| Confessions of a Broke College Kid | Let's Talk Textbooks |

Here's the funny thing, I haven't even started college yet and I've already made a few mistakes.  Now, if you're gonna make mistakes in life you might as well use them to your benefit and learn from them.  If you don't learn from them, well, you keep making them over and over again and in my case that might prove quite costly.  My college tuition was due this past monday so when I made it home from work I immediately started making sure all my ducks were in line.  Tuition, check.  Talk on phone with Financial Aid Office for 20 minutes, check.  Wait on hold with Social Security Administration for 40 minutes, check.  Oh wait, better check my student email like they've advised us to.

Books required for Accounting 101.

Textbooks, not check.  Oh brother.  Of course this doesn't surprise me, If there were any special skills I had acquired over my past years of schooling it would be procrastination.  What I should of done was checked my student email about 3 weeks ago, got the list, and then proceeded to call mom so she could search all of her trusty sources for some cheap college material.  Nope.  I like a challenge. I also like having no money, apparently. I call Justin: "Hey I need to go by the campus bookstore today and get my books."  "I can just go pick them up for you."  He's so sweet.  One hour later I'm on my way to Columbia with twenty dollars in my fuel tank praying that will last me until Thursday.

"Do you know how much those books were?"  Oh, shoot.
 "Uh, a lot?"
"389 dollars"  Oh man, that's worse than I thought.

389 dollars later I'm left with a meager 25 dollars in my checking account.  Moral of this story?  Check used book stores,  check Amazon, check Ebay, check ANYWHERE ELSE before you decide to buy brand new books for classes. (Amazon.com has this cool feature where you can rent college textbooks for a semester, and it's about 1 million times cheaper than buying brand new.)  Oh, and don't do all of this two days before your classes start. Of course, the bright side of all of this is, one, it's funny. . . who needs money anyways? Two, I can resell them back to the school when I'm done.  So that's nice.

My parents tried to tell me, but I didn't listen.
Okay, no, always listen to your parents. They usually know best.  Or just take this guy's word for it.

| How to Save Money the EASY Way | From Someone who Learned it the HARD Way |

 

I've been trying to get myself on a budget system since about May.  After all, money management is a lesson better learned young.  So, with that said, here are a couple truth's about me:

I'm young.

I'm not very good at money management.

Perfect! Let's get this show on the road!  As hard as a tried to be a little more frugal with my money something would always get in the way.  That something was usually a Starbucks or a Panera Bread.  I'm not terrible at managing my money, but I could definitely be better at it.  In fact, everyone could probably use some practice with this. Which is part of the reason why I'm writing this blog.  So there I was, living my life, thinking I was doing alright, when I got a nice, big, hard slap in the face from reality.  And reality said: "You spent way too much money on Christmas gifts this year. Next year, let's stick to something handmade."  Reality was right.  Christmas really knocked me out this year. And  I hadn't quite recovered from that when I was hit again by a collection of really big, expensive college books.

Needless to say, budgeting is no longer a "I'll get around to it eventually" thing.  It's now a "you better start budgeting or you're gonna be living under a bridge" thing.  So in my conquest to save more money I've come up with a few money saving tips from someone who had to learn all of this the hard way.  You're welcome.

Number One: Pack a lunch for work. 
If you work through lunch like I always do and the place where you work is fully equipped with both a microwave AND a refrigerator... bring a lunch. Is it really necessary to go out to eat everyday? Or even 3 times a week?  No, It's not. You could save so much money just by packing a sandwich the night before or bringing some leftovers.

Number Two: Cut down on the Starbucks!
Or any other high priced coffee shop to which you find yourself undoubtedly loyal.  I know, I know, coffee is the life fuel that keeps us going through long, stressful days... but 4 dollars a cup? Let's get real.  I don't live close to a Starbucks anymore (sadly) so any time I drive into the city I stop there because I feel like it's my duty.  "It's here... I might as well buy one." No.  just because there is a coffee shop in the vicinity does not mean you are obligated to stop and purchase a "mocha latte with half the pumps of chocolate and no whipped cream".  I just saved you about 5 bucks.  You're welcome.

Number Three: Set a weekly limit!
This is something I'm really going to have to buckle down on.  When I got my debit card I stopped carrying cash.  Stupid idea. It's so much easier to spend your money when you're swiping a card as opposed to pulling out some cash.  Give yourself a limit.  When you take your paycheck to the bank, leave out 20/30 dollars in cash and instead of pulling out a card to make a purchase you can look at what you have in paper money and then decide if it's something you really need.  For example, no you don't need that 8 dollar mascara, and contrary to what the ad says, it does not make your eyelashes 5 inches longer. 

Number Four: If you DON'T need it, DON'T buy it.
This one kind of piggy backs on number three.  Just because you have money, doesn't mean you can just spend it on the first thing that catches your eye.  Well, I guess you could do that, but it's not something I would recommend.  It's important to look at what you have in total, and then proceed to subtract your expenses (ex. rent, phone bill, utilities, car payment, car insurance, etc.) Once everything is deducted you have a little spending money.  Notice I said little.  You don't want to just blow the rest.  Why? Sometimes, little, out of the blue expenses just fall from the sky and, once again, nail you right in the face.  For example, you're leaving for work and your car battery decides to inconvenience you with its sudden death and you are left with no choice but to purchase a new one.  Always plan for things like that.  You don't want to be hit with an expense similar to that one and not have the necessary finances to pay for it.

Don't get me wrong, I'm no Dave Ramsey.  I have to work on all these things just as much as the next person, but it's always good to have a place to start when you're finally ready to buckle down and manage your money better.  It's taken me a few months but I think I'm finally ready to get started on this.

Regionals '12.. Can't really think of anything cool to call this.

I remember pulling out my notebook of inspirations at the beginning of this year and jotting down a list of dreams/goals that I had for the future.   They were a combination of short term and long term goals.  After I finished writing, I stared at the paper, there were about 16 or 17 in all.  As I scrolled back over the list I noticed that each would take a great amount of effort and time.  They would require me to work extra hard and at times, really step outside my comfort zone.  But, I figured that this is what I wanted, so I was gonna work for it.

I ended up posting the list on this blog and if you remember back to that post (The Zone of Comfort: My Dreams ) You'll remember that one of my goals was to make it to Nationals in NCFCA.  In my mind, this is going to be one of the harder ones. 

At the beginning of this speech and debate season I began brainstorming ideas of what I wanted to write speeches on.  I decided to do something a little different this year and try my hand at Illustrated Oratory, which is basically a speech with boards for visual aids.  But what to write my IO on?  That was the question.  I was stumped.  I didn't want to write it on any usual speech topic that everyone else would be attempting to claim.  I wanted something different.  But most importantly, I wanted something I felt strongly about and that would impact the people around me.  Finally, after much thinking I decided to write a speech on Sex Trafficking.  Was it random? Absolutely not.  I feel very strongly about the abolition of sex trafficking.  It's a depressing topic, but people need to know that it happens.  I wanted to make them aware and then empower them to want to end it as well.

My mind was made up, and nothing was gonna change it.  Besides maybe my parents, no one really thought my speech topic was cool.   "What's your IO on?"  "Sex trafficking!"  "..Oh.."  This is usually how the conversations went and they were always accompanied by strange looks.  Times like this made me second guess myself and my speech topic.  Hmm.. Maybe this wasn't such a great idea.  But the Lord encouraged me to keep going.  This speech topic was odd, it was out of the ordinary, and it was different, but I was gonna do it anyway.  In your face, haters. :)

The year started out rough, but when I placed second with it in Houston I was encouraged.  I came home, worked on it some more and prepared to take it to the Regional tournament.  Yes, my dream was to make it to Nationals, and I worked hard.  I wasn't gonna come home after Regionals and wish I had done more.  Needless to say, the Lord never left my side.  I prayed before every round and I placed my PG-13 speech in his hands.  Whatever he wanted.  I was kinda freaked out because sometimes when I get really nervous in a round I blank out and since this was Regionals, I couldn't afford to blank out.

Well, every round was perfect.  I ended up advancing to finals and again, that round was perfect.  I can't give credit to my own strength because I did nothing but give a speech, it was all God.  I gave that last round my best and then waited. Oh, the joy of waiting.

Sitting in that big sanctuary.  Watching people walk up on stage.  Seeing friends qualify to nationals was all incredible.  Finally, they called up the IO finalists.  I don't know if I looked nervous, but I can tell you that my stomach felt like it was gonna implode at any moment.  We all stood there.  They announced 6th place.. 5th place.. No advancement to nationals.. 4th place.. Conner Liberto.  I started walking.  Dang it I thought as I started walking towards the stage, I barely missed it.  Ugh.  Next thing I know Mrs. Cromer says: "And she is advancing to the National Championship!" I stopped.  My mouth probably dropped open, but I can't really account for anything else that I did after that.
 I accepted my award and walked over to get my picture taken.  I don't even think I smiled because I was in shock.  Pretty sad, I know.  But that's not completely my fault, he didn't say " say cheese!' or anything!

I did it.  Not by my own strength, but by God's.  I proved to myself that if you set a goal and work for it, then you can achieve it.  I felt so blessed in that moment and I felt like I didn't really deserve it, but it was amazing nonetheless.

So yeah. That's this years "Regionals story" :)

To South Carolina and Back- Part 2

The scenery was different here as opposed to where I come from.  The trees were tall and dense and the grass was.. green.  It was a nice change.  The only thing that stayed about the same though, was the heat.  But being an inhabitant of South Texas, I was used to it.  I can honestly tell you, the first thing I did upon arrival was bring all of my stuff in, stumble tiredly up the stairs and collapse on the bed where an NCIS marathon was waiting.  Ah, yes! I thought, This place will do. 

I was pretty much a slug for the rest of the day, taking advantage of every precious inch of space I had because I knew it wouldn't be long before I was stuffed back into that mini van.  That night we were given the privelage to go out to dinner with a family I had grown up with.  I hadn't seen them since I were little and it was awesome to catch up with them.

The next day, we were Ashville, NC bound for a little sightseeing trip! (By the way, Asheville is where most of The Hunger Games was filmed.. Just saying.)  The trip up there was beyond beautiful and when we finally reached the little town, I was almost in love.  I mean, a cute, little historic town in the mountains! What could be better? Well, Ashville ended up being a lot like Austin except not as big.  Hippies and tattoo parlors everywhere, and we even saw one guy with a bunch of murderous stickers plastered to the back of his car.  Odd? Apparently not for Asheville.  Nonetheless, it was a neat experience and I definitely enjoyed it.  On the way home mom insisted we stop off at the North Carolina Arboretum (Which is just a place with lots of flowers and stuff) she has an "Arboretum pass" so why not?  I've been to the Dallas Arboretum but this one, out of the two I've been to, might just be my favorite.  It was in the mountains for goodness sake!

After this little adventure we headed back to Spartanburg.

Back at the hotel we found various means of entertainment.  Basketball, NCIS marathon, workout room, free food and some tennis. Very fun.

The next day we were out early and off to the Spartanburg Expo Center for the very first day in the three day 'Freedom Girls take South Carolina' experience.  Well, the next three days were awesome, to say the least.  We talked to people, made many business connections, sold dolls, received lots of encouraging feedback and dad even had the opportunity to teach a few classes.  It was long and tiring but definitely an amazing experience.  There's no doubt that we were all completely wiped out when it was over.  The day after the conference we packed up all our stuff and headed home.  Adios Spartanburg!

To South Carolina and back... 42 hours trapped in a minivan (Part 1)

This trip began like any other trip.  As always, I was throwing things into a bag at the last minute, hoping I had packed everything I would need.  The house was bright and busy and everyone was either packing bags, finishing laundry, sweeping or doing the dishes.  Trip preparation is never fun.

We were more or less awake the next morning at 6:30, bright and early.  The morning was crisp and cool but slightly damp which was unfortunate because I knew out of us three kids, I would be the one forced to climb on top of the car and load stuff into the big black bag of doom.   Nevertheless, we got everything done and managed to fit all of our junk into the back of the car.  In case I forgot to mention previously, we were headed to SC for  Teach Them Diligently, a large Homeschool Convention, to teach workshops and also set up a Freedom Girls booth!  Do you know what this means?  No, you don't.  The beloved, roomy back seats of our car were put down to make room for 40 doll boxes and on top of those space-stealing boxes were two, quite large, freedom girls signs that not only took up the back of the car, but also intruded into my small limited space as well.   And of course, mom wanted to bring half of our pantry and Sydney thought it would be a good idea to pack a bunch of games into a separate suitcase.  Squished? Yeah, a little. 

We crossed the Louisiana borderline at about 4:00, welcomed by a sign that said, "Welcome to Louisiana" and referenced "the wetlands".  The Wetlands huh?  After a few hours of driving in Louisiana I knew exactly what they meant.  The scenery changed from wide open, green and grassy Texas plains to tall leafless trees, property fences drowned in mire and swamps.  We drove a little further before stopping in Lafayette for the evening.  The next morning we continued on, despite minor storm warnings.  Miles and miles of swamps stretched out before us.  A little later on in the day we passed through Baton Rouge and then came to New Orleans.  Honestly, I couldn't figure out why anyone would want to live there, but maybe that's just me.  An interesting fact about New Orleans is that the cemeteries have tombs that are huge and above ground.  Instead of burying the dead bodies under ground they lay them in these stone tombs that sit above the ground.  Why do they do this?  Because that part of the state is below sea level.  When water floods the city, it has no way of running out.  If the bodies had been laid underground then eventually the water, that frequently inhabits the city,  would erode the dirt in the cemeteries and surprise! Lots of dead bodies. . .what a nightmare.  The city itself was not really the most appealing place ever, but it was a cool experience nonetheless!

After a few more hours of driving, we found ourselves in Mississippi. There was an almost dramatic scene change here.  We went from swamps to miles and miles of tall trees and green grass.  Fascinated with all this beauty, I succumbed to just staring out the window.   Mississippi was, by far, the quickest state to drive through.  In about 2 short hours, we were in Alabama.  Alabama and Mississippi were very similar.  We rarely strayed from the interstate except for a few bathroom breaks and only then did we see a change in scene.  Tall, dense, green trees lined the interstate and guided us on our journey through the state.  Although it rained a few times, most of the time we could see the rays of the southern sun brightly shining through the trees. 

Well, we got through both Mississippi and Alabama in a day and ended up staying in Hogansville, Georgia that evening.  At that point, we only had a few more hours to go.  I had been to Georgia before but it was good to be back.  I'd always loved Georgia and nothing had seemed to change about it.  It was still as vast and beautiful as ever! The next day we arrived in South Carolina! I would say, if you haven't been to SC then you definitely need to head up there for a visit.  The girls were beyond excited when we arrived at our destination, the hotel we were staying at was more like a small apartment complex.  With an upstairs and 3 separate TV's (We don't have cable at home) we all thought this was paradise, UNTIL, we found out the pool wasn't open.  All our dreams, shattered in an instant.  (Okay, so that statement is slightly untrue).  We made up for the lack of swimming with basketball and cold showers.  

After 21 hours in a tightly packed car, it was good to be here,

{To be Continued}

All Star.. not really.

Hi. My name is Conner, and I like to be good at everything.  I'm sure most of you know at least one person like this.
You could invite me to a ping pong tournament and my goal would be to beat everyone. . . And I don't even like ping pong.  Or I suppose I should say I don't "appreciate" it to it's full potential, I'm sure professional ping-pong-ers (?) have amazing arms.  But that's besides the point.  Well let me be the first to tell you this, my bloggy friends, I am not good at everything.   I could give you a list of things I'm not very good at:
-Debate
-Being patient
-Photography
-Saying goodbye


And the list goes on and on.   There are people who have a natural gift for speaking in front of other people, and there are others who avoid public speaking like the plague.  That's because everyone has certain strengths and certain weaknesses and that is perfectly okay!


Jesus refers to us as "The Body of Christ." However, before we delve into that let's first look at a human body.  Let's think about how weird it would be it everyone looked like a giant hand.  What are the benefits of looking like a giant hand?  Sure, you could grab things, but you couldn't see, you couldn't hear and you couldn't walk.  Why? Because you're a giant hand.  Same thing goes for any other solitary body part.  You could accomplish what that one body part was originally intended to accomplish, but nothing more. 


Now, let's stop and thank the Lord that we aren't all giant hands.  With our bodies we have hands, feet, eyes, ears, a heart and so on and every single thing fulfills a certain, important purpose.  Eyelashes seem pretty pointless, but those are what keep dirt from getting into your eye.  Eyelashes are the reason we don't randomly see people on the floor writhing in pain and screaming "my eye!!".  Isn't that awesome?


Every part is important and every part is needed.  Now, let's revert back to the body of Christ.  It's the exact same way, we couldn't all have the exact same talent.  We all have different strengths and weaknesses because we all have a purpose to fulfill.

In 1 Corinthians it says, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."




So basically, there will be things I'm not gonna be great at but through my weaknesses, Gods power is intensified.

The Zone of Comfort: My Dream(s)

I was thrown out of my comfort zone a while ago. Landed right on my butt.

Reminds me of the time I was in Port A for summer camp and one of the counselors ideas for "an awesome game" was putting a bunch of sun burned girls in a circle on the beach and said "fight".  Well, females are vicious.  I remember being grabbed by 4 girls and thrown out of the circle onto the sand.

Pardon my digression, but that was basically the way I exited my "zone of comfort".  I have vowed never to return.  I know that if I do, I'll become comfortable again and I can't have that.   Comfort is not key.  Unless you're sleeping or taking the PSAT.

I realized that there I things I want to accomplish, dreams I want to see become reality, adventures I want to create and a life I want to explore.  I can't do that if I'm afraid to walk out of my house.

If I had it my way, I'd still be at Geneva.  I'd still be quiet, awkward and would much rather prefer to be in places that are familiar rather than not.  But I gave myself one of those harsh self talks and I concluded that quiet, awkward people never get anywhere in life.  I had to walk outside that door and keep walking, while promising myself to never look back.  It's been a journey, but seeing where I am now.. I wouldn't trade the trials I faced and discomfort I experienced for anything in the world.  They challenged and grew me in certain areas making me who I am now.

So here are my dreams, it is my hope that I can accomplish most of these someday:

~To learn at least 3 foreign languages by the time I graduate highschool.  (Spanish, French and Italian)
~ Graduate college by 23
~Live in England for half a year while Attending L'abri (Francis Schaeffer Academy)
~Attend Summit Academy this summer for two weeks
~Become an intern for Teen Pact.
~Work with the Heritage Foundation
~Live in New York for a year while working at a large journalism company.
~Travel the world.
~Go sky diving and scuba diving
~Go to Nationals in NCFCA
~Become a professional barrel racer
~Start my own company
~Work with escaped/rescued sex trafficking victims.
~Live in Ireland
~Marry someone completely amazing, who's love for God far surpasses his love for me and have him come on some of my adventures with me and most of all be my best friend.


So that's what my list looks like now.  I could do none of these if the Lord and my family had prodded me out of my comfort zone.  Well, more like cattle prodded me out.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. 

Just Another "Christmasy" Blog

I cannot possibly describe the feeling of utter happiness I experience when Christmas rolls around every year.  I started the season off this year with 70 dozen cookies and LOTS of Michael Buble Christmas.  That was just the beginning!  Just the other day I was completing the perilous task of ascending the attic to retrieve our boxes of Christmas decorations and wreaths.  Singing along, quite loudly, to Christmas music all the while clad in not one but TWO sweatshirts. 

Yes it really does get cold in Texas, believe it or not.

There's just something about the holiday season that inspires warmth, amity, gaiety and familial bonding.  I cherish that indescribable feeling when I am presented with another moment to thank God for yet another Christmas, another beautiful opportunity to celebrate his sons birth.  

What can compare?

The correct answer should be a resounding, "NOTHING. . . duh", but I fear that answer may have gotten lost in the mob of holiday shoppers and personal gratification.  

Somewhere we seem to have forgotten what Christmas is really about.  While I cannot deny my love for pumpkin spice lattes and continual Christmas music, these worldly pleasures cannot be put on a higher throne than Jesus Christ.  Which is more important?  Fulfilling my taste buds desire for something delicious and "christmasy" or spending an eternity with the Maker of the Universe?

And no that is not a trick question.  

The simple truth is Jesus blessed us with his divine and miraculous birth over 2,000 years ago.  How is it that suddenly our thought processes are limited to how much cheaper that flat screen TV will be ON SALE!!  Don't misunderstand me, I'm talking about myself here as well.  It's easy to get sucked into the trap of "buy one get one half off".  

How about we remember that tis the season to be jolly because Christ entered the world as a baby to one day take the burden and punishment of our sins.  Maybe it's just me, but I'd take eternal life with Jesus Christ over a new TV any day.

Have a blessed Christmas!

Broken for Him

Yesterday I was casually sitting on my bedroom floor reading my Bible, Acts 5 to be exact, and I came across a verse that stopped me in my imaginary tracks.

In these passages, the apostles Peter and John are walking around the city performing miracles, praising God and preaching to the lost all in the name of Jesus. As usual The Pharisees and Sadducees are upset, maybe even a little offended by these acts and they call the men in.

"When they heard this, they were furious and wanted to put them to death"

This is when a Pharisee by the name of Gamaliel steps up to warn the Sanhedrin of the possible consequences of putting these men to death.

"Men of Israel, consider carefully what you intend to do to these men. Some time ago Theudas appeared, claiming to be somebody, and about four hundred rallied to him. He was killed, all his followers dispersed, and it all came to nothing. After him, Judas the Galilean appeared in the days of the census and led a band of people in revolt. He to was killed and all his followers were scattered. Therefore in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is of God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God."

The leaders found Gamaliel to be right in this assumption and decided not to kill Peter and John. So they called them back in and fairly warned them to speak no more of Jesus.  Then they had both Peter and John flogged. And they were released.

Now this is the part I was getting at.

After this, the Bible says,

"The apostles left the Sanhedrin rejoicing because they had been counted worthy to suffer disgrace for the name."

Basically, they had endured a very painful form of punishment and they rejoiced because they were WORTHY enough to suffer for the name of Jesus.

Do we do this?

We are lucky enough to live where we can openly profess the name of God and not be beaten for it.  The Apostles had it much harder than we do. But that doesn't mean we won't suffer as Christians. Maybe you already have and if you haven't you WILL.  And so my question is, will you count yourself worthy to suffer for so great a cause? Will you get mad at God? Will you rejoice because he has called you to suffer for him?

 We must choose to live by faith and read our Bible daily so when the time comes for our faith to be tested we will be prepared. God didn't put us on this earth so we can live a little and have a good time, but rather be a light in a dark world. And this sometimes requires us to suffer so his name can be lifted high.

Garner State Park!

I was definitely looking forward to this years Garner State Park trip. In fact I was so excited that I stretched my creativity to the limit just trying to pass the time.  I made lists of things we would need, organized thoughts and notes for an upcoming event I'm planning and cleaned for fun as well as put together several projects that would keep my mind off of the things that were quickly approaching. Yes, I've always thought of time as quickly passing, but those three days were by far the longest three days in all my years and experience in waiting.

I thought it would never come.  But of course, the future doesn't stay the future for very long. And so it came and I was definitely ready.  That morning I was awake early making breakfast for everyone.  (We wouldn't be going ANYWHERE until dad had breakfast)  After making sure everything was in the car, we piled in and drove out of the driveway, not to return for an entire week.

Neither of my parents were too thrilled at the idea of camping all week under the hot Texas sun, but they were able to sacrifice their doubts for the greater good. Yes, I am very thankful for that.

We soon arrived and checked in.  We then decided we should find our campsite and start pulling out all the junk that took hours to organize.  (Okay.. it didn't take that long.. but it was long enough)  We were driving towards the site when we ran across 4 helpless hitchhikers.  Oh sorry.. I mean my friends.  Looking like they needed a ride we invited them into our small car that was in no way made for 9 people.  But we made it work.

Like last year, the trip consisted of lots of swimming, hiking, dancing and star watching. All which was expected.  What was NOT expected, was the flood that attacked our shelter early Friday morning.  It hasn't rained all year so I was a little shocked when it decided to thunderstorm the week we go camping.


The girls (Emily, Julia, Sydney and I) were originally in the tent.  But seeing that we would be having rain that night we switched sleeping arrangements.  The boys graciously gave us their shelter and they took our tent.  Well that night it poured, the thunder boomed and the lighting lit the entire sky as water started racing into our shelter.  I, being the fortunate one to have claimed the only air mattress was oblivious to the 3 inches of water under me until Emily got up soaking wet. Not being able to go sleep and being without a cellphone, I stood up to see how everyone else was doing.  About this time everyone else started getting up off of their soaking and almost submerged in water sleeping bags.  We all huddled on my air mattress.  Those looking in would probably think we were having an absolutely miserable time, but we laughed at how pathetic we looked and sang rain songs as we counted down the hours until morning.

Finally we were rescued and we took refuge in the only shelter with food, while the boys, thoroughly entertained with our "misery", laughed from their tent.  Until they realized that we were the ones with the food and the games.  HAH! We finally all went to sleep and awoke to a very muddy campsite, a lot of wet clothes and blankets and an obliterated canopy.  Mom was about ready to pack up and leave but I convinced her to stay and we stuck out the rest of the week with cheerful faces.  (But not without a few laundromat runs)

The trip by far was very enjoyable.  I definitely enjoyed the seemingly endless company of my friends and all the laughs and unforgettable memories that came alongside.  I definitely will not be forgetting this trip and I can't wait to return again.

I'll be back again next year, Garner!

"Patience is a virtue"

Patience is an interesting word.  It can also be a name.. but that's beside the point.

I envy my dads patience.  But I suppose living in a house full of hormonal girls requires him to exercise such a virtue.  He must take his responsibility seriously, being the only man in this house with no one to share these duties with besides maybe our male cat, George.  But as George is a ladies man.. or rather, cat, and doesn't take his duties seriously.  My father is left to tend to these duties as a patient and nurturing father as well as a loving husband.

Unfortunately, I did not inherit this quality.

I love working with children which allows me ample opportunity to be patient which is good.  I'm not extremely impatient, but when I get annoyed it's much easier for me to fly off the handle. (As with most people)

A couple of weeks ago I worked with a VBS class.  It was great, when I wasn't singing with the praise team I was helping the kids with craft and taking them to snack etc.  But of course, every class has those few kids that just love being, well.. annoying.

My patience was about to be tested.  There was, as always,  the leader of the troublemakers, had he been absent those five days, my job would have been much easier.  He would start the trouble and the other two kids would follow his lead.  He didn't really treat me like someone who was in authority over him OR someone who would have him sent home if need be.. but I was, oh yes.. I was.

By the end of that week he had kicked me once and punched me.. twice.  Real charming kid. But it was definitely a great patience tester.  God never ceases to give me opportunity to grow in an area that i've proven to need a lot of growth in. He's just amazing, ain't he?

Maybe next time I should count to ten.

1.. 2.. 3.. 4 I'm gonna kill that kid 5.. 6.. okay I won't kill him, just cause him a lot of physical pain.. 7.. 8.. yeah that's a perfect idea.. yeeeaaahhh.. 9.. 10.

Day #30- We All Have Something To Offer

I once ran across a book, and this is going to sound pathetic but I don't remember anything about the book except for the basic story line.  But for the purpose of this post and all that it has to offer.. the storyline is all I need.

Basically, the main character.. whoever that was, was a little on the depressed side.  He didn't really think he had ant talent and he couldn't really figure out if there was anything he could offer.  Therefore,  in a desperate attempt to be accepted he went out and searched for something he could be good at.  He went to friends and family and experimented with their hobbies and talents.  Needless to say, none of them worked out and he was left feeling like a failure all over again.  But of course, the book wasn't going to end there.  In the end, he found something that he could do. And so,  he made it special and he made it unique.

We all have those moments when we feel as if we're not really good at anything and that we don't have much to offer.  But in reality, we have plenty to offer, we just have to have the willingness to be open to whatever that may be.  Everyone has special gifts and talents.  And when each of us come face to face with whatever that talent is, I hope we can embrace it and make it our own with the radiance of Godly confidence.  We have something special that the Lord has equipped us with to build one another up and expand the kingdom of Heaven.  Ephesians 4:12, "To equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ."

And so my friends and faithful readers.  Thus ends the 30 Day Challenge. I can tell you personally that my time spent writing these was an enjoyable one.  I'm sure Andrew feels the same way, and don't worry, I'll make him write on here again. ;) Unfortunately, I will probably be returned to my previous state of Writers Block until something else great comes along for me to pore over.  But until then, thank you everyone!!

Day #29- Personal best is a good goal, but God's standard is the best.

I had a miserable running experience a couple days ago.  For starters, I felt sick before we even started the workout, mix that with the 100 degree weather and my unconditioned body and I could tell this was not going to be an enjoyable practice.  But we have the state meet this weekend and therefore, giving up and sitting out was the last thing on my mind.  I can't speak for anyone else, but when it comes to myself and my own physical capabilities.. I try my best not to give up if I know I can do it.  


"What are we running today?"  I asked in hopes that it would be something sort of easy to ease myself back into shape after my 2 week vacation.  "A mile and a half"  This was not the response I was expecting, but okay, I can do that.  "Is that all we are doing today?" "Nope" Oh great.. I thought.  I drank some more water and and walked up to the starting line.  "Josh is trying to kill me"  He just laughed.  We should make him run this with us.  I got ready to run, I wasn't exactly anticipating the intense run ahead but complaining wouldn't do me any good, and besides I always feel good after a hard workout.  


This was the worst running experience in all my years of running.  


By the second lap I was on the verge of throwing up.  So I  went to go get some water.  While at the same time giving myself a pep talk.  I didn't know if I could finish it, but I was gonna try my best.  I walked back out into the heat and started running.  Of course, my annoying stomach had to get in the way again.. the terrible nauseous feeling wouldn't leave. But I tried not to stop.  By the middle of the third lap, my body really had it out for me.  My stomach felt like it twisted up into a giant and immensely painful knot.  I would stop every couple yards because it hurt so bad, breathing was a more difficult task than usual and I had a really bad headache.  I went ahead and  finished the lap before stopping again for some water.  


"Conner are you okay?  Go ahead and sit out" Coach tells me.  I was mortified. I've never been asked to sit out because I couldn't handle something.  Needless to say, I was feeling a very high level of frustration towards myself.  I felt like I had failed because I couldn't finish the last three laps.  I have to set goals for myself so I have something to strive for a push myself towards and in the end this makes me feel more accomplished. I stood up, I was prepared to finish what I started.  "Coach I'm going to go ahead and finish the three laps" "No it's okay" "But I can do it"  "It's fine don't worry about it, we're all about to run some more anyway."  I was a little disappointed but I had the chance to make it up.  We ended up having another mile to run and while It still hurt, I wasn't planning on stopping and I ran them almost the whole way through.  


We are imperfect beings.  But with God we have a perfect standard to work towards.  I enjoy setting goals for myself because I always end up being surprised at my own capabilities, I can keep moving the bar higher and in the end, bettering myself.   


God just wants us to give 100% in everything we do.  There was only so much I could do with my stomach hurting that bad. I gave my best so I shouldn't have been so upset with myself.  I'm not a sports obsessed nut. But I can't help but feel disappointed when I set a goal for myself and I can't complete it.  Setting goals can apply to all areas of life and it's good to have a reachable standard to work towards.  But don't beat yourself up when you can't complete a goal you've set for yourself, as long as you've given your best.  Now you have the opportunity to learn and aim for that goal again. 


In the end, our ultimate goal is Jesus Christ and completing what we have been put here to do.  Philippians 3:13-14, "Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."


{Conner Danielle}

Day 28: A Light in the Dark

Cynicism is something that this world has too much of. This world sure can feel pretty full of despair. On the news you hear about nothing but celebrities, war, shootings and debt. At least it seems like it. Every once in a while you will hear of something that cheers you some, but it's definitely in the minority. Everyone has days where the clouds don't seem to want to leave, and you can't seem to shake off the gloom over your head.

Find somebody to encourage today. Even though you may not feel so great yourself, try to help someone else out. We all know how good it feels to know that someone else cares, and encouragement on a bad day can work wonders. Life can be dark sometimes, but when we get a good breath of fresh air, and a moment in the light, it makes all the difference. We all have the power to do this for someone else. Psalm 46 says,  "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains quake at its swelling pride. The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our stronghold." With God on our side, we have nothing to fear in this world. He is our source of strength, which he gives to us to be  lights to others. We are not here to be cynical and pessimistic, but instead to spread word of the hope that we have. 

"A word of encouragement during failure is worth an hour of praise after success." 




-Andrew

Day #27: Don't Be A Complainer

If I were standing in front of a group of  little kids right now I would ask..

"So how many of you have ever complained about something."


There would be a short silence and then a majority of them would fearlessly lift their tiny innocent hands.  A few of them would look around at their peers.  There would be some giggling.  And the "louder ones" of the group would start telling me about the last time they complained about something.  There would probably be one or two that wouldn't raise their hands at all.  "You've never complained about anything.. at all?" I would probably ask them.  Knowing that they have, they would probably only shrug their little shoulders. "I have definitely done my share of complaining" I would tell them and then we would go on from there.

The truth is, everyone has complained about something.  In fact, I complained just this morning about how I wish my face would just look clear for once.  But really, if we think about it.. is complaining about how my face isn't clear really going to make it magically look fine again tomorrow morning?  Well.. probably not. Truth is, complaining doesn't get us anywhere.  If complaining were to do anything, it would probably make us feel worse and give us a bad attitude.  Philippians 2:14 says, "Do all things without grumbling or questioning". We're supposed to live without the grumbling and complaining.  Of course we aren't perfect, and yes we will probably still complain about things.  but that doesn't  mean we can't be wary of our own malcontent.  Next time you want to complain about something or someone, catch yourself.  And instead of a dissatisfied remark, use your words to bless those around you. Ephesians 4:29 says, "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear."

{Conner Danielle}

Day # 26: The Golden Rule

So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets. ~Matthew 7:12

It's one of the greatest principles ever taught, but one of the hardest to actually learn. It's one that really tests your measure of self-control and your ability to treat others with respect. Living in a family of ten should've given me adequate practice, and I ought to be a master of the Golden Rule, but I am quite a failure at it. Most of the time I let my selfish whims get the best of me.

Trying to practice the Golden Rule in everything is extremely difficult, and the ability is reserved for those in the world who got a larger slice of the perfect pie, but that does not mean that you should not try at all. Imagine a world where everyone treated everyone else with the same kind of care and respect that we treat ourselves with. We, as flawed humans, are incapable of always treating others with that kind of respect, and it shows us how much need of a savior we have. All of our shortcomings do, and there is nothing we could do by ourselves. I have plenty of opportunities to practice, but I don't. You must truly have a desire to practice it, otherwise you will never succeed.

This corrupt world is full of people who think that they are better than others. Where else would racism, classes, and all manner of inequality and evil treatment of others come from? We all do it.Some more than others, but we are all guilty of putting ourselves before others, or degrading them by what we say and do. If the golden rule was law, then there would be very little need for any other. The Golden Rule is the foundation of civility that a society should be built on. It's rather interesting that the golden rule is taught by the main religions of the world, yet finding someone who truly lives by it is very difficult. Learn to treat others how you would like to be treated, put others before yourself and you have everything to gain. Even though you probably will never be able to always live by this rule, it is at least our duty to try, and trying is all that can be asked.

Day #25: Do What It Takes.. Sorta

We live in a cruel world.  The easiest way to cope with it's insanity is to live apart from it and become only strangers. {Romans 12:2, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."} But this doesn't mean we sit on our couches all day and drink sweet tea, while becoming engrossed in a Law and Order marathon. 

We are free!  Is it fair that not all people can experience this freedom?  I don't think so.  We have a reason to sing and dance. {There's A Reason- MercyMe}  But not everyone has been presented with this marvelous and enchanting reason.  This freedom allows us to become separate from the world and live with joy even when the world around us is etched with the permanent lines of hurt, pain, and dissatisfaction. {1 Peter 2:9, "That you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness and into his marvelous light."}

I sit in the car and stare out the window.  I ask the Lord to let me see the world through his perfect eyes. The people rush by.  Do they know where they're going?  Do they realize they're lost?  I've always feared rejection.  What If I were to lose them as a friend or acquaintance if I told them about Jesus?  What if they were to get angry with me?  The Lord's quiet, patient words echoed in my ears..

What's more important?  Their life or you not feeling rejected?

He's right.  I've been rejected before and I got over it.  Even the deepest of human emotions can't last forever.  But where they will go after this is eternal.. and it will last forever. 

We have been given  duty.  A very special difficult one that will require our dedication, perseverance and faith.  To go out into this dark and dangerous world, to cut through the weeds of malice and deceit  and pave a way for Christianity. We are the salt and light of the world.  Matthew 5:13 says, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot." It will difficult but that's why we have been properly equipped. {John 17:15-18,  "I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world."}  




Lord, I want to feel your heart



And see the world through your eyes


I want to be your hands and feet


I want to live a life that leads




Ready yourselves, ready yourselves


Let us shine the light of Jesus in the darkest night


Ready yourselves, ready yourselves


May the powers of darkness tremble as our praises rise




Until the whole world hears, Lord, we are calling out


Lifting up your name for all to hear the sound


Like voices in the wilderness, we're crying out


And as the day draws near


We'll sing until the whole world hears




Lord, let your sleeping giant rise


Catch the demons by surprise


Holy nation sanctified


Let this be our battle cry




Ready yourselves, ready yourselves


Let us shine the light of Jesus in the darkest night


Ready yourselves, ready yourselves


May the powers of darkness tremble as our praises rise




Until the whole world hears, Lord, we are calling out


Lifting up your name for all to hear the sound


Like voices in the wilderness, we're crying out


And as the day draws near


We'll sing until the whole world hears




We'll sing until the whole world hears


We'll sing until the whole world hears




I want to be your hands and feet


I want live a life that leads


To see you set the captive free


Until the whole world hears.

{Casting Crowns- Until the Whole World Hears}


{Conner Danielle}

Day #24: Lighten up

  "Mistakes are the portals of discovery." 

~James Joyce

I love Ultimate frisbee, but the people I play with are extremely, I mean overly competitive. I thought I was  competitive, but some of the people out there are as, or far more so than I. Just recently we've had two injuries, one being a broken collar bone, and the other my brother's mouth. Out on the field,  you realize that to get the frisbee passed in your direction, you must first learn that catching the frisbee is the ultimate goal, and bodily injuries to yourself or others, is second priority. That's why they call it "Ultimate frisbee." Catch it, or don't expect it to visit you much after. Mistakes aren't welcome, and if you are a mistake incarnate, this is not the place for you. Sarcasm aside, mistakes aren't taken kindly to, so don't worry about it if your running full speed into a chain-link fence, it's better to be a hurt hero, than a healthy hang-up. 

All of us make mistakes, and really, mistakes are nothing to be ashamed of. It's really funny to see some of the best frisbee players make ridiculous screw-ups, and then hide their red faces behind a abashed sort of grin. That can be so satisfying. Nonetheless, it doesn't matter how good you are, whenever you get cocky, or over-confident, mistakes lie in wait of discovery. When you're finally able to overcome the embarrassment of making mistakes, you realize that often, they are just opportunities to learn. Failure is just another word for experience. Don't beat yourself up and don't over-think your shortcomings. Lighten up learn, and be an inspiration to those who follow in your failure footsteps. Dale Carnegie said, "The successful man will profit from his mistakes and try again in a different way." 

The light bulb, a small but valuable invention was created by trial-and-error and thousands of mistakes. It took Thomas Edison over 10,000 tries to find the perfect filament that could sustain and resist strong heat. When asked about his failures he said, "I have not failed, I have only found 10,000 ways that won't work." Thomas Edison persevered and learned from the mistakes that he made, and today, we have him to thank for electric light. 

"A man must be big enough to admit his mistakes, smart enough to profit from them, and strong enough to correct them." ~John Maxwell

Day #23- Don't Fight It

"Don't fight it"

This small simple 3 word phrase is all the book gave me to work with.  I'm not entirely sure what it means, but if I were to guess it would be something along the lines of what I talked about in one of my previous posts.  Learning to love it.  So for those of you who missed that one.. you're in luck!  This post will be short and sweet.

We have a 6 year old in our family.  And while she is usually very obedient and respectful, she definitely has her "moments" when she doesn't want to do things.  And when she doesn't want to do something, we all know it, our house instantly becomes a war zone. It could be something as simple as, Go get your room cleaned up OR Go clean up the mess you left in the living room and she will definitely let us know if that's something she doesn't want to do.  What would usually take about 10 minutes to complete has now turned into an hour long ordeal that normally results in a nice long time out.  If she would have just accepted in the beginning what needed to be done, this mess could have easily been avoided.  Of course, I'm not just pointing fingers at her, we're all guilty of it.  We may not all throw temper tantrums but we all have our own special little ways of showing people we don't want to do something.  Mine would be a bad attitude, something I need to learn to overcome. If we could "learn to love it" then we could easily avoid the mess that usually comes from "fighting it".

Life will be full of things we won't want to do.  I don't want to do math.. but I still have to so I might as well learn to love and make it easier for my dad as well as make it more enjoyable for myself (I still haven't figured out how to do that.) When we fight things we don't want to do, we're only making it miserable for ourselves and those around us.  So live with a cheerful attitude, let the light of Christ shine through you in everything you do! James 1:2 says, "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds."

{Phillippians 4:4, "Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say rejoice!"}


{Conner Danielle}

John 5:11 says, "I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete."

Let us live and work with the joy of the Lord!

Day #22: "Success is nothing but luck. Just ask any failure."

It Couldn't be Done

~Edgar Albert Guest

"Somebody said that it couldn’t be done,
But, he with a chuckle replied
That maybe it couldn’t, but he would be one
Who wouldn’t say so till he’d tried.
So he buckled right in with the trace of a grin
On his face. If he worried he hid it.
He started to sing as he tackled the thing
That couldn’t be done, and he did it.

Somebody scoffed: "Oh, you’ll never do that;
At least no one has done it";
But he took off his coat and he took off his hat,
And the first thing we knew he’d begun it.
With a lift of his chin and a bit of a grin,
Without any doubting or quiddit,
He started to sing as he tackled the thing
That couldn’t be done, and he did it.

There are thousands to tell you it cannot be done,
There are thousands to prophesy failure;
There are thousands to point out to you one by one,
The dangers that wait to assail you.
But just buckle it in with a bit of a grin,
Just take off your coat and go to it;
Just start to sing as you tackle the thing
That "couldn’t be done," and you’ll do it."

Anybody can say it won't work, and anybody can give up, but it is those with strength and perseverance who succeed. What are your goals? Are they difficult ones to achieve? Everyone gets discouraged, and everyone gives up, but the difference between winners and losers is the drive behind their pursuit of goals. Nathaniel Bowditch was a child when his mother died, which left his father to provide for 7 children. As was the custom of that time, his father apprenticed him for nine years, so that he could learn a trade. Nat Bowditch had a love for learning, and even though that became very difficult, he taught himself several languages, mathematics,  navigation and astronomy. At the age of 25, he was considered the brightest mathematical mind in the colonies. Even today, his book, The American Practical Navigator, is called "the seaman's bible."  Nathaniel Bowditch's story is one of perseverance. Even when his circumstance made it very difficult to learn, he persevered, and worked very hard to teach himself what he wanted to learn. He was the only man to ever graduate from Harvard university without ever setting foot in a classroom. 

Stories like these are inspiring, but most of us think that we could never be like that. Many think they are simply too normal and mediocre. Anyone who doesn't try will always be mediocre, and those who quit will fail. Sometimes competing against yourself gives us more drive to succeed. Set goals for yourself and live up to them. Whether your goal be small and personal, or great and life-changing the same rules apply. If you quit, you lose, but if you persevere, the possibilities could be endless. Thomas Edison said, "His genius he was quite content in one brief sentence to define; Of inspiration one percent, of perspiration, ninety nine." Success is the consequence of drive and sweat, if you're afraid of them, success may not be for you. In striving for goals, time is not wasted by failure. Instead, time is wasted when we fail and then give up, because we can no longer use what we have learned from our failures. Whatever it is, keep up the good work, and finish the race. 

It isn't the easy things that make us stronger, and like a tree is strengthened by lack of water, we are strengthened by failure. The trials in life are what give us gratitude for what we have, and the strength to press on. Every cloud has a silver lining.

I don't think so...