Finding me...

2010-08-26T20:44:00.002-04:00

My life in a quick nutshell

CRAZINESS.

OK. So it's not totally crazy, but it feels like it. I seriously feel like a mom whose not ready to be a mom yet! Cause I'm not! DJ won't eat dinner most of time...and it beats me how to get him to eat. Rewards to punishments, it doesn't matter...he is so much LIKE I WAS. hahaha. So, I have no idea what to do about that.

Work has been picking up, which is good, I just wish we were getting better tips :/ *sighs* people please love me. hahahaha. No. Seriously. I need to feed people.

I read Blink of an Eye again by Ted Dekker. O. My. Gosh. I love that book! It intrigues me like no other book I've ever read! Not only have I always been slightly obsessed with Saudi Arabia's history, but also with getting to the real root of who God is and what religion is.

God is love.
Religion is (seemingly, usually based in) power.
People who love are of God.
People who are of power are of themselves.

This book screams of love, REAL faith, and the power of prayer...that part gets me everytime! How Seth is able to look at Clive and say (I'm para-phrasing) 'after I prayed someone changed the possible futures I see, so what I'm saying is that prayer may be one of mankinds most powerful tools'
WOW
What a concept! It moves me to think of this.
Then when Miriam confronts Seth and tells him that just because he can't see the possible futures in his mind doesn't mean that they don't exist, and it doesn't mean that the only way they will succeed is if he knows what to do, because God knows...and He can lead us into the best future for us.
:')
this gives me hope!

So, those are some of my thoughts.
I want to love you as myself
I want to trust God with undeterred faith.
I want to pray, knowing that God is all powerful and to be moved by this!

But...moving on.
For modeling, Jim is hopefully going to be free after this week (YAY!) and then we will arrange a time for a photoshoot (probably sometime in September!) and then we'll get started! I'm really going to go after this! Giving it all I got...putting energy, time, and prayer into it. I want this. I'm going to go after it. And at the same time I want to be led by God. I want to rest in His undying love for me, His unending grace that renews me EVERY time I seek it. Ah, I wish I sought it more! That I swam in it every day. Today, today I have decided that my life will be changed. I will love you as myself, I will trust God with my whole life. And I will fully acknowledge (to all the extent that I can!) that it is because of His love for me that I can. O! and how He loves me...

The other day Josh and I went to the Y to work out, and for some reason I felt led to turn to this song. I think this is when God started moving in me this week. I almost cried with gratefulness...feeling closer to God than I had in so long...knowing that this was real worship, and it hadn't come about because of me! It was all because of God :)

"Here I am, Lord, and I'm drowning in your sea of forgetfulness
The chains of yesterday surround me
I yearn for peace and rest
I don't want to end up where You found me
And it echoes in my mind, keeps me awake tonight
I know You've cast my sin as far as the east is from the west
And I stand before You now as though I've never sinned
But today I feel like I'm just one mistake away from You leaving me this way

Jesus, can You show me just how far the east is from the west
'cause I can't bear to see the man I've been come rising up in me again
In the arms of Your mercy I find rest
'cause You know just how far the east is from the west
From one scarred hand to the other

I start the day, the war begins, endless reminding of my sin
Time and time again Your truth is drowned out by the storm I'm in
Today I feel like I'm just one mistake away from You leaving me this way

I know You've washed me white, turned my darkness into light
I need Your peace to get me through, to get me through this night
I can't live by what I feel, but by the truth Your word reveals
I'm not holding on to You, but You're holding on to me
You're holding on to me

Jesus, You know just how far the east is from the west
I don't have to see the man I've been come rising up in me again
In the arms of Your mercy I find rest
'cause You know just how far the east is from the west
From one scarred hand to the other
One scarred hand to the other
From one scarred hand to the other"

So, with that, I rest my life in God's hands!
His loving tender hands...
grace...love...faith...prayer!

~Delian Jayce
P.S. God, if by any chance this is a possibility, I would totally love to play the role as Aravis from Horse and His boy and/or Miriam from Blink of an Eye...
thanks!
:) <3

2010-08-13T14:32:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone!

Has anyone seen Night at the Museum? If you haven't great sadness, if you have, well, then you'll understand my post :).

Starring in this remarkable movie is Amelia Earhart (played by Amy Adams). Throughout the whole movie her goal is to teach Larry that life is meant to be lived not just frowned through, but really and truly lived...she called it 'moxy'. She once tells Larry that he's lost his moxy...

well, me too.

I've gotta get it back. Somebody told me that this was how to get it.

"My advice is WANT IT! Cuz right now you're accepting everything too blandly. And the most fun people are those who view all of life as fun and hilarious with a hint of cynicism. You can choose to have more fun, adjust your head accordingly and jump right in."

So, here goes, this has been my moxiness for today!

For starters, I did my workout. I meditated while I drove back home from the Y, thinking about how I can relearn to open up to God. It's so hard for me to comprehend, even though at once in my life it used to be like breathing. I need to learn how to have real emotions again. I will learn. I will try my hardest. I will accept the fact that I can't control life, that I need to completely depend on God, while completely giving my all in striving towards Him. Completely surrender while at the same time never stop fighting. Ah, life is full of oxymorons!

I stopped by Wegmans (of course!) cause I needed... COCONUT OIL! FOR... Deodorant! It turned out great!! :) really happy about that!

And then daddy was out in the garden, bringing in loads upon loads of cukes, corn, and other various veggies! So now we're selling cukes, made some salsa, and now figuring out what else other than corn we'll have for dinner!

God is good to me...even when I don't realize it, or when I can't seem to feel it.

"Undo" by rush of fools. Good song, God is speaking to me through it, and my mind knows it, but my heart is still...ignoring it. Words bounce off...emotions get choked.

Slowly I'll get to the point where I"m totally dependent on God...until then, God please forgive me for who I am...I still love you, I want you...

I love you...come find me. Bring me some moxy.

"bring me back to the place of forgiveness and grace...I need you and I need your help I can't do this myself, you're the only one who can undo what I've become"

With much love

~Delian Jayce

2010-07-31T09:40:00.001-04:00

This song equals me.

If weakness is a wound that no one wants to speak of
The "cool" is just how far we have to fall
And I'm not immune, I only want to be loved
But I feel safe behind the firewall

Can I lose my need to impress?
If you want the truth I need to confess

I'm not alright, I'm broken inside, broken inside
And all I go through, it leads me to You, it leads me to you

Burn away the pride
Bring me to my weakness
Until everything I hide behind is gone
And when I'm open wide with nothing left to cling to
Only You are there to lead me on.

'Cause honestly, I'm not that strong.

I'm not alright, I'm broken inside
Broken inside
And all I go through, it leads me to You
It leads me to You
Closer to You

And I'll move,
and I'll move,
and I'll move,
Closer to You (x3)

I'm not alright I'm broken inside
Broken inside
I'm broken inside, Broken inside
And all I go through leads me to You
Leads me to You

I'm not alright, I'm not alright
I'm not alright

... that's why I need You.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2LCvCBaqVg&feature=avmsc2

2010-07-29T09:20:00.006-04:00

My life in a nutshell:

Watching the kids since mum and Gideon are off in Baltimore.
(a) Gideon is doing very well! He has a blog up for those who want to check it out!
(b) Gabriel and DJ are doing pretty well, I mean they're little boys, so ya know! They can be a little crazy, even though they like to get cuddly with me so that they can watch a movie ;). Lol, actually that's not true, all I have to do is ask and they pretty much cuddle with me no matter what.
(c) Neeki has been top shelf! She's been great at watching the kids, helping cleaning, cooking and laundry! Huge props to her awesomeness!

I've also been working at the o'l HCUP
(a) I have almost ever saturday off until September!!! I have no idea how Ary did that but I totally love her for it!
(b) Espresso has been coming out amazingly the last few days.
(c) I'm pretty sure that if I have another creepy dream with Andy beating up people I'll have to beat him up.
(d) Ary is headed off on a missions trip to Prague for 10ish days! I'm so excited for her and praying that God uses that time for some really amazing growing!
(e) organic milk steams better than all other milk.

The boyfriend
(a) Josh is amazing. I'm not trying to be sappy, I'm saying this straightup. I can be a straight up B*@# to him and he's still there, loving me, being stern, telling me that I need to grow (he's learning that the only way I really listen is if he tells me I hurt him, otherwise I push it aside pretty easily), but he's still loving me everystep. He's my bestfriend with a couple of extra plus's ;). Like he can cuddle with me and watch amovie, and he can get me water and a blanket, or when I'm sick he makes sure I'm ok. He helps me with my relationship with God more than anyone! He's helping me more and more everyday to love God, and begin to really start loving other people too. And helping me to learn how to trust.
(b) he still needs to get abs ;). hahahaha just for you josh!

Extra Stuff
(a) Gardening
(b) Pickling Cucumbers. It's my first time doing anything like this before! It's going well so far minus the fact I ran out of vinegar lol.
(c) Painted some again
(d) hopefully going to do a photoshoot with Molly soon! <3 <3
(e) tomorrow I hang out with Jess before she finally gets to go to her hubby and start her new life! <3 <3

Music
(a) Muse
(b) Rise Again
(c) Anberlin
(d) Paramore some
(e) Radiohead!
(f) Metric
(g) Staind
(h) a bunch of other random stuff. Mostly Muse right now. :) :)

ok. that's all!
I'm out
;)
~Delian Jayce

PS Jim (the guy who is going to be putting together my modeling portfolio) is planning on coming to 'shoot' me soon! As soon as he gets senior pictures out of the way! I'm so excited, and really nervous! But It'll be great!!!

2010-07-16T12:39:00.003-04:00

Dear World and its inhabitants,

Today I come forward with several questions (stop)

I ask, first, how do I survive? And not only just survive, but how do I thrive in this life?

Second, how do I stay balanced when everything is so toppy swervy?

And lastly, how do I help and love you? I want to, everyday, every second, but, I need to be able to act on those desires, but often I get stuck, how do I move forward and show that I care for you? Even if you don't care that I do?

Sincerely
~Delian Jayce

2010-06-30T09:09:00.003-04:00

Learning Moments...and my thoughts about them!

Between the ages of, O, 2 and 17, I always remember having these "learning moments", moments when I did something (or someone else did) something so entirely stupid I was embarrassed (and sometimes I would feel sick to my stomach about it). It would affect me so much I would abhor the thought of doing it again! For instance, I can remember the time when it dawned on me that I was being RUDE to Joe St. Angelo when I was younger...and I was 'enlightened' in a sheer moment of embarrassment (within which I felt sick enough to throw up, I am not sure why that would happen), then I would try my hardest NEVER to be that way again! Another time I remember I accidentally hit somebody with my coat when I was putting it on, and this other person made such a big deal out of it that everyone in the room heard and some people came over to see what happened...and I think it did hurt this person, but I always remember thinking that I would do anything I could to ignore the pain someone else had accidentally inflicted upon me! I know I don't learn from these moments I've had perfectly...but I do learn!

However, I realized something, and it has been 're'dawning on me every so often...
I don't feel like I've been having those 'learning moments' as often anymore! And I WISH I DID! I don't feel like I'm...'growing up' anymore! AND I MISS IT! Cause I KNOW...I know for SURE, that there are SO many things in life I need to learn...and I want it to be CLEAR to myself...cause without those learning moments where I felt struck on the head and my eyes all the sudden saw a bigger piece of the picture, I forget that I need to learn something, or at least forget the necessity of it!

I'm trying to 'train' myself now to be open to those possible learning moments! I want to grow, I want to be ever learning, and always growing in the grace of God! In His strength, wisdom and knowledge! I want to be well learned in Love! Well prepared for anything God would have me do! A strong and able prayer warrior!

God continue teaching me
and PLEASE...please God,
open my heart to your lessons!

2010-06-24T20:29:00.002-04:00

Dear World.

Summer is arriving! Finally! It makes me happy to know that the sunshine is going to be here for a little while!

I painted my nails greenish the other day...I thought it was...'watery'

I read about Esther this morning...she inspires me SO much! I mean, for real, she gets to the harem (where she has to go through 'beautifying' for 12 months!) and when she gets there the 'head guy' is like "wow! this chic is awesome!" and she wins favor with him for being such an awesome person! And then she is liked by everyone! Then the KING finds favor with her (after she takes the advice of the 'headguy') and she then finds favor with him two more times when she makes him dinner (seriously, making good food will...make a king give you half of his kingdom which happens to stretch as far as ASIA?!) Plus she makes her ARCH enemy HAMAN like her! Seriously what was this girl about?!
I have a feeling she was optimistic! Open to others advice (willing to listen). Humble (I mean you have to be if you're willing to listen to other people). I have a feeling she was able to look at the bright side of things. (PLUS she probably could cook, or at least had some great hospitality skills!) Including her bravery in the face of possible death (after having the strength to fast from food and drink for 3 days!) which also speaks amazingly of her prayer life! Not to mention her ability to lead by example since she had her maidens and friends also fast and pray!

A lot to be inspired by!
I hope that God makes me into a modern day Esther :) :)

2010-06-16T15:48:00.001-04:00

water is enchanting...i can't help it...its so...magical. :)

2010-06-12T16:02:00.002-04:00

Isn't it funny when something can be so much MORE fun after you do some hard work first!!! :) :) I didn't even do very much...but posting this post is SO much more rewarding since I did something first (which was cleaning up my Tipi) lol! Its super hot...I wish modesty didn't exist. O well. I suffer anyway.

I SUPER LOVE being a barista when the espresso is amazing! <3 Which it was today :) :) you all should have gotten some.

but hey. what is everyone doing for devotions??? How has God encouraged you lately?! <3 let me know!!!

2010-06-10T18:13:00.003-04:00

I need to have great abs in 2 weeks. hahahahaha
h.e.l.p!

any tips or advice?!?!

2010-06-10T18:13:00.001-04:00

I need to have great abs in 2 weeks. hahahahaha
h.e.l.p!

any tips or advice?!?!

2010-06-09T11:00:00.002-04:00

Today I wrote a letter to my old self...apart of myself I feel like I've lost. I wrote to that 'me' and asked how to get her back. That part of me which was consistent, naturally happy and positive, stable and steadfast...that me who seemed to be growing instead of...stuck.
Cause I feel so stuck!
Then I get a kick in the throat when I think about all the advice I give to other people who are struggling with this as well...and how I am such a sore loser...I don't take my own advice! I don't go to the source of positivity for a positive spirit! I don't go to the Prince of Joy for happiness! I don't go to the One who knows who I can be and wants to help me be that person! I feel like laughing and crying! Why don't I? Do I doubt? Do I not know that He is COMPLETELY CAPABLE of breathing me into the best person He knows I can be...THROUGH HIM! O God...please breathe me into that being...

2010-05-11T16:10:00.003-04:00

am I alone?
why when I call out I think I hear you
then the world brings me down
before I feel you pick me up?
am I running
or am I sleeping?
Have I awaken from this nightmare and begun to live it?
or is it safely placed in my mind?
cause even though it might tear me apart
its better that it only tears me apart
not the ones I love
do I love?
am I loved?
desperate questions whirling about in a despairing storm
can i be content just to love?
or should i fight to have it for myself as well?
do you scorn me?
do I scorn you?
where am I?
where are you?
am I alone...
or are you there?
do you despise me?
or do you love me for who I am?

2009-11-24T09:59:00.001-05:00

I have gone through a lot in the last three years; betrayal, bitterness, learning real love, and trying to find out what the church really is. I will not go into details about what I've experienced since I am trying to love...even through my continuing hurt (and I do ask for prayer for that!).

But what I want to ask you today, for a discussion that can hopefully broaden everyone's mind and for us to really dig into what our true beliefs really are so that we can stand even more firm before each other and more importantly, before Christ.

What is the church?

How is it defined?

Where is it?

Can we experience it in a building only on Sundays?

How is it to be experienced?

What is our role in the church?

Is where most 'believers' meet (most well known for 'church') especially in America, set up in a way that is most beneficial to the people it impacts?

I don't want there to be any negative arguments, I don't need that and neither does anyone else. If what you have to say will build up another person towards Christ then please let it be said, otherwise, post on a different topic. Thank you everyone, I hope this can not only help me, but other people as well.

May God's love for me flow through me to you...

~jayci

2009-04-23T15:29:00.002-04:00

Hey Hey Hey
This is for Tehya :P lol that's my way of spelling it from now on.
I have now moved into the library upstairs so that I don't have to live in the dungeon. lol. pretty excited about that! lol.
Life goes on...just had a crazy afternoon at work...Meara and I were going to go crazy and then Kasey came to save us. YAY!
lol. So awesome.

But yeah, life goes on...not doing a whole lot...I LOVE GUMMYBEARS...!!!!!!

2009-02-09T15:18:00.002-05:00

Well, the sun is shining outside, I laid out on the porch and soaked up some sunshine... it helps :).

2009-01-11T12:23:00.004-05:00

I don't really think a lot of people are going to read this... and that is fine by me :). Really, I just sort of want to rant and sort out my thoughts... knowing that God made me human, that I have human emotions and that God is still God and He loves me... and even if other people believe that I do not want to glorify God with my whole being... His thought is what matters. By saying that I don't mean to say that I don't think that people, by seeing me, would think that I was not trying to glorify God with my life, I surely hope that people DO see God... with every smile... every word and every breath I breathe!!! It's more of I have been accused of not glorifying God (without people asking me... or even talking to me), and people making assumptions about me that were (are) false. This is me saying I am sick of it... tired... hurt... and am seeking comfort. I need God... I have God. I am satisfied in Him... but I am sorting through my life and realizing that my emotions are NOT bad. They are reactions to what has happened to me... the problem comes in when I do not take it to God. This is me... admitting that I AM HUMAN... I HAVE EMOTIONS... and that YES I am seeking to give them to God. Whether or not you judge me for my emotions hardly matters. If you love me as a person... know me well enough to bring concerns to me that is fine... but if it is not done in love... your concern will fall on a wounded heart like burning oil. Sure, it might help... but it'll be more painful than if you had tenderly reached out with clean bandages and soft words.

I am hurt... hurt by what has happened to me and my family and those I hold dearly in my heart.
I am angry at what has happened... the WRONG things that have been done...
God has given me the ability to still love, but believe me, it hurts to love... and there is always a struggle to love... not because I do not want to... but when you go to love someone who continually strikes at you or what they did left such a scar that when you remember anything its like rubbing salt in the wound.
I am sad... incredibly sad that people could be the way they are... but who am I to judge? I am NOT. I know that without God I DO NOTHING good. "Every good gift and perfect gift comes from above." I am SAD. Not CONDEMNING. Do I NOT have a right to be sad over wrong doing?
My heart aches... is this wrong?

I can SEE when there is sin and wrong doing... can you call someone who has been stabbed in the back the victim? The one who 'has a certain perspective and doesn't know the whole story'?

I am praying... praying over and over again for love, hope, comfort.
Forgive me if I am being selfish for praying for the comfort first.

This is not a rant for me to get attention... it simply helps to 'get it out'

praying that God would lead me to the 'side of still waters'... where His grace and love and purity may pour over all of me.
Not so much for me... but for those I am affecting. I do not wish to bring you down... but to point you to Christ. Please pray that I would be restored... healed... so that instead of burdening you I may help you.

2008-12-09T09:17:00.002-05:00

OOOO
wow. Its 9:15ish I am still in 'bed' (i have been sleeping in the library on the futon mattress).
Dem and I watched "return to me" last night. CUTE movie! =D. Definitely almost cried a million times through it... and laughed a million times more. hahaha.

This weekend was fun. We went to sparkle... hahahaha the 'vamp' event... were dem still found a billion of wolves. lol.
It was sooo cold! o my gosh, but worth it cause I laughed a lot and got to go on my date with Kaela! =D.

Let me tell you about Kaela. :). (don't get mad at me girl).
Kaela is a girl who has been growing into you a young woman as of late. Her jokes are hilarious, her attitude to die for (ok... play on words a little bit :P). The hugs she gives are priceless. And quite frankly I just love being around her! (also she plays piano amazingly well!!! Trust me, I went to her recital and pretended i was sitting on the bench next to her).

So I got to walk down market street with her and neeki and anna and abram and dem and schwa. (also, Anna took a horrible pic of me!). *sticks out tongue*

I got funnel cake... MMM wonderful!

Afterwards jarred dem and I had to wait outside on the curb while schwa took the e kids home. It was creepy. Crows flew above our heads... like... hundreds of crows, landing in the trees surrounding us. Definitely creepy. But fun :).

Sunday... oo sunday. lol.
I got up and immediately went to find Orleans (the best dog on the earth!) and found her out on the couch and sat down to cuddle with her and read my Bible. After reading my Bible I began reading the book I am going through.

Discussion during fellowship later however was great...
worship was mindblowing.
Everything we sang and all the words of encouragement seemed to be directed at me.
Especially one my mum read and i still can remember what she said that struck me hardest and almost moved me to tears.
"Be at peace in the purity His love has given you"

how can I be condemned in that???

Afterwards we played football. lol. little to no injuries and it was fun!! =D.
Also I felt very... uncordinated which was very weird...
i fell off the piano bench (which has NEVER happened)
and i tripped going up the stairs.
Whatever is wrong with me needs to stop now. lol. i did not like it.

In any case. I need to get a headstart on today.

breathinf for the glory of God.

~del

2008-12-04T17:08:00.003-05:00

Life has it's ups and downs... all you gotta do is roll with the punches.

It's one of my 'sayings' and I say it a lot. Right now though it either seems like I'm rolling a lot, or forgetting to and ending up with bloody noises and black eyes.

I know for a fact that I have a faithful God... who is in perfect and absolute control over my life...
I know that He loves me... unconditionally...
However, I know when I'm struggling, and I am... I feel like God's placed me in the rapids before I was conditioned and trained to swim to shore.

I know I need to rest in His grace... which is my source of strength... and I know I am not. It hurts to say, but I am not.

There are days when I am tired, downcast and feeling void of any good that I have done...
and I realize now, as I always do, that it's because I am resting on my own strength, not God's.

I know what my desires are... even though I am continually running after different things...
My first and foremost desire is GOD
My second are the people I love. My family, my friends.
I wish to help them... to see them through life...

but I am very selfish and both of these desires are difficult to fulfill... and it seems as if I have not been to any extent at all in the past few weeks.

I struggle with letting people help me... not because I don't want it... but because I continually dwell on the idea that I don't deserve it... not that that's what matters... its not like I deserve God either, and most of the time I am more than willing to lean on Him and let Him help me... but not other people. Why? Perhaps because I don't realize that God is using them to reach out to me... maybe because I don't realize that it might bless them to help me rather than 'bog them down'. (Which is one of my greatest struggles... I am in a continual state of scrutinizing myself, making sure I don't... bother people... specifically people I love). I think it's wrong to do this... and I'm not sure what to do to right my attitude.

Again... I know that I must rest in His grace...
but sometimes I wish that there was less resting and more training... so that when life decides to throw a punch, I know how to defend myself.

I want to desire God more than anything
and to do what He wants no matter what I feel

but right now I would love to be irrevocably in love with my Savior and to wish only to do His bidding... instead of getting caught up in my own little scruples.

2008-11-19T15:40:00.003-05:00

Hi. I'm gonna try to get back to this world. I miss it. :)

Today has been a rough day... but God has decided to humble me by using words I have already spoken to speak to me. How amazing!

I was looking back on all that I had written on this blog (ok, so not everything :P I wrote a lot). And I was so encouraged to see all the ways He helped me to focus on Him throughout so many years of my life. :).

Psalm 25 has come back up in my life :). So its always been there, but hey :P. Its my favorite so there! lol.

25:1 To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.
2 O my God, in you I trust;
let me not be put to shame;
let not my enemies exult over me.
3 Indeed, none who wait for you shall be put to shame;
they shall be ashamed who are wantonly treacherous.

4 Make me to know your ways, O Lord;
teach me your paths.
5 Lead me in your truth and teach me,
for you are the God of my salvation;
for you I wait all the day long.

6 Remember your mercy, O Lord, and your steadfast love,
for they have been from of old.
7 Remember not the sins of my youth or my transgressions;
according to your steadfast love remember me,
for the sake of your goodness, O Lord!

8 Good and upright is the Lord;
therefore he instructs sinners in the way.
9 He leads the humble in what is right,
and teaches the humble his way.
10 All the paths of the Lord are steadfast love and faithfulness,
for those who keep his covenant and his testimonies.

11 For your name's sake, O Lord,
pardon my guilt, for it is great.
12 Who is the man who fears the Lord?
Him will he instruct in the way that he should choose.
13 His soul shall abide in well-being,
and his offspring shall inherit the land.
14 The friendship [2] of the Lord is for those who fear him,
and he makes known to them his covenant.
15 My eyes are ever toward the Lord,
for he will pluck my feet out of the net.

16 Turn to me and be gracious to me,
for I am lonely and afflicted.
17 The troubles of my heart are enlarged;
bring me out of my distresses.
18 Consider my affliction and my trouble,
and forgive all my sins.

19 Consider how many are my foes,
and with what violent hatred they hate me.
20 Oh, guard my soul, and deliver me!
Let me not be put to shame, for I take refuge in you.
21 May integrity and uprightness preserve me,
for I wait for you.

22 Redeem Israel, O God,
out of all his troubles.

My prayer is that I would be continually reminded of His sovereignty over my life and everyone's around me! That I am to rest and act in His grace and sovereignty... given to me by His love!

How I LOVE MY GOD.

Now i need to find all you people that still live here...
PS. Hoser is still one of my favorite words... lol.

2008-05-24T00:08:00.001-04:00

Hi everyone
pretty much
I have a facebook
and its easier... lol. :)

2008-01-06T21:18:00.001-05:00

ahahahaha.
Mattea
don't bet that I haven't updated kk?
hey yall
once again its been a while. Does anyone here have a facebook?

So yes. To answer Damaris. I would love to e-mail you...and i believe i have your e-mail. i shall have to check!
and two. Courtney and Damaris I am desiring to go to NA... I still have to talk to daddy about it. =D!
and...if you have anything you desperatly need to tell me...via blog would not be very quick. sorry yall!
So yes...
life goes on! God is amazing!
and hopefully I talk to everyone sometime!
love yall
~del

2007-11-10T21:33:00.001-05:00

I
am
alive
hahaha
sorry my blog world!

Its been a long time

and a lot has happened.......
: ).
how is everyone?

2007-06-18T13:08:00.000-04:00

Competition and makeup?

So................. Jarred and dad played tennis on Sunday. In the best possible light for Jarred, he got crushed. So, as we pass by the tennis courts today after church, Jarred (who is still very sore about this, and who wants to beat dad at least once) starts going on and on about how there's going to be a rematch. I don't understand why Jarred MUST do this. Like, why does he HAVE to? I mean, literally. So I ask him in my confusion why it is so, that boys have this innate sense that they have to win. Jarred doesn't know why, he just says that that's the way it is.

"I mean, I don't understand why girls have to put on makeup. I mean, they sit there in front of a mirror 'oohh, I need some blush here... oh and a little bit there...' we don't understand that either."

"We don't understand it, but we appreciate it." dad.

hahahahahaha.

nice.
end of story.
Thanks and God bless
please leave comments!
~dell

2007-06-11T14:00:00.000-04:00

HOW TO MAKE A FIRE!!!

The boys were blasting their crazy music in the garage. I run over to Rachael, Anna (R) close behind.

"We should make a fire!" Dell does huge hand motions to make her point. Rachael's eyes get real big and Anna (R) nods.

"YES!" Rachael said smiling big and cheesy like. Off the three of us run to start a fire. *A campfire*. We get there and there are some pine branches in the fire pit and a lot of dried grass. Dell instinctively grabs... two sticks, that are green. We want a fire, so how do we get it? Duh, rub sticks together! So I did it!

http://video.xanga.com/striderguy/e8414368221/video.html

Then... Anna (R) will have the picture of the fire after I... um... well, after the fire got started! =D. hehehehehe.

So, we had a blast. We played Frisbee. Had a great time of worship and reflection. I still can remember when I heard about Emma and totally not understanding why God would let this happen. That was my deal. I didn't understand... I couldn't. I questioned God in His sovereignty. How good God is though, that even in my sinful distrust He worked this out in His perfect plan! Everything was taken care of! It was amazing remembering His faithfulness!

Then we played some more Frisbee... that was a good game! Then, the guys jammed. Abe played a marvelous song! I wish that I could go more indepth with how God moved me during those few moments, but I will say this, it was amazing to see how God gave someone such an amazing gift, and that God's grace has made his heart want to use that gift to glorify God!

Then campfire ^. And then go-cart with Brooke... allergies... basketball... lots of fun!!!!
Anyway, comments are appreciated! =D

~dell

2007-06-06T00:44:00.000-04:00

How does one cut themselves on a toaster?

Um... for 1. If they are named Del,
2. If they are a girl
3. They are blonde
4. If they have a record for getting hurt for the most random reasons
5. Four was enough.
and I fall under all of those catagories.

At work today, I cut myself on the toaster... don't ask, I still don't know how its possible. Lauren got a kick out of it. As she did with a bunch of other things I did. She and Mike are the only ones (from work) that truly know how blonde I am, the plan is to keep it that way =D. hahahahaa. Oh well, we have blast.

So yeah, officially, I like Runaway Bride. I'm wearing a silk dress to Jess's wedding. I need work shoes. My hair is a poofy mess :(. My shoulders ache. I need to learn how to cook. Adam wants me to listen to some British band. I need a new Bible... as much as I hate to say that... I love my Bible. I've marked up so much stuff, and I know exactly how everything in it is. *sniff*.

Um... I have an update.

~dell

2007-06-04T13:33:00.000-04:00

Are You My Brother?

Ok, so I've been reading a book that I thought I never would (Did I Kiss Marriage Goodbye?) and now I am. hehehe. But the book isn't about those who have given up marriage (something I have not done), but rather, how to use our single years as women as a gift from God and growing in our feminity!!! Well, I read a chapter last night on how to treat Brothers (it was a small portion) so afterwards I wrote up this. Tell me what you think! (Guys, if there's anything else you see that could be added, please say so!).

There's just one way we as women are to treat believing single men: As Brothers!
With this in mind, I'm not just talking about guys who you struggle with treating as Brothers, but for ALL the guys in your life. Young guys, old guys in between guys... all are to know us as Sisters... and they are to feel like Brothers! But in what ways can we treat them as Brothers?

Pray: By praying for guys as brothers, we put our heart in the right posture about them before God. In this way, we serve them as we pray for their needs as well as thanking God for them and their friendship! Plus, guys need the prayer =D. (And I would also to encourage you to first pray for your real brothers if you have any, and your father, then not just the guys you may 'like' but every guy! This helps, I believe, in treating them all the same).

Encourage: Encouraging guys is a simple way of saying "God's growing you, and I have noticed!" It gives God glory as well as guys energy and desire to keep going! We ought to be looking for evidences of grace and applauding the work of God in the lives of our Brothers around us. With this in mind, we have to be looking for ways to encourage guys... we must be intentional about noticing and being aware of the positive that guys do (don't get stuck on the disgusting things they do).

Pursue girl friendships: I hear you, "Dell, what does this have to do with treating guys as Brothers?" Well, it has a lot to do with it =D. Guys don't need us to be their main friends, and we don't need to have guys as our main friends. We need to be friends! YES! My point is this, we can't grow in the same ways that we must when our main friendships are with guys (I know this from experience). I know its often harder to have closer friendships with girls, but its neccesary!! For us girls and for the guys! Guys need us to be growing... and we girls will do that a lot more in girl friendships. We can grow in a much deeper friendship since we are not having to worry about guarding our hearts and guys hearts in the 'anything more than friendship' way. . And we can grow much more since as girls we struggle with the same things; we can see sin issues that guys can't in each others lives, and we can bring it to each others attention and help each other grow in a way that guys just can't.

Help them mature in Biblical Manliness: This can be played out in several ways as we seek to grow them into leaders. 1. Let guys take initiative - conversations, friendships, planning things... the list goes on. A guy is called to be the leader, but if we're filling up that role then where is he going to step in? 2. Serve them: Making food - hahahaha- guys love this, my brothers give me 'extra points' for this. Guys can see a cheerful effort you put out for them and they are grateful! Serve guys by cheerfully following their leadership - whether in a game of Frisbee - or where the group goes for dinner - or the topic of the conversations (assuming it is edifying). Guys won't lead if girls won't follow cheerfully! Who wants to lead a bunch of whiny girls anyway?

Be Friendly: Don't be someone hard to become friends with. Guys like to be around happy friends - guys or girls. Don't be fake - shallow or cold (cough... unless dad says... cough). But really, if we want to pray, encourage and serve guys, the first step is to be their friends eh?
Be Honest: A guy can't serve, lead or be friends with someone who isn't real with him. So, you're having a bad day, then one of your guy friends comes up "Hey ____(insert name here)! How's your day been?" "Actually, its been pretty rough, actually, I could use some prayer." Not to hard huh? Hmm... I struggle with this a lot. Guys don't like us having fake smiles and not letting them help... whether its when you can't open a jar, or you can't walk cause of high heels. (Now granted, we as girls must be careful that that we don't jepordize our emotional purity with what we share with him, for both us and him! There's a difference between being honest and seeking wrong attention.)

Seek to point them to the cross: As Sisters, the best way we can serve is to CONTINUALLY, (by our actions and words) be pointing guys to our Savior! In the way we act around them, talk to them and treat them, lets have it be our goal that they come away feeling closer to God, not closer to us.

We are Sisters, as Sisters we love them like Brothers. Let our goal be to point them to the cross!!!!!

~DON'T MISS THE NEXT EXCITING EPISODE~
"Are You My Sister?"
=D.

PART 2!!!

Girls need guys. Girls need guys to do a bunch of things for them too; from opening jars, doors or leading us towards Christ. But everything you do will fall under the special role of brotherhood. What does this look like in a nutshell?

Pray: Give us to God! This is something that says to God "I really do care for her as my sister" plus, all of us agree, we need all the prayer we can get!

Encourage: Often (sadly) it is hard for girls to keep on after godliness and feminity. We need God's strength, but also being encouraged is such a major blessing and often motivates us to keep going. Simple ways to encourage girls would be (as long as its truthful!) is: Her modesty - its so hard in our culture to keep our style covering most of our skin - and after a week of hopeless or depressing shopping, its so nice to hear that our efforts aren't meaningless! Another thing would be our serving, especially when you see someone serving with joy! Whether its making your food or watching little kids or serving in church! And another simple thing that is so encouraing is when you mention our love for Christ! Nothing can please us more than others seeing how absolutely we love our Savior! TO know that our hearts of love towards Christ are affecting others in a positive way is amazingly encouraing! (PS. Many other ways to encourage to... be creative. lol).

Help us grow in Biblical Feminity: That does not include yelling "Submit woman!" (although in the right context, this is humorous). This would simply mean you stepping in your role of leadership so that we may fill the role of submissive follower. Btw - we really enjoy guys taking initiative in leading! No matter if they are younger or the same age as us! Its so hard to let guys do stuff for us sometimes, but the more you do it, the easier it is for us to thank you and realize that this is a way of serving you (by letting you do things... that still confuses me). So make it a habit to be a Gentleman! And quite frankly, you'll see a lot more ladies!

Be A Gentleman: (!) Noble, knightly, caring, strong, protective, godly! This is such a big thing for a guy to do, but you have no idea how much it serves us as sisters as well as glorifies God! I notice when anyone hold a door open for me - from my 9 year old brother, to my brothers in Christ, to a random guy at the mall. I am so thankful that even in our culture there are still guys who are courteous and caring! I can't help but wish guys still stood up when a girl came and offered her their chair like the olden days. When my brother gives me his seat I see someone who is seeking to serve others more than himself, and to glorify God! Yes, the list for being a gentleman is long - but possible! I've seen it (no, in real life, not just Pride and Prejudice). Being a Gentleman requires guys to be able to see needs then fill them. It requires guys seeking to serve (in-paticular) ladies with utmost care and respect... to cherish us! And I'd like to say this... you aren't going to be able to be a Gentleman to us when you can't be one to your mom.

Point us to the Cross: (!!!). Now this is what we truly hope for in a brother sister relationship! Be on fire for God, have conversations that are edifying and God glorifying! Worship God, read His word. Have it be your goal that after every time we see you we feel closer to the cross!

With this said, I hope that you are encouraged (since I think most of the guys who will read this are already on their way to being a great Brother if they aren't already!!). I'd like to have a special shout out to my 'little brothers' Jarred, Ben, Daniel and Jordan! I am so blessed to be able to have your example of what a Gentleman truly looks like, and yes, a lot of these practical ways of being a Brother I derived from your examples!!! Thank you so much! I pray that you all would be growing in these ways (and the other ways I didn't mention. lol).

Thanks and God bless!
~dell

2007-05-28T19:08:00.000-04:00

I AM SO SORRY THAT ITS BEEN MORE THAN A MONTH!

hahahahahaha. And I"m sure no one is gonna look at this now. lol.

Nothing much is going on... my brother just turned 3... :-O I know. hahahahahaha.

God has been good! He is continually growing me even though its hard... I've really been strugglign with the fact that I wasn't able to go to NA this year, but I am learning to be content with where God has me.

So, how's everyone else been doing? Let me know!! =D.

~dell

2007-04-25T11:54:00.001-04:00

News...
Dell grabs a tissue... *sniff*, Daniel... *sniff* Daniel is turning 15!! When and how did that happen?!?!?! Dell wipes away another tear. Just the other day he was... teasing me along with Jarred...? Okay then, now I'm kinda glad he's turning a bit older, hahaaha. Soon to be Happy Birthday Daniel! (Oh, and btw people, he still makes fun of me... along with Jarred... and all my 'younger brothers' aka Jordan, Ben, Daniel, Jarred - 'older brothers' Stephen Steven Drew and PJ can fit in that to, haha. and even some of the girls tease, *cough* ANNA *cough* lol. It's my lot in life).

I am getting my hair cut today... Dell gets a look of panic over her face... Oh my gosh, I'm getting my hair cut today. I'm trying not to back out of it. No, I really want to do this, and I shall! Deep breaths... inhale... exhale... okay, I think I'll make it.

For the first time yesterday I did something different to my hair... but not hardly doing anything to it yesterday (it was curly...and poofy... Dell gets a sad look on her face... and she got made fun of for it..). It was okay when I had it up in a cute curly bun on my head... but when I took it down after work it was pretty wild.

Yesterday at work, Mike swept the upstairs and steps and mopped. =D thanks Mike, and he showed me the roof (which I really wanted to go out on... but didn't) and showed me the random door that goes out into the air above the drive through, that was scary. And he showed me where he spies on everyone. Then I found out he was in my brothers gym class. lol.

I worked with Mel yesterday for the first time, so that was fun! She was really paitent for my stupidity... especially about straws. hahahahahaha. Sorry, but that story is not one I am willing to share (and don't get to excited about it, it's not that big of a deal.).

And guess what... you'll actually never believe me, unless you see it for yourself... Corey actually updated his xanga... is that a look of shock I see? I don't have to ask, it is. hahahaha.
Well, if anyone wants a piece of my soon to be cut hair, they'd better say somethign quick. lol.
Leave a comment, make my day.

tah tah

Dell

PS. ARBY'S HAS IT'S FIVE FOR 5.99 DEAL BACK!!! Anybody want to go to Arbys?

I'm adding a song... I've posted it before... but I really like it. =D

Baby Girl Please Stay Three

Daddy and I dancing on the floor
He twirls me around and around once more
I promise him I won’t turn four
“I’ll stay three daddy, I assure you!”
Yet I could tell that you weren’t so sure

“Baby girl please stay three baby please stay three”
“But daddy I’m not sure if that’s for me.
What about sixteen and getting married?”
“Baby girl that’s why! Please stay three”
I love my daddy, but I know he loves me more
Because he was still there the day I turned four

“My baby girl is driving today” my daddy says
Horrified with this new phase
“You were supposed to stay three”
“I’m sorry daddy really!
But that wasn’t going to happen with me”

“Baby girl please stay three baby please stay three”
“But daddy I’m not sure if that’s for me.
What about sixteen and getting married?”
“Baby girl that’s why! Please stay three”
I love my daddy, but I know he loves me more
Because he was still there the day I turned four

Late nights talking on his lap
So many memories and so many laughs
We talked a lot about life and guys I liked
“Daddy you were always closest to me in reality!
But daddy here comes a guy I really like, but first, would you agree?”

“Baby girl please stay three baby please stay three”
“But daddy I’m not sure if that’s for me.
What about sixteen and getting married?”
“Baby girl that’s why! Please stay three”
I love my daddy, but I know he loves me more
Because he was still there the day I turned four

Daddy and I dancing on the floor
He twirls me around and around once more
“You promised me you wouldn’t turn four
Now my baby girl is all married”
“Oh daddy please understand
I loved you first and always have!”

“Your baby girl couldn’t stay three daddy
It just wasn’t for me
I’m passed sixteen and already married
I know why you wanted me to stay three
But I love you daddy and always will
Because you have always been there for me”

I love my daddy but I know he loves me more
Because he was still there the day I turned four

~I love my dad!~
~dell~

2007-04-09T14:58:00.000-04:00

Jess and Jesse are engaged!
C

PJ and Emily are courting!
O

Nicole is pregnant!
M

And I had an interview with Heavenly Cup on Friday and I think I got the job! (I'll find out either today, tomorrow, or the next tomorrow) =D.
M

The snow is gone... but yesterday, it was here. I wore a white dress to church for Easter (it was one I bought last year that was pretty expesive, but I fell in love with it). That was the first time I wore a dress to church in ages! Literally years. Got a couple of compliments, I just wished I had white flowers up in my hair, hahahaha.
E

Well, we were going to have Easter dinner at my nana and papa's but some of the kids were sorta sick, and I had this terrible headache (don't ask me were it came from, but I haven't had a headache like that in a long time). So I took a long nap, then we stayed up late, then I went to bed. =D.
N

I'm hoping it goes back up to like 70 this week, how nice would that be! Football, basketball, frisbee!! Ooohhh.
T

Well, I hope your breath doesn't smell as bad as mine!
~dell

2007-03-30T06:28:00.000-04:00

Prayer meeting

School

Chill out

Volleyball

Sleep

Volleyball

Lacrosse

Hanging out

Sleep

Church

Hanging out

Sleep.

That's what the rest of my week looks like =D.

>good times. This ones one of my favorites. SO this post can now be concluded because one picture equals a thousand words. =D.

tah tah!

~dell

2007-03-27T22:25:00.000-04:00

"A new post...?"
Dell looks about her in strange wonder as she contemplates on those three words that jump out at her on the screne
"a new post..." she says again, just this time with more firmness and boldness
"YES, I shall do it!" She cries. Then sits, staring, wondering what she shall write.
"Aw, yes, first, an explanation to the lack of posts, and an apology"

Yes, I have been incredibly busy, I was gone most of last week, and before that I was sick, and volleyball and school are pretty much taking over my life... AAHH!
However, God has been so GOOD! I went to the Reading PA church and heard a message from C.B. Eder and everything hit home.
You see, I've been praying for a renewed passion for the Gospel. That my life would be shaped and formed by the Gospel and Christ! We walked into the school where they meet to hear a beautiful worship set of completely Gospel centered music and worship which was fantastic! Whitney shared a word that spoke to at least me in a huge way, and then C.B's message was exactly what I had been praying for. God moved me, convicted me, and brought me into His presence telling me what needed to be changed in my life so that I could have a passion for Him, firstly, to have a humble and contrite spirit, espeically shown in repentance, so that I could truly own my sin and see my absolute need for a Savior, and then be sooo thankful for the amazing fact that I have Him!!

God is good... His word is sufficent, and He loves me.

And my team won in v.ball today, which is exciting... and a ton of fun!!
I guess that's it!
God bless!
~dell

2007-03-01T19:39:00.000-05:00

I was driving today... not a big thing... not to different. But, as I was driving, I see a car to my right waiting to take a turn, if they go now I'll be pretty mad cause they'll be cutting right in front of me (when they should wait!). But they did. I was pretty mad. I beeped at them (the first time I ever beeped at anyone in the car other then friends). As I'm following this driver I see on the back of the car a big sticker something with what... what could it be... A CANADIAN FLAG! Hoser!

That is the story for today...
The next question is "Is anybody thinking about going to Clash? A conference for 17-20 year olds, check it out on Sovereign Graces' site"

Other than that nothing much.
I've got to go vacuum. Yay.

~dell

2007-02-19T20:16:00.000-05:00

Hello....
I am SORRY!
I know I'm a hoser for not posting
I guess I will just post about what God has been doing in my life.
"I will lift up my soul" Psalm 25

What does that mean?
It means giving GOD ALL OF ME.
My desires
My wants
My heart
My all

"In Him I find all joy!"
If I can't give Him all my soul... how will I find all joy?

"Why do you labor for that which does not satisfy?" Isaiah 51 (?)
What do I labor for?
What do I seek that does not satisfy?
Wordly desires

I NEED TO COPMLETELY FOCUS ON GOD
HE IS MY AUDIENCE OF ONE

and here is a song... doesn't really go along, but it's something more!
Have a great one guys!
~dell

Here Is My Life
In my car on the road again
My head is spinning
Hoping that this isn’t a dead end
But once again my trust is slipping
Gas pedal on the floor as I take the next bend
Suddenly I’m skidding
My life flashes before me… am I dead?
My soul starts screaming
Just give me one more chance!!

Life never seems so sweet
Till it’s almost taken away from you
Death never seems such a defeat
Till it’s all you have left to do
You can’t go back and press delete
On all those mistakes that you knew
Would be right there with you
What you gonna do…
With this new concept in view?

In my new car on the highway
I am blinded my tears
Hoping they go away
But once again the aching draws near
Break on the floor the car begins to sway
Suddenly I hear
Sirens on their way
Am I really here?
My soul begins to pray“Father please be near!”

Life never seems so sweet
Till it’s almost taken away from you
Death never seems such a defeat
Till it’s all you have left to do
You can’t go back and press delete
On all those mistakes that you knew
Would be right there with you
What you gonna do…
With this new concept in view?

Here is my life
Here is my heart
Here’s what’s been going on deep down inside
You’ve given me a new start
So here is my life

2007-02-06T13:43:00.000-05:00

This is the year of Torn Jeans and Hats.

I have already ruined two of my FAVORITE jeans because I ripped them severely! . And I bought a hat that says 'vote for me, bro'
With that said... our mime presentation went fantastically well!! Props to all of you kids!!! =D. Rock on!

IT'S REALLY COLD!!!! AAAHHH... I feel like I'm freezing to death. Yesterday when I was doing science, I could see my fingers turning blue, how creepy is that??? And my lost slippers have been found... in the Rawleigh's van?? Ok.

Well, I've been working alot on my book... trying to come up with new ideas, it's been a little frusterating though lately.

Also... I have suceeded so far in NOT slipping on the ice which is blanketed across our driveway and walkway to the driveway. I'm rather excited that I haven't fallen... knowing my record it's a little surprising, lol.

And... to make this a semi interesting post. If you are a girl please post what your favorite flower is, and if you are a guy please post what you're favorite meal is. (you can do both, lol, I'm actually more interested in the flowers).

My favorite flowers are orange lilies. Favorite meal... pizza. without a doubt.

~dell

PS. btw. Life's been pretty cool. "pun" hahahaha.

2007-01-31T22:42:00.000-05:00

You know, when you think about life, particularly your past and future you think about what you could have done, or what you should have done, or about what you want to do, the goals for your life. I do that all the time. When I think about my past and check this, I'm usually bummed out! Bummed out that I didn't do what I wanted to do... that whatever I did seemingly didn't esteem to much for my present. The future... oh what glorious things I shall do in the future! Surprisingly enough, this thought process started with me wanting to take ballet, your surprised, haha, well I took ballet as a kid. I could have kept going, I could have done well, but now, for my present, I don't know anything about it. Now I look to the future... I want to take ballet, wouldn't it be cool to be proficant at it? Yes! To be good at something... to be great at something! But, for my past... the future is now! Have a used my past for the now I am living in? It would seem that that is not the case! What now? Exactly! WHAT NOW?!?!?!?! Don't spend today away, cause today will soon be gone!

What now?

You got things for your future... well... whats keeping them in the future? Today will soon be your past as will your future. You got to make them come together and work for you now.
What's keeping you back?

Those things in the future... maybe they ought to be worked into todays schedule. Maybe not... but maybe... maybe!

"You desire to play, yet you don't try?"
I watched the kids play hackie sack. Why was I jealous?? Stupid. Envy is for people who don't want to be who they are.

Yeah, me. I knew a lot about a lot of little things, but nothing big... nothing spectacular. I could do a lot of small things... but I had never been great at anything.

"Yo, want to join in Callie?" I turned to Justin who was beckoning me to come play.
"No thanks man. You don't want me in there, I stink." I replied with a sarcastic laugh. It hurt my heart to say it.

Justin walked over to sit next to me on the picnic bench leaving his fellow players behind. Justin was younger than me by about two years, but a much more maturer Christian, and seemingly older most of the time. I envied him about that... GOSH, there I went again!

"You know Callie, I see you sit here everyday watching us. You're our most attentive audience."
"That's only cause the rest of your audience is now on stage." I replied. Justin nodded agreeingly.

"Yeah. Though, all of them were really really bad when they first started. Even me." Justin said rubbing his neck.

"Justin, why are we talking about hackie sack? It's a little." I searched for the right word. "Meaningless."

"Learning Hackie sac is a pretty meaningless thing, yeah, I hear ya there. But check up on this. Have you ever tried learning hackie sac?" I turned away from his question.

"You desire to play yet you don't try?" I turned away again. Justin sighed and stood up.
"Hackie sac is a small thing, but what worries me is not that you don't play it, but that you want to and havne't done anything about it, instead you just watch us." Justin said, he let his words sink in. "Think fast Callie." He threw a hackie sac to me and with a wink walked back to his buddies.

I practiced for months to learn hackie sac... I wasn't great, but I was good. But, I was never trying to become great at hackie sac. I simply knew that if I ever wanted to do anything, even if it was something as meaningless as hackie sac, I had to take the moment, I had to work hard, and if I put enough effort into it, I would be good... possibly even great.

I returned the hackie sac to Justin, but always I remembered his startling questions. "You desire to play, yet you don't try?"

That cut me deep and I never forgot it.

2007-01-26T08:42:00.000-05:00

If you read this,

even if we don't speak often,

please post a comment with a memory of you and me.I

t can be anything you want,good or bad.

When you're finished,post this little paragraph on your blog and be surprised or mortifiedby what people remember about you.

For you canadians that might not work so well... hahahaha, just make up something!

I have been thinking a lot about being content. I know when I think about it I often think of sitting back, watching the world swirl around and being okay and cool with everything. The other day I was reading 1 Timothy and stumbled across the verse 'Now much godliness is attained through contedness' (6:6...give or take a few words). Since I read that I've been thinking alot about it, and this morning during prayer meeting I think I had revelation. Being content means to realize that you are where you are for a reason; we are to make the most of whatever time we have and whatever situation we are in. We need to have the mentality of "I am here, now what should I do? _________(something that glorifies God) NOW GO DO IT!" Content doesn't mean not doing anything and laying back... it means making the most of what we have right now! And being okay with what situation or season of life we're in cause God has us there for a reason!

But anyway, we had MIME practice last night with Silent Cry, and my group Crossfire is amazing!!!!!! Tai, Anna, Daniel, Jordan, Joy... you guys rock!!
And now for breakfast!! .

Your Sister in Christ

Delian

2007-01-22T13:23:00.000-05:00

So, I went to the wedding... it was a lot of fun! We didn't bring the camera (we were literally running out the door, hehehe). So, I'm sorry, but no pictures, lol. During the reception Shelsy's dad danced with her and they did this song about how 'he was hers first'... I almost cried. That's going to be the hardest thing about my wedding... when dad walks me down the aisle... when he dances with me... and when he sings butterfly kisses... lol. I'm gonna bawl. I remember when I heard that song for the first time... I was like 10, and I didn't ever cry then (tough girl, lol) and I pretty much was trying with all my might not to. It kills me every time I hear it... :'(. I love my daddy!! Well here's a song about 'me and daddy' let me know what you think!! For you girls... don't cry. . hehehehehe

Baby Girl Please Stay Three

Daddy and I dancing on the floor
He twirls me around and around once more
I promise him I won’t turn four
“I’ll stay three daddy, I assure you!”
Yet I could tell that you weren’t so sure

“Baby girl please stay three baby please stay three”
“But daddy I’m not sure if that’s for me.
What about sixteen and getting married?”
“Baby girl that’s why! Please stay three”
I love my daddy, but I know he loves me more
Because he was still there the day I turned four

“My baby girl is driving today” my daddy says
Horrified with this new phase
“You were supposed to stay three”
“I’m sorry daddy really!
But that wasn’t going to happen with me”

Late nights talking on his lap
So many memories and so many laughs
We talked a lot about life and guys I liked
“Daddy you were always closest to me in reality!
But daddy here comes a guy I really like, but first, would you agree?”

Daddy and I dancing on the floor
He twirls me around and around once more
“You promised me you wouldn’t turn four
Now my baby girl is all married”
“Oh daddy please understand
I loved you first and always have!”

“Your baby girl couldn’t stay three daddy
It just wasn’t for me
I’m passed sixteen and already married
I know why you wanted me to stay three
But I love you daddy and always will
Because you have always been there for me”

I love my daddy but I know he loves me more
Because he was still there the day I turned four

~I love my dad!~
~dell~

2007-01-13T18:28:00.000-05:00

I am blonde
Demory Anna and I went up to get our hair done (not Anna... she came along for the ride... and to clean up after Dem... hehehe). Demory's looks really nice, I like mine... I like blonde... the hair color that is. mhmm.

So, a prayer request for Mrs. Efthimiou!! Thursday she was at the bank and while she was getting up from the desk she jammed her knee into the side of the desk, after being in incredible pain and such she isn't supposed to be walking around to much. The guys are gone at the conference and such and she's having to watch the kids (with the major help of Anna and Mikaela!!). However, if you guys could just pray that God would see fit to heal her so that she could walk and not feel pain and therefore just make this time easier!

And I love God for friends!!! Last night I totally chilled with Nicole for hours... (well I spent the night). And I realized, 'oh, there are so many things He has shown me through just one friend... one. And yet He has blessed me with many! How amazing is that?!?! So, to all of you friends out there... thanks! I love yall!

Each day I am amazed at God's work and love! Each day I fail in sooo many ways, and yet He speaks to me... and allows me to understand what I must do (err... confess) and lovingly helps me to do so! Each day I breathe, it's such a glorious thing to do and I love to do it! I love to think about it! Oh... and I think of how He's grown me the past year!!! I am so sinful... I fall so short each and every day... I am so guilty. Yet, He is perfect... He lifts me up and forgives me... and not only that but walks by my everyday! Every second He's there, He's here now. I can't describe this sence I have... He is here.

2007-01-10T10:19:00.000-05:00

Thoughts from this morning

There's a snow dusting all over... more like frost that's a little bit whiter and is on the driveway as well. It's pretty... but cold too. I need to find my slippers .

I'm looking forward to what God is going to do this year and how He's going to grow me and my family! And I am soo thankful for the already evidences of grace He has shown us in our lives! Our God is good! I think this year God is going to grow me a lot in trust... He'll have to or I'll have a rough time I'm sure! And our God is faithful... so I'm pretty sure He'll be kind and grow me in trust (doesn't mean all at once... but over time and circumstances).

"In the path of Your judgments, O LORD we wait for You. Your name and rememberance are the desire of our soul."

I always thought of the word 'judgments' as 'YOU ARE NOW BEING JUDGED... THIS IS WHAT YOU HAVE DONE THIS IS WHAT YOU DESERVE'. Yet, when I hear and use the word 'judgments' it is more used for: 'What would be your judgment in this area? Do you think we should do this or that?' More of 'what we should do in the next step of our lives?' So as I was thinking about that this morning my thoughts were this

"I will wait for You in the path of Your judgments. I will walk the path of your decisions. I WILL TRUST YOU for what You will do on the path I walk... on that path my soul will desire Your name and rememberance!"

God was good and told me this from Pslams

"The works of His hand are faithful and just; all His precepts are trustworthy"
So... I guess I'd better trust in Him eh?

~dell

(I'm trusting God that the Eagles are going all the way hahahahaha).

2007-01-01T22:11:00.000-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

Totally had a blast... except for the fact I was sick on Sat. blah!!! Anyway, I survived, and got to go to a party The Efthimiou's got a go-cart... LOADS OF FUN!!! Completely shweet! .

I am really happy that it's a new year... I pray much better then the last! And even though this past year has been filled with many exciting times and memorable moments... it was a hard year for me... the hardest year of my (rather short) life. You know when you have a huge regret and then for every first time of something you do afterwards you think 'oh, this is the first time this has happened since that happened' this was my first New Year for me. I'm glad. Actually thankful. I can see how far God's brought me and give thanks to Him for sooo many things!!! For how much He has done in my life! . I really am happy for a new year... almost like a new start!

Well, the party was a lot of fun. We did a lot of different stuff, like drink sparkling grape juice a bottle at a time. lol. Here's some pictures... the second one I look like a little girl, hahaha. Tai looks marvelous though! Well, today I actually just chilled out. What about yall?
Well, your comments are appreciated! Have a great new start!

^me looking like a little girl

quote off the top of my mind.

"I'll have no trouble replacing you, I'll just go down to the nearest zoo... that's what I'd do without you that's what I'd do"

not really... but it's a funny song!

~dell

2006-12-28T15:32:00.000-05:00

Focus...
Pray pray pray pray... that I get a job at Heavenly Cup!! And then maybe I'd get to visit all you people I say I'll visit but haven't yet (*cough*, Caitlyn, Liz, Bethie... Abbie! Cherry Hill, Philly maybe even Canadians (Dams, you can join me ... and anybody else!). Actually... I'd like to get the job anyway! It's such a nice place! I really do like it!

I was talking to PJ a week or two ago, and we were talking about how we're supposed to have our thoughts always directed to God... He should be on the forefront of our mind... yet, we find it so hard just to give Him a section of our day for devotions! Such a big thing that we fall so short of! And I realized... I can't do it... no... I've tried, but right when my 'perfect' schedule changes (due to business or vacation) it falls apart. This past week we've had vacation, which I've been incredibly thankful for... but at the same time, my sin has been much more evident in my life (as in... not struggling against it... and not seeing it until after I do it). And much of that is due to the fact that I have not been spending time with God my Father, Savior and friend! What a small thing... something that usually only affects me... but boy, it sure does affect me... and in a huge way! So, I guess this is a prayer request and an encouragment... please pray that I would be seeking God out and praying that He draws me out. But also, for all of you that read this, we need to focus on God. And I don't know if I'm the only one that gets this feeling, but when I'm thinking about thinking about God, I often don't want to, but when I do... it's some of the most memorable times of my life! Let's focus on God!

~dell~

Stellar Kart

Sometimes all I try to do
Is maybe sleep til noon
And now I’m thinking
Less is more more
Will I ever get out,
Out the door
What’s the point anyway
Another meaningless day
Is there any reason
Why I shouldn’t waste
All my time
I need a change of scenery
Unlock the door and
Set me free

[chorus]
I wanna live like today
Could be my last day
To give all I have
Before it’s too late
Goodbye to all the
Fear and doubt ‘cause this
Love is what life is all about

Sometimes I lie awake at night
Playing back my whole life
If the way I see this world
Could change
All the differences would fade
I’m gonna play it out again
When I hear your voice
I’ll take your hand
I’ll try to change what I’ve become
And love like Jesus does

2006-12-22T08:13:00.000-05:00

So, the last post was one of the only short stories I've ever written and it's about Christmas, feel free to read it... but don't feel preassured... it's still rather long!!!

So, life is going... hahaha... this week has been incredibly busy... a shout out to PJ who pretty much saved it though by staying around and helping (even though it was his break!). Thanks bro. People in my family are finally well... or at least better And so life shall go on as it did before... rather hectic I'm sure.

Last night was caregroup and we played white elephant. It went from oldest to youngest (meaning I was one of the last to go... lol). And I couldn't believe it, there are 4 17 year olds in our group... and I am 16, so I was behind all of them. Well, I got this fantastic thing of chocolate, then Jarred devised a plan because Sherman got this huge box filled with mountain dew and Jarred quiet frankly wanted it. So... he devsied a plan... which almost got destroyed by Bethany. Jarred stole the mountain dew from Sherman, Bethany stole it from Jarred, Sherman got the sparkling grape juice while Mel got the chocolate (which Jarred had and promised me... 'but we got the mountain dew' he said). Then I got the mountain dew somehow... then Daniel got the sparkling grape juice because I said I would trade him some mountain dew for it. Sherman got some other chocolate, which I traded some mountain dew for. So in the end I got everything I wanted and some I know that didn't make sense, but please, just savor the moment with me.

I was a hoser this morning and slept in... after staying up till 12:30 (I meant to get up at 7, go hang out with Cassie, but by the time I woke up she was recording with PJ) and by the way Cass, thanks so much for the POUND OF CHOCOLATE... then the note saying to keep working out lol.

*Dell gasps* It's only five and it's sooo dark outside... what happened to today? "Who am I to spread my fingers after God has filled my hands Watching the moments slip through like desert sand?"

Breathe God each moment we live.

2006-12-22T08:12:00.000-05:00

Oh and Did You Know…

The clouds that day were extremely gray - or at least it seemed to be that way for a certain young man who was walking down the street, head bent over into the wind with his hands shoved into his pockets. There was only a few snowflakes falling and only a small layer of snow lay on the ground that would swoop and dance in the strong wind. Mostly it was ice, and that is what an Atlanta winter was, the wind is what made it miserable, it cut through every layer of clothing and somehow instead of getting duller it got sharper. Brandon ignored it; he ignored everything, his mission was to numb his mind so that the hurt that was inside would go away.

He knew he shouldn’t have done it… and every Christmas Eve it haunted him. No, he couldn’t undo it… he had run away from home, the only thing he had kept were the memories, the one thing he wished to be rid of. Two long years had passed since he had run away, four since the horrible accident.

Brandon kicked at a can on the sidewalk wishing to get the anger boiling up inside of him out somehow. Instead he ended up with a bruised toe…the can and the soda still in it was frozen solid. Brandon cursed under his breath as his toe which had been numb before now ached. He just wanted to be numb, to forget everything he had ever done and just to go on with life without having to think about all of his mistakes.

He kept walking to where he thought was nowhere, just putting one foot out in front of the other, but Someone was guiding him, even if he didn’t know it.

After several minutes of pointless wandering, Brandon found himself facing a small coffee shop. It was bright and cozy and the smell of coffee and baked cookies, cakes, and pies filled him to his toes. The bright light seemed to beckon him to come in and to get away from the horrors of the cold. He hesitated before entering, he wouldn’t fit in with such a cheery place, but the wind pushed him in as if he had no choice.

“Can I get you anything sir?” A young lady’s voice rang in his ears. He turned to see the question had been directed towards him. Her uncanny smile unnerved him, his clear grey eyes stunned her, but he collected his wits and nodded as he fished for his wallet. His eyes darted toward the menu on the wall as he walked up to the counter.

“Um yeah, can I just have some hot coca and a cinnamon bun?” He asked. The younger girl smiled and nodded as she turned around to get his order, but not before he read her name tag. Amber - pretty name. She was small, really almost petite but rather firm Brandon guessed. When she turned back around with his hot cocoa she set it on the counter and pulled out some whipped cream and swirled a little onto the hot beverage.

As she got the cinnamon bun onto a plate she asked, “would you like this heated up?” Brandon nodded.

“Yeah, sure, that would be nice.” Brandon replied. She quickly placed the roll in a microwave and set the timer. As soon as it was done she handed it to him with another smile.

“Is that all for today?” She asked sweetly. Brandon nodded and paid for the roll and beverage. After he turned around he eyed a small unoccupied table rather close to the door. He sat down, got comfortable and slowly began to sip his cocoa.

He had finished his cinnamon roll and was almost done with his hot chocolate when a young couple walked in the door, a cold gust of wind following them. They walked up to the counter, when Amber saw them instead of asking what they needed she exclaimed.

“Jayce! Kyle! I thought you guys were out of town, what are you doing here?” The two names pierced Brandon right through his heart, but his thoughts didn’t seem possible so he just watched.

The young girl, Jayce shook her head her beautiful voice turned on memories inside Brandon’s mind. “No, mom had another attack of that really bad cold so we decided to post pone the trip.” She was smiling but her eyes showed her disappointment.

“Oh, well I’ll keep praying for her, I do hope she gets better, but really I am glad you guys will be at the Christmas production tonight.” Amber replied with a soft smile, letting them know she was sympathetic. They chatted for a bit all the while Brandon grew more and more certain of who they were. Suddenly Amber asked.

“So, no word from Brandon huh?” Kyle shook his head forlornly while Jayce sighed. “Hey, cheer up guys, it’s Christmas Eve and you both don’t need to be depressed.” Kyle gave a lopsided smile and apologized.

“Sorry Amber, how ‘bout we get two vanilla lattes then we’ll wait around for half an hour so we can give you a ride after you’re done?” Amber’s laughter filled the room.

“Deal.” She said shaking Kyle’s hand. “Take a seat and I’ll bring it to you.” Kyle turned around looking for a table. Seeing none unoccupied his eyes turned to Brandon’s table, it had enough room for three.

Brandon’s heart leapt with fright as he saw his big brother coming towards him. He kept his eyes down as he focused on the tablecloth.

“Hey buddy, would you mind sharing your table?” He asked. Kyle had always been bold. Brandon nodded but he still kept his head down. “Thanks man.” Kyle said as he and Jayce sat down. “My name’s Kyle.” He put out his hand. Brandon looked up for the first time and smiled slightly to himself as Kyle showed no signs of recognition.

“People call me Blaze.” Brandon replied using his gangster name as he shook Kyle’s hand firmly. He noticed that Kyle was slightly taken aback.

“Well, this is my sister Jayce.” Kyle said introducing their sister. Jayce smiled and held out her hand. This time seeing no sings of recognition hurt, but Brandon just smiled and quickly shook her hand.

“So, what part of town do you two come from?” Brandon asked after a few seconds of somewhat uneasy silence.

“We live on Jackson Street about 4 blocks from here.” Brandon looked surprised and blurted out without thinking.

“When did you guys move?” He quickly added “I haven’t seen you ‘round here.”

“A few months ago, it was tough but we felt that’s what God wanted.” Jayce explained taking a sip of her latte which Amber had just served.

“Heard your mom was sick…how is she?” Bandon’s voice cracked a little when he mentioned mom. Just then he realized how much he missed her. Kyle shrugged off the surprise and answered.

“She’s doing okay but she’s…” Kyle stopped but continued after collecting himself. “She’s still grieving about someone who she never got to say goodbye to.” Brandon nodded, understanding more then they thought.

They all sipped at their beverages soaking in the comfort and warmth it brought. Brandon was just about to say something about having to go when Jayce started another conversation.

“So, um…Blaze, are you doing anything tonight?” Brandon slowly shook his head as a sick feeling filled his stomach as he thought of all the other people who had asked the same question before that had led to bad business. This was a much different invitation. “Well can I give you an invitation to a small Christmas eve service at our church we’re having this evening?” Jayce gracefully handed him a small card like note. Carefully Brandon took it and quickly breezed through it, taking interest in it which was a little surprising since he had never liked anything to do with church.

“Yeah, I might be busy tonight.” Brandon said knowing full well that there was nothing going on. “But if I’m free I might stop in.” Jayce smiled.

“We’ve got free food and drinks… non alcoholic.” She added with a laugh. This girl knew how to persuade someone. Brandon just nodded his head and stood up.

“Well thanks for yo company, it was… nice.” Brandon said almost hesitantly.

“See you around…Blaze.” Kyle replied holding out his hand. This time Brandon looked right into Kyle’s eyes and firmly shook his hand. There was a faint glimmer in Kyle’s eyes but before anything else happened Brandon walked out the door, back into the cold.

Brandon walked away from the coffee shop still shook up about the meeting with his brother and sister. It almost affected him more then when Flames his former gang leader had died. Jayce had grown so much, probably 15 or 16 now. Kyle was 20, probably in college. Mom… why had he hurt her? Why did he never say goodbye or even let her know he was okay? Pain burned like fire in his heart and tears blurred his vision.

He wanted to see them so bad, and the answer to that was right in his hand. Should he go tonight? He thought about it a long time and he wondered if it was even a good idea. The wind picked up but Brandon didn’t feel it, he was numb, inside and out. He just kept walking with his eyes on the ground. He wandered aimlessly down one street up the next. He agonized on whether or not he should go to the production. The sound of traffic and people were zoned out of Brandon’s mind as he thought. The simple yet difficult question, should he or shouldn’t he go?

Before long he shoved his hands in his pockets to keep them warm. He felt around for the invitation that Jayce had given him pulling it out once more. He flipped it over to the back to read the directions. The church was about 20 minutes away from where he stood; depending on the traffic detours and the driver. For some unknown reason a feeling inside washed over him. He had to go.

In less then ten minutes he found a taxi and quickly gave him the directions and the correct amount of cash. He was warm and toasty in the small cab and soon he found himself nodding to sleep. When he awoke he found that the taxi driver had stopped and parked the car. Brandon mumbled his thanks and quickly flung himself out into the cold. It was 6:20 pm and in another ten minutes the production was supposed to start. Five minutes was probably how long it would take for him to get to the church. Brandon looked at the invitation once more to make sure was headed in the right way and then set off.

It actually took him seven minutes instead of five, but when he walked a few steps onto a small lift and looked inside there were still people talking and laughing, he could hear them even from outside. A couple walked in the building as a young man from inside held open the door and gave them a bulletin. The door shut behind them leaving the cold air outside where it belonged.

After a few more seconds of contemplating whether or not he should really go inside he finally stepped up to one of the doors to walk in. This time a girl was there to greet him.

“Good evening and welcome to our Christmas Eve production my name is Lauren.” Her smile was true and authentic as she handed him a bulletin. Brandon nodded.

“My name’s… um, Brandon.” She didn’t seem to notice his stuttering but instead told him where he could find some food if he wanted or the auditorium which was right in the door across from them. Brandon being a guy (plus a teenager) immediately went to the refreshments. There were mostly cookies, but also candy and some chips and salsas. He piled his plate high and went to stand in a place where there weren’t so many people.

Everybody who saw him smiled and some came up and introduced themselves but there seemed to be so many people that it was hard to keep track. Suddenly there was a loud voice coming from the auditorium.

“If everyone could come and take their seats we’ll be starting in just a minute.” There was a murmur of enthusiasm as everyone began making there way to the auditorium. Brandon threw away his plate and walked with the flow. The auditorium sloped down just a little bit and there was a stage at the end that lifted up.

Brandon began looking for an open seat that was somewhat by itself, but to no avail. He saw a group of teens, probably his age sitting in the third row back from the front. There were a couple of seats empty next to them so Brandon went down to where they were laughing and chatting. When Brandon approached a young man who was sitting on the end looked up.

“Hey, do you need a seat?” Brandon nodded surprised at the young man’s friendliness. “My name’s Zac what’s yours?” He said introducing himself as he stood up and shook Brandon’s hand.

“Brandon.”

“Coolness, take a seat man.” He said ushering him to sit next to him and another person. “Alright guys, this is Brandon, Brandon this right here is Rebecca, or ‘becca’ as we like to call her.” He said pointing to the girl Brandon was sitting next to. Brandon smiled and nodded, she did the same with a little ‘hi’.

“This is Jeff, then Cameron and on the end is Sara who we call ‘tears’ which is kind of stupid because when she was little she would cry easy, so someone kept calling her ‘tears’ and it kind of stuck around.

“Hey Tears.” Brandon said looking over at her, seeing how much she had changed since he had nick named her ‘tears’.

“Hey Brandon.” No sign of recognition … the pain inside shot through him. Brandon sat back mournfully. They had been best friends when they had been neighbors and other then the few arguments about religion they had gotten along great! The aching subsided a little however when the group began to talk with him and with each other.

Brandon found himself looking around at all the different people that surrounded him. He had never been a fan of crowds…mostly because he didn’t know all of the people well enough to trust any of them. But in this crowd he was actually looking for someone. Mom. He didn’t find her or Kyle and Jayce. Disappointment flowed through him like an icy cold river. He shouldn’t have come.

Brandon turned to Becca who wasn’t in the conversation right at the moment. “Hey Becca.” Immediately he got her attention. When someone just meets a girl they seem to like it when they remember to call them by their name or nickname. “Do you know a girl named Jayce?” Becca laughed and replied.

“Everyone knows Jayce. Why do you ask?”

“Well, it was her that invited me to come tonight. I was hoping that I would see her and her brother…” He was going to say something about mom but he didn’t.

“Oh, well Jayce is behind stage because she’s singing tonight and Kyle’s running the sound board and lights up there behind all the seats.” She pointed behind them, but he didn’t catch any signs of Kyle.

“Oh ok, I was hoping they didn’t have to stay home because their mom was sicker or something.” Becca smiled again.

“Well their mom is here too.” Brandon glanced side ways at her then turned to look at her.

“I thought…I thought she was sick.” Brandon stated trying to look calm. “I just assumed she wasn’t coming.” Brandon’s heart began to beat a little faster.

“On no, she’s here,” Becca said as she pointed up and behind them. “Do you see the lady with the brown somewhat curly hair; she’s got a blanket around her.” Brandon saw her. It was mom, but she was so frail, it almost made him want to go up there and take her in his arms and just let her know that he would take care of her. But he stayed right where he was and pushed down all the raging emotions inside of him.

“We’re about to start, you two be quiet!” Zac said teasingly to Becca and Brandon.

“Sorry.” Becca replied smiling a little bit. A man who was probably in his late thirties or early forties took the stage. Brandon assumed it was the pastor.

“Hey everyone glad to see all of you here tonight! Well, I’m not going to do a whole lot of talking since you’ve already used up 10 minutes of my announcing time talking to each other.” A ripple of laughter stirred in the crowd. “So, for all of you visitors my name is Jason Benedict and I am the pastor of this church and I would just like you to know how excited we are to see you and if this is your first time visiting our church would you please just raise your hand? Not to embarrass you but to welcome you, also we would like to give you a small packet of information about our church and inside there is a small card and if you could fill that out and give it to the ushers at the end of the service or you can give it to a friend they’ll take care of it. Can all the first time visitors raise their hand?”

Brandon reluctantly put up one hand to signify that he was a first time visitor. There was about a half dozen others but all were decently spread out.

“Let’s give our guests a round of applause.” Mr. Benedict said just as one of the ushers handed Brandon a packet. Brandon ignored the clapping and quickly drew the card of information and looked over it. As his name he simply put ‘Brandon’ and for address he put a line. When he was finished he handed it to Zac who smiled and knowingly nodded. Brandon directed his gaze back to the stage.

Then there was a small play done by the kids who were 5-11. It was a play on the birth of Christ. Brandon looked in his bulletin to see what kids were playing what parts. He didn’t know any of them except one. The kid who was playing as Joseph - Nick Dawson, he had been a little kid last time he had seen him. Brandon chuckled under his breathe - he’d always been a good actor. The play ended with a song called ‘Adoration.’ As the kids exited Mr. Benedict came back onto the stage.

“Thank God for His love to send his only son. We cannot comprehend it.” There was a nod of agreement among most people. Brandon was stone. “Now to end the service Jayce is going to sing a song that was written for this particular service. Please let’s welcome Jayce.” There was a thunderous applause as Jayce took the stage. Her brown hair was down in ringlets; her blue green eyes glowed. Brandon smiled a little; she got her looks from their mom. Jayce smiled and nodded, music immediately flooded the auditorium. Jayce lifted the mic. to her mouth as she began to sing in a clear sweet soft voice.

“Oh and did you know

That so many years ago

There was a star placed in the sky

To show the way to the baby

Who for our sins would one day die?

Oh so long ago

The story is now so old

But again it will be told

Of how the king to whom I sing

Loved us so much that He

Came and died for you and me

Oh and did you know

That so long ago

He was born to die for us

To take away our sin

So in Him we could trust

Oh so long ago

The story is now so old

But again it will be told

Of how the King to whom I sing

Loved us so much that He

Came and died for you… and me

So please come and believe

This Savior loves you and me

Oh and did you know

That this Christmas Eve

He loves you and me?”

She ended the song looking right at Bandon, she smiled slightly and Brandon thought it looked like she gave a slight nod. Brandon had not cried since the Christmas Eve of the horrible accident. He gritted his teeth and grasped the arm rest with all of his strength.

The music silently played in the background as Jayce once again brought the mic. to her mouth.

“I’m here to tell you a story of what my life has looked like and how God has met me. Four years ago to this day, I lost my father and one of my older brothers in a terrible car accident. I’ll never forget the look on my older brother Brandon’s face when we swerved off the road or the feeling of terror in my stomach. For Christmas that year I learned that my dad and brother Trevor had passed away during the crash. It was the scariest thing that ever happened to me. It was the hardest thing that I ever had to deal with, and I tried doing it all alone by my own strength. Then two years later Brandon left and ran away from home, no one has heard from him since and my heart broke. It was during that time of fear and worry that God found me in my weakness. I was clinging to life only by my strength and I knew I was going to slip any second. He intervened and pulled me into my arms. He became my Father, my brother; I realized that I could live life fully in His care without fear of being hurt again without comfort.

“I’m telling you this story because I know what it’s like to be hurt. But what I also know is that God is always there because he was born - lived - died and came back to life. This song was written by my other brother Kyle and I, we know what it’s like to be hurt, but we also know that God loves us and in ways we cannot imagine. We were all sinners, worthy of eternity in Hell, yet He came and was born and died for each and every one of our sins. He took our punishment, and for that each one of us should seek to glorify Him forever in everything we do. And it’s not because we love Him that we do these things.” She stopped as she scanned the crowd, her eyes rested on Brandon. “It’s because He loves you.” She said softly tears brimming in her eyes. “Thank you.” She exited the stage gracefully as applause followed her.

The music continued as Mr. Benedict took the stage, again he took the mic.

“Thank you so much Jayce and Kyle. We have been incredibly blessed! And it is true… the Savior we believe in is alive, He was born, and He lived a perfect life with no sin and then became sin, so that in Him, we might become the righteousness of God! I pray that you all would go home with a fresh understanding of what Jesus did for us when He was born on that Christmas day so long ago! Thank you all for coming. If you have any questions please either come to me or another here, they would be more then happy to answer your questions.

“Well we have refreshments in the lobby please stick around and fellowship! Merry Christmas!”

Brandon leaned back in his seat utterly shaken by what had happened. When he looked up he saw Jayce coming down off the stage, Kyle was approaching her. Brandon jumped up and made his way to the two of them.

When he was two steps from them Jayce looked up, her smile was wide as she saw him. Without thinking Brandon enclosed her in a hug. He bit his lip to stop it from quavering. When he pulled away he had his hand on her shoulders and looked her in the eyes.

“Jayce, I’m so sorry for not being there for you… for running away.” Brandon’s voice choked. Jayce suddenly looked at him differently.

“Brandon?” She asked incredulously. Brandon nodded, tears streaming down his face.

“Yeah…” He looked at Kyle but what he noticed was a woman next to him. Mom. Tears were streaming down her face. Her hand reached out and brushed way his tears, ignoring her own.

“Brandon…” Brandon embraced her in a huge hug, one he hadn’t had for over four years. He held her fragile body close to his own regretting everything that had kept him away from her.

“I love you mom.”

2006-12-16T13:05:00.000-05:00

FiVE WORDS TO DESCRiBE YOU

01. blonde
02. Spanishimpersonater
03 humerous
04. at times Gullible
05. Talkative

FiVE OF YOUR BEST MEMORiES

01. Birthday party with my brother when we were 5 or 6
02. Jeff being stuck behind a seat and the song he sang
03. Having ice scream with a friend when everyone else was watching a movie... we couldn't tell the little kids so it was a secret
04. Episode III in theatres at midnight
05. The J&B shows

FiVE OF YOUR WORST MEMORiES

01. Not knowing who my cousin was when we first moved to NY
02. Getting caught
03. Nightmares
04. Being alone
05. Depression

FiVE TYPES OF PEOPLE YOU LOVE

01. People who make me laugh and or smile.
02. People who think of others more than themselves
03. I like it when people hang out with littler kids (being nice and thinking of the smaller ones)
04. outgoing
05. People who love God more than me.

FiVE TYPES OF PEOPLE YOU DiSLIKE

01. unprotective
02. self centered
03. decietful
04. unresponsive
05. rude

FiVE OF YOUR FAVORiTE NAMES

01. Michael (Mike)
02. Jayce
03. Alyce (elise)
04. Justin
05. Ally

Tai and Ben are over... they totally crashed and we didn't get to bed until 1:25ish........................ AND DEMORY WOKE ME UP AT 9:15!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I have a mime performance on the 17.... aaaahhhhhhhh that's tomorrow!

DELL RUNS.

2006-12-11T08:05:00.000-05:00

Gideon "I need a PANCAKE"
Dad and Dell "YOU need a spanking"
Dad and I... ooohhh, it's scary how we think alike.

This week is going to be crazy... just like last week. I love Christmas... but right about now... I just feel like it being a summer day and being able to go and relax!! I almost forget what that word means.

Sigh... there is not yet any snow... my heart breaks. I haven't even made a snow angel yet! I am so sad. I love snow angels... they are my favorite! They're so pretty!

I went to a Jackal's game with Regan (for her birthday party). I saw at least 7 fights (I didn't keep count, Bethany did). It was crazy. (oh, did I mention, it was my first hockey game). I really do like hockey... but since none of my brother's have played it as a sport, I didn't know many of the rules. I think I will study them so next time I go it makes more sense!!! But it was a heck of a lot of fun!

I got pizza the other night. I drove when it was flurrying (I've driven in every kind of weather now... snow, sleet, rain, sunshine!). hahaha. But, I still have not learned how to parallel park yet. alas and alack.

I played raquet ball with Jess this morning. I hit myself with the ball a couple of times. We almost ran into each other quiet a lot, and it was a lot of fun!

Nicole just came over to borrow some ketchup for eggs.... eeeeeeeewwwwww. Gross.

It's going to be a long week.

Edit:

PJ has played Hockey... however I was unaware of that. So one of my brother's has played hockey... I just wasn't around to see him ;).

2006-12-05T09:43:00.000-05:00

His promise to be with us day in and day out; through the longs nights, through the storms of life and through the darkness. That is truly amazing! To know that the darkness does not have to have dominion over our life... meaning how we respond, how we think and even, how we feel. Our absolute joy is found in Him, no matter the day, no matter the season, whether it is dry or fruitful. And that is all made possible because He was willing to come in the form of man... born into a world of sin to be our Savior!

"For His anger is but for a moment, and His favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning. As for me, I said in my prosperity, "I shall never be moved." By Your favor , O LORD, You made my mountain stand strong; You hid your face; I was dismayed. To You, O LORD, I cry, and to the Lord I plead for mercy; "What profit is there in my death, if I go down to the pit? Will the dust praise You? Will it tell of Your faithfulness? Hear, O LORD, and be merciful to me! O LORD, my helper!" You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; You have loosed my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness, that my glory may sing Your praise and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks to You forever!" Psalm 30: 5-12

"How can I give you up, O Ephraim? How can I hand you over, O Israel? How can I make you like Admah? How can I treat you like Zeboiim? My heart recoils within Me; My compassion grows warm and tender. I will not execute My burning anger; I will not again destroy Ephraim; for I am God and not a man, the Holy One in your midst, and I will not come in wrath." Hosea 11:8-9

"Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call His name Immanuel." Isaiah 7:14

"And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths and laid Him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn." Luke 2:7

HE WAS BORN.

HE CAME WITH COMPASSION

HE TOOK THE WRATH WE DESERVED

HE IS WITH US TODAY.

I Celebrate the Day

And with this Christmas wish is missed
The point I could convey
If only I could find the words to say to let You know how much You've touched my life
Because here is where You're finding me, in the exact same place as New Year's eve
And from a lack of my persistency
We're less than half as close as I want to be

And the first time
That You opened Your eyes did You realize that You would be my Savior
And the first breath that left Your lips
Did You know that it would change this world forever

And so this Christmas I'll compare the things I felt in prior years
To what this midnight made so clear
That You have come to meet me here

To look back and think that
This baby would one day save me
In the hope that what You did
That you were born so I might live
To look back and think that
This baby would one day save me

And I, I celebrate the day
That You were born to die
So I could one day pray for You to save my life

A shout out to Grace who prompted me to think more about my posts . Thanks Grace

(Btw, those who I tagged last time are still on, also, TAG, you're it Tai!).

"And I, I celebrate this day

You were born to die

And now I thank You for saving my life

I thank You for saving my life"

Thank you everyone for your comments! I pray for all of you guys just because I think of the small random things you have said through out the day. I appreciate all of your friendships .

Dell: purely me

2006-12-02T12:12:00.000-05:00

Christmas

What's your favorite thing about the Christmas time? All of them, I like getting our Christmas tree and decorating a lot. But I really like thinking about what it all means, and also, giving presents and to have the person I gave it to enjoy it alot.

What's your favorite Christmas song? Oh gosh, I like a lot, but probably the 12 days of Christmas, but I pretty much love Christmas songs... so pretty much, all of them, lol. I listen to them all year around.

How many Christmas plays have you been in? Um, that I've been in? I've seen quiet a few, been in. Nothing comes to mind, hmm, I know I've done 'Christmas presentations' and I will be doing a Mime for our Christmas service... does that count?

When do you put up your tree? December 6 (every year, it's my dad's birthday)
Is the tree real or fake? REAL! The smell of fresh pine... mmm, it's lovely.

Do you open any gifts on Christmas Eve? Hmm, I remember one time we did it but that was because it was a Sunday the next day and my sister needed the shoes we got her, so she opened it Christmas Eve

Do you ever wonder why it's called "Eve"? Cause it's the day before Christmas

Do you know why it's called "Eve"? Eve: The eveing or the day before a holiday, church festival, or any date or event: Christmas Eve... the eve of a birthday
What's your favorite meal at Christmas time? Pretty much I really like it when my mom makes ham, and she usually does on Christmas. So I really like that.

What other Christmas traditions do you have? Getting our tree Christmas Eve. Watching 'White Chrismtas' on Christmas Eve. Making popcorn garlands for our tree. We have this thing, where mum goes and hides all of our stockings, then she gives us hints, one hint will lead to another and so forth, until we find the stockings. It's lots of fun! We do that first, then while we get our stocking stuff (or before) dad reads the Christmas story. Then, presents. Then food. Then we usually chill out all day.

I'm tagging: Damaris, Als, Joe, the boyz, Jordan and Josiah, Andrew, Mattea, Amanda and Bethany!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANNA!!! We're going iceskating today with the Efthimious (or some of them ). Can't wait. THEN PIZZA. THEN SHOPPING!

And Happy Birthday Whitney... but as for now, I'm to jealous. Gosh, wish I was 17! . Just joking. Sixteen is pretty sweet!

but as for now. my feet are cold. and I'm looking forward to snow. You canadians are lucky!

d e l l

2006-11-27T11:45:00.000-05:00

Enjoy everyone!

'Why So Serious?' (A Walk To Remember)

2006-11-23T00:04:00.000-05:00

Snowflakes

I'm not going to lie
but this chica is looking forward to snow!!! However, today is supposed to get 'hotter' and 'hotter'. So, no snow today . Oh well.

Last night I stayed up until 1... and wanted to get up at 6... I made it to the Livingroom this morning, then fell asleep on the couch, with my Bible in my hand (I was trying to do devotions...)
This week, PJ, Cass and Jesse, Rawlieghs one day, and a few others are leaving for thanksgiving. hosers.

Having a week off of school rocks!

And I'm gonna sing a song... actually, to save you the pain, I'll just write it down .

"It's 3p.m." she said, I said"You're crazy
"She said "get out of bed, why are you so lazy?
Why waste the day away?"
I said, "Because I'm tired"
"Wendy's called by the way, they told me that you're fired.

"Woah oh oh, Woah oh oh Woah oh oh, woah oh oh
I crash into a wall
Woah oh oh , Woah oh oh
there's a ringing in my ears
Woah oh oh, Woah oh oh
and it's my wake up call
Jesus gave me a wake up call
oh take this world with a grain of salt
Jesus gave me a wake up call
"It's 3 a.m." she said, "Who are you, Matchbox 20?"
She said, "Are you getting rest?"
Sarcastic, I said "Plenty"
"Don't be a hypocrit."
I asked "What are you saying?
"When you praise God, do you mean it?
Or are you sleeping when you're praying?

Woah oh oh, Woah oh oh
so wreckless for all these years
Woah oh oh, Woah oh oh
I crash into a wall
Woah oh oh, Woah oh oh
There's a ringing in my ears
and it's my wake up call
God gave me a wake up call
Take this world with a grain of salt
Jesus gave me a wake up call

By Relient K. I think this song is hilarious!

[verse 1]
I hope it snows this week,
A snow flake on your cheek
Would make this Christmas so Beautiful
But that would just bring the pain
Cause things can’t stay the same
These Holidays won’t be wonderful

[Chorus]
I look under the tree
But there’s nothing to see
Cause it’s a broken heart that you’re giving me

I can’t figure you out
Is this what Christmas is all about
Cause it’s a broken heart that you’re giving me

[Verse 2]
I don’t wanna talk
I’m sick of all this talking
A broken heart wrapped up in a Box
This tear drops in my stocking

[Bridge]
I hate Christmas parties,
They offer me some punch,
But I just shrugI hate Christmas parties
You and the cookie
Tray hear me say bahumba

Ful la la la la la…la la la la la la [x3]

[Chorus]

another one by Relient K.

anyhow, I do hope it snows this week! A snowflake on your cheek! .
dell

2006-11-17T18:03:00.000-05:00

Life feels so great when your living it for God's glory! And I praise Him for His Spirit working in me to have me desire that for my life! It's fantastic!!!!!!!!! Somehow, God has given me desires of beautifulness... desires to love and enjoy Him! I know they are not mine, for when given to my own desires I ran from Him. Now I yearn for Him more then anything! Only by His grace and work in my life!

A picture of what it was like when I give into the desires of my flesh and what happens when God saves me!

Living in sin is like living in filth... you feel 'good' when you first move into your 'sin' and that suddenly become your life, but after time it eats you away... you feel like you're breathing filthly air. Then, you make up, ask for forgiveness and grow. When that happens it's like suddenly being at the beach after being shut up in a hole of darkness and dirt with horrible conditions. Suddenly you feel the wind on your face, and though the light might hurt your eyes for a little, it become so glorious you can't help but bask in it. You won't want to go back to the black hole filled to your head in filth... no, run free in the sand. Swim in the sea! Get a tan in the sun! How can one experience the beach and go back to the black hole of filth? No, the beach is a great thing... once you realize how great and amazing it is!

Though sometimes the beach has tropical storms...
it beats living in a pit of filth

getting a tan on the beach.
dell

2006-11-14T22:25:00.000-05:00

The Comments From Last Post
and that was a rather longish title

comment from Joe "oh the downs. the downs aren't cool.but I heard this analogy once: It's like walking up a flight of stairs with a yo-yo. Even though the yo-yo goes up and down and up and down, it's steadily going up because the person who's carrying it is going up. i find it to be an encouraging thought."

comment from damaris: "the ups are needed breaks.but the downs are usually where most of the growth happens."

comment from Joe: "Ok. here's a thought I just had....If anything apart from hell is grace, and day by day we're experiencing the mercy of God, His common grace, and His Spirit's work in our lives.... are there really any downs?If we do perceive "downs" as literally being "downs" then there is most certainly an error in our thinking about our position in this life, because in light of what we deserve the most depressing "down" should be viewed as the sweet sanctifying work of the Spirit of God. for our ultimate good, and His ultimate glory"

Comment from damaris: "everything short of hell is grace." therefore even our worst trials are merciful compared to what we should recieve.BUT i think we need to be careful relating to other's hard times. the best friend will help you change your perspective, yes. but they'll be gentle and remember that sometimes those in the midst of pain can't see as clearly as those on the outside. it's much easier to say those things and know it in our minds than it is to really believe them in our hearts. another aspect of the grace of trials: when there's absolutly no earthly hope, things you only knew in your head before become promises you cling to everyday.i guess my point is that even with the right perspective there are some circumstances where we'll still feel sorrow. it's possible to view sickness and pain as grace in light of what we deserve, but it doesn't mean we won't be "building a sorrowful lovliness" at the same time."

Thank you two for putting those two comments up. I read them with glee and gratefulness!

and sorry for not puttin gup a 'real' post, I'm just letting everyone know that I'm alive and finished with 'fasting' ;).

Dell.

2006-10-30T20:43:00.000-05:00

LIFE: you know it's got those ups and downs... it's on one of those 'downs' I suppose.

Anyhow, I'm not going to say alot.

Life's going. Could use some prayer with friendships and trusting in God... w ith everything.
I've kind of been realizing how often this world changes around me. Everything changes day by day... though lately they seem to be hitting hardcore. Circumstances are kind of hard to face sometimes when you see that relationships could be damaged. Tough. But I'm trying to trust in God. Letting Him have my destiny... letting go of everything.

It's been hard lately of trusting God with my future husband. Kind of been realizing how impossible it seems that it could all work out, and I feel as if it's not going to be a fairy tale at all... instead it's going to be tough. So, just pray for trust in God I suppose... and there's other things that are going on that makes it tough to trust God. But each day He has been faithful with speaking to me. Every morning for my devotions it's like I can hear His voice speaking to me through His word. Songs will come up about what I'm dealing with right when it seems hardest to deal with the issue. So yeah, trusting God, but also being okay with whatever happens in my life that isn't exactly what I would have planned.... cause somehow that's God's best for me. Doesn't really seem possible, but it is... even through the hurt.

Laugh. Love. Life.

Three great words!

2006-10-26T08:00:00.000-04:00

This is something I snagged from another young lady's post although I have added and taken out a few things! I hope you enjoy!
Dear Men,

Teacups. Treat women as if we are priceless and rare treasures. Treat us with gentility and care. Walk us to our cars. Offer us your chairs. Open doors for us. Guard our hearts. It is so refreshing for a young lady to have male friends who treat us like ladies and are making an effort to protect our tender hearts through Biblically based relationships. Encourage us in femininity! And please be patient if it takes us a little while to get used to chivalry--I still feel kind of bad when I accept a chair offered me by a young man, knowing he will now have to stand (nevertheless, thank you so much, I am truly humbled by all the times a man (any age) offers me his chair and has to stand...) It's not always easy for us to play the role of a Biblical women, so do what you can to make it easy for us! Initiate conversation with us (especially that of a Biblical nature)--that is a real blessing! You be the first to make the move, whether it be toward platonic friendship or marriage: we like that.

Small Things. The small things really matter to us. We love it when you notice our new haircut or shoes. Even something as simple as, "Did you get your hair cut?" lets us know that you care--and it's not too forward, either (as long as you don't mention something like that every time you see us... but we do enjoy it if guys notice our hair, clothes shoes... and if you don't like it... well, it's your pick whether or not to tell us (I think the closer the friendship the easier it is to tell the other that those shoes really do look awful hahaha.).
Be A Man. We like men to be exactly that: MEN! Serve us through leadership (we won't expect you to lead perfectly if you don't expect us to follow perfectly!). Try to fix things. Be strong (emotionally or physically) for us when we cannot. But at the same time, don't be afraid to cry. Take your God given role as a provider and protector seriously. Laugh with us, and make us laugh! Seek God with your whole being! Be an unquenchable worshipper!

Friends You have no idea how appreciated it is when you are only a friend to girls!!! Girls like it sooo much more then you trying to get their attention or ignoring them. Friends. Sweet and simple. Talk about things that are worth talking about... I am so encouraged when a guy initiates a conversation with a group of people (or even just a couple people) and we are able to discuss things worthwhile (mainly God, questions, Heaven, and ways we need to grow as friends).

Dear Girls,

Tincups. Don't expect men to be like us! They're not, it's a good thing even though we don't always believe that. Rejoice in their God given differences! Encourage them in masculinity and leadership. Let them try to fix your car's lights and radio--even if they break it further-- or trying to lead the caravan and they get lost...thank God for the care they are showing (By the way, thanks PJ, Jesse and Shwa)! Let them grunt loudly during the football game--or whatever odd little manly things they may do. Don't be offended if they don't show the same emotional ups and downs as we do--it doesn't mean they aren't affected. Let them be men.

Small Things. Girls, get it out of your head that the guy who complemented on your dress yesterday wants to walk down "The Aisle" with you. Enjoy the male friends you have...and remember, they're just friends. Someday a guy will probably pursue you, but why worry about it until that day comes? For now, enjoy singleness and the benefits of having Godly men as friends. Friends are wonderful. (Let's see how many times Savannah can use the word "friends" in a single paragraph!)
Be A Woman. Embrace femininity! Embrace your Biblical role as a woman! Why should we expect men to be gentlemen if we refuse to be ladies? Dress modestly. Be gentle in spirit. Laugh! Thank God that you are a woman fearfully made! Accept that offered chair. Smile and be grateful when that door is opened for you. Thank them when they offer to carry your books/bag/whatever, and then let them. Do what you can to make it easy for the men in your life to be men. The rewards are boundless!

Friends. BE FRIENDS... and if the guy is being your friend... DON'T TAKE IT AS ANYTHING ELSE! All guys in Christ are our brothers. Treat them with respect and friendliness. And be patient... let guys lead. If they want to talk to you and be friends, they will. Let the guys be leaders... don't take their position! Laugh... be serious... mature... think of them more highly then yourself (even if they are tincups, they still have precious hearts... make sure you ask yourself if you find that you're leading a guy on ''would I feel okay being at his wedding if he was marrying someone else? Would it be awkward?'')

To all of my friends here and Corning (and a few more!) I just wanted to let you know how blessed I am with you're example in this area. I can honestly say that the guys in our youthgroup and Cross culture excel at this, as do the girls! Thanks so much!!!!

2006-10-23T23:36:00.000-04:00

My dear friend Anna! How I have watched you grow! How I have loved being your friend! How I pray for you every day!!! Anna, God has blessed you with so many things! Grace, beauty, creativity, writing, love for others, a love FOR HIM! CONTINUE to grow! I love you so much! Embrace what God would have for you, and don't ever take your eyes from the power of the cross. Don't look to this world, look to His love for you and desire Him! He loves you, A MILLION times more then I do... and I love you a lot!

My brother Jarred!!! You and me, best pals! You have grown soo much! You are much much taller then me, and in many ways I am sure, much more mature then me! You are becoming such a man of God it's so amazing! I love being around you, watching you grow watching you worship! God is going to do great things through you I believe through your example of humility and biblical masculinity! I love being your sister and I pray that God would keep you strong for every day you face! Thanks so much for being such a great big brother!!

Cass and Jesse, two of a kind! Two that serve faithfully and that have served in so many ways. Cassie... there isn't anyone I know besides my mom who is more beautiful then you! Your example and love for me has touched me in ways I cannot express (and hopefully will be able to do in a more precise way in Heaven). I love you, I love the time you have invested in me who truly does not deserve a friend like you! (Jesse, your actually kind of in here by default, this is one of my favorite pictures of Cass, so I decided to add you too Jesse to see God working in your life is truly amazing. To see your joy in serving behind the scenes shows just how much you is desire God first in your life! Your example of brotherly love to your sisters Tanya and Cass truly astounds me and has been an example to me of how I can pray for my own brother! You two are truly a HUGE blessing to this church and to me! Thanks so much for listening to God's call!

Tai!!! Hey, just to let you know, you rock my world! God has blessed you in so many ways that I can only pray that He will grow me in! Your patience, your continuing desire for growth, your love for God, your happiness and smile! I can't wait to see how much God's going to do through you... especially when you're a mom! Thanks so much for allowing me to be your friend even though I know I don't deserve it! I think God would just want to let you know that He loves you very much, He wouldn't let things happen if He wasn't thinking of you and for your good! Everything that happens to you... He's got it all figured out! AND GUESS WHAT!?!?! It's for your best!!!! OUR GOD IS SO AMAZING. I'm praying for you, He's working in you and He will continue to bring the work He began in you to completion until the day of Jesus Christ! Once again, thanks so much for letting me be your friend, I know I don't deserve it at all!
And to all you others... I'll get to you someday!
Our God is amazing and I love Him!

ps. okay, the other two pictures are not working, if you wish to see them, simply click here. http://www.xanga.com/I_am_dell

2006-10-21T09:16:00.000-04:00

Hello all!

Last night I stayed up pretty much till probably 2 watching movies with my sister. It was fun! .

But before that we (Jesse, Cassie, Jenn, Bethany, Alex, Jarred, Demory, Reagen, Anna, Daniel, Jess, PJ and me) went to the East vs. West football game. Steven had I think two great catches which was pretty much really really cool! And we got really cold, and I was pretty sure that my toes froze off cause I couldn't feel them... at all. literally. I was getting kinda worried by the end. We all painted a green 'W' on our cheek (girls left, guys right) and we cheered for West hardcore. We forgot blankets, but we were saved by Jenn who brought a ton! And mama Hanshaw let us borrow one for most of the game. We had warm cocoa. cold nachos and cheese, and warm popcorn (once we got it to our seats they were like that ). And everytime something cool happened that I WANTED to see... Jesse stood up.. so all I could see was Jesse, not the football game that I wanted to see. Anna and I had to keep telling him to get down. lol. He was pretty excited about the game. Also, Jarred introduced me to two girls from his cross country team (Jenn and Kate) they thought we were twins, which is okay I suppose, since they were thinking we were sixteen not fifteen.

Anyhow, Jarred's off at crosscountry (for a race) I'm watching the kids and a nieghbors kid (who's six and a die heart cowboys fan and pretty much knows everything about football, it's crazy! And he knows all the names to the cowboys).

Anyhoo, life here's been fun! Looking forward to Christmas. Hanging out with a lot of friends. A shoutout to you Nicole, luv ya neighbor! Chillin out was fun.

God's been meeting me in a lot of new special ways. I kind of took a spiritual retreat this week which was a lot of fun and God really met me. 'Whispering gently in my ear' is kind of what it was like. It was very special. Kind of realizing how selfcentered I am. How focused I am on my wants and desires and not letting God be my only focus and my love! I want my life completely, in every area, focused on Him! Never me, I want to be a blessing to other people, not a pest, not arrogant, I need help! God is my life. To kind of sum it up.

My Perfect One
The love of my life
Spoke to me late last night
Whispered softly in my ear
Of things I longed to hear

His words directing my thoughts
His love capturing my heart
I no longer have fear
For I know He is here
He knows me! He loves me!
My heart is full of butterflies
As He sings to me His lullabies
He’s so sweet
And I’ll love Him for keeps

I came home full of sorrow
But He was there full of care
Once again He told me
He’d be with me for eternity!

His words directing my thoughts
His love capturing my heart
I no longer have fear
For I know He is here
He knows me! He loves me!
My heart is full of butterflies
As He sings to me His lullabies
He’s so sweet
And I’ll love Him for keeps

Love so divine
How is it that I
Came to be so in love
With my Perfect One?

2006-10-16T20:31:00.001-04:00

Today I went grapepicking and hung out with long lost friends... and my normal friends.

I went driving on a fourwheeler (as in I drove it) and I rode with the Efthimiou's (Anna)... that was fun!

Then on the way back I drove home (about 45 minutes or so... it was fun).

I made potato soup for dinner and it was really good. Jesse brought three bushels of apples over and I'm going to make some applepie someday soon! That will most certainly be fun.

Now... a serious question for you... do you like apple pie hot or cold??? Or rather which do you prefer? I think I like it better when I sneak a piece in the morning the night after it's been made, for my breakfast. But that is obviously just my personal opinion.

And for the first snow Sunday here in Corning... I'm wearting Christmas colors! Yes... Christmas colors... hahahahaha... oh what fun that will be!

And now... for the major theme of this post. I think I'm going to get my hair brown............................. sometime this month (or very early next month)... I keep getting told by the men in this house (specifically my dad and PJ) that I should keep it blond... but I think it's time for a change... I don't know.

aaaaaaannnnnnnnnnddddddddd that's about it.

Have a good one everybody!

My Pillow
I lay my head down to sleep
I close my eyes and I begin to think
About how soft and comfy
My bed and pillow can be

My head sinks down in its comfort
And my trials I start to abort
My dreams begin to be real
And everything I see I begin to feel
‘
My dreams whirl around in reality
My mind is in a mad creativity
As all my dreams become like life
In all the joy peace romance and strife

My face is warm from the rays of the sun
I blink my eyes and then I yawn
As the sun rises my dreams float away
But my pillow is here to stay
To remind me of my dreams during the day

2006-10-16T20:31:00.000-04:00

2006-10-13T07:55:00.000-04:00

Yesterday Mr. Snapp made up the best game at YSOS ever!!!

It was simply three teams... The Eagles, Cowboys, and Giants. Then there was a timer and rules and a game... and 100 yards you had to cover before you won. It was amazing fun... mostly because I was on the ealges. hahahaha. My team was the best... even though we didn't 'win' (notice the quotes...) we were 'winning' for most all of the game. hahahaha. GOOD TIMES!!!

I totally hung out with Rachael all Wednesday (we went and looked at colleges, got a latte and had a great time just talking!!!). Today I had art class, then I chilled out at the Efthimiou's until Silent Cry which was mad fun... I am so bummed Anna that you and I didn't have more of a 'get together' time, but we'll have it! Don't worry! How about getting together and doing 'pictures' like rachael did??? that would be incredible fun!! I think next Silent Cry I might have to crash your place again (if it's okay lol) but we'll see with the time that presents itself! . Happy Birthday Miina!

So tonight at Silent Cry we did an improvisation skit... where we split up into two teams (bananas and mangos... bananas was mine!) It was Jordan, Daniel, Andrew, Jennifer, Mattea, Joy and myself (I think that's it). We had a bag of all this RANDOM stuff... and three phrases we had to use... and it was soooooo much fun!!!!! Lot's of laughs!!!!!!!! And lots' and lot's of chocolate treasures!!! (Jessica's caramel filled cookies)

I know it's not Christmas... but aren't you excited!?!?!?!?! Christmas is just around the bend! I wore a scarf all day today, and tomorrow I think I'm going to wear my winter gloves! I love christmas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Stories... presents... friends... JESUS! Christmas trees..................................................... ooooooooohhhhhhhhhh........................... and cold. I'll try and forget that for the time being!!!!!!!
Alrighty... I'm off to write my story... and listen to Christmas music! adios!

dell

ps. Isaiah is a fantastic book to read! chapters 43 60 and 65 are good ones that come to mind! God is good... and Disciplines of Grace is a great book! If you haven't read it I would suggest it!

2006-10-09T12:50:00.000-04:00

Last night. Eagles verses Cowboys. Yes, I watched the game. I was all for Eagles and T.O. is a jerk! hahaha. funny story.

Bethany walks downstairs (into the Rawleigh's basement where we were watching the game) and sits down on the couch then there's a shot of T.O on the bench really upset about something and Beth just pipes up. "That guy looks like a jerk!" (And she was cheering for the cowboys). We all died of laughter, she didn't even know it was T.O. fantastic! hahahahaha. The game was fun to watch though, especially since I was one of the only ones cheering for the Eagles. Good times!

In a couple of minutes I'm off to go play some football I think! That'll be fun, either that or frisbee, though this morning Bethany and I ran and we sprinted for the last stretch and I nearly killed myself doing that, then we played DDR with weights, hahahahha. good times Bethany!

Well, I really miss the Efthimious!!! HOpe yall are having a good time!!!!!!!!!!! I should probably try and call you guys sometime! lol.

Adios to all!

dell

He’s Directing Me

My plans and dreams
Are here in my hands
As I stare into the night
I ponder on what is right
Should I let go?
Or hold onto them tight?
I want to see my faith grow
So I let go with all my might

It’s hard to think that while I live
I don’t know where I am destined
God may take me here or there
Nowhere or anywhere
It’s not my job to plan
Just to be prepared for whatever might be had
I know He’ll have what’s best for me
Better then anything that could be.

I live my life now
Without a doubt
That whatever happens
That it is in God’s plans
I could never be more happy
Then when God is directing me
No matter the circumstances
For His glory I continue dancing

2006-10-04T15:45:00.000-04:00

The LONG AWAITED POST...

Yes, it's going to be about e-team ;-).
It was a great week! Filled with evidences of God working and being good to the city of Corning and in the lives of all in it. It all started with Tai and the Wilber's crashing our place (Andrew and Mattea) and then we hung out at the Jeror's and waited... and waited... Rachael and Anna and quiet a few other people crashed (Anna and I were matching quiet by accident, jeans, yc t-shirt, pink undershirt and DC shoes it was fun!) and then they said they would be there in a couple of minutes so off we went to the Snapp's... then waited! They finally came in, Cassie was working on something that wasn't working with her and Jesse helped her out while I just sat there (not sure if that was helping Cass, but I sure do love you!). E-team crashed the Snapps. It was crowded. I saw Bethie and Abbie and we were all reunited. JaRed and Adam were there and we all talked for a little then we headed home. THEN... we hung out till 1 o'clock. Then we went to bed.
The next day we had prayer meeting and a few of us got up at 6 to go (Bethie, Tai and myself, along with PJ, and I'm guessing that Shwa drove us over as well... surprise surprise...) Prayer meeting was fantastic! A lot of people were there and to tell the truth, it was probably one of the times were I felt closest to God throughout e-team!
We went home... I couldn't eat anything, I felt sick to my stomach (staying up to late then getting up insanely early is not a good thing for ones stomach) So I had peanutbutter gronala bars from Heaven. That started off the day fantastically! hahahaha.
I was trusting in God for that 'high 75' weather... hahahaha, so I wore a t-shirt with a very light long sleeved button up shirt.... and we headed off to CenterWay Square for the e-team reunion and seperation. I WAS FREEZING COLD!!! Thank you Whitney for your sweater! Thank you Rachael for keeping me warm... and thank you Anna for being cold with me... hahahaha. We had a great time of worship... then we had to go off to our carwashes! And all this time... all of us girls staying at my house didn't have a ride to get there... thanks to Jason though we made it! hahaha. The carwash went quiet well, it was cold. I'll post pictures later. Anna high five! Those pictures were amazing! I did signs... no surprise... and our biggest joke of the weekend happened there.
'So, you're what... 16? I understand that this is a big transitional age for you... and I was just wondering... well, do you like guys?'
'Umm, yeah...'
'Oh, well I was just wondering... I thought maybe you would be immune to that.'
All you who know what I'm talking about I know your laughing, especially Adam. lol. Bethie, you're a great sport to go along with it after the joke was made! You're the greatest. ;-).
We also got these amazing pens from a shop next to us. I ended up with a blue one... as well as Abbie... 'The Fellowship of the Blue Pens' and she and I are 'tight' ;-). That is also when I named Daniel 'Sir Marcus'. and we all wrote messages on each others hands. Good times! And Anna... we are all out of ICE CREAM
After the car wash, I was exhausted, but Tai and I were asked to do an invitational outreach out on Market Street. And after I tried to call Shwa through Jesse and Cassie (sorry Jesse for hanging up on you... I didn't know that that would happen when I pressed the 'end' button. lol. but really no, I didn't mean to press it at all) Then Shwa came and picked us all up. Thnx again!
Then, the highlight of the week is when about when we were almost done, I walked up to this elderly man who stood in the doorway to a shop with a little child in a stroller at his feet. Smiling I walk up to him.
"Hey, would you like a free drink or snack?' (we were handing out free snacks and drinks along with the invitations. Then... to answer me he started speaking in a different language... French! Shwa who understood what he was saying didn't help at all cause he couldn't speak it. After a few seconds I explained to him that it was free... then someone came out (his niece and wife I think) and the niece spoke english (with a big accent). I got to explain to her what was going on and stuff... and she actually asked for another invite! I was so excited!
Then we loaded back up in Shwa's car and headed to pizza and a seminar Stephen was doing. It was a lot of fun. Us girls had a 'club' before hand where we all pretty much found a place and all laid down 'cause we were all so tired. good times. Pizza was good. Seminar was great... hanging out was cool. Going through the how good are you track with Tai was fun! And having Tai do it with me was even more fun! ;-). She did a great job! Corey and my brother came in about half way through. exciting. Sorry Corey about forgetting your birthday! Please forgive me ;-).
Then pretty much half of the world crashed teh Cornfield premises. I hung out with all the 'cool people' then went and hung out at hte Jeror's with Bethie and a few others (17 and up). Corey and I stole quiet a few chocolates... sorry. Couldn't resist. lol.
We stayed up late again. Went to bed. Woke up at 7. Got ready for the community fair. COMMUNITY FAIRS ARE GREAT!!! We got there (I went with PJ and we rocked out to 'Mood Rings' by Relient K, hahah), Rachael Bethie and I went and got some coffee. We set up. I gave away my hoodies and sweatshirts so I was left with underarmer and my t-shirt. The obtacle course was set up... half of the kids (and a few teens) wouldnt' be moved from it, haha. Corey lended me his jacket, thanks again, he was in his t-shirt for at least half of the fair until the Efthimiou's got him a different one.
I went and did signs out by the road... and low and behold... my french grandpa drove by! He saw me and waved with this huge smile on him... I nearly flipped out! It was so cool. I ran in and said hi to them, told just about everyone... it was SO cool!!! It was probably one of the best events of the fair!
Silent Cry did our mime performance, the first one wasn't as good, but the second one was great! Good times! I had soda... I did the frisbee throw (which is the ONLY event I have ever been put in charge of at any fair or festival we have done... lol). I got a flower tatoo on my face. and I became apart of the Bethie and Bethany Butterfly gang... from gangmills!
Then we all hung out talking about the wiffle ball game... Covie Land was trying to take back the title from last year! To quote Adam 'it's not over until the tickle me Elmo laughs' hehehe. There was a lot of video taken of people talking about who they thought was going to win or lose ect. really funny!
I got squished into the back of the van on the way home. We got home. I took a nap. We were all VERY cold... Tai and I went walking around in big blankets (we must have looked silly ;-). Then after dinner we headed to the Efthimiou's for an intense game of Capture the Flag (sorry Jared, but we won!). And Adam, just to let you know I wouldn't punch you... unless you gave me a reason ;-). We headed home (once again Shwa drove us, though Alex drove us there).
Then to bed (I didn't get there till 1). THen woke up at 6, got ready for church. Bethie Tai and I went to church. We set up everything. Prayer was great. Worship was great. Service was good! Afterwards food was great... I became very jealous of Corey because he stole my little brother's love. :-(. I'm okay now, I've got it back :-). lol. Then food... and WIFFLE BALL. AFTER THREE GAMES, WHICH THE LAST ONE TOOK UP 16 INNINGS... CORNING IS STILL CHAMPION!!! Yes, Corning still holds the title. ;-). Good times!
Then... *sniff* e-team left *sniff* Bethie and Abbie left me... the fellowship of the blue pen parted (for whatever time it may be) and Bethie of the butterfly gang left us. We all loaded up into Jason's car... but alas, we didn't go very far... just far enough were we could get some pictures. Then the rest of the e-team left. Hung out. Drove home. It rained. I crashed. We watched a movie and ate icecream. That was about it.

SORRY THIS IS SO LONG!
Dell

2006-09-26T15:40:00.000-04:00

Life's been busy... hahaha... I always say that for an excuse for not updating. lol. The truth of the matter is I've been lazy.

School's been going.

I've been doing a lot of writing...

I'm reading Lloyd Alexander books...

Devotions have been going great!!!

Friendships have been growing...

God is good!

And I've been tagged. lol. here goes!

Name ten of life's simple pleasures that you like the most:
1. Spending time with God whenever I can
2. Looking and thinking about stars
3. Laughing hard (it's good for my abs)
4. Watching sunsets
5. Writing poetry and stories
6. Getting mail in the mail box (like the good old days, haha)
7. Spending time with my family
8. Playing my guitar
9. Singing (though nobody else likes it)
10. Drawing (and I am not filled with false modesty when I say that I am not very good, I just like doing it)

There's that!

E-team comes on thursday!!!! Please be praying for a passion for spreading the Gospel! That I would glorify God with everything that happens (trusting God with all that happens). And please be praying for good weather! Doing a car wash in 60 degree weather would be 'cool' but it might be more helpful for somewhere in the 80's. haha.

Have a great day!
ps. Kutless is now one of my favorite bands.

2006-09-19T20:39:00.000-04:00

Busy week. Thus the reason for no posts
Fun weekend. Hanging with Tai and Mansfieldians and Greg.
Convicting message. About loving correction.
Back to school. Trying to be excited for what God would have me learn each and ever day
Learning a lot about life. God has been showing me a lot of new things lately... it's been really neat.

The main thing would be loving Him more the anyone else ever! Here in Corning there's usually the common story of us teens wanting to grow up and get married is a common subject, and to tell the truth it's not a bad thing... we talk as friends and we get each other's input and we talk about how the Bible talks about marriage (and how we're suppose to prepare for that now). Anyhow, lately, God has been directing my thoughts to His plans... not mine. God really convicted me about saying 'After Catalyst I'm hoping to get married' because that has practically been my plan, finish highschool, go on catalyst then hopefully get married. But... what if that's not God's plan at all? What if He doesn't want me to get married ever? Is that a possibility? And the answer is that it is a possiblity that I might not get married, though I do believe that God calls me to prepare for it, that doesn't neccesarily mean that it will happen. Can I be okay with that? The answer is yes. The reason is because God is my only need. He satisfies me, He gives me life and my joy is in Him.
I've realized that I have made many 'plans' for my life... dreams this world seems to call them... and my life now has been revolving around them. Marriage could never be my complete fulfilment... that is God's role. And I've come to realize that I love Him! He is my first love! He loves me no matter what... no matter how I feel, no matter what the circumstances nothing! I have to give my dreams to God! Each and everyone of them, because He knows what's best for me and that is what He's going to plan out for me!
"But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For His sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish in order that I may gain Christ." Phil 3:8
"...but whoever loses his life for My sake shall find it." Matthew 16:25
I have to have a life purpose greater then marriage... and that is glorifying my Savior in all that I do!

Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides You"

Psalm 73:25

My First Love
Stuart Townend

first verse
My first love is a blazing fire I feel His powerful love in me
For He has kindled a flame fo passion, and I will let it grow in me
And in the night I will sing Your praise, my Love
And in the morning I'll seek Your face, my Love
Chorus
And like a child I will dance in Your presence
Oh let the joy of heaven pour down on me
I still remember the first day I met You
And I don't ever want to lose that fire, my first Love
second verse
My first love is a rushing river, a waterfall that will never cease
And in the torrent of tears and laughter, I feel a healing power released
And I will draw from Your well of life, my Love
And in Your grace, I'll be satisfied my Love
third verse
Restore the years of the church's slumber, revive the fire that has grown so dim
Renew the love of those first encounters that we may come alive again
And we will rise like the dawn throughout the earth
Until the trumpet announces Your return.

Surrender
My hands hold safely to my dreams
Clutching tightly not one has fallen.
So many years I’ve shaped each one
Reflecting my heart, showing who I am.
Now you’re asking me to show
What I’m holding
Oh so tightly.
Can’t open my hand; can’t let go
Does it matter?
Should I show you?
Can’t you let me go?

Chorus
Surrender, surrender
You whisper gently
You say I will be free
I know but can’t you see
My dreams are me,
My dreams are me

Say you have a plan for me
And that you want the best for my life.
Told me the world has yet to see
What you can do with one
That’s committed to your call.
I know of course what I should do
That I can’t hold these dreams forever.
But if I give them now to you
Will you take themAway forever?
Or can I dream again?

Declaration of Love
My dreams are in my hands
Held out to You
I know you'll take them
And use them the way You will
I know You always do what's best for me
Even if it's humbling
But here they are
Take them and shape them
I know You are in control
Here they are
Here they are
Make me into one who will always
Call to You
Who have I in Heaven but You
And on Earth there is no one like You
And once more here is a declaration
Of my love
For I love You!

2006-09-12T11:16:00.000-04:00

"Behold God is my helper, the Lord is the upholder of my life." Psalm 54:4
Oh take joy in this! That no matter the circumstances, no matter the pain, no matter the hurt God is your helper, He is our helper, He is my helper. He promises to help you! To strengthen you through His own power. We are weak, He has made it so... so that His glory may be shown through our lives! Take joy in whatever season of life, even in the mistakes, know that God uses all things for our good and will turn even our mistakes and use them for His glory and our good... but not that we may continue in sin! By NO means!! But we know that by grace we are not only forgiven but also transformed! And no matter what we have done, no matter what has happened in our life, He upholds it with His hand... our life is never far from His thoughts. He loves you, and does all for the good of those who believe in Him... He loves you! How absolutely amazing! How absolutely amazing! I've made mistakes, I've made wrong decisions, but God in His mercy forgave me and forgives me! But that is not all... He also is changing me! That is not just my story... but every story of the forgiven sinner is the same! Thank God... what a Savior!!!
dell

My heart seems to rip as I think about all of those I have lost My soul seems to sink as I think about the cost Of having close friends, of having people I love All of the sudden they're gone and all I can ask is why, the answer is ''cuz' My heart cries out... but no tears stain my face I look around...the only place to find comfort is in God's grace

The pain is still fresh... the memory still so vivid Everything seems so far away and livid The hurt doesn't stop and it doesn't go away
It seems to increase day by day
A memory here and memory there
Life isn't fair!

Then I think... if life wasn't fair where would I be?
If life wasn't fair what could happen to me?
I deserve only one thing and that's I deserve hell
I deserve to be sent away where only pain dwells
And what do I have now to look forward to?
I have been given the promise of etenity with all that is true

2006-09-10T19:53:00.000-04:00

HAPPY THIRD ANIVERSARY!
Today we had our third aniversary for our church! D&D productions (aka dad and derrick) put together a video for us which was fifteen minutes. loads of fun! I was reminded of how faithful God is and how sovereign He is. I remembered the times when there wasn't a whole lot of growth in our church, and at times that was really frusterating... then there was the 6 in 6 prayer, where we prayed that in six months six individuals or famlies would come to our church. I remember one week I was talking to someone while I was greeting and for some reason I said, 'watch, three to five families will come today' and it was crazy cause that happened (I tried again next week, it didn't work ;-). But just remembering that God has been totally sovereign over our church, it's growth, it's memories and He has been faithful towards Corning in providing us with whatever we may need for whatever season we are in!
God is good.
Corning is called
and I love it!!!

'So, whether you have been with us for the past six years, the past three years, a couple of months, or even the past thirty minutes, you have been apart of the history of Sovereign Grace Church New York.' Mr. Snapp

'Faith is looking back on God's grace with thankfulness, and looking forward to God's grace with confidence.' Mr. Snapp

'And we had one college kid move here, PJ Kememer, and he was for a time, our college ministry.' Mr. Snapp

'So, I think I might have been seeing things... but I'm pretty sure I saw Jesse in orange hair...' I think many people asked that of me today.

'They're just shoes man!!!' Stephanie Rawleigh

'So, back when we were meeting at Winfield we were Anna and Demory's age' Rachael Efthimiou, talking to me.

'I'm not wearing a tie, I'm just gonna wear my hawaiin shirt.' Jarred Cornfield

That's about all I can remember for right now! hahaha.

Psalm 66.

Whenever we are looking back on past grace or looking forward to future grace... may our eyes always end up looking up!

2006-09-09T19:09:00.000-04:00

Okay.... here goes
If you guys could be keeping our pastor's daugther, Jennifer Snapp in your prayers that would be fantastic! Today we all (meaning pretty much the gangmill kids) went up to the Efthimious to play some frisbee, however, before we played some people were playing on the zip line. Jennifer went on it (it was her very first time) and she fell off right after take off. She landed on her back... Mrs. Efthimiou Beth and I (and a few others) were standing right there watching her. It is probably one of the scariest things I've ever seen and me and Beth especially were pretty shaken up. Mrs. Efthimiou (praise God for her!) literally revived Jenn, she had the wind knocked out of her and was in shock and couldn't breath. It was about ten minutes before she came out of it. God was gracious! It was clearly by the grace of God that nothing worse happened to her. But if you could keep praying for her, her back is incredibly bruised and she still can't really walk around much. But, I'm headed over there to have a movie night with her and a few friends! Pray that we would be a blessing to her and that she wouldn't be overwhelmed tomorrow at church! Thanks you guys soooo much!

Don't think I'm going on a zip line... lol.

dell.

2006-09-05T22:18:00.000-04:00

Ithaca... yesterday for a 'surprise' for the Efthimiou's we went to Ithaca... adn believe it or not... IT WAS GREAT!!!!

A couple hihglights:

Looking at random scholorships with Rachael on the way there: (Hmmm, can I get one for being a blonde...? look it up!)

Getting there and eating food: And watching Jarred make his alphabet with pretzels

Hanging out on the play ground: Yeah, we all felt like kids... it was fantastic! I played on the seesaw, drove in the car, took lots of pictures and almost puked on the swirly machine that you can't explain, so for those of us who saw it and used it, you know what i mean!

Taking tons of pictures with Anna: And yes, I'll have them up here as soon as I can find the chord that hooks up from the cam to the computer so I can dowload all of them

Going on a fifty mile hike up the gorge: Okay, so it wasn't quiet that long... but the way back was cool... yay for biblical fellowship with Rachael!! Luv ya girl!

Going out to icecream at this really cool place: While I wrote a letter while Rachael did homework yeeeaaaahhh.

Then listening to music and chillin' in the car till I got home, then we just chilled at home. GOOD TIMES!

Pictures will come...

someday. hehe.

Breath In Breath Out

So many things flash before my thoughts

How is it that there hasn't been much of God?

My life is a swirling circle

There doesn't seem anything worth it

That makes me want to keep on going

But how do I go through life not knowing

What's wrong and what's right?

I've got to get the things I need in sight

I do not want to keep on breathing filth instead of air

What makes me think I'm gonna make it there

Without anything to keep me going for the end

I can't even make it around the next bend

Help me see what's gotta beThe point in living giving and seeing

All that God's wanting to do through me

Keep on believing

I've been trying to keep on at it for just another day

But doesn't seem as if this momentum is gonna last anyway

Keep on breathing keep on living keep on trying to survive

My passions for what's right I've gotta revive

Help me out of this pit of mistakes

I'm wanting to go on with my life no matter what takes

I look into your eyes

I promise, no lie

I'm not gonna mess up like that one more time!

Breath in...

Breath out...

Fight the sin...

No more of this doubt

Living my life...

With God on my mind

Finally... I have life

2006-08-31T21:21:00.000-04:00

Doesn't everybody just love the dentist??

I had a dentist appointment today. I love it how they tell you how beautiful your teath are and are praising you for flossing and brushing of teeth after ever mean (and plus) when you really haven't done any of those things (especially the flossing). It makes me think if they're not really laughing at me, or if they really do think I've been flossing my teeth after ever meal...? hmm I wonder.

Well, they say my teeth are fine... I didn't have to get xrays... however they did mention something about pulling out wisdom teeth... NOOOO!! Let me keep my wisdom, I'm sure I need it! (plus I don't want that minor problem of extreme pain).

I made cookies tonight... the first couple of batches weren't the greatest (because I was writing and they got kind of burnt, adn I hadn't added enough flour), but I added flour and the rest turned out a ok.

Well, that's about all that's been going on here! Other then the fact that I immensly enjoyed the sunshiney day!!

Jarred is in the back playing his electric, it's rockin the house! When I grow up maybe I'll get as good as he is! (then again... maybe before I grow up eh? lol). I'm actually at the point where PJ can teach me something and I know what he's saying! hahaha. My hope is to be able to jam with PJ and Jarred at the latest by next summer... I'm not very far now, just learning on strumming and memorizing the top string in E and D (so that I can play bar chords well in E and in drop D). Anyhow, enough of my random ramblings! Hope everyone is having a great day!

Dell

2006-08-29T19:45:00.000-04:00

When I do look back on my life... will I regret it? Will you regret your life? What's the point of living?

'I am most satisfied when God is most glorified!'

I DO NOT WANT A WASTED LIFE.

Life Is Good by Stellar Kart

Life is good,
eternal life is better
Life is good, eternal life is better
Life is good, eternal life is better
Life is good, eternal life is better

All around me smiling faces
Different people from different places
Time is short, don't wanna waste it
Not ashamed so I'll just say it
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa

All around me your creation
Brings me to my knees in adoration
Beauty here cannot compare to
What I see when I first see you

Life is good, eternal life is better
Life is good, eternal life is better
Life is good, eternal life is better
Life is good, eternal life is better
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa

All around me your creation
Brings me to my knees in adoration
Beauty here cannot compare to
What I see when I first see you

Life is good, eternal life is better
Life is good, eternal life is better
Life is good, eternal life is better
Life is good, eternal life is better
Life is good, eternal life is better
Life is good, eternal life is better
Life is good, eternal life is better
Life is good, eternal life is better
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa

Isn't amazing that Heaven is going to be more real than this??

2006-08-25T11:39:00.000-04:00

So, Monday felt like Friday... then Tuesday Wednesday and Thursday all felt like Saturday, and today feels like Friday! Finally! lol.
So, we had Corey and Jared Blake Wednesday and some of yesterday, which turned out to be quite a fun time... despite several injuries. . When they got here, we hung out for a while then went to go play some wiffleball... corning style. The teams were: Dad, Jarred, Corey and Gideon verses Jared, PJ, Neeki and myself. The game was... kinda slow... compared to most games played, but it was still fun. .
Then, fooseball... for the sake of Corey and Jared I won't mention anything further about that. if they wish to tell you all what happened, then they can, I won't.
Then people got here so we got to play Football. The teams were: PJ, Corey, Dell, Neeki/Jenn, Daniel verses Jarred, Jared, Dem, Jesse, Bethany. Dad was all time QB. Good times... I fell once (and no, it wasn't Jesse's fault this time, he'll have you well know).
Afterwards we played Frisbee the teams were: Alex, Dell, Jared, PJ, and Anna verses Jarred, Daniel, Bethany, Dem, and Corey. And I collided with a couple people during that game... but I came out way better then usually!
THEN PIZZA!!!! That was a lot of fun. A lot of us went outside and ate in the front yard picnic style. Alex got some upstate NY chocolate milk for himself and Jared. lucky. lol. And Emma is one of the coolest people!
After that we tried to figure what we were going to do then finally decided on capture the flag. This was a lot of fun. despite the fact that it seemed that there were some unfair advantages for the other team. . They were still on the jersey side while we got the fun side! Well, when it was a bit darker, I went to the side of the house where you can go through thorn bushes, hop an fence and get on the otherside quite secretly and got to the otherside. I was over there for a while. Then as I was lying in some tall grass i see Corey walking over. It was one of those things were you could only pray that he wouldn't see you because there was practically no chance of him not seeing you. So when I knew that he saw me I made a mad dash to get away. I'll say that I got pretty far... but before I could get away Corey tags me... slips on the wet grass makign me fall down as well. So, after sliding five feet on my shoulder, falling on my back I was rather stiff and sore for the remainder of my time in JAIL. Oh it was a blast. Then I accidentally got Alex in jail (and no Anna, you were very hard to see). So, the game ended with Corey diving into a thorn bush, getting caught and realizing that God must want him to always have scratches and scars on his face and the game ended in a draw.
Then we stayed up till midnight talking about nothing... then decided to go work out in the morning at the Y. It was a lot of fun... hahaha. Then we went off to get 'bagels with Jaffrey...' and got INTENSE chocolate milk... not the lowfat stuff. And we can do that cause we worked out. haha.
We hung out then they finally headed out at the very last minute. Corey will be back in a week and a day or soemthing like that. and Jared will be here on the e-team! Can't wait.
Sorry for the randomness! It's all I got
dell

ps. please be praying for my sarcasm (not that I would get better at it, but that there is not nearly as much of it in my talk as there is right now). it's getting me into a lot of trouble with my conscience (therefore God has been convicting me about it). So, yes, I am really sorry to all those people I've been sarcastic with... (which is pretty much everyone I talk with unfortuanatly). Please know that I am trying to change that in my life right now!

2006-08-22T23:27:00.000-04:00

Today will go down in history as the day that I beat Bethany Rawleigh at DDR!!!! YAY!! hahahaha. I won during the song 'Can't stop Loving' I think. somthing random like that. (It shall also be mentioned as a side note that I won several other times after that... but the first time is what really matters. lol).

Well, I went driving again today... someday this is gonna get old, but until then, i do really like learning how to drive. . Maybe when I grow up I'll be really good and actually know where the lights are! And when I accidentally turn on the windshield wipers, that I'll know how to turn them off. haha. (*quick thought* hope nobody makes fun of me for that, lol).

Sunday night we had a campfire with our caregroup and some caregroup wannabe's, hehe. It was such a great time! Alex Jarred and I were gonna do an Indian Tribal dance around the fire, but we never got around to it, someday though! We played football, my team won... techinically... hmm, yeah. But it was really neat, cause we were all there and it felt like we were family... all of us just chillin out, watching for shooting stars. talking about the future, toasting marshmellows, making fire!!! Telling jokes, and just enjoying one another's company! It was great!! Going down in history as one of the most memorable nights ever for Delian Jayce Cornfield!

Someday though, we are going to do an Indian Tribal dance around a fire!

Well, I've got to go work out tomorrow (early) then these two Corning wannabe's are coming to my house so i've got to clean it all up... hehe, I'm okay with that (MAYBE). So, off to bed I go!

Have a great night everyone. If you read this, I just prayed for you! May your thoughts be glorifying to God!

Delian

ps. La Abuela is now leaving our driveway. I hear her making funny noises... haha.

2006-08-19T19:51:00.000-04:00

So... I have officially gone... 60 mph!! hahahaha. (please, nobody make fun of me. lol).

I really don't have a whole lot to talk about. sorry, i'm such a hoser. lol.

I went and worked out this morning and my shin is starting to hurt again... so hopefully that goes away, but I feel better because Jarred just started cross country and he's really really sore (as in he's having a hard time walking, hehehe)... but I'm hungry and I'm making a grilled cream cheese and jelly sandwhich.

'Let all the words from my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing to You, Oh Lord, my rock and redeemer.' Psalm 19:14

2006-08-14T20:06:00.000-04:00

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2006-08-14T18:03:00.000-04:00

So... guess what?

I GOT MY PERMIT TODAY! I'm so excited, and for all you other hosers with a license or permit, don't take my thunder! hahaha, jst jk. I'm really excited! Just went driving for the first time on the road with dad in the Suburban (which is a beast to drive) and it was great! Actually, it really felt like I had already driven before and stuff so I wasn't nervous at all... with the exception of turning when there was a car right there. So... I'm pretty excited and now I've got to go eat!!!
adios amigos!

dell

2006-08-12T22:04:00.000-04:00

I've finally gotten my brother back! Beth's monkey's (whom I watched as she was gone) have been given back to her. . Right now we're all jamming out in the living room, and Alex and dad just got back from getting coffee at starbucks and a video camera for Jess.
This was something I wrote yesterday outside when the sun was just setting, I was by myself sitting on the ground next to our gazebo... alone thinking about Heaven... as I started writing excitment filled me... these are the words that came from my heart.

This Adventure Awaits
A rippling breeze
A sunset of ease
Warmth that does not cease
What is this place?
Joy radiates off of my face
It fills my soul with excitement
This is the place where I’ve been sent

Never ending days of adventure
Filled with nights so pure
I could always be sure
That I would never have to leave
And this comfort I receive
The joy of being where I belong
My heart breaks into beautiful song

I am in the place where I always wanted to be
I am in the place I longed to see
I am finally here… I am finally free
From all the misery of my mistakes
Thinking of it all my heart wakes
I sit here completely in love
To the Home I have finally come

Words cannot describe my delight
But I will try and explain the sight
This marvelous place where all is right
The joy that fills your soul overflows
It never stops it only grows
Those perfect places you always dreamed of…
This is it… it is perfect… full of love

You breath in and you couldn’t have drawn in a fuller breath
But the next is even more in-depth
In this place where there is no death
Your comfort never leaves
There is always something new to perceive
You never grow weak, only stronger
You days are never shortened, they only become longer

The sky above never ends
No matter how far you should ascend
There is always another bend
It goes on forever
There’s always something new to discover
Come through and enter the gate
This adventure awaits

I can't wait!

Have a great day at church tomorrow!

-----10-15 minutes later-----
okay, so i have to wait another 20 minutes before I can go to bed so that I can switch out the laundry so that I have the shirt i want to wear for church clean. I know, I should have done this during the day, but I'm a horrible procastinator and now i have to pay for the consequences. I can't really think of anything to write... but I'm afraid if I try to do somethign else (like read or write or something more productive) I'll fall asleep (which would be bad). So this is more for my own sake then for your entertainment. . Well, Beth came over and hung out for a while after they got back from the Worship Conference... that was mad fun! Beth is probably one of the coolest people in the world and i'm not gonna lie! high five girl!

So, earlier today and yesterday evening when I was writing 'This Adventure Awaits' I had a sudden sense of this isn't the place (earth) where all my dreams are necassarily gonna come true. there are the deeper dreams of what I specifically want to do with my life... I've always wanted to be a writer, but I want to be a mom more, and I was thinking about how that might clash... but then I was thinking... 'hey, you can write all you want here... but think of all the greater things you're gonna be able to write about in Heaven and how much more TIME you're gonna have!' I got pretty excited! Also I'm pretty much looking forward to getting rid of all these scars I've got... I was telling somebody the other day that I couldn't wait for Heaven so that all my scars would dissapear, and since the scar on my leg has been acting up a lot lately (as in causing some intense pain) I'm pretty much lookign forward to the day when it's gone! And I've always wanted to be able to sing... well... anybody that knows me knows I can't sing... so now that you know me... i can't sing... (rephrase that, 'I can't sing well.). I'm hoping that in Heaven that I'll be able to sing beautifully, not only with my voice, but with my heart. And I can't wait to see the stars! I love the stars... and i want to go to Neverland someday... hehehe. sorry, inside joke between me and somebody else.

I think that my laundry is pretty much done. Don't feel bad if you have only skimmed through this, or even just saw it and went somewhere else cause you didn't feel like reading all of it! I understand completely (probaby cause I've done it to you one time or another) . Have a great day!

2006-08-10T21:28:00.000-04:00

God has been teaching me a lot lately... but mostly it would be to pursue Him... desires for Him and knowledge of Him. My spiritual life has often been 'if God wants me to love Him, or to know Him more, He'll either give it to me or give the desire to pursue it in me.' So on and off I have pursued these things... but since desires for Him go away when I desire the world (and seeing as I am a sinner) I often desire the world. It has been a struggle, but one that I'm praying that God will stregthen me to continue in for as long as I live. My life has so often been 'me time' instead of focused on God... and that not only interferes with my focus on Him, but also in how I treat everyone around me... especially my family and even with my close friends. I do wish to grow, and even though sometimes I don't have a 'burning passion' for it, there is somewhat of a desire for it (focusing on God, learning about God, loving God ect). I could use some prayer... especially that I would not become discouraged when I fail, but instead humble myself before God and cry out to Him, and also that I would continue to confess my sins to others when I do sin against them...especially my family.

Thank you all so much!!!

Continuing to cling to the Cross.

dell

Here Is My Life

In my car on the road again
My head is spinning
Hoping that this isn’t a dead end
But once again my trust is slipping
Gas pedal on the floor as I take the next bend
Suddenly I’m skidding
My life flashes before me… am I dead?
My soul starts screaming
Just give me one more chance!!

Life never seems so sweet
Till it’s almost taken away from you
Death never seems such a defeat
Till it’s all you have left to do
You can’t go back and press delete
On all those mistakes that you knew
Would be right there with you
What you gonna do…
With this new concept in view?

In my new car on the highway
I am blinded by my tears
Hoping they go away
But once again the aching draws near
Break on the floor the car begins to sway
Suddenly I hear
Sirens on their way
Am I really here?
My soul begins to pray
“Father please be near!”

Life never seems so sweet
Till it’s almost taken away from you
Death never seems such a defeat
Till it’s all you have left to do
You can’t go back and press delete
On all those mistakes that you knew
Would be right there with you
What you gonna do…
With this new concept in view?

Here is my life
Here is my heart
Here’s what’s been going on deep down inside
You’ve given me a new start
So here is my life

2006-08-09T20:09:00.000-04:00

Alrighty, here are some pictures i promised ;-)!!!
Some of them aren't the best quality because I scanned them (they were taken from a disposable camera). Anyhow, each have their own story... not really, but here ya go!
Me and my sistas!! Or at least some of them. Anna, Rachael, and me. This was after one of our missions and we were all cleaned up. I had my new favorite t-shirt on!! 'FREED'(not to be confused with 'Fred')

The infamous Anna with Adam's (the other guy's) Boston Hat! Go Anna!

This is the backseat of the van on the way to YC06! We all have our pink hair (mine still remains)

DEFEND... and what's this... ORANGE hair?? lol.

This was only the beginning results. Pretty much everyone (give or take a few) on my team did their hair orange.

Scarface and bro

And my ultimate Favorite!!! That's my brother... looking masculine!! ;-).

Hope yall have enjoyed!

Living life focused on the cross and nothing but the cross!

dell

2006-08-07T17:21:00.000-04:00

The long awaited post by dell cornfield about yc06.
If you guys want interesting then go to Luke Demi's xanga... if you want spiritual, go to Whitney's blog... don't expect a whole lot from this. just the basics ;).

Went to youth camp... we made it... there at least. Pretty much was really excited, saw peoples i knew (like Jared blake decked out in pink socks, Corey in fake black hair, Jennifer Snapp ect). Suddenly two men in black shirts and camoflauge pants with sunglasses and hats started talking to me. I didn't know what to do... should i just say 'daytime and run?' or should i try not to offend them. Instead I heard somebody say their name. 'Mr. Stickler and Jesse'. Yes, these two scary people were from Corning and I actually knew both of them. I was on the orange team... my team was: Grant Clark, Maureen McMullin, Karen Meiklejohn, Sean, Luke, Liz, Caitlyn, Corey, Caleb, Lang, Emily, KK, Phil and me. Good team!!! Thanks to all of you!! Rocked my world!

Got to know my team... though i knew most of them already. We did some games... didn't run into any trees... so it was pretty uneventful. We won at noodle sockey... we had the pink noodles so that was pretty sweet! That night the sermon was by Marty Machowski (sp?). Which was really good. I went over it again yesterday morning and it was a good time for my devotions.

Wednesday was the day we got 'the baby' hahahahaha.

But Wednesday August 2nd of 2006 will probably always be remembered as the day that Corey Blake ran into a tree! hahahahaha. Sorry Corey. ;-).

Thursday... oh thursday... it will always be remembered as the first day I ever rode on a bus! ;-). It was the first day of our missions... starting with that night, we had one hour shifts to stay up (I stayed up from 1 to 2 and nearly flipped out when Sean didn't come until the last minute... ;-). (I woke up at 6 and got ready for prayer meeting.. (I did this everymorning so this will be the only time it is mentioned)...). So, we listened to our seminars (I went to Assault on sin and then assault on scripture, both were amazing!). Perhaps I shall post my notes sometime (if that is what others would want ;-).
We had lunch... which i probably didn't eat a lot of. then got ready for our mission. yes our mission. of hiking for miles that seemed never to end. hahaha. here's a shout out to my team tho! You guys did an awesome job!! Couldn't have been more blessed with your care and support! We headed out there... did our competion sight... lost unfortaunatly, and i got hit in the foot by a water balloon (and it's on video, but it doesn't look very cool, lol). And poor Emily (who I especially give a shout out to) fell down the hill of competion sight... and bruised her whole leg... it hurt really really bad but she still was a trooper and got through just dandy!! ;-). You rock girl!

We headed out to the woods... Our team (led by our fearless wandering Grant Clark) made our way through the rocks and other random assorted piles of things that would be in the way of our (always) correct GPS path. We were almost to our first mission sight (*cough* so we though *cough*) when our team member Lang stepped on a huge hornets nest. He was stung five times and we needed to get him to a nurse. However, we had to decide on wether to go to our next mission sight or back. The fastest way to get help for Lang was back. Back we headed. We got back (carefully watching out for bees and making sure that Lang had more then enough bug spray). Here's a shout out to you Lang for hanging in there and being such a trooper!!!

Once he got taken care of, our team once again headed back out. That day we only got one mission done, but our team proved itself able to take any challenge!

I shall also add that we were all wearing pants and it was over a 100 degrees out.

We got back (after we found out our amazing GPS had been given the wrong coordinates). The sermon and worship that night was refreshing and though it was rather hot in the chapel it was still a very uplifting time! The sermon that night I believe was by Mr. Shorey and was about Thomas the believer! Who now, next to John is my favorite disciple. We all had our group discussions which was really neat since I found a whole bunch of ways I could be praying for my team members and leaders.

Friday proved itself a much cooler day ;-). The seminars I went to were Assault on the family (which was amazing!) and Assault on the church which was very interesting and applicable. God kind of encouraged me through Assault on the family to begin to start learning now how to be a good wife and mother...to be praying for my future husband though I don't know who he is... and also to be a better sister and daughter (Here's a shout out to the Smith family who God used in a huge way to impact my life this past camp!!!). Then missions. Yay!! ;-). We went up and down cliffs that were like this ./ and like ! crazy. Emily here's another shout out to you for being so dandy! Phil you were great at being such a great encourager and making sure that we didn't... well, die. Maureen thank you so much for your humble spirit in not complaining at all! Grant thank you for leading so fantastically!! Liz and Caitlyn were great about always having something funny to say and to make each one of us smile! Sean you were great at making sure that everyone was ok and having a good time. Luke you were the comic relief that everyone needed desperatly! KK was always there noticing when someone needed help or encouragement. Mrs. Meiklejohn was a trooper and never once slacked! Lang by the end of Friday was helping everyone else! Corey and Caleb, even though it was their first year knew more about hiking then all of us put togther (maybe... minus Grant). And once again sorry for the complaining heart I had that probably made life that much harder for everyone. Especially Sean and Phil who seemed to always be the ones around to hear my complaints.

We did survive. And we found a turtle and named it Rafael Rodriguez! However, it ran away (why... we'll never know ;-). Luke made a grand story about how a guy and girl lizard were evovled into turtles and we still don't know why it's okay for them to date and not us. hahaha. jst jk.

We got to ride in a jammed packed bus with Purple team... green team (I think) red team (maybe, I think) and several of the leaders (maybe even more, I don't remember). I just sat down next to Rachael and tried to rest for a little while.

We got back... almost missed out on dinner (which would have been awful!) but God is good and we ate! We got ready for the night session then headed over there (after other random events).

That night the worship was fantastic! God was meeting there in a big way!! The sermon was by Dave Harvey and on 'whereisyourheartat.com' or something of that sort. It was about guarding our hearts! It was grand! Then rootbear floats. I bought a coke and had a tasty cake. hahaha. Hung out with random people, but mostly dad. it was a lot of fun. However, I almost started crying when they told us we had to have all our stuff the next morning up at the tent so that we could be ready to leave. but please note. i did not. lol.

The next morning went by way too fast. But it was still a lot of fun! A lot of us did all our hair orange... the greatest was when Liz did her hair then her dad saw her... his face was priceless!! ;-). You guys all were great sports for doing your hair! (and for those of you didn't, remember, we did get points for it, lol).

The baptism was great! It's amazing to see how much God is working in everyones lives! (btw Smith family, that is when I was so touched by your togetherness as a family!).

There isn't much more to say. We had our last session. Said thank you to all the people who needed to be thanked. Had lunch together as a team... enocuraged one another (one of my most favotirest times as a team togther!) And then began to say goodbye. it was sad, but also encouraging that I had made so many friends, espeically the girls on my team, Elizabeth Shorey (who I might add is probably one of the coolest people in Covie Land), and many others!!

Hopefully I'll get to see all you corning wanna be's on the e-team eh? hahaha. I'll see yall around anyhow, maybe i'll come down sometime!

God bless everyone.

A saved sinner being sanctified by a saving Savior!

dell

ps. pics will come later!

2006-08-02T06:11:00.000-04:00

YOUTH CAMP 2006./././.
looks like they're gonna kill us... but we'll have fun!!! ;-).

peace out.

dell.

2006-07-31T10:06:00.000-04:00

Currently ListeningAnother Journal EntryBy BarlowGirlGreysee related

It's only two days away... aaaahhhh! that's insanely crazy!! haha.

I'm on the killer orange team. here's a shout out to yall!

I was swimming in the Rawleigh's pool the other day with some of my siblings and with Alex. We began talking (seeing as we are corning people) about youth camp 2006. We were bashing Khaki (since it's almost not a real color) and making fun ideas for grey (such as ducktape). Alex, being the guy he is began saying how he really needed to start working on his prophetic giftings and he went on and on then he just kinda said 'I'm seeing... orange.' he didn't know that anyone from Corning was on orange or that Sean was either. we all got a kick out of it... but we shall see. .

then again, orange and khaki might tie for last. hahahaha.

I'm calling you out Grey team! (that is for Jarred's amusment)

2006-07-25T11:40:00.000-04:00

Story of the week(end). ;-).

Saturday... I went and bought some new shoes (25 dollars).
Sunday... I played Ultimate Frisbee in my new shoes for a couple of hours
Monday... I went and worked out with Cassie... in my new shoes
Afterwards I went to the Rawleighs... in my new shoes
Then I went and played Tennis with Jessica... in my new shoes.
Suddenly! There was a huge blister on the back of my foot... and it still hurts and it's Tuesday. :-(.
The End.

I've been having a great week! How about yall?

2006-07-21T15:31:00.000-04:00

A new post... a new day... still as full of God's grace.
I went on a personal retreat today... it was filled with a time of prayer... thinking over my life... self examinaning questions... thought provoking answers.

"I, I am He who blots out your tansgressions, for My own sake I will not remember your sin." Isaiah 43:25

"I will remember their sins and lawless deeds no more." Jeremiah 31:34

"It was now about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour, while the sun's light failed. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus calling out with a loud voice said, "Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit!" And having said this he breathed His last." Luke 23:44-46

Those first two verses are possible because of what Jesus did on the cross! We are complete sinners in need of THE complete Savior! Because of Jesus perfect obedience in taking on human flesh... living a perfect life... then taking all of God's wrath reserved for our sin, we can now enter into His presence. 'And the curtain of the temple was torn in two.' That curtain was a huge thick curtain... but what was behind it was the 'holy of holies'. The curtain was torn in two... Jesus made it possible for us to enter into that covered by the blood of Jesus Christ!

"Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water." Hebrews 10:22

Our God is completely Sovereign over all of our lives... He knew before time and while He died on the cross of all we had done and what He was going to do and did for us! He thought of you when He died on that cross... He knew each and every one of us. He felt our pain... He experienced it all. So now, we can enter in with full assurance!!! Our hearts are sprinkled clean! Oh, to know that our evil hearts are clean by the blood of the perfect lamb of God!! To know we no longer have to deal with guilt (an evil conscience) because of what Christ did! He died, was was crucified and now because of His death, we live again!!

"Oh the depth of the riches and widom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and how inscrutable His ways." Romans 11:33

Why He did it was a mystery... but we do know that He did it for His own glory... and for our good!! What a loving God!! We did not deserve anything but the complete wrath of God and hell for all eternity. But we live! We breath through the Spirit in us! We will live in Paradise with our Father forever! He is Sovereign over all!!!

Living life knowing I, a complete sinner, have THE complete Savior!

dell

2006-07-20T14:50:00.000-04:00

Are you on the look out for Youth Camp 2006?????

Well you should be!

All are welcome

You'll have fun... we promise...

See ya there!!!

Pretty much really excited about Youth Camp 2006!!!! Planning on having pink hair the first day... hehehe... but mostly praying that God would be at work in everybody's heart!! That this camp would be focused on the cross and grace and not ourselves!
Here's a shout out to my dad who's not only making this possible for me and my siblings to go... but is also coming himself!!
A shout out to yall who are coming!! Can't wait to see you there!!!
Thanks for all of you guys who have put this together!!! May God bless you as I am sure we will be blessed by all of your efforts to make this a God glorifying camp!
And a shout out to all you Corning peoples who are coming!!! Jess, Alex, Jarred, Dem, Tai, Ben, Jenn, Whitney, KK, Anna, Rachael, Daniel, Joy, and me!! lol. I'm praying for all of you guys!!
And a quick shout out to my team last year and all the new people I met!! You guys rocked my world and made camp that much more fun and exciting!!

YOUTH CAMP.... say it... 'Hoorah!' lol.

peace out.
dell

2006-07-17T20:45:00.000-04:00

A Window into my life... ;-)

This is my bed

My beautiful house!

The side door (the one friends use and the ups man)

The living room (where our late nights usually are spent)

Down stairs we go...

My bed! Yay!

This is a post mostly celebrating the finishing of my room downstairs! Thanks to all of you guys who helped complete it!

I love my house that I'm living in... I love Corning... I love the fact that God has placed me here! I'm so glad that God has given me a small taste of Home right here in Corning.

Last night I went over with Cassie to the Meiklejohns (she's watching their house) and it was just a great time to hang out and have Biblical fellowship. (hehe... and some girl time). It started off with Wendy's... no soda... lol. Then we got there... started 'You've Got Mail' which i thought was rather amusing... hope it doesn't happen to me, lol. Then we watched The Wedding Planner (which I enjoy a lot)... and admist it all, plenty of chocolate 'awws' and 'oohhs' and giggles. Afterwards (around 12:30) we went up to bed... I slept on the floor of the guest bedroom and Cassie slept in the bed (and we closed the doors so that the dumb pets wouldn't bother us). We were lying there for a little bit when I realized how hot it was and how much I wanted a different blanket when Cassie asked if I would want a different blanket... I said yes... then she blinded me by turning on the light! We got resituated. Then we talked since we were wide awake... crazy. lol. We don't know when we went to sleep, but it was at least 1:30.WHICH IS CRAZY, because we got up at 6:30 to go work out at the Y... and we did... it was crazy... hehehe. but a lot of fun! Cassie and I just talked about everything going on in my life... she was so encouraging! She completely understood everything. Cassie you're my hero!
'To chocolate or not to chocolate?'
'Is there any question?'
hahaha... good times Cassie!!

peace out.
dell

2006-07-15T07:28:00.000-04:00

Funny story of the month (maybe even the year...).

One night, I was outside lying down on my hammock, I looked up at the beautiful stars... they were very bright and very beautiful. It was fantastic. However, the next night (at around 10:30) I was extremely tired, but I wanted to go outside because it was cooler out there. So I went outside and laid down on my hammock and looked up to the sky, expecting to see stars (now keep in mind I am very tired...). I laid out there for a while expecting that once the porch light turned off I would be able to see them... but alas and alack this was not the case. So, still extremely tired, I went inside and sat down on the blue couch... and after a minute of sitting there with a confused look on my face I see PJ's on the other couch across from me.
"Hey sixteen hundred" I call him by his smart name since he got a 1600 on his SATS. "How come I could see the stars last night and I can't see them tonight?" Remember... I'm very tired...
"Clouds." Was PJ's reply.
"No... not the clouds... the stars..." PJ gives me the look of 'you're completely crazy'
"The clouds..." He replies letting me know I'm a complete idiot for not knowing.
Finally I get it. The clouds cover the stars at night. ooooooooohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.

That was probably three weeks ago (maybe even more) and everybody still makes fun of me for it... lol.

peace out.
dell

2006-07-13T10:46:00.000-04:00

YSOS
Last night we had Y S.O.S (Youth Seeing Our Savior). It started out with scary stories of people having the dogs down the street chase their cars and Nicole had something happen to her car (i'm not exactly sure, but we have a big peice of their car in our van). Then we played Taboo (guys against girls). My team won ;-). Jarred then led us in worship (which was amazing!) We sang 'Haven't You Been Good' 'You Are My King' and 'Light Of The World' (one of my favoritest songs ever). Then group discussion! We read Chapter 11 for In Light Of Eternity... it was really tear wrenchign (I can't say sad really...). But it was about Randy Alcorn and a friend of his, Jerry, and how they grew up together and how they were inseperable, then Jerry got cancer and it was just a great story of how death isn't the end for our friendships but just an interruption... it was great. Anyhow, here are some of my notes. And we also talked about what we thought about our lives and what we'd be doing with our lives since in the chapter Randy talked about 'dreaming loftier dreams'.

In light of Eternity. Chapter 11.
He calls us to be apart of what He’s doing. To live lives according to His purposes. Passionately strive for that. Get a vision for God’s purposes in life. Our dreams should line up with His plan.
We can do anything honorable for the glory of God
Our hearts should burn for doing what God wants
It’s amazing… He wants to use our lives.
We need to dream loftier dreams. Our desires should glorify God. If we trust in God with our lives, we will bear fruit of growth.
“When I think of my life – what goes through my mind?”
No matter what we do in life, we can honor God with all we do.
Dream – whatever that looks like – connect it to and motivate it by the glory of God.
Serving Jesus is the greatest thing on earth.
What are we looking forward to about Heaven?
Friendships that go on forever… for us, death is only an interruption… in Heaven our friendships will last for eternity. We are brothers in an eternal sense.
Do I fear death? I can’t wait to see Jesus.

Then, everybody sang happy birthday for the July b-days (Mrs. Rawliegh, Beth, Jarred, Tiffany (Nicole's sister), and me). CAKE (actually, I just got icecream, chocolate!). Then we ran around looking at the Polczynski's house (which is incredible, Tai, you've spent the night here so next time it's at your house! ;-). Nicole talked about one time when Chris called from a bus station when they were on their way to Colorado and how he said there were gangsters there and that they were scared... it was funny (for us at least).

Then we talked about youth camp!!!! Oh I cannot wait! 20 days! Then we pretty much headed home. I was really tired and fell asleep then came home walked into the house, then downstairs to my room... then I went to sleep in my clothes (I was to tired to change into my pajamas).
THE END. Hope yall enjoyed!

2006-07-11T17:50:00.000-04:00

These are notes from this past Sunday.

Death was no longer the end of life - it's the door to life for believers.
The disciples were in despair for death seemed to put out all hope. They had no hope. Their day changed with five simple words. "He is no longer here."
The resurrection changes everything.
The life changing trust of the resurrection is personal for us.
Why we life - the resurrection changes the reasons for why we live.

Must: Greek, Dae. Small word, big thing. It must happen because God has ordained it. This is God's unstoppable soverign plan.
He must but handed over to sinful men
He must die
He must rise from the dead
The unstoppable purposes are moving forward to this day.
When He saves us He saves us for a higher purpose.
Reality is what God is doing.
Sometimes being apart of God's purpose isn't seen by anybody but Him. But that's why we live. The resurrection changes the way we live. He is with us as we live for all my life. He is a risen Savior.

Was it necessary? According to God the Father... absolutely. It was His plan.

He contintues to walk with them (the disciples). They sturggle to believe it. He responds to their weak fatih with patience - He does the same for us. When we falter He does not abandom us. We fall often - it's not flattering - we take a step and fall. How wonderful to know that Christ lifts us up. We'll finally make it - but there's no possibility of doing it on our own.

The Savior empowers us to do what He calls us to do. 'And behold I am with you unto the end of the age'.

When our faith is weak - our heads are hanging low. The Savior and resurrection is shown through the word of God. Go to the word of God. Ask to have our eyes open and a fresh awareness of Him so our faith will grow strong.

The resurrection changes how we leave this life.
For those who don't believe death is despair.
Death is swallowed up in victory! (1Cor 15)
Death only takes time and time goes by
Something about death makes us face what we believe
But for the believer, it will be a day of peace - of joy. We have hope - Christ was raised from the dead.

There was a man (a pastor) who's wife had just died... he and his kids were going to her funeral where he was going to give the sermon. As they were driving along they stopped at a red light. In front of them was a huge truck and the sun was just right so that it's shadow stretched far off to the side. The man turning to his kids asked. "Which would you rather be hit by; the truck or it's shadow?" The children replied. "Its shadow of course... it doesn't hurt you." The man smiled and nodded at the simple truth.
"That's what death is like for us. Jesus took the truck... we only have the shadow. Because of that this isn't the end for mommy. She's in Heaven, and someday, we'll be able to see her".

We don't get the truck. We've only got the Shadow. May the Lord open our eyes and may the Lord put a burning in our hearts. He is with us. He is alive and one day we will see Him face to face.

~Hope everyone was blessed~

2006-07-08T09:12:00.000-04:00

last night I went on my first formal date...

with my daddy!!

The dress is from Jess... thanks so much! I love it!!

I'm sticking out my tongue a little in this one... but you can see the absolutely ridiculous shoes in this picture... whoever invented high heels probably needs to be shot. Horrible and totally unpracticle idea!

Dad's making sure I don't fall and die with those shoes on....

We went to Three Birds on Market Street... I got some sort of steak that was rather spicy... but good... the mash potatoes were incredible, but the cheese cake was amazing!!!
So proof that high heeled shoes are stupid... half way through the meal I had to go to the bathroom... and the restroom was upstairs... I leave and make it up the stairs okay... then I'm coming down and I nearly fell and died with those shoes on... I felt so stupid but relieved that I didn't actually fall... that would have been incredibly embarrasing!!
And we came home and watched Beauty and the Beast... a gift from my friend Joe St. Angelo... good times!

Anyhow... peace out. ;-)

dell

ps. For those going to youth camp 2006 what seminars are you going to on Thursday and Friday...???

2006-07-05T10:13:00.000-04:00

Sixteen... most people would consider that a cool age to be... but to me... since it's where God wants me to be that's where I'm supposed to be, whether I like it or not. Sixteen... I think that's the perfect age to simply cling to the cross... nothing else. I need to let go of my dreams, my plans, my wants and desires, let Christ have them and continue to live life satisfied with whatever He's got planned.
Yes, this is something I've been struggling with. Something that God has been trying to get my attention about for a long time. And through many different things going on in my life, He now has. But it's been difficult to keep growing... actually to grow at all.
My little brother who's just started crawling was in the livingroom this morning and I was watching him while doing my devotions. He suddenly started crawling away but since I didn't want him in the next room because I wouldn't be able to see him I called out his name. He stopped, sat up and looked over at me... it was a sad look, as if in he wanted to come but wouldn't because he really did want to go on into that next room. About three times that happened, each time he got a little further away... sit up... look desperatly at me as if he really wanted to come but never started to actually move toward me... then he would begin crawling on.
Finally it kind of dawned on me that that's what it was like with me. I had for a long time wanted to grow in my spiritual life but it didn't seem like I was going anywhere. I never took that first step... all I had done was sit there and desperatly look on... then whenever I had the want to go my own way there was no second thoughts.
I need to make those steps. And only by God's grace though can that happen. I could use prayer... I'm humbled by that request because it shows exactly how much in need I am... but I do need it. Thanks everyone. By God's grace alone.

dell

2006-07-02T22:00:00.000-04:00

Sweet Sixteen...

I got to drive today...

Lot's and lots of flowers (especially my favorites, roses and lilies)

Campfires/smores

LONG BASEBALL game

Randomness.

over and out.

Birthday morning... all my flowers... and my precious gift

Rubia

2006-06-28T17:00:00.000-04:00

Four days until Canada day.

I've got five days till sweet sixteen.

I've got like five weeks till YC06.

Chris Adam and Michael have three days until Colorado.

I've got all of my life and more to know Christ!

Living life knowing that Christ lived then laid down His life so that I could live.

So Here I Am

Verse 1
This world is slipping from my feet
And I feel as if in defeat
All the plans I've made for my life
Are slipping from my sight
I'm struggling to keep a hold
Then suddenly I am told
That Christ is in control
I have to let go...

Bridge
I'm praying to You
Cause You will get me through
I'm on my knees
Offering all of me

Chorus
So here I am
Pledging my heart to Your plan
Here I amTrusting in You I stand
Because no power below or above
Can change Your plan of love
So here I am

Verse 2
I've held on to this dream so long
I can't bear to think of it gone
Then it gently waves goodbye
And I stand in these tears I cry
Then I hear a whisper in my ear
Telling me there's nothing to fear
Christ knows what's best for me
So I let go...to what I can't see

2006-06-27T13:45:00.000-04:00

They're leaving tomorrow...

2006-06-23T09:53:00.000-04:00

PARTY!!

Having a party over at Denison Park!!! ;)

Then ice cream fellowship time (instead of ice cream social, lol).

AND THEN... don't know yet... something cool.

That's about all I got.

p.e.a.c.e o.u.t. g.a.n.g.m.i.l.l.s.

2006-06-21T17:16:00.000-04:00

Seven days... until friends leave...

Twelve days... until sweet sixteen...

42 days... until YC06...

It's all bittersweet...

God is good through it all...

2006-06-18T06:41:00.000-04:00

EMMA IS HOME!
and that is truly a miracle! Emma and her brother and sister (five yrs old and 2 yrs old) got into their van which had just arrived back from grocery shopping and it started going backwards... Emma either fell out or jumped out and was run over by the front tire... fortuanatly she was flat when it rolled over her... she was inches away from a tree... and she landed on the only grass spot (God's hand) and if the tire had rolled over any other part of her body it would have been way worse. However... she was taken to the hospital, then airlifted to Rochester... she got there and the doctors said her liver was in bad shape... (on a scale from one to five and five beeing 'no more liver' her's was a four). But since she was responding so well they did not do surgery... then her liver ruptered... but she still was responding very well (in fact she kept asking for water and food and when her mom explained the situation to her she would wait five minutes then say 'I asked for water') so the doctors said she could go home... however she is very delicate and has to move very slowly for quiet a while... but overall it truly is amazing that she didn't have surgery and that I'm going to see her in a little bit at church!!! Our God is an awesome God!! Thank you all for everyone of your prayers... you have no idea how blessed we all are!!!! Everyone there in Massachussetts, Philly, PA, GA, NY, Canada, FL and NY (and any others I missed, I'm not sure how fast this news spread) Thank you! It is so great how God placed His hand on Emma's life and also had so many people come together from all over to pray for her! Please keep praying for a fast recover (even though so far it's been a remarkable one) but this is something to thank God for! Praise our Sovereign God for He is mighty holy and on top of that... loving! Thank You God!

peace out.

2006-06-12T16:26:00.000-04:00

Hey... a little friend of mine, Emma Efthimiou was run over by their van today, I've heard different stories of how it happened but I don't know. Right now she's in the hospital and all in all I don't know a whole lot. I know she has bruised lungs, a scratched or cut liver, and maybe even internal bleeding. Please keep her in your prayers! I love her so much.

thank you all

Father I don't understand
Why has this hapened to my friend?
Why would You let this happen?
Will she be okay in the end?

These tears I shed for my little friend
Is a message to You
In Your decision her life depends
Only You can pull her through

Just yesterday she was drawing pictures
Just yesterday during worship I saw her stand
I can still see her pretty features
I can still feel her holding my hand

Please let her be okay
I know in Your hands is her destiny
I only ask that she would not feel pain
And that she would come back okay

2006-06-08T15:38:00.000-04:00

Great.
Yesterday was fantastic... lol. It started out completely normal (except for the fact that a friend of mine called at 6:30 to see if we could get together) so we hung out for a while which was lots of fun until just about 11. Then lets see... played basketball... took a nap... got up... cleaned up the kitchen... then I took out the trash... that's right, I took out the trash... THEN, I took two steps out the door and swung the trash bag behind me, something scraped my leg... I looked down thinking it probably wasn't that big of a deal. HOWEVER, all I could see was this gash in my leg with blood gushing out. Pain immediately surged through my leg. I called out for mom, she came running out. My little brother Gabriel stood lookign on confused but not worried. Mom held the cut called out for Jarred, but he didn't hear. Mom grabbed a clean blue sheet from the gazebo where it had been hanging it up to dry. I held it over the bleeding cut. Jarred came out, mom got some butterfuly stitches. THis time Jarred got to hold the cut shut and mom butterfly stitched it . And I shall let all know that I did not once cry. Then mom said I should call dad... I did, told him then made the decision that we should probably go to the ER... so off mom and I went (along with little brother Gabriel). Oh, and I give extra Biblical Masculinity points to Jarred for helping carry me out to the car.
Mom and I got there, I wanted crutches to get in the hospital, but mom got me a wheel chair... it was cool after I stopped feeling like some old person. I went to the same ER room as I did last time to get my stitches in my finger... and stitches it was for my leg... dang. So, I got five shots to numb it (I hate needles with a vengence) then five stitches to stitch it up. The doctor bandaged it up, then sent me home with some of my leg still numb.
So, anyhow, I'm still alive... but I figured that was interesting so I posted about it. Talk to yall later
Peace Out

2006-05-30T13:59:00.000-04:00

Capture the flag... ah yes, that is what we played yesterday for our cookout! The teams were: Shermon, Michael, Adam, Alex, Misha, Benjamin, Isaac, Tai and myself versus Chris, Jarred, Beth, Melony, Andrew, Ben, Mariah, Gideon and Mattea (I believe that's everybody).

The first game Alex and I were talking to the 'enemy' for the majority and then they took advantage of that and got our flag... hmm. Next game was a bit more serious... and what do ya know... we won! I got to carry the flag back to our side which was magnificant fun! Next game... well, I got captured pretty quick

(alas and alack) and then I was in jail for the rest of the game along with Michael and Alex. I tried so hard to convice the 'enemy' that they should let us go... but it did not happen as I would have liked... lol. Then before the game ended the Rawlieghs (Alex and Beth) had to head out...

I raced back to our side and Adam and I grabbed the pink flag and walked off victoriously! Then we burned the yellow flag... ('the enemies' flag). There were many fun moments of singing 'bananas unite' and many scraped up knees and legs and elbows (and a rather bruised side and I know my sister hurt her ankle a bit) all turned our well! While in jail Alex Michael and I all had water bottles and kept toasting to different things such as; our team, pink, being in jail ect.
Good times.

So... there were many more exciting things that happened... but I'm done for now!

dell

2006-05-24T20:37:00.000-04:00

Here are some random pictures. It's all I got for now.

Give yourself time to think

Living life as if tomorrow was gonna be the end
Because we never know if it will be or not
We never know what's gonna happen around the next bend
And we cannot expect another day to arrive... so stop!
Think about what you're doing and say to yourself
Wether or not you'll regret it if it's the last think you do
And ask yourself wether or not your just thinking of yourself
Give your life to God or you'll probably be sent to your doom!

Wake up! Give yourself time to think
Wether or not this should be the life to lead
Give it up if it's not gonna get you through that last door
Give it up if it's not gonna provide for eternity and more!

Living life as if tomorrow was gonna end
But now there's not gonna be any fear of leaving this world
And because of this our faith we're gonna defend
Knowing that we're only getting to Heaven cuz of the Word
So get up! We're living life knowing that it's gonna be great next time we wake up
Cuz God is in control of all our mistakes and it's gonna work for our good
And even though this world so often erupts
Let's go on and keep living even if it sometimes feels as if we shouldn't

o.u.t.....

2006-05-20T12:38:00.000-04:00

Family Night

Yesterday I took my almost two year old brother outside to swing around in the yard. It was a bit wet, but still fairly nice out. First I just chased him around then I picked him up and started swinging him around. He loved it. For probably 45 minutes to an hour I was constantly swinging him around and around, then setting him down... he was so dizzy he would often fall then look up to the sky. After a while, big sister got quite dizzy herself adn put him down... he wasn't so excited about that.

When we finished playing we went inside and we were informed that the whole family was going to dunkin donuts for a family night. Off we went. We got there as everyone else ordered Jarred and Gabriel sat down at a table so that they could amuse themselves.
We ordered then sat down all together

The donuts were gotten and before I could even get a picture of them together they were snagged up. alas ;)

My little brother was extremely excited about all the donuts he was able to eat... this was only his first.

Here's Jarred looking pretty... scary... hmmm...

Here's a picture of me and my little sister Neeki (who's almost 10).

This is a picture of my mom and little brother Gabriel

This was one of Gabriel's favorite games... try to give dad a high five... while dad was moving... haha... he finally won!

Okay... so i absolutely love this picture!! I thought it was completly hilarious!!
Then we went across the street so Jarred could get his wiffle ball bat (that he's been begging for since he broke his other one...)

Then off to home... to play some wiffle ball... then to sit around and read Beric the Briton until 11 o'clock, talked with mum till like 12 o'clock then watched a movie till 1:30... then we went to bed.

I'm done yall! Have a great day!!
dell