A Break in the Peaceful Silence

Sirens. They make me wonder. A fire. Car wreck. Shooting. Death? Who are they rushing to help? Someone from school. Work. Family? I always worry when I hear them. I can't help it. I want to know what has happened. But then again. I don't. So my mind just wanders. And I say a small prayer. For the unknown.

My Closet is Puking out Clothes

"It's very simple. Scissors cuts paper, paper covers rock, rock crushes lizard, lizard poisons Spock, Spock smashes scissors, scissors decapitates lizard, lizard eats paper, paper disproves Spock, Spock vaporizes rock, and, as it always has, rock crushes scissors."
- Sheldon explaining his new game of Rock Paper Scissors Lizard Spock, on The Big Bang Theory

I want to make up my own rock, paper, scissors game. Mine would involve bears, beets, and battlestar galactica. Maybe in a later blog. "My Closet is Puking out Clothes". Well, I noticed as I was hanging up some sweaters that it literally looks as if my closet is upchucking multicolored patterns of fabric. I am proud of my wardrobe and its diverse and unique nature, but seriously? What will I do in college? How will I bring them all with me? Whatever. There's still time to figure that one out thankfully. We had a surprise b-day party for Andrew tonight. He was most definitely surprised :) Played some games, got a lovely back massage from a lumpy electronic chair, and spent time with people I love. I'm excited to go to Bethel's service tomorrow morning, and also for their awesome worship :) I'm exhausted right now, so I'm hittin the sack. Its almost time to say farewell to January. Strange. The days go by so fast. Well, to bed I go. Until next time...

Made in China

Today in Economics we watched a video. Always good right? In one clip it showed a factory room in India. Rows and rows of sewing machines filled the room, with tired looking workers working tediously on a garment. The owner couldn't always get constant electricity so it showed the lights continuously flickering from off to on. The workers continued to work in darkness as if nothing had even happened. When I looked at what they were sewing, it looked just like the shirts I see on the hangers when I go shopping. It then hit me that SOMEONE actually made my shirt that I am wearing right now. The tag we're so familiar with. Made in China. Who made it? Who knows, maybe they were sitting in a dim factory being paid poorly. I mean, there's nothing I can do about it. But it just made me think.

PHOTO: I drew this tree in mythology today. I was bored haha. I think I might incorporate it into my next header for my blog...

It's the ride we take...

...the many winged escape. ~ A Fine Frenzy

Check out this site. It lets you view a different variety of news in a colorful interactive way. Just launch it and experiment with it some. Also check out thefwa.com It has just random interesting websites. Thank you web design class period 4. How I miss you so. McKenzi, Ruben, Tait, declaring our love for Tim, iceburg poster, Novster, ukrainian oil websites, fairy castles, etc. I work tonight. I've had the last 5 days or so off, so I'm ready for a couple hours of solid grocery bagging. I hope my buddies are working :)

Somewhere over the rainbow...

Just a few notices:

• If you are afraid of clowns, you'll think this is funny, please watch.
• Take my Poll!!!! on the right toolbar :)

And now for today:

I heard back about the Compassion Booth! I will be volunteering The Hoppers event Feb. 20th 6-9:30pm. I have more to look into, and some training to read up on, but I am extremely excited about telling others about my experiece through sponsoring a child. I understood one of my two math problems. Progress haha. I finally had the chance to go to Key Club today. I've missed the last few weeks becuase I've been without a car, or had to work :( I found the long sweater I've been looking for for the last month and a half! Only $15 too :) I went to Cafe Night and I would definately say it was a success. Acoustic music is the best, and I even got to hear some ukulele! Somewhere, over the rainbow...

What is life about?

(I was emailed this yesterday)

Paul's conversion was a classic and authentic religious conversion. It was an inner and authoritative experience, not just an idea, not hearsay, nor some secondhand information given to him, not textbook knowledge. Afterwards, he knew. God has no grandchildren, only children.

Every person has to come to the God experience on their own. Conversion is a foundational change in life position, perspective, and finally, one's very identity. After the transformation God is not out there any more. You don't look at God as a separate identity; you look out from God who lives in you and through you and with you. That is a major shift, probably the most major shift possible for humans.

Like Paul, a converted person becomes convinced that they are participating in something bigger than themselves. After conversion you know you are being used, you know you are being led, and above all you realize your life is not all about you! You are about life! It is happening inside of you and all God needs is your "yes" and your participation. It is likely the hardest yes you will ever utter, because your years of habit will all shout "not possible," "not me," and "not worthy."

Senior Year Pt. 2

It rained today. You can't really tell in today's picture, which I like. Doom and gloom days don't suit my fancy. Don't get me wrong, I love the rain. But I prefer warm rainy days when you walk outside, take a deep breathe of that clean rain smell, and let the rain hit your face gently. Perfect. We have yet to have one of those this year. I'm waiting patiently though. Today was the first day of semester. My classes are not nearly as demanding, which means NO BACKPACK FOR ME! haha but seriously, now I can just carry around a cute sidebag and ditch the backpack. It's glorious. I love my new classes. I have friends in them who I haven't had classes with in a while, and its nice to be able to share one for the last semester of senior year. I'm very excited for Photography2 :) During my T.A. class I learned how to make a ° symbol [hold down alt and type 248 into the number pad]. Cafe night is tomorrow night. I'm considering going, I feel like it would be a nice relaxing addition to my week. I would miss campaigners though, which I also want to go to. Grrrrrrrr. I sent in a request to work a Compassion booth at an event coming up in February. I want to do it so badly. I'm waiting for a reply, but I just can't wait. I sent in my ImageShop resume last night. I can't wait for a reply to that either. It seems like the perfect college job for me. We'll see. I'll keep you updated :) I'm going to bed early tonight. 10 hours of well deserved sleep. Well I'm off to go clean a bathroom, wish me luck...

More mylifeisaverage...

• Today, in the foyer at my high school where everybody eats lunch, our Principal began reading Green Eggs and Ham aloud. By the time he was finished, a large group of students had gathered around him, listening intently. I love my high school. MLIA

• Today, I toasted my bread using my hair straightener because I live in a dorm and toasters aren't allowed. MLIA.

• For lunch today me and my friends went to tacobell, we decided to go through the drive through backwards. When we reached the cashier he said hed never seen anything like it and gave us our food for free. MLIA
  

And an awesome verse...

2 Timothy 22-25

Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. Don't have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord's servant must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth.

just.a.day.at.the.office.

I'm at my dad's work right now this very second! He's engrossed in a meeting and has left me alone with the computer. Today I am a working girl. I went to some of my dad's meetings with him, travel mug in hand. I answered "nothing to report" whenever they came around the table to me. I was invited to lunch with the ladies. They were so darling, I just loved it :) Ooh ooh ooh I also got to play with a $29 million simulator. I scrammed the power plant, and then brought it back to power. Yeah, I rock ;) I got career advice from Vic Parrish, CEO. Bam. I met so so so so many new people. My dad is one lucky guy to work with this funny diverse group. I never realized how big energy northwest was. My dad seemed to know someone in every random department we wandered into. I'm loving it, and feel so welcomed :)

I have talked to so many people today about careers and different areas of engineering. I've pretty much decided that engineering is the path for me, and coming here today has helped me better understand what the different types or engineers do, and what will fit me best. Gosh, it's still so stressful. At least most of the people I have talked to have told me that once I start taking engineering classes, I will start to see which path is best for me. Comforting.

This is more for my sake, because I have found myself with a lack of pen and paper all day (and the manager's phychologist recommends blogging my discoveries), that I will list out some of the things I have heard and learned and do not want to forget. It will always be here. On today's blog. Jan. 25. And it will most likely make absolutely no sense to you haha. So here we go...
Mental Notes:

• First of all I love this song: Priscilla Ahn ~ Living in a Tree .
  
• Ideo.com


• WSU ~ Basics of computers Cyber Security?
  
• join study groups/do intramural sports.


• take some of the engineering classes early, then senior year isn't as hard.


• look at monster.com for example jobs of what certifications are required for positions.


• programming ~ interactive web pages


• hands on, interface with clients, networking. Also can go cybersecurity.


• Information management under computer science.
  
• Thank you so much Tracey, Denise, Desiree, Andy, John B., John S., Dan, Michael, Jacque, Vic, Joe, Eric, and Dean.

Sidenote because, yes, I'm random...
watch this. best movie and song ever. seriously. its in my top five. treasure planet baby.

.3 Months.

To do list today:
.church.
.brunch.
.tj max.
.disciplehip.
.yoga.
.karli's room.
.leftovers.
.julie and julia.
.blog.
.bed.

Everything got accomplished! Thank goodness. I worked on decorating my journals for school [photographed to the left]. I went to Bethel for the first time today. Loved it. The Ward's pancakes are marvelous. TJ Max is the best place to get a deal. Discipleship was needed as always. YOGA. Oh my gosh I tried it for the first time today. Honestly, I couldn't take it seriously the first 20 minutes and silently laughed quite a bit. Thank goodness Andrew was there to laugh with me. Everyone else got waaaaay into it. The room was boiling, the huge man next to me was on the verge of falling during every balancing challenge we faced, Jessi "farted", the best position we did was bouncing up and down on our butts to "stimulate" our brains (literally laughed out loud for that one), tried the hissing cat position, and the slouching cow position, and ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT ALL :) As goofy as it all was, I felt great afterwards, and had a great time. Hopefully I'll be able to go again. A great day with Jessi, and I'm ready to go to bed early so I can get up early and go to work with Daddy-O in the mornin :)) Until next time...

My Life is Far From Average

Have you ever visited the site mylifeisaverage.com?

Okay, so in web design we visit it a lot because it is one of the few sites that the school hasn't blocked. Here are some of my favorites...

• Today, I wore Axe body spray. I wasn't tackled by any women. MLIA.
• A fortnight ago I finally solved my rubiks cube. I waited two weeks to post this so that I could use the word fortnight. MLIA.
• Today, I realized the word bed actually looks like a bed. MLIA
• Today, I decided to tan on the balcony. I took my top off and my neighbor came out and saw me. He's a guy. So am I. We greeted each other. MyLifeIsAverage.
• Today, I saw a commercial for the Snuggie. I thought it was stupid idea but I couldn't change the channel because I was under a blanket and I didn't want my arms to get cold. MLIA. [done this]
• Today, I met a girl named Unique. She has an identical twin sister. No one else thought it was funny. MLIA.
• Today, my boss passed me in the hall at work and asked me "Do you have a sec?". I was trying to be flippant and replied "I have tons of secs". We both pretended I didn't say that. MLIA. [done this]
• Today, I renamed my iPod "This ship" just for the pleasure of seeing the phrase "This ship is syncing" MLIA
• Today, in Science class my teacher asked us what we thought of when we heard the word "evolution". I thought of Pokemon, but I didn't say anything. MLIA.
• Today, I learned that when you transport something by car, it's called a shipment, but when you transport something by ship, it's called cargo. MLIA
• Today I slipped in the shower and tried to grab onto the water to catch myself. It didn't work. MLIA
• Yesterday, I didn't forward a chain mail. Today I'm still alive. MLIA
• Today, I only shaved the parts of my legs I knew would show through the holes in my jeans. MLIA [done this]
• Today, I realized that Mario is definitely homeless. He wakes up every day wearing the same clothes, runs around in sewers, beats up people for their money, and what does he spend it on? Mushrooms. MLIA
• Today, i was working as a cashier at a grocery store. A woman came through my line and bought some Land O Lakes butter. As i rang it up my screen showed "LOL Big Butt" I couldn't stop laughing. MLIA
• Today, i met a runner. His name is Walker. MLIA
• Today I ran out of both my shampoo and conditioner at the same time. I've been waiting years for that to happen. MLIA
• Today I married a supermodel. Our house is huge and has a pool surrounding it. All the other Sims are jealous. MLIA.
• Today I was playing scrabble with my parents and little brother. The only letters I had were p, e, n, i, and s. Guess what word I put. Spine. MLIA
• Today, I realized I was blowing on my ice cream, because it was too cold. MLIA
• Today, I got a letter in the mail with no return address. I opened it to reveal a Hogwarts acceptance letter. Whoever sent me the letter, I love you. MLIA
• Today, I passed a car which had one of those "We Are The Proud Parents of an Honor Student" bumper stickers stuck onto the back window. I then passed another car with a similar sticker, only this one said: "We are the proud parents of a child whose self esteem is efficient enough that he doesn't need us promoting his minor scholastic achievements on the back of our car". I don't know who you are, random parents, but my hat goes off to you. MLIA [I will do this]

Predictable

you'll always find me

[wearing comfy shoes]

[with a huge bag]

[with bible and notebook]

[ipod and camera nearby]

[wearing friendship bracelets]

[purity ring]

[torn jeans]

[singing]

[embarrasing myself]

[messy hair]

[with a smile on my face]

What should I focus on?

...what's right in front of me? or should I look beyond that.

Right in front of me. hours of studying. finals. sickness.

Beyond that. college. career. family of my own.

I'll focus on it all. But its been hard for me to think of the future.

Will I be in college when the rapture happens?

Happily married?

God's coming back soon.

and I just can't wait.

I want to tell everyone.

These are the words I would say.

Sidewalk Prophets - The Words I Would Say

Three in the morning,

And I'm still awake,

So I picked up a pen and a page,

And I started writing,

Just what I'd say,

If we were face to face,

I'd tell you just what you mean to me,

I'd tell you these simple truths,

Be strong in the Lord and,

Never give up hope,

You're going to do great things,

I already know,

God's got His hand on you so,

Don't live life in fear,

Forgive and forget,

But don't forget why you're here,

Take your time and pray,

These are the words I would say,

Last time we spoke,

You said you were hurting,

And I felt your pain in my heart,

I want to tell you,

That I keep on praying,

Love will find you where you are,

I know cause I've already been there,

So please hear these simple truths,

Be strong in the Lord and,
Never give up hope,
You're going to do great things,
I already know,
God's got His hand on you so,
Don't live life in fear,
Forgive and forget,
But don't forget why you're here,
Take your time and pray,
These are the words I would say,

From one simple life to another,I will say,Come find peace in the Father,

Be strong in the Lord and,
Never give up hope,
You're going to do great things,
I already know,
God's got His hand on you so,
Don't live life in fear,
Forgive and forget,
But don't forget why you're here,
Take your time and pray,
These are the words I would say,

H Duck trademark Ruben

20th day of the year. 20th post of the year.

I've kept up so far, what about into June? Will I have 180 posts and pictures? Thats the plan :) Today I had coffee [not really haha] with some very special girls. It is so refreshing to have God show you things and be able to share them with others. Good conversation. I can't wait till next time. I called in sick for work tomorrow. I've never called in sick in the year and seven months that I've worked at Albertsons. I think I've earned it, because, yes, I am genuinely sick. Tait and I tried to diagnose my symptoms on webmd.com, some weird stuff came up haha but I have decided its just a cold. Maybe a sinus infection. All I care about is my raspy voice. I think its sexy ;) Singing high notes in the car [by myself] was also a plus. The pitiful noises coming out of my mouth were enough to make me lol out loud. My mom got two new Needtobreathe cds for christmas and I've been listening to them. They're absolutely wonderful. I love music! If anyone need some new music to add to their library, just ask me, I've got tons of suggestions :) My ipod lives by my side. Tomorrow I'm going to 5th period, then home. Andrew might come visit, but other than that homework, studying, more homework, and more studying for me :/ Thats all I got, until next time...

So many shoes...

...more like ISSUES, TISSUES, AND gosh nothing else rhymes with shoes haaha [I even checked rhymezone.com]. I didn't realize I owned so many shoes [I guess I'm just the typical girl]. The ones in the picture are only half of the footwear that fill my closet. It's absolutely ridiculous, but I wear most of them right?

As for the issues and tissues, well this is finals week, and I have come down with a cold :/ Not ideal, but I will survive. Meryn's blood sugar went down to 36 tonight. Its the worst feeling in the world when you mom tells you your sister's blood sugar level was 400 at lunchtime, and 36 after school [typical blood sugar level is around 100]. I was with her all day, and I didn't even notice. Am I a bad sister? I want to help her so much, but sometimes I just don't know what to do...

I am currently [completely, slightly and overly] obsessed with Boyce Avenue. They make me love overplayed songs on the radio because they turn them acoustic. Check them out. I truly like them all, its hard to pinpoint a favorite.

I am so ready for second semester. It should be somewhat of a breeze [which should help with my senioritis I was diagnosed with sophomore year]. My Forever21 order came in today. That's a positive. Oh, and we're having croissants tonight with some yummy Costco chicken shtuff. I think I'm going to go eat some right now actually. Until next time...
P.s. To AlL My ReAdErS :)
Thank you for reading my blog! I love hearing that people acutally read it and enjoy it. It makes it even more fun to write and take pictures knowing people are reading my posts. Thanks!

Here's a verse worth storing in you memory...

Philippians 2:14

Do everything without complaining or arguing.

VacPump Dressing Large Quantity:8

Deuteronomy 15:11
There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land.

I woke up this morning.

I considered going back to bed.

I got up anyways and mapquested Tim's directions.

We left a little late, but finally got to the building.

We were instantly prompted on what we were packaging, how it helped, and how to package it.

They were medical pumps that would help doctors perform open-wound surgeries in Haiti.

These doctors will be in locations half the time where they don't even have hospitals.

They will set up tents, and have the surgeries in them.

The reality of it all hit me right there.

The destruction down there is real.

100,000 reported to be dead.

My mind cannot even wrap around that number.

My handwriting on boxes [VacPump Dressing Large Quantity:8] is going to be read to get to supplies TO SAVE LIVES.

Such a small part, packing boxes full of medical supplies, labeling, taping, and weighing, will make a difference.

Giving up a couple hours of my Monday morning will help save lives.

Most high schoolers slept in this morning.

I almost did.

I only hope that everyone has an opportunity to help somehow.

Make an effort.

Start something at your school.

Anything.

You live a life of luxury.

Do something to make a difference...

...for the thousands who don't.

When the future is a little foggy...

My future is foggy.
I'm not sure what I want to do.
What career path to take.
Funny that came up in discipleship today.
Whatever I do, I'll do it for God.
I'll be the useful tool in his toolbox.
Not the one put back.

Tradition

• Family
• Fondu
• Presents
• Snowflake Pudding
• Laughs
• Memories

I look forward to it every year. We haven't missed one yet. So what if christmas comes a little late sometimes :) Good conversation, catching up, and an authentic snuggie to match my backpack chair...

Friday the 15th

"Yesterday is History, Tomorrow a Mystery, Today is a Gift, Thats why it's called the Present"

Yesterday;

school.albys.headache.new rims.homework.guitar.
Tomorrow;

sleep in.more chores.family coming.albys.guitar.christmas #2.
Today;

bright sweater.toilet.chores.toms.music.value village.mall.my boy.techno.movie.girls night.

Tea and Sympathy

If you are cold,

tea will warm you.
If you are too heated,

it will cool you.
If you are depressed,

it will cheer you.
If you are excited,

it will calm you.
~ Gladstone

Vanilla Chai

Organic Chai

Good Earth Original

Chamomile

Constant Comet Green Tea

Awake Tea

Afternoon Tea

Black Tea

Holiday Tea

Perfect Peach

“Come, let us have some tea

and continue to talk about happy things.”

Take the Long Way Home

Have you ever forgotten the freezing point of water?

Have you ever woken up in the middle of the night and thought it was morning?

Have you ever tried to take a contact out of your eye, when it wasn't there?

Have you ever drank milk straight out of the carton?

Have you ever slept from 10pm to 5pm?

Have you ever forgotten a password 10 minutes after you create it?

Have you ever mixed four cereals together?

Have you ever chewed gum so long it disintegrated?

Have you ever eaten a whole bundle of celery in one day?

Have you ever sneezed when you pluck your eyebrows?

Have you ever talked about poop for 40 minutes?

Have you ever had a bald teacher whose head gets tattooed everyday with the overhead words?

Have you ever had a bee stuck in your hair?

Have you ever said "that's what she said" in a normal sentence, and then silently laughed to yourself?

Have you ever learned a tribal dance from an authentic Navajo?

Have you ever changed an alternator and a water pump on a car?

Have you ever had your glasses smashed in tether ball?

Have you ever left in the middle of class to get Slurpees?

Have you ever been hit by a car on your bike?

Have you ever screamed songs at the top of your lungs?

Have you ever sleep walked from the floor of one room to the top bunk of a bed in another room?

Have you ever taken notes and had no idea what they meant?

Have you ever bought $14 worth of Sonic food in pennies, dimes, and nickels?

Have you ever thanked God?

Have you ever regretted things, or been proud of things?

Have you ever been completely satisfied?

I HAVE.

Time after Time

"Parents spend the first part of our lives teaching us to walk and talk, and the rest of it telling us to sit down and shut up."

Time is going so fast. Every year its speeds up. We're currently chugging away at 500mph. Tomorrow will be 600. Except 6th hour. When I have to pee, but can't hand over a bathroom pass, forfeiting extra credit points. Going to bed early tonight. 6:30 sounds nice. I'll get up at 4 to do homework don't worry. Till next time...

What I'll Miss

When I leave for college, I’m going to leave behind and miss dearly:

My parents- I’ve gotten so close with them this last year, and it only makes it harder to leave. I think about it every day. It’s the only reason I don’t want high school to end.
My sister- She is my best friend. We've gotten close in the last year too, and I'll miss her crazy randomness every day I'm gone.
My best friend- Me and Jessi won't be close in distance when we go off to college. Once a month we will meet at a coffee shop meeting halfway between our schools, and we’ll write letters all the time, and call each other, text, facebook, blog, gosh anything to keep in touch. I’ll miss her so much.
My friends leaving far away- Seniors graduate and move on to colleges all across the U.S. The chances of seeing most of them ever again is slim, excluding class reunions. I have gone through elementary, middle, and high school with some of them and seeing them every day is so normal to me. Soon it won’t be. It’s weird to think about, and I’m definitely going to miss a lot of them.
My wittle fwends who are still going to be stuck in high school- I have so many underclassmen friends and I’ll miss the fanbase ;)
My car- My beautiful, fierce ‘97 Camaro who has been through so much with me will sit at home for a year until. New stereo system. Sitting. Brand new rims. Sitting. New brakes. Sitting. Dad will take her out for some exercise so I’m not too worried, but I’ll still miss being queen of the road.
My cat- That quirky little spud who I throw around and chase will miss me too. Her life is going to be so boring with me gone and no one to play crazy fighting games with.
Warm weather- Pullman is cold. COLD. And I love warm weather. Not a perfect match, eh? I will miss the relatively warmer weather of the tri-cities, but I’ll survive. An excuse to buy cute jackets, gloves, and scarves, right?
Work- I’ll miss hilarious coworkers, seeing the regular customers, and walking home after a late shift with my daddy.

Closing my eyes

"To one who has faith, no explanation is neccessary. To one without faith, no explanation is possible."

That is the only way to describe it. Today's sermon at church talked about 2 Corinthians 4:18 and it made me stop. I reread it a couple times and I liked how it said this world is temporary. I forget sometimes. But it is. Don't get wrapped up in worldly things, because does it matter in the long run? No. Will those things be up in heaven with you? No.

2 Corinthians 4:16-17

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.

Thinking about heaven is so exciting. Today was just one of those days that God showed me verses on how I will be rewarded if I keep living my life for him. Rewarded with a rich life. But more importantly rewarded with the promise of heaven.

Conversation: The flow of reason between two induviduals

I have a twin.

Her name is Jessi Strecker.

I met her this summer.

Kinda like in parent trap lol.

We even met at a camp, like the movie.

I'm not sure why God waited until my last year of high school

to put her in my life, but I'm so glad he did.

Having someone who has the same goals in life, and same view is incredible.

We lead parallel lives.

I wish everyone had a friendship like us.

Similarities:

• Same hair
• Same urban, boho style
• love old couples
• like crispy bacon
• love romantic movies
• had unique means of transportation
• shop regularly at Value Village
• knitting fanatics
• addicted to trying new teas
• awkward dancers
• our mom's are both teachers
• our dads love motorcycles and play the same computer games
• are in love with God
• we love popcorn and marshmallow jellybeans
• read each others minds
• love taking pictures
• are paid to take pictures ;)

There are so many more, we just forget them because we think of so many every day :)
Differences

• Jessi hates tomatoes/Laurel loves them (especially plain w/salt and pepper)
• Jessi has small feet/Laurel has well, bigger feet haha
• Jessi knits at a slow and steady pace/Laurel knits like a freak
• Jessi hates WSU/Laurel is going to WSU

A flow of reason between two induviduals? I always know that if I need advice, Jessi will give me some. I know I won't have to consider her morals, because we live for the same purpose and reason and she won't offer something that is wrong.

The Office: Get Your Scrant On

The Office, gosh do I miss it. I can't wait for the new season to start. Thursdays will continue to be dissapointing until they do. Today was a half day, interrupted by two fire drills. Oil leaking from the ceiling, something like that. No good. After school I went with Alex and Lizzy over to Kamiakin to deliver Mr. Judy some comida. I got to see my Andrew and most of the gang. Karli's hug made my day :) Went to work for a couple hours, nothing interesting today surprisingly. Courtesy Clerk is a very happenin job, so it surprises me when something weird doesn't happen at work. After work I did some online shopping. Its terribly addicting, I don't recommend it. I went to see Leap Year. I absolutely loved it! It was one of the cutest movies I've ever seen. I'm definately taking Mom to that one. Me and Jessi snuck in our travel mugs of tea. We so sneaky ;) Plus Andrew and Jarett were working so we really didn't have to be that sneaky lol. Had the priveledge of driving El Papador's car again. I might just trade him, except for the fact that its an automatic. Still drives good though, lowered, and purrs like a lion. Kamiakin Braves vs. Richland Bombers basketball game tomorrow. I might stop by haha.
Had a heart to heart with Jessi. On my drive home I listened to klove radio and I asked God to play me a song. Driving at 1 am this song came on. I immediately broke into tears.

Third Day ~ Tunnel

I won't pretend to know what you're thinking

I can't begin to know what you're going through

I won't deny the pain that you're feeling

But I'm gonna try and give a little hope to you

Just remember what I've told you

There's so much you're living for

There's a light at the end of this tunnel

There's a light at the end of this tunnel

For you, for you

There's a light at the end of this tunnel

Shinin' bright at the end of this tunnel

For you, for you

So keep holdin' on You've got your disappointments and sorrows

You ought to share the weight of that load with me

Then you will find that the light of tomorrow

Brings a new life for your eyes to see

So remember what I've told you

There's so much you're living for

Biggest Lie in America: "That was my last piece"

We cast spells from a Toyota Corolla at children walking home from school.
"Stupefy"
One child retaliated.
He chased our car with a stick.

I'm eating chicken pot pie for the third day in a row.

By choice.

I'm eating it cold this time though, changing things up a bit.

I tried out Roasters Coffee today and absolutely loved it.

I hope there's a coffee shop with that atmosphere up in Pullman.

Taking my daily picture today made me sad.

I extremely dislike [hate] winter, cold, and dying flowers.

Another song I'm lovin: What I wouldn't do: A Fine Frenzy

I got my first Associate Recognition today!! I'm "courteous and polite" hahaha banked 5 Alby bucks :)

Now all I have to do is get Employee of the Month and i'll have all my goals at Albys checked off before I go to college.

One of my favorite things at work is when I give a shy kid a sticker and their face just lights up with excitement. They go from hiding behind the parents legs to talking to me, and its all because of a silly sticker. That happened today :)

I gave Colton a haircut.

We weren't on the same terms before the trim, so I'm not sure if he's all that satisfied...

Gary's sick so I'm praying he gets better by Saturday so he can go to Avatar with Matt.

I recommended Fairchild, sorry Carmike, their reclining seats are irresistible.

and finally, despising the winter season we are in reminds me of this verse

2 Timothy 4:2

Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage with great patience and careful instruction.

Flaming Ninjas

Reigndeer games were a blast today. Flaming Ninjas got First Place! We kicked some bubblefish bootay ;)
Drank lots of cocoa and cider and sat on the sidelines because my tailbone is still outta whack from sledding haha.
Hotties [handwarmers]are essential for outdoor sports.

I had the priveledge of driving the rumbling bimmer to Campaigners, she is definately on steroids cuz her voice is deeeeeeeeeeeeep.

I wore my wolf sweatshirt today, Nick and I matched in wolf attire.

I'm officially obsessed with Hey, Soul Sister by Train.

I FOUND THIS QUOTE TODAY AND IT MADE ME THINK:
"Going to church doesn't make you a Christian any more than standing in a garage makes you a car."

I feel like I used to be that christian.

The christian who goes to church, but only goes, because thats what christians do, and thats what my parents do.

I mean I enjoyed it, and believed everything that was taught, but I never took it quite deeper than that.

It honestly took me until this last summer to completely dive in and go for it.

My reward?

A relationship, with our creator.

I have new eyes to see the world with.

He gave me a best friend, which is exactly what I have been needing. He knew.

Everything is positive, and its so easy for me to make the best out of situations now with a good attitude.

My dad hit a rim on a curb on an ice-rink of a street, and now I will need to get 4 new rims because we can't match up the one that was damaged.

But I like my old ones.

But instead of being negative about the fact that I can't have my favorite old rims anymore, I just realized that its a car.

A car.

The rims we're buying will look awesome, and I know they'll grow on me.

But again, its a car.

I realize that its great the fact that my dad can provide me with new rims so I can keep driving. Some families would not even be able to do that.

Everyone is safe. No one was hurt.

Life will go on, and if I pout, well thats just stupid.

So instead God helps me realize that the situation is not terrible at all.

No complaining :)

Revelation 21:11

Having the glory of God, its radiance like a most rare jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal.

The real trouble with reality is that there's no background music

* Mort [Cactus] looks gloomy. He needs some sunshine, and a knit hat.
* Ruben made a blog today. I'm so proud.
* Set Fire to the Third Bar. Enough said.
* I'm craving me some Treasure Planet.
* My car is still immobile.
* Non-fat Lattes were a mistake.
* "Hello, my name is Olivia Diaz. Welcome."
* Uganda meeting tonight. Life-changing trip in my future?
* Wearing glasses when you give a speech does help your grade ;)
* I started a new hat today. I wish people would just try knitting club for once. Goal: Have at least 2 guys join before the end of the year haha.
* I want blue plastic owl earrings.
* I'm ready to give Goodwill another chance. I'm awfully fond of Value Village at this point though.
* Toms have excellent arch support.
*All I want is some robin egg blue sky; I don't feel like that's asking for too much...

1 Timothy 4:12

Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.

Gift that Keeps on Giving

Proverbs 19:7

He who is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward him for what he has done.

Today it rained, and apart from going to Plato’s Closet with Tess and attending a Gov. meeting, my day was rather bland. This being so, I would like to introduce you to Melvin. He is my sponsored child in the Philippines. Deciding to sponsor Melvin was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Not only is he benefiting, I am benefiting just as much if not more. He inspires me when I read his letters he sends to me. “May we know each other better as time goes by.” The fact that someone across the world who I have never met is excited about getting to know me absolutely blows my mind. It’s totally a God thing. I will never be able to read Jeremiah 29:11 anymore without instantly thinking of him. I am so happy that my money that I make can go towards bringing someone out of poverty and closer to God. My absolute dream is to go visit Melvin one day, it is a $4,000 trip though. Yes, a problem for someone working part-time at Albys. All I can do now is pray for him, and I ask that anyone who reads this does too. Pray for all children in poverty. Pray that they have an opportunity to learn about God, understand his love, and know that he has “plans to give you [them] hope and a future." ~Jerimiah 29:11

This is one of Melvin's favorite verses:

Romans 8:28

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Failing Ink

I learned how to replace an ink cartridge today! It makes me wonder who thought up of a printer. Like honestly, the technology behind them is fascinating from the puncturing of the cartridge to the metal chip that relays back to the computer how much ink is left. I want to work at Kinkos now. Flippin copies. Jessi came over and we made Chai tea mix. Winco Original Recipe :) I'm just trying to finish up my last bits of homework because today is the last day of winter break. I didn't do everything this winter break that I wanted, but I sure did keep it jam packed. It was relaxing and much needed. Getting back into the swing of school might be rough, but i'm ready for it. I miss Mrs. Baird and my web design buddies. Until tomorrow...

Matthew 20:16

So the last will be first, and the first will be last.

Italian Mix

Went to work today. A four hour chunk of fun. Vanessa bought me a hot chocolate, and Shannon was very chatty which was nice. I bought some delicious pickled vegetables. Jessi thinks they sound disgusting, but trust me, they're to die for ;)Afterwards father picked me up and we headed to Les Shwabb to see if they have a rim to match the one that got cracked by our car skating incident. Hopefully they'll find a match. We went to Value Village after that and I found an amazing poncho and a windbreaker that matches my Spicy Orange Vans :) An overall satisfying day that will end with a family movie night featuring Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs and Italian Mix Giardiniera.

Matthew 17:20

I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.

Brand New

Doesnt that sound nice. Brand New. It's a new year and starting today I can set goals for the year ahead. Not procrastinate on homework. Bible reading everyday. Stop spending so much money on shoes :) Always be "that positive person" at work. Find something to be thankful for everyday. And write it all right here in this blog. My best friend and I are challenging ourselves (Of course its a fun challenge that we will enjoy). We're not in pain as we blog down something interesting that happens every SINGLE day :) We're going to blog every day little things that happen, or interesting things we learn. We're going to include an original picture that we will take ourselves as well (because everyone loves picture books/blogs better than just lame writing haha). It's a chance to be creative. To express ourselves and not forget memories we make everyday. A way for us to stay connected as we go on to college soon. I'll miss her so much, but I know our friendship won't dissolve because of distance. That doesnt happen with best friends.

Isaiah 40:31

... but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.