open, yet undefined, horizons

Day 26: I'm talking about realSEX, originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

I finished reading the book today and I am really excited to have the opportunities as an unmarried significant to live life "as robustly, and gospel-conforming, as [I] possibly can" (139). I am offered the "opportunity to realize that it is God who sustains [me]," as I am asked to "specialize in 'creating and protecting emptiness for God.'" Marrieds and significants alike are asked to maintain a "vacancy for God" (145).

The goal of chastity is not to attract Mr. or Miss Right by turning away from others, but to "turn your attention away from sexual and romantic entanglements with other people and orient yourself toward God" (131). Instead of allowing Prince Charming to become the object of your attentions, you must always remember that "God desires your person, your body, more than any man or woman ever will" (129).


If any of the above resonates with you, or if you are just curious to read more from Winner, let me know. I can lend you my book, as long as you don't mind the excessive highlights throughout. For those that want to obtain their own copy, Flood sells them at the table on Sundays and I'm sure they have copies in Borders as well! :D

contemplation & reflection

South Road, Loch Rannoch, originally uploaded by slimmer_jimmer.

So I had many random plans that might not happen now.
But why should I let them pass me by?

Is there anyone who has an extra bike and wants to ride with me?
Someone who would like to make dinner sometime?
Another who wants to watch some movies for no reason?

I don't have all the time in the world right now... but I will.
Come summertime, I don't want to be making excuses.
I want to get out there and do the things I talked about.

I'm not sure if I'm really feeling better...
I couldn't bring myself to do any homework yesterday.
I spent all of my time with God... and I'm okay with that!


Gems:
"study" time with Candace
late-night Barnes & Noble
discovering the sleep secret (sleep 6 or 7.5 or 9 hours... not 8)
embracing the here & now
sweet words from a Lover

because i deserve the best

Melancholy Worker, originally uploaded by Influ3nza.

I can be tough... and this is me trying.


Gems:
clarity
friends
church
God
trust

comforting words of a Lover

"For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will."

[Romans 8:24-27]

the man radiates good cheer

(85) Almost uncanny, originally uploaded by Sarajea.

"The man who radiates good cheer, who makes life happier wherever he meets it, is always a man of vision and faith."
[ Ella Wheeler Wilcox ]
So my mood has been everywhere lately, but I really need to try to stay positive. I want to stay positive. It's not even school getting me down right now and I know that it's the most important thing of the moment. Speaking of school, I should get back to work... As usual.


Gems:
waking up on time
morning Starbucks
shopping with Keith
lunch with Nicole
Urinetown tonight

what are YOU looking at?

giraffe, originally uploaded by al greer.

I am really stoked on animals right now.

I watched Nemo the other day, started costuming characters for bug costumes, just gave a presentation on fish yesterday, and now I'm watching Madagascar. I can't explain it, but I'm just trying to use it for my own advantage. Maybe I can get a bit more inspiration needed to work on my project. I just really want to finish!

The sooner I finish, the sooner I get to read my book! :D


Gems:
sleeping till 11am
muffins
Starbucks
project ideas
dinner with Jonny

overflowing with inspiration

James and the Giant Peach, originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

I'm costuming James and the Giant Peach again...

I got to explore interesting ways to portray the bugs, keeping them recognizable. Now I'm trying to really step outside of the box with my designs! I think I'm only going to do three designs this time.

I'm redesigning the earthworm, making him purple and allowing him to have arms and legs that he will just not use. His hand will stay in his pockets and he can create fun ways to show that he is not using his legs to walk.

Another that I am redesigning is the ladybug, who looks extremely cutesy in my first design. This time I'm taking her high fashion and making her yellow! :D

The last one that I designed is the Silk Worm, which was not one of the characters that I had to costume before. I love the idea for the costume, which is a tight tube dress with another oversized futuristic dress over it. The dress also has a hood that keeps the character in a sort of shadow as well.

I know that not many people care at all but it's exciting, okay?!
Deal with it!


Gems:
waking up early
"grocery" shopping
buying flowers for myself
willy wonka & wikipedia
full-credit on ed presentation

loving my body best i can

[78/366] Love your Body, originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

I've been reading lately (I know... why don't I just get homework done?!) and I think I really need to start embracing every part of me. Not just my heart, my mind, my gifts, and my uniqueness. But specifically, my body. My body really aches right now, but I want to start taking care of it. It's a temple. An essential part of God's body. I should treat it as such.

I'd love to go more into detail, but I have to run off to community group. It's going to be an intense night, so I'm a bit nervous. I need to lean on God to get through this. God be with me and my group tonight... Amen.


Gems:
extra sleep
the perfect shower
costume design
Robeks and Target
community group

when the world says give up...

listening to what counts, originally uploaded by Aradan.

When the world says, "give up," straighten up, and run till you finish the race. Run at full force. You've come this far. You've done this much. You've proven yourself already. Why is the world able to change your outlook so easily?


Am I alone?
Am I stupid?
Does no one care?
Is it not going to be ok?
Does nobody like me?
Should I give up?

No.

I am loved. I am special. I am significant. I am powerful. I am smart. I am among friends. I have Someone who cares. I am more than "ok." I have no reason to give up.

So I need to stop. Refocus. And start running in the right direction.

No more pity. No more angst. No more excuses.
Just live. And LIVE BIG!!

You have everything, God!


Gems:
sorority sisters
prayer power
end is near
clarity
drive

a little distraught over you

100_4226, originally uploaded by leslie hope.

I didn't know what else to do or where else to go... So I'm at the sorority house. I have my laptop and other homework materials with me, but I'm just broken. I need prayer. I need to pray.

Worshiping with the girls was great and I am so glad I got to hear the memorized verses as well. I just know that this is something I cannot overcome on my own. I need God's help and the support of friends to get through this time.

I don't need to make this long, but I did want to write. I'm hurt, but I'm praying for growth through these experiences. If you find that it's on your heart, please pray for my dad, my family, myself, and my home. Thank you.

i love to love you on monday

I'll love you on Monday., originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

I'm still excited about the awesome friends that were at Flood last night! It was really an amazing experience and I hope to continue growing from and learning from them.

If I don't get anything else done today, I want to at least get my history journals done and get the bulk of my theatre project done. That way I can get most of the work I need to do out of the way! I am not ready just yet to do my CA history project... Baby steps. :)

Gems:
time
friends
relaxation
photography
love

i will wear a crown of beauty

[75/366] He is the tree of LIFE., originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

I wrote this on my arm before I got baptized (it says, "He is the tree if LIFE."). It was a comforting thing for me, since I was getting pretty nervous waiting for the baptism to happen. I thought I would share it with all of you before I wash my arm... which I do pretty regularly.

The baptism was amazing and I couldn't ask for more amazing friends, who moved their schedules around to be there for me. It was really amazing for me to look out as Matt asked for my family and friends to raise their hands and see so many with their hand held high! I cannot express to all of you how much of a blessing you have been in my life!! I'm so glad that I could share that moment with all of you (the only way I wanted to experience it). Thank you for supporting me thus far!

I love you all!!


Gems:
my baptism
friends
family
Chipotle
the 80's

nothing can separate us, God

Preferred Edit, originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

"For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will" (Romans 8:24-27).

"You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator" (Colossians 7-10).

"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him" (Colossians 15-17).

I was told to do reading. This is what really stood out to me. I wanted to share it with you before I head off to bed. I am oddly nervous about tomorrow, but mainly because I found out that I'm now going to be talking up there as well. I should have realized, but it's hard to speak your heart on the spot, in front of an entire congregation. I am so glad that my dad will be there though! I guess he's making his way to Flood after all! :)

[Gems later]


"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 8:38-39).

i can fly... just let me soar

Starbucks at pdx, originally uploaded by facedorkface.

I guess the Starbucks dream is over...
I will be working at the YMCA again.
It's for the better, I'm sure.
I'm meant to work with kids.
So here I am...
Waiting for the day to soar.
Hoping the wait won't be too long.

As for the rest of the semester, I'm just going to try to not think about it and be as diligent as I possibly can be. I know it's not going to be easy but I also know that it's not helping my sanity by getting so worked up. With that said, I need to be more mindful about how I spend my time. I can't go out dancing as much as I have been and I'm going to just need to push through even when I don't understand something. I just want to get through these next two weeks alive! Prayers welcome.


Gems:
amazing night out
sleeping in
text messages
Starbucks
time for homework

how can i double my fun?

Day Fifty; 02.19.08; Mail Me!, originally uploaded by emma;duh.

I need a double... I have too much to do. I'll order online, over the phone, or a mail-in order even! Keep me updated. Let me know if you hear about anything at all. Until then, I will do my best to get everything done without losing my mind!!


A short list of To-Do's
By tuesday:
history journal #7
history journal #8
history journal #9
By thursday:
perform theatre project
prepped ed group presentation
By April 29th:
theatre opening circle prepared to present
theatre final project prepared to present
California history project
history journal #10 (and any journals that I didn't finish)
By the end of the semester:
theatre observation
math homeworks 7-12 & 15

Gems:
last night's Padres game
group planning
having everything needed
nice shower
being task-oriented

and i'm feeling... good....

Conejito , originally uploaded by sukaina. grr.

I just feel accomplished.
I got the big assignment for the day done and in.
I feel proud of our theatre project, due next week.
I took the test for math and got the half-finished hw in.
I planned out the presentation for my Ed class.
I bought the book I needed to do my history project.
I feel motivated to actually get to work.
I just want to dress up and have fun now!!


Gems:
progress
my happy Big
dancing
free pizza
double date date date

outraged and destroyed by gold star expectations

Reach for the stars! (explore!), originally uploaded by loren ashleigh.

WARNING: Please, do not read this and project it onto yourself. This is really a blog meant for me... to heal. I am really hurting and just need to share, even if no one understands. I understand that my situations are not that bad, but with my perspective and my expectations, they feel that bad. Don't comment with things saying that I could have it worse. Doesn't help. Moving on...


I slack and I make excuses and I avoid at all costs the responsibility of homework. I would do ANYTHING to keep myself distracted from actually getting work done. I don't need to be told how bad that is... I've experienced how bad it is. I've been stressed. I've cried myself to sleep. I've forfeited sleep. I've skipped huge assignments. I've missed exams. I've accumulated a great amount of reasons to never do this to myself again or allow anyone else to do it with their work. However, the cycle continues.

All this aside, it still perturbs me that I do this. Not because I get stressed, sad, or tired... but because I completely discredit myself of excelling in school. This does not mean that I do poorly in school. I don't. But sometimes I feel as if I should. And if I did do worse more often, I think I might actually learn a lesson or two from my irresponsibility. But who can seriously turn in a half-assed test, a half-finished project, or a completely fabricated homework assignment, and honestly want the grade that they expect to see.

I guess that's where the problem comes in. I don't completely expect that grade. I think it fair that I receive some of those bad grades because other people have worked harder and for more hours, but honestly, I don't expect to see low grades (unless I'm in history class or biology class). So when I get a test back that I didn't study for at all and actually see a bad grade, it's still traumatizing. And yes, I'm dramatic. But really, who doesn't get that sinking end-of-the-world feeling when they see a fat "D-" on a test?!

I haven't received any grades like that... THIS semester. Quite the contrary on work that I deem unworthy of even grading I've received A's and passed huge exams that I have completely neglected to buy study materials for. These are things that most would usually feel good about. I can't. Maybe I can't because, deep down, I still expected those A's. Or maybe I can't because I cannot fathom the thought of failing. The latter seems to me the most likely.

If that's true (that I am unable to accept a bad grade), how do I set out to get so much work done in a short amount of time. I can half-ass a test, but I can't do the same with an assignment at home. I care about each little STUPID detail and how that detail might influence the rest of the work. This thing that has helped me accomplish so much is the biggest freaking hindrance in my life right now. I'm sick of it and it discourages me from getting any work done at all. I need to get over it.

I just don't think I could listen to another person telling me that.


Gems:
having a job
deciding on an outreach
long talks over food
making the most of a no-dance night
writing a real blog

out of the water & into light

underwater, originally uploaded by g2slp.

It has been on my heart for a long time to get baptized again but the timing never seemed right. I was baptized in 1993 and although I believe that I am saved, I have made some significant changes in the way I live my life. I joined the Christian sorority, Alpha Delta Chi, and began attending the Flood church in February 2006. By surrounding myself with Christian friends and confronting fears and insecurities in my life, I was able to refocus and rededicate my life to God. With this new outlook on life, I attended the Crew Retreat with my church last semester and have decided that this is the time.

I would LOVE for you guys to be there. I understand that life is crazy right now and that it may seem rushed (most of you hardly even see me due to school), but if you have the night free I would appreciate the love and support. You don't have to tell me that you're coming, but if you feel so moved, please do. I'm very excited about this decision and more than willing to talk about it with anyone if you have any questions. I will be getting baptized THIS Sunday at Flood at the 5pm service. I hope you have a great week and pray that God meets you wherever you may be.

Much love and God's blessings,
Lauren Frances "Pebble Beach" Henry

I'm a new soul
I came to this strange world
Hoping I could learn a bit bout how to give and take
But since I came here, felt the joy and the fear
Finding myself making every possible mistake

La, la, la, la
La, la, la, la

This is a happy end
Come and give me your hand
I'll take you far away
Gems:
much needed sleep
cereal w/ rice milk
parking pass
leggings
baptism

oh... i set my eyes upon yours

(3.11) Day twentynine: love..., originally uploaded by the.new.slang {365}.

So I'm just happy.
I had some good time with God last night.
Good time with Jonny today.
Time with Big Sis right now.
Possible time with Candace tonight.
And I'm not in freak-out mode about homework.
I look forward to more good times this week...
I don't CARE if school wants to ruin it for me.

Gems:
God time
friend time
homework time
relaxation time
possible reading time?

go away, summer... fer good

[48/366] It's a tramp..., originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

I can't stand the heat.

It's not even summer yet.

I don't want to work day camp.

I want to be indoors ALL day!

I'm hoping to get employed at Starbucks.

It better happen... or I'll be pissed.

As for the time being, I'll keep working on my homework.

Since I did one thing yesterday, I must do four things today.

Good luck to me.


Gems:
seeing Noah (he might be a part of morning Kids band)
lunch with grandma and mom
time with my mom
church with Big Sis
focus!!

shhh... i'm trying to work here!

shhh..., originally uploaded by ..::dani::...

_{shhhh, shhhh
it's, oh, so quiet... shh, shh
it's, oh, so still... shh, shh
you're all alone... shh, shh
and so peaceful until...}

I've been considering Summer School... The only thing that becomes a problem if I take classes this summer is my availability to work. The only classes available to me are offered in the middle of the day. So there's no way that I would be able to work at the YMCA if I do this. I guess I might have to look for a coffee shop job after all. The times for one of my classes is M-Th @ 12-3:30 and the other is either M-W @ 8-9:40 or 4:30-6:10. Extremely lame times but I'm hoping it works itself out because taking these classes would really help me avoid my current problem of project-build-up. I'll keep you posted.


Gems:
blues dancing (I was the only follow for 3 guys by the end)
peace and quiet
smoothies from Robeks
texts and morning calls
afternoon showers

sunblock? i need block-be-gone

(280) Note to Self:, originally uploaded by Sarajea.

A short list of To-Do's by tuesday:
math homework #18
history journal #7
feedback #3
history journal #8
feedback #4

By thursday:
theatre observation
study for math exam
Ed culture bag prepared to present
Ed ethnicity poem

By the end of the semester:
math homeworks 7-12 & 15
history journal #9
history journal #10
theatre opening circle prepared to present
theatre final project prepared to present
California history project

Now must get past this ridiculous case of Senior-itis and Writer's Block!!


Gems:
seeing my dad & feeling comforted
reflection time at Corner Bakery
finally seeing and telling my sister
getting to see Lil Sis before my essay
a night of Blues dancing awaiting

three persons in perfect unity

hmm, originally uploaded by lrotts.

I'm frustrated.

It's not for a significant reason or a reasonable one at that... but that's just how I feel. I am not a bad student. Why do I feel so unmotivated? So undeserving? So inadequate?

I am acing midterms and passing CSET examinations... I would be surprised to find that I didn't pass the Capstone and I'm doing really well in history right now (a class I desperately wanted to drop!).

However, I am again faced with the fact that my math grade is slipping (out of my own foolishness) and the projects are seriously piling up for all of my classes. Are these teachers unaware that my brain is warped and deadened by that Capstone? Are they unaware that it's near to impossible to fake sincerity in busy work?

I am NOT able to do this on my own. I am NOT able to get through these trials on my own merit. I am NOT able to finish this rat race just because I want it. I absolutely NEED God. I NEED my friends. I NEED my family. I NEED my community. I NEED relationships. And I NEED to be open to them and the possibilities that lie ahead.

Make me less SELF-reliant and more INTER-reliant.
Bring me into CONSTANT communion with You and those around me.
Show me the ignorance of my frustration through undeniable LOVE!


Gems:
memories
ideas forming
lighting that fire
coming summer
trust in Him

so, as the picture below says...

(273) Just showing up, originally uploaded by Sarajea.

I really don't have much more to say.


Gems:
Starbucks
home alone
buying the play
community group!
Jonny makes breakfast

hold me tight, tonight.. it's you

Frankie & Jonny, originally uploaded by Beauty fer Ashes.

Tonight was a good night for dancing.
Hardly anyone recognized Candace with her new hair.
It was pretty amusing actually.

Tomorrow's Agenda: Homework till 5pm, Community Group at 6pm, and then time with Jonny around 9:30 or so. I really hope I get a decent amount of work done during the day. I don't want this work looming over me for too long!


Gems:
early morning shower
lunch with Nicole & Maria
no homework due today
dancing in San Diego
time with the boy :)

relationships... for dummies

.happy engagement., originally uploaded by Tomme Hilton Gallery.

...?..?..?...
What happened?

My disgust for flowers.
For the color pink.
My distaste for ballads.
For his & her tees.
Vanishing...
Into the sinking sunset.
With a soothing breeze.
As it softly whispers...

Till it overcomes me.
........

Now that I've stalled for a couple hours or so, I'm going to get back to the homework I should be working so diligently on. That poem was just unavoidable. My heart is opening, growing, and feeling more vulnerable than ever. I would see it as a bad thing, but I think it's exactly what I've needed all along.

Dear Lord -- hold me, guard me, protect me, but above all, help me to remain open to Your plan.


Gems:
Robeks
time with Big
observation time
dinner with Brandy
watching tv just for fun

will you, please, inspire me...

Inspire me!, originally uploaded by Leaca's Philosophy.

... to do my homework?


Gems:
mental health day
Frippleville
great message
seeing Candace
studying with Jonny

home safe, but not too sound

1. No Reserve, originally uploaded by lynette-marie.

I landed in San Diego at 9:15 and Jonny picked me up from the airport. I got to hang out with him and catch up before picking my car up from Veronica's house. It was nice to just be back home and realize how NOT cold the "cold" San Diego weather is! LoL.

Well on the way to my home, I stopped in to use the restroom at my parents house and to say "hi." I let myself in, waking my dad who was asleep on his chair, and went to the bathroom. I went over to chat him up a bit before getting on my way again when I realized that he was sick. He's really been feeling awful and actually rode in the ambulance for the first time this week!

My mom is in Colorado for my cousin's wedding and my dad has been home alone. So he's been dealing with some back pain and a slight ringing in his ears. It only got worse from there and he thought he was having a heart attack, so he called 911! In the Emergency Room, the doctor realized that the aspirin he had been taking for his back pain was causing his ears to ring, his indigestion, and the heartburn. He took so much aspirin that he developed an ulcer, which is what caused the pain he had mistaken for a heart attack.

The good news is that he is doing better right now. He's home and eating better and exercising more and getting plenty of rest. The bad news is that the ringing in his ears may be permanent (he's always had perfect hearing) and the ulcer may develop into something worse. To be completely frank, I'm scared. I'm scared for my dad and for our family. My dad means so much to me and I don't think that he's saved. He turned away from religion after a young age.


My request is that you pray for my dad and my family.
Please pray that God has His hand our all our conversations.
Pray that my sister, mom, and I can share God's love with him.
Most of all, pray for healing, for health, and for faith.


It's in His hands and I trust His plan for my life.

just bluesing the night away

Andrew and Vanessa, originally uploaded by ohtoberich.

The blues party last night was really fun. Emily gave us a out-of-towner's circle and the dancing was hot! I'm happy and sad leaving Seattle today. I had a blast with no responsibilities and just getting to know so many new people... But I miss all my friends at home. I don't know what I'm going to end up doing in a year and a half when I am actually out of school. It will be so difficult leaving my dance scene, my coffee spots, my dance partners, my friends, and my family. I guess only time will tell.

It doesn't have to be decided now, I suppose.
I'll just keep dancing wherever I am.
Maybe I'll find myself in another state.
And maybe not.


Gems:
feelin' the burn
blues circle
Seattle friends
breakfast by Emily
flying home

winding down from the week

[59/366] I Wanna Push Da Button!, originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

So I guess we're finally winding down a bit and pulling our stuff together for our flight back home to San Diego. Veronica and I had a little fun trying to figure out how the washer and dryer work here. Just getting the washer to open up was a huge ordeal. LoL. It's cool though. First load is in the dryer and the second is in the washer. :)

We didn't take many photos today. Actually, Veronica didn't take any photos at all. I took a whopping total of four. It's cool though. They rock. And so does Anthropology, which is pretty much the only store I enjoyed walking around during today's shopping day. But it was nice meeting up with Veronica's high school friend David. Nice guy and fun times.

Okay. Over da blogging. Peace.


Gems:
kitty love
bus rides
extra photos
laundry
blues party tonight

crazy awesome day of fun

Snapshot Two, originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

We had an amazing day just spending time with Bobby and taking pictures at all the biggest landmarks of Seattle. If you are interested in seeing photos, you should visit my flickr and click on the Seattle folder. I have some really great photos in there... And there are a few that crept their way into Verona's camera and Bobby's GREAT camera. I got to play with his macro add-on and I hope to get some of those photos to show you soon (and I DID!).
With Bobby's help, we made it to the Fremont Bridge Troll, Alki Beach, and Gasworks Park. We almost made it to the ferry after dancing tonight but would not have had a ride back if we went that late. So we're planning for tomorrow. So far tomorrow's agenda is: wake up late, get brunch, meet Verona's friend at 1pm, go shopping, dinner, ferry ride with Bobby at 8:10pm, and then blues dancing till the early morn.

If you have been wondering what's up with my awkward times and backlogging, I'm just not worrying about it THIS week. It won't be staying this way. I'm not limiting myself to only one a day this week. But this week only. :)

4/3 Gems:
sleeping in
mooberry
photo shoots
macro shots
even more dancing

music is pretty much my life

[57/366] Music Tornado, originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

I am going out dancing tonight and I'm excited and feeling rushed. As I write this my ride is here. Off I go. Gems later.
I want to see Forbidden Planet. :)

... it's later ...

Gems:
black tea-lemonade
sci-fi love
Spaghetti Factory
swing dancing
rides from friends

the weather outside is frightful

Don't Smile., originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

It's cold here.
I'm sure you didn't know.
Today was pretty good.
We explored Pike's Market Place...
& Seattle's Best coffee...
& original Starbucks coffee...
& Sculpture Park...
& taxi ride...
& leisure time while Verona napped...
& now... We're off to dinner.
Lombardi's maybe?

Gems:
nice shower
fun hat
Seattle's Best
sculpted art
blues dancing tonight

seattle, my senses are tingling

Mosaic Monday: Too sexy, originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

Today was good but tonight was phenomenal!
I had a lazy day with Verona this afternoon.
We have a great agenda mapped out for tomorrow.
As for tonight's amazingness...
I just love that the clothing styles are totally different.
That the people are super funny.
The dancing isn't out of my league, but totally new and fun!
I'm making friends and just enjoying the perks away from school.
I look forward to our day at Pike's Place, the Sculpture Park, Spaghetti Factory, and blues dancing the night away... For those who feel as seriously deprived of blues dancing as I do can understand the excitement I'm experiencing.
Now, sleep.
I need to shower and get a morning coffee before embarking on the day ahead of us tomorrow! :D

3/31 Gems:
safe flights on southwest
texting my loved ones
swedish sculptures
coffee addictions
perfect dancing

don't talk to me... still morning

morning, originally uploaded by gumby*.

Soooooo tired.

We have a place to stay.
Taking a taxi into the city.
It's still way too early.
Gems to come later.

Now, go away!!

don't leave me on that jet plane

A Very Large Giraffe, originally uploaded by Sebastian Niedlich (Grabthar).

I'm taking off for Seattle tomorrow morning at 7:30am.
So, I must be awake at 4:30am.
For those who know me, this is no shocker...
I'M NOT A MORNING PERSON!
I'm not sure if I'm really looking forward to tomorrow.

We'll see.


Gems:
quality time with Big
tv mania
laundry day
eating leftovers
sleeping at Veronica's

no boys... i just wanna dance

{Week 8} I Just Wanna..., originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

If boys come near me, I'll tazer 'em... **TZZ**

I'm a JAZZ baby... Little jazz baby, that's me!!


Veronica, I'm jealous of you, girl! I want to get into a performance dance class again. I feel deprived of the performance world. Swing dancing is amazing but it's just not the same as moving to your own beat, your own rhythm. So if you see me swaying and leaping in the streets for no apparent reason, don't be surprised!


Gems:
sleeping in!!
white skirts
smoothies
car rides
selfies

la-la-la-la-la-life is wonderful

[52/366] Life is Dandy, originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

in a field of yellow flowers
underneath the sun
bluest eyes that spark with lightning
boy with shoes undone
he is young, so full of hope
reveling in tiny dreams
filling up his arms with flowers
right for giving any queen

running to her, beaming bright
while cradling his prize
a flickering of yellow light
within his mother's eyes
she holds them to her heart
keeping them where they'll be safe
clasped within her very marrow
dandelions in a vase

she sees love where anyone else would see weeds
all hope is found, here is everything he needs

fathomless Your endless mercy
weight I could not lift
where do I fit in this puzzle?
what good are these gifts?
not a martyr or a saint
scarcely can I struggle through
all that I have ever wanted
was to give my best to You

Lord, search my heart
create in me something clean
...dandelions...
You see flowers in these weeds

gently lifting hands to heaven
softened by the sweetest hush
a Father sings over His children
loving them so very much
more than words could warrant
deeper than the darkest blue
more than sacrifice could merit
Lord, I give my heart to you

Lord, search my heart
create in me something clean
...dandelions...
You see flowers in these weeds

Lord, search my heart
create in me something clean
...dandelions...
You see flowers in these weeds

Gems:
finished hw
hilarious texts
puppy love
Starbucks
time with boy

you're just walking the line

[51/366] Walk the Line, originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

So today was the last day of class before Spring Break for me. I went to two classes and got out around 3:15. I checked my phone on my way out of class and had a text from Jonny. I gave him a call and to my surprise, he was already at State. So I crossed the BAM bridge and walked along the sidewalk until I could see him walking in the distance. I snapped two shots and he pulled out his cell to text to me that he could see me. LoL.

It was a nice time to hang out and talk before running off yet again. We live some busy lives. I can hardly keep up with myself sometimes! So I'm off to bed. Getting up to take a shower and get some more homework done in the morning. I'm stoked... Can't you tell?!

Gems:
spring break
spring break sudoku
spring break Nicole
spring break Big
spring break surprises

wanna adopt 'em, not make 'em

Eat, drink, and be merry, originally uploaded by jwlphotography.

I love asian babies. I look forward to the day that I can care for children of my own. I would love to adopt as well. I have been encouraged to do so more and more over the past year or so. It was never something that entered my mind before, but now I think it's exactly what I would need to complete my family.

That being said, LOOK AT THE BABY ABOVE!! Soooooooo cute. For those that are shocked and disgusted by the explicit use of alcohol in this photo, the child has pomegranate juice spilled on her shirt, not wine. Look how happy that baby girl is. I'd steal her away if I could!
It's almost Spring Break, kiddos... Eat, drink responsibly, and be merry!!


Gems:
playing around on Flickr
reconciling with Brandy
hanging with Veronica
seeing Candace soon
Flood College tonight

by your eyes smitten: it shows

You lead, I follow., originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

I just can't wait to go dancing tonight. I've been distant. Off in thought far too much. I need more than grounding. I need to live in the moment. Not in the to-do's. Not in the could-be's. Not in the should-have's. So tonight is the test. I hope I'm able to remember.
I want to live each moment for what it is. Right then. I want to appreciate the time spent dancing. Not get caught up in the crowd. Not get caught up in the insufficient dance floor. Not get caught up in the missed dances. Not get caught up in my thoughts most of all.
As for now, in order to prepare for tonight, I will get dressed, get dolled up, and then get in the Word. God's calling me and I'm not going to ignore Him this time!!

Gems:
rides to school
Veronica's SF
worry-free day
perfect God time
tonight's dancing

sweet words flow from my lips

Sweet Lips......, originally uploaded by Hulalulatallulahoop.

"One of the hardest things in life is having words in your heart that you can't utter."
(James Earl Jones)

"Discontent if the first step in the progress of a man or a nation."
(Oscar Wilde)

"Love can help us, love can break us,
Love can do things never done before.
Love is a feeling we find appealing,
Love is the thing that makes us soar."
(Michael Roberts)

I am excited about Spring Break and excited about my growth.
Lent was a real learning experience and I'm glad I did it.
Now, I just can't figure out how I'll ever watch TV again.
It seems so against my nature to do so!
I haven't watched it all day...
I will only watch random TV when another person turns it on.
As for my shows, I'll watch those for sure!!

Gems:
rest
babysitting
new photo projects
seeing my Big
silence

He's an awesome God & reigns

Easter Sunday: A living sacrifice, originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

I don't follow directions.
They told us to stand during worship again...

side note: I don't like to be told how I should be worshipping.

However, for once, I didn't stay seated out of defiance, but for the sake of this drawing. When I feel so moved by the Spirit, I draw. I love it. I wish I were moved this greatly on a regular basis.


God is great!

Jesus on the Cross, originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

Gems:
FloodKids
family time at lunch
Easter Service at Flood
breaking Lent with Lifehouse
movies with Jonny

drained in the very best way

Day 40: Chocolate delicacy, originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

The food was definitely too much for one. So I shared.
Jonny's going to be upset that I used this as my photo for the day (opposed to the great quality photos taken by others), but I'm okay with that because I need my photo before I go to sleep.

To sum it up: Today was amazing. Perfect


Gems:
my carpool pal
California Adventures
Bug's Life area!!
Club 33
vulnerability

paying tribute to my mommy

Day 39: Mr. Green chops..., originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

Mr. Green chops, it dices, it slices... it cuts ya DEEP!

But most of all, it wakes me all warm and fuzzy knowing that my mom saw it and thought of me. It's my favorite shade of green and I was able to use it to cook dinner for the most beloved people!!


Gems:
the perfect pair
grocery shopping
green ceramic knife
apples to apples
beloved people

it's been a hard day's night

Day 38: Jesus take the wheel, originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

I'm living too much for myself and by myself.
Renew me and guide me each step of the way, Lord!

And for the first time in a long time
She bowed her head to pray.

She said I'm sorry for the way
I've been living my life
I know I've got to change!

So from now on tonight:


Jesus take the wheel
Take it from my hands
Cause I can't do this on my own

I'm letting go

So give me one more chance
To save me from this road I'm on


Oh, Jesus take the wheel
Oh, I'm letting go
So give me one more chance
Save me from this road I'm on

From this road I'm on

Jesus take the wheel
Oh, take it, take it from me

Oh, why, oh
Gems:
almost Spring Break
stress-free classes
not getting marked down
Cafe Sevilla
Disneyland
Club 33

seek. find. accept. grow. give.

Day 37: Spring brings new life, originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

I just pray for those trying to find the boldness to bring friends and family to Easter this Sunday. May you find the courage through God and open the possibilities of growth in your own life and theirs!

p.s. I want to conclude Lent with a viewing of the Passion of the Christ.
Whether after midnight Sunday or during the day Monday, that's what I hoping for. Anyone else want to join me?! I've never seen it and would love to share the experience, whether you've seen it before or not. :)


Gems:
actually blogging before midnight
immense community group love
transformation through worship
time with Lauren, my love
breakfast with Terry

thirty-two and a third times

Day 36: Flickr locked me out., originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

"In an effort to get people to look
into each other’s eyes more,
the government has decided to allot
each person exactly one hundred
and sixty-seven words, per day.

When the phone rings, I put it
to my ear without saying hello.
In the restaurant I point
at chicken noodle soup. I am
adjusting well to the new way.

Late at night, I call my long
distance lover and proudly say
I only used fifty-nine today.
I saved the rest for you.

When she doesn’t respond, I know
she’s used up all her words
so I slowly whisper I love you,
thirty-two and a third times.
After that, we just sit on the line
and listen to each other breathe."

- Jeffrey McDaniel

I should do this.



Gems:
turning in all of today's work
ace-ing the history midterm
having a full car for Henry's
dancing & shooting at the pub
grabbing a late bite at Lestat's

who wants to hit up a pub?

Day 35: Here's my flair., originally uploaded by perkyNbLue.

I have been grumbling about the fact that St. Patrick's Day falls on Holy Week (last time that happened was in 1940). I then realized, although I don't want to celebrate the holiday now, I still really want to go to a brewery or a pub and get some good food! I don't remember the last time I've been to a brewery. Maybe I can convince Terry to go there for dinner tonight. Oh yeah, Terry's here from Colorado. I get to spend the afternoon with him. Hopefully I won't be out too late to do the homework I've been ignoring all weekend.

Gems:
my red shoe mosaic
an odd sense of clarity
fun week has begun!!
seeing Terrance
my salvation