Sunday, February 28, 2010

WHAT?!

Just heard that PCH is flooding due to the tsunami warnings and all the crazy stuff that's going on right now...
so I decided to look it up. Found this video taken today and I was in this same exact spot pretty much JUST one week ago with Curtis... now it's flooded. Crazy.

Mmmmm...

I can't wait to be here...

Two weeks till spring break!

Whoa.

Came across this photo...
Can you say God is BEAUTIFUL???!!!

Saturday, February 27, 2010

Such a great night!


Wow, tonight was SO much fun. Went to Coffee Depot with the Doty clan to listen to a family friend play acoustic and sing, and then I found out Angela was working that night! Haven't seen her in a while, so it was awesome to catch up! :) And she makes some pretty bomb coffee on top of that. ;)) Really though, I'm so amazed at the gifts God's given people. David is so talented not only at singing and playing the guitar, but writing songs as well! It's especially awesome that he uses his talent for God's glory and writes his songs about God, life, and his wife. He sang his wedding vows... SO ADORABLE!!! Then after he sang, I had a "small world" moment when I found out that Eddie Cullen so was singing is the brother of my friend's sister's husband. Got that? So like my friends brother in law, law....yeah that's confusing... haha! But WOW! He was so wonderful too! Him and the girl, Savana, that he was singing with. Just astounding. She wrote and performed some awesome songs as well! She had a really pretty, unique voice that doesn't get old. And just the joy and enthusiasm they all had was so enjoyable and entertaining to watch! I really want to learn to sing and play guitar super bad! It looks so much fun just to get up there and jam. :)

This weekend's agenda


~Homework
~Nursing Application
~Coffee Depot with the Dotys
~Studying
~Genesis 18
~Church
~Male Chorale
~Studying

Thursday, February 25, 2010

Crossing the Sea... through the storms.

Mark 4:35-41
On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, "Let us go across to the other side." And leaving the crowd, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. And other boats were with him. And a great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was already filling. But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke him and said to him, "Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?" And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Peace! Be still!" And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. He said to them, "Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?" And they were filled with great fear and said to one another, "Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?"

Everyone knows this story. It's a classic Bible story that is taught at a young age in Sunday school. But not until recently, and recently meaning like 3 years ago, did I really grasp this story and find so much comfort in it. I forget if I was doing my own devotions or heard it in a sermon, but nonetheless, I was blessed and it taught me that Jesus never breaks His word! Yes, I have seen a rainbow and I know what it stands for... but this too really touched my life when I spent time in it and took it to heart.
First of all, notice how in the passage Jesus says "Let us go ACROSS to the other side"... what was that? Across? Yup. Jesus said go ACROSS to the other side. Not part way, not half way, not even 7/8 of the way and then swim the other 1/8. Nope. Jesus said across. Then, probably what is a main factor in the story (lol)...the storm comes. And it's a big one at that. They go and wake Jesus, make a fuss about how they are going to perish, but then Jesus gets up, merely speaks, yes SPEAKS, to the sea and in an instant the storm is GONE and everything is calm. Totally still. In this part, I find it interesting (and significant) that Jesus is asleep when the storm comes. He knows they are going to get to the other side so he has the peace in knowing that they will indeed get there and so he is able to rest. Also, it's not like Jesus whispered "let us go across to the other side" to himself. The disciples heard him say that. They knew that they were going across the sea. But when a storm comes a long, their faith is lost and they make quite the fuss.

This is what really struck me because how often in our lives does that happen? I know for myself, this is a struggle I have. Even currently, with the nursing applications, and finding out if I will be accepted for the fall... it's a struggle. I'll fuss and complain and doubt. Sad. But the thing is... if God wants me to be a nurse for His glory... He will get me there. No questions asked. Will there be bumps and trials and storms along the way? I'd be surprised if there weren't. But the fact is that if it is God's will. It will be done. "Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?" Ahhhh! This verse just gets at me. I feel like Jesus is talking directly to me. Why am I afraid? Why in the world do I doubt? If it is His will, it will be done. In HIS timing I might add. Obviously, this does not apply just to me and my situation. Whatever you may be going through, this can definitely apply. For a career, school, family issues, friends, and even when it comes to relationships. If it is God's will for you to get married, it will happen, it definitely won't be a smooth ride, there will be ups and downs, but in the end it will all be worth it and you will reach the shore across the sea. The God who can calm roaring seas and blustering winds with just His voice...THAT'S whose in control of your future. THAT'S who YOU serve. THAT'S who LOVES YOU. YOU. LOVES. YOU. He loves you. And He is your God. We never have any right to doubt Him. Although we may fall short sometimes...a lot of times... He is still and always will be sovereign. He will get you across the sea. Storms and all.

Monday, February 22, 2010

You know what sounds delicious right now?

Sunday, February 21, 2010

Blessed through gifts...

What a blessing it is when God's children use their gifts for His glory and to encourage others in Christ.
Every (well... just about) Sunday, I have the privilege of getting to go watch a group of about 80 college-aged men use their gifts for God's glory. The Cal Baptist University Male Chorale. Some are blessed in different ways; the pianist is an absolute genius, the percussion guys are so upbeat and get really into the songs (which helps the audience get into it too), the brass section is always energetic, as well as talented, one of the guys even plays about four or five different instruments and uses them all in once performance. And of course, all of the boys can sing really well! They sing a wide range of songs from spirituals such as "Go Down, Moses", to Swahili songs, to Americana songs, and then there are just fun songs such as "Cindy".
You would think because I go to just about all their performances and even some practices that I would get bored or annoyed with it right? Ha... wrong! From the first time I saw them perform, the excitement and enthusiasm has not died down. These boys sing with such energy and passion that it is hard not to smile or even sing along sometimes. They are not only talented, but very entertaining!
The most amazing thing though? All these boys... sorry... MEN are doing it for the glory of God and it shows. I've never met a rude Male Chorale guy. They are all so polite and uplifting. Although some only know me by "Curtis' girlfriend" they always make a point to wave or smile if they recognize me. But really, how awesome is it that 80 college aged guys that come from different backgrounds come together to sing praises to our King? And then use that gift to sing praises with others and be a witness?
Adults have said it's encouraging to see a group of young people such as them... it gives them hope for the future. Personally, for me, a girl, it's so encouraging to see all these guys be leaders and seek to bring God glory. It brings hope indeed.
Every time I watch and listen to them, I get that "deep in the soul" feeling that tells me everything is going to be ok... some call that feeling peace. :) And it is, it's very peaceful to listen to as well as uplifting!
Check out this clip and see for yourself.
If you want you can play "Where's Curtis?" too. He's in there, but hard to find, because his hair is short. :) Haha!

CBU Male Chorale "You Will Be Our God" from California Baptist University on Vimeo.

Saturday, February 20, 2010

Going a little darker...

Got the hair did... went a little darker :)
Not really sure if you can tell in the pics but oh well, here they are!

Thursday, February 18, 2010

Whee!


Such a fun little phone!!! I love it! :)

It's possessed.

You have failed me, phone. :(
It went totally psycho. I can't fix it. Verizon no longer carries it.
aka PROBLEM!

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

That much closer...


I have to say...I'm being a bad child right now...I'm currently sitting in history class "learning" about WWI... but it just hit me that, through passing my TEAS test, God has brought me one step closer to being a nurse. Say whaaaaaaaat? Yup! Now, I'm totally NOT saying that I am definitely in the nursing program for next semester, cause it is still terribly competitive, but the fact that God allowed me (yes, allowed) to pass my test, I am that much closer to my dream of finally being a nurse! Wooohooo! In case you didn't know, nursing is my passion, and I feel called to be a part of it, all for His glory. I see a HUGE ministry opportunity there and I really can't picture myself anywhere else. Well... except being a wife and mother... but you know what I mean, right?
Anyway, it's just so amazing to see a prayer turn into reality. Each step God has guided and He is forever faithful. Even just the fact that He gave us a new, beautiful day is astounding... cause ya know He really didn't have to. It's a gift. The breath you just took? A gift. Oh hey look at that you just produced 2,000,000 new red blood cells in the time it took you to read this sentence. Yup, that's a gift. The meal you just ate, eating, or about to eat in a little bit? You guessed it, it's a gift. And uh HELLOOOOO! What are you reading this on right now?! A computer? Laptop? Macbook(woot wooooot!)?! Are you aware at how blessed we are to have such technology?! We are so blessed. We need to use all we are blessed with to reach out to God's nations.
But what I really wanted to emphasize was that God will always be right by our side holding our hand guiding us through every step of our lives. We just need to hold his hand back, trust Him, and allow Him to lead (cause His plan is above all) us wherever He takes us. In passing the TEAS, I am one step closer. It may just be one step... but that one step helps me to get closer to the finish line. Until then, I'll keep running, seeking to hold His hand as He guides me through all the switchbacks, hills, and narrows. Solo Dia Gloria.

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

84.1

I'm so stoked I passed my TEAS test! I really didn't know what to expect! I really feel like I can fly right now. :)
Thank you Jesus for guiding me through! I really don't know what else to say... except...God is Faithful. :)

Thursday, February 11, 2010

Side note...

You're sweet nothings mean everything to me.

June '08

Monday, February 8, 2010

Broken.

I want to EMBRACE God's peace... not just know it's there...

If anyone remembers this throughout their week I would appreciate prayer on this so so much.

If you have any prayer requests, please message me. I'd love to pray for, pray with, and talk to you.

Friday, February 5, 2010

BTW, FYI...

10 things I wish I could say to 10 different people
1. I really do miss you, but I'm not sure you feel the same?
2. You really do mean the world to me.
3. I'm here for you if you ever need anything at all, I wish we could spend more time together.
4. Don't talk to her like that.
5. I want to grow closer as a friend to you, you're such an awesome person!
6. Let's get lunch sometime.
7. PLEASE, accept me into the nursing program!
8. You're an inspiration.
9. I really appreciate all you do for our family!
10. You too, mom. :)


9 things about myself
1. I want my relationship with God to grow deeper and more passionate everyday.
2. I adore my family and love spending time with them.
3. My boyfriend is my best friend.
4. I wish I could spend another day with my great grandpa.
5. I want to be a missionary nurse.
6. I really do love reading, but don't have the time anymore. :(
7. I want to be broken for the things that breaks the heart of God.
8. I am slowly starting to get addicted to coffee.
9. I love biblical femininity and being a woman.

8 ways a boy can win my heart
1. Be a gentleman.
2. Sing me a song.
3. Encourage me in the gospel.
4. Lead me in the gospel.
5. Prays with me.
6. Is his goofy self with me.
7. Goes on adventures with me.
8. Values purity.


7 things I couldn't live without doing
1. Spending time reflecting on God's creation.
2. Talking with my girlfriends.
3. Playing with children, holding a little baby.
4. Laughing with the ones I love.
5. Seeking to be the woman God would have me to be.
6. Long talks with inspiring people.
7. Acting crazy with my family.

6 things I'm trying to change in my life
1. Jealousy.
2. Better study habits.
3. Be a better cook.
4. Get into a habit of exercising.
5. Take better care of my health.
6. Become a woman of God more everyday.

5 people who inspire me
1. My parents - for believing in me and encouraging me to cease every opportunity
2. My siblings - for reminding me by example to have fun in life
3. Curtis Doty - to live the life God has given me to the fullest and to be a better woman
4. Megan Schilling - for her joyful spirit no matter what life may bring
5. Jeff Lewis - to live a passionate life for God and to be a servant to all His nations


4 things I think I do pretty well
1. Find the good in a situation
2. Lend a shoulder to anyone who needs it
3. Making new friends
4. Help others

3 songs that you listen to often (currently)
1. Fireflies - Owl City
2. Be OK - Ingrid Michaelson
3. Live Like We're Dying - Kris Allen

2 things you want to do before you die
1. Become a wife and mother
2. Lead someone to Christ through nursing

1 confession
Tell me I can't, I'll show you I can. I don't like being underestimated.

Rainy days and ....Fridays?

I don't know what it is about rainy days, but I absolutely adore them. Maybe it's because, here in sunny SoCal, we don't get them that often? Maybe because of the fresh smell afterwards or the lush greenery we are left with? Possibly because it is a little cooler outside and we get to bundle up in scarves and sweaters? Not really sure. Maybe its all of those things.
For some reason, these days seem like the perfect study day. Grab a cup of hot coffee, your lap top, and some books and you're set. Again, not really sure why, but I love it.
I guess that's really all I have to say about that. Not too interesting, but hey, it's something. :)