Monday, September 26, 2005

a GREAT weekend

This last weekend was the BEST weekend since I have moved! Friday night started with Mexican food at my house with four friends and then an Indigo Girls concert. The concert was amazing. They are one of my favorite groups and they never disappoint in concert. I was like a little kid at a candy store as I sat their listening to not only amazing musicians, but also to some of the best song writing. I was blessed and challenged.

The weekend only got better on Saturday when I drove to Charlotte to see my friends Kristen, Ryan, and Josh from Waco! They were in town for a conference and I was really needing to see some familiar faces. I had only planned to stay for the day, but I ended up staying the night! It was such a refreshing time for me. I came back to Greensboro rejuvenated for the next few months. I am in this weird stage of really loving all of my new friends, but also wanting to see those who know me so well. I have realized that nothing can make up for years of walking this life together. This weekend made me realize how much I will cherish Christmas when I go back to see everyone.

Thursday, September 22, 2005

Memories of Galveston

Last night as I talked to my dad on the phone about Rita, I started to cry. The idea of Galveston being destroyed was too much for me. Galveston is the home of some of my best childhood memories.

First I think of the beach. I know that Galveston is not the best beach in the states, but it was the beach that we went to when I was young. It was where I played in the sand and bobbed in the water. It was were I fell in love with the vastness of the ocean (or gulf).

Next my mind goes to the Bishop's Palace. This is an old mansion in Galveston. I remember walking through it as a child and marveling at the beautiful architecture and the marble fireplaces. I did not understand why they needed a huge fireplace in each room, but could imagine myself living in such a place!

There was this other house that offered tours that we went to once. It was not as big or ornate at the Bishop's Palace, but it was my favorite. It was at this house that I learned of the hurricane that had devastated Galveston and led to the building of the sea-wall. I was fascinated with the history of the place I loved. I can remember sitting in the basement of that house and watching a film about the hurricane and the effort of the people after.

But my favorite memory of Galveston is Gaidos. Gaidos is the most amazing seafood restaurant in the world! I have such wonderful recollections of mom, dad, Mandy, and I going there for dinner. We would sit by the window and watch the waves break. One day we sat there and thought we saw a shark, but then realized it was a dolphin! To think back brings tears of joy.

I love Galveston and I am sad that I am just now realizing how much the town means to me. I pray for the days ahead and what will become of the place that holds such wonderful memories. I know I will always have these memories, but the place I love is home to so many.

Wednesday, September 21, 2005

No More Stress

I have decided that I refuse to be stressed anymore. I hate the way it makes me feel and it is ridiculous to go around everyday in such a state. I understand that stress is necessary at times (at times being the key). Several of the girls in my program and I decided that we are through with stress. We are not sure exactly how to do this but we are giving it a shot. I have already felt better this week. This in no way means that I am not busy as all get out, but it does mean that I am enjoying my busy schedule. I refuse to be a part of something that I do not enjoy. I want to think back on these three years as a wonderful experience, not a ball of stress. So anyone feel free to join me in a stress free life!