.
2. If I were to be one of Ariel's sisters I would be Attina because she is a brunette, wears a crown-like tiara like her dad, is next in line for the throne being the eldest, and is characterized by being the bossiest and most responsible. Though orange is not my favorite color, this pretty much sums me up.
3. I want a life where I can sing about my problems/issues and also to live with sea creatures. That sea horse in the beginning is so cute and my favorite.
4. Adelaide is a good name for a daughter - which is one of the other sister's names.
5. I really just want to be Belle because she seems to have it more together than Ariel does - though I must say Ariel's prince has a dog; Belle's is one...but that's a whole other debate for a different blog post.
Anyways chew on that for a while and I'll go chew on breakfast. Top of the mornin'!
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Productive Sundays
I have to say, I am a fan of what I like to call "lazy days". They are the most refreshing, rejuvenating, and re-energizing days of my week. I don't necessarily get to have them all the time, but when I do I am absolutely thankful. In my book, lazy days are no-make-up, dress down clothes, and no-work out days. There's something really special about them. I have to say I love them and appreciate them immensely since being in graduate school.
What I love one step above a good lazy day, is a good productive day. While lazy days are restful, productive days are energizing and encouraging in a completely different way. I can get a lot accomplished and am able to do so many things. Take today for example. Tina and I got up (btw, I'm in Athens, Ga on Spring Break) ran 10 miles, went to church, went to law school, walked around campus, went to the bookstore, had my quiet time, and am now writing a very much needed blog post. And though I didn't do much academically, I feel so accomplished. This is generally the feeling I get after running, despite the distance and other productive things, but nonetheless today was/is a good day.
I'm thankful for days like today too because I'm really able to step back and look at all the things that God has provided for me in this life. I am truly blessed. Speaking of which, I went to the church of Athens today which was almost identical to Valley in the ways of teaching, comfort, openness, acceptance, and believe it or not set-up. I absolutely loved it. The message was also very encouraging. The pastor spoke on authority in our lives and how we need to obey it.
Every authority in our lives has been God-chosen, but it doesn't mean it is godly. Thus being said, we are still expected to obey and respect authority because it's what God wants for us. Good message.
In other news, Tina and I went to the World's Largest Aquarium yesterday in Atlanta. It was a lot of fun, though I enjoy the activities of an 8 year old. :) However, it gave me the urge to watch the little mermaid. Which I plan on doing in about 20 seconds.
Enjoy this God-given day!
What I love one step above a good lazy day, is a good productive day. While lazy days are restful, productive days are energizing and encouraging in a completely different way. I can get a lot accomplished and am able to do so many things. Take today for example. Tina and I got up (btw, I'm in Athens, Ga on Spring Break) ran 10 miles, went to church, went to law school, walked around campus, went to the bookstore, had my quiet time, and am now writing a very much needed blog post. And though I didn't do much academically, I feel so accomplished. This is generally the feeling I get after running, despite the distance and other productive things, but nonetheless today was/is a good day.
I'm thankful for days like today too because I'm really able to step back and look at all the things that God has provided for me in this life. I am truly blessed. Speaking of which, I went to the church of Athens today which was almost identical to Valley in the ways of teaching, comfort, openness, acceptance, and believe it or not set-up. I absolutely loved it. The message was also very encouraging. The pastor spoke on authority in our lives and how we need to obey it.
Every authority in our lives has been God-chosen, but it doesn't mean it is godly. Thus being said, we are still expected to obey and respect authority because it's what God wants for us. Good message.
In other news, Tina and I went to the World's Largest Aquarium yesterday in Atlanta. It was a lot of fun, though I enjoy the activities of an 8 year old. :) However, it gave me the urge to watch the little mermaid. Which I plan on doing in about 20 seconds.
Enjoy this God-given day!
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Redeeming Love - the story of every man
Don't believe me? Read the book.
The first time I ever heard of this book, I was a junior in college and my roommate Courtney was reading it. She would occasionally tell me about it, mentioning it was a love story, but was really hard to read. It never jumped out at me...UNTIL I saw it sitting on Kim's bookshelf a couple of months ago. Kim told me I could borrow it, where it sat on my bookshelf for the next few months. And then I had a God-moment. You totally know what that is if you've ever experienced one.
I felt the need to read it, something urging me to open the book and just read at least the first few pages. And then I was sucked in. If you've never read it, allow to recap. If you have bear with me.
Redeeming Love is a fictional representation of the book of Hosea in the bible. The main characters are:
Angel - a prostitute who's been in the business since she was 8 with a lot of abandonment issues
Michael - a simple farmer, follower of Christ
Paul - Michael's friend and brother-in-law
Miriam - soon to be Paul's new wife, part of the Altman clan
The Altman's - a family who builds a house and life on Michael's farm becoming very close to Angel and Michael
God tells Michael to marry Angel after seeing her once in the streets of Pair-a-dice. This is a problem as Angel is lives in a brothel and live an adulterous life. That doesn't matter to God. Michael spends time trying to win her over and eventually marries her and brings her home to his farm. A couple of times she runs back to the city, thinking her life before was better and thinking maybe she could make it on her own. Michael continues to bring her home. Over time Angel has come to love Michael and can't imagine her life without him. But knowing she can't have kids and that's Michael's dream in life, she decides to leave despite her love for him. She thinks Miriam would serve as a better, more traditional wife.
This time when Angel leaves, Michael doesn't go after her, though he prays every day that she will return. She's gone for 3 years. Eventually Paul comes to find her (as his wife Miriam has requested this). Settling some issues from their past, Paul comes to realize how wrong he was about Angel and brings her home to Michael. Angel realizes that Michael has waited for her over these past three years and then there's kind of a happy ending. :)
Of course there are a lot of details woven into the story that only heighten the love and sacrifice involved. It's definitely worth reading.
The story of every man? Well here's my rationale. I can identify myself with Angel. No I'm not a prostitute nor have I suffered through some of the extreme circumstances in the story, but I've also been an adulterer. Let me explain.
For so long, I've called myself a Christian and focused on this in-depth relationship that I have with Christ. And for so long, I've cheated on Him with whatever the world throws my way. Drinking, relationships, lust, anger, materialism, self-centered attitude. And during those times I found myself running from God. Michael represents God who is there waiting patiently each and every day for every single child to come to Him. He's constantly asking us to come back to him and so many times he finds me, wraps me up, and brings me back to Him. And no matter how much I miss up, I know that there is nothing that will make Him turn me away.
I'll admit, I was angry for Angel for so long in the book because she repeatedly broke Michael's heart. I kept thinking how every woman longs for a man to love her like this and here's this girl who wants nothing to do with this epic love. What kind of person could do that to such an unfailing and unwaviering love? And then it hit me, I have. I have a great love story and I continually run away from Him. Instead, I should not only be content by it, but overjoyed by it.
I can try to run away but I remember Him waiting there for me, days, months, and even years. And it took the running away for me to realize that what I needed was to be running towards Him. It took me understanding what running away and running to Him looked like. There are still plenty of issues to work out. My past will always be remembered, but I will never feel shame nor guilt for the choices that happened because they led me to Christ. And He doesn't hold me to it. He lifts me in His arms and prepares me for what I will be. He loves me as I am and not as I should be. It looks like I've already gotten my happy ending after all.
The first time I ever heard of this book, I was a junior in college and my roommate Courtney was reading it. She would occasionally tell me about it, mentioning it was a love story, but was really hard to read. It never jumped out at me...UNTIL I saw it sitting on Kim's bookshelf a couple of months ago. Kim told me I could borrow it, where it sat on my bookshelf for the next few months. And then I had a God-moment. You totally know what that is if you've ever experienced one.
I felt the need to read it, something urging me to open the book and just read at least the first few pages. And then I was sucked in. If you've never read it, allow to recap. If you have bear with me.
Redeeming Love is a fictional representation of the book of Hosea in the bible. The main characters are:
Angel - a prostitute who's been in the business since she was 8 with a lot of abandonment issues
Michael - a simple farmer, follower of Christ
Paul - Michael's friend and brother-in-law
Miriam - soon to be Paul's new wife, part of the Altman clan
The Altman's - a family who builds a house and life on Michael's farm becoming very close to Angel and Michael
God tells Michael to marry Angel after seeing her once in the streets of Pair-a-dice. This is a problem as Angel is lives in a brothel and live an adulterous life. That doesn't matter to God. Michael spends time trying to win her over and eventually marries her and brings her home to his farm. A couple of times she runs back to the city, thinking her life before was better and thinking maybe she could make it on her own. Michael continues to bring her home. Over time Angel has come to love Michael and can't imagine her life without him. But knowing she can't have kids and that's Michael's dream in life, she decides to leave despite her love for him. She thinks Miriam would serve as a better, more traditional wife.
This time when Angel leaves, Michael doesn't go after her, though he prays every day that she will return. She's gone for 3 years. Eventually Paul comes to find her (as his wife Miriam has requested this). Settling some issues from their past, Paul comes to realize how wrong he was about Angel and brings her home to Michael. Angel realizes that Michael has waited for her over these past three years and then there's kind of a happy ending. :)
Of course there are a lot of details woven into the story that only heighten the love and sacrifice involved. It's definitely worth reading.
The story of every man? Well here's my rationale. I can identify myself with Angel. No I'm not a prostitute nor have I suffered through some of the extreme circumstances in the story, but I've also been an adulterer. Let me explain.
For so long, I've called myself a Christian and focused on this in-depth relationship that I have with Christ. And for so long, I've cheated on Him with whatever the world throws my way. Drinking, relationships, lust, anger, materialism, self-centered attitude. And during those times I found myself running from God. Michael represents God who is there waiting patiently each and every day for every single child to come to Him. He's constantly asking us to come back to him and so many times he finds me, wraps me up, and brings me back to Him. And no matter how much I miss up, I know that there is nothing that will make Him turn me away.
I'll admit, I was angry for Angel for so long in the book because she repeatedly broke Michael's heart. I kept thinking how every woman longs for a man to love her like this and here's this girl who wants nothing to do with this epic love. What kind of person could do that to such an unfailing and unwaviering love? And then it hit me, I have. I have a great love story and I continually run away from Him. Instead, I should not only be content by it, but overjoyed by it.
I can try to run away but I remember Him waiting there for me, days, months, and even years. And it took the running away for me to realize that what I needed was to be running towards Him. It took me understanding what running away and running to Him looked like. There are still plenty of issues to work out. My past will always be remembered, but I will never feel shame nor guilt for the choices that happened because they led me to Christ. And He doesn't hold me to it. He lifts me in His arms and prepares me for what I will be. He loves me as I am and not as I should be. It looks like I've already gotten my happy ending after all.
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