Beginnings

Where do beginnings really begin anyways?
I laugh at myself every time I think about the triumphs, the tribulations, and the treasures in my life when I am surprised by them. Why am I surprised? I think that I so quickly forget that this life, my beautiful, magical and absolutely crazy life, isn't mine to plan. I can be a good steward of it, I can not be lazy and live in it with gratitude and glory to spare, but I can't tell it which path IS the only one I will take. What human always sticks to the plans anyways? ;)



So being prayerful, I choose one. I choose one that settles my heart, settles my mind, and gives my spirit peace. Sometimes, you just have to trust that it is the right path. With this new beginning and this direction I have chose, I feel secure enough to tell you that I am safe in the path I am walking, but time and plans can show us that.

When I said yes to Billy when he asked me to marry him, I immediately thought "what a beautiful beginning for us". And it is! We are jumping full on into this exciting and new life, together, as a team. Where was the beginning though? The versions of when the beginning of our life together is are endless, but I know one thing, I feel moved and honored that we are chosen to do this together.

We have learned so much, and we have given so much. We have given up anything that we couldn't do alone to a Higher and much more powerful provider, and in turn I love the outcome. Without idolization of each other, or jealousy, or unrighteous anger... we get to start watering this beginning, this seed of our future with trust, honor, and an immense amount of love. That, my friends, is worth caring for!
Our journey feels like this innocent, but awesome picture of us growing out of the soil. Our soil feels like we have been watered with so much good. The good comes from the blessings of our friends and family, to the kindness we show each other. Our relationship with each other (and with God) reap the benefits of our good and healthy. The stronger we are, the stronger and greener we'll grow. And the stronger we grow, the stronger we grow with our community, with our families, with our lives apart and together. To me, it's an amazing and exciting discovery.

And so the proposal? Everyone should know how much I love that fiancee of mine. We had the time of our life when I was in Korea. Despite anything we struggled with in terms of the government and neighboring countries (hope you keep up on the news!) we grew so much together and I haven't laughed that hard, in a long time.

We went out to a really nice dinner when we were finally lifted from the lock down, we were thrilled to get out. We talked about our lives, where they were going, what we want, and so on. When Billy and I talked about marriage and starting this big adventure together, I wasn't nervous in the slightest. I knew that I had someone sitting across from me that cares about me so much, so genuinely.
When I got to San Francisco, I called Billy to tell him I had landed safely. He asked how my flight was, how I was doing, and when I would be home. I told him I had a feeling I would stay in San Francisco for some of the day, but I would go home late afternoon, early evening. He asked me to call when I got home, of course I agreed, not very suspicious. I shopped with his parents around San Francisco, missing him but being grateful to be safe and having the quality time with Debbie and Travis. Later that afternoon, Billy called again to see if I was on the way home, and I told him I still was gone. I laughed because it surprised me that he was calling to check in, but still, I wasn't suspecting much.

I got back to Billy's parents house and I called Billy to tell him I was home, he and I had a round about discussion and finally, I started to get the hints...

I found a card in my backpack that was the dead give away. I was about to get myself into a whole lot of surprise!

Before I knew it, I was being whisked away in my fairy tale, and never the way I imagined it. Billy had been given a ring, from his family, as a gift to me. An absolute surprise for me, but I could have never imagined a better one. Although Billy had a ring to get me on his own, it isn't quite here yet, and his family completely blessed us with a treasure from them... a piece of them that is absolutely irreplaceable. Since the other ring wasn't there yet, he didn't get to propose in Korea, but his parents gave him this beautiful gift, and the fact that he was able to share that with me, and his parents, when I got home was beautiful. And, it was such an ease to the sadness I felt to missing him. At his parents house the ring was waiting for me with this beautiful surprise. I was explained that this was mine, for me to have. Even when my new ring arrives, I have been so blessed to have something incredible to cherish about this day. There is not much more special than that. While skyping with him in squeals, tears, and excitement, I was completely poured into by Billy; I was showered with love a declaration of trust, and the utmost commitment.


I am eager to share how special I think he is, and how excited I am that God continues to do His things, and lines us up to do his will! I love thinking about what is in store, and where we are headed!

There are plenty of other little details that I have not included in here a) for length reasons, sheesh! and b) because really, it is so fun to tell in person to get all the "he said" & "she said".
But, those of you interested I will definitely give you that visit, phone call, or skype date.

Again, this is something I never thought that I could experience. I was that young girl that cried to my mom because I thought I would never get married. I cannot wait for this upcoming year, and to continue to share my blessings with you. I feel like I have more to be thankful for, more to be grateful for, than I could ever mention in a paragraph.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read the updates of my life... each one of you are so incredible to me, and to the both of us, for making this time in our lives as special as it is. I CHERISH YOU!

Evolution

I think it is amazing how we, as a species, evolve in our family roles.

Bare with me, just for a minute. Think about your "family of origin", the ones that brought you into this world. For most of us, they are the ones that raised us, that stuck it out with us, that move through it with us... through every stage a long the way.

Then this shift happens. Members find their "person" and start their own family. And all these families blend. They merge and become individual units, and part of a bigger tribe. When all this happens, when everyone moves together, there is something so powerful in that.

Being at the hospital and being with members and units of one side to my family, is so cool. It shows togetherness and God's work and hand in the
beauty of our life. We become this big tree, as cliche and corny as that is.

The best part is, I would sleep on the hospital floor or I would not sleep, I would rub backs, and I would hold hands... I would wipe tears, I would wear face masks, and I would pray and hang on tight if it meant I could be with my family and be a part of it. I got to laugh and cry and hug and experience every single emotion under the sun, but I was invited, I was allowed, I was blessed to be a part of that.

I heard stranger's stories, and I saw strangers cry. I saw strangers laugh, and I saw strangers deal. I saw strangers eat, and strangers stare without a single expression. That is our life, and it is so big. You get thrown into this mess of it, and it seems unfathomable how much happens every day, that we don't even have time to think about.

Maybe think about something you don't make time to think about today. Praise and be grateful for the littlest thing, that seems so easy to do... I sure will!

Thanks for keepin' up and I'll post something new, when I have something to write :)

Cassandra

The days seem to fly but it even seems hard to say that when I know that each day is so precious. I want to be able to soak it all in. There is so much to our huge life that sometimes, we feel so small. Or maybe even insignificant.

There is something so significant about the special people in my life. There is one young woman who always seems to come to mind right now when I think of someone who is so treasured and so blessed by God's grace, strength, and mercy. I think that this young woman that I know, and that I love as if she was my sister, is a beautiful example of power. My darling Cassie is eighteen years old. She did what most eighteen year olds do. She graduated high school, she went to prom. She laughed, she cried, and she learned a lot a long the way. She did somethings though, that not every eighteen year old goes through. She got married, she had a baby. Life just seems to never slow down for Cas. She's been raising her little beautiful baby boy, but not without struggle. From my previous posts you know what Zayd has gone through, so you must know what Cassie is going through. She has a full time job and at a time was commuting between her job, three hours to the hospital. When she got her leave of absence from work,she has been able to just be at the hospital with our sweet and precious angel. She has spent the first few months of Zayd's life talking about his future heart surgeries (yes, plural), his breathing and feeding tubes, what to do if he was to turn blue, and how to support him with the proper nutrition, medicine, and care. She doesn't get to take him any where she wants, she doesn't get to play with him any way that she wants. But still, through all of that, she is an amazing mother. Can you imagine doing this, ever, in your span of parenting? How exhausting and overwhelming! But Cassie does it. And she's eighteen. And not only does she "do it", but she is a Mom with exceptional spirit. With positivity, with love, and with strength. She asks the tough questions, she stands up for what she needs to, she understands that her family, this unit that she has created, is what deserves her compassion. They deserve it.

I can't even fathom anyone saying Cassie isn't strong, or that she hasn't grown up (sometimes she seems older than me!) and that she isn't a great Mom. It is without doubt that if you look closer at the real person Cassie is... you will see greatness. She is just absolutely a vision of beauty, and someone to be so proud of.

I am so incredibly blessed to know her. And to do life with her, and to be and Auntie to the most beautiful boy I've known thus far. My life has been forever changed by Cas because she has taught me to be strong, to be someone's hero, and to love with wild abandon. She has taught me to be tough and keep your chin up, and to never, ever doubt yourself.

Cassie, I love you so much. I always will. You move me with your faith and your love for those around you. Thank you for being who you are, and being so true.

Waiting on clearance

Hi readers!

So today was the day, the big surgery day (see previous blog if you are at all confused). However, a few nights ago we found out that surgery will be postponed until next week due to fluid in Zayd's lungs. I know we are all anxious for him to get well, so this news was a little disheartening, for me anyway. I know Cassie is really anxious to see her baby healthy, so the consistency in prayer would be great.

The surgery, if he is healthy enough, will be November 5th. The Parsons are waiting on him getting a feeding tube now because he has not been able to eat much over the last couple of days.

I want to thank all of you who were praying for Zayd and for the rest of us family, including me. I had a lot to accomplish today and in preparation for spending the day at UC Davis (which will now be sometime next week), but I made it through with grace and a calm spirit, especially yesterday. Thank you so much! He has been there two weeks now, and I know that we're all just wanting him to be healthy. Please pray for the doctors to have wisdom and an open door to what is going on... there are so many questions we continue to have, day by day.

I am thoroughly enjoying the weather change here in Chico. The air is cooler, I can even see my breath in the morning! Reality is really setting in that fall is upon us. There is so much I love about fall, especially here. It is really beautiful here, I think probably because it doesn't rain as much as home ;)
But the air is cooler, and the sun is shining. I like all the local coffee places where I can snuggle up and read or do homework. The best part is running into people I know, all the time. How cool is our community?

This is hard

As you can see, I have not kept up on my blog... there seems like an overwhelming amount to catch up on. I'm going to have to take baby steps, a little here a little there. I have had a busy summer. Seems like just a busy life, period. Here's something though that I never expected. And something that I know God will move me through. Here's something, that is hard. I think this hard place is a good place to restart my blog, because never in my life have I wanted to share a story as bad as this one. This is one that I want everyone to hear so that for one second they can experience this... this toughness, and fear. This is the type of fear that drives a faith so deep and so strong, I can't even explain it. I want people to experience this insane amount of love for someone else. This is something that I know deserves this.

Anyone who has met him has fallen in love with him. Zayd Craig Parsons is now eleven weeks old and he is... so strong. He is my nephew, and one of the most beautiful babies I have ever seen, I have ever known. I may be bias, but oh if you could just hold him. If you could watch him look at you, if you could hear him breathe. He looks so perfect when he sleeps, and he is loved, SO loved by everyone that knows him. Even those that don't. I am so blessed to have been an aunt that can love, hug, kiss, and hold him. He deserves that.

Zayd is fighting really hard right now, more than any 11 week old should. Please don't read this story about Zayd and think it is just another devastating story about a small boy who is sick. This isn't about pity, or to be sad. This is about what Zayd deserves and he always deserves our best, at least I think so. Our little peanut is so much more than any story. So, so, so much more. He fights his odds everyday and proves to us that he is so strong, but he has a lot coming for him this week that he should never have to face. On Tuesday, Zayd is having an open heart, reconstructive surgery. For those that don't know his story, you may gasp at this. What if I tell you this is his second heart surgery, in eleven weeks? What would you say then? I can hardly believe how much he is gone through, and really, we knew he would have another surgery. It is not supposed to be now. The doctors say that they want him to be bigger, but the surgery has to be now. It has to be Tuesday.



Zayd has so much to fight for. His parents love him, so much. His family loves him so much. But he also needs us so badly. Any readers out there, I am asking something that I know you hear a lot. But please, just keep on reading for one minute. I am asking you to pray. I am asking for prayer for favor during his four to six hour surgery, I am asking you to pray for knowledge and strength in the doctor's. I am asking you to pray for his family, his parents, all of us that will be waiting in the waiting room to hear that he is going to recover healthily. I asking you, please, to pray for him to be well. If you don't pray, if you've never prayed... could you start today? There's a song that I am thinking of right now and part of the lyrics say, "If you've got to start somewhere, why not here? If you've got to start sometime why not now?" I had chills when I heard that song today because I thought, this is exactly what I need to ask... I just need to ask for this one thing for him, this one prayer.

The plan is already set and we don't even know what it will be. I have no idea what Tuesday will bring us. But whatever it is, whatever the outcome, we will be be so impacted and blessed by prayer.

If I didn't love him so much, this may not be as hard. But I do, and it is. Waiting for Tuesday is excruciating, but all I can do is have faith in the goodness and pray for all the rest.

For those of you who took the time to sit down and read this, thank you. I couldn't actually thank you enough. I may seem distant the next couple days, but now you will know where my head is at...and where my heart is at, too :)

Celebrate her!

Happy Mothers Day!

There are so many women in my life that are fabulous mothers. Fabulous mothers to their children, and wonderful to me.

There are so many reasons to celebrate today. Julie got to celebrate with the newest child in her life, Megan Irene. So small, so perfect and such a blessing to our lives. I am so privileged to be able to stay with them this summer and get to be involved with this baby's first few months. She is already such a gem, SUCH gift!


Moms that are being mothers for the first time! Although pregnant last mother's day, but now able to hold their daughters.

Jenna, my cousin Ben's girlfriend got to spend her Mother's Day with her beautiful daughter Millie. Also, Erin was able to hold her bundle of joy this mother's day...and not in her belly!
Katarina is one of the most gorgeous babies I have ever seen and it is so fun to be witnessing her grow, and to grow with her momma! Both of these young moms have so much love for their girls! They sacrifice what they need to to give the best possible life for their girls. It's so fun and inspiring to watch them adore their beauties. And let me tell you, these girls feel it! They know exactly how much they are loved.

There's mothers to be, and that is equally exciting. My dear friend Megan Walling is due in July, as well as Megan Osbon! Both boys, and I couldn't be more excited for either mom. Cassie has her darling angel on the way too, another boy, another mom-to-be! :) What an adventure to be with these women as they travel through pregnancy. Boys, boys, boys!

Most of all, my mother was the spot light of my day. How in the world did I get so blessed with a woman with such grace and such compassion to be MY mother? Everyone says their mother is the best. I know for a fact mine is the best for me. I learn something new from my mom, literally every day. I have heard throughout my whole life... "Your mom is really something"..."Terri Jones is your mom? Wow!" or "Gosh I wish my mom was like your mom..." I usually smile and say thank you, or "Yea I know, she's fabulous!" but inside these people have no idea how great she really is, and how much she works through every day to provide for my brother and I. She is incredible. People tell me all the time I look like my mom. I think as a child I would roll my eyes, and mutter a thank you. Now it's a high and happily received compliment. People tell me now that I'm like her, or that I have certain tendencies or personality traits. That kind of gets me excited... we must be related huh Mom? :) Being like her, is exciting. You can laugh at how cheesy that sounds... but if you know my mom, you'd agree.
I remember when I was sick during my first year of college, REALLY sick, she called a flower company and they went shopping for me and put a basket together of soup, orange juice, and lots of other goodies.

Only my mom would think to do that for me.

Or when I was having my emergency appendectomy. She asked the surgeon if he could wait for morning so that she could fly out there and be there when I went under. He said no. She took the first flight out anyway. Not only did she come, she stayed for the whole weekend. She did my laundry, cleaned my apartment, and bought me groceries.

That is my mom.

It's the little things. And of course the big things. No matter what she does, she's doing it with love and she's doing it with hopes that we will succeed.

Thank you Mom, for everything little and big thing you have ever done. You know as well as I that I could fill so much of this blog with things that you have done for me.

Life is so BIG

From reading old letters,
to finding your missing Passport.
From donating some of your favorite clothes,
to organizing every collected sticker.

From listening and uploading ALL your old CDS,
to attempting to study your homework.
From sitting in a sea of boxes,
to feeling proud that you're taking a stand.

From having lunch with a good friend,
to having multiple hour long phone calls.
From believing in something so much bigger,
to enjoying the littlest treasure.

From having your name said with L's (i.e. Braaaannaaallaaaa)
to wiping up boogers and chocolate.
From crying because you've never been happier,
to crying because sometimes it stings.

From missing your best friend,
to telling them just that...five times a day.
From not understanding purpose,
to realizing it's not up to you.

From learning the heart of a stranger,
to letting someone get closer.
From wishing away others' pain,
to casting dreams of your own.

In one day, each little moment can mean so much more than its surface value. One word, one phrase, can touch someone in a way that you couldn't even begin to fathom.


Today, I have a high value for my life and for those who are in it.
Amen, to that wonderful reality!

John 16:33

"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

Meet the wonderful Alisha Murray!
Alisha has been an accountability partner for me. I will NEVER forget the day that I met Alisha. I was going to college group for the first time and of course, entering a room of people that are so evidently close when you don't know anyone, can be a little intimidating. Alisha greeted me with a sweet smile. I will never forget the way she approached me. She pulled a chair up close and said "I just wanted you to know that I LOVE your sweater, the color is so fun and bright and you are so beautiful! I love your hair and you just glow" ... or something along those lines. It was incredible how genuine and real it felt and I was SO moved by her kindness! That is Alisha.
She is always around the corner when I need that extra hug, or that extra encouragement. Even if it is from 650 miles away. We have gotten into this great habit of sending each other message updates and really just spilling out our lives and where we're at.So commonly we get placed in similar situations which is such a blessing! I can relate to her so much, so often. I can't imagine what my life would be like without her. I am so excited to make more and MANY memories with this beautiful young woman. You're a rockstar, sweet heart!

Colleen Mary Cole

Meet Col!


Looks like this hot shot is getting a whole post to herself, since she wasn't at the bottom on the last one. I don't even know where to begin though, about Colleen. I can be goofy and tell her all day long about how "I need her in my life!" or "You're the cucumber to my ritz!" or "Something doesn't feel quite the same without you!" but that doesn't even cover the nitty-gritty get down to it reasons that I love and appreciate Colleen's friendship. Colleen will always be real with me, even when I think I want to hear it and then realize I don't. She will always tell me how she feels, or tell me her opinion. But in the same regard, when I mess up, or say something stupid, or act stupid, she doesn't hold judgment to me. She doesn't mother me, or baby me, she just loves me right where I'm at. Whether it's in the middle of a mess, or in the middle of a puddle of happy tears. In a short amount of time, I knew I'd struck gold with a roommate. I can't even believe this is our third year at Chico right around the corner, because time has gone by so fast. It is crazy cuz now I get sad thinking about NOT living with Colleen. This semester away has been hard but such a blessing. It has been hard because seriously, as dumb as this sounds (you can laugh you guys) I miss Colleen everyday! Just having someone to talk to whenever I want, or sit awkwardly on the couch with when our days just aren't going right. But, it has been a blessing because I know now more than ever how much I appreciate Colleen. She has been there for me, through IT ALL. Literally. The dumbest things, and the best things. Having someone be so close to you is so much fun We laugh and joke about our lives years from now, but the best part is, I know that we will be best friends for years and years to come. There's not a doubt in my mind. So... Colleen, as long winded and sappy as this is, just know that no matter where in this world I am, I care about you more than you know, and always want the best for you. You're beautiful, you're amazing, and you're one of the best people I have ever met. I could never thank you enough for every single little thing you do for me.

Alki and other sunshiney things

Today I went to Alki beach because...

1. I love West Seattle
2. I needed to see Megan Waldron so I picked her up to come with me.
3. It was sunny and you need to celebrate sunny April days in the PNW!

All day though, despite the sun and happy, happy faces, I have just been thinking of those less fortunate than me. One of those is baby Cash, who is on his way to Houston today to undergo radiation treatment. For those of you who have read about him earlier, or have been praying for him with me, he's really in some trouble and it is time to take further action. Him and his dad traveled to Houston today to begin 7-8 weeks of extensive radiation. The hard part is, he is only eighteen months old so he has to be put under when they do it, so he doesn't wiggle. Our poor little guy really needs grace and lots of rest. My heart breaks for him today! His mom and older brother will stay behind for a few weeks because momma is so pregnant! So not only will Cash and his dad miss the baby's birth, but mom has to wait a few weeks until she can get to her other warrior and comfort him. It's a family that is going through SO much and still, so faithful.

I am moved by how positive and optimistic they are.

I went to church at MH Ballard this evening and it just hit the nail right on the head for what I was feeling. Seeking healing (physical, emotional, and spiritual) is key... but God doesn't owe it to us to fix what we feel is broken. We can ask and receive grace, but we can't test him.
Woah good thing God is so good though right?

Last night, Julian rocked and rolled through his Little League game.
Presley didn't make me feel so bad either, greeting me with shrieks and sprinting over to me around the bleachers. He is so darn cute I hate thinking about leaving these families again. Watching them grow is an experience of a life time and one that I could never take for granted.

To think, just yesterday it feels like Amee was telling us she was pregnant.

And now, a short-stack of joy. With a goofy grin and the occasional snot bubble, this now "toddler" could steal my heart with one giggle!

They grow so fast.

I'm all warm and fuzzy inside! :) The sunshine... it gets to me.

Tangled

Good morning blog readers!

Today is a beautiful day in the Pacific Northwest. It is sunny and time for some baseball! I am going to watch a little league game today. I haven't been able to do that in awhile so go, Julian... Jelly is going to rock it I'm sure! Let the games begin...

I am so excited for this summer. I haven't been really in the summer state of mind until the last couple days. There is just so much to look forward to! It's really awesome that I have so many wonderful opportunities.

Along with the summer, I am also trying to plan a trip to Europe for November. Hillary will be back in Switzerland by then and Blayne will be staying in Spain for a semester doing a Study Abroad.

Each day is woven into the next. I have so many things I want to do today, and I just pray that anything I don't accomplish, there will something done for them tomorrow. Whether it is me, or someone else getting to do them. I feel like I have this check list of things that I'm passionate about, and there is just so much. My Bucket List is so huge! I refuse to take one day for granted, when there are so many amazing things in this world to see and be a part of.

Today is about productive. I have canvases to finish, homework to complete, and errands to run.
I said a prayer last week that my Environmental Science midterm would go well because good grades would really encourage my spirit through the end of this semester. I was really worried about it. I got an 88%.

Life is so good in the small things.

I love this song right now:


"You find your faith has been lost and shaken, you take back what's been taken. Get on your knees and dig down deep, you can do what you think is impossible. Keep on believing, don't give in, it'll come and make you whole again. It always will, it always does, love is unstoppable"

I have a fountain of abundance in my life. It amazes me every single day.

Enjoy today for what is has to offer YOU. I know I will!

Clouds and quiet

I am sitting in my living room and watching out the window and completely admiring how still it is outside. There is hardly a breeze, everything is so calm. Wow. I feel like I needed that today! The clouds have covered the sky so it's gray and a little chilly. I like the sun everyday of course, but today is really giving me a lot of peace.

I have Mat Kearney in the background. For those that don't know him, download him! He's fabulous. Listen to the words of this song and tell me what YOU think of. I know what I think of!

"It's undeniable, how brilliant you are. In a unreliable world, you shine like a star. It's unforgettable, now that we've come this far, it's unmistakable that you're undeniable.

You're the only one who stuck it out last night. The only other one who caught the other line. You're the only one when this world collides, the one that I can't deny."


I have a lot of things I want to accomplish today. Before I go back to work, I am going to run and get passport pictures taken. Also, I have school work to catch up on and canvases to paint. Finally some time to do that. I have been really not able to make much time for that, and it is so important to me to work on them and really dive in with my paintbrush and lots of colors. Mmmm. Such simple things make me so happy.

Person to really love on today!

Meet Melanie McBroom!Gosh. Melanie is absolutely a wonderful gift. Also an April birthday! Eight more days until her twenty-first. There is so much to say about Melanie. The Lord really used Melanie in my life in a huge way; she was really instrumental in my walk with Christ and discovering myself! It's crazy because she really didn't know it was happening, she was just being who she is...which is so loving and so real. Melanie is FUN. All the time. She has such a spirit and spunk...anyone that knows her knows exactly what I am saying.I can honestly say that she blesses my life in so many ways, every day. She is BEAUTIFUL, don't you think? Look at that smile! The light of the Lord shines through her in a huge way. It's incredible. Mel, I hope you never forget how much I love you and how wonderful I think you are. Because you really are a vision! I could go on and on ... :)



Have an awesome day guys! Enjoy the things that bring you peace today.
Bri

Already April...

I really should get better about doing more frequent updates. It's funny how things slip away from you. I can have certain things be so routine to my day...good hygiene, reading, journaling, homework.... but blogging? Not as much!

Sometimes it is hard to think of something that has been entertaining or pressing enough to write down.

Darling Emily goes to Western Washington University, and this weekend I spent a day and night with her in Bellingham. Gosh what a beautiful city.I absolutely love it up there. Ocean breeze blows in (sometimes too hard) and this weekend, the sun was out. Definitely a gift!

It's crazy when you think about places.

There was so much of a possibility of me going to Western. But I chose not to. I chose to go onto a new place, even more new and unknown. Imagine if I would not have. There are so many people that you meet in each place, that change your life forever. Everyone is so intricately planted in my life. Sometimes it is hard to grapple with God's goodness and his plan! It's such an amazing thing....

My place right now is to shine. Wherever I am supposed to be physically, that's another opportunity given to me to shine a constant light of joy and helpfulness. I know I have big plans for my life, even for the RIGHT now. Whenever I feel anxious, I try to remember where I'm headed. Wait... I don't know where I'm headed! And that's okay. Wherever it is it will be a step in trust and an exciting journey. No one can deny THAT.



This verse really stuck out for me today.


I love to reflect on those that have made a substantial difference in my life.

Over the next month, I will feature someone at the end of my blog who has made a huge difference in my life. I won't put them in any specific order, everyone will get a chance!

Meet Megan Talbot Waldron! Megan is beautiful, talented, and absolutely gifted with grace. She is freshly nineteen, and that's kind of why I decided to start with her.Megan and I met three years ago through some mutual friends. It amazes me how so much wisdom and strength comes from someone who is only nineteen. Megan has always been a rock in my hectic life. I know that if I have struggles, I need prayer, or just someone to giggle with... Meggie is a great friend to call!
She an I have a very similar sense of humor. When we hang out, it usually involved hole-in-the-wall Seattle food joints, a delicious cup of coffee, and or her camera. I was so privileged this year to show her Chico and to have her come and play in the sunshine with me and all of my friends. I am so pleased her and I have stayed in touch, and that we have gotten closer over the last few months. She is someone who I really admire and I love her spunk and passion. Meg, you have made such an impact in my life! Thank you for being you...

Playing catch up

Wow! It has been awhile since I wrote. I need to start posting pictures as well. I need to get back into the routine of writing!

Life, has been good. I have traveled to Chico to visit in February, and had an absolute blast. I was there for eight days, and definitely learned what it is like to cherish those around you, and every penny in your checking account. I was so blessed by those that cooked for me, and were generous enough with their homes, and wallets. Even in a rough financial week, there was so much joy in the little things. I discovered awing in nature, and got to spend a lot of high quality time, with quality people. Beauty!

So lately, I have been working and really trying to work hard at my school work. I can't believe how fast the semester is flying by.

I have a lot on my plate for March.

Next weekend, my dear friends Allison and Mike are getting married. It's amazing when you can pause life for just long enough to sit and think about what that means. Wasn't it just days ago we were in the mud, or playing Barbies? Life is so sweet. I can't imagine what it would feel like to not cherish. Next Sunday, March 14th, I will be standing at the front of a church while my friends say their vows. It is unbelievable how quickly life moves.

The week following, I am so so so lucky to have Allie and Joey visiting. They are going to road trip up from Chico and stay with me while we tour the lovely Gig Harbor, and of course, Seattle. I am absolutely thrilled for this adventure. I know that we are going to have a blast and it will be many needed laughs and a lot of great memories. I am in the process, as I type to you, of putting together a recommendation letter for Allie for a scholarship she has been nominated for. She is such a blessing.

On the 20th, Emily and I will be traveling to the wonderful Orange County to have a date with Mickey Mouse ;) or, five days worth of dates. Disneyland seems to always do the trick. I can't wait to feel refreshed and energized by the sun, the beach, and happy children!

In the upcoming weeks, I pray for a good head on my shoulders, and a gift of relaxation. I know I have a lot to accomplish, but I am so excited for what is coming.

I think that having these plans and things to look forward to is really good for me. I can already see the wheels turning...

My desktop consists of budgets and plans for the next three months... and so it begins...

Enjoy your weekend!
I will be spending my sunny Pacific Northwest Sunday with Blayne at La Push exploring nature and doing some hiking. I am so fortunate.

Tarps and flying stickers

My kitchen is a flurry of a craft zone this evening. I have been hard at work raising money for Haiti by panting canvases. I will add some of the ones I've completed. I am asking for a donation of $10 and in return, you get a canvas size of your choice designed by me with whatever quote, verse, etc you prefer. The amount of people ready to support the cause is STAGGERING! So, so thrilling. I love to do this for those in need and to give personal gifts to my dear friends. It is a fun and completely win-win for me.

In the process however, I am head to toe in paint, much to large tarps, and STICKERS. Oh the organization must kick in because the amount of stickers I have and half used sheets, and unused sheets, and unopened sheets and almost empty sheets is... out of control. Oy!

It is almost two a.m. My days fly and are so jam-packed. The good news is, I am going to Chico this weekend, and so a) this week will fly by and I will be picked up by my lovely roommate! and b) I will enjoy a nice (somewhat relaxing) vacation. Ahh I am so looking forward to it.

To all of you accepting prayer requests, I have a couple!

+ Cash is a little boy who is 16 mo. old. One of my dear friends is his nanny, and Cash and his family live in Seattle. The doctors have just found a tumor at the bottom of Cash's neck, and they are doing extensive tests to see the severity. Please keep Cash and his family in your prayers. Let's do our best to support the little man in his tough fight, and place him and his family in a cradle of love!

+ I am starting a children Bible Study this Wednesday, February 10th. I am SO thrilled to get started and I would love it if you have a youngster that would like to join. We will begin with dinner and then jump into crafts, stories and songs. We will be together for a little over an hour and I am so excited. Email me with questions if you are interested (b_jones720@hotmail.com)
Keep this little group in your prayers as right now we will be beginning with two WONDERFUL children. Thank you!

All my love and blessings to you,
Bri

Really enjoying: lisaleonardonline.com

Already Wednesday?

WOW! I can't believe that it is half way through the week...where does the time go?

Tucking two of the little cherubs I babysit into bed tonight reminded me how blessed I am. They are so beautiful and growing so fast! The youngest was six months old when I met her. Now she is four and a half. I have absolutely no idea where those four years went, but getting to be a part of such influential years is such a treat and blessing.

While on the kid topic, Lauren and I did go to the Disney Rockin' Road Show this weekend with success. Pictures are on my facebook, but I will have to add some here. It was a blast. Walking into the arena she said, "Oh Brianna, this is my best day ever!!" Done. All worth it. She was fabulous and SO excited through out. Okay, even I was excited through out! It was really a blast and such a gift to be able to take her.

I have had a really great and exciting project put on my heart. Some of you know, I am painting cavases for Haiti! I just paint away a vision that someone has for me. Whether it's a verse, or a favorite quote, or line from a song. I can also do people's names, etc. I ask for a donation of $10, whether the piece is small or big it doesn't matter. All of my donations, every penny, goes to a disaster relief organization to help those in Haiti. It has been so fun and I have new requests each day! If any of you are interested, I would love to post some pictures here and feel free to contact me.

Blessings to each of you as the weekend is now approaching.
Enjoy Super Bowl Sunday as well (as the Saints... go marching in....oh the Saints go marching in...)

Just a drop of pixie dust...

Almost midnight. It seems to be witching hour these days, why can't I ever go to sleep at a decent hour?

From cards to crafts, the creative juices are flowing. Why you may ask? Valentine's Day. As much as I have a love-hate relationship with this holiday, nothing much can stop me from indulging in a little bit of craftiness. I am absolutely plotting a weekend of homework, crafts and... children?

Tomorrow I will be attending a six year old's Roller Rink birthday party. Followed by a much needed excursion to Michael's. Crafts! The remainder of the evening will be spent, hopefully, relaxing in mind and body with girl time. Seattle, you're beckoning me!

Sunday, is a new day in itself. A day of God? Yes I can do that! A day of rest? Well, this Sunday not so much. I will begin my day by taking two of my lovely cherubs to Everett. Oh Mickey Mouse we are dying to see you. Disney's Rockin' Road Show is in town and I have a four and two year old who should be thrilled with loud music and dance. The joy will be just fabulous. The evening will be more a wind down... reading and church. Ahh the peace of mind that comes with a Sunday.

That is my weekend in a nutshell, in case I don't get back right away. Pictures will be in order, from all events.

Goal #1 - Before summer, I want a Canon Rebel.

Done!

All my love and blessings.

The run around and Mexican food

Today was a day just like any other. I woke up to a blasting alarm and snoozed it...probably four times. I meticulously planned out everything about then next forty minutes before I needed to be at work, to spare me a few more minutes of bed time. What I was wearing, how long I would shower, what I needed to do. The excuses you make to avoid the alarm telling you "go".

Work was abnormally slow and peaceful. Less children, less noise. Odd! Octopi were constructed out of finger-prints and cheerios as suction cups on the tentacles. Googly eyes and all. Ah the joys of a five year old's art.
"Why do we do art projects at school, Brianna?" Good question, buddy. Alphabet and number flashcards, recess, tracing, tracing tracing, songs and circle time...the perfect summary of our calm morning with only three students.

As the day progressed and stinky diapers got stinkier, boys that I was supposed to be taking home from daycare after school, had gone a miss. They had simply not gotten off at the right bus stop. The race began. To their bus stop I went, leaving baby brother at the daycare. No boys. I whipped around baby bug and crusied down their drive way to see lights on. I couldn't help but smile when I called the boys from the front door, "Boooys?" .... long drawn out pause, with the TV int he background. "Brianna?"
"Where were you supposed to go after school today?"
"ROMAN!!! I told you! I TOLD you we were supposed to go to Deana's!"
"No you didn't Julian."
"YES!"

Squabbles of siblings. Piled them into the car at last to go retrieve the last of the Havens boys from Daycare. Lone solider greeted me with a grin and, more poop! 18 months of heavenly joy he is!

Did I mention I spent $18 on greeting cards today? For really no reason other than I could NOT choose just one, and they were all funny and cute. I have them all aligned on my desk with envelopes and no owners. I have no idea where they will go on their postal journey, but someone will receive one or two and hopefully have a great image of me sitting down in Hallmark in the "Random Misc. I Don't Have A Real Reason For Buying A Card" aisle.

Back to my three-musketeers. The boys and I ventured to Target, and then to Moctezuma's, a local Mexican restaurant. Now, word to the wise with three boys out to eat. Manage the tortilla chips. Although they are free, you would think the waiter put all-you-can-eat banana splits in front of us. Secondly, giving the baby full reign on the rice, beans, and a spoon? Maybe not your finest choice. Now, he really wanted to prove to his onlookers that he could tackle spooning this ginormous spoon of rice into his mouth...or onto his lap. Whatever works, you know. But trying to feed the baby after he's been feeding himself, definitely not an option. Instead, he may pick up a fork, and bang his plate with his fork and his spoon, as if it is a drum if you will. Keep that visual please. I will say, absolutely most precious thing. We couldn't help but laugh, oh but then that is encouragement! So he keeps banging his bean rice soupy pile and rice maybe starts flying toward his brother. Babysitter Brianna had some cleaning to do. And a big tip to leave. He just wanted to be a big-boy rockstar, that's all. He won the hearts no problem, so he was a success of all smiles. Presley Aron, ladies and gentlemen. Amee... your sons are champions, let me say.
What made the whole thing worth is was immediately upon sitting down Ro said to me "Brianna, thank you for buying us dinner." Gold. Whatever happened the rest of the meal would be great after that.

The only thing that could end this day in a better way would be a blow-out diaper from Pres himself. Success. Achieved by 7 pm!

Goodnight, readers.
Tomorrow is a new day of laughs. <3

Starting new

For those of you who have stumbled across this blog, welcome! I am pleased to invite you a little closer (maybe closer than some of you want to get) into my life. I am beginning many new endeavors and am pleased to get the chance to share with you, my reader, the joys and triumphs in my life. Like every other normal person, life gets complicated. I said it, complicated. It's a thick word to swallow, and even sometimes, has a rather loaded meaning. Overall, I'm pretty simple. I live a good life with a great job, a loving family, and the best friends anyone could hope for. I look up to many, and love with my whole heart. I follow the Lord and will be a graduate of college in less than a year and a half.

So what?

I have been blessed with more, and with more opportunities, then some get in a life time. Before my twentieth birthday.

In December, I made a huge choice. I made the choice to move home. Things got hard where I was living in California. I felt stuck, sick, and uncomfortable.

I leaped.
I took all of my opportunities in my hand, and ran.
I ran to where I was happy, comfortable, and unconditionally loved.

Ran sounds bad. Ran has a negative connotation. I for once in my life, made a move for me. Doing what I needed to do.

My life changed in November though. Things started to turn around, and the Bri that got lost in the rubble and baggage of my fall started to come out. I was renewed, and I had become a different, but better person.

I started singing in the shower. In the car. I started dancing around the kitchen. The light that I needed came to me with God in a way I have never known.

So what?

So now, I am home. I am in my beautiful home. With my beautiful family. I think about Chico every day. I could write a whole separate post about Chico and the friends that I made, and the friends I grew closer with, in my last two months there. I could write about my church, my home church. I have a hard time wanting to be two places at once, I always have. But I have such a beautiful life, in both places. That's just it. Who is lucky enough to say that?

While all of this seems like random blabble, this is me introducing my life to you as it is now. I am in the absolutely gorgeous Pacific Northwest, waiting for my next move. I'm growing in faith; growing into the person I want to be. I am going to write about my life so that I can understand it, too. Or try. It's different everyday, and I have new experiences, everyday.

This is for all the awesome stories from both homes. From here, from there, and from all the places in between.
If you are a friend from Chico, hopefully this will give you a better look at what I'm doing here in Washington. And if you're a friend from Washington, maybe this will give you a better look at where I've been lately.

My heart bursts for each one of you that have been a part of my life. You have to know that!

Ahh. What fun it is to ramble.
Time for bed, and a fresh new day. Goodnight to you!
-Bri