12 Blessings in 2013: The Ultimate iPhone Dump

Now that we've established I've been AWOL for most of 2013, I thought I would catch you up by way of the most epic iPhone Dump of all time.

Here you have it - The last year of my life summed up in 12 iPhone snapshots:

January - Our first Bridal show of the Harrison wedding season! This show turned out to be a major success. Sarah found most of her vendors this day. And to think, just a couple years ago, I had her convinced I knew the Backstreet Boys personally. Oops.

February - One Saturday in February, I went rogue and drove to Knoxville to surprise my camp family at a D-Now weekend. Only Gage was in on the secret. The most perfect part of this situation was I had just attended the funeral of a high school friend earlier that day. Oh, did these guys ever minister to me that day. I don't think they even knew.

March - This photo was snapped a the Clark County Lincoln Day Dinner. I was invited to attend as the guest of my mentor and State Representative, Donna Mayfield. Precious, isn't she? I think she looks like Laura Bush a little. Anyway, Donna introduced me to some potential employers, and the next month BAM! I'm employed.

April - This may have been the best month of the whole year. I accepted my first big girl job, celebrated my last event as a College Republican with my favorite friends ever, and took the last final exam of my college career. The best day in April, though, was going to Louisville with my little sister to see Needtobreathe live. 5th row seats, y'all. Best show I've ever seen.

May - I received my college degree in May 2013. Pretty big deal, huh? I didn't go to graduation, but I did stop by the Phi Mansion one last time where I grabbed a picture of my sophomore sorority composite photo. Long hair AND a brunette?! I hardly recognize myself!

June - In June, I was fortunate to celebrate in the marriage of my friend and sister, Kristen Werling (now Haag!) to a wonderful, god fearing man named Michael. This day was extra special for me, because I was able to watch Kristen as she came to know Jesus, grew in her faith, and eventually met Michael. The Lord is mighty, indeed. These two are going to do incredible things in the name of Jesus.

July - What a bittersweet month July was for me. I worked on a special election for a wonderful candidate. We fought our hearts out, but did not emerge victorious. Its never easy to lose; working so hard toward something, then finding in the end it amounted to nothing. However, it was an incredible learning experience and a great opportunity to make lots of new friends. I wouldn't take it back for a second!

August - The first Saturday in August brought the most exciting political event Kentucky has to offer. Every year, the tiny town of Fancy Farm Kentucky holds the largest political picnic in the country. Hundreds upon hundreds of Kentucky voters gather on the lawn of St. Jerome's Catholic church to partake in pulled pork, mutton, and political speeches filled with red meat. It. Is. Awesome. Genia and I arrived on site at 4 AM to protect the seats of our republican supporters who would arrive later. We're a pretty intimidating security team, don't you think?

September - Late September brought an impromptu trip to our other home in West Tennessee. There's no therapy like good food, sweet family, and afternoons on the dock.

October - October is the month of birthdays in my family; Something about those frigid winters, I'm told. My sister and I have our birthdays exactly one week apart. I had a great time celebrating Haley's 21st with her girlfriends from school!

November - November was an exercise in humility. After my car accident, I needed a lot of help during my recovery - those crutches are killer. I was so grateful for the bonding time it allowed with my sweet Papa. We ate cracker barrel 4 days in a row in that first week. The man sure does love some blackberry pancakes with his whipped cream. Grin.

December - I got to spend Christmas eve with my Daddy this year. For those who know me, you are aware how precious this time is. He was having a good day that day. Father is so gracious.

I hope you feel a little more caught up now! I have an exciting surprise coming very, very soon!

Until next time, sweet things!

Stranded at the Drive In...

Try telling me you didn't sing the rest of that. I won't believe you.

I'm not actually stranded at a drive in. I am, however, stranded in Teays Landing, WV. Oh, the irony. Long story short, it came a blizzard while I was returning from a brief stint in DC, and given my track record with driving in winter weather (alright, driving in general), I couldn't risk it. I holed up in a Holiday Inn off the interstate, had a swanky steak dinner for one, and have settled into a pretty sweet king sized bed. It could be worse...

There are lots of things I'd like to share, but I'll save that for later. Right now, I would like to share an exciting surprise with you guys.

Thanks to the generosity of B&H Publishers, from now until January 10th, you can download most of Beth Moore's books to your e-reader of choice at no cost.

That's right ladies.
Endless Beth, for free. (Did you read that in a Rebel-Wilson-in-Bridesmaids voice? Because thats how I wrote it.)

Check out my iBooks library right now...totally stocked.

If you've never read Beth, you're missing out on some of the most sound Biblical teaching I've encountered in this life. The woman is anointed, plain and simple. For a Beth newbie, I HIGHLY recommend Breaking Free. The Lord used it to bring powerful healing to my life 3 years ago. Personally, I'm looking forward to starting the year with When Godly People Do Ungodly Things. At this point in my life, I can relate to the title alone all too well. How's that for transparency, girls? Grin.

I suppose its about time I turned out the lights and rested up for the second leg of my journey home. Fingers crossed I can get out of here tomorrow. Fingers double crossed I can sleep through the sounds of a man sawing logs in the next room. Can't make this stuff up, folks...

I don't want to give too many secrets away, but check back here soon. You should be seeing a lot more out of me in the coming year.

Sleep tight, my friends.

Grace on Grace

When our world gets rocked, it happens so quickly. 

Last Saturday, I finished working a fundraiser and decided to run across town to pick up a birthday present for my sister. In an instant, the airbag in my Jeep exploded in my face. Smoke. Screams. Fear. 

I'm not sure how it happened. I know it was my fault. I struggle to remember how I hit another car so hard and so fast, with enough force to destroy my car and push it into two others. 

At this point, I must assure you that I am ok. I walked away with cuts, scrapes and a broken foot; thankfully, my injuries were the worst of anyone involved. Looking back on the photos, I can see how very, very lucky I was to walk away. 

The Lord has been so gracious to provide all I could need following the accident. I am so grateful to live close to my family. I have spent the week in my old room at my parent's house. My grandfather and my mom have chauffeured me all over town in the last week, and will continue to do so until I am cleared to drive again (hopefully the end of the week. fingers crossed!) 

If you've been praying, allow my to express my sincere gratitude. If you are one who visited, called, or went out of your way to provide a ride, I want to thank you as well. If nothing else, I have learned how incredibly blessed I am by those who love me. 

Continue to lift me up in prayer as I return to work this week. I need the energy to give everything I have, every second of every day. I have quite a bit of ground to make up. I should probably go ahead and get moving on that...

Let me know how I can lift you up in prayer this week!

One More Time

For nearly a year, I've been silent. I suppose that's fitting.

I haven't had much to say. I haven't heard much in the last year. I have no one to blame for this but myself. The silence has begun to take its toll. 

I'm but a few minutes shy of my 23rd birthday. Looking back, my 22nd year has likely been the most spiritually dark of my life. I need to go back to where I was when I was near Him. When we walked together. When I ached for His presence and couldn't take a step unless He walked beside me. 

May 23 bring a year filled to the measure of every bit of the abundant life Christ can offer. May 22 never be seen again.

The War in My Mind

I'm forgetful.

I'm the kind of person who should own stock in post it notes. I single handedly keep 3M in business. I'm always late, and a little on the messy side. There are 51 different reminder alerts set on my phone at this moment. I'm also the person who read your email, but probably forgot to respond. Sue me.

I'm also visual. These are all little tricks I've learned along the way to help me be a little less on the scattered side. I decided to put it to good use tonight. Exhibit A:

I am my Beloved's, and his desires are for Me. -Song of Songs 7:10 (emphasis mine)

Where do you find your value? I asked myself this very question this afternoon after a trip to the gym. I'm know to take my diet and exercise regimen overboard. Subconsciously, I have a tendency to let my jean size define me.

I think women are just wired that way, but insecurity is a battle we must fight DAILY, and we have to hit it head on. As I often remind my students, scripture is our only offensive weapon against the Satan's lies. This scripture is dear to me, as it reminds me my Bridegroom desires me just as I am. There's no weight limit at the foot of the cross.

So I put my sword in two strategic places: the mirror and the refrigerator. Two key places the war is waged.

You are beautiful. He desires you so, just as you are.

22 Lessons from 22

I've never been the birthday kind.

They're a hassle and a pain in my opinion. Plus, I hate fall (don't judge me), and since my birthday falls smack in the middle of my least favorite season, I'm not usually anxious for the time to come. My 22nd birthday came this past Monday, and for the first time in my life, I enjoyed the heck out of it.

Mom and Duane surprised me by flying in to spend it with me. We went shopping, ate Japanese, and smoked cigars (man points!). Mostly, the company of loving, familiar faces made the day special. It meant more than I can say to know they were willing to do something so extravagant for me. My heart sings at the thought.

Since I'm in a celebratory mood, I though I would share 22 life lessons I have learned by age 22. Enjoy!

1. There is no church, no pastor, no book that can substitute for daily time spent in the Bible and in prayer. Time spent with Father is the only thing in life that satisfies.
2. Mamas and sisters make the best friends.
3. Make the effort to verbally encourage others every chance you get. Everyone needs to know they are valued and appreciated.
4. Show grace. You never know when you'll need someone to do the same for you..
5. Some people may do nothing but hurt you. If they are in your life for no other reason than to teach you how to forgive, they are valuable.
6. Father radically loves his children the same, whether billionaire, muslim, homeless, gay, straight, pastor, or crack addict. You are no more or less valuable in his eyes than the next.
7. Pray more than you complain.
8. Fight insecurity by daily reminding yourself of your worth in Christ's eyes (Song of Solomon 7:10). Preach the gospel to yourself.
9.God's wrath was completely satisfied in the shed blood of Christ. Stop clinging to your guilt. The cross was enough.
10. The best memories are spontaneous.
11. Fortune favors the brave.
12. The girl worth having waits for no one. (F. Scott Fitzgerald)
13. You can't truly fathom grace until you've experienced it.
14. There is no substitute for your own personal testimony of the love of Christ.
15. Take care of yourself. Eat well, exercise regularly, take vitamins daily, break down and see a doctor when necessary.
16. Asking for help breeds humility.
17. You never need a "good excuse" to wear cowboy boots.
18. Be brave enough to share your mistakes, your faults, and your stories. Someone may need to hear them, and it just might make them brave too. (Thanks, Liz)
19. Phone calls are better than text messages. Make time to call your those you love, especially your grandparents.
20. Don't waste time comparing yourself to others. The only useful comparison is to the person you used to be.
21. Family doesn't stop at blood relatives. Father redeems broken things. (Love you, Duane)
22. Whatever you do, do it passionately.

Fall Friendship Swap

I have never, EVER participated in a blog swap of any kind. They totally intimidate me. But when Kristin at Vignettes, I decided to be adventurous and try something new.

I am certianly glad I did! I was paired with the lovely Shelia over at The Failte House. Aside from being an adorable fellow Floridian, the girl is a wicked awesome photographer. So jealous. Check out the awesome gift bag she sent my way-

I totally lucked out! Shelia sent a super cute heart that is decorating my kitchen, along with fabulous pumpkin scents, a to do list pad (I'll be using the heck out of that), and super cute note cards. Her own card is now being displayed with the others I've recieved on the top of my fridge. Snail mail is the best.

Last but not least is my very favorite part of the package. Check out the most adorable handmade headband on earth.

This is how the headband makes me feel:

Seriously, I may never take it off. It supplements the poof SO well.

Thank you Shelia! You made my day!

Three Cheers for Friday!!

I still don't know why Friday is so much fun. I have to get up at 6:30 to work in Daytona Beach tomorrow. Blah.

Alas, adulthood will not steal my joy. Friday still has a little bit of magic, even if the weekend is still 24 hours away.

1. Today, I finished the first season of my newest obsession (read: total time suck) that is Pretty Little Liars. How did I miss out for so long?? Maybe because I haven't turned on a TV in years (only a mild exaggeration, I swear). Laaaaame. Anyway, I cannot get enough of pseudo soap opera. Its like a tamer version of Criminal Minds, and doesn't leave me hiding under the covers at the end of the night. Sometimes, anyway.

If you have any productivity left in you, for pete's sake DON'T DO IT. But if you're lame like me, I would highly recommend picking up the first season, like, yesterday.  Three cheers for junk TV!!!

2. This morning, my sweet Mama sent me a 40% of your entire purchase coupon for Ann Taylor Loft. My heart was happy, until I realized I just put myself on a budget not even 24 hours ago.  But guess what sweet friends...I refrained. I didn't set foot in the heaven on earth that is the Loft. This is a feat and a half for me. Three Cheers for fiscal responsibility!!

3.  This one is the best of all. I got the most epic phone call of my life yesterday from my former bunk mate, a one miss Sarah Hiser.

MY FRIENDS ARE COMING TO VISIT MEEEEE!!!

Yes people, I swear I have friends. They're passing through Jax on Sunday and they are all mine for the day. More to come on this one, but I can't even wait for them to get here.

Three cheers for human contact. Three cheers for sweet mohawks. Three cheers for the Lord's tender way of blessing the snot out of his babies with little things like love from home.

Somewhere Before Contented Peace

Its about time I write something that doesn't include Mitt Romney's name (the first sentence doesn't count, right?)

I'm up late again, and I've been thumbing through old photos. Summer 2011 is my happy place. Its no surprise I landed there on a night like this; a night I can't help but feel something is missing. Maybe its the loneliness talking. Too many nights spent cleaning one's apartment in a strange city can quickly lead to some unwanted soul searching.

Why was I so happy then? That question is answered before I finish writing it. Summer 2011 was a summer spent in total harmony with Father's will, in the company of believers who loved and encouraged me in a way I had never experienced. It was a summer of pouring out, of loving on strangers as though they were my own children (I don't refer to my students as "my babies" for nothing). It was a summer of healing; a summer of falling in love with a King who had pursued my heart for so long. This isn't a major newsflash. Anyone who has kept up with my journey knows exactly what went down that summer.

I suppose the better question is why I keep looking back; why am I searching for that feeling that overwhelmed my heart just a year ago? How do I find myself in the midst of my dream, yet looking back on a sleepless summer full of sweat, tears and breaking?

There's a question I don't have an answer for. I can tell you this though...I SO miss ministry. Don't think I'm wishing my time in this world away. My heart is just longing for something deeper.

Something like this day. I can't tell you how long I fought these kids to accomplish this task. Lap sit was a simple filler game, but I never anticipated the conflict it would bring. Students were uncomfortable with the idea of sitting on a stranger's lap, if only for the sake of a trust exercise.I should have known better...middle schoolers:)

After quite the stern lecture on maturity from yours truly (not my finest hour), I asked students who weren't mature enough to participate to step out and encourage those who were willing to give the exercise a go. Needless to say, they all participated, and they did it!! In a circle, my students sat on the lap of the person behind them, while providing a seat to the person in front of them. I don't know much about physics, but I do know that the weight is supported by the entire group easily. Below, you'll see my babies sitting in a circle for the entirety of "Jesus Loves Me". The interpretive dance was my doing. Grin.

Where does this feeling come from? Is it the high of camp, or simply the peace of doing life the way it was meant to be lived, smack in the middle of Father's will? I don't know where that contentment comes from, but believe you me, I'm searching furiously. Any directions would be greatly appreciated...

There's No Place Like Home...

I never though I would consider any place but Winchester, KY my home. In most ways, it remains home to me, but at the end of my South Florida adventure, I told one of my chapter chairman I was headed back "home", referring, of course, to Jacksonville. I was a little shocked to hear such a thing out of my own mouth. But as soon as I walked through the door of my one bedroom apartment and settled into my bed for a post road trip nap, I was overwhelmed with that comforting familiarity of being home. It may not be Winchester, but I'm finding a little piece of home in Jacksonville, and I can't thank the Lord enough for that sense of peace that I know could only have come from him. Father loves to spoil his girls like that:)

Speaking of being spoiled, his hand was ALL OVER this trip. I've picked up at least 4 awesome new chapters this week, and I'm super excited to work with Chairman who are VERY enthusiastic about Operation Red November. There were a few downsides, though. I've now learned exactly why I wasn't placed in Miami: I'm blonde, and the only Spanish word I know is "taco" (my mother would argue this point).

The chapters in Miami treated me like a princess; quite honestly I think they were under the impression I am wayyyy more important than I actually am. Far be it from me to break that news. Grin.

They scored me a ticket to the Univision Forum at the University of Miami. If you aren't familiar with Univision (which I wasn't until Wednesday night), they are kind of the MSNBC of the Latino community. I'm told Mitt was hit with some pretty tough questions (none of which I followed, as they were asked in Spanish. Once again, I kick myself for not taking it in High School. Sorry Mom.), but I was totally impressed with his answers, particularly when it came to immigration...no doubt a tough subject with this community.

On Thursday, I got to speak at the Florida International University CR General Meeting. For a strongly left leaning community, I was extremely impressed by the turnout. Check out these awesome FIU CRs: 

Florida International University College Republican General Meeting

So now I'm back in Jax, soaking up the next 12 hours worth of time off. I can;t complain though; I count myself unbelievably lucky to have a job doing something I love so, so much. My evening looks a little something like this:

I've given into the PLL hype, with Southern Living and my favorite hot tea to boot.

Michael Buble Pandora. Swoon.

At first glance, I have all the makings of a romantic evening...alone. I ain't mad at it.

Precious friends, I'm off to check out the hype that is Pretty Little Liars. Until next time...

Going Rogue

Well friends, things just got real interesting down here in Jax.

Its complicated. I really should keep my mouth shut on this one. Shocker...I really can do that when absolutely necessary. Grin.

All you need to know is that I had an Elle Woods in a bunny suit on a treadmill moment a few nights ago. If you're confused, allow me to refresh your memory.



Back off silly boys who think blonde hair means zero brain capacity. Mama is going rogue. Starting early tomorrow morning, I'm pulling out of my driveway and hitting every College Republican chapter on the east coast from Jacksonville to Miami.

Being 20 something and on the road is everything I hoped it would be. This is about to get interesting, ladies. I'll keep you posted;)

I do not know what to do, but my eyes are on You

I missed the party. My girl Beth Moore did an online simulcast on Saturday, and because of stinkin adulthood, I didn't make it. Evidently I missed a real good one.

Beth's blog is the only blog I check religiously (you should too. Find it here). I think I stalk her just a tad...its borderline unhealthy. But seriously, have you seen her hair?? Its a mile high. I can only dream of achieving such volume.


Yet, I digress. I logged on this evening to see what Miss Beth has been up to, hoping to find a recap of the event I missed. Did I ever find what I was looking for, and then some! Beth posted a followup book of sorts. A collection of scriptures dealing with the crippling stronghold of fear.

I definitely should have attended this one.

You see, its been a tough week here in Jax. The Lord has done a lot of humbling in this little heart, and let me just say that process never gets any more enjoyable. It sucks. Especially when the humbling comes from those you think know far less than you. Especially when you think you've been doing a bang up job.

Girlfriend, that's what you get for thinking.

Anyhow, when I stumbled across this little gem of a book, I skimmed its contents, saving most for later, but looking for something in particular that might really speak to me tonight. What my Mama keeps reminding me is so very true, girls: When you ask, Father never withholds in the wisdom department (James 1:5-8).

I asked the question a week ago today, not knowing what the coming day would bring. As I recounted my day to the Lord in my journal, I asked him very pointedly, "Was I not supposed to fight this battle myself?" I didn't even get the entire sentence on the page before I heard the answer so very clearly:

The LORD will fight for you; Hold your peace. -Exodus 14:14

Thanks to my precious Aunt who once doubled as my sunday school teacher, I committed this verse to memory, and it has long since been one of my very favorites. It served as a fitting answer to my rather silly question. Of course I wasn't supposed to stand up and fight that one. I'm never meant to fight my own battles. My warrior King has me covered on every front.

So when I stumbled across a passage 2 Chronicles, I heard Father reaffirm his answer in a beautiful way.

You do not have to fight this battle. Position yourselves, stand still, and see the
salvation of the LORD. He is with you, Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid
or discouraged. Tomorrow, go out to face them, for Yahweh is with you.’”
-2 Chronicles 20:17

Have you ever heard the phrase "jumpin' Jehoshaphat"? I still don't know what it means, but it gets it's name from this guy. My boy Jey was the King of Judah during a time when they were scuffling with the neighboring country of Moab. King Jey knew the time would come that he had to face his enemies, and lets just say the man knew that when the day arrived, they were going to get their tails handed to them. That is, of course, if they fought that battle alone.

King Jey knew better though. He called on the nation of Judah and together, they fell on their faces and worshiped the Almighty. They admitted their weakness, and they sought his direction. You know how it ended? Not a single living Moabite, and so much loot it took 3 days for the men of Judah to collect it all.

My battle is much smaller, but I'm not sure I'm any less terrified than the army of Judah. Centuries later, the command is remains the same. Go face them. Do it tomorrow. Don't waste a single moment. Yahweh is with you, sweet child.

If you're thinking of me tomorrow and you happen to be the praying kind, ask Father to fill me with more courage than I could ever imagine. Pray for wisdom far beyond my 21 years. Pray for softened hearts for those I must confront.

I'm entering confused and helpless, but my battle cry is that of the army of Judah: "We do not know what to do, but our eyes are fixed on you." -2 Chronicles 20:12

A Day Off...

Such a rarity in this field. Days off don't come frequently, and when they do, girl you better cherish it. Today was only partially a day off. Given the holiday (if you can call it that...seems much too positive for such a sad event), Boston asked us to put all campaign activities on hold and instead, devote ourselves to a service project. UNF decided on a food drive for donations to the USO.


There was only one teenisey-weenisey little problem.

I didn't get this memo til 2pm Monday. The pesky thing about a food drive is people can't really donate if they don't know your drive is happening. Obviously, an email blast at 4pm wasn't super effective. To make a long story short, my solution was this:


Yep. $150 dropped at Walmart in SunnyD and granola bars. When the check out man asked which Army I was feeding with all my purchases, I proudly responded "The United States Army, sir." Grin.

Our boys are coming home a little heavier than they left. I hope they are ok with that.

After all was said and done, the future FLOTUS met us at our Manderin office to help sort our items into individual gift bags. One heck of a woman, that Ann Romney.

We also did a little decorating around the UNF student Union today. We weren't able to pull off the flag display most campuses do, so we opted for deco mesh bows instead (and by we, I mean me. Come on now, I'm the lone girl in an office full of men). For a first attempt, I think they turned out pretty awesome.


It didn't hurt that I had a fabulous team helping me assemble all 30 bows at the office last night (read, a 6 year old and two guys I practically begged to join in). Never a dull moment at the Duval Co. Headquarters.

All in all, I'll call it another good day here in Jax-city (Did I just make that up? I think so). Hearts are certainly heavy, but I'm reminded our Father takes broken things and makes them incredibly beautiful, even if its as simple as a pack of cheese crackers and a bottle of Welches.

Dates with My Daddy

I remember the exact moment the image struck me; an image that totally wrecked my view of time spent with Father.

My first semester of college, I spent every Friday afternoon in the Starbucks in the UK student center. I took my Bible along, ordered a venti hot mocha, and curled into the arm chair in the far corner for some time in the word. One October Friday, just before my nineteenth birthday, I sent a quick text to my roommate to let her know I was heading into another "coffee date" with Father, and that I would be unreachable for the next couple of hours. It was in that moment that it hit me: the image of a kind old man nestled into the chair beside me, a steaming cup of coffee clutched in his wrinkled hand, smiling as he waited to listen to the million things running through my head.

A real, actual date, with a real, actual person.

Don't misunderstand my experience. I don't claim that this was some kind of "vision" (nor do I believe God looks like a 95 year old guy), but I'm a very visual learner. This was more of a lesson taught in a way I could really understand. The realization that time spent in the word is meant to be a time of conversation between two people. A time to listen, and a time to share. A time of getting to know one another; the deepening of a relationship, and the strengthening of a love.

Its changed the way I do "quiet times" now. I often return to this image, a reminder that when I open the pages of my well loved (i.e. hanging on by a thread) pink Bible, Father joins me. We enter into conversation. We hang out. In my head, the empty chair across from me is always reserved for him (now you think I'm downright crazy). Time in the scripture was never meant to be a solo chore; if approached this way, there is really no sense in doing it at all.

Father and I had great date tonight. I finally cracked open my copy of Beth Moore's "James" study, and its already challenging the way I study the word. Part of this study involved memorizing James.

That's right. The whole thing.

Crazy as it sounds, I'm giving it a go. I spent this evening at the Starbucks down the road from my apartment copying the first chapter by hand. If you've never tried this exercise, I highly recommend it. Rewriting a passage of scripture forces you to read every single word. I find that it really makes me slow down and chew on what I'm reading, instead of letting my ADD take control and blowing through the passage too fast to meditate on its meaning.


Would you like to join me? We could hold each other accountable! It could be so much fun. You can pick up a copy of Beth Moore's "James: Mercy Triumphs" at your local lifeway store or, order one here.

Another perk of date night? My new favorite fall treat, a salted caramel mocha. I don't even like caramel, but this thing is the bomb dot com.

3 Reasons Today was Fabulous

Shoot, girls. It has been one heck of a day! I mean this in the best of ways, but my goodness I am exhausted. Here are 3 reasons my day was absolutely grand:

1. Super Saturday was today and my CR's showed up in full force! SS is a monthly, nationwide Get Out The Vote effort sponsored by the RNC during which victory centers pack out their offices with volunteers in attempt to make as many live voter contacts as possible. I had 20 CRs attend total, including two who stuck it out for the entire 12 hours! This is the kind of drive and dedication that will swing Florida in our favor come Nov. 6.



2. Guess who finally secured a Chairman for a start up chapter at Flagler College? This girl!! I've been trying to get on their campus for nearly 3 weeks with absolutely ZERO luck. When a sweet English major named Ashli called me today and said she would love to spearhead the effort, I nearly jumped for joy in the office parking lot in my four inch heels. This is probably one of the more exciting moments I've had so far. Three Cheers for an awesome intern who got me the hook up!

3. I'm now enjoying a hot cup of tea in my PJs while lounging on my porch. Is there any better way to unwind from a 14 hour work day than listening to fish leaping in the pond on a clear summer night? If you said there was, I probably wouldn't believe you. Father loves on me with evenings like this...

Tomorrow couldn't be a better day to have off. I can't wait to sleep late, enjoy coffee on the porch, and not think about working for a single second. I love my job, but hey, everybody needs some time off:) Fingers crossed for great pool weather!

I'm still here.

Oh sweet friends, its been a while.

I suppose the updates haven't been on my mind as of late. August was a whirlwind, to say the least. I touched down in every single state in the SEC (Plus D.C.) in the span of 2 weeks, and a week later, found myself in a new home in Jacksonville, FL. I suppose I just can't stay away from the coast.

After camp, I made the trip home and spent a lovely two weeks with my family and the best girlfriends (Plus Brian) in the entire world. Goodness I missed these guys. There is something to be said for the friends you can be totally comfortable around; those who will go in public with you in janky clothes, lay by the pool and plan your non-existant weddings with, and those you can talk politics with as though your opinion actually matters. What a soul refresher it was. Sigh...

So here I am. My first big girl job is underway. I suppose I ought to be a little more intimidated than I am. After all, I'm a part (albiet, a rather small, bottom of the totem pole, insignificant part) of one of the most critical presidential races in modern history. I'm in a very large, very unfamiliar town. I'm living completely alone for the first time in my life. Its often quiet...luckily, I'm quite the introvert. Maybe I'm better suited for this lifestyle than I knew.

I'm happy though. I'm 21 years old (22 a month from today!), and I'm in a field I absolutely adore. Just a week ago, I came face to face with Mitt Romney. I didn't even step on his toe this time...another story for another day. I work with college students and spend my days in a fast paced office run by some truly passionate, awesome people. At the end of the day, I'm being paid to do the things I did for fun in college. What more could a girl possible ask for?

Disclaimer: No toes were harmed in the taking of this photograph.

I'm tired, but I'm content. The Lord is here. I feel him constantly. Fully. I suppose his presence is what drives out the fear that should be here. He has called me here, for such a time as this. What a grand thought it is!

Abudance

Week 8.

Go Hard, then Go Home, right?

I'm not feeling it. Today, I need a good cup of coffee and a good cry. I need my bed and my momma. I need my feet to stop aching and my mind to stop racing.

What happened to the joy?

Oh, I'm just not feeling it. Pray that this week gets better. Pray it passes quickly.

The Awesome and the Not So Awesome

You know how people always ask if you want the good news or the bad news first? Well I'm making an executive decision and going with the good news first.

The Awesome:

Today was the first time I taught Tough Questions and didn't want to shoot myself when it was over. Actually, today was one of my favorite days of teaching ever. Before I teach, I always pray for the Lord to fill me with himself and speak through me. Most of the time, I second guess myself though. I'm never totally confident I'm letting him take the lead, especially when my thoughts are jumbled and nothing comes out the way I want it to.

Not today. I have never been more confident the words said today were not my own. The Holy Spirit showed up and boy, did he ever bring the gospel. Its going to be a great week...my group is the perfect size and they all seem engaged. They asked some pretty great questions too, except for one middle school boy. Anybody want to field this question?

If you can't read the handwriting, it says, "What does the verse mean that says you should stone your wife if she is not a virgin? Is it wrong?"

I don't know kid, but I'm positive you don't have a wife, so how about we don't worry about that one?

The Not So Awesome:

Turns out the cold I've been fighting for the last several days is actually walking pneumonia. Honestly, I think it sounds way more intense than it actually is. I had to go to urgent treatment this evening, and since I hate the doctor, I had to find some way to lighten the mood while I waited. In the process, I think I've found the cure for a runny nose. Exhibit A:

Call NASA...I'm a genius.

Honestly, I think it sounds way more intense than it actually is. Regardless, I have been sentenced to bed rest while everyone else does camp. So far I've found little to do with myself. I'll be stir crazy in T-24 hours.

Sooooo...if you're praying, there's a new one. I'm fine, I swear. But if you want to send cookies, I guess that's ok too:)

Love From Home and A Few Requests

Hello again!!

Its a great day to be in PCB, first because week 6 is kicking off as we speak! I'm hanging out in the Registration room at the moment, and almost all of our churches have already arrived...PTL for early registration days!

The second and most important reason its a great day is because I GOT MAIL!!! I receive mail on occasion, but when a letter arrives addressed to Claudia Taylor, I know its about to get good, because it probably came from my family (they're the only people who call me that, and I secretly love it. I suppose its not a secret anymore though). This one was extra special...a handwritten letter from one of my favorite men on the entire planet. Thanks, Papa. You brightened my day more than you know.

Now that I'm off to such a fabulous start, I'm really looking forward to an awesome week. Can you believe there are only three to go? Me neither. As you are doing whatever you do day to day, I hope you will lift up a few things for us down in the Panhandle:

1. Due to low numbers, our staff has begun to head home for the summer. This morning we lost two lovely ladies...they were such a huge asset to our team and will be sorely missed. Please pray that transitions will be smooth; both for us at PCB as we learn to do camp without them, and for Miriam and Brooke as they make the sometimes difficult transition back to "real life".

2. I'm tackling "Tough Questions" track again this week. In this track, students ask some of their most difficult questions about the christian faith, such as why God allows suffering and whether or not absolute truth exists. Its fun to delve into these topics, but they can get hairy. The first attempt was less than ideal on my part. Pray the Lord would bring students with good questions and teachable hearts. Please pray he would daily fill me with HIS words and HIS answers, and that I would be completely dependent on him in my teaching. Pray that I will be diligent in all my preparations.

3. Pray for joy and energy for our staff. Week 6 is when you really begin to realize how tired you are, and for many of us (namely, me), its the point when illness sets in. Ask the Lord to multiply our sleep and give us the energy to push through and give students all we have as though we were as rested as we began on Week 1.

You're prayers are so precious to me. Please let me know how I can pray for you too. I would love nothing more than to be lifting you up this week!!

The iPhone Dump: A Recap of Weeks 4 & 5

Why, Hello There!

I've missed you something terrible! Its been a wild couple of weeks here in PCB, and I simply haven't made the time to keep you up to date...silly me:) I did manage to snap a couple pictures though, and I would just LOVE to share them with you!

1. Staff Appreciation Dinner was last Sunday night. This is the one night of the summer we all put on something besides a staff t shirt, fix our hair, and hit the town for a great meal courtesy of Lifeway. This was taken after dinner with my partner in office crime and beautiful DD (that's development director, not designated driver. Those aren't Lifeway-approved activities). I think she looks like Carrie Underwood. Totally jealous.

2. When things get crazy, I tend to push cleaning to the back of my mind. Think its time to tackle my corner of the office?

3. For the second time in my whole life, my team actually won mega relay. This is not something to brag about, as the opposing team boasted a median age of 50. Given my record, I'll take it. #supernovaswag

4. When it comes time to open the store, we tend to hit the sleep drunk stage and begin participating in ridiculous and often unsafe activities like climbing on shoulders to open the store windows. At least we have a great team of spotters. Spoons not forks!!

5. The Fourth of July was done big in PCB. The Rec team (plus katie and myself) all decked out in our very best patriotic attire. Picture left to right are Redneck Katie, Florist with an American Flag on his face, Captain America, The Statue of Liberty, and Miss America.

6. A favorite christmas week tradition is called "Pimp My Mega", during which one must wear whatever costume their Secret Santa picks for them. Katie is a cupcake...her costume was the cutest, hands down.

7. Congrats to Miss Burrows, brand new fifth grade teacher!! We celebrated Brooke's first  big girl job with a super yummy german chocolate cake during paper party.

8. Wednesdays are my favorite night, because this is the night Dave lets me wear the headset and sit in the sound booth. The only problem is that Wednesday is also Secret agent costume night. Luckily, Gracie Lou Freebush can wear her headset over her tiara.

9. Katie and Florist rocking the drums during indoor rainy day rec rally.

10. This will be one of my favorite camp stories in history. Last Thursday, we received a letter in the mail from a recent high school graduate and a week 4 camper. During his week at camp, the Lord called him to Africa as a missionary. Enclosed in his letter was a personal check for $700 which he requested be added to the weekly missions offering. $700 dollars is a HUGE amount of money for a high school student (heck, its a huge amount of money for me). This is one of the most radical displays of obedience I have ever witnessed and has really challenged me to reevaluate my own giving.

11. Remember that one time I co-taught College Bible study with Katie and Forrest?? So. Much. Fun. This was our rec rotation for the week with a hilarious note from our rec director. We're kinda obsessed with each other.

12. Ahhhh...closing celebration. Poor Katie fell asleep sitting up while on the headset. She SWEARS she was just praying...

13. Week 4 College group was INCREDIBLE. It was so encouraging to pour into these men and women who brought their students to camp expecting to pour into them all week. I hope they were half as blessed by our time together as I was. I'm so jealous of what they get to do every single day.

That concludes my week(s) review. Week 6 kicks off bright and early...I'll be posting a list of ways you can be praying, so be sure to check in.

I love y'all to pieces.