Things that amaze me...

Know what's amazing? ...God...He's amazing!

2011-06-27T23:49:00.000-05:00

So I'd just like to revel in the fact that I serve the most amazing Being ever. Ever there was, ever there is, ever there will be...ever.

God is too good to me, and I find myself overwhelmed with His blessing and faithfulness in my life. It seems that I find some reason daily that I feel like He should throw in the towel on me, but He never does...He just chips away at those imperfections and flaws...He reminds me that I am His and that I have value. He reminds me that others have value too and that I need to appreciate it more. Oh to see the world as He does...to see each individual as God Almighty sees them, to see their innate value, to see their humanity, to realize their suffering and to be able to love them as He does. I pray to grow more in this area...I long to, I need to, I have to. God, teach me...mold me. Make me more like Christ.

So thankful to be His child!

How about you? Are you thankful? Do you know how much value you have? Do you know how much value God sees in you? Can you say you're thankful to be His child...?

He is there waiting...all you must do is ask...believe on Him and allow Him to start chipping away at you...it's so worth it.

To my MOST beloved Sister!!! I love you bunches!

2011-05-29T21:38:00.000-05:00

Celebrating 200 posts together!!!

2011-05-28T13:01:00.000-05:00

So I just realized that this is my 200th post on this blog! Wow. I had that much to say? Somehow I'm sure most of it wasn't really all that important to life as we know it, but I really appreciate having had somewhere to express myself. There have been times in years gone by that I leaned heavily on this blog as a form of self expression. I suppose it's not been as much for others as for myself, but I think that's OK. For those of you that cared enough to follow me, or for that matter to leave your comments and feed back...thanks! It's been fun.

Now, for the future! I'm newly graduated, still single, formulating plans for what's ahead of me and seeking God with renewed fervence. All in all, I think I'm at an important point in life...in fact I was told by one of my professors that I'm prob at the best point in my life ever, that I've been learning so much about who I am and what's what in college, that now I'm at the point to see how I'm going to let it all affect me.
I'm out on my own and ready to see how I will proceed from here on out. Life's in front of me and the choices are mine. Whoa. Overwhelming in some ways. Crazy exciting in so many others. Thankfully though, God is in charge of my life, so I find myself a little less scared and a lot more excited with the anticipation of it all.

So go...live...be an impact and be impacted...but always remember where you've come from and Who you're following...

New inspiration

2011-05-27T10:00:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to post a quick link to my new devo blog. It's called He Still Amazes Me! I'd appreciate any feed back you'd like to give. Thanks for checking it out. God bless!

Yeah...that's right...I did it!

2011-05-18T22:28:00.000-05:00

My debut...

2011-05-01T12:27:00.001-05:00

-- Sent from my Palm Pixi

Tiffany is...

2011-04-26T10:28:00.000-05:00

- sitting in class looking like she's taking notes (sorta)

- tired of homework...but should probably do some

- stoked about graduation but not actually ready for it!

- thinking about running a lap around the room quaking like a duck just to see what happens...

- amused at the reaction to large hair...specifically mine...today...

- actually dreading IHC...and excited about it...maybe

- against cruelty to animals...unless they bite me

- friends with a Guatemalan

- picking her no....! *chuckle*

- going to run away to Greece (don't come looking for me!)

- finding a new love in Urban Outfitters

- afraid of life without her sis...

- single and currently rather happy about it

- sore from the gym *whine whine complain*

- going to be a billionaire and travel the world

- secretly taking over the world...*SUSH! Don't tell*

- longing to cuddle with a puppy...all her own

- craving sushi

- the owner of a Ford Contor

- a size 2...*hehehe*

- actually not single...dating a vampire means secrets...oh wait!

- drinking Dunkin Doughnuts home brew

- gonna quit while she's...

Forever Alone, Unmovable Stone...

2011-04-26T10:02:00.000-05:00

Forever alone, unmovable stone.
These letters-a picture they paint,
but whom sees the picture
and how can they know,
The meaning that it should impress?
Thus-I shall tell you,
lest your image be untrue.

First see the person alone and so lost.
No one will comfort or care.
But if you look closely-
so closely inside,
you will find something not there.
Inside is her heartache, a feeling so true,
yet much different from mine and from yours.

Unmovable stone, something strong
and for sure, everlasting to the end.
These her feelings, but what do they mean?
Here lies the answer to all of these things.

When a heart learns to hurt,
and never moves on,
then decides this always must be,
this is the stone that never shall move
and her heart is as this-
All alone.

Run screaming through a crowd...

2011-04-19T10:37:00.000-05:00

As I'm sitting here listening to the rain against the window and the occasional clap of thunder, all I can think about is curling up in bed with my most comfy pj's and a good book. What is it about these kind of days that just bring on that desire? Actually I'd pretty much rather do anything than continue sitting in this class...well or than go to work. Homework even sounds more appealing at the moment. *sigh*

I love thunderstorms. I woke to a great one last night. Well technically it was about three o'clock this morning I guess. It woke me up in time to close windows, and then lulled me back into the most amazing sleep. Then of course I end up with an obnoxious alarm bringing me back to reality, but I too must join the land of the living.

Hopefully if the rain hasn't washed away all the grass seed Nichole put out this past week we'll see some fruit from her labor. I'm a bit skeptic though thanks to the let down last summer. We worked crazy hard in that back yard, and the result ended up being that the summer was crazy dry and the grass didn't make it. Let's hope this summer is better.

So I started a new job last week. I think I'm going to like it, but I'm still in limbo. The lady seems great, the kids are nice enough, but she's already changed my schedule several times and that's going to get old I think. I'm blessed to have the extra income though.

OK, so I've been doing a lot of thinking lately and I've been trying to find out what God's planning for my future. A lot of what I've always thought I'd be doing, or perhaps even hoped I'd be doing, has changed. I feel like I'm starting to have some direction and it's exciting, but also rather scary as well. So if you care to, feel free to remember me in your prayers as I'm trying to find God's will and continue in the steps He leads.

Anyway, guess it's back to class...sort of. Maybe I'll escape and go play in the rain...

Tiffany presents: * Vampires On Ice

2011-04-04T12:44:00.002-05:00

So I realize that there's been a growing trend in the last several years, a trend of which I haven't been a part...vampire fiction. It's not exactly a new idea, I mean Dracula wasn't just written or anything, but it's been a "revisited" idea I suppose. I also realize I'm sort of coming in at the end of this noble enterprise, but I still think I have something that no one else has to offer.
After having a lull in entertainment recently, and desiring something completely mindless (as opposed to my school work, which I try to use my mind for...usually) to read, I decided to try the Twilight series everyone was sooo into my Sophomore year. To be honest, at first I was assuming I wouldn't make it through the first book, but then to my chagrin I was pulled into the awkward, ever so dramatic world of the Cullen's. Now by this point I wanted to finish the book, but did NOT want anyone to really know I was enjoying it...mostly. I found it rather juvenile, but exactly the type of "mindless" entertainment I was looking for. I did/do find Bella to be utterly obnoxious, but alas, she is part of the story! Actually my personal favorite charter was/is Alice Cullen. I finished the first book, moved on to the second (Wow Bella...really?!?), and am currently on the third. I've lost momentum at this point and have not picked up the third book in over a month actually, but I'm about halfway through it, or possibly a little more. Anyway, so this is where my vamp interest began...

I moved from reading those books to wanting to re-watch the movies. Unfortunately for my search I was a cheapskate and had no intention of renting them if I could help it, so I started with the internet and Netflix. Oddly, Netflix doesn't have them for instant play, so I gave up on that idea, although through my other internet searches I came across several vampire inspired movies and shows, most of which I was not in the least bit interested and were horror anyway. One of these showed was called Vampire Diaries. I'd heard of this book series from my cousin, but did not realize they'd made a show out of it. Curious about it, I decided to check it out. I'd heard it argued that VD was the original vamp drama and that Twilight had been a knock off of it. I didn't necessarily buy this idea, but I wanted to find out.
After watching just one episode of VD I was intrigued. I liked their take on a few things, such as the ability to walk in the sun, the way one becomes a vamp, etc. So I kept watching. I have to admit, I have become a bit of a junkie. I love the show. It's crazy dramatic, yes...but I guess there are days I'd rather watch other drama than deal with my own. It's a nice distraction I suppose.
Anyway, I eventually ended up with a free rental coupon and got Twilight, and I have to say...it's MUCH cheesier than I remembered the movie being. It made me laugh at it multiple times...I'll still probably finish the series out eventually though.

All of this has gotten me to thinking though...there's still a market out there for "fresh" ideas about vamps, and ways to sell vamp fiction. Well I have one! I want to put together a show...I'm thinking either a musical or an ice skating theatrical performance...or perhaps combine the two! It's gonna be big...I just know it! So if any of you have ideas for pulling this together, experience with musicals, ice skating, or vampires PLEASE let me know...I could really use your help. I'm not sure how many vampires can ice skate, or for that matter sing, but I'm sure with a little patience on everyone's part we really can teach them and pull this off.
I'm also going to need help finding an ice rink that doesn't mind cleaning up a little blood now and again, people with access to either a blood bank or something of the sort, and possibly a little Verbane. Oh! And anyone that has extra wooden crosses, or can whittle steaks would be greatly appreciated as well.

I know we can make this happen, so thanks in advance for all your help and support! I'm super excited to see where all this takes us, and what our futures together holds. Who knows, maybe this show will become one of the classics, and just think, you'll be able to say you were a part of all of it! Thanks again...

Much love!

-Tiffany
*copyright for this ice production belongs to Tiffany Barr

Damon, Elena, and Stefan from Vampire Diaries

Five twee-zay!

2011-03-26T20:28:00.000-05:00

Last night I had so much fun! I went to Winter Jam with two friends and had a blast. I really love how they can mix complete entertainment and fun, with deep reverence and worship and come out with the right balance.

Tony Nolan did such a great job with the message portion of the evening, the performers were all really great (Newsboys were stinkin' FANTASTIC), KJ-52 was an awesome hype man, and the speakers were deafening. I love loud music, but I always leave concerts feeling like I'm yelling and everything I'm listening to is under water.
I rather enjoyed Kutless's version of It Is Well, also liked the new people I'd never heard before, and feel in LOVE with Jason Castro...or was it just his dreads? Hmm...well either way he was great.

Which brings me to my next point...I'm thinking about doing dreads this summer. Before you start into how dirty they are or how gross your hair has to be to do them...PLEASE KNOW WHAT YOU'RE TALKING ABOUT. That's simply inaccurate. Anyway, I was hoping for a little feed back about thoughts on this. Also and feed back from people that either have them or have had them and can share pros/cons would be great!

So back to Winter Jam...I met KJ-52 after the concert and bought a CD/tee combo, so I had him sign the CD. I got a pic too, but it wasn't on my camera, so I'll have to add it once I get a copy. It was great though. I wish he'd have been one of the main acts, but alas...twas not so. Anyhow, it all made for an enjoyable evening.

What have YOU done lately?

Blue in the face...

2011-03-14T20:11:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I just sit back and ask myself why? Why do I bother? Why do I care? Why do I try? Why should it matter? Why did I think it'd be different? Why does this always happen? Why do I get involved? Why me? ...the list of "why"s is seemingly endless.

Tonight I've pondered most of the above, yet I'm still sitting here with no answers. The fact of the matter is, I may never have answers to those questions. That's not important though.
Yeah, right now I want them. Right now it's important. But in the end it's not usually the why that matters, it's the who...or rather Who matters. If I weren't dwelling on me, my problems, my family's problems, my friend's problems...if I were concentrating on the right Person, then most of this would seem so small. I'd be able to gain the right perspective on things, to leave my worries in more capable hands.

This is so hard for me to do...I all too often forget that it's not really about me and my concerns, that there's a much broader picture and I need to ask for the eyes to see it.

God,
I ask for you to ease my troubled mind, and to help me lean completely on you and not on my own understanding. My finite mind gets so easily hurt and confuse, worried and upset...but you care about me deeply and I ask for you to give me the ability to look beyond my own life and to see Your greater goals and purposes. Teach me through life's experiences I pray. I want to be more like You. I love You.
Amen.

Put on a little moisturizer...

2011-03-12T12:53:00.000-06:00

This morning my sister and I hosted another one of our Saturday breakfast/devotional gatherings. Nichole had decided to try something new for breakfast, so of course I staggered out of my bedroom to begin my morning in a mild haze of smoke...she'd already burnt something. See Nichole has this theory, if you're in a hurry when cooking...put it on high. *sigh* Thankfully it was just a trial run she'd been doing on some stove top hash-browns with sketchy directions, so nothing was lost and it all actually turned out to be quite delicious. The end result was actually breakfast pizza, but all the various ingredients had to have a little prep work done before the final oven baking ensued. (I'm excited! There's leftovers!)

Amanda was the first to show up, followed shortly by Sonia, then finally RaeLynn and Christianna joined us. Once the gang was all there we enjoyed a little chit-chat with our breakfast, then began with praises and prayer requests. If you should happen to need things to pray about, apparently most of us are focused on finishing out the semester without failing anything, simply getting through it, and hopefully caring a little more about what we've got to do than we did today. Oh the prayers for passion about something that you're just burnt out on! Sometimes it's just sooo hard to care. Thankfully God understands this.

Anyway, once we finished with this part of our morning it was time for the devotional. I had asked Amanda to share with us this morning and she had graciously complied with my request. Being the teacherly-minded person she is, she came prepared with a lesson plan complete with a visual to represent each point. The whole thing was super cute and she just did a fantastic job putting it together. The lesson was entitled Beautiful Woman In Christ (by Julia Bettencourt). I won't try to give you the whole thing, but the idea behind it was a comparison of beauty products for the physical body and the same idea behind those products for the spiritual body.
For example: Amanda had foundation with a label that read, "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee." (Psa 119:11) Then the application she put on it was, we need to start with a good foundation and what is better than the Word of God? If we have the Word of God in our hearts the rest of our spiritual make-up can be easily applied.

I really thought the whole thing came together quite nicely and I loved the idea behind it. It was a great reminder that sometimes we get so caught up in the physical appearance, but there are just as many ways we need to take care of our spiritual selves and these are far more important to God. I hope these will serve as a reminder to myself and the girls that have heard it, and that we can share the ideas behind it with other ladies in our lives. We all impact someone, let's work to use this impact to share God's beauty and desire for our own spiritual beauty!

I didn't know if anyone that read this would want to see the whole lesson, but here's the link to the website: Beautiful Woman In Christ (by Julia Bettencourt)

Jus somethin' ta think about...

2011-03-07T20:36:00.001-06:00

-- Sent from my Palm Pixi

The winds of change...

2011-03-07T17:16:00.001-06:00

or rather "The breezes of revision" maybe? Needless to say, I feel a draft. Today it's rather chilly, but I'm hoping for warmer climes as the month progresses.

There are only so many weeks of this semester left...and it's starting to really sink in that this (if managed correctly), is my last semester of college. Now granted there's always possibilities of grad school, etc etc...but at this point in life I have no plans for such things, so this is it...the whole enchilada, the big finale, the kit and caboodle, or the final farewell perhaps...eh, that last one seems a little "deathy" for this. Anyway, the point is, my world is fixing to change and need to have some adjustments. I'm not entirely positive what all that will entail just yet, but at the moment I'm finding it both exciting and terrifying. I've known this day would come for quite a while now, but it's just that it's here...only weeks away. Now what? I feel like my subliminal self often stands in the corner just scratching her head at my lack of plans at this point.
It's an odd sensation for me to not know what I want to do or where I want to be...I've had all that figured out since I was nine years old, but lately it just feels like it's all abandoned me and left me waiting. I keep hoping for a painting to start moving, my twin to die, or one of my visits to the train museum to bring to light the location of that blasted Platform 9¾! *sigh* But sadly none of this has transpired as of yet...besides if I did happen to stumble into the right wardrobe I'd be so frustrated when I stumbled back out only to be faced with the same questions I left waiting...

Death of a hobby

2011-03-06T18:31:00.000-06:00

So I've been thinking. I don't like that blogging seems to have gone by the wayside. Well at least in my life it has...so I'm hoping for a comeback. Mostly for my own narcissistic reasons, but I'm ok with that. *shrug*

Life these days is mundane to say the least. Albeit my mind has had several rampant, repetitious trains of thought lately. These usually pertain to the questions of my future and what lies beyond this murky haze of a present. Sadly there has been no direct response to the questions I've asked the universe, but I'm still hoping for my illusive 42. I do know however that whatever answers the universe may conjure up will be of little value to me in the end, and I also know where I ought to be directing said questions in the first place. So do not fret, dear reader...I am in the progress of addressing this misdirection in my life. Feel free to invest in this endeavor however you so choose...

To any whom so desire, I'd love for you to comment about whatever may (or may not) be happening in your life.

-TKB

Tidbits...

2011-01-08T18:36:00.000-06:00

I finally got most of Cheryl and Chris's engagement pics edited and a good bit of the edits are on FB, so the link is for those that are interested.

I also posted pics of a day with some new friends. It was freezing out, but we still had fun.

To top all this off, I've created a YouTube account and posted a few videos. I need to update it, but haven't recently. You can look me up under Livingthislifeyo.

Finally, I'd like to give a shout out to some of my favs on YouTube! Check out Rhett and Link, Julian Smith, Charlie is so cool like, and last but not least Nigahiga.

Hope you're all recovering from the holidays. I find that while I look forward to them, they're not always as relaxing as I'd imagined. I rather enjoyed mine, even though I put in over 32 hrs of drive time during break. Guess it's back to the world of classes and work now. Take care all!

In case you didn't know...

2010-09-07T10:34:00.000-05:00

I realize it's been awhile since I've really taken the time to get on here and update about life. Seems it's always just quick posts of videos, links, or something else. So, allow me to catch you up a bit...

First off, this summer the Barr clan decided to divide and conquer. I traversed into the great unknown (for me anyway) of Haiti, leaving Nichole behind to hold down the fort in Cincinnati. Our parental unit decided it was time for the other children to cut the apron strings from their older siblings and head toward southerly climes, this landed them in Lexington, NC. So to those of you that knew and loved dear 560 Maple...alas, it is ours no more.

It was definitely weird to come back to Cincinnati after being gone 6 weeks, only to realize that everything had changed while I was away. (Well, OK, CE was still on Central, I still owned a Contour and we still didn't have a dog, so I suppose not everything had changed.)
It was rather hard to adjust to the fact that my family was no longer just a few minutes from my house though. I mean after all, they did move just four days before I left, so my brain wasn't really registering it up til then.

Anyway, they actually rented a U-haul. Amazing right? It is if you know my family at all...we've moved in everything from make-shift boat trailers, to a short, white bus (talk about making a first impression!). I actually have a few pics from the process...

They technically tried to move partly in a convenience trailer, but something went a rye with the axle or something. I was at work by that point and didn't really understand the whole story, but they ended up having to leave that loaded trailer behind and they came back for it like a week or so later.

Oh, and here's a pic of the cool door Dad was leaving behind and I had Nichole snag for photo ops.

Lastly, here's Dakota's "moving day" face.

I have lots about Haiti to try to fill in, but today's not the day. Also, I have a few other random, interesting tidbits and stupid moments from my summer. I'll try not to be too long with my next installment...but if you're interested in my trip, there are several posts on my internship blog at: www.portauprincepostings.blogspot.com

I'm trying out a new web toy...

2010-09-06T23:22:00.005-05:00

...well, it's new to me anyway. You can see for yourself at: Tumblr

For all you VW lovers out there!

2010-08-11T17:34:00.005-05:00

If you wonder where I'm at...

2010-06-18T23:30:00.000-05:00

check www.portauprincepostings.blogspot.com

And so begins the journey...

2010-06-16T06:46:00.000-05:00

Just before 3am this morning I had a visitor...Alanna Smith. Wonderful girl that she is, she volunteered to take me to the airport. No one really wanted this job since my flight left at 6am and was leaving Dayton.

Thankfully, she was up for the job. In fact, she went above and beyond the call of duty and got a pass so that she could sit with me and see me off! What a friend!

I'm currently sitting in the DC airport, waiting to board. Things seem to be on time and moving quickly...I'm getting really excited!

I'll keep you posted as possible...

A leave of absence...

2010-06-12T01:16:00.000-05:00

As of Wednesday, June 16th, I will be heading on my first ever, out of the country adventure! I'm incredibly excited...and of course nervous. I'm hoping you all will be praying for me!

I just wanted to let you know that I'll be neglecting this blog during the time away. Well, most likely anyway.
I won't be returning stateside until July 28th. You can, however, try to keep up with me via FB or my new blog that's specifically for my trip. The addy for that is:

http://portauprincepostings.blogspot.com/

I hope you will look me up ever so often, and please leave comments -- who knows, maybe I'll be crazy home sick and it'll help. (...or make it worse, but I'd rather have the comments than not.) =]

Anyway, hope you all have a good summer. I'll be back with stories to regale you with in no time, I'm sure. Take care(and feed Hewy for me)!

Finding my inspiration...

2010-05-25T03:08:00.002-05:00

I was just taking a look at some of my old photo albums on FB, and I couldn't help but feel a little inspired. I need to get back out there with a camera. I miss it. Here's a link to the album that inspired me:

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=145098&id=526240420&l=058c6b8fcb

This is DEF. my fav photo album ever!

Here's a peek at a few of my most recent photo shoots...

2010-05-25T01:46:00.000-05:00

Kimberly Brown's senior pics and a few of her with her roomie, Lauren. Thanks girls, I enjoyed it!

Check out this link for the full album:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=221456&id=526240420&l=d42c88089b

My cousin wanted a photo shoot in Cincy before he moved back home, so we had some fun with it. Nichole even joined in with a matching tee for a couple pics. I think they enjoyed giving each other a hard time...brought back a little of our childhood...

Check out this link for the full album:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=219604&id=526240420&l=908820c1d9

That pretty much sums it up. I'm hoping to try to do some more soon, but unfortunately my dear Doris is no longer with us, so I'm waiting until I can find a replacement.

Come to the USA!!!

2010-05-25T01:05:00.002-05:00

Two options...

2010-05-19T17:13:00.004-05:00

Regret is a terrible thing - wishing to go back and change things, feeling haunted by one's past, fearing it will catch up with you.

There are so many things in life one can regret. It's amazing how many ways one person can mess up -- so many ways this person has messed up.

Even more amazing -- how easily those mistakes can track you down.

Perhaps it's not even your own mistake. Maybe it's that of a friend or family member, but it haunts you and hurts you.

Maybe the shame is yours.

Maybe it's a shared shame - maybe you're ashamed in someone else's place - perhaps it's a stupid action - or maybe it's simply a lack of action...there are so many possibilities it boggles the mind.

Today has my stomach in knots. It's rolling from regret. Regret in misplaced trust. Regret for poor decisions on my part. Regret in not taking action.
Along with regret, I often face fear. Today's fear - fear of my past. Fear for my future.
I've felt this fear before. It's consuming, it's sickening...yet -- it's got to be given to God.
The vulnerability must be given to Him, the regret, the fear, the all-consuming, sickening fear in the pit of my stomach...that has to go to Him. Otherwise, I'm lost.

I find myself uncertain of where to begin. Uncertain of how to move forward. Uncertain of myself. Uncertain of so many things.
This time I'm different. Life's different. Things are already messed up. It's just an addition. More to the load. Another of Life's turning points. I'm none to eager to turn...to reach for those bootstraps...yet there are only ever two options...

Gaga unleashed...

2010-05-09T17:58:00.003-05:00

I just enjoyed the enjoyment they seemed to be getting from this. Life should be lived in good humor...and this is.(FYI: no, I'm not advocating Gaga. She's ridiculous.)

Ode to the Cleaning Lady

2010-05-06T15:37:00.002-05:00

Repetition, repetition
All day long.
Repetition, repetition
Going strong.

Repetition, repetition
Fold those sheets.
Repetition, repetition
Again next week.

Repetition, repetition
Dust that room.
Repetition, repetition
Where's my broom?

Repetition, repetition
Missed a spot.
Repetition, repetition
Thanks a lot!

Repetition, repetition
Scrub the shower.
Repetition, repetition
Don't make squat per hour.

Repetition, repetition
Room by room.
Repetition, repetition
French costume.

Repetition, repetition
Wet the mop.
Repetition, repetition
You high school flop.

Repetition, repetition
Same thing each week.
Repetition, repetition
To bad you aren't a Gleek!

Repetition, repetition
Sing a little louder.
Repetition, repetition
Gotta pass those hours.

Repetition, repetition
Stupid cat!
Repetition, repetition
Chase it with the vac!

Repetition, repetition
What a life.
Repetition, repetition
Wishing money was rife.

Repetition, repetition
Gotta pay the bills.
Repetition, repetition
This job makes me ill.

Repetition, repetition
All my days.
Repetition, repetition
Windex haze.

Repetition, repetition
Family maid.
Repetition, repetition
I smell like Glade.

Repetition, repetition
For the cleaning lady.
Repetition, repetition
Probably do this til I'm eighty!

I just had to share this with you all...

2010-05-06T15:33:00.002-05:00

Check out the 2010 Bad Poetry Contest, only going through this week! Funny stuff. Send something in, who knows maybe you'll win! Anyway, at least enjoy the laugh.

http://www.chipmacgregor.com/

Epic fail:

2010-05-02T22:00:00.000-05:00

Vicious circle...

2010-05-02T18:12:00.004-05:00

“Insecurity leads to a lack of action.
Lack of action leads to a loss of opportunity.
Loss of opportunity leads to regret.
Regret leads to longing to change something.
Longing to change something leads to desire for the impossible.
Desiring the impossible leads to hopelessness.
Hopelessness leads to vulnerability.
Vulnerability leads to helplessness.
Helplessness leads to insecurity…”

A bit about the 'burg (Gatlinburg, that is...)

2010-04-30T16:41:00.006-05:00

Recently I went with a group of around 29 GBSers to Gatlinburg. It was a missions retreat, and boy did we retreat!

I went on this same trip with a different group of students during my freshman yr. I wasn't sure if it was wise to try to enjoy the same basic thing twice, but I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed the time away. It's always nice to refresh and refocus with fellow believers, especially when surrounded by so much evidence of our Creator.

The cabin we stayed in was the same one I'd been in previously, but the beauty of the mountains around us still caused me to stand in awe. We serve such an artistic Creator!

We enjoyed several times of hiking in and around those mountains while we were there. Our hope to hike in Berea, KY on the way home was dampened *chuckle* by the persistent rainfall we had follow us most of the way back. (I would def. recommend hiking there if you're into that sort of thing!)

Along with hiking, we did some shopping, just hung out together, and had some great times of fellowship.

Mr. and Mrs. Keep, along with Mr. and Mrs. Glick, shared with us each day. We had a morning and evening session each day we were there. They were encouraging and helped challenge us in our spiritual growth.
The things shared were so applicable, and the time of singing and worshiping together was beautiful.

I often think about how those are the moments I want seared into my brain so I can look back on them when the hard times come.

I can still recall several things that Andrea Whiteman(then) shared with us my freshman yr. and I know I've used and called on those memories. I pray God uses this weekend for a long time to come in my future.

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A couple things to note, I am no longer American...my roomies turned me Kenyan.

I stayed with Nichole, Lornah, and Olivia O. I had a blast with these girls!

They shared about their families, they shared music, they answered probably a billion questions, they tried to help us...um, find a "sense of rhythm"...and over all just were great roomies.

In return, Nichole and I taught them valuable things like how to get a trucker to honk at you, and what having your blankets ripped off your bed (after you've snuggled down of course) feels like.

We sang loudly and off key together in my car, and probably listened to every genre of music...including several country selections after Olivia asked us for something "exotic". I think Lornah appreciated it though...I mean whats not to like about Josh Turner's voice after all?!

Another point of interest were the times spent in the car. We had quite a bit of that, so we decided they needed to be livened up. We tired of singing and grooving after a bit, so that's when the whole "get the trucker to honk" thing started in, but there weren't enough truckers around to satisfy us...so we improvised!

We pulled up alongside the other cars (we had a seven car long caravan!) in our group and tried to get them to honk for us. Mostly they just looked at us funny and waved, but I noticed a trend amongst the Glick cars...they all honked. In fact they were the only cars to honk for us. THANK YOU GLICKS!

We also did some other things such as, wrote signs to hold up for the other cars, they read things like "Have you seen my Llama?" and on the other side I believe there was a reward offer for it. We had one with the basic message of the Bible...I mean we were a group of caravaning GBSers after all!
Another time we had stopped due to traffic, so everyone in our car put an arm out their window and we flapped/swam/rowed for awhile.

Needless to say, we had fun together and enjoyed our time away. God blessed us with His presence and blessed us with a wonderful, enjoyable trip!

FYI:

2010-04-24T01:36:00.002-05:00

To any who care...

I'm working on an update from my recent trip to Gatlinburg(or "the holiness Mecca") and just a bit of what's new in my blasé life.

Patience - it's a virtue.

Don't Feel Like Dancin'

2010-04-24T01:16:00.000-05:00

Living with strangers

2010-03-04T15:04:00.002-06:00

Today I realized something. I spend most of my time in homes of people I know little, to nothing, about.

Don't get me wrong, I don't walk into random houses and hang out. Usually these are people that either my friends have worked for, or my various employers know or have some relation to.

I find myself dusting pictures of people I don't recognize, so I make up stories about their lives. I give them personalities based on their smiles, attire, and posture.
Sometimes I learn their real names, like when my newest employer took me from room to room introducing me to every family member via photograph (very proud mother/grandma - I remind her of her fourteen yr. old grand daughter...she said it's my enthusiasm).

The funny thing is, I probably know more about my employers than they'll ever know about me.

I watch them interact with those around them - friends, spouses, children.
I notice their selection of books (there's a story in itself!).
I see their individual styles and now recognize it as I walk through stores.
I know what they're particular about and what they'll never notice.
I see what movies they like.
I know their birthdays based on the arrival of cards and gifts.
I know what religion they are (or aren't).
Their pets recognize me.
I know almost every inch of most of their homes, from the basements up.

All in all, I know and practically live with a bunch of strangers. I know facts and family, but I'm in the dark about their dreams or their goals, their fears and nightmares. And the truth is, they know even less about me.

I care about them and their lives, about their eternal souls...in fact we've talked about my faith, but ultimately we're still strangers, there are unwritten rules of conduct - what's OK and what's too much. There's an invisible wall that separates our lives...and for that matter society and the classes separate us.

Some of the places that I'm most comfortable in aren't even my home...I spend most of my week living with strangers.

Image courtesy of: www.billfrymire.com

Per request of Mrs. Eavey...

2010-02-04T12:54:00.001-06:00

Yo-Yo Ma, Dasani - Lime essence, and The Message

2010-01-14T15:09:00.003-06:00

At this present moment I am sitting at my comp, listening to Yo-Yo Ma & The Silk Road Ensemble. I like it. There are a few pieces that lose me, but for the most part, I'm finding it relaxing and soothing.

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Has anyone out there "in radio-land" ever listened to/read any of Mary Higgins Clark? If so, are they any good? Also, if so...which ones? I was looking at some at the library, but wanted to ask someone that would be familiar w/them for a good one to start with.
I'm trying to read some new authors, so over break Nichole assigned Ten Little Indians by Agatha Christi to me for our little challenge. (Joc, Nichole and myself each picked a book for the others to read over break.) I liked her, so was told to check out MHC, but no specific one was suggested.

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So, favored water isn't usually my thing, but I'm starting to like some of Dasani's...even though it's taken like a month and a half for me to finish the left overs from the TE party. They were given to me, which was exciting...until I tried one, but at this point I've drank enough of them to actually like them. The strawberry/kiwi is now gone, so I'm working on the lime. Will I buy more? No.

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This semester is off to a good start. The first week I already felt like I was behind, but things are starting to level out.

I recently spoke at Main St. Chapel, and I want to give God the glory for helping me. I seemed like the service went well, and I was pleased with the outcome. God really helped me.
Also, that same Sunday, I was blessed with the opportunity to lead a little girl in the sinner's prayer. Her name is Lisa, and she really needs your prayers. I know God has great things in store for her, so let's just pray that she can dig in, and become a grounded Christian. I'd ask that you pray for me, as well as my workers, because we're quite probably the only Christian influence in her life right now.

Revival with Randy Brown has been excellent. He's full of practical, applicable messages, with just the right amount of humor. I'd like to have the messages he's given on CD. Think I'll bug Gumby about that.
I love Bro. Brown's "flair" in attire. Guess I just notice snazzy ties & suits that aren't always black.
"Gotta dress well in case they don't think you preached well."

First night of revival, I was leaving my room to head to the chapel, and as I was looking for my Bible I just grabbed the first one I came to. This happened to be the copy of The Message I picked up, over Christmas break, at Family Christian. Seeing how he spoke from 1 Samuel that night, and my copy was NT only, it turned out to be a fruitless effort on my part.
Now my reasoning for mentioning this...anyone that's read much of The Message, what are your thoughts about it?
I have a hand out from Doc. Brown, so I'm not looking for the argument for or against it, I was just wondering what you, personally, think about it, and perhaps in what context you would/wouldn't use it.
My family discussed it a tiny bit on Christmas, and I just enjoyed the discussion.

Actually, branching out, what translation of the Bible do you use, or prefer? I love reading/comparing various translations. I think I most enjoy the NASB.

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Oh! Would anyone want to give me the Photoshop elements 101 by chance? Or perhaps point me to a book/website that they've found helpful? I've been tinkering around with it, but I'm feeling quite a bit lost to be honest.

One question...

2009-12-29T12:03:00.001-06:00

Who decided that giving Dakota weapons for Christmas was a good plan?

Think ppl! In this, we all suffer! Ping pong ball gun, refill darts and ammo belt for last year's gun, suction dart shotgun, outer space noise maker gun, real bow and arrows, and I'm starting to consider the hot wheels track a part of this list...

I know I missed something, but you get the general picture...think Saving Private Ryan, and come rescue me!

Just for you...

2009-12-27T11:22:00.003-06:00

"Sisters. Sisters. There were never such devoted sisters..."

I finally bought (although I'd never seen) White Christmas. I rather enjoyed it...
"Lord help the mister who comes between me and my sister, and Lord help the sister, who comes between me and my man". hehehe

I would call our Christmas this year a smashing success. Everyone seemed to like what they received and enjoyed giving what they'd gotten for each one, but more importantly than all that, we really enjoyed each other.
We had a great lunch, played games, watched movies, and just generally loved each other. I am so blessed by this fact. I realize there are others out there that didn't have such a pleasant and loved-filled holiday, and so I want to continue thanking God for His goodness to me and mine. He's been so faithful to us this year.

I've been noticing some changes around our home. Don't worry, they're the good kind. I don't care to share them here, but I do wish to acknowledge them and once again thank my Maker for His care and concern over every area in our lives. Do feel free to pray for our family though, as we may have some big changes headed our way, but that's not for certain yet.

All in all, I think this coming year holds great potential for myself, my family, and my friends. I wish you all well as you ring it in, and can't wait to see you once you return from your various places of escape.

Be safe, love God, and HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone!

Love,
Tiffany

Tis' the season...

2009-12-17T12:40:00.001-06:00

We finally had everyone home at the same time last night, so we managed to decorate the tree - which, by the way, turned out to be a "Fraser" fir not to be confused with "Fraiser". *that's a knee slapper all right...huyuck huyuck*
I think it turned out quite nicely, even though Mom and Dad turned down some of my more "creative" suggestions for homemade decorations...

This year should prove interesting since Dakota has discovered what mistletoe. He keeps standing under it just waiting, and waiting. If you venture to visit, beware of the doorways.

I, personally, feel much more festive since I'm almost done with all my shopping(finishing the rest today I think) and have most wrapped and under the tree. *Phew!* Too much wrapping...but I did get a little more into it than the norm this year. I bought ribbons and bows, tons of paper, boxes, and bags...they're turning out quite nicely if I do say so myself.

All in all, I'm very thankful to be enjoying this Christmas season with my family.
Hope you all are too!

The crunchiness...

2009-12-07T20:59:00.002-06:00

...it's that time again. Everything is due, nothing is done(not really true), and not a bit of it holds my attention.

Ok, so the Christmas program is over. I'm glad to be honest. And no...I don't plan to be in it again next year. I'm now retired. It feels good.
I think things went well with only a few rough spots here and there.

This weekend was just far too busy for my liking, and it left me absolutely exhausted! I slept for close to 5 hrs. this afternoon just in recovering from it all.

I had to cram a bunch of class stuff into Friday, and then of course that was the first night of the program too.

Saturday I worked cleaning for what seemed like forever, then did some Christmas shopping, which to be honest I had been dreading for a multitude of reasons, after which I raced back to take care of a couple odds and ends b/f rushing to the program again. After Sat. night's performance I went to a Megan's house in order to spend some time w/Val since she was staying there...and of course we didn't get to bed until 3ish.

Sunday I rushed back for the service at the school...and let me say, it was well worth rushing for. God's hand-tailored that service for me I think. After that I got to meet Mr. and Mrs. Fraizer finally, and then later I went to my ministry, which Lauren so graciously agreed to plan out this week -- heaps of blessings on her head! -- and then back in time for a few more odds and ends b/f yet another performance. *Phew*...and that was my weekend...

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Tonight I have just finished putting together and typing out my final two devotionals for Major Prophets class, along with filling out my reading logs and writing the reflection for that class. I'm thinking I might post one or two of my devos from that class actually...

I'm also working on filling out Christmas cards, cleaning my room, and wrapping a few of the gifts I bought on Saturday.

So much to do, so little time...

*Remember...only you can prevent forest fires.*

The kiddnapping that never happened...

2009-12-04T16:53:00.003-06:00

I don't know my words to my songs for Christmas choir...and that of course is my own fault. I have no desire to go sing tonight, but that's exactly where I'm headed as soon as I post this. Not to mention my lovely congestion that just keeps hanging on for dear, sniveling, life!

Leanna REALLY wanted to hang out tonight...might partly be due to the extended curfew.

Midnight.

Sharp.

She's not in the program, or going to see it tonight...but everyone else is. The plan was for her and Cesar to conk me over the head and then toss me into a car so we could hang out. Oh well, what can I say? My friends are lousy kidnappers, so I suppose I shall go Bible(ify) myself...

Tiffany is...

2009-12-01T15:45:00.002-06:00

-up to her eyeballs in tissues

-tired of doing school work in general(especially math and Wes. Civ.)

-excited about the ppl she invited to come to the Christmas program

-munching on homemade Chex mix...it's the BEST!

-putting off some homework

-thankful for God's provision

-wishing for a puppy

-hoping she'll remember the words to sing this weekend

-dreading the coming cold(er) weather and the snow it brings

-impatiently awaiting the arrival of the newest Profitt

-feeling her southern pride today

-homesick(sorta)

-really wanting to watch Bones

-really hoping to see part 2 of the Monk finale this weekend...dumb continuations!

-not a fan of Walmart(horrible place for compulsive shoppers!)

-still studying Proverbs

-now done with this post

Wishing you some holiday cheer!

2009-11-27T16:51:00.002-06:00

Well, it would seem that the cold is finally upon us. I'm not gonna complain though, it is Nov. after all, and this isn't Florida. Besides, I've been told that I'm more of a winter person...as far as clothing goes that is. (Makes me wonder if that means it covers my "not a size 6" body better.)

I will admit to having a love for hoodies though. They're the best part of the winter...well, next to ice skating, but I can do that year round anyway.

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I think I ate more at lunch yesterday than I have in an entire day since school began. I enjoyed it as I was eating, but then afterwards I was miserable. I haven't eaten anything since. I'm still not hungry...and it's supper time on Fri! But MAN was it good! I sooo love my mom's cooking.

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I'm studying the book of Proverbs right now, and I'm enjoying working through it again. I want to be a wise woman of God, and I know God desires that for me, so we're working on it together.

God's been so faithful to my needs this semester. I know He's always been there for me -- providing as needs arise -- but I think my eyes have been opened more lately to how many different ways He works in my life. I've been very grateful to belong to Him.

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Things are fixin' to get even more busy in the next few weeks around GBS. Finals, the Christmas program, work of course, and the other normal business. I can't believe how fast this semester has gone. It's been a fairly good semester, even though it's def. had it's highs and lows.

Just want to take a moment to list some of the things I'm thankful for:

-- God's patience and unconditional love
-- My family (we're in it all together)
-- My friends (they love me regardless)
-- My jobs (I don't love cleaning, but I like keeping my bills paid)
-- My car (it's only had minimal probs so far, and for that I'm very grateful)
-- My D-group (they're amazing women of God and I love them all)

Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving and have a wonderful Christmas season!

“Christmas gift suggestions:
To your enemy, forgiveness.
To an opponent, tolerance.
To a friend, your heart.
To a customer, service.
To all, charity.
To every child, a good example.
To yourself, respect."
~Oren Arnold

For those w/o Facebook...

2009-11-10T10:24:00.002-06:00

I posted some new pics to one of my FB albums this morning, and since I just enjoy this album so much, I thought I'd share it.

I realize there are a couple of you (*cough cough Kimberlee cough*) that don't have FB, so here's the link:

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=145098&id=526240420&l=058c6b8fcb

I'm thinking about printing these out and creating a real photo album of them. (Random!) Anyway...enjoy!

* Warning* Chai and McRibs do not go together...

2009-11-09T17:41:00.005-06:00

in fact, you could completely do away with all McRibs and never bother me.

OK...this is kinda a long post. But I'm not going to apologize b/c I'm not sorry, I'm just long winded. Be glad I'm not a preacher...specifically yours.

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So -- last Tues. I spent 6 hrs. standing outside in the cold. I was passing out voting issue info flyers, but admittedly I was mostly in it for the money. (She said unashamedly.) I've found myself needing to make up hours lately and it's been interesting to see how God's been working that out.

Actually, I rather enjoyed myself for the most part...except for the freezing part.

I stood across the street from the local Church of God...can't remember it's full name, sorry. So this was pretty much my view for 6 hrs...

There were several interesting things that occurred, some funny, some odd, some sad.

First, there was Sarah. She seemed normal enough, but was scanning the sidewalk for something.
Curiosity caused me to ask how she was doing and if I could help her find whatever it was she was looking for.

"Fine. Just looking for a battery."

I finally noticed the camera in her hand. It seemed nice enough, but nothing amazing. I just assumed she'd dropped a battery and was retracing her steps. As I started looking with her, she mentioned that she'd found one, but it'd been the wrong size.
Only then did it occur to me that we weren't looking for her battery, we were looking for a battery.

At this point I was thinking, wow...you've really gotta be into photography to wander the sidewalks searching for random, stray batteries. (Artists...right?! Wrong.) After awhile she wander off, and I lost track of her...

Now enters a nameless man. He wanted to know what I was passing out. I explained and showed him.
When he saw the flyer about keeping the casinos out of Ohio, he latched on. From here he preceded to give me every possible reason that they're "a bad idea".
I agreed with him for the most part...some of it made no sense so there was nothing to agree with, but what really amused me was his coffee cup -- Texas Hold 'em Champion.

I was enjoying talking to total strangers, ppl that I would normally walk past and never think to chat with.
I share a city with them, and found the interaction with my neighbors fascinating.

Several came up with creative ways to avoid taking my flyers.

One guy went with the "flatter and distract" technique. Sadly, it worked.

"How you doin' Beautiful?"

Followed up with a huge grin, I just had to chuckle, and shake his outstretched hand. After exchanging the normal, "Doing alright, how 'bout yourself?" I let him escape.
A couple others tried to sneak past, and when I talked to them anyway, they simply told me,

"No thanks, I'm a registered felon."

Interesting approach. *shrug* Hey, whatever works.

At this point Sarah was back, and I could hear her talking the guy on the corner out of a couple bucks. He wasn't interested in her offered camera though. She also wanted a ride, so with that they headed somewhere (yet again) out of sight.
I wasn't really thinking dedicated artist anymore. Maybe hard up and trying to sell that camera, but not artist...

Not much happened until she got back. Then she just hung around that corner. We didn't talk much, except to comment on the car that drove by on it's rim. (We'd heard it blow, as did the driver, but they decided to continue on anyway.)

I finally stopped for lunch and asked her if I could bring her back some beef stew. She didn't seem offended (which I'd worried about) but she said no. She informed me she was just waiting for someone...although, she used more colorful words.

After lunch, I was joined by Jocilyn...and not long after by a stray Pitbull.

It looked very skinny and hungry. Once it was within about 2ft. of me, I spoke to it, trying to warn it of my superiority.
It sorta jumped, as if it hadn't seen me there b/f which was weird to me, but quite alright. With that it wandered away...only to return via the alley directly behind me.
This disappearing and reappearing act continued for about 15-20 min. until it was finally gone for good.

My cousin, Ashley, and Stephanie Stowe joined us a little after this. The day was rather boring after this though(too bad for them).

Oh, except for the concert I went to that evening - BarlowGirl/Superchic[k]. I had a blast! Thanks for the ticket John and Ashleigh!

Well, I suppose that's my Tues. in a nutshell, or on the web...whatever.

Wouldn't it be lovely?

2009-10-29T23:25:00.003-05:00

Today, as I gathered my usual array of cleaning supplies, I realized something I had just done - stepped only close enough to the "rag" closet to be able to lean way over, open the door, and stretch just a little bit more to retrieve a rag...

Why?

Well, because when I took this job(nearly 3 yrs. ago), Witney had mentioned that I should be aware she had seen a mouse in that closet...once.
It just makes sense that 3 yrs. later I realize this is how I've ALWAYS approached this closet, regardless of never having seen a mouse myself...right?

It's ironic really.
How many times do we receive warnings about this or that growing up?
If you think about it, the only ones we really heed are the ones we fear. We don't even have to have seen or been through certain things, but we can still fear and avoid them.

Kinda got me thinking...wouldn't it be lovely if we had a real fear of sin? How different would this world be...?

Haven't met you yet

2009-10-18T14:49:00.002-05:00

Check out this new Michael Buble video. I love this song.

The girl in the video is his real girlfriend, which I thought was kinda cute. Anyway, it's currently my favorite song...

Never eat sushi from a vending machine...

2009-10-03T22:46:00.004-05:00

To be honest, I feel like not much has been happening in my life as of late...but then again, I feel like it's been crazy busy and too much has been going on. Ever feel like that?

Last night Charity was in my room for awhile, so I force fed her some poetry I dug up from the ashes. Funny looking back on stuff like that...I would def. say that poetry is one way I release "negative" emotion. Not often have I written a pleasant, and happy poem. Oh well, I suppose we all have(or probably should have) our ways of release.
And no, I won't be posting those poems(well, I doubt it at least), and yes, I told Charity not to recap on them to anyone. (Truth be told, I don't really care. They are what they are.)

I got to enjoy some live music at Caribou Coffee tonight. That was the 3rd coffee shop I was in today. I went to Coffee Emporium with Charity b/f work this morning, and then stopped at Iris Bookcafe to grab some amazing, Thai pumpkin soup on my way home from work, and of course Caribou Coffee this evening. Leanna really wanted to go to CC, so she went alone to work on homework, and then Cheryl, Chris, and myself met her there later. It was fun. I loved the music. It was def. my style, and captured my mood tonight quite nicely.

B/f going to CC, Cheryl and myself went to the mall with some friends. Our express purpose was to procure some food court Chinese. (this being the most authentic and everything) That was fun, but I find shopping a lot more fun when I have money to burn. Like that's ever happened...me burn money -- not on purpose at least.

Oh! Today was Mr. Profitt's B-day...so here's a shout out to him! Hope it was a good one.

I think I survived my math test. Kudos to me! Actually Kudos to Leanna for helping me study! She's AMAZAZING!!! Anyhoo...one down.

Here's a two quick pics I snapped of Meg with her guitar.

She was so kind as to play a song for me, and allowed me to record it. I posted it on Facebook, so check it out!

I also took some pics recently of Sarah and Britt, so here's a few. You can view the album at: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=157579&id=526240420&l=b2a8d43cd5

Well, here's hoping you've all had a lovely weekend.

The girl behind the camera,
Tiff

New places, new faces -- same Christian family

2009-09-20T23:56:00.005-05:00

This morning I was privileged to go visit a Korean Church, complete with a meal afterward. I loved it. The people were so very friendly. They were warm and inviting, and made it easy to feel welcome to their service.

I went with Chaehun (he's a Korean student at GBS presently), Andrea Balti, and Megan Walsworth.
I think it's safe to safe that we all enjoyed it very much.

We were each(not Chaehun...like he needed it!) provided with a device that allowed us to listen to the translator through headphones. I thought this was cool (even though it reminded me of the device Ms. Beulah uses at Kenwood to boost her hearing aid), because it allowed us to understand, yet not disrupt their normal service.

This particular church had a great praise team, and a choir that sounded absolutely beautiful. I really enjoyed the worship service, and was a bit surprised by it honestly. I guess I have unknowingly stereotyped most Asian cultures as being more sober and reserved in their worship style, but I thoroughly enjoyed being wrong. They were very expressive about their love for God, and there was quite a bit of clapping, etc.

After the service they have a time of fellowship and food together, which was great. I was excited to get to try the food, even though Chaehun told us it was good, but still not "real" in his book. I figure none of us knew the difference anyway, and to me it was way better than anything that came out of a food court! I won't even try to tell you the name of anything we ate, because I've no idea, but I can kind of describe it. The main course was a bowl of rice, bean sprouts, some beef, soy sauce, and green onion. Then there were plates set out between every four people or so that you shared, and on them there was some cabbage stuff. One lady described it as a spicy, pickled cabbage. Whatever it was, it was good. I liked all of it. One point of interest to me was that they don't drink anything with the meal, but instead waited until they'd cleared the plates and then passed out cups of water. I'm ok with that, but my mother would've choked to death.

During the meal, Megan and I were able to talk to several different people from the church. One man tried to recruit us to teach S.S. to some of their children, this is due to the widening language gap between their different generations. It's hard to express and explain a concept to children if they don't really speak your language obviously, so they're wanting fluent English teachers for the kids.
Another man that we talked with was very nice, and told us his home is always open to us. His wife, Sunni(sp?), is actually talking NT class at GBS this semester. When he told us we could come over anytime, he also said that she'd be happy to cook us some real Korean food, and when I mentioned his volunteering her services to feed us, she said that he was a very good cook. ;-D

All in all, I really enjoyed myself, and would love to interact with these people more, and get to know some of them better. I loved the opportunity to worship with some of my Korean Christian brothers and sisters. God's family is so big and diverse...I just love it!

Here are a couple pics I managed to snap on my phone...

Getting ready to dig in!

This nice lady was trying to show us what to use the spoon on, and what/how to use the chopsticks. (Nothing quite like trying to use chopsticks while surrounded by Koreans...)

This is Sunni...

...and Chaehun.

A little sharing of my heart...

2009-09-19T13:59:00.003-05:00

Does anyone besides me ever just really want to give up? Sometimes I just get so tired of feeling like a failure, or loser, or whatever other choice phrase you care to use. I know that God created me in His image, but man is the devil ever good at getting me down from time to time! All too often I'm tempted to second guess God and how He decided to create me, quirks and all.

Now don't get me wrong, I love my Savior. This is just me sharing about an area of my life that God's obviously still working on. Some days I feel strong and confident, and like I can conquer the world, but more often than not, I struggle with questions about my future and all my short comings.

Today is pretty much one of the later days. But God's still there, and He's given His Word to reassure me.

"God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created
him; male and female He created them...God saw all that He had
made, and behold, it was very good."
(Genesis 1:27, 31a)

Going out to K. R. and family...some of my biggest lurkers.

2009-09-16T17:13:00.003-05:00

I took some pics recently of the Martin sisters. Here's the album link:

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=156728&id=526240420&l=49cc707751

Oh, and here's the link to the other album I said I'd post, My Concrete Jungle:

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=145098&id=526240420&l=058c6b8fcb

I finally got new contacts

2009-09-13T16:41:00.004-05:00

along with several other odds and ends I needed(including, but not limited to, Skittles). I also bought new dry erase markers, but they weren't the kind I wanted. Oh well, I didn't feel like checking more than two stores...

So I finally snapped a few pics of my cousin, Ashley. I also got some of her and Joc, then a couple with them and their roomie, Stephanie.
I'm not gonna load all the pics on here, but here are a couple, and you can see the rest at: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=155885&id=526240420&l=94b0288cdb

Anyway, school seems to be going well thus far, but really it's hard to say because it's not like we're all that far into it. We've had several fun moments and events already though. Friday night we had the GBS Got Talent show, and that was a blast!
I laughed so hard that night, but I was also struck with the fact that in amongst our funny songs, poems, and "mad skills" we are privileged enough to hear things such as kids singing music that praised God, and kids simply sharing a Scripture reading. We are so blessed to be able to live our faith out in every day life without fear imprisonment, or other forms of persecution! I hope we never forget to be thankful for that.

Along with classes, revival, and the activities of campus connection month, we finally had our first meeting(since returning to school) of Main St. kids club this afternoon. I thought it went quite well. We had the good problem of too many kids and not enough snacks with us, so I had to run back to the dorm to get our back ups.
Thankfully we have a bunch of new workers this year, and I'm hoping that they'll all stay, because we're thinking about branching out from the two main streets we walk and adding a third route. We may also try to incorporate a second class during our kids service for the tweens. Not sure about that yet though.

It's a funny thing, working with kids...especially inner city kids. I can't put into words how much I love each one, and want to see them allow Christ to be their Savior. I missed these kids over the summer. They challenge me, and test me, but I know I need it. They've taught me so much this past year, and I'm excited to see what they have in store for me this year.
My favorite part of kids club is walking to pick them up, and then walking them home. This is because it's when I get to interact with them on a personal level. I get to become a friend to them. We chat, and laugh, and even play tag(which totally wears me out) on those routes, but it's then that I feel the most connected to them, when I'm in their neighborhood, walking their streets, going into their homes.
It's then that I see how important what we do is, and how important it is to show them that they can change their future. I just can't get away from how much God loves them. I pray that this year I can be a better example of His love for them.

Here's hoping you're all doing well, and enjoying God's goodness!

By: Unknown

2009-09-07T20:38:00.002-05:00

Ever wonder what will be remembered about you once you're dead and gone? Or to be a little less direct...once you've "passed away" or are "no longer with us"? (My little brother actually told me today that Lenny had "passed away"...and yes, sad but true - Lenny is no more. We're not exactly sure what caused his untimely demise.)

I assume most of us hope to be remembered in a positive way, perhaps for something we did, something we inspired, how we lived, or a culmination of all three and then some. (I don't suppose most people strive to be remembered in a negative fashion, but then again there are some coming to mind that might have been aiming for just that...I've no idea for sure.) All in all, though, people want to be remembered. They want their life to have meant something, or touched someone...

...so what will people remember about me? What legacy am I leaving behind? Will my life have mattered and changed anything at all?

I know God has a plan for my life, and I fully intend to follow it. Right now I don't know the exact specifics of that plan, but He has given me a peace about being at Bible college. I know this is what He desires for me at this point.

I know that if I stay true to Him I can leave behind a beautiful legacy, and I can change at least my little part of the world. In fact, as I sit here a thought just occurred to me, what if people don't remember me, but instead remember God's grace and mercy in my life? That would be an amazing way to "go out".

My new hope is to be Unknown for God.

Real friendship...

2009-08-27T10:20:00.000-05:00

An update

2009-08-25T21:38:00.005-05:00

on the Life And Times Of Tiffany Barr.

Sorry it's been a while. Wait...no I'm not.

My room is unpacked and arranged. Everything is in it's place, with the exception of a single bookshelf that is in disarray. I plan to fix that - eventually. I even printed out and framed some of my pics from this summer...and they're on my wall! Impressive right?

Moving on...

The freshman almost intrigue me. Half of me wants to get to know them and to befriend them, while the other half doesn't even want to try to remember their names. I did, however, help one of them put her hair up today, apparently she's never really had to wear it up - poor girl.

Three of the freshmen are related to me. Weirds me out. I'm in class w/two of them. That took me off guard. Oh well, I can play. It is, after all, my playground. I think between Brittany and I they're already wondering what they've gotten into in this particular class. They'll catch on - I hope.

Since when does GBS offer coffee for 7am classes...? And why wasn't it offered in my math class(which I'm taking against my will...sorta)? And why was it Starbucks?
I did reap the benefit(if you call Starbucks black coffee that) of it's, still hot, leftovers in my second period class. Thanks Mr. Profitt, and Ricki, and Joe, and Cravens girl who's first name is escaping me.

I love revival schedule. It confuses the freshmen. For that matter it still confuses the upperclassmen. (Is that really one word?)
Not to mention, it allows me to go to math class a half hr. later than the norm, and that friends is a plus!
Also, it's nice to have an opportunity to "refresh and refuel" spiritually before barreling head long into the semester.

Random thought: Bro. (Chris) Cravens is a great illustrationist. (I liked it better)
He also reminds me of someone, but I can't place who. Oh well, I'll try to place it while I head to bed...

(And to all you lurkers...now I know you're there. So HA!)

At the top...

2009-08-15T19:10:00.001-05:00

Just thought I'd post a couple pics of today's adventure - hiking Indian Ford trail to it's west pinnacle.

Ready or not -- here it comes

2009-08-11T17:29:00.002-05:00

It's that time again! A new semester is right around the corner...and I've been thinking(I'm getting a head start), I really, really want this year to be different.

Not the, "Oh-hey-I'm-gonna-try-to-do-everything-just-so-and-never-mess-up" kind of different, but a genuine stab at correcting some problems from previous semesters gone by.
I've been working on some of this over the summer, knowing that it's much easier to bring a set pattern and plan with you into the dorm, than to start one there, but not everything can be worked on during the summer.

So -- I've been trying to actually make myself go to bed, and I've been getting up by 7:30 A.M. since returning from my trip in order to more easily return to early mornings(I did sleep in on Sunday, and Monday til 8:00). I've also tried to exercise(at least go walking) every day. My weight at this point in life is less than desirable and starting to frustrate me a lot.

But...those aren't the real areas I want to see a difference in.

God's been really convicting my heart about some of the attitudes and mindsets that I've allowed to creep in. Some of these are old things come back to haunt me, while others are fresh and new.
It's funny how, just when I start thinking I've got things worked out, God's always right there ready to show me something that could use some work. Don't get me wrong, I'm not the type to picture God w/a huge stick, just waiting to hit me over the head w/it, but I do know that He's patient to point things out when I need to see them. I'm pretty sure if He dumped everything I needed to fix on me all at once I'd be overwhelmed! Thankfully, that's not how my God works.

So. All that said, my goals are similar to what they've been in the past, but I've revised and corrected some of them, and I've been working on them continually, instead of waiting for school, or the New Year, or w/e it is I'm always waiting on. God's been good to me, and I'm always learning something new about Him, and in turn about myself.
I'm trying a new take on my devotions to shake them out of the routine they'd become, and I'm loving it. All in all, I can't complain about how much I'm learning from God, I only want more. Sometimes I feel slightly overwhelmed by all there is to learn and unqualified to share w/others, but I desire to keep pushing on in my endeavors to do both.

Here's wishing all you students the BEST school year yet! Take care, and see some of ya soon...

PA/NY Video Blog #1

2009-08-08T19:43:00.002-05:00

To: Nobody

2009-07-28T15:54:00.002-05:00

To Whom It May Concern,

I am leaving tomorrow night for an adventure. I am taking my sister with me. We hope to make it in one piece, and return the same. Our destinations are Lancaster, PA, and somewhere in upstate NY. Several others will be joining our venture from PA and will effectively liven things up. It's doubtful that I will post while away, but since there are no signs of readers as of late I don't think you'll mind anyway. I wish you all well, and will return with at least one story - I promise(let's just hope it's one formed from someone else's expense). Until then, I bid you farewell, and ask that you don't miss me too much.

Yours Sincerely,

T.K.B.

Do me a favor...

2009-07-26T20:54:00.004-05:00

check out my Mom's blog...http://thebarrseven.blogspot.com/ Leave her a comment. She doesn't believe me that ppl ever read it, so if you have great, and if not there's no time like the present!

Oh, and here's Letha...finally. I'm hoping to try to take some of my parents b/f summers over, but I'm rapidly running out of time! I'm not posting all of Letha's btw. You can find the rest on Facebook, or follow this link: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=141492&id=526240420&l=b2f7fdbc0a

Enjoy!

On rain and hairspray

2009-07-22T15:41:00.001-05:00

Have you ever been stuck out in the rain after having applied a little too much hairspray (or gel for some of you) that morning? It's not all that pleasant I must inform you - nothing quite like the taste of hairspray running down your face into the corners of your mouth.

Reminds me of youth camp actually…all those lovely days playing tug of war in the mud and rain - what's not to love?!?

Can't believe I'm not getting to enjoy that this summer. How time's change! Now it's my little sis that gets to enjoy these things, while I'm stuck here working. *insert sigh here*

I love the rain. And I'll deal with the hairspray. It's the work I wish I could quit. Oh to be able to sleep in until forever, and to really honor a rainy day by never getting out of my pj's and snuggling up with a cup of coffee and a good book! Why didn't I take advantage of the days back when I didn't need money to pay bills? Alas, it does no good to dwell on such things.

Instead I will write. I have a story I'm working on. It's one that I will probably never finish or share with anyone. I find that kind therapeutic for some reason…

That'll do pig...that'll do.

2009-07-19T21:58:00.007-05:00

Thanks to Nichole I finally have some pics of my own mug to paste on here, instead of someone else's. We had fun, and I figure I should show you the fruits of our labor. So let me know what you think.

She was, oh, so patient and kind toward me(for the most part). I organized the outfits, props, shots, and handled the editing, while Nichole dutifully ran the camera, helped me juggle outfits and props, and all the while corrected whatever was wrong with a shot since I couldn't see them.

I rather enjoyed my new found prop - the old Polaroid, and now Nichole an I are excitedly thinking of other things we might pick up at a thrift store for just such a use.

Great fun was had by all...I think. (Oh! On a side note, during this venture we ignored lots of interest from across the street - there was a bar, so yelled, etc. ensued. I got everything from "Say cheese!" to "Don't jump!")

[F.Y.I. - I'm using a diff. font for my signature on these pics, because as obvious I didn't take them myself, so its not my personal font, but I am still "claiming" them. This is for copyright reasons, etc.(like ppl really want my pics!), and since Nichole isn't putting her name on them, I decided to use mine. Convenient, eh?]

Well, until my life "lives" up...or I just get bored...TTFN!

Lenny

2009-07-16T19:36:00.003-05:00

Meet Lenny...the newest member of the Barr clan! He is, as fairly obvious, a Guinea Pig, and a lesson to be learned about leaving Nichole and I alone for to long...

Basically we were that bored and decided that our house was seriously lacking in the pet department. See, at this point we only have 1 dog, 3 cats, 4 fish, and 10 chickens. (The four rabbits have escaped one by one, and are now terrorizing the neighborhood. Nothing like seeing cute little white bunnies in your yard but not being able to touch them.) Anyway, our reasoning was that we already had a pen for it, and the loss of the other pets created an opening for dear Lenny.

We have yet to give our parents the scoop on Lenny...thought it'd be more fun that way - for us. BUT...as we speak...er, I type...they are headed home. In fact, I just got a text from Mom saying they were in Indianapolis...hehehe.

Check it out...

2009-07-13T18:43:00.001-05:00

This R2D2 is made entirely out of legos!

Yet another Doris 'venture...

2009-07-11T20:38:00.002-05:00

this time it was w/Jocilyn. I wanted to take some shots of her for fun, and because I wasn't able to do her senior pics like I'd hoped, instead Mom did them - I simply ran out of time. Anyway, I don't feel like loading all the pics onto here, so these are just a few, but to see the rest just go to: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=137369&id=526240420&l=801bcdfffe

Promised pictures of a kidnapping

2009-07-09T00:55:00.005-05:00

Earlier today I twittered(yeah laugh if you want) that I was kidnapping my sister and that pictures might follow...so thought I'd just post several on here.

We just did a random photo shoot. I called her and told her that she had about ten min. til I reached the house and I was going to take pics of her in w/e she could throw together...boy is she good! She chose the pieces and I put them together. Let me know you're thoughts on the pics -- yes even the negative ones cuz I need them. Besides, I can discount them if I so choose...

Catching up a bit...

2009-07-07T11:50:00.006-05:00

Last week I talked Dakota into spending some quality time w/his sis(me) and her camera(Doris)...he agreed once offered a dollar - *shrug* everyone has their price.

I've been playing around w/some editing, some of which I love, and some that I, well, don't.

Kota "working" on my car...

...Britt joining him - yeah I let her get that close to my car.

This was just a snapshot from the weekend...didn't really take many pics. The good ones would've been from when we went tubing, but I feared for Doris, so we don't actually have any of that. Sad...I know.

These last few are from yesterday - our first day of VBS. I may add more later this week.

Have a great week all!

Dug up from the ashes

2009-06-28T13:40:00.007-05:00

In cleaning out our basement this summer, I happened upon a couple poems I'd written before college. I thought I'd share two of them with you. Keep in mind please, that these were written about four(five-ish?) yrs ago. Also, the first one was written about one of my coworkers - this is based on her story, and the second one is a continuation - this was/is my hope for the rest of her story...

Life's Road

Wandering aimlessly down the road,
I took in the scenic view.
The world around me was gorgeous,
All that was missing, was you.

I tried to forget all about you,
But that was to no avail.
I kept thinking of how you'd be with me,
If it hadn't been for all the betrayal.

I had loved you with all of my passion,
I had given you all of my youth.
You had loved me til' it was old fashioned,
Til' I finally realized the truth.

I just wasn't enough to keep you,
My heart, you have ripped it in two.
But I'm stronger than you give me credit,
So, I'll tell you that we are now through!

This charade must not keep on going,
My heart cannot pay the steep price.
I asked that our love now be ended,
I've tired of being so nice.

This wasn't the way I had planned it,
This shouldn't have happened at all.
We were s'pose to spend forever together,
But you decided to fall.

While this was your decision,
Mine is quite different you see,
For I am starting all over,
And you, no longer hold the key.

So down this road I'll still wander,
Without you holding my hand.
I'm stronger than I ever imagined,
Thanks to fighting, and taking my stand...

*Photo courtesy of: pro.corbis.com*

-Dedicated to C.K.
(I will not post any details of her story, because it was shared with me as a friend, but I will tell you that though not an ideal situation, I do admire her strength through those years...)

And now for my prayerful addition to her story...

Life's Road (part 2)

I've wandered down many a pathway,
Since that first road so long ago.
My life's changed a lot since that wrong turn,
It's no longer awkward and slow.

This road that I've traveled has changed some,
It's brighter, and not so alone.
I now have my kids, and my family,
My house once again is a home.

The strength that I found all those years back,
Has helped my heart learn to mend.
When I struggled to find my firm footing,
What I found were the arms of a Friend.

A Friend that has always been there,
Though I never knew til' now.
For this Friend is my Heavenly Father,
And to Him on my knees I now bow.

Those years when I always felt helpless,
Like things would never work out,
I realize now He was with me,
Showing me His holy route.

So I hum as I walk on my journey,
I'll sing as I stroll down the lane,
I've no idea what roads lie before me,
But now God is my comfort in pain...

The condensed version

2009-06-28T00:46:00.004-05:00

Last week was crazy busy for me, and since coming back it hasn't been much better - OK, maybe it has - anyway I thought that I'd just give you a brief(mostly photos) update of what I've been doing lately...hope it satisfies. I'm leaving out Kidz Adventure for the time being, but I may post about it later...
(There are tons more pics on Facebook!)

Everything turned out beautifully...

...and I must say, I thoroughly enjoyed myself.

I was reminded how much each of these friends mean to me - I love you all!

All in a days work...

2009-06-27T13:53:00.001-05:00

Almost time...

2009-06-21T20:20:00.002-05:00

Exhausted, she crawled into the backseat of the mini van that was parked in the McMillan driveway. Grabbing a pillow, she stretched out as far as possible. Muscles relaxing - sleep began to take hold. Drifting in and out of consciousness, she heard rain begin to fall. Waking long enough to enjoy the sound of it falling onto the roof of the van, she thought about the hours left before her return trip. "Soon, very soon...I get to trade this seat for my guest bedroom bed."

In action

2009-06-16T16:54:00.001-05:00

After having run hither, thither, and yon all day, I caught a pic of Miss Charlotte in action - the action of telling me this better not end up online! So what, in turn, did she really force me to do?...thats right - post it for your viewing pleasure! Enjoy!

Farewell...

2009-06-15T00:06:00.003-05:00

I am off to visit distant lands...and some not too distant lands. I will be spending this Mon-Thurs at the Beulah Grove camp grounds for Kidz Adventure, and then Thurs. afternoon I will be flying from Dayton to SEATAC...which is in Washington for those of you that didn't know that(like myself). I'm excited about both, but also hating that feeling of "I know I forgot something!" and wondering when I'll realize what I forgot.

I'm going to WA for Brenda McMillan and Brandon Goulet's wedding. It's been over a year since I've gotten to see them, so I'm looking forward to the visit. Leanna, Cheryl, Missie, Kristen, and Zach are all flying in as well, so it should be a blast! All of us girls, minus Kristen of course, are staying at a motel together -- Brenda and her sis are staying w/us too!

I'll let you know if anything really exciting happens during my trip(s). I may try to update via my phone, but I don't know if I'll have the time or care to. So, try not to miss me too much! Take care all...catch ya in a week(ish)!

On the prowl...

2009-06-11T19:19:00.005-05:00

I've been reading. Yep...just for fun. So nice to be picking up books just because I can, but its funny you know since college, my reading style has changed so much!

Pre-college I devoured "Christian romance" novels -- wow -- things sure have changed!

I actually planned to "get back into them" this summer for the singular reason of doing some "mindless" reading. Now don't get me wrong...I am NOT trying to knock anyone that reads, and enjoys reading, these books. I have just realized that they no longer hold my attention, and I feel like I'm just treading water w/them.
I don't feel like I benefit, in any way, another words.

I know that many people can truly relax and unwind w/a good Lori Wick or the like, but after having picked one up this summer, I became so easily distracted I thought I'd never get through the book! Almost drove me crazy! To say the least it was not relaxing.
Also, school has me very programmed to analyze what I'm reading, and I really don't enjoy analyzing Lori Wick. (Besides, to be honest, it does absolutely nothing positive for " ...therewith to be content." Phil. 4:11b)

So I've decided to try a new tactic -- reading for depth.

In my mind this does not mean, I'm limiting myself to only Christian written bestsellers. I am simply trying to make the books I read count, in some way, in my own life.
I want to learn from them, be challenged by them, and also expand my understanding of the faith I live by because of them.
(I do fully intend to throw in a Foxtrot comic every once in awhile though -- but who ever said you can't learn from Foxtrot anyway?)

I don't have some finalized list of books to read for this summer, but I have stumbled onto a couple good ones already, and I'm on the prowl for more. This week I've read:

*What Christians Believe, by C. S. Lewis -- amazing break down of the core of Christianity.

I read this partly for my own benefit, and partly because I enjoy C. S. Lewis, but I read it mostly because I'm seeking to best explain some of the questions one of my employers asks, and I was thinking about giving it to her to read.

*The Five People You Meet In Heaven, by Mitch Albom -- I thoroughly enjoyed this one!

Though obviously not in alignment with the Biblical description of Heaven, I found it thought provoking none the less. So many thoughts came to mind after reading this book. Here are a few questions it brought to mind...
~Who have you personally affected in a life-changing manor?
~Have you helped alter the direction of a life in any way?
~Thinking of the spiritual, have you allowed your words, thoughts, and deeds (your life in general) to be used of God for this purpose?
~Upon reaching Heaven, how many will be there because you were willing to be God's tool...?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I think I may start A Child Called 'It' tonight, not sure, still deciding what's next. Let me know if you have any suggestions on a good read, no promises, but I'm interested in ideas!

Random finding from days gone by...

2009-06-07T23:15:00.002-05:00

I was perusing through some old pictures on my parents comp, and found this one from a make-shift photo shoot I set up in Oklahoma. Made me laugh, thinking back on all the things I used to drag into that room and try to create props from. Well, just thought I'd share a little piece of my past...er, yeah.

Anyway...

Changes have been made...thank you Captain Obvious!

2009-06-05T20:53:00.002-05:00

Twas' an interesting week...

~Sunday -- Not going there, except to say that my God is Supreme!

~Monday -- Worked. Played volleyball w/friends. Loved it, played well, somehow killed my back.

~Tuesday -- Was stuck in bed all bed in some crazy pain! Finally got out of bed around 6:20 PM. Had to rescue my father from a flooded vehicle, and pick up my sister from work...my back was throbbing by the time I got home, around 1:30 AM.

~Wednesday -- My darling sister Jocilyn made it possible for me to work. She handled what my back couldn't(even w/the help of tons of IcyHot!). Had to spend most of the rest of the day in bed though. OH! Almost forgot, cops found bombs rigged all over stolen goods in the building across the street from Dad's restaurant, along with a meth lab in the back. They also found AK47's in the building. Apparently he rented storage from my Dad too, and in that building they found a fenced in sand pit that was harboring an alligator! (true story)

~Thursday -- Jocilyn saved the day again, big time. I probably did way to much this day...crashed afterward. I did get to take Jocilyn to Cincinnati Mills mall for a b-day surprise that evening though.

~Friday -- This was Jocilyn's actual b-day, yet she continued to be my faithful companion to work! Sad to say, yes, my back is still giving me problems...lifting much of anything is nigh impossible. We did, however, grab lunch afterword, hit up Payless, and Garden Ridge. Was a very enjoyable afternoon together. I can't believe she's 18! Happy birthday kiddo!

The view from where I'm standing...

2009-06-01T12:44:00.001-05:00

Thoughts running through my head...

2009-05-31T22:50:00.004-05:00

When something or someone becomes important to you, life gets complicated.

God gave us so many "tools" within our finite selves, and oft times we forget how much we have control over how we use these powerful tools -- things such as love, passion, and drive. We apply them to all aspects of life: people, hobbies, sports, pets, life in general.
Along with these tools we must never forget that God has given us the gift of free will. I believe that God created these powerful emotions, feelings, and drive so that we could use them to worship Him...

BUT -- it seems all too often we wrongly prioritize how we share these gifts. All too often we love our family, our friends, our jobs, schools, homes, cars, money, hobbies, sports team, and even church, more than we should.

The love, passion, and loyalty that God so rightly desires from us is often given to another as He watches on.
He will not force our loyalty to be His own, but how it must break His heart to see the meaningless, trivial things that we choose over Him!

I, myself, am so very guilty of misplacing where my loyalties lie. It seems all too easily I begin to allow other things to creep in on the time and devotion that I have for my Saviour, until suddenly it will come to the surface and I finally realize my unfaithfulness to my Father. Usually its because something I've planned out crumbles on me, or perhaps someone I have faith in fails me.

These are the times I find myself running to my Strong Tower, my High King.

And God is so loving and kind. He is always patiently waiting for my love's return. He is always ready to mend my broken heart. He is faithful and so good to this undeserving soul!

I know I'm going to stumble and I know I'll make some mistakes, but I am pledging my loyalty to God, my Heavenly Father.

No matter the earthly pain I must suffer, I desire to be wholly His, and with His help, to never let anything or anyone take first place in my life over Him.

I am thankful for these reminders and challenges He sends my way. Anything God intends to use to make me stronger and draw me closer to Him is of course for my benefit, so I will face it, and knowing He will be at my side, I will conquer it!

My day ahead...

2009-05-29T10:15:00.001-05:00

Wow...

2009-05-28T08:43:00.002-05:00

I'm sitting in my car -- stunned. (posting from my phone)

I recently went through some stuff I'd stored at my parents house. In doing so I found several old cassettes of mine, so these last few days I've been listening to them in my car -- seeing it has the only cassette player I own. Anyway, this morning I decided to listen to one that I picked up at a missionary convention, its Chinese hymns...

and I'm not understanding a word they're saying, but I can understand the meaning and I can hear the passion for the God they serve! Its beautiful...and moving.

I desire to sound like someone that loves God, I seek to look like someone who loves God, I want others to know that I AM someone that loves God!

A look at my surroundings...

2009-05-26T23:52:00.003-05:00

my makeshift closet for the summer...

my "storage unit"...

and finally my "have-no-clue-where-in-the-world-to-put-this-stuff-yet" space!

But hey -- I'm not sleeping in my car! Life is good. (actually my summer bed is awesome!)

Summer desire

2009-05-24T20:43:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I was talking to a friend about what we're both hoping to accomplish this summer. We talked about places we wanted to visit over our break, people we wanted to catch up with, and diets we'd like to make routine...

but those weren't the important desires.

We also talked of our spiritual battles we wanted to conquer, the deepening of our faith, and the hunger for allowing God's will to reign in our lives.

I thank God for a friend like this. And I thank Him for helping shape my focus. I desire to be wholeheartedly His, to deal with the battles, and to become a more powerful tool for His kingdom.

I know He's faithful and willing to complete these things which He's started in me, and I can't wait to see what all He's accomplished in me by summer's end!

Through Him we are more than conquerors! I intend to continue to pursue more through Him, to be more for Him, and to try to live more Christ-like because of Him.

I'd appreciate if my blogger friends would remember me this summer in prayer. Thanks...

Think about it...

2009-05-22T22:34:00.003-05:00

Today I read about Allonzo Trier -- a 13 Yr old basketball player.

Apparently he has what it takes.

The skill yes, but more importantly -- the drive.

He spends a minimum of 4 hrs a day practicing. He pushes himself to do more and be better. Allonzo hits the court directly after school and starts his warm up by rounding the court while moving the ball around his back and through his legs. After several minutes of this warm up, he grabs an extra ball and begins to repeat this exercise while masterfully dribbling both balls through his legs and around his back.

He's been honing these skills for several yrs. now, and his mother even works an early shift every morning in order to be home so she can help with his practice routine.

When done with the warm up he proceeds to shooting. He requires himself to make 450 shots before he can quit, and if he misses two in a row his mother's been instructed to subtract one shot from the tally.
Also, he decided that if he's going to do this it should be done right, so he won't allow for shots that bounce in or roll around the rim and then drop in, three of these in a row cause a loss in the tally as well. Altogether this can last up to 90 min or more.

Once that part of Allonzo's, or Zo as friends call him, daily schedule is finished he and his mother get in the car and head off to his private basketball tutoring, which lasts for about hour. There he goes through all kinds of exercises to challenge his reflexes and overall talent.

Finally this little boy leaves his tutor and heads to his team practice, this takes up the rest of his daily 4 hrs. or more.

Zo plays for a special league called Amateur Athletic Union or AAU. He flys all over for games, and does special promo things for different events. In fact, Zo has his own line of clothing, some of which is through Under Armor -- not to shabby kid.

Coming from a poor, single parent home this kid knows that he has to work hard for this dream. The world of sports has become so very competitive that he can't risk backing down or slacking off. He has to stay always ahead of the competition and always be ready to battle.

All this said -- I'd like to throw some questions out there...

-What do we, as Christians, do in our daily lives to stay "spiritually fit" and prepare for battle?
-How much personal time are we willing to invest?
-Are we truly devoted, 100%?
-And parents...are you willing to go above and beyond the norm, doing everything in your power, to ensure that your child is able to reach their full Christian potential?
-Will you sacrifice your personal schedule and comforts in order to accomplish the ultimate goal of wholeheartedly serving Christ, come what may?

...think about it.

The two links below showcase the skills of some other young players. The first is a kid named David and he's ten, while the second is an 11 yr. old named Jashaun.
1) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i6bnH0JhuKA
2) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-oC3aIHg95A

Break out the sunglasses people!

2009-05-21T01:28:00.002-05:00

Don't you just love big sunglasses?!? These are my newest pair...Emily and Charity wanted to see how they looked in them. :-D

Oddly out of place

2009-05-20T14:36:00.003-05:00

I'm back home(ish).

Funny thing is I feel so out of place.
When you have to juggle your personal effects around a room that comes predecorated it tends to produce this feeling. Sigh.

To think that, in around three months I'll be packing up what few(ha that word shouldn't be used here) things I brought w/me and lugging them back into the dorm, is about to drive me crazy. This is my lot in life I fear.

I am, however, already thinking through some of my redecorating plans for my dorm room come this fall. Funny -- I was doing this as I was packing that room up. Good thing about thinking ahead to that is now I can keep my eyes open for deals this summer on some of what I'm looking for.

Although I need to be thrifty...considering how many trips I'm wanting to go on this summer.
I'm working through the pros and cons of each at this point. My possible desinations are: KS/OK, PA/NY, and AL/FL.

I'm really torn as to what direction to head and how many places I can go. I do have one trip that's certain on my going, Washington state. I'm heading there for Brenda's wedding and I've already bought an airline ticket so its a go.

Oh! And I'm going to Kidz Adventure. I will be there from June 15th-18th...and I fly to Brenda's on the 18th.

Sheer craziness is what that boils down to.

Anyway, twas' just thinking through my summer plans. I'll be sure to let you all know where I plan to end up.

Coming (possibly) to a city near you,
Tiffany

Just some semester's end thoughts...

2009-05-12T15:16:00.002-05:00

Another one has come and gone. Wow. I'm a senior...sorta. As of about 4 and 1/2 hrs. ago my classes as a Jr. are done and gone. Hallelujah! I'm so overwhelmed w/joy I think I could just cry...or maybe that's the sleep deprivation kicking in. Who knows.

Hopefully I have learned something this year -- don't procrastinate! Ok, so the likelihood of me never procrastinating is slim to none, but I really, really pushed it this year, I mean really pushed it.

I know I'm the one to blame though, so I hold no ill will toward profs, friends, or classmates. They're not the educationally retarded child...apparently I am. So, as we've been learning in Wisdom Literature, "What is God trying to teach me in this situation?"
I'm thinking its this, "If you're lacking the drive to get it done when you should, give yourself a good kick in the tookus and do it anyway!!!"

*Yawn* So incredibly tired...

An Art Lesson From Dakota

2009-05-08T08:28:00.002-05:00

Having lunch with my little man...

2009-05-07T11:15:00.001-05:00

My weekend (in color)

2009-05-03T15:06:00.008-05:00

Doris art

2009-04-30T23:39:00.003-05:00

An evening spent w/Doris

2009-04-30T01:16:00.005-05:00

So tonight I was enjoying having Doris out and about more than what's become the norm these days.

I've missed her.

Have been thinking about possibly taking some photography classes this summer -- we'll see.

* D-groups drew to a close for this year as of tonight
* Also Doris and I went to Cesar's soccer game w/Leanna
* And we were goofing around in the dorm

...just thought I'd show a few pics from the evening.

A few random pics of friends

2009-04-27T00:54:00.001-05:00

Gotta love the personalities!

Pieces of my weekend

2009-04-26T18:12:00.005-05:00

Triple A...a wonderful company. I've seen a lot of them lately it seems. Month or so ago called them for Mariah -- her keys were locked in her car, maybe two weeks ago called them for Bailey -- his sister's keys were locked in her car, and today I had to call them for myself -- Britt thoughtfully locked my doors when she was done retrieving her purse...but she'd also left my keys in the floor board for me as well. Oh well. What else am I paying them for anyway?

Had a cookout w/my family and a few friends on Saturday night. My dad, the grill master, came through once again w/tasty goodness, and of course lots of stories. Mom was a gracious host, and came through for me w/some of her awesome (and warm) potato salad! Haven't had that in awhile. And my siblings were excited to see me and smothered me w/hugs and kisses -- Letha, more than the others, as par the norm. All in all it was fun and fulfilling.

Earlier Saturday morning I went to service my community service hours (for GBS not the state) at the Great America Cleanup -- Keep Cincinnati Beautiful! It was fun, but hot(ish) and dirty work. They provided breakfast, and lunch which was nice. Oh and we all got free shirts. I started w/a burnt orange colored long sleeve one, and then was given two more yellow short sleeve ones. *shrug* Never turn down free stuff...ok, maybe not never...

Here are a few pics from the clean up. You can see more of them on my facebook profile...

My awesome little bro.

2009-04-26T12:22:00.001-05:00

I love this little guy so much. Took these pics on my phone while I was at home last nite. (He calls his mohawk mountain hair)

Science class fun...

2009-04-25T13:22:00.004-05:00

So my thoughts -- Glasses should count as goggles.

Ah...my high tops. :)

2009-04-25T01:32:00.001-05:00

Shout out to Ms. Charlotte

2009-04-20T13:32:00.002-05:00

An evening w/friends

2009-04-20T13:06:00.006-05:00

A few weeks ago I was w/a group of friends at the Mills house. The plan was to have as much fun as humanly possible...ok, that's not actually what they said when inviting me, but I'm pretty sure it was implied. Regardless of reason I feel that fun was had by all. I know speaking for myself that I rather enjoyed the evening, especially the whole "let's ride the four wheeler -- oops now we're muddy" part. Was also rather amused to see how persistent Charity and Beth were w/the whole mud thing.

Anyway, I just thought I'd give a shout out to the Mills -- thanks for the invite and the fun times! Here are some of the pics I got throughout the evening...enjoy!