whatever is lovely

i'm pretty passive when it comes to things of a political nature.  and so i will willfully neglect to comment on my views (which i'm not even fully decided or firm on) about today's events.  i didn't even know anything was happening until i checked social media, honestly.   all i know is that what i read hurt my heart.  the content, somewhat, but mostly the delivery is what affected me, and so i must say it:  WORDS MATTER TO GOD! He has been laying this theme on me heavy for weeks now.  elihu in the book of job says best how my heart feels : "i too will have my say,  i too will tell what I know.  for i am full of words,  and the spirit within me compels me; inside i am like bottled-up wine,  like new wineskins ready to burst. i must speak and find relief;  i must open my lips and reply.  i will show no partiality,  nor will i flatter anyone" {Job 32:17-21} from the WORD of G...

spring break is officially over.  after a week of rest, sun, and laughter, there was no foyer into reality. i entered right in and set to work: studying, doing homework, fulfilling obligations, and running errands. it felt kinda good. that doesn't mean i didn't complain though.  i was finally able to go to the grocery store this afternoon (so i can eat something other than a smoothie for dinner). my test was over and my to do list was nearly crossed out, and so i took my time weaving through the aisles, even though i was only picking up essentials. i said hello and smiled at some acquaintances, but for the most part i minded my own business. i was feeling pretty great, honestly... the weather was beautiful, my schoolwork for the week completed, and i had been told multiple times both my hair and my tan looked good today.   as i waited in the check out, a man stepped behind me in line. i could smell the smoke and alcohol on him from several feet away, and looke...

sweet, smart, sassy, savvy sissy mine has a birthday today.  she's been around for 30 years now.  goodness, am i thankful to have been a part of life with her, the life that emanates through her, for almost 22 of those.  for a good, long 18 years she was the big sister i admired from afar. there's always been a lot for which to admire her... she's kinda got her stuff together. like being a super athlete. being really pretty. having lots of friends. a cute wardrobe. cool braces at one point in time. plus, you kinda have to listen to her when you're 7 and she sits on you  babysits you.   she became a real saint in my eyes when she became a nephew-giver.  i can't stop praising Jesus, though, that i have gotten the chance to know her most recently as a friend. moving to texas & nearer to her has allowed us to share more than holidays... we share stories, struggles, laughs, cries, meals, silly movie and wine nights, wisdom, corr...