die Reise - The Journey

What's In Your Tool Bag?

2011-07-19T23:04:00.001-04:00

There is so much information out there when it comes to fitness and health. It's hard to know where to start. I get overwhelmed when I try to wrap my hear around everything. I realized that I don't have to know everything, I just need to find what works for me and stick with it. One of the things that is working with me is using the Nike+ app on my phone. It tracks how far and how long I run. It also gives me my pace per mile and my calories burned. This app also syncs up with Facebook and when friends like your status it sends cheers to your phone. It's encouraging to get a cheer when I'm running. If you have an iPhone, adding this app might be a great tool to have!

Happy Running!

Nike+ available on iTunes

Run Your Butt Off - Week 1

2011-07-12T22:28:00.000-04:00

So I am two days into Week 1 of RYBO, and so far I have picked up on two things that I am going to make a priority when it comes to working out/walking/running.

1) I have a busy and sometimes crazy schedule and so I have to "pencil" in when I am going to workout. I have made the time right after I get out of class to do it. And so far I am sticking to my goal! I have to schedule my times to workout. If I don't, then I can easily go without it. But if I schedule it, then it helps me stay on track. So, schedule your workouts!

2). bring friends along! Walking/running is always more enjoyable and more motivating when done with friends. I posted on my cohort page that I would be walking after class. I had three people join me tonight! Ask friends, coworkers, or family members to join you.

Wanna-Be-Runner,
Kiana

Peachtree Road Race 2011

2011-07-07T13:55:00.004-04:00

On Monday, July 4, 2011, I walked/jogged with about 60,000 other people to complete my first Peachtree Road Race. The PRR is a 10k that begins in Buckhead, runs through midtown and ends in Piedmont Park. After the race, my feet and legs were so sore and I felt exhausted. But simultaneously, I felt exhilarated! I pushed myself to keep going and I accomplished my goal (to finish)!

After the race and in the days that have followed, I have done some thinking about running. I am not a runner. I don't look like a runner and I don't have the stamina of a runner. However, I know that this can change. I feel like I did a great job on Monday, considering this was my first race in about 10 years and that I am not a "runner." But I know that I can push myself to become better.

My goal is to train and work hard to become a "runner." No so that I can run a 10k in under 30 minutes,* but so that I can push myself physically to another level. I want to be able to have the physical strength and stamina to be able to jog/run longer distances than I am today. I have a year to do it and I plan on pushing so that I can run the whole Peachtree race next year!

My plan is to follow the Run Your Butt Off plan laid out in the book. Starting on Monday, July 11, I'll start the 12 week plan to becoming a runner. I am not looking to become a fast runner, just someone who has the stamina to run.

The Plan: The RYBO plan is a 12 week plan moves people from being walkers to being runners. Each workout is 30 minutes long and it gives direction to slowly increase running time and decrease walking time.

Week 1: Walk for 30 minutes four times a week. I am walking on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. The way my schedule is right now, these are the days that work best for me.

Please feel free to join the journey with me!

Kiana

{Definition}

2010-05-09T20:33:00.008-04:00

One thing God has been teaching me is that a definition is very important. It is important to have definition in our lives and for our lives. The heart of the lesson is to learn WHO and WHAT are giving the definition.

We look in so many places to find the WHO'S and WHAT'S to define us. We look for people to define us or we allow others opinions to define us. We look at what we own {and don't own} as a form of definition. We use our accomplishments in school, sports, or work to give our lives definition. The problem with these things...they don't last and they don't have any validity.

I am learning that the only WHO and WHAT who can give me true and perfect definition is Jesus Christ. He is my WHO. His opinion and the way He sees me is what gives my life definition. His love covers every imperfection. His patience sweeps over my impatience. His wisdom surpasses my foolishness. His grace overflows and is enough.

He is also my WHAT. His death on the cross is the act that gave my life definition. Because of the blood he shed for me, my life is distinct and my purpose if clearly outlined. Because of WHAT He did for me, I can live a life that doesn't depend on someone's ever changing emotions or decisions. My life is in the steady, unchanging hands of my Savior.

Questions to think about:

Who am I looking to for definition?
Who am I allowing to give my life definition?
Is there someone I am relying on to give me definition?
What objects do I focus on to give me definition?
What do I feel like I need to have or want to have to give better definition to my life?
What and who are standing in the way of allowing God to be my definition?

Ciao :)

Yes! I am counting down!

2010-04-21T11:40:00.002-04:00

This semester is almost over! The finish line is in sight! This semester has been my most challenging so far. Half of my classes are at night and the other half are in the morning. Being as school til 10 at night then having to be back 11 hours later can be a drag. But it's almost over!

I am totally counting down the days and assignments for each class!

Statistics: 3 more days of class left. No assignments.

Multi-Cultural Education: 2 more classes. Discussion project. Final Project due.

Algebra: 2 more class days. 1 more test.

Environmental Science: 3 class days. 3 article papers to turn in. Community Service project due.

Education Psychology: 2 class days. 1 more test.

Environmental Science Lab: 1 day of class = Field Trip!

Yoga: 1 class left! Turn in final.

This is what I have to do between now and a week from today! Then classes will be over...but then it's on to finals week! That's a whole other ball of wax!

Gifts

2010-04-10T19:43:00.002-04:00

What is a gift? In the literal sense is it something given without expecting anything back. It is something that is given to express affection and love. It can be huge and extravagant. Or it can be a small token. What makes a gift special and meaningful is the reason and thought behind it. If it is given from the heart, then the gift can be priceless.

I believe each person on earth is given a gift. But this gift is different. It is given for a specific reason. But the giver does expect something back. Our Heavenly Father has gifted us with a special talent. He gave us these gifts to show us that we are significantly valuable to Him. It is one way He expresses his infinite love for us.

It is so easy to spot everyone else's gifts. It's easy to approach someone ad affirm or confirm their gifts. But it is quite difficult to know exactly what one's own gift is. It might hit you in the head and be bluntly obvious. Other times it takes a lot of digging and searching. It is hard to not get discouraged when you see everyone around you find and be confident in their gifts. I've learned that one can't give up or become discouraged. Pressing on and completing the journey to find the gift is also important.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

2010-03-30T16:19:00.003-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Today is my sister, Kayla's 21st birthday! Love you babe!

God is Good

2010-03-25T17:44:00.003-04:00

All the time! And all the time, God is good!

My Papa's surgery lasted about 3 hours. When he came out, the doctor said the surgery went smoothly and Papa did very well! He only had to stay in the hospital for three days. On Wednesday got to go home! He is recovering very well and he's excited to get back to normal!

Thank you for your prayers!

Prayer

2010-03-22T09:21:00.004-04:00

Today at 11:30 eastern time, which is 5:30am in Hawaii, my Papa will be having surgery. He has had cancer in the past and for about a year he has been in remission. However, during a routine checkup they found more cancer cells. This surgery will be to remove the cancer from just below his heart.

Please pray for my Papa and Nana, that they will have complete peace as he enters the surgery. That they would feel God's presence constantly around both of them. That they would feel relaxed and the feeling of anxiety and stress would not surround them!

Thank you so much!

Me, my cousin Madison, and my Papa

A Forever Family

2010-03-20T14:59:00.007-04:00

I want to share a story with you about a girl named Jana (Yanna). Take a minute and read it through. If you could pass it along to your friends and family that would be awesome! We are praying that God would work and that Jana would find a "forever" family! Please partner with us and pray for her!

Friends….

Here is a picture and a brief bio on a wonderful young lady named Jana (Yaana). We had the opportunity to meet her and spend time with her over this past Christmas during the Christmas hosting program. Jana is from Latvia but is very much like an American girl but living in Latvia. She is fun loving with a great sense of humor. She has a tender heart and very much wants a forever family. She is musically talented and can play piano. You will not find a warmer person once she gets to know you.

Here is our prayer for Jana…she needs to find a forever family.

She turns 16 in September…which means once she turns 16 she will no longer be eligible for adoption. She is available to be hosted this summer but for anyone who would be interested in adopting her…they would need to start the process soon!

Please take seven days and pray for Jana…that she would find her forever family. If you would like to know more information on Jana…please feel free to contact us and we will do all we can to help!

Jana: Great girl, turns 16 in September, very much wants her own forever family. Jana is a typical teen in many ways, she loves clothes and shoes and loves to look pretty. She is already beautiful though. She's tall and knows what she likes. She is in a foster family, so she is used to having a little more than the typical child who is in an orphanage. You'll find her to be very much like American teens. She's very nervous about going new places and social scenes make her nervous enough to not want to stay long. She just needs to become more comfortable in new surroundings. She's musical, likes piano, loves to act and thinks she'd like to be an actress. She would like to be an only child, or maybe have one sister. She likes watching dvds/movies and being at home.

If you are interested, or someone you know is, please contact Kevin Tuttle at Kevin@EverythingCoffee-Tea.com or Cindy Tuttle at ctuttle@stonecreekchurch.org. Also check out Kevin and Cindy's blog!

IQ Question Answers

2010-03-18T09:58:00.003-04:00

Here are the answers to the IQ questions from the previous post:

1. Some months have 30 days, some have 31 days. How many months have 28 days?

A. All of them. Every month has at least 28 days.

2. If a doctor gives you 3 pills and tells you to take one pill every half hour, how long would it be before all the pills had been taken?

A. It would take 1 hour. Take one pill at 2:00, then take one at 2:30, then at 3:00.

3. I went to bed at 8 o'clock in the evening and wound my clock and set the alarm to sound at 9 o'clock in the morning. How many hours of sleep would I get before being awoken by the alarm?

A. You would get one hour of sleep. A windup clock can't differentiate between A.M. and P.M.

4. Divide 30 by half and add 10. What do you get?

A. 70. When you divide 30 by .5 it's like multiplying it by 2 (60) then add 10 (70).

5. A farmer had 17 sheep. All but 9 died. How many live sheep were left?

A. All but 9 of them died, so there are 9 sheep left.

6. If you only had a match and entered a COLD and DARK room, where there was an oil heater, an oil lamp and a candle, which would you light first?

A. You light the match. You're in a DARK room, so you would light the match first do you can see.

7. A man builds a house with four sides of rectangular construction, each side having a southern exposure. A big bear comes along. What color is the bear?

A. The bear is white. His house is built in the Arctic.

8. Take 2 apples away from 3. What do you have?

A. 2 apples. If there are three apples in a bowl and you take two, then you have two.

9. How many animals of each species did Moses take with him in the Ark?

A. None, Moses didn't take any animals on an Ark.

10. If you drove a bus with 43 people on board from Chicago and stopped at Pittsburgh to pick up 7 more people and drop off 5 passengers and at Cleveland to drop off 8 passengers and pick up 4 more and eventually arrive in Philadelphia 20 hours later. What's the name of the driver?

A. Insert your own name. The sentence says "you" are the driver.

Hopefully you were entertained by this :)

Sample IQ Questions

2010-03-17T18:36:00.002-04:00

Tonight in one of my education classes we were discussing "exceptional children" (children with special needs and abilities). One of the handouts was this list of sample IQ questions:

1. Some months have 30 days, some have 31 days. How many months have 28 days?

2. If a doctor gives you 3 pills and tells you to take one pill every half hour, how long would it be before all the pills had been taken?

3. I went to bed at 8 o'clock in the evening and wound my clock and set the alarm to sound at 9 o'clock in the morning. How many hours of sleep would I get before being awoken by the alarm?

4. Divide 30 by half and add 10. What do you get?

5. A farmer had 17 sheep. All but 9 died. How many live sheep were left?

6. If you only had a match and entered a COLD and DARK room, where there was an oil heater, an oil lamp and a candle, which would you light first?

7. A man builds a house with four sides of rectangular construction, each side having a southern exposure. A big bear comes along. What color is the bear?

8. Take 2 apples away from 3. What do you have?

9. How many animals of each species did Moses take with him in the Ark?

What's your IQ?

2010-03-17T12:54:00.002-04:00

Super, amazing movie! Definitely a must see!

"Can you tell me, why is a raven like a writing desk?"

- Mad Hatter

"I think of 6 impossible things before breakfast."

- Alice

Sometimes...It's Hard

2010-03-13T19:51:00.003-05:00

It is easy to...

Love people who return my love, Treat people kindly who do so to me, Open up to someone, who opens up to me, Forgive those who forgive me, Go the extra mile for someone who goes it for me, and Understand people who understand me.

When all of these things happen, it's so easy to see people as Christ sees them.

But when people...Don't return the love I give, Don't treat me kindly, When they won't open up to me, Don't forgive me, Won't go the extra mile, and Can't show me any understanding,

it is so hard to see them as Christ sees them!

God never said it would be easy to love people. But He did command us to Love! When we love like Christ does, means our love is accepting, affectionate, caring, compassionate, considerate, shows empathy, has forbearance, forgiveness, friendship, generosity, gentleness, interdependence, kindness, patience, sharing, sympathy, thoughtfulness, tolerance, and unselfishness.

Lord, help me to love the way you do!

Sick Day Movies

2010-03-12T14:49:00.004-05:00

One advantage to being sick is being able to have time to watch movies. Here's what's been playing on my screen:

CSI

The Office

CSI: New York (personally, it's the best one out of the three!)

CSI: Miami

NCIS - Pretty much my favorite show right now!

Other shows are White Collar, The Time Traveler's Wife, Lost, and She's the Man.

2010-03-12T12:07:00.004-05:00

Day 3 of yicky cold! This cold has been sponsored by: NyQuil - thank you for helping me sleep easier at night!

Vitamin C - Even though you are chewable, I thank you anyways!

Ginger Ale - You make drinking EmergenC so much more enjoyable!

EmergenC: Thank you for the boost in vitamins and antioxidants!

Dear Mr. Cold,

You have overstayed your welcome! Please pack up and get out!

Sincerely,

Kiana

Blogging Tips

2010-03-11T17:28:00.003-05:00

Are you looking for a way to liven up your blog space? After all, a blog is like your home. And it says something about you. Why not customize your blog so it expresses who you are!

Here is a link for a website that will help you edit the HTML on your blog so you can put in a customized background!

Also check out The Cutest Blog on the Block for some super cute templates!

Happy Creating!

Don't Ever Say Never!

2010-03-09T21:17:00.004-05:00

We all have "nevers". It's those things we say we will "never" do, wear, say, feel, or have! But there's something I've learned and that with God, the word "never" is a chance for Him to work in us!

Here are a few of my "nevers":

*I will never go to college anywhere except Hawaii (that didn't happen!)

*I won't ever wear yellow (I now own three different shirts that are yellow)

*I never want to live where it's cold (we've had a lot of snow in GA this year!)

*I will never understand or like politics (and yet I interned for a ministry that was all about politics!)

*I will never be interested in a guy who was younger than me (turns out the only guy I'm interested in is younger than me)

And the last one: *I will never be a teacher...

For as long as I can remember I have been surrounded my incredible teachers! Some of whom were trained to be teachers and some just had a heart to teach. When I started thinking about what I wanted to be when I grew up, I knew one thing: I didn't want to be a teacher. I just never thought I would be a good it. I had seen what it took to become an exceptional teacher and I wasn't sure I had what it took to be a good teacher. I liked helping other people teach, but I didn't think I could do it.

Last fall, things began to change. I was given more opportunities to be in a position to teach and work with children. I started to really enjoy it and I found myself becoming excited about teaching. I started to question what I was doing with my life. I knew I wanted to work with children and I felt like God was saying it would be either in the medical field or as a psychologist/speech pathologist, but not as a teacher. Because this is what I believed I was supposed to be doing, that is what I was pursuing. During the fall semester I registered for and was only 2 classes away from completing an associates in psychology. Since I was feeling uncertain, I sat with God and began to ask Him what I should do. I asked Him so give me clarity and to give me a specific direction for my life.

I taught a government class to a group of 7th and 8th graders. Government isn't the most exciting subject in the whole world, especially if you have to sit for a total of 8 hours in a small room for the class. I knew I had to do my best in order to make it interesting and exciting. At the end of the class I thought the kids would be glad to have the class finished. But it was the complete opposite. Each one of them complained they didn't want the class to be over! It was in that moment that I felt God clearly telling me He wanted me to be a teacher. I shared my decision with the people in my life whose wisdom and opinion matters the most. I received confirmation from each one of them and continued to feel God's peace.

I started the process of changing majors and adjusting my school schedule. This semester has been my most difficult one so far and on many different levels. But through it all, I feel God's peace and I find my strength and drive in Him. I love the peace and fulfillment that comes from walking where God wants me to walk. I look forward to what He has in store for me!

I guess the moral of the story is: When we say "never" it gives God a chance to work in us! So be prepared and never say "never"!

Me and my biggest inspiration, cheerleader, and mentor in my journey to become a teacher. She's my mom!

Best Friends

2010-03-08T21:51:00.005-05:00

I am so grateful for my best friend.

"Life is nothing without friendship. Love is friendship set on fire."

-unknown

Better Late Than Never

2010-03-06T18:12:00.007-05:00

For the last couple of months I've been entertaining the idea of cutting my hair. Upon recommendation from Katie, http://quietworldcreative.blogspot.com, I did some research on what haircuts and styles work for my face shape. Then one night my sister and I were talking and she mentioned she was having her hair done the following day. I got the urge and decided it was time to take action! The next morning I called the salon and made an appointment. The only person who knew about this venture was my partner in crime, Kayla!

Here we go! New haircut! It's really short and really different, but I'm really liking it! This new do is super easy and I love how easy it is to do in the morning. If I go curly, I can have my hair done in 10 minutes! Going straight is another story. I still haven't quite figured out how everything is supposed to lay. It's definitely a work in progress. But I'm loving it!

Breathing

2010-03-05T21:08:00.002-05:00

"In our busy society, it is a great fortune to breathe consciously for a moment."
-Emilie Cook (yoga instructor)

It's a simple quote, but it has a lot of meaning. We are so busy and our lives are in constant motion. So much so, that we forget to slow down and enjoy each moment and the little blessings that find us along the way.

For example: breathing. We all need to breathe. Without it, we wouldn't survive. But we are so busy that we don't take time to be thankful for the breath of life that is flowing through us. Pausing for a moment and *consciously* breathing, allows us to clear our mind and focus on the things that are most important. Use this moment to also thank the One who gave you breath, the Creator, Jesus Christ!

die Reise

2010-03-04T22:45:00.002-05:00

In German, die Reise is translated as the Journey.

Journeys are very important. They are the act of travel or passage. Moving from one location to another. Some journeys last only a matter of minutes. While others last a lifetime. While the final destination of the journey is important, it is not the most important.
One important component of the a journey is the trip itself: What do I see along the way? Who is with me? Are they permanent members of the trip? Or are they just catching a ride? What am I learning? How am I being challenged? What have I lost? What have I gained? How is this journey shaping me? All of these are questions that are asked and should be answered as one take their Journey in life.

The most important questions to be answered is why you are taking the Journey. Is it for selfish gain? Is it to be recognized by those around me? Is it to prove something? Is it to find worth in who I am? The answer to these is: No. The reason for the Journey is found in Jesus Christ. He has to be the reason for the Journey. Without Him, it's all worthless. It is only in Him that we have gain, find recognition, and worth.

That. Is the reason for my Journey. To find my gain, recognition and worth in Christ.

What's your Reise?

Friday Night Lights

2009-08-29T23:03:00.002-04:00

Football season has begun! That means it's time to pull out all my clothes that are red, white and black - Falcon's colors!

Adam and Noah are both playing for the Falcons this year and so far it's been an exciting season!

Last weekend was the first game. JV and Varsity played a team from Anderson, South Carolina. JV won their game and the Varsity won their game! Adam scored a safety in the first quarter, sacked the quarterback and made two really good tackles!

This weekend. On Friday night, the Varsity team was up against the Kings Ridge Tigers. They won 41-0! A shut out game! All the players played a great game! Tonight (Saturday night) it was a JV game against Horizon Christian Academy. Adam and Noah played a great game! The final score for this game was 23-0! Another shut out!

We are having a blast sitting in the stands and cheering and getting pumped about the game! It's even more awesome when friends from church come and support the boys! It's like they have their own fan club! It's so much fun!

Way to go Falcons! Awesome start to the season! So proud of you all!

Start of a new school year...

2009-08-19T18:40:00.006-04:00

So I am sure most of you are just starting school or are just about to. Or you are the lucky ones who have been in school for a little bit now! I started school yesterday and it was a long day! It usually takes about 45 minutes to drive to school, park and walk to class (parking at GSC is a nightmare!). Well yesterday it took 2 hours to get to school due to a bad wreck, therefore I missed my first class completely! Not a good way to start off the day!

But the rest of my classes were good! I like my professors so far, so hopefully that won't change!

I did however, stand in line at the bookstore four times to buy all my books! I stood in line twice to get in the bookstore and twice to purchase my books! Fun stuff ;)

"A Speaker's Guidebook" - Communications (5:30-6:45)

$73.50

"Aventuras - Primer curso de lengua espanola" - Spanish II (3:30-4:45)

Free - Same book as Spanish I

"Biology - Concepts & Connections" - Biology (2-3:15)

Free - Borrowing from a friend :)

"Essentials of American Government" - Political Science (12:30-1:45)

$92.15

"Georgia Government" - Political Science (12:30-1:45)

$15.95

"The Norton Anthology of World Literature" - Honors World Literature (11-12:15)

$49.75

"How To Read Superhero Comics And Why" - Honors World Literature (11-12:15)

$35.95

"Symbiosis" - Biology Lab (Wed. 3:15-5:05)

$48.05

Which brings me to a grand total (tax included) of: $337.42

I wish I had thought of and was smart enough to write text books and make lots of money! Oh well, I'll just have to find another way to make millions :)

B.E.A.C.H.

2009-06-08T23:35:00.002-04:00

Hilton Head!

We are taking a family vacation in Hilton Head! It's been great so far! The "We" included my family (mom, dad, me, adam, noah and riley), my nana, the Allens, the Enos family (aunty cindee, uncle shawn, maya, hunter and madison) and Ariana. So 14 people in all! It sounds like a lot, but I think, the more, the merrier!

We are staying in a beach house and it is a 30 second walk to the beach. When I stand outside the house, I can hear the waves crashing on the beach. It's great! I love that sound.

Today was wonderful. Miss Kim and I had our devotions on the beach this morning (a-mazing!). Then we all had breakfast. Everyone changed and we went down to the beach to look for sea shells and sand dollars. We were unsuccessful, but we still had fun playing in the sand.

After lunch, we went back and had a great success in finding sand dollars! We found 103 of them! Everyone was so excited. We also found 7 starfishes. They were all named. We had Stella, Ruffy, Mary, Tom, Jerry, Elijah, Seven and Pizza. We also caught 2 hermit crab and they were named Jolly Old Saint Nicolas and Mary the 2nd. It was so much fun!

I am looking forward to lots more sun, sand and family time tomorrow!

Me and God

2009-05-09T12:15:00.003-04:00

Sometimes my relationship with God is:

Exciting
An Adventure
Learning New Things about Him
Memorable
Wonderful
Amazing

And sometimes our relationship is:

Full of Changes
Intense
Learning Lessons
Painful

Sometimes it is a little bit of both mixed together. Lately God and I have been doing a lot of talking. He's been showing me some areas that I need to surrender up to Him and areas that need to be improved on. I know that in the long run and in the end, all these things are going to deepen my relationship with Him and make me stronger in Him. But right now it's hard.

One of the things I need to work on is being quick to listen and slow to respond. I can easily get frustrated or assume the worse when I do that in reverse: when I am quick to speak and slow to listen. It's easier said than done. Being quick to listen means I have to listen not only to the words that are being spoken, but also put into the equation what else is going on in the situation.

Another thing God is showing me, is how to respond through Him and not through myself. When I respond to things through my own will, I base that response on what is happening around me. If it's good, then my response is good. If there is tension, my response is short. God is showing me that I need to respond through Him. For me that means basing all my responses (verbal and nonverbal) on the Fruit of the Spirit. Responding out of love and joy. Having peace and patience in everything I do. Showing kindness in my actions. Letting my motives and actions be good. Being faithful and following through. Speaking with gentleness. And having self control on my thoughts, my tongue and my actions.

I've noticed that there are times when I'm really happy and then 5 minutes later, I'm not. And I keep asking myself: Why am I not always happy? Well first off, that is the wrong question to ask. The better question is: How can I have joy through it all? The reason happiness can't last forever is because happiness is circumstantial. Where as Joy is a heart decision that does not change with the weather. It is a transformation of the heart to choose joy always! God always talks about Joy and it is always accompanied with the Lord, never circumstances.

The Lord is my strength and shield.I trust him with all my heart.He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy.I burst out in songs of thanksgiving. Psalms 28:7

Let the godly sing for joy to the Lord;it is fitting for the pure to praise him. Psalms 33:1

But give great joy to those who came to my defense.Let them continually say, “Great is the Lord,who delights in blessing his servant with peace!” Psalms 35:27

What joy for those whose strength comes from the Lord,who have set their minds on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. Psalms 84:5

You thrill me, Lord, with all you have done for me!I sing for joy because of what you have done. Psalms 92:4

Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Philipians 4:4

So you received the message with joy from the Holy Spirit in spite of the severe suffering it brought you. In this way, you imitated both us and the Lord. I Thessalonians 1:6

God, I'm a piece of clay. Please do not allow me to be molded by the world. I pray I am molded into the vessel You want me to be.

Reflections

2009-05-07T10:43:00.002-04:00

Yesterday was a long day, mentally. I was in finals from 8am til 2:30. I had finals in 3 of my most challenging classes: Spanish (8am), History (10:30-12:30), and Psychology (1-3). But now it's over! First year of college is complete! It is a cool thing to look back over the past two semesters and all the things I have learned. I feel a sense of accomplishment for sticking with it and finishing! Only 3 more years to go!

Now I'm on to maymester. Theater appreciation will be on my plate for 15 days. As well as working on getting things ready for Highland Day Camp to begin! I'm looking forward to both. May is going to be quite busy. I do have a bright spot in the midst of this! In the second week of June my family is going to the beach for a week! Family, sun, sand and fun!

NUM8ERS

2009-04-23T00:08:00.003-04:00

1 more paper to write.
1 more spanish lab sheet to fill out.
1 final down.
3 more online quizzes.
3 more class days.
4 more workout sessions of the semester.
5 finals left.
14 days till the spring semester if completed!

YAY!.....THEN....

15 days of maymester classes.
8 weeks of highland day camp!

Wow, it's gonna be busy!

...Love...

2009-04-21T13:55:00.002-04:00

Every day I get an e-devotion from Crosswalk called Girlfriends in God. Today's devotion was such a great reminder of God's love for me and was very encouraging! I hope you are blessed and encouraged as I was!

"But—When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit.He generously poured out the Spirit upon us through Jesus Christ our Savior. Because of his grace he declared us righteous and gave us confidence that we will inherit eternal life.” Titus 3:4-7

"Love one another as I have loved you." John 15:12

A lady in a faded gingham dress and her husband, dressed in homespun, thread bare clothes, stepped off the train in Boston, and walked timidly into the Harvard University President's outer office where they had no appointment. The secretary could tell with one glance that such backwoods, country hicks had no business at Harvard and probably didn't even deserve to be in Cambridge. She frowned. "We want to see the president," the man said softly. "He'll be busy all day," the secretary snapped. "We'll wait," the lady replied.

For hours, the secretary ignored them, hoping that the couple would finally become discouraged and go away. They didn't and the secretary grew more angry and frustrated by the moment. Finally, with great hesitation, she decided to disturb the president. "Maybe if they just see you for a few minutes, they'll leave," she told him. He sighed in exasperation and nodded. Someone of his importance obviously didn't have the time to spend with them, but he detested gingham dresses and homespun suits cluttering up his outer office. The president, stern faced and with dignity, strutted toward the couple.

The lady told him, "We had a son who attended Harvard for one year. He loved Harvard and was happy here. But about a year ago, he was accidentally killed so my husband and I would like to erect a memorial to him, somewhere on campus." The president wasn't touched. In fact, he was shocked. "Madam," he said, gruffly, "we can't put up a statue for every person who has attended Harvard and died. If we did, this place would look like a cemetery."

"Oh, no," the lady explained quickly. "We don't want to erect a statue. We thought we would like to give a building to Harvard." The president rolled his eyes. He glanced at the gingham dress and homespun suit and then exclaimed, "A building! Do you have any earthly idea how much a building costs? We have over seven-and-a-half million dollars in the physical plant at Harvard." For a moment, the lady was silent. The president was pleased. Maybe he could get rid of them now.

The lady turned to her husband and said quietly, "Is that all it costs to start a university? Why don't we just start our own?" Her husband nodded. The president's face wilted in confusion and bewilderment. Mr. and Mrs. Leland Stanford got up and walked away, traveling to Palo Alto, California where they established the university that bears their name, a memorial to a son that Harvard no longer cared about.

I wonder how many blessings we miss because we are quick to judge and slow to love. It may surprise you to know that God does not love us because we are so lovable. God loves us because He IS love! We all long for someone who will love us just as we are, but wonder if such a love even exists and if it does, is it available to us. Unconditional love does exist and it is available to each one of us - just as we are - through Jesus Christ. God's love is a gift. It is neither earned nor deserved. Just as with any gift from God, His love is not only given for our benefit but for us to share as well. When we experience the love of God, He then calls us to love like He loves and teaches us how to celebrate the differences in each other instead of insisting that people change. There must be a thread of elasticity running through the very fiber of every relationship - especially our relationships with difficult people. The truth is that those who deserve love the least need love the most. Just as we cannot allow others to define us, we must stop trying to control, change and define others.

[from Crosswalk: Girlfriends in God]

2009-04-16T14:08:00.001-04:00

I think I forgot I had this blog :-/
Or I've been too busy to write anything?
Maybe it's just that I didn't have anything interesting to write about.

Either way, I'm gonna start writing again.
Hopefully you'll stay tuned!

Kiana

2008-10-17T22:14:00.002-04:00

This past week was the midpoint for the fall semester. The first half has flown by so quickly! Hopefully the second half will follow suit ;)

A lot of things have happened over the past few weeks: Papa and Nana, Janean, and Elizabeth all came and stayed for various amounts of time, I got to go see WICKED and met two of the main characters, went to two Braves games in a week, cheered loudly at several of Adam's football games, and spent many hours with my nose in a text book.

And there are more things coming up in the next few months: Kayla and Drew come home, family vacation to the beach, lots more school, Presidential election (first to vote in) (yes, I know. I'm a nerd!) and many more hours with my nose in a text book!

For the first time in a long time, I got to take a nap! Today was the perfect day for a nap. I had the windows slightly opened and I could hear the rain outside. It was glorious!

I am looking forward to fall weather! The sweaters, the leaves changing and the weather being a bit cooler! Yay Fall!

All of You

2008-09-22T20:18:00.002-04:00

"All of You, Is more than enough for, all of me
For every thirst and every need,
You satisfy me with Your love,
And all I have in you, is more than enough."

I find that the more I grow in my relationship with the Lord, the more I realize my complete dependence on Him and in Him. The more I get to know Him, His heart and will for my life, the more time I want to spend in His presence and I need more of Him. I love falling in love with the Lord and seeing and experiencing all the things He has for me! I serve an incredible God!

The past few weeks have been to full! I like it when there is always something to do. I like when I am busy. There's never a dull moment, that's for sure.

School is going great! I really am enjoying everything about school (except having to wake up so early :-/). It is great to go to a school where a handful of friends attend. It's a nice treat to randomly see them in the halls, in the library or walking around campus!

This semester I am working as a teacher's assistant with my Mom. I help monitor the sixth graders and help a little bit in the 1st and 2nd grade class. I love getting to see all the kids and be a part of their week! They are all so cute and so fun!

The past week has been filled with so many great moments! I got to go to sporting events three nights in a row! That was awesome! Got to make a surprise visit! Got the grades for a few tests that I had taken! I also got to spend a lot of quality time with the people I love the most! I am excited to see what God has in store for this upcoming week!

Ciao,
Kiana

First Day of School

2008-08-18T23:46:00.003-04:00

Today was the first day of school. My schedule went a little something like this:

900 - 955 Sociology: Intro to Marriage and Family

1000 - 1055 Intro to Sociology

1100 - 1155 English Composition

1200 - 1430 Long break!

1440 - 1555 Quantitative Skills and Reasoning

1600 Go Home!!!!

And that's my schedule for Monday and Wednesday. Except on Friday, I only have my three morning classes.

God has been so faithful and has provided for every thing! I was able to buy all my books (6 different books) for the whole semester for $204.90! That is awesome because some books alone cost $100 or more! Praise God for His provision!

More of an update coming soon!

Bullet Points

2008-08-09T22:26:00.003-04:00

In bullet points are the activities of this past week!

Watching Cole and Coen Cardelli this week. Which includes playing chase around the house, listening to silly boy jokes, swimming for 100 minutes and lots of apple juice.

Being sick with a sinus infection. Not very fun at all! Taking lots of medicine, drinking lots of water and staying in bed! But I did get lots of sleep and I am starting to feel a lot better! Just a few more days and then I'll be 100% myself!

David and Sarah Van Akkeren came and spent the week at our house! We met the Van Akkeren's in California and it was great to see them again and spend time with them!

Noah turned 12 years old! We had a great time celebrating and watching him open presents! He's not taller than me...yet. But he will be soon! It's only a matter of time now!

I hope you all have a great rest of your weekend! And that this upcoming week is wonderful!

*ciao

For The Ladies

2008-08-04T22:31:00.002-04:00

I stumbled across a website today and read this article and I thought that you'd enjoy reading this. What was so great about it was the bottom line of the article! I hope you enjoy reading this article!

What?!

2008-08-02T21:13:00.003-04:00

Oh my gosh! It's already August! I don't know about you, but from where I stand, time has gone by so very fast! It seems like yesterday that I was packing up to move to DC. Now in two weeks I'll be starting school! Wow! I guess the saying, "Time flies when you are having fun" really is true! :)

I hope you all have been having a great summer and no matter how much time you have until school starts, I hope you enjoy it!

Ciao

Whirlyball: Part II

2008-07-30T21:58:00.002-04:00

Ok...
Whirlyball was canceled for me. So I didn't end up going. But I will explain this new game to you all as best I can.

Whirlyball is a combination of bumper cars and basketball, with a few twists. There are two teams on the court at once. You ride around a court in a bumper car and each player has a (as my brother put it) "plastic ball catcher/thrower" which is used to pass the ball around and shoot goals. On either end of the court there is a backboard with a 12 inch hole in the back. The team's goal is to make as many baskets/goals as possible in the 13 minutes of each round.

If you want to check it out, go here and see for yourself!

Maybe one day I'll play whirlyball for real! And then take pictures! And then you can see!

Whirlyball!

2008-07-27T17:55:00.003-04:00

Tonight we are going with the Allen's to play whirlyball for Mr. Bill's birthday!
I have never played before, but I hear it is a ton of fun!
I'll let you know how it goes later!

Pictures to follow? Possibly.

I AM HOME!!!!

2008-06-02T21:53:00.002-04:00

I am now home!

I had my commissioning ceremony on Thursday, May 1st. It was such a lovely evening and I was so honored to have my parents, my two brother and the Allen's attend!

The following 6 days was spent walking all over Washington, DC. We saw everything from the Capitol, to the Washington Monument, to the World War II Memorial to the Vietnam Memorial, to the National Art Gallery to the Smithsonian Castle! It was so great to be able to show my family the sites and sounds of the city I've been living in!

We also spent a day at Mount Vernon, the home of George Washington! As well as a day in Williamsburg, the colonial town! We really enjoyed spending time as a family and getting to do and see all these things!!

Since I've been home I've been helping around the house, helping mom with getting things ready for Day Camp and just enjoying being home with my family! It's also been so nice to be able to be near Paul and to spend time with him!

This past week I went to the TeenPact National Convention. I went there and was in charge of all the staff interviews. My job was to schedule, conduct and document all the interviews. I also had some of TP's interns help me with the interviews. I am looking forward to seeing the great staff that come out of these students!

But now I am home. Going to rest a little tomorrow. Also. Tomorrow is Paul and I's six month anniversary!! That's so exciting to me! I am so blessed by him and am looking forward to the next six months!

God bless,
Kiana

Two Fridays in a Row!

2008-04-26T16:47:00.006-04:00

Last Friday was the 5th Annual National Catholic Prayer Breakfast!

No. I am not Catholic, but I went because Mr. Morrison bought at table for the Fellows to attend the event. It was a great experience.

Here are a few highlights:
1). Waking up at 4:30 am to get to the hotel at 6:00 am.
2). [and the highlight of the morning] President George W. Bush was one of the speakers! It was incredible! He is so engaging with the audience and is a fantastic speaker!

Then today...I went to Borders and bought a book called "Read All About It" and then stood in a line for 3 hours. What is so special about this book? It was written by Laura and Jenna Bush. Why did I stand in a line for 3 hours? Well, Jenna and Mrs. Bush were at Borders signing the books! So I got to meet both of them! That was so cool!

So two Fridays in a row I got to see members of the Bush family! I like the Bush family! They are great!

Here are a few pictures!

Left: President George W. Bush and (right) his beautiful and classy wife, Mrs. Laura Bush!

Left: The super cute and very personable Jenna Bush!

____ Days Till...

2008-04-18T22:03:00.000-04:00

The Final Countdown...Not that I'm counting days or anything... ;)

2 Days till Sunday (church and which may include soccer, a nap, and a concert on the mall)

3 Days till my second to last class day.

4 Days till our trip up to Philadelphia!

5 Days till the last recording session.

6 Days till goodbye lunch with Bethanie and the Faith & Family Summit.

9 Days till we go sailing in Annapolis!!

10 Days till my last class day :(

11 Days till my last internship day and last day in the office.

12 Days till my last field study.

13 Days till I see my family and the Allen's! Till my commissioning ceremony!!

15 Days till I leave DC! And go stay with Liz and Sarah!!

18 Days till I catch a train!

19 Days till I arrive home and I get to see Paul!!

20 Days till Bible study at my house and Jae and I have a sleep over!

Have you ever thought about what protects your heart?

2008-04-08T21:40:00.000-04:00

It amazes me how movies, conversations with people, things we see outside and even lines from songs can get your mind reeling and how they can get you to think on a deeper than the surface level. A line from a song I was listening to this morning got me thinking about some things and I thought I'd share with you my thoughts.

"Have you ever thought about what protects our hearts? Just a cage of rib bones and some other various parts. So it's fairly simple to cut right through the mess, And to stop the muscle that makes us confess."

What stood out to me was in the first line...''what protects your heart?" Of course we know the obvious answer to this, the technical medical answer. But let's look deeper. This question is like a 5-layered dip, you really have to dig into it to get all the good stuff!

- What is protecting your physical heart? "...just a cage of rib bones and some various parts..." We are all human and our physical hearts don't just take care of themselves. We have to exercise and eat the right types of food. Are you doing that? Are you actively working to see that your physical heart is in top shape and functioning at top notch? Are you taking the time to be sure your physical heart, the one that helps to keep you alive, is healthy?

- What is protecting your emotional heart? " ...the muscle that makes us easily confess..." Emotions are vital to human interaction. But when our emotions are the ones that guide us, help us see the world around us, determine if our day is a good one or a bad one or if they are what leads us to behave the way we do, then there's a problem. Are we constantly looking for praise, affirmation or acceptance of people to fill the emotional emptiness? Do we allow a negative word or look to make us depressed or bring us down? Are we allowing the Holy Spirit to be the protector of this area? Are we protecting our emotions under the promise that we were bought with a price and that we are redeemed children of the Most High? Or are we allowing our hearts to be protected by words and thoughts that are lies and cause us to not see ourselves through the eyes of Christ?

- What is protecting your spiritual heart? "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:13
What is protecting your spiritual heart? Are the things of this world; money, fame, success, position, status, possessions, etc.; to fill, satisfy and protect your heart? The earthly heart may be insured by earthly things, but does this spiritual heart have eternal insurance? Are we allowing the protective materials to be the blood of Jesus Christ? Are we letting Him fill ever empty space and satisfy every desire, every dream and every passion? Is He our joy in tough times? Is He our strength when we are weak? Through Him are we able to love unconditionally the person we can't stand to be around? What is protecting your spiritual heart?

All of these "hearts" are related, connected and work together. We have to know which heart is the most important and which one deserves the highest rung on the ladder of priorities. If we allow Christ to be the keeper of our spiritual heart and we let him be our heart's protector, then we have a 100% guarantee 'protection policy' through the Holy Spirit. Jesus Christ is the only one through whom we can have complete satisfaction.

Once the status of our spiritual heart is set in place, then our emotions will follow. They won't be the leading force behind our actions, motives and responses, Christ will.

"Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought with a price. Therefore honor God with your body." I Corinthians 6:19-20
Our bodies are God's temple. It is in this body that our physical heart resides. Therefore since we want to honor God and we want our 'temples' to bring glory to Him, we will work to ensure we take care of our body and our physical heart.

It all connects!

I wish I could say that I gave the right answer to these questions...but I'd be lying if I said that I did. This one line from a song made me stop and think about my heart's protection. Is my heart being truly protected? Am I doing my best to ensure it's protection?

"Have you ever thought about what protects your heart...?"

animal crackers and sprite

2008-03-15T16:03:00.000-04:00

Ok, time for an update...

(sorry it's taken so long, miss stephanie)

Today is March 15th. It has been in DC for 8 weeks (56 days) and I have 7 weeks (49 days) left to go. Some days go by really slowly and I wish I was back at home, but at other times, the days go by so fast and I'm loving what I am doing!!

Being in DC has been so great! I am learning a lot academically. I spend a lot of my time reading and studying, and most of what I have read, I like and find really interesting! I am getting to hear from a lot of brilliant speakers and have gotten to sit under some great minds who have helped to bring change and who have spoken out on issues that are important to the American family.

I have also been learning a lot while doing my internship. I am interning in the communications department and I work for Bethanie Swendsen, who is the radio show producer and the DC news correspondent for the radio show. Through this internship, I have had the opportunity to do a wide variety of things, from taking pictures at events, to doing some video work, to setting up meetings, to helping write PSAs, to helping in the studio. This past weekend was the National Religious Broadcasters Convention and Washington Watch Radio had a booth, so I got to travel to Nashville, TN for a few days to attend the conference and work in the booth! That was an awesome experience, getting to meet people from all over the world and learn about what they are doing was great!

Overall, things have been going swell! I have had so many blessings along the way:

I have been blessed with two of the coolest girls ever as roommates! We all get along so smoothly. Which is great because we are with each other 24/7. But we love hanging out together and going places and doing things together. We were just saying today that when it is time for us to leave, we are all going to be really sad...I'm trying not to think of that. :(
My best friend lives only an hour and a half away from me!! I have been able to go and visit her and spend a few weekends at her house. That is a huge blessing because it is nice to be able to get out of the city and spend time with her!
I got to go home for about 48 hours! I was able to drive down with some friends and see my family and spend a day with my mom! Being home and being with my family was so relaxing and refreshing! I definitely miss them!
A very special person came up to DC for a few days to visit me! We walked all over DC and got to go to a few museums and hit up some of the sites that neither one of us had been to. It was nice to sit together with a cup of coffee and talk or just watch the people go by. :)
I got to travel to Nashville for a few days! While I was there I got to spend an evening with my cousin Tiffany! She is such an awesome woman and most definitely a role model for me! She is so encouraging and such a blast to hang out with!

Not only has this time been exciting, filled with new adventures and new things to learn, it has also been challenging and stretching:

I have had to learn to adjust to a new city where there is something going on at all hours and where the people don't really care about anyone other than themselves. As well as learning where everything is and how to get around the city whether it be by walking, the metro or a taxi.
I've also had to learn to work with people who I don't necessarily agree with. And learn how to accept their differences and how to work around and with them.
Being in an environment where everyone is at least a junior in college or has already graduated sets the academic bar pretty high. So in that sense, I have had to work hard to make sure I am meeting that expectation.

But through it all, God has been gracious and has been incredibly faithful! He has provided for my every need and in many times has given me more than I deserve! Even though things sometimes get hard, I have such a peace that I am exactly where God wants me to be. That alone gives me joy and satisfaction!

Until next time,
Kiana

P.S. my two new favorite things are animal crackers and sprite! hence the name of the post!

Pic: Elizabeth, me and Paul at the DC zoo! There wasn't much to see that day, but we did get to see the pandas, the elephants and a hippo. I don't know about the other two, but I was happy with that! And I was happy on this day because I got to spend the day with two of my favorite people , my best friend and boyfriend!

Picture at the top: a park bench that I pass on my way to work everyday.

2008-01-21T20:24:00.000-05:00

Right now I am sitting in my apartment with my two roommates...in Washington, DC!

How did that happen? Let me rewind back to Tuesday.

I received a call from Mrs. Cocks telling me about the Witherspoon Fellowship (for more information go to www.witherspoonfellowship.org). She asked if I would be interested in attending. I said I wasn't sure. So she gave me the director's number to call and get all the information. I did. Mr. Morrison was incredibly enthusiastic and helpful. After the conversation, I realized that I would be interested in doing something like this and the thought that this could happen excited me. But it also scared me a bit!

So after talking it over, getting advice and perspective and praying a lot, I decide that this was a step I was going to take and I felt like this was the direction that the Lord was leading.

Wednesday: I made the call that had my final decision.

Thursday: I got the call back saying I was accepted. Got all the final details. Went and got all the things I would need.

Friday: Took care of last minute details. Had dinner with family and special friends. Midnight on Friday, got in the car and started out for DC.

Saturday: Found my apartment and unpacked and got settled. Went and stayed the night with my best friend!

Sunday: Had lunch with the Fredettes. Drove back up to DC. Met my roommates and some of the other interns. Had a cup of tea. And am now writing this.

I guess you could say that life over the past couple of days has gone by so fast! So fast in fact that I haven't even had time to tell people or to process the whole thing.

One thing is for sure, God has been so faithful and gracious. He has given me so much peace about moving and has provided every step of the way! My apartment is so close to everything. The location is great and I feel very safe. My roommates and I are getting along great! It has been amazing to see His hand at work.

It was a tough decision to make in only a little bit of time. But I know in the end that this is right where God wants me. I am excited about all I am going to get to learn and experience! I am a little nervous, but that's normal. Or so I'm told.

Just a couple of thanks you!

Mom and Dad: Thank you for your words of wisdom and encouragement and support! There is no way I could have done this without you! Thank you for driving me here, getting me settled and making sure I had all I need to be prepared! You two are amazing and I am so blessed to have you as parents! I feel prepared and ready because of you two!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!! Love you both so much!! (and Dad, I'll let you know about next weekend) ;)

Elizabeth: Thank you letting me scream and freak out to you! Thank you for letting me and my family stay at your apartment! Thank you for spending the day with me! Thank you for taking me back to DC. Thanks for being the most amazing best friend in the world!!

Paul: Thank you for being so supportive and for being a source of encouragement to me. I so appreciate your prayers and thank you for always helping me see the "advantages" in everything!

So that's the story! I am now living in DC and I will be here till May. If you are ever in DC...give me a call and we'll go do something!!

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

The "Bests" of 2007

2008-01-05T23:15:00.000-05:00

:year in review:

best planet: the earth
best travel buddy: Bryn Piper!
best shopping buddy: Auntie CinDee and Mom
best blog: Miss Stephanie's
best person to jump in a nasty lake with: Haylee Linduff
best boss: The Cappy
best friends: those 5 girls and 8 guys that i traveled with...and Liz!
best cd: August Rush Soundtrack
best song to make fun of while secretly liking: The Pirate's Song (I like to sing and dance...)
best book: My Hands Came Away Red by: Lisa McKay
best new state: Colorado
best new city: Columbus
best month(s): April, August and September
best new movies: Bourne Ultimatum and Ocean's Thirteen
best old movie(s): White Christmas, She's The Man and Italian Job
best tv show: The Office and So You Think You Can Dance
best coffee drink: iced cafe americano
best non coffee: drink: earl grey tea
best starbucks locations: Gainesville :)
best tea: earl grey and joy
best surprise: Mom and Dad going to SA to see Kayla and a surprise that someone special gave me in the parking lot of a certain starbucks :)
best new word: Chilax (ok so it might have been around a while. but it's new to me)
best new clothes color: purple
best vacation: Florida trip with the intern team!
best activity: Watching Reba with the family.
best day: December 3rd.
best wedding: The Fredette's Wedding
best dance: Kayla's audition piece
best couple: me and Paul
best ethnic food: Lebanese food. (thank you, elijah!)
best class: HI, GAIII, and LA
best concert: Nickel's Farewell Tour in Atlanta.
best guy: Paul :) my brothers and Dad
best girl(s): Kayla and Mom
best road trip: going to New Mexico with Liz and Jared for Trina and Andre's wedding!
best longest road trip: Driving to Colorado Springs from Kansas City! yikes!
best shoes: Converse high-tops
best airport: Atlanta
best host home: The Cocks' house
best college football team: The Hawaii Warriors!!

thanks for all the great memories, guys and gals!!

looking forward to 2008 and all the fun new "bests" that it holds!
So long 2007...Hello 2008!

p.s. thanks Katie!

:Second Post:

2007-12-14T23:06:00.000-05:00

When I last posted I was in Brighton, TN, with the Perdue family!

Since I've been home a lot has happened!

:I went to the REVOLVE Tour 2007:
:Got to see my cousin, Tiffany!:
:Spent the weekend with my mom and sister!:
:Went to lunch and coffee with a friend:
:Am officially being courted by Paul Holley:
:Decorated the house for Christmas:
:Had many guests at our house:
:Saw a great movie:
:And am enjoying lots of family time:

God has definitely been so gracious and had been so faithful!

Merry Christmas, everyone!
May God bless you all!

trying something new...

2007-11-27T23:47:00.000-05:00

We'll I'm going to give this a try and see how it works.

Maybe I'll keep it up...maybe I'll end it.

We'll see...

*kiana

die Reise - The Journey

What's In Your Tool Bag?

Run Your Butt Off - Week 1

Peachtree Road Race 2011

{Definition}

def·i·ni·tion

Yes! I am counting down!

Gifts

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

God is Good

Prayer

A Forever Family

IQ Question Answers

Sample IQ Questions

Sometimes...It's Hard

Sick Day Movies

Blogging Tips

Don't Ever Say Never!

Best Friends

Better Late Than Never

Breathing

die Reise

Friday Night Lights

Start of a new school year...

B.E.A.C.H.

Me and God

Reflections

NUM8ERS

...Love...

All of You

First Day of School

Bullet Points

For The Ladies

What?!

Whirlyball: Part II

Whirlyball!

I AM HOME!!!!

Two Fridays in a Row!

____ Days Till...

Have you ever thought about what protects your heart?

animal crackers and sprite

The "Bests" of 2007

:Second Post:

trying something new...