Laugh Often, Love Always

Movin' On!

2008-01-04T14:20:00.000-05:00

I just moved blogs...check out my new one at:

www.monicahunt.wordpress.com

- I definitely recommend wordpress...it does some cool stuff ...Plus Matt hasn't been feelin' my all pink profile for some time ;) ...I guess I haven't quite been either! Anyway- check it out!

Follow Your Passion

2008-01-03T23:00:00.000-05:00

I just started reading The Barbarian Way today and I am already loving it. It is written by Erwin McManus...Here's a little excerpt from some of what I read today:

"Although anyone who understands the heart of God knows that the Crusades were a tragic lesson in missing the point, the power of this story awakens within me a primal longing that I am convinced waits to be unleashed within everyone who is a follower of Jesus Christ. To belong to God is to belong to his heart. If we have responded to the call of Jesus to leave everything and follow Him, then there is a voice within us crying out, "Fight for the heart of your King!"
Yet Christianity over the past two thousand years has moved from a tribe of renegades to a religion of conformists. Those who choose to follow Jesus become participants in an insurrection. To claim we believe is simply not enough. The call of Jesus is one that demands action. Jesus began His public ministry with a simple invitation: "Come, follow Me." His closing instructions to His disciples can be summarized in one word, "Go!" A quick survey of the modern church would lead you to believe His invitation was, "Come, and listen," and His closing mandate would be summarized in one word "No!"

I just want to say I am glad to be a part of a church that doesn't just tell people, "no." C3 welcomes everyone...no matter what you look like, what problems you have, and what your past is like. So far, the book has encouraged me to follow my passion for Christ and let go of tradition and ritual. This is something God has been teaching me through C3 over the past couple of years. I am so grateful to be able to let go of what gets in the way of reaching people for Christ. Lost people don't care about a churches tradition...they come wanting help...they come searching for something and I can tell you for sure that it isn't tradition. I have never really been one that clings to change but after attending church for a little while I did start to believe things had to be done a certain way. Of course, now my view on that is totally different, but it was something that God had to teach me...It was an adjustment, as I'm sure it was for many.

I pray I continue to learn, let God teach me, and never stop following my passion for Christ. I pray I continue to always strive to love God and love others with all that I have...

Happy New Year!

2008-01-02T00:33:00.001-05:00

* I hope everyone has had a great 2007! I am excited and looking forward to all that 2008 has in store for it. I know that it will be great and I can't wait to see what God does.

* Finding time to blog lately has been tough but I think a break from technology can be a good thing...It can be hard to stay away- but it's good :) I'm sure I'll be able to work in more blogs as they holiday season winds down...

* We're excited because our 2nd niece will be born soon...any day now possibly! We love being an Uncle and Aunt!

* My mom's 50th birthday is today. I am thankful for her...she definitely doesn't look or act 50! She's got the heart of a 20 year old!

* We will be finishing up school this semester (graduating in May) and I can't wait. I know I said in previous blogs that I would be done in December, but I made a decision to drag it out one more semester. It was too much for me to take a full load of classes while working part time. So I decided to split it up between last semester and this one so I will be done in May!!

* There are a lot of things I want to do this year...I don't want to call them resolutions because anytime I say that I never stay with them past January! Finishing school is a huge one though!

* I can't wait to see what God does in 2008 through C3. I know that it will be a great year and what a great way to start it off with our first meeting in the theaters this Sunday. Our kick-off on January 20th is going to rock!!!

Anyway- I am excited and optimistic about 2008 and all that it will hold!

2008, Here We Come!

2007-12-30T16:53:00.000-05:00

The week is over...and we are finally home. It has been such a great relaxing week. I loved it. We spent time with family, went to the zoo, and spent lots of time together :) I love spending so much time with Matt...we had a great time on our little vacation. We went to Amelia Island and stayed at the beach. You can check out pictures from our trip here. Everything was amazing...the view from our room rocked.

I just can't believe that we are only a week away from our first Sunday at the theater. It's gonna be awesome and I can't wait! I also can't wait to see what God has in store for 2008...I know that it will be a much better year...I am glad to put 2007 behind me. I will, however, take away from it so many lessons that God taught me. He taught me (and continues to teach me) the act of truly forgiving someone. He showed me who my real friends were and amazed me with their loyalty. He taught me how to trust...

I will not forget the lessons that He taught me and I am glad to be moving forward. I can't wait for this Sunday! It will be scary but so exciting at the same time...I'm sure it won't be perfect and we will have to work out kinks...but I know it's gonna rock...and each Sunday will get better and better! God is amazing and I can't wait to see what He does!!

Love is the Movement

2007-12-27T00:05:00.001-05:00

I can't believe how fast Christmas went by...we had a great time with our families though! It's great to be able to spend some quality time with them. Matt and I are headed out for a little two day vacation tomorrow and I can't wait. =)

I just read Pastor Byron's blog and it hit something in me...I, just the other day was listening to someone rant about how "people" are taking Christ out of Christmas. They kept saying that people don't care about offending Christians. I couldn't agree more with what Pastor said....how can you expect lost people to act like they know Christ? How can you expect lost people to celebrate Christmas the same way people who know Christ do? ...maybe if we showed them what we truly celebrate they would see. Maybe if we loved them instead of ranted about them...maybe if we cared...and remembered that they need Him.

It amazes me how much I have changed over the past couple of years...I probably would have joined in the conversation about how lost people act, back then. Not anymore...I am so glad I see...I see that you can't expect people to come to know Christ when the one time they actually come to church you condemn them or judge them. I see what loving others is truly about. I see how you won't get anywhere with people if you don't love them. People need to be loved and most are so lacking in so many areas of life that the church is where they should always be able to find it. I'm proud to be a part of a church where people will find that love...C3 rocks and Love Wins :)

I love Christmastime!

2007-12-24T17:42:00.000-05:00

Matt and I are on our way to Jacksonville right now…I am so ready to be out of town for a while. I love just getting away sometimes. Even if it’s not far…it’s also nice to be able to spend time with family. We don’t see them too often so we’re excited. ☺ We’re also taking a small side trip for a couple days…just the two of us. I love that. I love spending time with Matt, especially on vacation!

Yesterday was amazing. The atmosphere was indescribable. It was our last time in those buildings…I thought it might be bittersweet…I was wrong. All could think about as we were moving stuff out of there was how exciting the theater is going to be. I was thinking about how much Eastland is going to get out of the buildings and how they just suit them so well. I can’t wait for January 6th. It’s going to be amazing…exciting…all of the above! I know God is going to use that in awesome ways and I can’t wait to see what He does.

Anyway- it’s Christmas Eve today…the sermon yesterday helped to remind me that I need to focus on Christ and others during this time. I am so thankful that He was born…and I am so thankful for all He has done. For His unconditional love. I am so thankful for the people He has placed in my life. I don’t know what I would do without them. I am blessed to have the most wonderful husband, an awesome family, and friends that ROCK! ☺ …. And an adorably cute puppy…how could I forget her? ☺

I hope you all have a Merry Christmas and try to breathe through all the craziness that this time of year can bring…I know I need to stop, breathe and remember what it’s really all about.

Love & Merry Christmas to you ☺

Check It Out...

2007-12-20T18:15:00.000-05:00

Angie has created a women of C3 blog! It rocks and I think you should check it out...you can do that right here.

The C3 women are amazing and I am grateful to know them.

Embracing Change

2007-12-19T00:00:00.000-05:00

I've always been one to embrace change...I would even go as far as to say I usually crave change. I love the changes that C3 makes, I love the change that I get from school, and obviously I love changing houses because we move so much!! :) But why is it that some parts of life start changing right in front of you and it's incredibly hard to accept. There are those parts of life that start to change and it's inevitable, but I try so hard to grab a hold of them and and not let them move. Of course, there's nothing I can do about it. Life is always changing...people are always changing...there are some that you can change with- adapt to- and then some that you just grow apart from. Some that you weren't meant to adapt to. God has a plan and purpose for it all, though. That is what helps me, personally, accept the change. I know that even though it's difficult to accept, it will be fine in the end.

So I will continue to embrace change! I mean you can't possibly live in this world without it. That doesn't mean you change the core of who you are...but if you aren't changing then how could you possibly be growing? ...just a thought.

I truly do love change...most of the time, anyway. I love a change of scenery especially. Orlando is awesome, but it's always good to get away for a bit. I, of course, love all the changes C3 has made and will continue to make. As Angie says, "...Celebrating Constant Change!" :) I love it! I really don't love changing houses as much as I have...but then maybe subconsciously I do...hmmm, it's too late to start thinking about that! Anyway...I love the changing seasons, too...even though living in FL doesn't really do that justice. I asked Matt if we could move to Colorado for the winter but he said no. I think it's late so now I'm just rambling :) ...but one more thing- I love that our God calls us to change and to continuously be evaluating who we are and how we're living. He doesn't want us to sit in comfort but rather be uncomfortable...definitely not always easy for me, but I will embrace it.

C3ers = Awesome!

2007-12-18T00:24:00.000-05:00

Christmas is approaching so quickly and each day I think I'm getting more done...but I'm wrong! :) I really did think I was almost done shopping and then I realized I haven't bought for Matt yet! That always takes me a while so I need to get started.

Anyway...I have been thinking tonight about C3 and the future...I am so excited. I can't wait to see how God uses our move to impact lives. It's going to be amazing...and I just love being a part of a real church and a real group of people who are authentic. People who walk into church for the first time can tell if you're real or if you're just faking it. I mean think about it, when you walk into an unusual place with lots of people...you know who's real and not...you know if people are just being nice to you because it's a job or if they genuinely care. That's what is so awesome about C3. It's a place full of people who genuinely care about others and who know how far a smile goes. It's a place full of people who have stepped up to serve because they know it's needed.

We had our C3 kids training meeting this past Sunday afternoon, and we had so many new people who want to volunteer. It was awesome! It's so great to see people really wanting to make a difference in kids lives. And it's even cooler to see their excitement about moving into the theater. They are pumped and have such positive attitudes about it. We all know there will be hangups and even frustrations, but I know that our volunteers are still going to be so positive...they just get it! It rocks :) ...and so do they!

God is awesome and I can't wait to see what He continues to do through C3!

Late Night Randomness...

2007-12-15T00:03:00.000-05:00

It is going to be a busy weekend...We must finish our Christmas shopping this weekend. I can't stand not having it done by now. I usually do...but our families are getting harder to shop for!

We had a little birthday thing for Matt and Adam tonight. It was fun...we all watched Madea Goes to Jail. That would be like the 3rd time in the past week I have watched at least parts of it. She cracks me up...and she's very wise. :)

Last night we had our Community Group meet with Pastor Byron. He discussed details about the move and just talked to us about various things. It was a great night...it was so great to have so many people together who get it. It was great to get to know what we as C3ers can be praying for...more specifically praying for that is. It just made me even more thankful for C3 and the staff. And then of course it made me more excited than ever for the theater. I know there will be hangups and things will have to be adjusted, but it is going to be amazing. I can just imagine how awesome Powerhouse is going to be...not to mention how awesome the worship & main services are going to be! It's all gonna be awesome and I can't wait to get there. It's crazy (and exciting) to know that we only have two more services left in the building.

Anyway- it's late...time to get to bed :)

Wisdom From Madea

2007-12-14T08:00:00.000-05:00

I watched Madea Goes to Jail last night...I've seen it before but it never gets old :) I know it's just a movie, but Madea gives some great advice. I love the first part of the clip I posted..."Let folks go!" Some people aren't going to be in your life forever...and when they walk out...let 'em go. She proceeds to compare people to trees...I love that part. She then says how she never just throws people out of her life for no reason...but if you tell someone that something their doing is hurting you and they don't care to fix it...let 'em go. It all rings so true...but of course one of my very favorite parts (who am I kidding they all are :) ): "If it walk like a duck and quack like a duck, then guess what? ...Aflac!" Even though that wasn't on the clip I still love it.

Anyway- enjoy :)

I love blogging!

2007-12-12T23:29:00.000-05:00

So this is my 100th post and...I LOVE blogging! :) This has been such a great outlet for me and I am so glad I started writing...well, typing. I am thankful for blogging because it is such an encouraging tool (when used correctly) and I love reading blogs that make you feel refreshed afterwards...or make you laugh, smile, etc... Some of them even challenge you to think outside of yourself. Check out the 'blogs I'm reading' section of my blog for some amazing and encouraging blogs.

Anyway- I am starting to really freak out because I didn't realize there were only like 13 days left until Christmas! Whoa...where did the time go! I should probably finish up my shopping soon. Well instead of getting stuff done I love reading blogs :) I think everyone should read Angie's post from today...it cracked me up for quite some time! You can read it here.

Well that's it for now...everyone think thoughts of cold weather- maybe it'll happen :)

Random Thoughts

2007-12-11T19:39:00.001-05:00

* Today was a busy day...I went to the church to help with some stuff and I cannot believe how fast the time has gone. It feels like yesterday that they sold the property and now they are packing everything up! I am so excited to get to the theater. It's gonna be awesome!

* I am wondering why it is so hot in December!! I know we live in Florida but seriously. Oh how I wish it would be in the 20's and snow! ...but more realistically I just wish it would go down to the 60's.

* I want to go on vacation to a snowy place...Colorado would be ideal. :)

* So almost all of the shows I watch on TV have been put on hold because of the writers strike now...at least we still have reality TV.

* Speaking of reality TV: I just watched The Hills for the 1st time the other night and I'm hooked already!

* I am not even close to being done with my Christmas shopping and it is stressing me out! I am usually done like a week after Thanksgiving...I don't know what's wrong with me this year.

* I love being around fun and encouraging people...there's nothing like spending time with positive people who uplift you!

* Ok- I really need to go clean and do laundry...I have lots to do but I like to put it off as long as I can...and now the laundry is overflowing- I better go :)

Amazing Sunday!

2007-12-09T22:40:00.000-05:00

Today was another great C3 Sunday. I love how no matter what the sermon is about I get so much out of it...every Sunday! I absolutely love the atmosphere at C3- It's something that is brought about by people...not a building. Speaking of buildings, I can't wait to move to the theater. The time has gone by so fast! We only have two more Sundays in our buildings now...so exciting! Anyway- this morning Pastor spoke about what defines us and what we were born to do. It reminded me how important it is to not let your past mistakes define you. God forgives that and moves past it and so should we. God doesn't want us to limit ourselves by living in the past...we can't live the life that He has created for us if we continue to live in the past.

Crave was amazing tonight. Travis did a great job discussing how we need to make sure we are dependent on God in our daily lives and not just when bad things happen and we need Him. I think it's something that we can all relate to, not just students. So many times in my own life I try to solve my problems on my own without going to God. It's amazing the difference going to God with your problems instead of trying to do it all yourself makes.

My high school girls small group is made up of some awesome girls. They blew me away tonight. We were talking about how people have impacted their lives and a couple of the girls shared how others girls in the group have impacted their lives. I was moved to see how the group has grown together so much over the past months. To be honest...I had to hold back tears because knowing the way the group used to be and the way it is now...That is only God. Only He could do something so amazing and grow a group they way He has. He brought us some great girls that truly get it. They do such a great job of investing in new girls that come to the group. If they didn't the new girls wouldn't stay...but they do...and they open up and share because they feel safe. To feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings with a group of high school girls...that takes God. I am so grateful to be able to be a part of them,and I may be the small group leader- but they teach me so much!

Sunday's at C3 never get old...God is moving in miraculous ways in and through C3. It rocks and I already can't wait for next week.

Happy Birthday Matt!

2007-12-07T08:00:00.000-05:00

Today is my hubby's birthday! He is 25...I know gettin' old!

I am so thankful for him...I can't even explain it all with words but God has truly blessed me with the greatest husband and best friend I could ask for. He is always selfless and unconditional. I don't know how he puts up with me all the time...I can be such high maintenance! He is such a great example of Christ's love and is always striving to live for Him. He encourages me and lifts me up and he never fails to make me laugh! The past 5 years that we have been together have been the absolute greatest! He always knows just what to say to make me smile :) He is just the greatest! I love him and thank God for him everyday. I am so happy he was born.

Some random things I love about him:

* He doesn't mind that I dislike cooking!
* He always takes care of me when I'm sick...who am I kidding...he takes care of me when I'm not sick!
* He spoils me :)
* He is GREAT with kids- he's going to be a fantastic dad one day (not too soon though!)
* He watches all the crazy TV shows I like with me.
*His passion for all of the things and people he loves the most... (including FSU football ;) )
* He is just the bestest husband ever! I love him with all my heart! :)

Crazy Madea

2007-12-06T19:11:00.000-05:00

Madea is crazy and she always makes me laugh so I figured I would share this!

Laugh Away and have a happy Thursday!!

Lyrics that Inspire

2007-12-05T23:15:00.000-05:00

Savior I come
Quiet my soul remember
Redemption's hill
Where Your blood was spilled
For my ransom
Everything I once held dear
I count it all as lost

Lead me to the cross
Where Your love poured out
Bring me to my knees
Lord I lay me down
Rid me of myself
I belong to You
Lead me, lead me to the cross

You were as I
Tempted and trialed
Human
The word became flesh
Bore my sin and death
Now you're risen

I love this song...I think the lyrics say it all!

Office Tuesday

2007-12-04T19:25:00.001-05:00

I am missing The Office quite a bit so I figured I would post one of my favorite scenes! ...I love Jim and Pam. I'm hoping the writers thing will end soon! :)

Anyway-

Happy Watching...

I'm Lovin' It

2007-12-03T18:20:00.001-05:00

I heard yesterday's service was amazing! I listened it to a little bit of it on the TV outside of the worship center and I loved what I heard- as usual. Pastor was talking about fear and how we let our fear control us instead of our faith. I just heard that part and I was already feeling convicted! I do just that sometimes...I let my fear control and forget about my faith and the fact that God is always there for us and He never fails! How awesome is it to have a God like that...I can't wait to see how He uses our move into the theater to reach people. It is going to be amazing to be so close to so many people and in such a familiar location.

Powerhouse was just as awesome as always, too! We are packing the kidzone out each week and it rocks! It is so amazing and encouraging to see our kids inviting their friends. We actually had a family come in that hadn't been to C3 for a couple years...obviously it has changed quite a bit...and by the time PH was over the kids were saying to their mom: "We should come back here all the time!" I love it. I love these kids. I love the volunteers. I love C3.

I also love my husband :) This Friday is his birthday. He's gettin' old! ...the big 25. I am so thankful for him!

Weekend Thoughts

2007-12-01T22:02:00.000-05:00

Today has been a long day! Usually Saturdays aren't that way...but I guess it was just going along with our entire week! We went to the UCF game today with Kayleigh, Barry, and Josh- it was the first one we have been to since the new stadium was built- it was a blast! We stood the entire game, mostly because everyone else did and of course I am so short that if the people in front of me were standing, I had to be, too. It was still fun though...not for my feet but that's okay :) I was glad UCF won...they are now on their way to the Liberty Bowl. That's big for them! I'm still a FSU and LSU fan but it's always good to see UCF do well.

We traveled to Tampa on Thursday for the funeral for Matt's grandfather. We had the visitation on Thursday and then the funeral on Friday. It went as well as something like that could go...I was happy to see his grandmother doing well and she was the one reminding us that he is at peace now. Matt spoke at the funeral...I was so proud. He did great and really helped everyone remember the person his grandfather was. We are so thankful for all of the people in our lives who were there for us...we're thankful for all the prayers. To all of you who prayed and were just there for us in any way- you'll never know how much it meant!

It's been a crazy week...It's amazing how you can see God work in so many ways. Matt's grandmother is a testament to how He works and comforts. She is an inspiring and strong person...Through so many difficult moments I can see God right there...It's amazing and sometimes it's so great I can't even describe it with words!

On another encouraging note...Matt and I were at the store this past week and ran into a fellow C3er...He was talking to us about how excited he was to spend the money on a need for someone and then proceeded to tell us how awesome he thinks it is that we're moving to the theater. He was saying how exciting he thinks it is to think of how many we'll be able to reach being in the new location. It was so wonderful to hear this...it was refreshing! The people at C3 are amazing and it feels great to be a part of a community that is so incredibly positive and excited! The energy is contagious! Well, I just wanted to share- time for bed soon and then tomorrow is another Sunday at C3- I know it will be amazing...I can't wait!

Consider It...

2007-11-28T13:12:00.000-05:00

I was reading James today and wanted to share this:

2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 5If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. 6But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. 7That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; 8he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.
James 1:2-8

It seems to be so hard to 'consider it pure joy' at first when you are going through difficult things. I realized though when you really sit down to think about it...it is a privilege that we get to go through tough stuff. That stuff makes us so much stronger in the end...it prepares us for what God has in mind for our lives and for anything that might come our way. I have learned that the stuff we go through brings us so much closer to God...in a way that can only happen through challenges and problems. Those times also reveal so much about those close to you. It shows who's really going to be there for you and who was befriending you because it was convenient for them. It's funny how people pop in and out of our lives based on convenience rather than being unconditional. It's so great though, to see those who are unconditional...to be able to know who the people are that you can truly count on.

I am grateful for those in my life that I can truly count on! The family and friend that Matt and I have that we know are there for us, no matter what...They rock :)

Prayer

2007-11-27T15:51:00.000-05:00

So last night was a rough one...We found out that Matt's grandfather passed away. He was very sick and we were expecting it soon- not that soon. We had planned to go to Tampa and visit him today or tomorrow. He was a great person who lived a great life. We are grateful for him being around as long as he was. We are the most grateful for the fact that He knew Christ. What more could you ask for? He was a sweet and loving follower of Christ...I only knew him for a short 5 years but in that time I got to know his kind heart.

If you could pray for Matt and his family...more than just Matt but our hearts go out to his grandmother. They were married for so long and they were so happy...I couldn't even imagine. We are also praying for his mom...It was his mom's dad and they were very close. We know he's in a better place and in no pain anymore...but we just pray for comfort and strength for those who loved him.

Thanks to all our friends who are praying...we love you guys!

INSPI (RED)

2007-11-26T18:07:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was an amazing Sunday! Pastor Byron introduced the C3 Christmas project. They gave away over $10,000 to the people at C3 to give out to help a need of someone's...wherever or whomever you feel lead to give it to. You just can't use it yourself or give it back to the church. I think this is going to be awesome and Matt and I are looking forward to how we are going to spend our money! We have thrown around options...I wish we could do them all! I can't decide. I am excited though...it will be great to hear all the stories, too!! I know God is going to use us all in amazing ways through this...what a great opportunity to show love to those around us. Being that is exactly what He wants us to do...I know He will bless in amazing ways.

It is so great to be a part of something so life-changing. You may not change someone's whole life with your gift, but you could show them the only love they have seen in a while, and you never know what kind of life change that could turn into. Maybe they will pass the favor on to someone else...how amazing would that be if you inspired someone else to be kind to a stranger. It's just like that Liberty Mutual commercial that Barry Oser blogged about a while ago. The commercial more shows how our kindness to others is seen by so many people...and just others seeing it can be inspiring to them. All that to say...I can't wait to see what God is going to do through this! C3 Rocks:)

Okay so you might be wondering why I titled my blog the way I did...that would be in honor of one of my favorite shirts and a great cause. GAP sells these shirts that have various words on them, in order to raise aids awareness. Half of the money from the product RED clothes goes to helping people with aids in Africa. Check out stuff about it here.

I couldn't agree with Angie more...Love does WIN!

Football Woes and Other Randomness...

2007-11-24T22:24:00.001-05:00

Okay so this was not the best football Saturday! LSU lost yesterday...I like LSU for those of you who didn't know :) and then FSU lost today. What makes it even worse is that they lost to the Gators!

Of course...my Colt's won on Thursday so that rocks! :) That doesn't quite make Matt happy though. I think he's ready for a new season for the Seminoles! I think most 'Noles fans are...let's put this year behind...

We got up at 4am to go shopping yesterday. I love shopping on "Black Friday." We got some great deals on Christmas stuff...mostly decorations! I love decorating for Christmas... :) We put our tree and new decorations up yesterday, too. Tomorrow we're moving on to the lights outside! That's Matt's least favorite part of the Christmas decorating :)

We have so much leftover from Thanksgiving...it's awesome! That just means not too much cooking for me for a little bit. Plus, it is so yummy still...who needs to cook! We had so much fun having all our family over for the holiday.

I feel like I'm getting sick...maybe it's stress...maybe it's my sinuses. They have a tendency to flare up...a lot! Whatever it is, I hope it goes away.

This weekend has been amazing! I love all the time I have gotten to spend with Matt :) He is the greatest!

I'm excited for tomorrow...Sundays at C3 are just that way. They are something to look forward to. They are refreshing!

See you there :)

Happy Thanksgiving :)

2007-11-22T08:00:00.000-05:00

It's going to be a very busy day...but I wanted to post some more of what I am thankful for:

* My Savior Jesus Christ...He saved me and gave me life.
* My amazingly wonderful husband, Matthew. I can't thank God enough for him being the one I get to spend the rest of my life with. He is the greatest husband I could ask for and my very best friend.
* My family...it is great to be able to be with them all today!
* My puppy Princess...yep I am so thankful for her. She is so cute and I love her very much!
* My sister...I know I already said family but my sister rocks! She might only be 11 but she is such an awesome little sister...I love her!
* The great friends that Matt and I have in our lives. God has truly blessed us with awesome people that we can do life with.
* C3...C3 is such an amazing community of faith. Matt and I are so glad we are a part of something so great and so...barbaric (what better word is there to describe it?!) We can't wait to see what the future holds!
* For the staff at C3 who all work so hard to pursue Christ's vision for C3.
* For all the people who make our country great...Soldiers who fight for us, teachers, doctors...all who work for something greater than themselves.
* For food :) Shouldn't we be so thankful for having food to eat...so many don't.
* For technology...not facebook or myspace...but technology has made many things possible in so many areas of life.

* These are just some of the things I am thankful for...God is awesome and I am so thankful for how much He has blessed and for His love.

Happy Thanksgiving

Week of Thanks...Pt 2

2007-11-21T10:46:00.000-05:00

I wrote yesterday a couple things that I am very thankful for...today I wanted to write about what I'm thankful for the most. Christ's love for me. I am blown away when I think about His unconditional love...The fact that He loved us all enough to die on the cross...for our sins...our shortcomings. It is amazing and there has never been a greater act of love.

I think back to the person I was before I let Christ into my life...wow...I was so different. It's so hard for me to imagine that part of my life because I am so different now. I now understand the amazing freedom of living with Christ being in my life...of course it isn't the easiest...but He never said it would be.

Not only do I think about how much I changed when I accepted Christ into my life, but also how much He has changed me throughout my walk with Him. I have grown so much, learned so much, and become someone so changed through Him. It is unbelievable to me to think how much Christ has done in my life...

I am so thankful for His unconditional love and grace.

Crazy Week of Thanks...

2007-11-20T10:13:00.001-05:00

This week has already been crazy so far! We have so much to do before our family comes in town tomorrow...I really should be cleaning instead of blogging but...oh well :)

I have been thinking a lot lately (not much else to do while you clean) and remembering how much I am thankful for. Also remembering that my problems in comparison to some people's are nothing at all. There is a family at C3 who just lost their husband and dad. My heart goes out to them and I would ask that you would be praying for them and she has two young children. I can't even imagine...I just pray that God would comfort her in this time and that she would have friends and family be there for her to support her through this most difficult time.

I am so very thankful for those people that God places in our lives to support and comfort us in difficult times. Those people He gives us to do life with. As Madea would call them...our roots. Madea is a smart woman! :) As Travis talked about on Sunday with the students...we all have a God-shaped hole in us...but we also have a human shaped one. God designed us to have community with others. He knows we need other people around us to do life with and connect with. I am grateful for those people in my life.

Of course, I am thankful for my wonderful husband! I don't know what I would do without him. He is there for me always and loves me unconditionally. Sometimes I don't know how he does it...I can be difficult at times ;) No matter how difficult I am...He still loves. His birthday is coming up very soon (Dec 7) and I can't wait to celebrate him...He is too amazing for words. I can't be thankful enough to God for placing us in each other's lives.

I will post more on my thankfulness later...these are just a couple things :)

-Love and Thanks to you

Barbaric Sunday!

2007-11-18T22:46:00.000-05:00

This Sunday was another great one! Powerhouse was awesome...the lesson was all about salvation and what Jesus did for us on the cross. The kids had the opportunity to pray to receive Christ and it appeared that many of them did! God is so awesome and He used Doug and Adam in awesome ways during the skit. They did such a great job communicating what it means to be saved by Christ and what it meant for Jesus to die for us and our sins.

Then, in small group time they made salvation bracelets...the small group leaders did an awesome job of helping the kids have a better understanding of Christ's love for them and helped them answer any questions they had. As I looked around the room and took pictures of small group time I saw so many of the kids laughing and having a great time. That is priceless...They are at church and having a blast! So many parents never thought their kids would actually like church. I am so thankful for our small group leaders...God is using them in awesome ways to connect with the kids and make church a blast!

Crave was awesome tonight, too! The worship was awesome...the students love having Josh lead worship. Travis laid out the vision for Crave for after we move. I think it is going to be awesome...our students seemed pumped about it! :) They all rock...I know God is going to continue to use them in awesome ways to grow the student ministry.

It was an amazing, barbaric, Sunday! God is doing amazing things through C3!!

Musical Saturday

2007-11-17T22:20:00.001-05:00

I don't normally watch music videos but once I saw this one I loved it! I love this song and have posted about it before but never realized how much I would like the video.

Check it out!

Winter-Filled Friday

2007-11-16T11:43:00.000-05:00

~ So...The Office is hilarious! I love the part when Michael is giving his deposition and they ask him: "So you were working under Jan..." Then he proceeds to answer the question with a "That's what she said!" Of course, then they have to go back and forth because it confuses everyone. And you had to know that the court reporter would mess up the delivery! :)

~ Oh man that show cracks me up. I am so sad because The Office is part of the TV writers strike so they will not be showing any knew one until it gets resolved! So, hopefully that will get resolved soon...The Office is a must! :)

~ I am excited about the weather today...I absolutely love cold weather. I would go to Colorado every winter if I could. I loved being there...it was so beautiful. We had a view that overlooked the snow-capped mountains. I will have to post some pictures soon. One day we were there it was -8 degrees. Maybe that was a little too cold, but oh well, it was still breathtakingly beautiful!

~ Anyway...I am also excited about the holidays. I love Christmastime! It will be great to see all of our family next week. I am ready to put up my Christmas decorations now, but Matt says it's too early. I could leave them up all year to remind me of Christmas!

~ I need to go...I'm having lunch with a great friend today. I love spending time with friends that just get it and get you.

Enjoy your Winter-Filled Friday!

Lovin' My Mac!

2007-11-15T19:07:00.000-05:00

I love Apple products...I'm somewhat of an 'Apple Junkie' or so Matt tells me I am. I guess he's right...I have an iPhone, iPod, and MacBook Pro laptop.

Anyway! My whole point of this was to say that I love my Mac...It lets me create websites and although I haven't figured everything out, I have figured out how to create picture websites. Of course I love pictures and I love sharing them so I think this rocks!

Check out my website here.

Apple Rocks :)

Funny Wednesday!

2007-11-14T09:21:00.001-05:00

Okay...Most people know I like Peyton Manning so I figured it would be only natural for me to post this funny commercial!

Laugh Away!

Random Love

2007-11-14T00:03:00.000-05:00

* Tonight was a fun night...I actually won in the poker game we played at! I was pretty excited.

* This week has been crazy...difficult...but God is bigger than it all. I am so thankful for that.

* I'm thankful for Matt...he is amazing and is so unconditional with his love. He represents Christ in amazing ways, and I don't know how he puts up with me...I can be high maintenance.

* I am also thankful for C3...difficult week or not...C3 is amazing and I couldn't imagine a better church if I tried! By the way...life doesn't end with difficult...we move on from that and Matt and I couldn't ever imagine leaving C3, our friends (who mean the world to us), and a community that is impacting and reaching out to the community around them!

* About difficult stuff...I just have to say again that our God is so much bigger than all of that. He grows us in so many ways through those times and, I believe, that after we go through tough stuff...We are so grateful for it. We can be grateful for how we grew and what we learned that will help guide us through life.

* Well...enough about that...Matt and I just needed to get out that we love C3 and we support and love the staff :)

* Did I mention yet that I won at poker tonight?! I should be way more excited than I am...well I am actually pretty excited!

* I love our puppy...she is too cute! She is always grabbing my clothes and gathering them in an area together...She loves me. Well, she does the same with Matt's socks, I'm not sure what that means but I'm sure she loves me more. :-)

* Okay...I need to get to bed. I think I'm just rambling now and that's enough random for one day!

Love Wins :)

I love The Office!

2007-11-13T09:32:00.001-05:00

I thought this clip was so funny from last week's episode!

Laugh Away!

Random Monday...

2007-11-12T19:09:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was a great C3 Sunday! I really enjoyed the new series (and last series at our building) called Barbaric Grace. I must say...I also love the new shirts! The sermon was really encouraging...Barry gave a great summary of the it on his blog here. It was great to be reminded how barbaric Christ was in his love for us. It is so exciting to be close to moving to the theater. I think about Powerhouse and how we do that now...It will be so much more effective in the theater. How cool is it gonna be for children to tell their friends they go to church at the movies?! I am so excited about seeing what God has in store for C3...I can't even imagine how awesome worship and the main service are going to be!

Today was a crazy day...Matt and I went biking tonight. I now remember just exactly how out of shape I am! I was out of breath pretty fast and Matt was like "I don't feel tired at all." He gets in shape so quickly...I'm a little bitter :) It'll take me weeks!

God is teaching me so much lately! I know my last few posts have discussed that...I am so thankful for His patience with me and His grace. During those times when you have to fully rely on God He teaches so much and it is a constant reminder that His love is unconditional. I'm also thankful for all that God uses C3 for...I learn things all the time through C3...even through Powerhouse sometimes. It is amazing what watching and listening to kids can teach you. I love watching their kindness for one another as they help each other during small group time and I love seeing their childlike faith.

Then we had Crave at the movies last night....we went to see Fred Claus. It was surprisingly funny and it was fun to be able to hangout with the students for a while. They are so awesome and a few of them brought some of their friends. This Sunday at Crave will be a great one...I am excited for it! It was a great weekend.

Time for me to cook dinner...even though I feel like I can't feel my legs! :)

Happy Monday!

Reflections From the Week

2007-11-09T22:42:00.000-05:00

This week has been one of learning for me. God has truly done a work in my life, He has taught me so much this week, and answered prayers. He has also really shown me that I have to be patient. I am not always a patient person...Matt can attest to that. But God has been teaching me that He isn't always going to answer my prayers immediately. I'm going to have to wait...sometimes much longer than I would want to. Of course, He has also shown me that when He does answer the prayers, it will be at the most perfect time. I have always know that we have to wait for questions and prayers to be answered, but I feel like I am learning to appreciate the waiting so much more. I have realized how much I grow in that waiting time, and how much I lean on Christ while not knowing all the answers. Not only do I grow closer to Christ, but closer to those around me that He has placed in my life to help me through times when I don't know all the answers. It is such a blessing to have people to count on and talk to. It may not be talking about problems...but just someone to share life with.

God has truly blessed me with Matt. I don't know how I would get through times of uncertainty without him. He is the one always reminding me how much he loves me. He is always there for me unconditionally and listens to me...even though I may say the same thing over and over again, or not make any sense at all, he still listens. I am so thankful that I get to spend my life with him!

So all in all, this has been a great week...I have gotten to spend a lot of time with different friends, spend time with Matt, and we got new furniture this week! :) Of course, most importantly God has really taught me so much lately...He has really opened my eyes about certain parts of my life...and I couldn't be more grateful.

*Thanks to all of you who prayed for my mom. She had her surgery and she is at home resting. From what my dad says she is doing just fine. :)

Prayer...

2007-11-08T21:02:00.001-05:00

Please pray for my mom as she is having surgery tomorrow...nothing too major, but of course I can't help but be concerned.

They (my parents) don't know Christ and we do our best to show them His love. I have learned so much in the past year about the right and wrong ways to reach lost people. I have learned if you just treat them like people...regular people...instead of "sinners" (which we all are) they are more likely to respond. If you just love them, not love them like you will pray for their "sins" but love them like you would anyone else. Show them that you are just like them....you make mistakes too. Don't judge them! That is so huge to me because I remember when I didn't know Christ and I remember the feeling I had when I walked into church for the first time. I remember feeling like all the people around me were looking at me funny and that they all had to know that I wasn't a "Christian." I felt like they were judging me. Maybe they were, maybe they weren't...but I just remember how I felt. In reality, all of these things apply to how we should treat all people, Christ-Followers or not.

By the way...I, by no means, think I know it all about reaching people nor do I think I do all of these things perfect always....I just wanted to share what I, personally, have learned. It seems like these things would be a given...who wouldn't know these things. I knew them...but how did I apply them to my life? That is the difference now. I am still learning and am thankful for that. I love being able to learn new things and correct mistakes I'm making.

Anyway...I just wanted to ask for prayer and share my thoughts for the night...Thanks for the prayers.

Much Love

Barbaric Grace

2007-11-08T17:43:00.000-05:00

I cannot wait for this Sunday!!

C3 Rocks!

What a Story!

2007-11-07T17:03:00.000-05:00

I was reading through some blogs today and I read a few posts from Vince Antonucci. I usually read his blogs but a couple I read tonight really encouraged me so I thought I would share one:

"Tonight is our service in the bar (and we wouldn't mind your prayers). Yesterday I heard about something I had somehow missed.

There's a bartender/waitress at this pub where we're meeting who is very pregnant. She used to be a stripper. (Let me make it clear that I have this information second-hand. I have seen her wait on tables, but I have never seen her strip.) Apparently there's not much call for pregnant strippers, so she had to find a new job, which is why she's now at the pub.

Anyway, a couple of our Forefront ladies decided to throw her a surprise baby shower. So a few weeks ago they showed up early on Tuesday night, with all kinds of presents for her! (How awesome is that?!? No offense to any one else's churches, but we have the coolest people on the planet!) So, as you might expect, this lady is all shocked and surprised and grateful. But then she tells our girls that no one else has thrown her a baby shower! Not her stripper friends, her bar friends, no one. The only baby shower she's had is the one a few Christian women from Forefront threw her; women who had met her just a few times.

Okay, seriously, that's one of the best stories I've ever heard (typically you have to hang out with Tony Campollo to get something that good), and it happened at my church (!), and I didn't even hear about it until a couple of weeks after it happened (!!)."

What an amazing story! If people were more like this...well if "Christians" were more like this they wouldn't have the negative stereotypes associated with them now. Anyway...you really should also check out the post of his before that one. You can read it here. That is another really great story.

Blogging is so awesome because although I have never met this guy or been to his church....I get to see the amazing things God is doing there! I love hearing about churches that will do what it takes to reach the lost! No matter what that might be...even if they don't do church exactly like C3, if they're reaching lost people that is awesome. These stories make me so grateful for having a church like C3...that does do what it takes to reach the lost and uses the best methods for our area. I love getting to see how God is working in lives and how He has changed so many people's outlook on the church and the way it can be done!

Love really does win

Childlike Thoughts on Love...

2007-11-06T17:06:00.000-05:00

I got an e-mail from a friend the other day with some funny quotes from children on love. Well, some were funny but some struck me...here are a few:

"Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening the presents and listen." (age 7)

"Love is what makes you smile when you're tired." (age 4)

"Love is when you go out to eat and give someone most of your french fries without making them give you any of yours." (age 6)

"If you want to learn to love better, you should start with a friend you hate." (age 6)

"Love is when mommy gives daddy the best piece of chicken." (age 5)

I thought these were so cute...it is amazing what kids know and what kind of faith they have in love.

Just wanted to share...

A C3 Sunday

2007-11-04T23:50:00.000-05:00

It's so late and I am exhausted but I can't sleep. Sunday nights are like that for me. By the time we get back from Crave and start to wind down...I then find myself wide awake!

I heard this morning was awesome. Eric has such a great story. Pastor Byron wrote about his story on his blog here. God's grace and forgiveness is amazing! The work God can do in lives when it seems as if there is no hope never ceases to amaze me. I am so thankful we have a God who loves us so unconditionally that He will forgive us...no matter what. I hope people heard Eric's story and remembered that God does love them, no matter what the mistakes made in the past, and that there is forgiveness and grace in Christ.

I was in Powerhouse this morning which was amazing! I love being in there...our volunteers do such a great job of making it a fun and exciting environment for kids. I don't know what we would do without all of our awesome volunteers. God has truly blessed us with some great people with great hearts for kids. I will be posting some pictures soon on the Powerhouse blog.

Then we had Crave tonight. The band was so amazing! Our students were so pumped and into the music :) I teach high school girls at Crave and I love it. We had so much fun tonight just playing some games and getting to know each other. We just did some ice breakers and talked for a little bit. It is great to get to know these girls and I love seeing them get to know and trust each other. They rock :)

This Sunday was so C3...amazing morning services in Powerhouse and in the main service, Crave was awesome and we had a ton of students, and God is doing amazing things and changing lives...it doesn't get much better than that.

Well...I do have to work tomorrow so the bed is calling my name...with a little Man vs Wild on the side :) I love watching that show while in the comfort of my home...

Have a Happy Monday!

Stand

2007-11-02T23:43:00.000-04:00

I love this song...The lyrics inspire me and the music video rocks. I'm just going to let the song do the talking...I'll just leave you with my favorite lyrics in the song:

Cause when push comes to shove
You taste what you're made of
You might bend, till you break
Cause its all you can take
On your knees you look up
Decide you've had enough
You get mad you get strong
Wipe your hands shake it off
Then you Stand

An Office Thursday!

2007-11-01T23:00:00.000-04:00

It has been a long week, but what better of a way to end it than with another hilarious episode of The Office. If only Michael was a real boss somewhere...well he wouldn't be for very long. He would have been fired already and sued...probably for sexual harassment! Some of my favorite moments from tonights episode were:

* Jim with his mustache on.

* Dwight in the backseat of Michael's car...who would do that in car??!

* The finer things club and how desperate Andy was to get in.

* Michael and Dwight trying to break the copier...they just cared enough to fight for Stanley. :)

* Michael on the phone with a salesman from the other branch trying to persuade him to come to the Scranton branch...and then Michael proceeds to tell him he'll be fired soon.

Those are just a few...

I am so glad tomorrow is Friday! That means sleeping in and spending the day with Matt :) ...That makes for a great day...now I just hope the sun will come out for a bit.

Have a happy Friday!

Happy Halloween

2007-10-31T21:46:00.000-04:00

Well we passed out lots of candy and most definitely lots of C3 cards with the candy. It was actually fun...I mean fun besides Princess barking with every ring of the doorbell! :) She had a blast, too though. All the kids loved watching her bark in the window while waiting for us to answer the door. I have to say I am proud of Matt...He hasn't eaten very much candy at all! For those of you who know my husband know he has one huge sweet tooth, so for him to have not eaten much is an accomplishment.

Now I just wish I could breathe...but it has still been a great day!

Happy Candy Day to everyone :)

Random...

2007-10-30T23:57:00.000-04:00

Okay so I can't take the weather anymore. My allergies are getting so bad that I can't breathe, can't see because my eyes keep watering, and it feels like there is a weight on my head because of the sinus pressure.

...I think I'm just a little grumpy because I didn't do so well in poker tonight. I have to say, I'm not a fan of losing!

I should probably just try and get some rest...I think it's time for some Office DVD's to cheer me up and help me forget about the whole not being able to breathe thing :) I think I'll watch one of my favorites...check out a little bit of it.

Laugh Away! :)

Candy Craziness

2007-10-30T11:43:00.000-04:00

Today feels like Monday for me. I left work yesterday because I had one of the worst sinus headaches I have ever had. This weather change all the time is killing all of us with allergy problems! I'm feeling a little better today...I loved the sunshine for a little while this morning. It hasn't gotten too hot lately so that is wonderful :)

I am excited about Halloween tomorrow. I normally don't care but I am loving the little C3 children's ministry cards we'll be passing out with our candy. That is such a great idea! Of course, it has to be used properly. I hate hearing stories of Christians who leave a track instead of a tip at restaurants. I'm thinking if I don't know Christ and I just waited on these people and they left me a track instead of a tip...I would be kind of irritated! I'm sure they'll have a great view of Christ from that person who wasn't kind enough to leave any tip at all...but a little book that they will probably throw away out of anger!

It's just like when I get those tracks or track like things on my car. Okay...it is really frustrating when you get stuff like that on your car, don't notice it and start driving with it on your windshield. That is what I love so much about C3. C3 doesn't want you to pass out cards instead of candy...they know those will just end up in the garbage...what little kid wants to read a card instead of candy!

I'm hoping we get lots of kids...I have lived in an apartment for the past 4 years so I haven't had any trick or treaters...we finally live in a house so hopefully we'll get lots of them! We really wanted to dress Princess up...they had the funniest costume at target for dogs...it was a lobster costume! :) I guess I couldn't justify spending the money for her to sit at home and bark when the doorbell rings. Which she will be doing...every time.

Anyway...enjoy your Halloween!

Hope everyone has a great Tuesday!

Rainy Saturday

2007-10-27T17:37:00.001-04:00

It's so rainy today...It makes me want to just stay in and watch movies. Unfortunately, the laundry is calling my name. I absolutely love the cooler weather. I wish it would continue to get cooler and then eventually snow. As you can see I am living in a fantasy! :)

I am getting so excited for Thanksgiving. I love being around family and it will be especially nice this year since all of our family is coming to Orlando to visit us. Normally we are the ones doing the traveling.

I am also excited for tomorrow...Dirty Little Secrets seems to be really speaking to people and I'm sure it will do the same tomorrow. I love C3 and the people that I see there every Sunday who are so positive and excited about C3's future.

Anyway...In honor of Christmastime coming soon and my love for the movie Elf, I posted this video. :)

Happy Saturday!

Funny Friday!

2007-10-26T12:04:00.001-04:00

The show was great last night...My favorite thing was Andy trying to figure out the: "Break me off a piece of that fancy feast!" I loved that no one would tell him!

I love The Office!

Laugh Away!

Lyrics that Inspire

2007-10-25T10:41:00.000-04:00

I love this song and it encourages me in so many ways. It reminds me constantly that He is always there no matter what!

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death
Your perfect love is casting out fear
And even when I'm caught in the middle of the storms of this life
I won't turn back
I know you are near

And I will fear no evil
For my God is with me
And if my God is with me
Whom then shall I fear?
Whom then shall I fear?

Oh no, You never let go
Through the calm and through the storm
Oh no, You never let go
In every high and every low
Oh no, You never let go
Lord, You never let go of me

And I can see a light that is coming for the heart that holds on
A glorious light beyond all compare
And there will be an end to these troubles
But until that day comes
We'll live to know You here on the earth

Yes, I can see a light that is coming for the heart that holds on
And there will be an end to these troubles
But until that day comes
Still I will praise You, still I will praise You

It is amazing to know that He truly will never let go!

Have a happy Thursday!

Worth Fighting For...

2007-10-24T20:05:00.000-04:00

Today has been a good day...A Happy Wednesday as Angie would say! =) By the way...her last post was hilarious! You should check it out here.

I went to work and then spent some time with my wonderful best friend Kayleigh. It was great. I love hanging out with her because she is someone I can be myself around and talk to about anything... She is the kind of friend that would not only not judge me for being crazy (if ever was...but you know, I never am!)...she would be crazy with me! She is also my permanent decorator. =) It is such a blessing to have wonderful friends you can be around and feel comfortable with. Friends that you can always be honest with and that you know won't judge you...no matter what. That 'no matter what' is a big deal. I am realizing more and more how much that unconditional factor is huge. You can have so many 'conditional' friends. They are only friends with you while it's convenient for them...but once it gets slightly inconvenient they bolt faster than you can blink. Those unconditional friends are so incredibly rare. You have to hold on to those people and fight for those friendships...you can't let those go even if you go through tough times.

I am so thankful for my friends that would fight for me, too. I am thankful for their love for me and their honesty with me. I am also thankful for C3 and how they are willing to fight for people. They will fight for all those lost people who feel so disconnected with church and church people. They will fight for that one person who had that bad experience and doesn't want church in their life anymore. They will fight always. I love C3...and I love my friends. All willing to fight and most definitely worth fighting for.

Fight for Love.

Random Thinkings...

2007-10-23T19:37:00.000-04:00

Today was a good day...tiring (partly because I have not been taking my iron pills...I really need to.) but a good one. My head is filled with random thoughts...

* I am so ready for the holidays...we are doing Thanksgiving at our house this year. I'm excited about it...besides the cooking of course =) I just wish it would get colder already! I love shopping the day after Thanksgiving...I mean I could shop anytime, but it's especially fun then.

* I love the kind of friendships that no matter how long you go without talking or seeing the other person...nothing changes. You can still talk, be normal, and be as close as you were when you talked everyday.

* I am so thankful for all my real friends =) The real ones are rare...

* Matt and I went grocery shopping today...It reminded me how much I don't like grocery shopping. =) I don't know why but I just don't...

* I am so thankful for Matt...I am amazed at great he is to me even when I don't deserve it.

* My Colt's won last night. =)

* We are playing poker tonight...hopefully I will do well again.

Okay...It's time for dinner soon and then poker so I better stop the randomness now. =)

Happy Tuesday!

Commitment

2007-10-21T23:53:00.001-04:00

I recently saw this commercial and I thought the message was great. We so often just give up on things instead of realizing what the problem might be and fixing it. This could be dealing with any issue...big or small. This could relate to churches as well. Now granted, not one church is going to fit everyone...people have their preferences, but does that mean if we don't like something we immediately bolt? What if the church is reaching lost people and doing what the Bible says the church should do...I guess for some they don't care. I guess some would rather be at a church where they can be recognized for how great they are...instead of a church that solely focuses on how great God is...hmmm...oh well though.

I am thankful for C3 and all they do to reach people and how they focus on Christ and how awesome He is.

Back to the video (I got a little side tracked...That happens to me a lot!) I thought it was awesome and really made me think about how easily I sometimes want to give up on stuff. It can be such an easy solution but I have found it can make things so much worse in the long run. I have never been one to have a "giving up" attitude with relationships (my marriage) but it happens to me with friendships. I used to give up on them so easily! One argument or disagreement of any kind and my first thought would be: "Oh well, guess we weren't that good of friends." What?? That's so crazy. I'm so glad I changed that way of thinking because I could have lost so many great people in my life...so many people that I am so grateful for.

"Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love."
1 John 4:7-8

Funny Friday!

2007-10-19T15:53:00.001-04:00

This commercial is too funny!

Laugh Away!

Thursday's Thoughts

2007-10-18T23:25:00.000-04:00

Random Thursday Thoughts...

* It's been a weird day...I just have a bad habit of letting things get to me and frustrate me. It's okay though...Sometimes you just have to learn to let things go.

* I love working at C3! It has been such a busy week but I am definitely looking forward to Sunday!

* I love having dinner with great friends! I went to dinner with one of my oldest friends last night...It was awesome to catch up with her.

* I got 3rd again when we played poker on Tuesday. =)

* I am praying for all the families out there hurting, suffering, and grieving. They need all of our prayers very much at this time right now.

* I have been so encouraged by others blogs lately. I love reading this guy's blogs about churches and being relevant. I also loved Barry's blog about life, you can check that out here.

So I loved The Office tonight and I figured I would have to post some of my favorite moments!

* Michael saying to Jan: "People tell me I have really pretty eyes...I haven't heard the same about you."

* Michael on his cars: We used to have two cars and now we have one. Traded two in for one, good economical sense."

* When Jim and Pam stay at Schrute Farms.

* The discussion of the usage of the words "who" and "whom."

* Michael + the train.

* Kelly saying "Ryan used me as an object."

* Of course, I love Jim and Pam! =) They are too cute.

* Michael: "I don't talk to my girlfriend about money problems. It is rude and unsexual."

Have a happy Friday!

Relevant

2007-10-17T21:08:00.000-04:00

“Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God’s law but am under Christ’s law), so as to win those not having the law. To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel …”
1 Corinthians 9:19-23

I read this verse on another blog today and it encouraged me so much. It reminded me why we do what we do and how important it is to not expect others to come and be like you, but to go and become relevant to them and their culture. No, that doesn't mean compromising what you believe, but using relevant techniques to communicate the same message. I love that C3 does that, it's awesome!

I love C3!

He's Always There...

2007-10-16T19:16:00.000-04:00

Sometimes life gets tiring. I just want to sleep! My heart hurts for my friends around me who are hurting. Two of them have lost a parent in such a short amount of time and one family is trying to hold on to their dad/husband. Angie asks everyone to join her in prayer for them here. I hope you will join in...I am reminded when life gets hard and we just need rest that God is right there to hold us up. When I look back on days that I don't know how I got through I remember that it was Him who held me up...He gave me rest when I was tired and provided amazing people in my life to give me support. I know that God will do the same for my friends that are hurting. It can be in those times of sadness that you see God work the most and you grow so much closer to Him. I am so thankful for our God who helps us when we can't help ourselves and continues to grow us in ways we could never imagine.

I will be praying that they have comfort and I know they have some great people surrounding them with love.

"I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint."
Jeremiah 31:25

Lyrics that Inspire

2007-10-16T12:14:00.000-04:00

My Future Decided
Hillsong United

You hold the future in your hands
You know my dreams and you have a plan
And as you light my way, I'll follow you

My eyes on all of the above
My soul secure in all you've done
My minds made up
And you are the only one for me

Jesus, savior, in my life you are everything
My future decided, I will praise your name
And I know that I am, I am yours
Yeah, I know that that I am, I am yours

You hold the earth in your command
You are the rock on which I stand
And as I live each day, I'll follow you

Aren't afraid, aren't ashamed Lord we know who we are
We are your people and we won't be silent
Unified hear us cry at the top of our lungs
You our God and we will not be shaken

He truly is our rock and we will not be shaken!

Sunday Randomness...

2007-10-14T22:02:00.001-04:00

Today was a great Sunday! Powerhouse was awesome...we had so many new kids! I caught most of the service, too. It was awesome and I know God was definitely moving and working in lives. We had a ton of new people. =) I think this is a series that can help so many...and even if it doesn't directly apply to you (even though we all face temptation of some kind), you can always learn to try and keep from making those mistakes yourself. I am so thankful that God is by our side no matter what.

Crave was also awesome. It was great to have Travis back, and Jon did a great job talking to the kids about connecting. I love Crave and all our students. =)

I have been thinking a lot lately about priorities...How I need to make sure I am spending my time on the people and things that matter the most. It is vital to me to make sure the people that are the most important in my life know it, and it can be so easy sometimes to over commit to stuff. I have to be reminded to say no sometimes...even if it's stuff I want to do. I kind of want to say no to school but Matt says I can't do that. =) I, personally, think I am over committed to school...but that's just me! =)

I am pretty excited about next Monday. Matt and I are trying to get tickets to the Colt's game in Jacksonville for next Monday night! I really hope it works out...I love seeing them play. I just hope it's a better turn out then when the Colt's played in Jax last year...But I won't discuss that.

I love that show Man Vs. Wild! He is crazy and eats the craziest stuff. The show teaches me a lot...mostly that I think I would die if I got stuck in the wild! =)

Okay, I think that's enough random for one post. =)

Hope everyone has a happy Monday!

Funny Friday!

2007-10-12T11:53:00.001-04:00

Love it =)

Laugh Away!

Office Thursday!

2007-10-11T23:09:00.000-04:00

This show is too funny...here were some of my favorite parts. They made me laugh in spite of FSU's ugly game!

* Jim's face after Meredith asks him to sign her cast.

* Michael discussing his "brain grandchild."

* The exclusive night club...Chat room...with a password to get in. =) LOL

* Instant messaging between "the website" and Dwight.

* Michael saying to Angela: " OK easy booster seat, no one cares about this party anyway."

* Michael's gift for Ryan.

* Michael's purple, too tight, shirt. And then him proceeding to ask "how much weight do you think I can lose by 7pm?"

* Angela's description of silverware.

* Dwight's competition against the website.

* Michael kidnapping the kid...there's nothing else to say about that except for the fact that he didn't think it was kidnapping!

* Andy trying to scratch Angela's back...weirdo!

* Kevin referring to the pizza: "Oh it's real bad. It's like eating a hot circle of garbage!"

* I think my most favorite part was Jim and Pam's date on the roof and their recollections of when they first liked each other. =)

Those are just some of my favorite parts. I love The Office...It Rocks!

Random Thoughts

2007-10-10T23:15:00.000-04:00

Thoughts from the day...

* I am very excited to see the new series this Sunday...Dirty Little Secrets. I think it's going to be amazing!

* I love playing poker on Tuesday nights...I got 4th place! =)

* I think I am addicted to my iPhone...it does everything! I really want Matt to get one.

* Of course, everyone knows I am excited for The Office tomorrow.

* The FSU game is on at the same time as The Office...That means I have to TiVo it and then watch it later...Matt won't pick a show over his Seminoles!

* I love reading encouraging blogs. I think blogging is such an awesome tool that can be used for some great things.

* Of course, some people misuse it...oh well...

* My sister is coming to stay with us this weekend. We love having her here!

* I am so excited for C3! When I drove to work today and saw the "sold" on the sign it was very exciting! =)

* I can't wait for the awesome things God is going to continue to use us for, and the people we will be able to reach being in the theater.

* I love my hubby! He did so much laundry for me...that rocks...I hate folding clothes!

* Well, I need to try to get some sleep...Maybe I'll go watch some of The Office with Matt ;)

Hope everyone has a great Thursday!

In Their Shoes...

2007-10-09T13:12:00.000-04:00

I read this post by Vince Antonucci and it really spoke to me. What he talks about is so true and, I believe, if done could change the way lost people view church. Here is part of the post...you can read the rest here.

If you’re trying to reach people who don’t currently go to church, and you’re hoping this person might show up to your service … well, put yourself in their shoes. If you’ve gone to church all your life, this will be difficult. But try to imagine: What does this person feel like coming to church if they haven’t been in a long time? What is he thinking if he got up early on a Sunday morning to come to check you out instead of doing what he normally does? What is he looking for? What does he see when he drives up, when he walks in, when he sits down? What does he hear? What does he smell? How does all of that impact him? What does it communicate to him about who you are? About what you care about? About what you really believe about what you say you believe?

I hope I can really start to put myself in others shoes. Not even new people in church, but just in everyday life! How much better would that make all of my relationships if I just did that...Just to make sure I try to see how the other person would feel before I act. It something so simple that seems like it would be easy to do...but not always. Sometimes, for me, it can be difficult to try and see where the other person is coming from or how they feel. However, I think if a more conscious effort is made it could improve so many relationships and help unchurched people see what we're really about.

A Day to Remember

2007-10-07T22:58:00.000-04:00

It was an exceptionally great Sunday in so many ways. The service was amazing and it is so exciting to be able to move forward with C3 in all that they do to reach the lost. I cannot wait to move into the theaters...It's going to be great to see all the work God will do there! I love being part of a church that takes risks and doesn't just play it safe. I love being part of a church that knows how to move past the hurt and continue with God's vision. I love being part of a real church, and not just a 'put a fake smile on when you come to church because your life has to look perfect' church. Matt and I are so thankful for the day we just happen to stumble upon C3 church so long ago. Little did we know then...God had that planned and we couldn't be more grateful!

Our Crave bowling event was amazing, too! We had 40 students show up and 7 new ones. Man...what an amazing day! God is so faithful and He is using our students in a huge way. The students do such a great job inviting their friends. Everyone seemed to have a great time...It is awesome to see the group growing so much. I cannot remember a week that has gone by when we haven't had a new person. =) That rocks!

Well...I have loads of homework to do...It will be a long night, but that's okay. =)

I love C3

Fight

2007-10-06T13:47:00.000-04:00

I am reminded constantly why we fight for love. I am reminded when I see the new faces...when someone I know gets excited about the way C3 does church and hearing them say..." I never knew church could be like that."

I am reminded when I look at my family. They need us to fight for love. Most of them don't know Christ, and they need us to keep fighting and keep running.

I am reminded when I talk to students that are hurting beyond my belief. They need the fight. They need us to look past all the crap and not let any of that get us down, but to keep focusing on the amazing things God is doing and the great people He has brought our way.

I am reminded when I see children who are excited about church. When I hear their parents talk about the horrible experiences their children have had before, and how they weren't welcome at some other churches. I'm reminded when I hear kids saying to their parents..."Jesus loves me." I don't know how much better than that it gets!

I am reminded in my own life when I think about where I was, and where I am now.

I cannot wait until tomorrow...it's going to be amazing. I love C3!

Fight for Love

Funny Friday!

2007-10-05T11:57:00.001-04:00

This is Madea's version of the Bible! Too funny =)

Laugh Away!

Blogs that Inspire

2007-10-04T18:38:00.000-04:00

Here are some blogs I think are amazing, inspiring, and just rock =)

You can check out Pastor Byron's blog about church here.

Angie's Blog about love here.

Vince Antonucci has a blog about reaching the lost here.

And...Barry Leathers blog about expectations here.

These are just some the blogs that I love!

Blogging Rocks!

Thoughts from the Day

2007-10-03T23:21:00.001-04:00

This week has gone by in a blink! There is so much to do tomorrow and I cannot believe it's going to be Thursday.

* I was just thinking about working at C3 and what a privilege it is. Not just because of the life change I get to see happen, (which is amazing beyond words) but because of the people we are surrounded with in the office. You feel such a team atmosphere to just get it done...no matter who has to do it. I am so grateful for that! We're all willing to help one another, do things that don't necessarily fit our "job descriptions," and pull together to make Sunday the best it can be.

I absolutely love my job and I am so thankful for those around me everyday! =)

* We have so many students signed up for bowling this Sunday. =)

* Man, our students do an awesome job of inviting their friends! We continuously have so many new students at Crave and they keep coming back and bringing their friends!

* Crave is really growing and so are our students...it is so exciting to be a part of that.

* I really want to watch a Madea movie, she always makes me laugh!

* Of course, I am looking forward to The Office tomorrow...I hope they bring back, "That's what she said!" After all, it was Michael's trademark =)

* Speaking of TV, I watched Deal or No Deal tonight...some of the people on that show get greedy! I would be perfectly fine with that first offer they get!

* I am so thankful for great friends! =)

* Matt and I are really praying for the Conrad family...specifically for Sandi and her dad. Pray for them as they travel this week to see him.

Hope everyone has a terrific Thursday =)

Connecting

2007-10-02T20:41:00.000-04:00

Tonight Matt, me, and Barry O. are going to play our usual Tuesday night poker in Avalon. Some judge us for this...not our friends, but people who hardly know us...but I think the connections we have made there are so awesome. We are connecting with real people who (most) don't know Christ and God is really using us. We are connecting with the same people that C3 has a desire to reach. The last time we played poker we really felt a connection starting to build, here's why:

We went to play last week and all sat at the same table...there were probably 8 people sitting with us. I was wearing my C3 shirt and that started a whole conversation about church. I am so glad that we have shirts like that! It is amazing that a small thing like a shirt can get people talking. We had some questions about our church thrown at us...nothing we haven't heard before, but the others at the table heard and joined in, too. We had one guy at the table say, "How can you guys play poker? Isn't that against your rules?" It is amazing the assumptions people have put on "church people." Well, actually, none of us are "church people" we're all just people who love Jesus and love others, the guy just put us in that category because unfortunately that is what most Christians are like. Anyway, I looked back at the guy and said, proudly might I add, we don't go to your typical church. What an awesome thing to be able to say that our church is different! We don't expect you to act in this holy manner on Sunday and then do whatever you want during the week. We just let you be real...everyday! When our staff is real, why would they expect anything else from the members. C3 doesn't expect holy, they just want you to love Jesus and others..but if you're not sure about Jesus...they'll love you anyway!

We had continuous conversations with one particular person, who appears to already go to a church, for a while...the best part was the others who were listening in. They heard us talk about C3, church in general, and they knew what we believed after that. I expected them to act differently and talk differently around us after that...they didn't. Despite what they said, what they drank, or how they acted we chose not to judge. It can be hard not to judge, but I bet they expected us to do that to them. I wonder why they would expect that...

I am just thankful that God has given us this opportunity. I never would have thought we could build connections playing poker. I always just thought of it as fun and that we would just kind of keep to ourselves. God had different plans! =) He is making me more and more thankful for that everyday and for our church. The kind of church that loves people NO MATTER WHAT!

Well, we're off for another fun night of poker...By the way, I got 2nd place last time! (higher than Matt and Barry!) I'm going for the win tonight =) I'll keep updating on the connections we make and the people we meet!

Monday Madness!

2007-10-01T19:21:00.000-04:00

Today was a crazy Monday...so much to do! Here are my random thoughts right now...

*I am excited for this Sunday because we are going bowling with our Crave students...We have 30 students signed up! I am so excited about what God is doing at Crave every Sunday. He is really speaking to our students and they are really opening up and feeling comfortable. They are an amazing group!

* I love people who just get it! Who understand what C3 is all about and why...

* Our God really is Mighty to Save!
* My Colt's did win yesterday...Sorry, D-Lo. =) But to be honest, I'm not really that sorry! I think Darrell has it out for Peyton Manning, but I don't know why =)

* I feel like it has been raining for two weeks! Sometimes I love the rain...especially at night, but sometimes it can be annoying.

* It is starting to get cooler outside and I love it...I can't wait for Christmastime!

* I have the greatest husband!

* I am loving all my new facebook friends...I like facebook so much more than myspace.

* I also have the greatest friends!

* I am so ready to move to the theater! It is going to be amazing and we're going to be able to reach so many more people.

* Okay, I need to go cook dinner, but I am not a huge fan of cooking =)

That's enough randomness for now...maybe more later! =)

Our God...

2007-10-01T16:57:00.000-04:00

I love this song and I needed to be reminded that He can move the mountains...As long as I rely on Him I will be just fine. Our God is Mighty to Save.

Love Wins

Go 'Noles!

2007-09-29T23:49:00.001-04:00

So, what an awesome night for a FSU fan! The 'Noles won and Florida lost! Oh what a great night...followed by what is sure to be an amazing Sunday morning at C3! Now I just really need my Colt's to beat D-Lo's Broncos tomorrow. Well, we will see...Until then, I need to get to sleep.

Football Rocks!

Rainy Saturday

2007-09-29T18:58:00.000-04:00

I love rainy days like today, they are so relaxing and peaceful. Being able to sit around and do nothing is priceless...that doesn't happen very often! I am thankful for the rest we get when we can, it helps me personally to get re energized.

Anyway...

I am looking forward to tomorrow. I know God is going to work in lives and speak though Pastor Byron. I am thankful we have a Pastor who communicates God's word in an easy to understand way, without 'watering down' scripture. It really is irritating to hear people say that our Pastor 'waters' things down. I remind myself, though, that it doesn't matter what others choose to say. We know that God is using our Pastor and church to make a difference based on life change. Anytime you are doing amazing things for Christ people will find something to say. Sometimes people just have a need to talk about others and tear down. Again, it doesn't matter what they say...one thing I have learned over the past year is that you can't control others but only yourself. So they can keep talking, blogging, and smirking...but God is moving and people are being changed. That is all that matters!

C3 Rocks!

Fun Friday!

2007-09-28T17:29:00.000-04:00

Today has been a good day...much better than last night in which I was sick and nauseous. I think I got sick from my own cooking! Maybe I shouldn't cook anymore :) I went to lunch with my hubby :) We ran some errands and now we are getting ready to go out with our great friends to celebrate Barry Oser's birthday.

I am very thankful for the friends we have...God has really given us a great support system to go through life with! What a great gift...true and real friends are few and far between. Most people go through their lives without ever knowing who they can really trust, or wishing they had people they could truly count on. We are grateful to have even just a few of those people around us. Some of them we have known since high school and some just a year or so, but all are equally important to us! It is crazy how you can know someone for a short amount of time and just connect so well. Matt and I can see how God was working and how He intentionally placed people in our lives...we are so grateful for that. =)

All that to say we are so thankful for the great friends we have...and we wish you a very happy birthday, Barry!

Thursday's Fun!

2007-09-27T23:00:00.001-04:00

So I was a little worried that The Office would disappoint me...It definitely did not! :) I am very excited that Jim and Pam are together. It was also as funny as ever...Michael's dumbness (is that a word?) never gets old!

The Office Rocks!

Finally!!!

2007-09-27T17:47:00.001-04:00

Okay so tonight we all finally get to see what happens on The Office...I figured I would post this video...just because I am excited :) I just hope they don't disappoint me! Jim and Pam better get together! :)

Laugh Away!

Tuesday Night Thoughts!

2007-09-26T00:39:00.000-04:00

It's late Tuesday night and I can't sleep! Today was a good day, long but good...Here are my random thoughts :)

* I am very excited about getting 2nd place at poker tonight! Go me :) I have never gotten that far!

* I love my Mac computer! It rocks...I just created my own web page of pictures that anyone can go to...I was amazed that it is actually a real web page! The address is: gallery.mac.com/monica_hunt

* Back to the poker...Neither Matt nor Barry have ever gotten 2nd place... :) Just thought I would share that.

* I am looking forward to what is in store for the future of C3. I love our church and love that it is a place that talks about real issues!

* I am very excited about Dirty Little Secret! The series sounds like it will be awesome and hit home for many.

* I am also excited about The Office this Thursday! Oh man...I can't wait!

* I love my husband! He rocks :)

* So does our puppy...now she might be crazy, but she definitely rocks :)

* I really hope FSU wins this Saturday...

* I need to go to bed, tomorrow is going to be an even longer day than today if I don't get some sleep!

Much Love!

Choices

2007-09-25T23:49:00.000-04:00

There are some things and people I will never understand...

I'll never understand why people write certain things or comments in their blogs. It's amusing how immature people can be. Of course, I am reminded again and again when I let these things get to me, that I can only control myself. I have no control of others and their actions. I have no control of what people may or may not write in their blogs. I have no control....God does. I just have to make the choice of what to focus on. I can choose to focus on people that hurt me or people that love me, and I can choose to focus on and read blogs that are encouraging or blogs that just tear down others.

I choose to focus on encouraging people. I have always said I would not read discouraging blogs, but this weekend I came across one by chance. Of course, I read it. I shouldn't have. I knew I shouldn't when immediately afterwards I was angry. I did not come away from reading that blog feeling the way I do when I read blogs that are encouraging. I came away mad at this person and mad at myself. So today I will make the choice (again) to not read blogs that just tear people down and are extremely immature. I will also make the choice to do my best to only focus on the positive...Positive people and blogs!

I have found that there really isn't much negativity in my life anymore. God really shows how much He loves us by taking people out of our lives. We may get upset at that moment and not understand why they left or hurt us, but we realize soon after that, that God had a purpose. He knew they would only bring us down and hold us back from being the person He wants us to be. He knew what they would do to us and because He only wants the best for us...He took them away.

I thank God for how much He has protected me!

I love C3!

2007-09-23T14:29:00.000-04:00

The atmosphere at C3 this morning was unbelievable. It was so encouraging for me and reminded me why we do what we do. As I looked around while we were singing all I could see were people who love C3, people who are real, and people who just want real answers to their problems.

The message this morning was amazing and really convicted me of a few things. I was reminded how important it is to be intentional in the friendships that you make and that I need to be building relationships to help people come to know Christ and show them God's love. I need to do the same thing with my family. They don't know Christ and sometimes I think I give up hope. The few times I have tried to talk to them about Christ they are very against hearing anything. I just need to remember that God is in control, and I can always be showing them His love through my actions. I was reminded this morning not to give up on them...God is God and He can do anything! I am so thankful for that and I hope that they do see His love through me.

I know Crave tonight will be great, too. I love these students and appreciate their openness. They make new students feel so welcome. I always see regular Crave students talking with and being friendly to students visiting for the first time. They help to make Crave what it is. So many of them are constantly bringing friends and investing in people. They are so awesome! I can't wait to see how God is going to move tonight.

C3 Rocks!

Inspiring Lyrics

2007-09-22T01:24:00.000-04:00

A thousand times I've failed
Still Your mercy remains
And should I stumble again
I'm caught in Your grace
Everlasting
Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending
Your glory goes beyond all fame

Your will above all else
My purpose remains
The art of losing myself
In bringing You praise
Everlasting
Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending
Your glory goes beyond all fame

In my heart and my soul
Lord I give You control
Consume me from the inside out
Lord let justice and praise
Become my embrace
To love you from the inside out

I love this song, and these lyrics are inspiring to me. I hope they are to you as well...God is amazing and I am always in awe of how He works in our lives and loves us no matter what!

Have a happy Saturday! :)

Funny Friday!

2007-09-21T13:30:00.001-04:00

So in light of my excitement that The Office will be starting again next week I figured it would only be appropriate that I post an Office video for today! :)

Laugh Away!

Thoughts from the Week

2007-09-20T18:31:00.000-04:00

This week has been a crazy week! It's been a great one, though...no matter how exhausted I feel tonight! Here are my thoughts from the week:

* I need to start taking my iron pills. For those of you who know me well at all know I am anemic, which its just a fancy word for not having enough iron. I know I need to take them but they taste nasty! Matt tries to force me but I think he gave up! :)

* I love working at C3 and being able to be a part of what God is doing there! I have never worked in such an encouraging environment!

* I am learning more and more everyday to focus on the positive. People will always have negative things to say, no matter what!

*God has really been teaching me that I can only control myself and not others. And I control what I decide to focus on!

* Okay, I really need to go to the doctor. My back still hurts and I just keep avoiding going. Back pain just stinks...it's like no matter how you sit or lay, it still hurts.

* Matt and I have a Jack Russell Terrier- Princess- and she is one at that. People told us they are hyper but they calm down after a couple years...She's two and still acts the same...maybe she is just special. :) We love her no matter what, though.

* People never get to see the good side of Princess, she is hyper when people are around, but when they leave she sleeps for like 12 hours. She sleeps in until almost noon sometimes!

* I am overly excited that in one week The Office comes back on TV. Then we will finally get to see what happened with Jim and Pam! Okay, I need to get a life!

* I love having great conversations with encouraging people...people who just get it!

* I am looking forward to sleeping in tomorrow...I wish I could still sleep until noon! :)

* I am also looking forward to this Sunday and hearing part of The End series. I heard amazing things from this past Sunday and I am sure this one will be even better.

* I love the atmosphere at C3 when we worship! It is so awesome and very positive. I am so grateful for the people at C3 with amazing attitudes...it makes for such an encouraging and inspiring environment!

I hope everyone has a fabulous Friday, tomorrow!

Keep Running!

2007-09-17T21:44:00.000-04:00

My heart is heavy today for my friends who are hurting. So many of them have lost someone close to them in their lives...Not necessarily by death...but no matter how you lose someone it always hurts. I am praying so much for them and hoping that they will remember how much God and their friends love them.

I have noticed in times of pain and hurt is when you see God work the most in your life. It seems impossible to see in the moment, but once you start to walk through and out of it you can see how God was with you the whole time. You can see how He protected you and made the hurt not as bad as it could have been. You begin to see His purpose for it all as you walk through it, also. Although it seems that sometimes it isn't until you have overcome the hurt that you see His purpose for your pain.

Looking back in my own life I can see why God took certain people out of my life and why He put me in certain situations. However He may have done it and however bad it may have hurt at the time, I see the purpose now. Of course, no one in that situation wants to hear that it will all be okay. At that time, in my opinion, it is so hard to see that it actually will be okay. It seems like all you can see is what you are facing at that specific time.

We do have such an amazing and faithful God though! He always brings us through these situations and always has a purpose for people He brings in and even people He takes out of our lives. We serve an awesome God who loves us unconditionally!!

I was encouraged a while ago when I read this post by Angie. It reminded me to keep my eyes focused on the prize and to keep on running no matter what!

I'm not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don't get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I've got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I'm off and running, and I'm not turning back.
Philippians 3:12-14 (msg)

Learning...

2007-09-16T23:23:00.001-04:00

I'm learning:

* that Madea is a very smart woman. She quotes Maya Angelou when she says: when someone shows you who they are...believe them.

* that sometimes I don't want to see who people really are...I just want to believe they are the people I thought I knew...I wonder if that happens to anyone else?!

* that not everyone is going to care as much as you wish they would...and that you can't control others but only yourself.

* how much I learn at Crave! The students teach me so much and it is such a privilege to be able to hangout with them every Sunday. They are awesome!

* that some students are hurting more than we ever knew...but the way they handle themselves is amazing.

* how awesome our volunteers are! Of course, I already knew this, but I see it more and more every Sunday. They are doing so much to invest in kids lives.

* how God can use people in our lives to teach us so many things...He always has an amazing way of placing people in our lives at a specific time for us.

God is amazing and is always so faithful! I know this week will be another great one...I am looking forward to next Sunday and to hearing part of The End series.

I hope everyone has a Happy Monday tomorrow!

Funny Friday!

2007-09-14T11:22:00.001-04:00

I thought I would share this with you all today!!

Laugh Away!

Gotta Love Change!

2007-09-13T23:22:00.001-04:00

Why is change so feared? If we lived in a world where nothing changed what would that be like? Things must change, we must adapt...we cannot remain stagnant in life or the world will pass us by. In science they say that you must adapt to your surroundings to live and more than that, to thrive. Yes, I'm sure you could just 'make it by' without adapting but what kind of life would that be. Would you be living or would you just be alive? We don't live the same way they did 100 years ago...for example, we eat differently based on our knowledge of what is healthy. We communicate differently...we just plain live differently!

I believe the same thing applies to church. This is why I love being a part of a changing church. A church that is not afraid to adapt to the culture around it to reach people. How can you reach people using techniques used 100 years ago? Who is going to respond to that?

I can definitely relate to this...I did not grow up in church. I remember when C3 started to make all the changes...I asked Matt, Can they do that? Can church be like that?? But let me tell you I was asking out of amazement...not disappointment! I had no idea that church could be exciting...fun and I had no idea that kids could actually like church! Whoa...what a possibility!

Matt grew up in church...Him and his brother used to beg their parents to not make them go to church on Sunday mornings. Why should it be like that? It definitely doesn't have to be, and I think C3 shows that every Sunday! Part of the reason that C3 can grab kids attention is because they can adapt and change.

Of course this doesn't mean change what the Bible says. That is the one thing that never changes, and C3 stays true to that, also. They just communicate what the Bible says in a way that people, regular people, can relate to. You don't have to know every verse or have all kinds of knowledge that you can just have but not actually use! C3 shows us how to apply the things the Bible teaches. That is what people really need...Not just a bunch of facts, but how to actually live life!

All that to say, I love change...It rocks!

Feelin' the Love

2007-09-11T20:29:00.000-04:00

I love...

date nights
my husband
hot chocolate from Starbucks
The Office
reality TV
C3
seeing the work that God is doing in my life and those around me
our puppy =)
spending time with great friends
girls' nights
our country and all the people who fight for it!
naps...
Christmastime
skiing...or dreaming about it!
spending time with family
vacations
meeting new people
having great conversation...what can I say I am a communication major!
watching football with my husband...mostly our Colt's and Nole's!
taking pictures and then scrapbooking them =)
blogging
laughing so hard my stomach hurts!
random notes from my husband that he leaves me around the house :)
the amazing people God has placed in my life!

So Small...

2007-09-10T15:35:00.000-04:00

I heard this song today for the first time and I loved it...The lyrics were inspiring to me and I think helps to remind me how important love is...Not just the love I share between my husband but God's love for us and the love we share with those around us!

What you got if you aint got love?
The kind that you just wanna give away
It's okay to open up
Go ahead and let the light shine through
I know it's hard on a rainy day
You wanna shut the world out
And just be left alone
Don't run out on your faith

Sometimes that mountain you've been climbing
Is just a grain of sand
What you've been out there searching for forever,
Is in your hands
When you figure out love is all that matters, after all
It sure makes everything else
Seem so small

It's so easy to get lost inside
A problem that seems so big, at the time
It's like a river that's so wide
It swallows you whole
While you're sittin round thinking about what you can't change
And worryin' about all the wrong things
Time's flying by, moving so fast
You better make it count, cause you can't get it back.

Sometimes that mountain you've been climbing Is just a grain of sand
What you've been out there searchin for forever Is in your hands
Oh, When you figure out love is all that matters after all
It sure makes everything else
Seem so small

Love always wins and always overcomes!

Scatterbrained Sunday!

2007-09-10T00:03:00.000-04:00

All I have is a bunch of random thoughts from today. I guess lately I have posted a lot of 'random thoughts' posts, but I seem to be having trouble getting my mind all together. There is so much going on in all aspects of our lives lately that I always have lots of thoughts running through my mind!

This Sunday morning was great! Pastor Barry's message hit home for me in the aspect of reaching people around me. I know I am not doing all that I can do to try to reach people and fulfill what God has called us all here to do. Then Crave tonight was great! We discussed dating and even played a little bit of the dating game. I think Travis did a great job of communicating to the students about it...it was something that definitely needed to be talked about because it is a big part of these student's lives every day. We had a bunch of new girls in our small group so that was also exciting...well, they weren't new but just moved into 9th grade. I believe this is going to be a great year with the students! The high school girls are really starting to open up and feel more comfortable...I thank God for that so much! I hope they continue to feel safe and free to be who they are in that time.

I am thankful that we finally got our new car and got that whole situation over with. The stress of not knowing if our old car would start when we needed to go somewhere was not cool! I was waiting to get a call from Matt saying he was at school and the car wouldn't start...I never did and now we don't have that car anymore so praise God!

I cannot stand this cough that I have had for like three weeks. Okay...I may be exaggerating a little, but I have had it for a while. I think people are going to think I smoke if it doesn't go away soon! ;)

Right now I am feeling this, how am I gonna make it through the week, feeling. I don't have it bad at all...so I really shouldn't be saying this but I guess I just feel tired. I'm feeling like I just want to sleep for hours and then when I wake up just lay around and watch The Office. Again, I am fine...I have no room to complain! God has blessed us in so many ways. Everyone just has those weeks when you just feel tired and worn out. I think I'm just having one of those. I know, as always, God will give me the energy to do all stuff we have to do this week. I also have an amazing and encouraging husband who always knows how to put a smile on my face!

Matt and I are praying for our friends who are hurting now. We love them and are thankful that they are in our lives. We are always going to be there for them and are so grateful to know they will be there for us, too. It is such a wonderful thing to have people in your life like that. They will never know how much they mean to Matt and me!

I am pretty happy that my Colt's won (they dominated...but I won't brag) on Thursday...and Florida State won yesterday! That's good for our house! :) I have to admit, I am glad that football season is back.

I think I should try to get some sleep...and if I can't sleep I can just turn on some Office and that will solve my problem! :)

I hope everyone has a Happy Monday!

My Can't Sleep Thoughts...

2007-09-08T01:15:00.000-04:00

I am in a weird mood...I had a fun night but for some reason I don't feel quite all with it, and I feel tired- but can't sleep!

I think I have to admit that lately God has really been trying to teach me some things I don't want to learn. I know it sounds weird...I guess it's just stuff I know I need to learn and accept, but it's not always easy to learn and can be hurtful. I know in the long run it will help me. I know God would never teach me something that would hurt me...I guess I am just not fully trusting Him at the moment. I need to just wake up and accept it!

We did have a fun night though! It was a football filled one. We went with Kayleigh and Barry to the Master's game for a bit and then headed to the Colonial game to watch Bryant Vail play. Now tomorrow we have to head off to Jacksonville again...early in the morning. It doesn't suit well for me that I am still awake! Hopefully we will come back with a new car! Actually, I should say...Hopefully our Sentra starts in the morning so we can get to Jacksonville, to get the new car!

The main reason we are going to Jacksonville is to celebrate our niece's first birthday! =) Happy Birthday, Ayla! She's a cute little girl and is starting to learn how to walk! We are glad to be able to see the family for a little bit tomorrow. I only wish we didn't have to drive there and back. That is the exhausting part! Well, tomorrow is going to be a long day! I better make myself go to sleep.

I am excited for C3 on Sunday, too! We will be in the service this week and we are looking forward to it! I love being in the service...I get this overwhelming feeling when I look around and know how much God has done at C3, and how much is in store for the future! It is amazing!

Funny Friday!

2007-09-07T17:06:00.001-04:00

Madea tries to help this child with her homework =) ...I hope this helps everyone have a good laugh today!

Laugh Away!

Reflections From Today

2007-09-06T19:30:00.000-04:00

I am glad it's Thursday...that means I get to sleep in tomorrow! I have had a busy week and I have so many thoughts running through my head...

* Car shopping is a pain! More than car shopping, trying to negotiate a deal on a car is an even bigger pain!

* NFL football starts tonight...with none other than my Colts playing! I really hope they win...at least they won the superbowl last year!

* I don't know what happened on Monday night...FSU...well, I won't talk about it.

* I still love the Noles though!

* We have to go out of town again this weekend...Just one day...but it is still tiring.

* I have been watching my Office season three! It is even better than I remembered it! =)

* Now I am even more anxiously waiting for the season premiere.

* I love my husband! He is the greatest husband...I thank God for him more than anyone could ever know!

* I love having a puppy! She may be crazy at times but I wouldn't trade it for anything! She rocks!

* I also love having awesome friends who are always real and honest! That is such a blessing that many never get to experience!

* I have so much laundry to do...how do I have this much when there is only two of us in the house! I wonder how bad it will be after we have kids!

* I love the weekends...spending time with my husband and our great friends, relaxing, being at C3 on Sunday...It doesn't get much better than that!

Well I need to go figure out what we're going to eat for dinner!

GO COLTS!

Reach Out!

2007-09-05T19:33:00.000-04:00

I have been thinking a lot lately about the community around me, and about reaching them. I am so proud to be part of C3 where our Pastor and staff have a desire to reach the community around us. I am looking forward to the amazing things C3 will do to reach the community, but at the same time I am reminded of what I need to be doing to reach the community. I have neighbors that I don't know and I am around thousands of people at school that I don't know...I am reminded that I should try to get to know them!

I know C3 is going to do a great job of reaching the community but lately God has been teaching me that we can do so much to help them! People are much more willing to go to a church when they know someone there...not that many people like the feeling of walking into a big church when they don't know a single person (I remember that...it wasn't fun!). Although, I think the theater will help with that...it's a familiar atmosphere...but it always makes it more comfortable if there is a familiar face. Sometimes, even with a familiar face, people don't like the idea of walking into any kind of church...I can understand that, too...who knows what kind of experience they have previously had in various churches!

This is why I am so thankful for our Home Team ministry. What an awesome way to connect with the community around you! I am excited to be able to invite the people around me to our young married home team. That just makes for such an easy invitation...to invite them to your house or to come with you to someone else's house close by. To me, it isn't as intimidating to someone to invite them into that setting versus a church setting. I love that C3 gives us this opportunity and tool to reach people!

I am so excited for the future at C3...I love that this is a place willing to do what it takes to reach the community and connect them with Christ!

Here we go!

2007-09-03T19:11:00.000-04:00

It was great to have a long weekend! I really needed the rest, but it's back to busyness tomorrow. It starts with class at 7:30am, and I have to go tomorrow. I usually have this routine of trying to talk myself out of going in the morning...I try to rationalize it, but not tomorrow! Then, I am off to work and then back to school in the evening! Phew...I'm tired already just thinking about it. =)

Of course tomorrow, The Office season three comes out! I have been waiting for it so this is very exciting for me...I get excited about the little things in life!

...But tonight at 8pm starts FSU's season! There won't be any going to bed early at our house! I love football season =)

Go Noles!

Powerhouse Sunday

2007-09-02T23:43:00.000-04:00

This was another great Sunday at C3! I have been talking about how this Sunday would be my first in Powerhouse, and it was awesome! God is doing such amazing things through all of our volunteers! It was so encouraging to watch all the kids focus on the actors, dance and sing, and just be so engaged!

God is so good! We never seem to be sure if we will have enough staff, but week after week He provides! I really do hope that all the volunteers know how important they are...all of them, even the people who are unseen. They all do so much and work so hard to make Powerhouse what it is! We couldn't do it without all of you! =) God is using these volunteers in amazing ways. They connect so well with the kids and their families.

I love being able to stand back and watch it all happen. I watched as the parents came in to pick up their kids and you can see the look on their faces...a look of excitement for their children. A look of joy in knowing their kids are being loved and being taught the love of Jesus. Then of course you see the kids faces. They are priceless! They have that look of...do we have to leave now?! And...When can we come back?! That is what it's all about! I am so thankful for all of our volunteers. They are amazing. I am also so thankful for our God who helps us communicate His love to these kids.

Powerhouse Rocks!

Friday Night Thoughts...

2007-08-31T23:57:00.001-04:00

Matt and I came to Jacksonville today for my 11 year old sister's birthday party! We had a blast, but I am tired and it's late so here are my random thoughts from today:

* Kids are so awesome and being around them reminds me that I should have more of a child-like faith.

* My back is still hurting...I have no clue what I did to it, but back pain really stinks!

* Matt is doing such a great job taking care of me...since my back disables me!

* Honesty is very important to me...I can't stand lies, they only hurt people!

* God has really been teaching me who I can trust...

* Having people in your life that you can really and truly trust is priceless.

* Princess had a blast tonight with all the girls! She will sleep good tonight!

* I am such a home person, I am already missing my bed! (and my TiVo!)

* We finally took our car to the shop today....of course they aren't sure what's wrong with it!

* I am so excited for the future of C3...The theaters are going to rock!

* I have really been encouraged by others' blogs lately...Blogging is such a great tool to teach and encourage those around you!!

* This Sunday will be my first as the director in Powerhouse...I am so excited!

Okay- I need to go...Matt and I are going to watch a Madea movie!! She always makes me laugh...Here's why!

Laugh Away!

Funny Friday!

2007-08-31T10:26:00.000-04:00

The Office - "Andy Annoyance"
Okay I know I have posted two other Office videos and I was going to look for something else this time, but this was too funny to pass up! Oh my...I love this show! =) I think I am officially an Office addict! =)

Laugh Away!

Who's Up for a Challenge?

2007-08-29T21:57:00.000-04:00

I have been challenged in many areas of my life lately, and I have started to realize that I enjoy being challenged. No matter what area of life it is...it seems to be something that has grown on me. Whether it is at work, in my family life, or in my faith.

I have definitely have been challenged at work. I have been trying to figure out a computer program (and I am by no means a computer wiz!)...the ins and outs of it and how to use it for various ministries. I found myself starting to get frustrated, thinking this must be impossible! When I did eventually figure it out...it was extremely rewarding! To be honest, I think I secretly like having to work to figure things out...No clue why, I just do! =) I am also moving to Power House this Sunday, instead of being in First Look. I am excited about the move. Although, I will miss my First Look teachers and kids, I am looking forward to getting to know more teachers and more kids! It will be a challenge, but again, one that I know will be very rewarding.

I also am challenged in my faith. I am challenged by those around me who encourage me to be the person God wants me to be. I am challenged when I find myself worrying about things that, I need to remember, God has control of. I am challenged by my husband who is always encouraging me and reminding me of the best way to handle situations, and I am challenged by myself at times...I know I should not have the fears I have, and I know that I should not let the insecurities I have get the best of me.

The great thing about knowing what fears and insecurities I have is that I have a God who is always there for me and I can give all my worries and fears to Him! I also have a husband who will encourage me and remind me that I am not perfect...and that's okay!

Thanks to all who have challenged and encouraged me lately!

"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing."

1 Thessalonians 5:11

Unconditional!

2007-08-29T00:50:00.001-04:00

It has been a crazy day and I can't yet go to sleep...So I figured I would blog. It's really late so it won't be long.

I just want to say that I am so thankful for a God who loves us through anything! I think it is amazing that no matter what we do He will never let go of us!  

I have to say that I am also thankful for the way God provides...He is so faithful if we just are patient and have faith in Him. It is hard for me to be patient at times! I have a tendency to try and take control of problems myself and think I can solve everything. I have recently learned that I can not do all things by myself, but only in Christ is that possible. It is something that God has been teaching me for a while and I am so thankful for that. I am thankful to be able to learn lessons from our God who loves us unconditionally. That word is so amazing and to think that our God can love us in that way, in spite of the mistakes we make, is awesome!

God blesses is so many ways and I am so thankful for His love for us! I am also thankful for my wonderful husband! He is the best and helps me so much and in so many ways. He is always so patient with me and also unconditionally loving! God has blessed me so much through him...I love him!

I am just so grateful for unconditional love. What an amazing thing!

Monday Madness!

2007-08-27T20:03:00.000-04:00

Today was a 'Monday'...Here are my random thoughts from today:

* I wanted to sleep all day today...I am not feeling well! I think there is something going around.

* Not feeling well makes Monday's even more...'Monday!'

* I am trying to keep myself from getting sick so Matt keeps making me drink Airborne...That stuff tastes nasty!

* I am a baby when it comes to medicine! =)

* Working at C3 actually makes Monday's not so bad! It is encouraging to see the lives that were changed on Sunday and that makes Monday's great!

* I am grateful for my husband who has taken care of me since I started to feel sick...He says I need to rest. =)

* I am also thankful for our wonderful friends! It is great to have people you can always count on!

* I am so excited...Next Tuesday The Office season 3 comes out on DVD! I am going to have to re-watch it before the season premier!

* Our puppy is crazy and she thinks it is her job to protect us...She only weighs 17 pounds! She's a little ball of energy though!

* I am remembering that I need to go to bed early...I have class at 7:30am tomorrow! Oh man...is it December yet?!

* I am getting more and more excited about C3's move to the theater!

Okay, I think that was as random as you get! =) I am going to go rest up some more!

Hope your Monday was great!

What a Day!

2007-08-26T21:24:00.000-04:00

Today was an absolutely amazing Sunday! The service was almost a reflection of a year ago, when C3 launched as a new church. The Pastors all answered the questions: Would you take it back? And What are you most excited about? They got me even more excited about the future of C3 than I already was! They all have so much passion for the vision of C3. I am grateful and proud to be able to say I am a member of a church where our Pastors have so much integrity and drive for the vision God has placed for us!

As I look back on the past year I know I have grown and learned so much about church and the way it should be done. I have so much of a deep appreciation for all the staff does to reach the lost, and for all of the people who invest in C3 and make it the welcoming, free to be yourself, place that it is!

We also had our Crave back to school kick-off tonight! It was awesome. I am excited about the fall with Crave and how God is going to use the new series Travis is starting in a couple weeks. Being a part of student ministry is such a privilege for me! I never had people to invest in me the way our leaders do in these students, and it is so great to see the them grow and become excited about church!

Today was just an awesome day! All I can say is...I love C3!