So, here's the thing. I go to a private Christian university (if you don't know that by now. . . well, you don't pay attention very well), and within that community (an amazing one I might add) the term "love languages" gets tossed around in everyday conversation. I'm not saying that as a bad thing, just as an observation. If you don't know what love languages are, they are basically 5 ways that people can express love to you, and there are lots of online resources to find out which of these love languages speaks most to you personally. The five love languages are quality time, acts of service, gifts, words of affirmation, and physical touch. All of these love languages are equally important, but today, I want to focus on physical touch.
Physical touch is my number one love language by a long shot. But here's the thing I've noticed, it's also the most controversial love language. It's not hard to see why, because it can so easily get out of hand. However, I want to attempt to debunk some of the stigma that comes with being someone whose love language is physical touch.
First, foremost, and most bluntly put, it does not make you a slut if physical touch is your love language. You do not have to make out with and hang all over people to feel loved. In all honesty, a pat on the arm, or a hug when you say hi, or even a high five are all wonderful ways in which you can feel loved without crossing boundaries of physical touch.
However, having physical touch as your love language comes with some things you need to realize about yourself. Because physical touch is what makes you feel the most loved, it also makes you more vulnerable to getting caught up in the physical touch. It makes it that much easier to go from sitting closely to cuddling. It also means that all of that carries much more weight for you than the average person. It never occurred to me that cuddling could be a casual thing, (you cuddle once because it felt nice and you move on?) because to me, that means so much. I used to complain about how I have never held hands with a guy, but as I've gotten older, I realized that even something as simple as that can hold so much meaning to someone whose love language is physical touch. Which is why it's a blessing that I have been spared that attachment to people who would just end up leaving after all is said and done.
But, enough of my rambling. To sum things up, physical touch is a valid love language, it just means that certain things need to be viewed with a lens of caution, and it absolutely, 100% does not mean you are a slut or will inevitably become one. So, people, can we please stop saying that?
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
Saturday, September 19, 2015
CrazyGirl Observes Choices
Sometimes life does this crazy thing where it gives you two very noticeable choices; the easy way or the scary way. As I've gotten older, I've started realizing that the easy way doesn't always warrant the results we desire. Sometimes, you have to make the scary choice.
Today, I went out with some friends and we hiked our way to some really neat waterfalls. Now, you need to know a few things for this to make any sense to you, first, these waterfalls are popular because you can jump off of them, second, I am utterly terrified of heights (I literally had a panic attack after trying a ropes course when I was in high school).
Since I was there, I was presented with my two choices. The Easy Way: hang out at the bottom of the falls and cheer on my friends as they all jumped one by one. The Scary Way: Climb to the top, look over the edge, and jump.
Again, remember that I am terrified of heights. I decided that if I was going to jump I needed to do it before I psyched myself out, so I climbed up the little trail to the top, looked over the edge, and panicked. It was SO FAR down. My heart was beating out of my chest and I knew if I didn't go soon, I was going to have to make the walk of shame back down the path I had come up. One of my friends jumped, and I told myself I needed to go next. So, trying not to shake, I stepped up to the rock, and looked down. Cue the panic. Most of me wanted to turn around and run back down the path. In my head, I kept repeating "What am I doing? What was I thinking? I can't do this. I can't do this. I can't do this." I turned to one of my friends and seriously considered bolting for the path behind her, but she was encouraging and said "Katie, you can do this. You just have to do a countdown," so I took a deep breath and turned back towards the water below while she continued counting.
Her: "3"
My brain: "ARE YOU CRAZY? You can't jump. But if you don't, you have to walk back down the path."
Her: "2"
My brain: "You aren't actually going to jump are you? That's insanity. You'll be fine if you don't jump."
Her: "1"
I took one last deep breath, felt every muscle in my body tighten, and pushed off. Then, suddenly, I was free falling, which is both exhilarating and terrifying at the same time. It seemed to take forever to hit the water, but when I finally did, I realized just what I had done. I jumped. I made the scary choice.
Sometimes, in our daily lives, there are choices that are scary, even if you know it's the only way to get the desired result, it's still scary. If you are in a position where the right choice is the scary choice, I want to encourage you to take a deep breath and jump.
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl
Today, I went out with some friends and we hiked our way to some really neat waterfalls. Now, you need to know a few things for this to make any sense to you, first, these waterfalls are popular because you can jump off of them, second, I am utterly terrified of heights (I literally had a panic attack after trying a ropes course when I was in high school).
Since I was there, I was presented with my two choices. The Easy Way: hang out at the bottom of the falls and cheer on my friends as they all jumped one by one. The Scary Way: Climb to the top, look over the edge, and jump.
Again, remember that I am terrified of heights. I decided that if I was going to jump I needed to do it before I psyched myself out, so I climbed up the little trail to the top, looked over the edge, and panicked. It was SO FAR down. My heart was beating out of my chest and I knew if I didn't go soon, I was going to have to make the walk of shame back down the path I had come up. One of my friends jumped, and I told myself I needed to go next. So, trying not to shake, I stepped up to the rock, and looked down. Cue the panic. Most of me wanted to turn around and run back down the path. In my head, I kept repeating "What am I doing? What was I thinking? I can't do this. I can't do this. I can't do this." I turned to one of my friends and seriously considered bolting for the path behind her, but she was encouraging and said "Katie, you can do this. You just have to do a countdown," so I took a deep breath and turned back towards the water below while she continued counting.
Her: "3"
My brain: "ARE YOU CRAZY? You can't jump. But if you don't, you have to walk back down the path."
Her: "2"
My brain: "You aren't actually going to jump are you? That's insanity. You'll be fine if you don't jump."
Her: "1"
I took one last deep breath, felt every muscle in my body tighten, and pushed off. Then, suddenly, I was free falling, which is both exhilarating and terrifying at the same time. It seemed to take forever to hit the water, but when I finally did, I realized just what I had done. I jumped. I made the scary choice.
Sometimes, in our daily lives, there are choices that are scary, even if you know it's the only way to get the desired result, it's still scary. If you are in a position where the right choice is the scary choice, I want to encourage you to take a deep breath and jump.
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl
Monday, August 10, 2015
CrazyGirl observes the Future
Fun fact about me: I actually quite like discovering new things about myself or how certain aspects of my personality tie into different parts of my life. I like doing things like taking the Myers-Briggs personality test, and finding that I am 110% an ENFP (another fun fact: I am literally 100% extroverted. . .shocker, right??) or taking the love languages test and discovering that while physical touch is my number one by a long shot, acts of service are my lowest by a long shot. I like discovering new things to be passionate about and to throw my energy into, like salsa dancing, painting, and (surprise surprise) blogging. Sometimes it's hard to admit things about yourself, even TO yourself. When I was younger, I didn't like to think I had a flair for the dramatics (I most definitely did, and probably still do). In junior high and high school, I hated admitting that I lacked self-confidence and felt annoying all the time. But, being able to acknowledge and address these things has helped me to become the person I am today. Admitting something about yourself to yourself is the first step towards changing what you might perceive as a negative, into a positive. Being self-conscious and unsure of myself was no fun while it was happening, but it also gave me the experience and perspective to relate to others experiencing the same thing and attempt to equip them with truths that can alter their perspective of themselves.
Lately, I have had lots of conversations that have turned into self-reflections. I have realized some areas of my life that I need to pay a little attention to, so that I can adjust them to help me better reflect Christ in my daily living. I have also realized some areas that maybe I need to take a step away from so that I can focus on other things, more important things.
I have noticed lately, that I interrupt. I don't do this to be rude, and most of the time, I honestly don't realize I'm doing it. But, someone will say something that will trigger a thought and before I can stop myself the thought pops out of my mouth, regardless of whether or not you were finished. I definitely need to work on that. I also pass snap judgments about others, without really stopping to think about it. And, a lot of the time, I unnecessarily vocalize these judgments.
But, this blog post isn't just about my shortcomings, and most of you don't want to read through all of those anyway (my siblings might). This post is also about growth. I have finally gotten into a habit of doing a devotion every night before bed. Not the quick "Oh, I read today's thing, I'm good. God, you saw that right? Right. Good." type thing I used to do when I said I was doing devotion. But, I've actually spent time praying and listening to God (which can be hard for me. . . I like to talk. . .A LOT), I have been immersing myself in the word (and actually finding that I can get just as lost in the Bible as I can one of my cheesy romance novels), and trying to seek God's will for every moment in my life, so that I can honor Him with my actions. And one of the biggest things is (and you can probably guess this if you have followed my blog for any solid amount of time) relationships. Try as I may, they seem to continuously slip into the number one priority in my life. And that needs to change. I'm not saying that if God brought a guy into my life tomorrow, I would be opposed to it, I mean that it would need to be God bringing that gentleman into my life and not me searching for him. Ever since my first day of kindergarten, when I walked into the classroom, set my eyes on a guy, and decided I liked him (and continued to like him through 6th grade), I have had the innate ability to become attached to people who don't see the same value in me. (Probably played a big part in my self-esteem issues). Whether it's the guy who sits next to me in class, or the girl I thought was my friend, I place value in relationships that aren't always two-sided. This is especially true when it comes to crushes. I don't even think I can count the number of times I walked in the front door after school and announced to my mom that I had found the guy I was going to marry (and at least 75% of them didn't realize I existed). Now, I know that I tend to be someone who tries to see the good in just about everyone (I'm not perfect, it doesn't always happen), and sometimes, I let that override red flags that suggest this may not be the greatest situation for my own emotional health. Which explains a lot of the crushes I had in high school. . . Anyway, not the point. The point is, I know I get attached really fast, even if the feelings aren't returned. Which is a big part of the reason I know I need to stop putting so much focus on relationships. Another reason is that for SO LONG, I viewed the lack of physical affection I had shared with guys to be this huge problem. I had convinced myself that it reflected something wrong with me. (I realize now, that God was protecting me from something that was much more dangerous that I had ever perceived it to be.) And lately, the topic of kissing has come up multiple times in multiple conversations with multiple different people. So, I started praying about it, and asking God about my perspective on kissing, and I realized something; if I can get so attached to someone with absolutely zero physical affection being shared, how much more attached will I get when physical affection takes place? That's a scary road to go down. Now, if you and I have ever had a conversation about kissing, and your first kiss, you've probably hear my little rant about how I have respect for people who can save their first kiss for their wedding day, but that won't ever be me, because let's be frank, having your first kiss in front of a bunch of people, after enduring the stress of a wedding, and then losing your virginity all in one day is a lot of pressure. But, lately I've realized that even that doesn't mean I need to go around kissing guys (which, if you would have asked me two weeks ago, if I would be okay with a guy I wasn't dating kissing me, I would have told you that as long as there was mutual interest, I would be totally fine with it). In fact, if I want to save my whole heart for the man I marry, I probably shouldn't kiss any other guys (and, let's be real, I don't like thinking about other girls kissing my future husband). So, in order to avoid a super awkward first kiss in front of a bunch of people (and don't try to tell me it won't be awkward, I am an incredibly awkward individual) I have decided that my first kiss needs to wait until I am engaged to marry the man I will spend the rest of my life with.
I'm not saying that this is the path for everyone. It never once says in the Bible that "You shalt not kiss until you are engaged." I am simply trying to share with you the process through which God and I came to that decision regarding my future together. I can't sit here and tell you that God doesn't want you to kiss your significant other, but I can tell you that it's a matter between you and God. Now, maybe this decision came a little easier to me since I haven't experienced much in the way of PDA, and I am still single. But, my suggestion to you is that if you feel God tugging at your heart, trying to get your attention, take a while to just listen. His plans are always greater than anything we could ever imagine for ourselves, and while the reasons don't make sense at first, there comes a time (although not guaranteed to be in this lifetime) when the reasons line up, and you understand why God said "NO" when you prayed for that certain circumstance (yeah, whenever I PRAYED with all my might that THIS guy might just kiss me, God said no). Things always turn out better when you listen to God first, instead of trying to do them your own way. Trust me.
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl
P.S. I recently came across a quote that goes something like this "My entire life can be summed up in one sentence: it didn't go as planned and that's okay." That's also a pretty good summary of this post.
Lately, I have had lots of conversations that have turned into self-reflections. I have realized some areas of my life that I need to pay a little attention to, so that I can adjust them to help me better reflect Christ in my daily living. I have also realized some areas that maybe I need to take a step away from so that I can focus on other things, more important things.
I have noticed lately, that I interrupt. I don't do this to be rude, and most of the time, I honestly don't realize I'm doing it. But, someone will say something that will trigger a thought and before I can stop myself the thought pops out of my mouth, regardless of whether or not you were finished. I definitely need to work on that. I also pass snap judgments about others, without really stopping to think about it. And, a lot of the time, I unnecessarily vocalize these judgments.
But, this blog post isn't just about my shortcomings, and most of you don't want to read through all of those anyway (my siblings might). This post is also about growth. I have finally gotten into a habit of doing a devotion every night before bed. Not the quick "Oh, I read today's thing, I'm good. God, you saw that right? Right. Good." type thing I used to do when I said I was doing devotion. But, I've actually spent time praying and listening to God (which can be hard for me. . . I like to talk. . .A LOT), I have been immersing myself in the word (and actually finding that I can get just as lost in the Bible as I can one of my cheesy romance novels), and trying to seek God's will for every moment in my life, so that I can honor Him with my actions. And one of the biggest things is (and you can probably guess this if you have followed my blog for any solid amount of time) relationships. Try as I may, they seem to continuously slip into the number one priority in my life. And that needs to change. I'm not saying that if God brought a guy into my life tomorrow, I would be opposed to it, I mean that it would need to be God bringing that gentleman into my life and not me searching for him. Ever since my first day of kindergarten, when I walked into the classroom, set my eyes on a guy, and decided I liked him (and continued to like him through 6th grade), I have had the innate ability to become attached to people who don't see the same value in me. (Probably played a big part in my self-esteem issues). Whether it's the guy who sits next to me in class, or the girl I thought was my friend, I place value in relationships that aren't always two-sided. This is especially true when it comes to crushes. I don't even think I can count the number of times I walked in the front door after school and announced to my mom that I had found the guy I was going to marry (and at least 75% of them didn't realize I existed). Now, I know that I tend to be someone who tries to see the good in just about everyone (I'm not perfect, it doesn't always happen), and sometimes, I let that override red flags that suggest this may not be the greatest situation for my own emotional health. Which explains a lot of the crushes I had in high school. . . Anyway, not the point. The point is, I know I get attached really fast, even if the feelings aren't returned. Which is a big part of the reason I know I need to stop putting so much focus on relationships. Another reason is that for SO LONG, I viewed the lack of physical affection I had shared with guys to be this huge problem. I had convinced myself that it reflected something wrong with me. (I realize now, that God was protecting me from something that was much more dangerous that I had ever perceived it to be.) And lately, the topic of kissing has come up multiple times in multiple conversations with multiple different people. So, I started praying about it, and asking God about my perspective on kissing, and I realized something; if I can get so attached to someone with absolutely zero physical affection being shared, how much more attached will I get when physical affection takes place? That's a scary road to go down. Now, if you and I have ever had a conversation about kissing, and your first kiss, you've probably hear my little rant about how I have respect for people who can save their first kiss for their wedding day, but that won't ever be me, because let's be frank, having your first kiss in front of a bunch of people, after enduring the stress of a wedding, and then losing your virginity all in one day is a lot of pressure. But, lately I've realized that even that doesn't mean I need to go around kissing guys (which, if you would have asked me two weeks ago, if I would be okay with a guy I wasn't dating kissing me, I would have told you that as long as there was mutual interest, I would be totally fine with it). In fact, if I want to save my whole heart for the man I marry, I probably shouldn't kiss any other guys (and, let's be real, I don't like thinking about other girls kissing my future husband). So, in order to avoid a super awkward first kiss in front of a bunch of people (and don't try to tell me it won't be awkward, I am an incredibly awkward individual) I have decided that my first kiss needs to wait until I am engaged to marry the man I will spend the rest of my life with.
I'm not saying that this is the path for everyone. It never once says in the Bible that "You shalt not kiss until you are engaged." I am simply trying to share with you the process through which God and I came to that decision regarding my future together. I can't sit here and tell you that God doesn't want you to kiss your significant other, but I can tell you that it's a matter between you and God. Now, maybe this decision came a little easier to me since I haven't experienced much in the way of PDA, and I am still single. But, my suggestion to you is that if you feel God tugging at your heart, trying to get your attention, take a while to just listen. His plans are always greater than anything we could ever imagine for ourselves, and while the reasons don't make sense at first, there comes a time (although not guaranteed to be in this lifetime) when the reasons line up, and you understand why God said "NO" when you prayed for that certain circumstance (yeah, whenever I PRAYED with all my might that THIS guy might just kiss me, God said no). Things always turn out better when you listen to God first, instead of trying to do them your own way. Trust me.
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl
P.S. I recently came across a quote that goes something like this "My entire life can be summed up in one sentence: it didn't go as planned and that's okay." That's also a pretty good summary of this post.
Wednesday, August 5, 2015
CrazyGirl observes a Prideful Fall
So, if any of you know me on a fairly personal basis, you know that I really despise asking other people for help. There really is no logic behind it, considering that I actually like it when people ask me for help with things, but somewhere inside my rather odd brain, a conversation along the lines of this takes place:
Me: I probably shouldn't do this by myself, I should definitely ask for help. . . who might be available to help?
Brain: Whoa, whoa, whoa. You don't want to do that.
Me: Yeah, I actually do, I need the help.
Brain: But, if you ask for help, you might inconvenience them, and they might resent you for that.
Me: That's silly. They're my friends, I'm allowed to ask for help.
Brain: But that makes you pathetic and weak.
Me: Crud, you're right.
And then I end up doing something I should have asked for help on.
There is a reason that "acts of service" is low on my love languages list.
And today, I had to switch dorm rooms, which meant lugging all of my stuff from third floor to first floor. Doesn't seem that difficult, right? Well, when you recently had surgery, and have been working to strengthen that shoulder, but have only achieved an 8 pound dumbbell, things get a little tricky. Which is why I had the above conversation with myself.
Luckily, I have some friends who know that I occasionally (okay, ALWAYS) talk myself out of asking for help and they offered it. Which was a huge blessing, and (sadly) extremely difficult for me to accept.
Well, after months of thinking I'm making this huge progress with my shoulder, and then suddenly being incapable of moving my own junk down two flights of stairs, my pride started to get injured, and I started to get stubborn. I began moving stuff I knew I shouldn't lift, I just didn't want to feel incompetent. My shoulder started to ache, and I ignored it, reminding myself that I didn't want to be pathetic. Stubbornly, I refused to take Advil until I started feeling a sharp stabbing pain towards the end of my scar. I finally broke down and took one of the stronger painkillers the doctor gave me when I reached the point that every stair was excruciating because it jarred my shoulder. But I didn't want to sit down or stop because I wanted to prove to myself that I wasn't pathetic.
Multiple people stopped me during those few hours of self-inflicted torture, to ask if I was okay and to ask if I needed help. And stupid, stubborn me told them I was fine and I didn't need help. Why? Because I didn't want to be pathetic in my own eyes.
I learned a few pretty important lessons tonight.
First, being stubborn comes with its own consequences, and I will probably experience those consequences for the next week.
Second, having limitations doesn't make you pathetic, it makes you human.
Third, real friends will not resent you for asking for help.
Fourth, I have a God who sends some pretty amazing and insightful people my way, who refuse to let me be too stubborn by telling me that I am going to learn to accept love in all the love languages including acts of service.
And finally, God always provides. He provided me help MULTIPLE times, I was just too stubborn to take it. I mean, He might as well have whacked me over the head with a brick that reads "Allow them to help, you idiot." But, silly, strange, and downright obnoxious human pride stopped me from accepting the help. And for what? To prove to myself that I could lift a box? To show myself I wasn't pathetic? Honestly, I feel like my stubbornness just made me even more pathetic. I was too prideful to accept the help I knew I needed, despite the fact that literally my entire body was screaming at me for what I was doing.
All in all, I learned my limitations, and realized that pride can make me a real idiot. I need to learn to humble myself enough to ask for the things I need. Like help dragging boxes down two flights of stairs.
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl
Me: I probably shouldn't do this by myself, I should definitely ask for help. . . who might be available to help?
Brain: Whoa, whoa, whoa. You don't want to do that.
Me: Yeah, I actually do, I need the help.
Brain: But, if you ask for help, you might inconvenience them, and they might resent you for that.
Me: That's silly. They're my friends, I'm allowed to ask for help.
Brain: But that makes you pathetic and weak.
Me: Crud, you're right.
And then I end up doing something I should have asked for help on.
There is a reason that "acts of service" is low on my love languages list.
And today, I had to switch dorm rooms, which meant lugging all of my stuff from third floor to first floor. Doesn't seem that difficult, right? Well, when you recently had surgery, and have been working to strengthen that shoulder, but have only achieved an 8 pound dumbbell, things get a little tricky. Which is why I had the above conversation with myself.
Luckily, I have some friends who know that I occasionally (okay, ALWAYS) talk myself out of asking for help and they offered it. Which was a huge blessing, and (sadly) extremely difficult for me to accept.
Well, after months of thinking I'm making this huge progress with my shoulder, and then suddenly being incapable of moving my own junk down two flights of stairs, my pride started to get injured, and I started to get stubborn. I began moving stuff I knew I shouldn't lift, I just didn't want to feel incompetent. My shoulder started to ache, and I ignored it, reminding myself that I didn't want to be pathetic. Stubbornly, I refused to take Advil until I started feeling a sharp stabbing pain towards the end of my scar. I finally broke down and took one of the stronger painkillers the doctor gave me when I reached the point that every stair was excruciating because it jarred my shoulder. But I didn't want to sit down or stop because I wanted to prove to myself that I wasn't pathetic.
Multiple people stopped me during those few hours of self-inflicted torture, to ask if I was okay and to ask if I needed help. And stupid, stubborn me told them I was fine and I didn't need help. Why? Because I didn't want to be pathetic in my own eyes.
I learned a few pretty important lessons tonight.
First, being stubborn comes with its own consequences, and I will probably experience those consequences for the next week.
Second, having limitations doesn't make you pathetic, it makes you human.
Third, real friends will not resent you for asking for help.
Fourth, I have a God who sends some pretty amazing and insightful people my way, who refuse to let me be too stubborn by telling me that I am going to learn to accept love in all the love languages including acts of service.
And finally, God always provides. He provided me help MULTIPLE times, I was just too stubborn to take it. I mean, He might as well have whacked me over the head with a brick that reads "Allow them to help, you idiot." But, silly, strange, and downright obnoxious human pride stopped me from accepting the help. And for what? To prove to myself that I could lift a box? To show myself I wasn't pathetic? Honestly, I feel like my stubbornness just made me even more pathetic. I was too prideful to accept the help I knew I needed, despite the fact that literally my entire body was screaming at me for what I was doing.
All in all, I learned my limitations, and realized that pride can make me a real idiot. I need to learn to humble myself enough to ask for the things I need. Like help dragging boxes down two flights of stairs.
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl
Wednesday, May 27, 2015
CrazyGirl observes Life Seasons
I'm sure that I've touched on the idea that life comes in seasons. Some more stressful or sad or overwhelming, others exciting, beautiful, and joyous. This past season in my life is coming to an end. And without a doubt, I can call it a season of stress. I took an overload of classes, didn't have an income (seeing as I couldn't work because of my shoulder being injured), and had physical therapy three times a week every week. Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays I was in class by 9 am and didn't stop until 5:30 when I finished PT. Tuesdays and Thursdays were lighter on the classes, but were crammed with homework, volunteer hours, and the semblance of a social life I was trying to maintain. Then, to add to the insanity, I had to get all of the pre-finals projects done BEFORE they were due, so that I could return home to have surgery on my injured shoulder. What we thought was one bone spur and some swelling in my ligaments (which would entail orthoscopic surgery) actually turned out to be four bone spurs (OUCH) and a large, purple, four inch long scar on my right shoulder. When I returned from surgery, it was time to jump straight back into everything, with the exception that I couldn't move my right arm (let's just say that 19 credits worth of left-handed note taking seemed rather daunting), luckily I had very understanding professors who allowed me to bring my computer for taking notes. But, that still left tests and homework to be done left-handed. Then, apparently I live up to my blog name, because I added a job on top of everything else. Stress levels accumulated during finals week, when I was in charge of two kids all week, as well as my finals, saying goodbye to all my friends for summer, and a few (including those I've known for 11 years now) for a long time (I refuse to say forever, because we have to see each other again). During all this, my sister announced that she was moving to Arkansas right after graduation. I was sad, stressed, and incredibly short tempered. This was not helped when two days before graduation, my summer job fell through, and I was unable to follow through with my summer plans. However, with graduation being the climax of the stress, summer arrived, and brought with it a season full of exciting changes.
First, I took some time to recuperate. Then I bought a car and went to pick it up (today actually). But the most exciting of the changes starts a LONG time ago, with two little girls who had no clue just how much they would end up meaning to each other. You see, when I was in kindergarten, and she was in preschool, I met the girl who is my best friend, my "puddin' cup," my Kayla-Poo. Two and a half years ago, she married the man of her dreams, and they moved away from me . . . to Italy. Which kind of sucks a lot. Instead of being a short walk away from each other, we now have an ocean between us, and a 9 hour time difference, that makes Skype calls difficult to schedule. But, that hasn't stopped us, and I am excited to say that I am going to be an "auntie" to their baby, due in November. A part of me is sad that I don't get to be right next to her through this new life season, but more of me is just so entirely excited for my wonderful friend and her husband. I pray blessings over them and their new family member. Auntie, can't wait to meet you.
First, I took some time to recuperate. Then I bought a car and went to pick it up (today actually). But the most exciting of the changes starts a LONG time ago, with two little girls who had no clue just how much they would end up meaning to each other. You see, when I was in kindergarten, and she was in preschool, I met the girl who is my best friend, my "puddin' cup," my Kayla-Poo. Two and a half years ago, she married the man of her dreams, and they moved away from me . . . to Italy. Which kind of sucks a lot. Instead of being a short walk away from each other, we now have an ocean between us, and a 9 hour time difference, that makes Skype calls difficult to schedule. But, that hasn't stopped us, and I am excited to say that I am going to be an "auntie" to their baby, due in November. A part of me is sad that I don't get to be right next to her through this new life season, but more of me is just so entirely excited for my wonderful friend and her husband. I pray blessings over them and their new family member. Auntie, can't wait to meet you.
Til Next Time,
(Aunt) CrazyGirl
Wednesday, February 4, 2015
CrazyGirl observes the Friendzone
So, unless you've been living under a rock your entire life (and possibly even then) you've noticed that guys and girls are, well, different. We differ in lots of way from dressing styles to fighting styles to our ideas on what counts as quality time. But, I've noticed that one of the biggest ways guys and girls differ is in their view on this wonderful thing we like to call "the friendzone."
To guys, the friendzone is seen as being close to death, not a place you EVER want to be, especially not when it comes to a girl you're attracted to. It's a fate worse than death to some guys, seeing it as always being super close to being more than friends, but actually stuck pining after a girl like a puppy dog while hearing about her heartbreak after heartbreak, knowing she'll never see you as dating material.
To girls (at least in my experience) the friendzone is actually a great place for a guy to be. ESPECIALLY if you're interested in him. You see, for a guy to jump from random acquaintance to boyfriend is actually pretty rare, and the chances of that working out in the long term are even more rare. Girls desire a close relationship with those they're dating, and being her friend first is a great way to get there. Girls tend to see guys in the friendzone (especially thoughtful guys in the friendzone) as guys they might consider dating, because they have built a firm foundation of friendship with the guy and feel like they connect on a deeper level. Of course, there are always the times the friendzone is used as a way to get rid of unwanted advances from a male friend, but usually that's pretty obvious because the girl will call you "buddy, pal, friend, etc." way more often than is natural. It's really not a great way to ward off undesired affection, because it leaves the guy with too much hope and that's not fair, it's a much better idea to just be straightforward and honest with the guy. But, if a girl introduces you to her gal pals as her "friend, so-and-so" it doesn't mean you are automatically not considered dating material. Because, let's be real, how awkward would it be if she introduced you as "the guy who is my friend right now because I'm still getting to know him but hopefully holds the potential to be my boyfriend because I find him really attractive especially as I get to know him, so-and-so"?
As a girl, I'm going to be real here. Yes, there will always be that first initial attraction. But, in the long run that doesn't mean much of anything. I can think of plenty of guys I was immediately attracted to who, after getting to know them, don't necessarily care to spend time around them. Then there are guys who I didn't immediately SWOON over, but after spending time getting to know them and hanging out with them, find them entirely attractive because they have not only physical attractiveness, but also I'm attracted to their personality, which, in the long run, is worth more than any physical attraction. Yes, physical attraction comes into play (I mean, heck, this could end up being the person you spend the rest of your life with, and that includes all of the physical aspects of marriage), but when a person's personality attracts you, you will find yourself more and more physically attracted to them as well. I'm not trying to sound all cliché here, but I'm actually speaking from the heart. It's refreshing to meet guys who still believe in being chivalrous, who still act like gentlemen, and most of all, (partially because it's so rare) it's great to meet guys who want to spend time getting to know you as a FRIEND first instead of rushing into the physical stuff, and only the physical stuff.
Guys, believe me when I say that the friendzone can actually be the best place to be.
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl
To guys, the friendzone is seen as being close to death, not a place you EVER want to be, especially not when it comes to a girl you're attracted to. It's a fate worse than death to some guys, seeing it as always being super close to being more than friends, but actually stuck pining after a girl like a puppy dog while hearing about her heartbreak after heartbreak, knowing she'll never see you as dating material.
To girls (at least in my experience) the friendzone is actually a great place for a guy to be. ESPECIALLY if you're interested in him. You see, for a guy to jump from random acquaintance to boyfriend is actually pretty rare, and the chances of that working out in the long term are even more rare. Girls desire a close relationship with those they're dating, and being her friend first is a great way to get there. Girls tend to see guys in the friendzone (especially thoughtful guys in the friendzone) as guys they might consider dating, because they have built a firm foundation of friendship with the guy and feel like they connect on a deeper level. Of course, there are always the times the friendzone is used as a way to get rid of unwanted advances from a male friend, but usually that's pretty obvious because the girl will call you "buddy, pal, friend, etc." way more often than is natural. It's really not a great way to ward off undesired affection, because it leaves the guy with too much hope and that's not fair, it's a much better idea to just be straightforward and honest with the guy. But, if a girl introduces you to her gal pals as her "friend, so-and-so" it doesn't mean you are automatically not considered dating material. Because, let's be real, how awkward would it be if she introduced you as "the guy who is my friend right now because I'm still getting to know him but hopefully holds the potential to be my boyfriend because I find him really attractive especially as I get to know him, so-and-so"?
As a girl, I'm going to be real here. Yes, there will always be that first initial attraction. But, in the long run that doesn't mean much of anything. I can think of plenty of guys I was immediately attracted to who, after getting to know them, don't necessarily care to spend time around them. Then there are guys who I didn't immediately SWOON over, but after spending time getting to know them and hanging out with them, find them entirely attractive because they have not only physical attractiveness, but also I'm attracted to their personality, which, in the long run, is worth more than any physical attraction. Yes, physical attraction comes into play (I mean, heck, this could end up being the person you spend the rest of your life with, and that includes all of the physical aspects of marriage), but when a person's personality attracts you, you will find yourself more and more physically attracted to them as well. I'm not trying to sound all cliché here, but I'm actually speaking from the heart. It's refreshing to meet guys who still believe in being chivalrous, who still act like gentlemen, and most of all, (partially because it's so rare) it's great to meet guys who want to spend time getting to know you as a FRIEND first instead of rushing into the physical stuff, and only the physical stuff.
Guys, believe me when I say that the friendzone can actually be the best place to be.
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl
Friday, January 30, 2015
CrazyGirl observes Social Media
So, if you know anything about me, you will quickly realize that I am completely and utterly addicted to social media. If I have spare time on my hands, you can usually find me browsing Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. I get really excited when someone likes a picture, or leaves a comment, or retweets something I posted. But, lately, I have started to become more and more disenchanted with the whole realm of social media.
First off, it is an addiction plain and simple. And addictions aren't healthy. If I want to be living a full and healthy life, it needs to be out in the world doing real things and enjoying every moment, not sitting by myself reading about everyone else's life on a phone screen. Or planning things in life on Pinterest. It's just unhealthy.
Secondly, social media has become the new way to have friendships. You can be "best friends" with someone, and never actually have to hang out with them or use your vocal chords to have a conversation. It has changed the entire dynamic of friendships. Someone got engaged? Great! I saw it on Facebook. Someone is having a baby? Yeah. I saw the announcement on Facebook. What happened to the days when being someone's friend meant getting together for coffee or at the very least gracing them with a phone call to talk about something big, important, and life-changing? I love my friends, but I don't want to have to find out every detail of their lives by looking at their Facebook or Twitter. I want to sit down and have coffee, and let them talk about whatever they want to update me on. I want to go to dinner and see their face when they announce that they're engaged. I don't want an inbox message or to see the status update telling me all about this exciting part of their life, I want us BOTH to be able to live it.
Third, I am quickly realizing that the people I'm friends with on Facebook says something about me. Whether or not I intend it, what THEY are posting is reflected through me. When my friend opens up my Facebook as a joke to post a "Hacked. Lol." status, I don't want them to have to see the f-bomb a thousand times, or see a half-naked woman that you liked or shared. I don't want to see it either, but sadly, a good portion of my "friends" are only still friends on social media because it would cause more drama to unfriend them than to just ignore their posts. But, I'm tired of letting social media dictate my life. If I don't want to see that, why should I have to?
My fourth and final point, and also the biggest point of this post, came to me after a specifically challenging chapel today. You see, the speaker talked about how we so often see ourselves doing something other that what we are called to do. Whether you are called to be a teacher, a preacher, a nurse, or a trash man you are still called to be a light for Christ. This doesn't just mean on Sundays or during Bible study, it means all the time, every moment. You know when you just really want to smack something (or someone) because you are so annoyed? Don't do it. Remember that even in that moment you are called to be a Christ-like example. This includes in our social media. Now, I hope and pray that the stuff I'm posting on social media isn't considered inappropriate by any means, but I don't just want it to be considered appropriate, I want it to reflect and glorify a God who died to save me from my sins, who wants to heal my hurts, who catches every tear I cry, who has a wonderful and glorious plan for my life (greater than anything I could ever imagine for myself), and when I look at my social media profiles through that lens, I see just how short I fall. My Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram glorify me (who is worthy of no glory) and NOT my God who deserves ALL the glory. It has become about what the audience I am portraying myself to wants to see and not about whether or not it is glorifying to God.
For the reasons listed above, I am choosing to pursue a new season in my life, one that does not involve being glued to my phone, or worried about what I'm going to Tweet next. This is a season of cleansing and changing what I am doing in my own life so that I can rid myself of distractions, pursue a much closer relationship with my Savior, and actually LIVE my life, not view it through a phone screen.
I'm not going to lie, I am REALLY not looking forward to giving up my social media. I stay in contact with friends that way. (Sort of). It provides a good distraction when I might actually *gasp* have to WAIT for something. And let's be real, IT'S FUN. But, my life is not about me, it's not about the number of followers, likes, or retweets. My life purpose is to glorify and pursue the God who loves me and pursues me even with my flaws. And, frankly, social media is holding me back from that. So, here goes nothing . . .
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl
First off, it is an addiction plain and simple. And addictions aren't healthy. If I want to be living a full and healthy life, it needs to be out in the world doing real things and enjoying every moment, not sitting by myself reading about everyone else's life on a phone screen. Or planning things in life on Pinterest. It's just unhealthy.
Secondly, social media has become the new way to have friendships. You can be "best friends" with someone, and never actually have to hang out with them or use your vocal chords to have a conversation. It has changed the entire dynamic of friendships. Someone got engaged? Great! I saw it on Facebook. Someone is having a baby? Yeah. I saw the announcement on Facebook. What happened to the days when being someone's friend meant getting together for coffee or at the very least gracing them with a phone call to talk about something big, important, and life-changing? I love my friends, but I don't want to have to find out every detail of their lives by looking at their Facebook or Twitter. I want to sit down and have coffee, and let them talk about whatever they want to update me on. I want to go to dinner and see their face when they announce that they're engaged. I don't want an inbox message or to see the status update telling me all about this exciting part of their life, I want us BOTH to be able to live it.
Third, I am quickly realizing that the people I'm friends with on Facebook says something about me. Whether or not I intend it, what THEY are posting is reflected through me. When my friend opens up my Facebook as a joke to post a "Hacked. Lol." status, I don't want them to have to see the f-bomb a thousand times, or see a half-naked woman that you liked or shared. I don't want to see it either, but sadly, a good portion of my "friends" are only still friends on social media because it would cause more drama to unfriend them than to just ignore their posts. But, I'm tired of letting social media dictate my life. If I don't want to see that, why should I have to?
My fourth and final point, and also the biggest point of this post, came to me after a specifically challenging chapel today. You see, the speaker talked about how we so often see ourselves doing something other that what we are called to do. Whether you are called to be a teacher, a preacher, a nurse, or a trash man you are still called to be a light for Christ. This doesn't just mean on Sundays or during Bible study, it means all the time, every moment. You know when you just really want to smack something (or someone) because you are so annoyed? Don't do it. Remember that even in that moment you are called to be a Christ-like example. This includes in our social media. Now, I hope and pray that the stuff I'm posting on social media isn't considered inappropriate by any means, but I don't just want it to be considered appropriate, I want it to reflect and glorify a God who died to save me from my sins, who wants to heal my hurts, who catches every tear I cry, who has a wonderful and glorious plan for my life (greater than anything I could ever imagine for myself), and when I look at my social media profiles through that lens, I see just how short I fall. My Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram glorify me (who is worthy of no glory) and NOT my God who deserves ALL the glory. It has become about what the audience I am portraying myself to wants to see and not about whether or not it is glorifying to God.
For the reasons listed above, I am choosing to pursue a new season in my life, one that does not involve being glued to my phone, or worried about what I'm going to Tweet next. This is a season of cleansing and changing what I am doing in my own life so that I can rid myself of distractions, pursue a much closer relationship with my Savior, and actually LIVE my life, not view it through a phone screen.
I'm not going to lie, I am REALLY not looking forward to giving up my social media. I stay in contact with friends that way. (Sort of). It provides a good distraction when I might actually *gasp* have to WAIT for something. And let's be real, IT'S FUN. But, my life is not about me, it's not about the number of followers, likes, or retweets. My life purpose is to glorify and pursue the God who loves me and pursues me even with my flaws. And, frankly, social media is holding me back from that. So, here goes nothing . . .
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl
Tuesday, January 6, 2015
CrazyGirl observes A New Opportunity
Alright, so any of you who know me well (or have spent about five minutes talking to me) know that I LOVE working with kids. I'm currently studying to become a kindergarten teacher, and am praying that someday I will have the opportunity to become a stay-at-home mom. I am that weirdo who sees a baby in public, and I immediately wave, make faces, play peek-a-boo, or all three. My entire future, is basically based off of my passion for this up and coming generation.
BUT, as I posted last time, I currently am experiencing some . . . technical difficulties with my shoulder, which is making it hard to find work. But, I also serve an amazing God who blessed me with some talent (or so I'm told) and a love for some crafty things. So, in this new and different season in my life, I am selling some knick knacks.
Originally, I was just going to sell hair bows. They're fun for me to make, and I can do it without much pain in my shoulder. Then, I made this really cool garland for my Gramma for Christmas, and realized I could do those too. And, after painting some canvases for my parents, I realized that custom canvas art is in high demand. So, it is with great joy, excitement, and an teensy weensy bit of nervousness that I get to announce the launch of my official Facebook page, the Katie Lady Bow-tique.
Honestly, entering into this season of classes, topped with physical therapy, the looming possibility of surgery, and the inability to get a job in food service or retail, I was extremely concerned and frightened at what it would bring. I'm still nervous about my pending surgery, but I am overjoyed that I have the ability to give this a shot and try something I never thought I'd have the opportunity to do.
So, as I enter a season of new things, I can honestly say that I have never been more grateful for the support and love of the people around me. Especially my family, who is so encouraging and loving and supportive.
Thank you all!
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl
BUT, as I posted last time, I currently am experiencing some . . . technical difficulties with my shoulder, which is making it hard to find work. But, I also serve an amazing God who blessed me with some talent (or so I'm told) and a love for some crafty things. So, in this new and different season in my life, I am selling some knick knacks.
Originally, I was just going to sell hair bows. They're fun for me to make, and I can do it without much pain in my shoulder. Then, I made this really cool garland for my Gramma for Christmas, and realized I could do those too. And, after painting some canvases for my parents, I realized that custom canvas art is in high demand. So, it is with great joy, excitement, and an teensy weensy bit of nervousness that I get to announce the launch of my official Facebook page, the Katie Lady Bow-tique.
Honestly, entering into this season of classes, topped with physical therapy, the looming possibility of surgery, and the inability to get a job in food service or retail, I was extremely concerned and frightened at what it would bring. I'm still nervous about my pending surgery, but I am overjoyed that I have the ability to give this a shot and try something I never thought I'd have the opportunity to do.
So, as I enter a season of new things, I can honestly say that I have never been more grateful for the support and love of the people around me. Especially my family, who is so encouraging and loving and supportive.
Thank you all!
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
CrazyGirl observes Lessons
So, I generally try to keep my blog posts on a happy note. But, sometimes they hit a serious note, and tonight, I'm going to get real.
I hate asking people for help. It sucks to admit that my body is not working the way it's supposed to, and there's nothing I can do about it.
You see, this past summer, my shoulder started to ache, then the ache got worse, then it became a sharp pain. Figuring that when I got back to school and quit using it as often it would stop hurting, we basically ignored the pain. Then, I got to school, but the pain didn't stop. In fact, it was just getting worse. After an xray, a failed MRI (turns out I'm actually quite claustrophobic), and finally a successful MRI, it was discovered that I not only had torn two ligaments in my shoulder, but I had fluid buildup in a ligament, a swollen tendon, and a bone spur.
Needless to say, my shoulder wasn't happy with me. Trying to avoid surgery, if possible, the surgeon gave me a cortisone shot. While it did improve my range of motion, it didn't ease my pain at all. Then, one night as I was leaving class, I oh-so-gracefully (in case you don't know me, that is TOTAL sarcasm. It was far from graceful) slipped down some stairs, and hit my shoulder on my way down, causing even more pain.
But, I'm not here to write you all a sob story or get your pity (although your prayers would be much appreciated). I'm telling you all this because, even though it's inconvenient and unpleasant at times, this is a small hiccup. God has a lesson for me somewhere in this injury. Whether it's humbling myself enough to actually ask for prayer and help when I struggle with simple, everyday tasks or just trying to show me how much I still have to be thankful for, I know that God will bring some good out of this. I'm constantly reminded of all the wonderful things in my life. I have some of the greatest doctors, and even though I dread going to appointments regarding my shoulder, I know I'm lucky to have the healthcare I have. I have wonderful friends and an amazing family who all keep me in their prayers. I was lucky enough to have my baby brother come home for Christmas even though we didn't think he was going to make it home this year. I am going to my dream school to pursue a degree that will allow me to teach. I could make this list go on and on, but I don't think any of you would feel like reading all that.
Long story short, despite struggles, I am still deeply blessed, and thankful for a loving God who reveals my blessings to me daily.
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl❤
I hate asking people for help. It sucks to admit that my body is not working the way it's supposed to, and there's nothing I can do about it.
You see, this past summer, my shoulder started to ache, then the ache got worse, then it became a sharp pain. Figuring that when I got back to school and quit using it as often it would stop hurting, we basically ignored the pain. Then, I got to school, but the pain didn't stop. In fact, it was just getting worse. After an xray, a failed MRI (turns out I'm actually quite claustrophobic), and finally a successful MRI, it was discovered that I not only had torn two ligaments in my shoulder, but I had fluid buildup in a ligament, a swollen tendon, and a bone spur.
Needless to say, my shoulder wasn't happy with me. Trying to avoid surgery, if possible, the surgeon gave me a cortisone shot. While it did improve my range of motion, it didn't ease my pain at all. Then, one night as I was leaving class, I oh-so-gracefully (in case you don't know me, that is TOTAL sarcasm. It was far from graceful) slipped down some stairs, and hit my shoulder on my way down, causing even more pain.
But, I'm not here to write you all a sob story or get your pity (although your prayers would be much appreciated). I'm telling you all this because, even though it's inconvenient and unpleasant at times, this is a small hiccup. God has a lesson for me somewhere in this injury. Whether it's humbling myself enough to actually ask for prayer and help when I struggle with simple, everyday tasks or just trying to show me how much I still have to be thankful for, I know that God will bring some good out of this. I'm constantly reminded of all the wonderful things in my life. I have some of the greatest doctors, and even though I dread going to appointments regarding my shoulder, I know I'm lucky to have the healthcare I have. I have wonderful friends and an amazing family who all keep me in their prayers. I was lucky enough to have my baby brother come home for Christmas even though we didn't think he was going to make it home this year. I am going to my dream school to pursue a degree that will allow me to teach. I could make this list go on and on, but I don't think any of you would feel like reading all that.
Long story short, despite struggles, I am still deeply blessed, and thankful for a loving God who reveals my blessings to me daily.
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl❤
Monday, December 8, 2014
CrazyGirl Procrastinates
Hello my lovely readers!
I realize it has been a while since I've written here, and I'm sorry for that. It's been slightly crazy this semester, trying to balance school, a social life, and back and forth trips for doctor's appointments concerning my shoulder.
I'm writing right now partially because I'm procrastinating on studying any more (considering I already took a final this morning) and my brain feels fried, and partially because I've noticed something. We all joke about how finals week is terrible and hard and no one seems to want to survive. But, as I look around me, I feel like that isn't entirely a joke. I am not someone to study until I'm so stressed I can't see straight because I know that makes me do worse on the tests, but I'm watching as people give up sleep and eating and functioning properly for finals. It's craziness. So, trying NOT to become one of the zombies who can't form a full thought, I figured it was time to take a break, write on my blog, and do something I did a few years ago. Write a poem. Yes, a poem about finals week. So, here goes nothing.
I realize it has been a while since I've written here, and I'm sorry for that. It's been slightly crazy this semester, trying to balance school, a social life, and back and forth trips for doctor's appointments concerning my shoulder.
I'm writing right now partially because I'm procrastinating on studying any more (considering I already took a final this morning) and my brain feels fried, and partially because I've noticed something. We all joke about how finals week is terrible and hard and no one seems to want to survive. But, as I look around me, I feel like that isn't entirely a joke. I am not someone to study until I'm so stressed I can't see straight because I know that makes me do worse on the tests, but I'm watching as people give up sleep and eating and functioning properly for finals. It's craziness. So, trying NOT to become one of the zombies who can't form a full thought, I figured it was time to take a break, write on my blog, and do something I did a few years ago. Write a poem. Yes, a poem about finals week. So, here goes nothing.
Finals Week 2014
Where's the coffee? The sugar? The cream?
This final is crazy, I think I might scream.
The library is full of studying classmates,
Physics, Biology -- Do we need to know the states?!?
I lost my notes, my computer crashed,
I've eaten my entire chocolate stash.
Put on makeup? That's a joke.
I'm watching my education go up in smoke.
It's just one week, you'd think we'd be okay.
We're trying to study, but Facebook is in the way.
What is sleep? That one's new.
That's not something we get to do.
An IV of coffee should do the job,
The girl over there has started to sob.
The brink of insanity, it seems is near,
As each of us enters our finals with fear.
Someone in here in starting to snore,
(Was that girl in this class before?)
I know a career will be worth all this stress,
but right now the whole school is a mess.
So much of our grade rests on this week,
which means stress levels have started to peak.
If we survive, Christmas break will be here,
but right now, we're lacking Christmas cheer.
Prayers are appreciated (or gifts with caffeine)
Maybe you could give us a time machine.
So we could listen to that lecture one more time,
And make sure the info is stored in our mind.
To my fellow students, as this week commences,
I hope we all don't lose our senses.
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl♥
Wednesday, October 15, 2014
CrazyGirl observes Clothes
Just hear me out, okay? I'm not about to write about how much I love clothes and matching outfits or making clothes (all of which are true, but irrelevant to this post). I'm writing from the heart today, about something that affected me, and many close to me; self-image.
The reason I titled this post as an observation of clothes, is because I think a lot of self-image issues start in the clothing stores. And, more and more lately, this has been brought to my attention. Just within the past month I have found out that American Eagle has made their clothing sizes smaller, so a friend who is much smaller than I now wears a size 14. Which is bologna. She is NOT a size 14, at least not in real people sizes. I was also shown a picture of Victoria's Secret's "plus size" model (who is about the size of my pinky finger). Then today, I came across an article about the store of growing popularity; Brandy Melville. Apparently they only sell size small or "one size fits most" clothing, and have a reputation for telling customers that they aren't allowed to try on clothes because they are "too big" and "will stretch out the clothes." (Disclaimer: I have not experienced this first-hand, just read about it in the article I came across which is available at Huffington Post)
Some of you might shake your heads, maybe give a snort of disapproval and move on. But, you see, this infuriates me. And I am NOT being dramatic about that. Almost nothing gets me as heated as seeing the way these brand name stores shame this generation into starvation.
You see, I was one of those girls who struggled with body image. Looking at my much thinner friends, and especially my much thinner squad mates, I looked at myself and all I could think was "F.A.T." I saw no beauty when I looked in that mirror and I absolutely hated myself. I struggled with jealousy that my friends could be so effortlessly beautiful. I hated the fact that I could eat half of what they ate and gain twice as much weight. And, especially after I joined the cheer squad and just BARELY fit into the extra large uniform, I didn't see any quality about myself other than that I was FAT. I hid my shame behind jokes, because if I could crack the joke first, at least they'd be laughing more WITH me than AT me. I hated that my "huge" butt could only fit into a 10-12. I was convinced I was hideous. Now I look at those pictures and wonder where I got that notion. I looked AWESOME!
But, the truth is, I was listening to society. Which was telling me I was a size 2x, and that I was too big for the juniors clothes and with utter mortification had to shop in the WOMEN'S section (which disappointingly at some stores has very old-lady style clothing. . .) I also did not take into consideration PROPORTIONS. I had a solid four or five inches in height over my friends, but still expected to fit in the same tiny jeans. I also had a VERY different build from my friends. I've learned over the years that I was not built to be a tiny, stick-thin girl. My body is not made that way. I am what some call "curvy." And I've come to accept that. That doesn't give me the right to neglect my body and allow myself to become an unhealthy weight. It just means that this absurd dream from my high school years of being a double zero is just that; absurd.
I just think, that maybe instead of supporting brand names that tear down girls self-esteem, we need to start supporting the brands that help them accept themselves exactly how they are. One of the reasons I love Old Navy is that their jeans run in sizes that reflect real people. As opposed to say American Eagle, or (although I love this store) Target.
I read a quote the other day that "The girl in the ad, doesn't even look like the girl in the ad." I've seen push for more "realness" to be reflected in our society. But, we as friends and family members need to be careful what we say, because often the smallest of comments can scar for a lifetime. I can still hear every fat joke someone else said about me. Heck, I still remember in FIRST grade when I was gleefully jumping off the playground platform in my dress because I like the way it poofed out, and some girl came up to me and said "You know, you look like a parachute because you're the SIZE of one." Who knows, maybe if we brought our daughters up to believe there's more to a person than the tag on her jeans, and we encouraged people to look beyond the superficial this would be less of an issue. All I really know is that THIS HAS GOT TO STOP.
We as individuals have got to stop commenting on size. We need to stop this constant internet war of posting that "Real men like a curvy woman" versus "This [insert picture of skinny woman] is more attractive than THIS [insert picture of wider woman]" We shouldn't be reduced to our size. So, let's stop encouraging that. God created each and every one of us in HIS OWN IMAGE.
JUST. THE. WAY. WE. ARE.
So, why are we judging that, degrading that, and causing each other to hate that? I, for one, would like to be known for who I am rather than what size jeans I wear. Which is why I make every effort to not judge my fellow sisters in Christ for their size.
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl♥
The reason I titled this post as an observation of clothes, is because I think a lot of self-image issues start in the clothing stores. And, more and more lately, this has been brought to my attention. Just within the past month I have found out that American Eagle has made their clothing sizes smaller, so a friend who is much smaller than I now wears a size 14. Which is bologna. She is NOT a size 14, at least not in real people sizes. I was also shown a picture of Victoria's Secret's "plus size" model (who is about the size of my pinky finger). Then today, I came across an article about the store of growing popularity; Brandy Melville. Apparently they only sell size small or "one size fits most" clothing, and have a reputation for telling customers that they aren't allowed to try on clothes because they are "too big" and "will stretch out the clothes." (Disclaimer: I have not experienced this first-hand, just read about it in the article I came across which is available at Huffington Post)
Some of you might shake your heads, maybe give a snort of disapproval and move on. But, you see, this infuriates me. And I am NOT being dramatic about that. Almost nothing gets me as heated as seeing the way these brand name stores shame this generation into starvation.
You see, I was one of those girls who struggled with body image. Looking at my much thinner friends, and especially my much thinner squad mates, I looked at myself and all I could think was "F.A.T." I saw no beauty when I looked in that mirror and I absolutely hated myself. I struggled with jealousy that my friends could be so effortlessly beautiful. I hated the fact that I could eat half of what they ate and gain twice as much weight. And, especially after I joined the cheer squad and just BARELY fit into the extra large uniform, I didn't see any quality about myself other than that I was FAT. I hid my shame behind jokes, because if I could crack the joke first, at least they'd be laughing more WITH me than AT me. I hated that my "huge" butt could only fit into a 10-12. I was convinced I was hideous. Now I look at those pictures and wonder where I got that notion. I looked AWESOME!
I just think, that maybe instead of supporting brand names that tear down girls self-esteem, we need to start supporting the brands that help them accept themselves exactly how they are. One of the reasons I love Old Navy is that their jeans run in sizes that reflect real people. As opposed to say American Eagle, or (although I love this store) Target.
I read a quote the other day that "The girl in the ad, doesn't even look like the girl in the ad." I've seen push for more "realness" to be reflected in our society. But, we as friends and family members need to be careful what we say, because often the smallest of comments can scar for a lifetime. I can still hear every fat joke someone else said about me. Heck, I still remember in FIRST grade when I was gleefully jumping off the playground platform in my dress because I like the way it poofed out, and some girl came up to me and said "You know, you look like a parachute because you're the SIZE of one." Who knows, maybe if we brought our daughters up to believe there's more to a person than the tag on her jeans, and we encouraged people to look beyond the superficial this would be less of an issue. All I really know is that THIS HAS GOT TO STOP.
We as individuals have got to stop commenting on size. We need to stop this constant internet war of posting that "Real men like a curvy woman" versus "This [insert picture of skinny woman] is more attractive than THIS [insert picture of wider woman]" We shouldn't be reduced to our size. So, let's stop encouraging that. God created each and every one of us in HIS OWN IMAGE.
JUST. THE. WAY. WE. ARE.
So, why are we judging that, degrading that, and causing each other to hate that? I, for one, would like to be known for who I am rather than what size jeans I wear. Which is why I make every effort to not judge my fellow sisters in Christ for their size.
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl♥
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
CrazyGirl observes Perspective
So, lately I've been thinking. About our society, and their views on Jesus and Christianity. And to be 110% honest, society has it all wrong.
First and foremost, society (for the most part) seems to think that the Holy Trinity is this loving, teddy-bear-like, wish-granting thing that Christians use to have an oh-so-happy life. FALSE. Our God is indeed loving, but that love comes right alongside a wrath. I mean, think about it, God saw all the evil on the earth, and the evil intentions of man, but he didn't sit down and have a heart-to-heart with man. He didn't say "No no. Go in time out." No. God wiped out the Earth. *BAM* Huge flood, no people left except Noah and his family (and of course all the animals). Or look at Sodom and Gommorah; you know, where the people were living in sin and had turned away from God to fulfill their earthly desires? God didn't give them a little smack on their hand and hope that would do the trick; he wiped them out. And when Lot's wife didn't listen and looked back? She became a pillar of salt . . . salt. God also states in Romans that "the wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people . . . For although they knew God they neither glorified him nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened . . . Because of this God gave them over to sinful lusts . . . Although they know God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things, but approve of those who practice them." I'm sorry, but if that doesn't shatter this "teddy bear," "let's-all-just-live-in-peace" idea of who God is, then I can't really help you.
The other thing I've noticed is that when Jesus was here on the Earth, in the flesh of man, he was NOT afraid to step on toes. You didn't agree with his theology? Too bad. He was getting his wisdom from the Most High, and that kinda trumps your flawed, human theology.
The thing is, a lot of people think that if you're a Christian you are supposed to be this little, goody-two-shoes, who goes to church every Sunday and is basically perfect. Either that or you are the most raging hypocrite they have ever crossed paths with and you just need to go to You-Know-Where and usually a few other choice words follow those statements. But, God didn't send his son so we can sit in a pew on Sundays and judge the other people in our church. Jesus didn't die on a cross so we can have potlucks and gossip-fests. Not that fellowship isn't important, because it definitely is, but we've reached a point where our fellowship is our faith. God called us to be fishers of men, not back row baptists. We're supposed to be out in the world, sharing the Good News, even if we step on some toes along the way. Now, as a church, I think we tend to focus on these HUGE issues, like war, gay marriage, teen pregnancy, drug abuse, alcohol abuse, etc. But, at the risk of stepping on a few toes, maybe we ought to start closer to home; literally.
You see, I think we could combat these issues more easily if we started admitting we have issues of our own. It's so hard to let others know you are struggling, but that's why God wants us to fellowship. And the thing is, so many Christians have lost touch with the Biblical idea of marriage. One man. One woman. The man is to be the head of the household. Wives are supposed to submit to their husbands. I don't mean that women get no say and we need to go back to the "old" ways. But, as a body of Christ, we need to start looking at the flaws modern feminism presents to a Biblical standard of marriage.
God designed us differently on purpose. He created women with a natural tendency to nurture. He created men with a natural desire to provide. Woman came out of man's rib, so that she could be a partner and supporter to him in his life. I'm not saying women are lesser than men, but simply that we are created with a different purpose in mind. God gave us the abilities needed to care for a home, God gave men the role of provider. But lately we have pushed this idea that women have equal rights and women need to be exactly equal to men so much that the idea of a woman caring for the household is considered absurd. But, if the woman is working equally as much as the man, and neither can be "lowered" (I don't actually mean that, but I've heard the term used before when referring to being a housewife) to the task of child-rearing, where does that leave the children? If the children of this generation have no backbone at home, no example of marriage built on partnership and God's ideal for marriage, then they will suffer greatly when it comes time to build a marriage of their own. The less structure these children have, the more loose their morals become, and when the generation as a whole has loosened morals we end up in a world with some crazy ideas of normal. To quote one of my favorite bands, where the singer is talking about writing to the President of the United States to address some issues he sings "Same sex marriage in a state where they don't care, murder is wrong, but the jail time's not fair, not to mention date rape, felony, and car theft, break it down and tell me what we got left." Think about how normal some of these things are. And their normalcy will just continue to grow if we don't give children a structured home life, which again starts with a biblically based marriage. Later, in that same song, we come to the bridge where the singer brings up "Take a good look at Tommy, he's a track star, good role model, has a chance to go real far. Then the school made a budget cut, cut out the track team, now instead Tommy is a crackhead." As a junior higher, listening to Hawk Nelson, I thought this was a rather clever line and it made me giggle. But, as I've grown older and began my studies to be a teacher, I realized the very heavy truth behind it. Not only are our children suffering at the expense of us and our government, but what about the fact that the only stability in "Tommy's" life was school and track? Where are the parents of this generation? Why is the school system being depended upon for the raising of your children? There are so many flaws in thinking that the school should be raising your child for you. (But I won't get into those now, I could write like three blog posts about that.)
Anyway, to summarize what I've just babbled at you; we have crept away from the biblical standards for marriage, it's affecting the quality of marriages, it's affecting children, and it's affecting our society as a whole. We can start to fix a number of problems, but it needs to start at home, a Christ-centered home.
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl♥
First and foremost, society (for the most part) seems to think that the Holy Trinity is this loving, teddy-bear-like, wish-granting thing that Christians use to have an oh-so-happy life. FALSE. Our God is indeed loving, but that love comes right alongside a wrath. I mean, think about it, God saw all the evil on the earth, and the evil intentions of man, but he didn't sit down and have a heart-to-heart with man. He didn't say "No no. Go in time out." No. God wiped out the Earth. *BAM* Huge flood, no people left except Noah and his family (and of course all the animals). Or look at Sodom and Gommorah; you know, where the people were living in sin and had turned away from God to fulfill their earthly desires? God didn't give them a little smack on their hand and hope that would do the trick; he wiped them out. And when Lot's wife didn't listen and looked back? She became a pillar of salt . . . salt. God also states in Romans that "the wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people . . . For although they knew God they neither glorified him nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened . . . Because of this God gave them over to sinful lusts . . . Although they know God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things, but approve of those who practice them." I'm sorry, but if that doesn't shatter this "teddy bear," "let's-all-just-live-in-peace" idea of who God is, then I can't really help you.
The other thing I've noticed is that when Jesus was here on the Earth, in the flesh of man, he was NOT afraid to step on toes. You didn't agree with his theology? Too bad. He was getting his wisdom from the Most High, and that kinda trumps your flawed, human theology.
The thing is, a lot of people think that if you're a Christian you are supposed to be this little, goody-two-shoes, who goes to church every Sunday and is basically perfect. Either that or you are the most raging hypocrite they have ever crossed paths with and you just need to go to You-Know-Where and usually a few other choice words follow those statements. But, God didn't send his son so we can sit in a pew on Sundays and judge the other people in our church. Jesus didn't die on a cross so we can have potlucks and gossip-fests. Not that fellowship isn't important, because it definitely is, but we've reached a point where our fellowship is our faith. God called us to be fishers of men, not back row baptists. We're supposed to be out in the world, sharing the Good News, even if we step on some toes along the way. Now, as a church, I think we tend to focus on these HUGE issues, like war, gay marriage, teen pregnancy, drug abuse, alcohol abuse, etc. But, at the risk of stepping on a few toes, maybe we ought to start closer to home; literally.
You see, I think we could combat these issues more easily if we started admitting we have issues of our own. It's so hard to let others know you are struggling, but that's why God wants us to fellowship. And the thing is, so many Christians have lost touch with the Biblical idea of marriage. One man. One woman. The man is to be the head of the household. Wives are supposed to submit to their husbands. I don't mean that women get no say and we need to go back to the "old" ways. But, as a body of Christ, we need to start looking at the flaws modern feminism presents to a Biblical standard of marriage.
God designed us differently on purpose. He created women with a natural tendency to nurture. He created men with a natural desire to provide. Woman came out of man's rib, so that she could be a partner and supporter to him in his life. I'm not saying women are lesser than men, but simply that we are created with a different purpose in mind. God gave us the abilities needed to care for a home, God gave men the role of provider. But lately we have pushed this idea that women have equal rights and women need to be exactly equal to men so much that the idea of a woman caring for the household is considered absurd. But, if the woman is working equally as much as the man, and neither can be "lowered" (I don't actually mean that, but I've heard the term used before when referring to being a housewife) to the task of child-rearing, where does that leave the children? If the children of this generation have no backbone at home, no example of marriage built on partnership and God's ideal for marriage, then they will suffer greatly when it comes time to build a marriage of their own. The less structure these children have, the more loose their morals become, and when the generation as a whole has loosened morals we end up in a world with some crazy ideas of normal. To quote one of my favorite bands, where the singer is talking about writing to the President of the United States to address some issues he sings "Same sex marriage in a state where they don't care, murder is wrong, but the jail time's not fair, not to mention date rape, felony, and car theft, break it down and tell me what we got left." Think about how normal some of these things are. And their normalcy will just continue to grow if we don't give children a structured home life, which again starts with a biblically based marriage. Later, in that same song, we come to the bridge where the singer brings up "Take a good look at Tommy, he's a track star, good role model, has a chance to go real far. Then the school made a budget cut, cut out the track team, now instead Tommy is a crackhead." As a junior higher, listening to Hawk Nelson, I thought this was a rather clever line and it made me giggle. But, as I've grown older and began my studies to be a teacher, I realized the very heavy truth behind it. Not only are our children suffering at the expense of us and our government, but what about the fact that the only stability in "Tommy's" life was school and track? Where are the parents of this generation? Why is the school system being depended upon for the raising of your children? There are so many flaws in thinking that the school should be raising your child for you. (But I won't get into those now, I could write like three blog posts about that.)
Anyway, to summarize what I've just babbled at you; we have crept away from the biblical standards for marriage, it's affecting the quality of marriages, it's affecting children, and it's affecting our society as a whole. We can start to fix a number of problems, but it needs to start at home, a Christ-centered home.
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl♥
Friday, September 12, 2014
CrazyGirl observes Older Sisters
How many of you have older sisters? Yeah. I have one too. And the truth is, we didn't have the sugar-coated relationship that people seem to assume happens when you and your sister are close in age. In fact, for most of my childhood we fought. I can remember countless games of Barbie dolls where Lauren wanted something I had and she threatened to quit playing if I didn't give it to her. And I was definitely the MASTER at pushing her buttons (but only I was allowed to do so; you messed with her, I'd kick your butt.) I so wanted to be the opposite of her. She started wearing make-up? Fine. I wanted nothing to do with the nasty crap. She liked back to school shopping? I hated it. She spent time curling her hair before school? Cool. I was going to roll out of bed and throw mine into a ponytail. We would not be alike. I was determined.
I figured that when she left for school, we would just eliminate the copious amounts of fighting that went on through junior high and high school. But, then I started noticing the other changes. I lost the person who knew the most about me. I lost my closest friend and strongest ally. I quickly began to notice the gigantic hole that had been left.
Amazingly, through God's plan, we ended up at Simpson together for this past school year. It was like realizing I'd had a built in best friend all those years, and I had taken her for granted. The thing is, after those three years where she wasn't right down the hall (or now down the road), I'm realizing just how amazing a woman God has placed in my life. She's smart and beautiful, and funny. She puts up with all of me (which is an amazing feat in itself), and still will call me up to hang out. She's got a strong relationship with God, and an inner beauty that reflects it. Everyone who meets her is endeared by her. And I am thanking God everyday for giving me the opportunity to be her sister and the honor to be her friend (FINALLY).
The thing is, God only gives us the siblings we have. Sometimes they might be annoying (I'm the master at that). Sometimes they hurt our feelings. But, all in all, they're our family and God blessed us with them. Don't take that for granted.
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl♥
Thursday, September 11, 2014
I'm BAAAAACCCK!
Hey lovely followers♥
I apologize for my silence. I had some, er, technical difficulties (AKA my computer didn't want to connect to the internet) which kept me from my blog. In case you didn't know, I MISSED YOU GUYS. I love this blog and all my wonderful followers. And, that's what brings me to the point of this post.
As I may have mentioned before, I can check my "stats" or see how many times what post has been viewed by people other than myself, or where my followers are reading from, etc. It's pretty nice just to know that since I've been silent, people have continued to read my blog. Whether they stumbled across it by random happenstance, or read it because they know me and wanted to be supportive, or just wanted to know if someone out there was as crazy as them, I don't know. But, my numbers have gone up. Now PLEASE do not mistake that for me being all about the numbers. I honestly would probably continue to write this blog even if no one was reading regularly.
Twice in the past week, I have been told by friends that they read my blog and it made a connection. I couldn't ask for anything more from my blog. It's not famous, it's not fancy, and I know not everyone agrees with me. But to make a connection with someone, for something I wrote to strike a note with someone else, well, it's humbling. Here I am, sitting at a laptop, typing away about my random thoughts about WHATEVER, and somehow, someway, it's making a connection. I never could have DREAMED that for this blog, and yet, God knew it would happen, He orchestrated it perfectly so that my posts could connect with not one, but TWO different people. I can't begin to express how happy that makes me, and how much your prayers and continued readings of my randomness means to me. So, thank you all, so much. Here's to many, MANY more CrazyGirl♥ posts!
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl♥
I apologize for my silence. I had some, er, technical difficulties (AKA my computer didn't want to connect to the internet) which kept me from my blog. In case you didn't know, I MISSED YOU GUYS. I love this blog and all my wonderful followers. And, that's what brings me to the point of this post.
As I may have mentioned before, I can check my "stats" or see how many times what post has been viewed by people other than myself, or where my followers are reading from, etc. It's pretty nice just to know that since I've been silent, people have continued to read my blog. Whether they stumbled across it by random happenstance, or read it because they know me and wanted to be supportive, or just wanted to know if someone out there was as crazy as them, I don't know. But, my numbers have gone up. Now PLEASE do not mistake that for me being all about the numbers. I honestly would probably continue to write this blog even if no one was reading regularly.
Twice in the past week, I have been told by friends that they read my blog and it made a connection. I couldn't ask for anything more from my blog. It's not famous, it's not fancy, and I know not everyone agrees with me. But to make a connection with someone, for something I wrote to strike a note with someone else, well, it's humbling. Here I am, sitting at a laptop, typing away about my random thoughts about WHATEVER, and somehow, someway, it's making a connection. I never could have DREAMED that for this blog, and yet, God knew it would happen, He orchestrated it perfectly so that my posts could connect with not one, but TWO different people. I can't begin to express how happy that makes me, and how much your prayers and continued readings of my randomness means to me. So, thank you all, so much. Here's to many, MANY more CrazyGirl♥ posts!
Til Next Time,
Friday, June 13, 2014
CrazyGirl rants
Okay, so I know I've been on my blog a LOT lately (my mind has been hard at work apparently). But, there is something that has started bothering me more and more lately. And it's about our self-worth as women and men.
I have a Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I see these young ladies, beautiful young ladies I might add, who are basing so much of their self-worth off of stupid social media fads. It doesn't make THEM stupid, they just don't know any different. They've grown up in an era where social media dictates friendships and is a place to receive gratification from people that they might not even know. They think that having the most handsome "MCM" (that's Man Crush Monday for those of you wondering) or being a "WCW" (Woman Crush Wednesday) to the most guys is what validates their self worth. They have no sense of their worth as a person in the real world or at least a very VERY jaded view of what that means. They can't fathom their beauty in the eyes of Christ, because they haven't been anyone's "WCW." Most of what is posted on social media jades their perception of what is "normal" or "cool" or "worthwhile." Social media takes the popularity contest out of high schools and brings it home with these kids. Home isn't the safe haven that they come to knowing they can escape the insanity high school can be. The craziness is ALWAYS in the palm of their hand. And they KNOW that that other girl is getting MORE likes than them on Instagram.
It's also jaded the view these kids have of romance. I hate to break it to you, but a "Good Morning" text is not the most romantic gesture a man can think of. What about REAL romance? Like going out stargazing (withOUT the cellphones present) or being handpicked some wildflowers? What about singing songs or writing poems? Handwritten love letters? Better yet, what happened to the gentlemen introducing themselves to the girls' parents? Now it's okay for him to send a text "Hey. I'm out front" and honking the horn. Ladies, I don't mean to diss your man, but don't settle for that. You deserve respect. Men, be better than that. Hold the door for her. Meet her parents. And both of you, PUT THE PHONE DOWN. If you want to get to know someone, you have to spend quality time talking to them, finding out their mannerisms, their inflections, all the little details we don't seem to notice because we're all glued to little devices that run our lives and dictate the way we view ourselves and our self worth.
Besides the little rant I just gave, if you take anything out of this, let it be this: You are wonderfully and beautifully made. You are loved by the Creator of this Universe, which is worth more than being a "MCM" or "WCW." Remember your worth and beauty in the Savior, and you won't have to base your worth off of social media (which isn't worth it).
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl♥
I have a Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I see these young ladies, beautiful young ladies I might add, who are basing so much of their self-worth off of stupid social media fads. It doesn't make THEM stupid, they just don't know any different. They've grown up in an era where social media dictates friendships and is a place to receive gratification from people that they might not even know. They think that having the most handsome "MCM" (that's Man Crush Monday for those of you wondering) or being a "WCW" (Woman Crush Wednesday) to the most guys is what validates their self worth. They have no sense of their worth as a person in the real world or at least a very VERY jaded view of what that means. They can't fathom their beauty in the eyes of Christ, because they haven't been anyone's "WCW." Most of what is posted on social media jades their perception of what is "normal" or "cool" or "worthwhile." Social media takes the popularity contest out of high schools and brings it home with these kids. Home isn't the safe haven that they come to knowing they can escape the insanity high school can be. The craziness is ALWAYS in the palm of their hand. And they KNOW that that other girl is getting MORE likes than them on Instagram.
It's also jaded the view these kids have of romance. I hate to break it to you, but a "Good Morning" text is not the most romantic gesture a man can think of. What about REAL romance? Like going out stargazing (withOUT the cellphones present) or being handpicked some wildflowers? What about singing songs or writing poems? Handwritten love letters? Better yet, what happened to the gentlemen introducing themselves to the girls' parents? Now it's okay for him to send a text "Hey. I'm out front" and honking the horn. Ladies, I don't mean to diss your man, but don't settle for that. You deserve respect. Men, be better than that. Hold the door for her. Meet her parents. And both of you, PUT THE PHONE DOWN. If you want to get to know someone, you have to spend quality time talking to them, finding out their mannerisms, their inflections, all the little details we don't seem to notice because we're all glued to little devices that run our lives and dictate the way we view ourselves and our self worth.
Besides the little rant I just gave, if you take anything out of this, let it be this: You are wonderfully and beautifully made. You are loved by the Creator of this Universe, which is worth more than being a "MCM" or "WCW." Remember your worth and beauty in the Savior, and you won't have to base your worth off of social media (which isn't worth it).
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl♥ observes a Letter
Dear Future Husband,
I can't wait for the day that I meet you. Who knows? Perhaps we have met. (That would be pretty wild.)
Anyway, before that day that we become serious about one another, there is some stuff I think you should know.
First of all, so many girls say "I want a relationship like Chuck and Blair" or "I want a Lily and Marshall relationship" or "I want to have what Donna and Eric have." And while at one point I have been guilty of such a statement, I now realize how wrong I was. I don't want what Chuck and Blair, Lily and Marshall, or Donna and Eric have, because I want what God has planned for us. I don't want to settle for a romance any less than ours.
Secondly, I know that temptations lie all around you, easily within reach at all times. Just know that I'm praying for you to have the strength to say no to those temptations. But, should you give in to temptation, know that unless you hold onto that and let it affect the present, there is absolutely no reason for me to hold the past against you. I hope you can do the same for me, because I'm not going to pretend to be perfect. I'm only human.
That brings me to my third point. You see, I spent years unsure of myself, my weight, my looks, my personality, everything about myself really. But, as I grow up and mature, I'm learning that before I can truly love someone else and accept their love for me, I have to love myself. I'm not always going to have good days. You can rest assured of that. I cry; sometimes for no reason whatsoever. And when I cry, my mascara runs in a very obvious manner. Sometimes I get angry about stupid stuff. I'm not exactly a ray of sunshine when I first wake up. I occasionally talk in my sleep. And twitch. I try to pick up on others' emotions, but I'm not always good at it, so you might have to tell me what's on your mind, and I will try to do the same. I'm sure that there will be stressful times in our life together. Maybe our money situation will get bad at times, or there will be family stress. We will have to deal with up-all-night screaming baby sessions, the terrible twos, adolescence, our teenage daughter's first broken heart. But, rest assured, despite my haggard looks, and half asleep conversations with you, there is no one else I would rather face every obstacle in my life with (that's why I chose to marry you, silly. I could have said no if I wanted to).
My final point is this: I chose you. As I write this letter, I am a VERY single twenty year old, holding out for the right man. Believe me when I say that I'm not willing to settle for the first man to flatter me a little bit. So, if we're married, it means that I prayed about it and God and I came to the conclusion that YOU are the man for ME. I know you aren't perfect, you're only human, same as me. You will probably push my buttons. I'm sure we'll fight. Maybe you have a past. I understand that you have quirks and emotions and that you think WAY differently than me. But, despite any quirks you might have, I absolutely love you. With every fiber of my being. And I'm so glad we chose to spend the rest of our lives together.
Your Crazy Girl,
Katie♥
I can't wait for the day that I meet you. Who knows? Perhaps we have met. (That would be pretty wild.)
Anyway, before that day that we become serious about one another, there is some stuff I think you should know.
First of all, so many girls say "I want a relationship like Chuck and Blair" or "I want a Lily and Marshall relationship" or "I want to have what Donna and Eric have." And while at one point I have been guilty of such a statement, I now realize how wrong I was. I don't want what Chuck and Blair, Lily and Marshall, or Donna and Eric have, because I want what God has planned for us. I don't want to settle for a romance any less than ours.
Secondly, I know that temptations lie all around you, easily within reach at all times. Just know that I'm praying for you to have the strength to say no to those temptations. But, should you give in to temptation, know that unless you hold onto that and let it affect the present, there is absolutely no reason for me to hold the past against you. I hope you can do the same for me, because I'm not going to pretend to be perfect. I'm only human.
That brings me to my third point. You see, I spent years unsure of myself, my weight, my looks, my personality, everything about myself really. But, as I grow up and mature, I'm learning that before I can truly love someone else and accept their love for me, I have to love myself. I'm not always going to have good days. You can rest assured of that. I cry; sometimes for no reason whatsoever. And when I cry, my mascara runs in a very obvious manner. Sometimes I get angry about stupid stuff. I'm not exactly a ray of sunshine when I first wake up. I occasionally talk in my sleep. And twitch. I try to pick up on others' emotions, but I'm not always good at it, so you might have to tell me what's on your mind, and I will try to do the same. I'm sure that there will be stressful times in our life together. Maybe our money situation will get bad at times, or there will be family stress. We will have to deal with up-all-night screaming baby sessions, the terrible twos, adolescence, our teenage daughter's first broken heart. But, rest assured, despite my haggard looks, and half asleep conversations with you, there is no one else I would rather face every obstacle in my life with (that's why I chose to marry you, silly. I could have said no if I wanted to).
My final point is this: I chose you. As I write this letter, I am a VERY single twenty year old, holding out for the right man. Believe me when I say that I'm not willing to settle for the first man to flatter me a little bit. So, if we're married, it means that I prayed about it and God and I came to the conclusion that YOU are the man for ME. I know you aren't perfect, you're only human, same as me. You will probably push my buttons. I'm sure we'll fight. Maybe you have a past. I understand that you have quirks and emotions and that you think WAY differently than me. But, despite any quirks you might have, I absolutely love you. With every fiber of my being. And I'm so glad we chose to spend the rest of our lives together.
Your Crazy Girl,
Katie♥
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
CrazyGirl observes Her Thoughts on Dating
If you haven't noticed this about me yet, relationships (or the lack thereof) play a large part in my life. I don't try to make them, I don't wake up each morning and think "Yes, let's obsess over relationships today." But it seems that everywhere I turn, another relationship is there, or someone is talking about relationships, or somehow there is a reminder that relationships exist. At school, at work, at church, when I'm with my friends. Relationships and the pressure to date have become such necessities in our society. Now, I'm not one to say we shouldn't have relationships in our lives, or even to say we shouldn't have romantic relationships in our lives, but people seem to think that at 20 years old, since I haven't held hands with anyone, or ever been kissed, or had a real boyfriend (sorry junior high "special friends" I don't think that really counts. . .), or even really been on a real date (I've been on ONE blind date at an event for my college, it was fun, and he was great, but it wasn't romantic in any way), that means that you've pretty much destined yourself for a life as an old maid or a crazy cat lady (sorry to disappoint, but that won't ever happen, I'm more of a dog person myself). WHY IS THAT? I'm still young, I'm still trying to finish school. Yes, my dream career is to be a stay-at-home mom to my children, but maybe that's not God's plan. I would really like to hope it is, but I have to learn to trust that God knows what He's doing. Because He does and I don't. If I controlled every aspect of my life, and got everything I wanted, I'd be married to my kindergarten crush. . .since kindergarten. I don't think that would be such a great life (I mean, he's nice and all. . .but I don't see us working together today. Haha.)
I had a well meaning friend of mine tell me that maybe it's time to try online dating. I have nothing against it, and I know plenty of couples who have worked out very well by connecting through online dating. There's no Biblical evidence to suggest that it's wrong in any way, BUT I don't feel like it's the thing for me. I'm too much of an old-fashioned romantic. I'd love to bump into a handsome stranger, fall madly in love, get married, and start a family (okay, so I'm missing a few steps, but there's the shortened version). Or maybe meet a guy in class. Or SOMETHING. I'm a hopeless romantic, always have been, always will be. God created me that way for a reason.
Now, in today's world, we're taught very VERY conflicting things. As women, we're taught that men should not view us as an object, that we shouldn't allow men to view us in a sexual manner (unless we're trying to get sex). BUT, we're also taught that we should dress alluringly to "snag" a man. We're supposed to wear low cut tops, tops that show our belly, shorts with a waistline below our hips, shorts so short they should be called denim underwear, we should wear dresses that show every curve, and if God gave us cleavage, why shouldn't we show it off? (Men really shouldn't view women as objects, and if you walk around flaunting your goods all the time a-your husband will already know what you look like on your wedding night, and that's supposed to be a beautiful gift from a woman to her husband, and b-most guys will be mentally undressing you at every given opportunity, instead of seeing you for the wonderful woman you are) This is confusing for the men too, because we are giving them conflicting signals. We're dressing in a manner that suggests we want them to buy us a drink before they bed us for a one night stand, then we're getting angry with them for viewing us as sexual objects. (Sorry, but if it looks like a duck, walks like a duck, and quacks like a duck. . .it's probably a duck.)
As a young woman, I understand the difficulty in dressing modestly. The shorts, skirts, and dresses are getting shorter, the tops are being cropped more and more, and the neck line is getting lower and lower. Shirts and dresses are no longer made to be loose fitting, but instead cling to every inch of skin and leave very very VERY little to the imagination. But, rest assured, there ARE options. I've always been an advocate of dressing modestly (despite the difficulty in finding modest clothing), and today, after reading a blog post about women and men and mating and dating http://truelovedates.com/to-all-the-single-ladies-the-mating-game/ that was only intensified. In case you don't feel like reading the blog post, she basically states that she was watching a television show about some tropical birds, and while the narrator talked about their mating ritual, he mentioned the modesty of the female and the pickiness of the female in choosing her mate. Ladies, we don't have to settle. No, the perfect man does not exist, but there is a man out there that is perfect for you. Also, we don't need to flaunt ourselves in front of men, just be yourself, the beautiful wonderful you that God created in His image, and the right guy will find himself falling for you, and you for him.
So please, don't settle for less that what God has for you. Wait for the right man. Believe me, I know that waiting can be hard (I've been waiting a LONG time), but I'm trusting that God will provide a man who is ready and willing to commit to me and my mood swings, and ugly morning hair, and the fact that I talk to dogs, and bake when I'm stressed or angry, and all of my weird quirks and unique features. And I will be ready and willing to commit to him and all of his quirks. That will be a very happy day.
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl♥
I had a well meaning friend of mine tell me that maybe it's time to try online dating. I have nothing against it, and I know plenty of couples who have worked out very well by connecting through online dating. There's no Biblical evidence to suggest that it's wrong in any way, BUT I don't feel like it's the thing for me. I'm too much of an old-fashioned romantic. I'd love to bump into a handsome stranger, fall madly in love, get married, and start a family (okay, so I'm missing a few steps, but there's the shortened version). Or maybe meet a guy in class. Or SOMETHING. I'm a hopeless romantic, always have been, always will be. God created me that way for a reason.
Now, in today's world, we're taught very VERY conflicting things. As women, we're taught that men should not view us as an object, that we shouldn't allow men to view us in a sexual manner (unless we're trying to get sex). BUT, we're also taught that we should dress alluringly to "snag" a man. We're supposed to wear low cut tops, tops that show our belly, shorts with a waistline below our hips, shorts so short they should be called denim underwear, we should wear dresses that show every curve, and if God gave us cleavage, why shouldn't we show it off? (Men really shouldn't view women as objects, and if you walk around flaunting your goods all the time a-your husband will already know what you look like on your wedding night, and that's supposed to be a beautiful gift from a woman to her husband, and b-most guys will be mentally undressing you at every given opportunity, instead of seeing you for the wonderful woman you are) This is confusing for the men too, because we are giving them conflicting signals. We're dressing in a manner that suggests we want them to buy us a drink before they bed us for a one night stand, then we're getting angry with them for viewing us as sexual objects. (Sorry, but if it looks like a duck, walks like a duck, and quacks like a duck. . .it's probably a duck.)
As a young woman, I understand the difficulty in dressing modestly. The shorts, skirts, and dresses are getting shorter, the tops are being cropped more and more, and the neck line is getting lower and lower. Shirts and dresses are no longer made to be loose fitting, but instead cling to every inch of skin and leave very very VERY little to the imagination. But, rest assured, there ARE options. I've always been an advocate of dressing modestly (despite the difficulty in finding modest clothing), and today, after reading a blog post about women and men and mating and dating http://truelovedates.com/to-all-the-single-ladies-the-mating-game/ that was only intensified. In case you don't feel like reading the blog post, she basically states that she was watching a television show about some tropical birds, and while the narrator talked about their mating ritual, he mentioned the modesty of the female and the pickiness of the female in choosing her mate. Ladies, we don't have to settle. No, the perfect man does not exist, but there is a man out there that is perfect for you. Also, we don't need to flaunt ourselves in front of men, just be yourself, the beautiful wonderful you that God created in His image, and the right guy will find himself falling for you, and you for him.
So please, don't settle for less that what God has for you. Wait for the right man. Believe me, I know that waiting can be hard (I've been waiting a LONG time), but I'm trusting that God will provide a man who is ready and willing to commit to me and my mood swings, and ugly morning hair, and the fact that I talk to dogs, and bake when I'm stressed or angry, and all of my weird quirks and unique features. And I will be ready and willing to commit to him and all of his quirks. That will be a very happy day.
Til Next Time,
Sunday, June 8, 2014
CrazyGirl♥ observes Opportunity
It's summer. If that doesn't excite you, I don't know what will. I may be a lover of the rain, but summer brings rest, relaxation, and tan lines. Okay. . . so maybe summer isn't as ideal as we pictured it as kids, but it's nice to not have homework to worry about for a couple months. Summer is an opportunity; we have some free time on our hands (or at least I do) considering that once we're clocked off at work, we're finished for the day, it's not like the classroom where we finish class and BOOM we're free! NOT. We finish class and we have piles of homework to do, not to mention that test we have to study for, and oh no! you almost forgot that it's your friend's twentieth I mean. . . twenty-first birthday and you promised them you'd go to dinner and that means you have to get all dressed up and that actually takes effort. So, without all of that, summer is an opportunity.
For me, it's an opportunity to save up some money and maybe do a little travelling. For others, like my wonderful older sister, it's an opportunity to start the rest of your life as a full-blown adult, college graduate, and proud renter of her very first apartment. Yet, for others, it's the opportunity to pursue something they never thought they'd do. Maybe some of you lucky ones are getting the opportunity for a summer romance, I know Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are all blowing up with news of recent engagements and marriages, and new couples seem to be cropping up all over the place. Perhaps you're getting the opportunity to learn a new skill (*cough cough* I still need to learn the drums *cough cough*). Maybe you're spending time with old friends, just catching up and hearing all about their adventures. Whatever it is you're doing this summer, look for the opportunity.
Sometimes, it's easy to overlook opportunity, to excuse it. "Oh I don't need to do that. I need my beauty sleep." But, while you have the opportunity seriously think and pray about taking that opportunity. This may be your only chance. Sometimes that opportunity may require a leap of faith and some heavy trust in Christ, but believe me, anything chance worth taking should scare you just a little. The leap of faith is just part of the journey. Not to seem tacky or cliche, but it's like the song by Lee Ann Womack says, "When you get the chance to sit it out or dance, I hope you dance." And, that's what I'm hoping for you this summer, when you get that opportunity to do something new, something a little scary; TAKE IT.
Til Next Time,
For me, it's an opportunity to save up some money and maybe do a little travelling. For others, like my wonderful older sister, it's an opportunity to start the rest of your life as a full-blown adult, college graduate, and proud renter of her very first apartment. Yet, for others, it's the opportunity to pursue something they never thought they'd do. Maybe some of you lucky ones are getting the opportunity for a summer romance, I know Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are all blowing up with news of recent engagements and marriages, and new couples seem to be cropping up all over the place. Perhaps you're getting the opportunity to learn a new skill (*cough cough* I still need to learn the drums *cough cough*). Maybe you're spending time with old friends, just catching up and hearing all about their adventures. Whatever it is you're doing this summer, look for the opportunity.
Sometimes, it's easy to overlook opportunity, to excuse it. "Oh I don't need to do that. I need my beauty sleep." But, while you have the opportunity seriously think and pray about taking that opportunity. This may be your only chance. Sometimes that opportunity may require a leap of faith and some heavy trust in Christ, but believe me, anything chance worth taking should scare you just a little. The leap of faith is just part of the journey. Not to seem tacky or cliche, but it's like the song by Lee Ann Womack says, "When you get the chance to sit it out or dance, I hope you dance." And, that's what I'm hoping for you this summer, when you get that opportunity to do something new, something a little scary; TAKE IT.
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl♥
Thursday, March 20, 2014
CrazyGirl♥ observes Fiction
So, tonight, I got into the writing mood. Innocently thinking I might strike up some creative streak, I posted on Facebook. Silly me, thinking that would help. Instead, I ended up getting the most ridiculous request for a story starring two of my wonderful friends; Taryn and Kelsey. As if writing a fictional story wasn't enough, they asked me for a story which starred the two of them, where they go on an adventure . . . to the moon . . . with a unicorn. Of course, that's a ridiculous thing to write a blog post about. But, then again, I was given a due date of 7 o'clock tomorrow. And I am CrazyGirl♥. So, here goes nothing.
It was a typical boring night, with nothing to do in the small town of Katieville (okay. . . if I'm writing a story about two of my wonderful friends, I'm going to have to stick myself in there). Kelsey was working on yet another homework assignment. She looked at the paper, and sighed, then wrote a few more words. Drumming her fingers on the table she thought about what else she could write, then finally set down her pencil and grabbed her coat. "Brit. I'm going for a walk. I'll be back soon." She called down the hallway to her younger sister. "Mmf" came the muffled reply from her sister. Sliding on her coat, she walked out the front door, into the breezy evening air. (I'm telling you . . . this fiction stuff is NOT my forte.)
At the same time, Taryn's cat buddy, Mort, had finally grown bored of playing with his toy, and was snoozing on the couch, while Mae Mobely (another cat friend of Taryn's) was hiding somewhere, probably napping. Using Mort's current actions as her excuse, she grabbed a sweatshirt and headed out for a walk of her own. Strolling down the street, she spotted Kelsey, called out "Hey!" and waved. Jogging briskly, she caught up to Kelsey and the two strolled in silence for a bit. Then, Taryn pushed her long, brown hair behind her ear and shrugged "Were you bored too?" Kelsey chuckled "Yeah. It's Katieville. Who isn't bored here?" (I just realized that I named the town in my story after myself, and made it a boring town. I'm so skilled.)
After walking some ways, the girls came to a field on the edge of town. "Should we turn back?" Kelsey asked, her blonde hair being blown in her face by the breeze. Taryn shrugged. "Why not just walk through it? Something new and exciting." The sarcasm was thick in her voice. Both girls took a step into the field, and suddenly a huge gust of wind picked up. "Did you feel that?" Kelsey said. Taryn giggled "You're too paranoid. It's been windy all night."
"Alright. Alright. I'm just nervous. This field creeps me out a little bit."
"Why does it creep you out?" Taryn giggled.
"Because," Kelsey sighed. "I don't know. It just does."
The girls came to the edge of the field where they discovered a fence that blocked off an enchanting grove of trees, and a little pond. "Whoa," Kelsey whispered in awe. "I never knew that was there." Suddenly, Taryn glanced at Kelsey with a scheming gleam in her eye. "You know we're going in there, right?" Kelsey looked slightly startled and then nodded her consent. They pushed apart two of the fence slats that were hanging loosely by only the top nail and climbed through one at a time. Walking towards the pond, the two girls looked in awe at what surrounded them. The grass around them was a crisp emerald green, and speckled with tiny wildflowers. The trees swayed lightly in the breeze, and the setting sun created a backdrop of gorgeous pinks and oranges. Suddenly, an excited squeal escaped Kelsey "Look! A swing!" She ran over and hopped on the little board swing, hanging from the tree. "This is magical!" Suddenly, there was a flash of light, and the trees began to rustle. Both girls froze, and suddenly, a unicorn appeared from behind the trees. "You're the first one to realize that for years now." He said. "I've been waiting for someone to see the magic, which allows me to come and visit." Taryn giggled nervously, "You're . . . a . . . unicorn." she said.
"You got a problem with that?" he snorted.
Kelsey just stared wide-eyed, taking in what was happening.
Taryn stammered again, "You're . . . you're . . . a . . . a . . . UNICORN."
The unicorn rolled his eyes, "Yeah. So, we've established."
Finally Kelsey asked him "So, why are you here?"
The unicorn turned to face her in all his majestic glory, "To do whatever the heck you want."
"What if I want to go to the moon?" Kelsey asked.
"Whatever you say." replied the unicorn.
"Hey. Wait a second," Taryn stated. "We don't know your name."
"Oh, yeah, I'm bad with introductions. When you don't have any interaction in several hundred years, it's hard to remember your manners sometimes. I'm Fred."
"Fred, the unicorn?" Kelsey asked, slightly shocked.
"Yeah. You got a problem with that?"
"No. No problem at all." Kelsey replied.
"Good. Now close your eye, Toots." Fred said.
Both girls closed their eyes.
"Now open them!"
Opening their eyes, both girls looked around them. They were on the moon. (Yeah. Don't mind my really lame attempt at fiction. I'm also half asleep right now.) Both of them began bouncing around, testing the lowered gravity of the moon. Giggling, they began twirling and jumping, enjoying the feel of being seemingly weightless. "Fred, come join us." Taryn shouted breathlessly.
"Me? You want me to join?" Fred asked.
"Of course," Kelsey said. "If it weren't for you, we never could have taken this adventure."
"What if I told you that there was some really cool stuff here?" Fred asked excitedly.
"Then I'd tell you to show us." Taryn replied.
"Well," Fred stated. "Then follow me."
First, Fred showed them the northern lights from space.
Then, he showed them a solar flare, and how it looks from the sun.
After that, he showed them Pluto, and explained that Pluto should still be a planet, but there was some political differences between the other planets and Pluto, and they kicked it out of the planet council.
Then, he introduced them to the man on the moon. Who, it turns out, is actually a man, who also happened to paint his picture onto the side of the moon. They enjoyed a lovely tea with the man on the moon (his name is John, in case you were wondering.) who recommended a frozen yogurt shop called "Moon Me" to them. They visited Moon Me, which has the greatest frozen yogurt of all time, and talked and laughed with Fred. Suddenly, Fred glanced down at the Earth (which seemed pretty small from the moon) and sighed. "Girls, it's been great. But, unfortunately, I have to get you back to Earth."
With great sadness, both girls closed their eyes. "Okay. You can open them now." And they were back in the field, only this time it was brown and dry and kind of ugly. Fred was nowhere to be seen, and the breeze had died down. Rubbing their eyes, both girls looked at each other trying to make sure they both had been there for all the adventures of the day. Wide-eyed it dawned on them, that no one would ever believe their story. "Look!" Taryn squealed. "There's still moon dust on our shoes."
"But, Taryn, the swing, the beautiful trees, all of it is gone. Fred is gone."
"Goodbye, Fred." Taryn said sadly. "Hopefully someday we get to see you again."
And the two girls, walked slowly back to their own houses, remembering the events of the night.
It's said that to this day, when the breeze is blowing just right in Katieville, Taryn and Kelsey can find the enchanted field, and that when they do, you can see the man on the moon smile just a little bit, because Kelsey, Taryn and Fred are there for tea again.
There you have it. My miserable attempt at a fictional story.
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl♥
It was a typical boring night, with nothing to do in the small town of Katieville (okay. . . if I'm writing a story about two of my wonderful friends, I'm going to have to stick myself in there). Kelsey was working on yet another homework assignment. She looked at the paper, and sighed, then wrote a few more words. Drumming her fingers on the table she thought about what else she could write, then finally set down her pencil and grabbed her coat. "Brit. I'm going for a walk. I'll be back soon." She called down the hallway to her younger sister. "Mmf" came the muffled reply from her sister. Sliding on her coat, she walked out the front door, into the breezy evening air. (I'm telling you . . . this fiction stuff is NOT my forte.)
At the same time, Taryn's cat buddy, Mort, had finally grown bored of playing with his toy, and was snoozing on the couch, while Mae Mobely (another cat friend of Taryn's) was hiding somewhere, probably napping. Using Mort's current actions as her excuse, she grabbed a sweatshirt and headed out for a walk of her own. Strolling down the street, she spotted Kelsey, called out "Hey!" and waved. Jogging briskly, she caught up to Kelsey and the two strolled in silence for a bit. Then, Taryn pushed her long, brown hair behind her ear and shrugged "Were you bored too?" Kelsey chuckled "Yeah. It's Katieville. Who isn't bored here?" (I just realized that I named the town in my story after myself, and made it a boring town. I'm so skilled.)
After walking some ways, the girls came to a field on the edge of town. "Should we turn back?" Kelsey asked, her blonde hair being blown in her face by the breeze. Taryn shrugged. "Why not just walk through it? Something new and exciting." The sarcasm was thick in her voice. Both girls took a step into the field, and suddenly a huge gust of wind picked up. "Did you feel that?" Kelsey said. Taryn giggled "You're too paranoid. It's been windy all night."
"Alright. Alright. I'm just nervous. This field creeps me out a little bit."
"Why does it creep you out?" Taryn giggled.
"Because," Kelsey sighed. "I don't know. It just does."
The girls came to the edge of the field where they discovered a fence that blocked off an enchanting grove of trees, and a little pond. "Whoa," Kelsey whispered in awe. "I never knew that was there." Suddenly, Taryn glanced at Kelsey with a scheming gleam in her eye. "You know we're going in there, right?" Kelsey looked slightly startled and then nodded her consent. They pushed apart two of the fence slats that were hanging loosely by only the top nail and climbed through one at a time. Walking towards the pond, the two girls looked in awe at what surrounded them. The grass around them was a crisp emerald green, and speckled with tiny wildflowers. The trees swayed lightly in the breeze, and the setting sun created a backdrop of gorgeous pinks and oranges. Suddenly, an excited squeal escaped Kelsey "Look! A swing!" She ran over and hopped on the little board swing, hanging from the tree. "This is magical!" Suddenly, there was a flash of light, and the trees began to rustle. Both girls froze, and suddenly, a unicorn appeared from behind the trees. "You're the first one to realize that for years now." He said. "I've been waiting for someone to see the magic, which allows me to come and visit." Taryn giggled nervously, "You're . . . a . . . unicorn." she said.
"You got a problem with that?" he snorted.
Kelsey just stared wide-eyed, taking in what was happening.
Taryn stammered again, "You're . . . you're . . . a . . . a . . . UNICORN."
The unicorn rolled his eyes, "Yeah. So, we've established."
Finally Kelsey asked him "So, why are you here?"
The unicorn turned to face her in all his majestic glory, "To do whatever the heck you want."
"What if I want to go to the moon?" Kelsey asked.
"Whatever you say." replied the unicorn.
"Hey. Wait a second," Taryn stated. "We don't know your name."
"Oh, yeah, I'm bad with introductions. When you don't have any interaction in several hundred years, it's hard to remember your manners sometimes. I'm Fred."
"Fred, the unicorn?" Kelsey asked, slightly shocked.
"Yeah. You got a problem with that?"
"No. No problem at all." Kelsey replied.
"Good. Now close your eye, Toots." Fred said.
Both girls closed their eyes.
"Now open them!"
Opening their eyes, both girls looked around them. They were on the moon. (Yeah. Don't mind my really lame attempt at fiction. I'm also half asleep right now.) Both of them began bouncing around, testing the lowered gravity of the moon. Giggling, they began twirling and jumping, enjoying the feel of being seemingly weightless. "Fred, come join us." Taryn shouted breathlessly.
"Me? You want me to join?" Fred asked.
"Of course," Kelsey said. "If it weren't for you, we never could have taken this adventure."
"What if I told you that there was some really cool stuff here?" Fred asked excitedly.
"Then I'd tell you to show us." Taryn replied.
"Well," Fred stated. "Then follow me."
First, Fred showed them the northern lights from space.
Then, he showed them a solar flare, and how it looks from the sun.
After that, he showed them Pluto, and explained that Pluto should still be a planet, but there was some political differences between the other planets and Pluto, and they kicked it out of the planet council.
Then, he introduced them to the man on the moon. Who, it turns out, is actually a man, who also happened to paint his picture onto the side of the moon. They enjoyed a lovely tea with the man on the moon (his name is John, in case you were wondering.) who recommended a frozen yogurt shop called "Moon Me" to them. They visited Moon Me, which has the greatest frozen yogurt of all time, and talked and laughed with Fred. Suddenly, Fred glanced down at the Earth (which seemed pretty small from the moon) and sighed. "Girls, it's been great. But, unfortunately, I have to get you back to Earth."
With great sadness, both girls closed their eyes. "Okay. You can open them now." And they were back in the field, only this time it was brown and dry and kind of ugly. Fred was nowhere to be seen, and the breeze had died down. Rubbing their eyes, both girls looked at each other trying to make sure they both had been there for all the adventures of the day. Wide-eyed it dawned on them, that no one would ever believe their story. "Look!" Taryn squealed. "There's still moon dust on our shoes."
"But, Taryn, the swing, the beautiful trees, all of it is gone. Fred is gone."
"Goodbye, Fred." Taryn said sadly. "Hopefully someday we get to see you again."
And the two girls, walked slowly back to their own houses, remembering the events of the night.
It's said that to this day, when the breeze is blowing just right in Katieville, Taryn and Kelsey can find the enchanted field, and that when they do, you can see the man on the moon smile just a little bit, because Kelsey, Taryn and Fred are there for tea again.
There you have it. My miserable attempt at a fictional story.
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl♥
Monday, March 17, 2014
CrazyGirl Observes Callings
So, I've been doing some deep life evaluation lately. I've been looking hard at what drives me, and what my priorities are. And, I realized that I'm doing it all wrong.
Last Sunday, while I was at church, the pastor said that God wants our all, but God also wants our "it" or that thing that we go "Okay God, you can have everything, but . . . you know what? I think I'll hold onto this one little thing." God desires our "it." No matter what it may be. Immediately, I realized that my "it" is my desire for a relationship. I consistently go "Okay God, you can have everything, every aspect of my life . . . but, I think I'll keep this one. You don't want to be bothered with it anyway."
Now, giving God your "it" is NOT an easy task. It's not a one time task. In fact, for me it's daily. Every morning before I even throw off the covers I pray that God would take my desire for a relationship and do with it what he chooses. I find myself uttering this prayer multiple times on any given day. It seems strange, I know. But, I have now gotten to the point where I can honestly say that I don't need a guy, and I can MEAN it. This is a first for me. I've said that before, knowing that it was what people wanted to hear, but I never really lived that. Now, for the first time in my life, I can say that I don't need a relationship, and I'm not looking for one. That feels great.
And, it led me to realize just how much time I was investing in my search for "happiness" even though I would have told you I didn't spend any extra time on that if you'd asked me, even just a week ago. Now, I'm looking at all the possibilities that lay ahead of me. I am currently working on getting a degree and my teaching credential so that I can go on to teach kindergarten. I am surrounded by friends that I adore and can invest my time and energy into. I come from an amazing family; a dad who is stronger than anyone I know (especially me), whom I love and admire, a mom who is so loving, and who I aspire to be like, an older sister who sets an example for me and is beautiful both inside and out, a younger brother who makes me laugh and has a contagious smile, and a younger sister who is so full of spunk and doesn't take crap from anyone. I am attending my dream university.
As if that's not enough of a blessing, I just found out that I get to start helping in a Sunday School class for one of the churches near my school, which is amazingly exciting for me. I have a heart for children, and having the opportunity to dedicate my Sunday mornings to being with them makes me so happy. I have no doubt that God has called me into children's ministry. Whether that means helping in Sunday School classrooms, or putting my energy into working with AWANA clubs again, or setting an example of Christ's love for the children in my classroom someday, or maybe even someday being involved in the lives of my children and pouring my time and energy into raising children who show God's love to others; no matter the path, I know I'm supposed to be working with children. It's where God has called me, where he's given me a passion. And I cannot wait for the opportunity to follow that passion. Children's ministry, here I come!
Til Next Time,
CrazyGirl♥
Last Sunday, while I was at church, the pastor said that God wants our all, but God also wants our "it" or that thing that we go "Okay God, you can have everything, but . . . you know what? I think I'll hold onto this one little thing." God desires our "it." No matter what it may be. Immediately, I realized that my "it" is my desire for a relationship. I consistently go "Okay God, you can have everything, every aspect of my life . . . but, I think I'll keep this one. You don't want to be bothered with it anyway."
Now, giving God your "it" is NOT an easy task. It's not a one time task. In fact, for me it's daily. Every morning before I even throw off the covers I pray that God would take my desire for a relationship and do with it what he chooses. I find myself uttering this prayer multiple times on any given day. It seems strange, I know. But, I have now gotten to the point where I can honestly say that I don't need a guy, and I can MEAN it. This is a first for me. I've said that before, knowing that it was what people wanted to hear, but I never really lived that. Now, for the first time in my life, I can say that I don't need a relationship, and I'm not looking for one. That feels great.
And, it led me to realize just how much time I was investing in my search for "happiness" even though I would have told you I didn't spend any extra time on that if you'd asked me, even just a week ago. Now, I'm looking at all the possibilities that lay ahead of me. I am currently working on getting a degree and my teaching credential so that I can go on to teach kindergarten. I am surrounded by friends that I adore and can invest my time and energy into. I come from an amazing family; a dad who is stronger than anyone I know (especially me), whom I love and admire, a mom who is so loving, and who I aspire to be like, an older sister who sets an example for me and is beautiful both inside and out, a younger brother who makes me laugh and has a contagious smile, and a younger sister who is so full of spunk and doesn't take crap from anyone. I am attending my dream university.
As if that's not enough of a blessing, I just found out that I get to start helping in a Sunday School class for one of the churches near my school, which is amazingly exciting for me. I have a heart for children, and having the opportunity to dedicate my Sunday mornings to being with them makes me so happy. I have no doubt that God has called me into children's ministry. Whether that means helping in Sunday School classrooms, or putting my energy into working with AWANA clubs again, or setting an example of Christ's love for the children in my classroom someday, or maybe even someday being involved in the lives of my children and pouring my time and energy into raising children who show God's love to others; no matter the path, I know I'm supposed to be working with children. It's where God has called me, where he's given me a passion. And I cannot wait for the opportunity to follow that passion. Children's ministry, here I come!
Til Next Time,
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