April's blog

Thoughts on Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T21:44:00.002-05:00

Today started out beautifully. I woke up to the aroma of strawberry muffins. My roommate, Liesse was so sweet and made some for my Heidi and I. A cheerful way to start the day. As the day
went I worked in one of the buildings on campus and a girl had just received a bouquet of flowers. I mingled with close friends at lunch. I could see out of the corner of my eye couples giggling and hugging each other. Today represented happiness and love. After lunch, I scurried to take my seat at Bel Canto and colors of red and pink, purple filled the room.

As I reflect on today, "God's love was shown through the students wherever I was". I've never been in a serious relationship so I may not understand the love a couple experiences. I do know that God's love is immeasurable compared to any relationship or happiness or source of joy found here on earth. I'm incredibly thankful for my family, and my best and dearest girl friends who have supported me along the journey.

Happy Valentines's Day!

Why I love the Holidays

2011-12-11T10:41:00.007-05:00

This holiday season has brought joy and blessings

Below are a couple of pictures of my family at Thanksgiving

My roommates and I have brought the holidays to our apartment with food and decorations

Happy Holidays to all!

My Grandma

2011-11-06T08:52:00.003-05:00

(picture taken on my 22nd birthday, Summer 2011)

For those of you who have been keeping in touch with me, my Grandma has been declining the last month. She had an accident and ran her electric wheelchair into her bed and had to be admitted to the hospital for an infection. Ever since then she has become weaker and sleeps most of the day. She has been put on skilled nursing care. Three weeks ago things were getting really bad for her. I was unable to go home for midterm break but my Mom told me I really needed to visit her on that Sunday. My brother Aaron was super thoughtful and drove all the way day to take me home. That day was emotional yet very meaningful for me. I was able to spend the whole afternoon with her and tell her what she has meant to our family and her spiritual influence. She has been the matriarch of the Dittes/McNulty/Gates/Hankins families.

This has been very hard for me when I returned back to my apartment that night I cried myself to sleep. It's hard to imagine my dear Grandma not being here. She's always been here. Everyone has gone to her for counsel. Her home was place for us of all grandchildren to hang out. We could pop in any time. My best childhood memories were spent there. She's been such a godly influence. I know I would not be the person I am today because of the spiritual influence she had on my Mom, who influenced of all of us children. Grandma is 95 years old. I love her so much. I don't want to say goodbye. It's very difficult thinking of it. I ended up going home again last weekend. She showed signs of improvement and was so sweet. Last night the report is she is not doing well.

Please pray for her. My heart longs for the day when everything is perfect and we will all be together.

(picture taken Oct 29, 2011)

Phi Alpha and Fall weekend at home

2011-10-30T15:47:00.009-04:00

So I really want to update my blog more often. Especially since it's my Senior year. So much is happening so fast. I'm feeling a little bit of Senioritis. At the same time I don't want to leave a place where the best years of my life has been spent. I have grown so much in every area of my life spiritually, socially, and academically.

This year has been unusually busy first because:

I'm finishing my BSW year (13 credits this semester)

200 hour practicum

(I'm in the midst of my internship working on completing all the competencies)

GYCSE Secretary: my roles include taking notes at our weekly. Also I am the Great Controversy groups Coordinator. This last month my friend Michelle and I recruited 5 people to be leaders. Cards are being passed around campus now. The five groups will be meeting weekly to discuss and study different chapters of the Great Controversy. This book is so important for the time we are living in. It is a apart of the GC initiative for revival and reformation. We want to have revival here at Southern.

Phi Alpha President: President of the Honor Society in the Social work department. Our mission is to be of service to others. We conduct two community service events a semester. We also encourage Social work majors to have academic achievement.

It has been super crazy busy for me this semester. Any free moment I have when not studying or doing internship is spent making sure things are getting done in Great Controversy groups or Phi Alpha. It's been a humbling experience. I know couldn't do it without the Lord's help. It's been an honor to work for Him in these ways. I love being a part of these activities.

This past weekend the Phi Alpha club went to an assisted living center in Chattanooga. We interacted and visited with the residents. It was so enriching to visit with them and hear share funny stories. Everyone laughed the whole time. I love working with the elderly.

Jane and I. She had quite the sense of humor and shouting out, "Hey you,... listen to me."

After I went to the assisted living center. I visited a Jewish synagogue with a friend for a World Religions assignment. It gained such a blessing hearing their music and participating in their worship service.

On Sabbath, I drove home to see my immediate family. My main concern has been my Grandma who has not been doing well. I want to thank everyone who has been praying for her. It has made a difference in her life and she is doing better! Please continue to pray for her.

Enjoyed seeing my brother Aaron and his girlfriend Cassandra

Net 2011 was held this past month only 40 min from my house in Madison, TN

It was exhilarating to hear the final sermon and to see the fruits from the meetings. Over 50 people are going to be baptized from their site. It has been broadcasted all over the world on the Hope Channel. I love evangelism and seeing souls won for Christ. My Mom and I were moved when the ones who made decisions for baptism stood in the front at the end of the service. I could see so much happiness written across their faces. Heaven was rejoicing!

Look forward to more updates! Much to share..

Midterm break

2011-10-23T23:41:00.002-04:00

Spending time with family on midterm break was a real treat. Here is a pic from this past Sabbath. I love my family.

Move your Hand!

2011-07-30T16:29:00.002-04:00

As I am writing it is the Sabbath afternoon. I have the time to contemplate and reflect on God's goodness to me, and listen to uplifiting music. I realize that I need to continue finishing writing about my favorite Colombian experiences.

The first weekend, on Sunday I preached "Move your Hand" sermon. This sermon was talked about how we can find the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ, and we can receive salvation through four steps.

1. Accept
2. Believe
3. Confess our sins
4. Decide publicly for Jesus

This night I was going to be making an appeal for people to accept Jesus as their personal Saviour for the first time. Two minutes before I made the appeal a car driving in street stopped right in front of the Paraiso church. The music was blaring over the audience. I immediately thought and prayed, "Jesus be with us." I knew God was stronger than this big distraction. My voice got louder and stronger. I felt like I was shouting at the audience. When the appeal finished 8 people walked to the front to accept Jesus as their Savior for the first time. I know Heaven was rejoicing and the angels.

It was this night that a man, Raphael (pseudo name) started coming. He greeted me in English- and continued to come to the rest of the meetings. Every night I could see his heart hungry for the truth and he was excited to learn the truth. It was exicting for me to see how he was accepting the messages including the Sabbath message. He told me three nights before the campaign that he was going to be there till the end. It was really hard to say goodbye. It was hard to get to know and connect with all of my visitors because of the language barrier. This man touched my heart because his hunger for the Word was filled during the meetings. I continue to pray for him.

Next post is about an unlikely visitor who came to my campaign.

Share Him to Colombia

2011-06-03T23:11:00.003-04:00

I can't tell you how happy and how changed my life has been since doing this trip to Colombia! We left as missionaries to share the Word of God with the residents, but we came back changed finding that Christ's Word still has so much power!

This will be my first blog of series sharing my favorite experiences or stories from the trip.

The first weekend that I started my series. I started not knowing what to expect. I had a meeting with the Paraiso church and talking about the organization of the meetings. My impression was this was going to be a great church to work with, small, yet potential. They shared with me how they had been working hard to invite people from the community to come to the meetings. I shared with them that I would be praying for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. We looked through the list to make sure that I was prepped appropriately for the meeting. We looked through my presentation equipment. Not being a pro at it myself, we tried to communicate with each other how to use the Share Him presentation Synchronizer. After 10 minutes it finally appeared on the medium sized wall to the right of the stage. Relief was felt. I really enjoy meeting people for the first time. This experience was a little different. I couldn't communicate what I wanted to say in their language. It was very brief short sentences. I learned that night that anything that I really want to express to my friends would have to be interpreted through my translator. After we were all done setting up the equipment, and safely putting it away in my black case. The pastor took me in his car. I talked with my interpreter the whole way home. She walked with me inside and all the way to the sixth floor of San Jose Hotel. Oh, "we should really practice tomorrow around noon. I want us to be really prepared for the first meeting," I said to her. She agreed to come back to the hotel the next day. She never showed up. I got worried and wondered how our first meeting would go. I couldn't worry too much, because I had to practice and know my sermon well. The first night came. One of the girls, Andreas who would later become a good friend to me in the church said, "Are you the evangelist, you are so young!?" Yes, I could not believe it myself. I had imagined this day coming. But now here it really was.

The first sermon was frustrating. I got on stage, and realized that after explaining to the church the night before how to set up the equipment they had incorrectly set it up. The slides were three behind what I actually said. I thought, here are new visitors, church members, "What do they think of me." The only part of the presentation I could make a connection with the audience was when it should a 30 sec video of the image of Daniel, and I rehearsed it again. God still spoke through me that night even through technical difficulties. I talked with our group leader, and campaign manager they helped a lot with the situation. By Saturday night, we had the program running and synchronized perfectly with my notes! I was happy!

At the beginning of the series. God was teaching me patience and learning to depend on Him. I found that He still blessed even though my Powerpoint wasn't working correctly for the first two sermons. Our visitors still continued to come back because they were receiving spiritual meat from our sermons.

Preaching in Colombia

2011-05-14T15:24:00.005-04:00

I'm here in Colombia preaching my first full evangelistic series. I can tell you that so far my first two sermons have been rewarding. The people have shown excitement to hear the sermons on Jesus soon return. It has been trying to get the technology coordinated, and the powerpoint presentation. I don't speak their language. I need the Lord's help, and a miracle to happen this evening.

Last night, it was powerful to share how we are in the feet of Daniel's image and show how prophecy verifies history. The Bible is accurate and reliable! We had a good attendance. The church was packed when I spoke for the church service today I feel unworthy to be doing this, but am blessed to be used by God to spread the three angels messages. Please continue to pray for me.

I absolutely love it here in Colombia. The food is delicious, and the people are the most loving I have met. I love the culture! It is beautiful here and I will treasure each day.

I'm here to spread the gospel. I love Jesus, and I want my friends here in Colombia to have Him in their lives too.

Feliz Sabado!

Missions this summer!

2011-04-10T22:23:00.006-04:00

This weekend was reviving for me. I decided at the beginning of the school year to go on a mission trip with the Evangelistic Resource Center. After attending orientation meetings I am pumped up to Share Him to others! I can't wait to share Bible doctrines and the beauty of understanding God's word in these times to my audience. I pray that many will come and desire to accept Jesus for themselves. My roommates went to ARME Bible camp this weekend and were incredibly blessed. Ivor Myers, Taj Pacleb, Calvin Kim, Dr. Paul Ratsara were the presenters. Truly revival and reformation is occuring in our church. I can see the spirit working on hearts here on campus and have seen transformations in their lives. There is a movement that exists in our church. My roommate, Becca was sharing with me that after this weekend she really has a desire to be an evangelist for the Lord. I want to be an evangelist too! We both agreed that there is nothing, I mean NOTHING more fulfilling than sharing the gospel with others and seeing what happens in their lives. It would be a dream for me to be a international singer and share the gospel with others. Right now, I have a callling to make a difference in people's lives on a individual basis but helping them with their emotional and spiritual needs. I want to use what I learn this summer to help me to continue to witness to others personally. Nothing is more fulfilling than serving Jesus!

Noshaq Banquet

2011-04-09T22:22:00.008-04:00

Last Sunday my girl friends and I went to a Benefit banquet. Here are some pics from the evening.

Phi Alpha Induction

2011-03-27T22:03:00.009-04:00

A couple of weekends ago I was inducted into the Phi Alpha Honor society. It's hard to believe that I've been studying here at Southern for three years. The program was really nice and it was even more special to have my Mom and best friends there. I was able to reflect on what my school, classmates, profressors, school, friends, and family have meant to me through this journey. I remember my freshmen year choosing Social work as major and being excited about it. I remember walking into Mrs. Baker's office many timest the first semester of the Social work program my Junior year and feeling supported and helped through the whole process. I remember Mrs. Heck's Valentine card to each of us Juniors that said "You are loved", with Bible promises written with our own names in them. I am so thankful to have had the privilege to receive my education at Southern and the relationships I have built there I will always treasure. One more year till I receive my degree!

Debbie and I walking to Daniells Hall afterwards for refreshments

Kirsten and I

Surprise visit

2011-03-26T13:42:00.003-04:00

At the end of this week, I felt exhaustion from the semester. 14 hours of classes, work, practicum during Spring break. I love it all but I need rest. It just so happened that I had to go to an town near Nashville for a tag renewal on Friday which is only 20 minutes from home. How could I pass going home for the weekend? Thursday during my hour break between work and choir/ classes I filled out a weekend leave request and made a final decision, but one thing I wasn't going to was tell my Mom. I would surprise her. So yesterday after I finished my car errands I headed up the ridge to my sweet hometown, and drove into my driveway. Ranger my dog, wagged her tail at my arrival. My Mom, was so surprised, happy, and smiling. She had no idea that I would come It was nice to surprise her and find refreshment at home after an intense week. Last night I slept for many hours, and felt at home going to the Highland church today.

Spring Break

2011-03-03T19:39:00.009-05:00

The end of Spring break has already come upon me. This week I have been doing a 40 hour practicum at Memorial Hospital. I'm getting to close to the end of my education. Exciting and yet a little nervous at the same time. Pray for me as I look for the right internship for my Senior year. Last weekend I went home to spend time with my whole immediate family. It was refreshing to be together as a family and share many laughs and talks. Doing observation at Memorial this week has helped me a lot to see what I really enjoy and what I do not.

After my first day at practicum I spent time with my girls. What a fun evening and delicious food!

At the end of our tangerine party

Updates will be coming more often!

Reflections on the 2nd week at Southern

2011-01-15T20:25:00.005-05:00

The second week of school came upon us soon! I heard that Collegedale was going to get six inches of snow but had a hard time believing that much snow would come. Sunday night I looked out my window next to my bed and there was not a drop of snow on the ground. Then at 6:30 in the morning I woke up and our backyard was transformed into a winter wonderland. 8 inches of snow! My roommates and I were so excited! Debbie ran out to show everyone that there really was a lot of snow. Kristi made pumpkin cookies and and then in the afternoon we went sledding with Suzanne. The first time I went down with Becca we fell off. It was so funny! More friends joined us and we made games and ate cookies at our apartment after it was over. It was a blast to go sledding! I hadn't gone since elementary school. It was wonderful to have Monday and Tuesday off from school.

It was still an adjustment second week to get used to my classes, and know what I was doing. I'm really enjoying all of my classes and am taking my core Social work classes. On Thursday, our department had a convocation. The Seniors talked about their internships and practicums they are doing. It was inspiring, motivating, and left me excited about my career! It's a good thing to learn and be educated about social welfare policies, social theories, interviewing skills, and assessments in our classes. It's another thing to put it into practice and see how it is impacting others. The seniors in their agencies and hospitals are making a huge difference in the lives of people they are caring for. Connecting people to resources, empowering them, and helping them to have better lives.
It's hard to believe that I'm aleady in my second semester of my Junior year of college. It really doesn't seem that long ago I was a Senior anxious and excited to graduate from academy and next year it I'll be a Senior again!

Here a couple of pictures from our snow days:

Suzanne and Becca getting ready to sled down the hill.

A sled train of friends

Christmas Break: Part 1

2010-12-21T22:18:00.007-05:00

Christmas break has been a refreshing time for me. Taking time to contemplate on what I am thankful for this year, and spend a lot of time with my family. My brother Aaron has a girl friend, Cassandra and she has come to spend Christmas with us. Her sweet and fun spirit has added to our home. Today we both had to do errands in Gallatin, a town 20 minutes from home. We decided to venture out and walk in the older parts of it. It was fun looking at shops, finding rare items in a antique shop, admiring historical spots, and taking pictures.

Retreat

2010-11-24T20:09:00.011-05:00

It's Thanksgiving Eve and I have so much to be thankful for. I returned home last night. I rode back with Amy, Chelsea, and Caley. When we drove by downtown Nashville we agreed on how we felt back home. There's no place like home, and that's where I love to be at the holidays.

This past weekend I was able to spend more time getting to know some of the girls within my department at Southern. I am in the Phi Alpha Social work club this year, and we took a retreat together in Cleveland, Tennessee. It was refreshing to get away from school and to enjoy being

out in the country.

The house we stayed at

We went on a gorgeous two hour hike!

The girls on the retreat

Joelle and I!

Kirsten, me, and Jessica

Have a Happy Thankgiving!

Trip to Arkansas!

2010-10-13T17:52:00.011-04:00

This past weekend I drove 10 hours away to Arkansas for the wedding of Deborah Arakawa and Alistair Huong. It was a lovely and beautiful wedding! It was nice to see two dedicated people commit their lives together. It was also great to be together with my immediate family for the weekend.

Edwin, Norman (my brother), Alistair, and Tim have been best friends for years. They're all married now!

My family

The wedding

Tim and Sunny

My brothers and I

Our apartment

2010-09-22T19:26:00.009-04:00

This year I am living off campus in an apartment with Kristi, Debbie, and Rebecca. We are having a great year. It's been so much to hang out together in the apartment and spend time getting to know each other, and laugh.

The living room

Dining table/ kitchen

Backporch

My housemates! We shot some different poses. This is one of my favorites.

My roommate- Becca and I

Suzanne is our adopted housemate and we love having her over too. One Sunday she and Debbie made us pancakes, peach sauce, and scrambled tofu. It was yummy!

These pictures make me happy and thankful for beautiful friendships

My brother Aaron

2010-09-20T19:39:00.003-04:00

I've been having a great experience here at Southern these first three weeks. Love hanging out with my girl friends, getting into my classes, and seeing how God is working here at Southern. I will be blogging about it soon!

Last night, my brother Aaron called me and said he was coming down this way for the day. It was bright spot in my day to hang out with him and spend quality time catching up on life. We walked around the campus and he told me some of his stories while he was here. I love you Aaron, thanks for taking the time to spend time with me today. I meant a lot.

My favorite stories from Summer of Evangelism

2010-09-01T19:15:00.007-04:00

I can't forget to finish writing my experiences from Summer of Evangelism down in Atlanta. I shared a little bit when I was down there. God was working this summer! Our role as SEYC students was to do the lay work, pass out flyers, greeting, and follow ups at the evangelistic meetings. I worked at the Duluth SDA Church. It was exciting to see a lot of visitors coming out to the meetings at the beginning. One of the visitors, Delight was coming to the first three meetings with her friend. We noticed that she stopped coming. My partner and I went to visit her place and made sure that everything was all right. She said that she wanted to come back to the meetings but didn't have a way. It would be no problem for us to start giving her rides. She came back with us and I remember sitting with her when they preached about the Sabbath. I could hear her getting emotional yet at the same time I could sense a conviction being made in her heart. The night they made an appeal for baptism she walked down the aisle for baptism. There is no greater joy than seeing a person making a full comittment for Christ!

There are a couple of other stories I want to share.

Rick had been attending a church for a while but it unexpectedly closed down. It didn't move to another location. He was looking for a church family. A flyer came in the mail for the evangelistic meetings. What was there to lose? He came to almost every meeting and was the first person to make a decision for baptism at the end!

Gene had been studying the Bible with his brother and came under the conviction that Seventh-day Adventists were the only church who believed in the Sabbath and proclaimed the three angel's message. It just so happened that he came to visit the Duluth church while the meetings were going on. He talked to a couple of our Bible workers in the lobby and they asked if he was member. They soon realized it was his first time to come to an SDA church and made sure he felt welcomed. He came to the rest of the meetings. Praise God, he was baptized too! It was amazing to see God's spirit being poured out on Atlanta.

Remembering these stories is why I love evangelism. I love how it can bring a transformation to someone's life and helps them to find a new life in Christ. It also brings about revival to the church and it's members. I may go back to Atlanta next summer to be a Bible worker. I love to see people find Jesus for themselves and His message given to us in the Bible.

Kelly and I with Delight

The Duluth team

A trip to New York

2010-08-28T21:47:00.013-04:00

The last week of summer I spent some time with my Mom visiting Rochester, NY. We went to
a special dedication service of Hiram Edson's farm. It was a blessing to hear the stories of our Adventist pioneers all during the weekend.

It was also fun to spend my 21st birthday there

The Visitor's Center

People from the community have been asking what is this building about. It has given us a great opportunity to witness for our church and what we believe.

Inside the center it was exciting to look at keepsakes of Hiram Edson. The focal point of the room was a cherry table that he had built. There were also letters he had written framed on the wall.

The barn on the farm

It was good for me to be able to spend more time to learn about Adventist History. It was at this location that the key doctrines of our faith were decided upon. I knew that I was at a special and important place.

We were reminded that the lives the pioneers lived in hastening the second coming of Christ should be our model to follow today. I am glad that my mother and I were able to take this trip together. I always want to remember what our pioneers did for our church.

In honor of my Dad

2010-06-20T23:44:00.005-04:00

Today is Father's day. I thought about my dad throughout the day. It isn't the same without having him around here. There are many a time when I would like to ask a question, or seek guidance from him. I miss having the friendship that a Dad and daughter share. He was intelligent, hard working, and most importantly a godly leader in the family.

One of the happy memories I have of him was when we took a family vacation up to Niagara Falls, Canada. He was evangelistic minded and had all of my brothers distributing Spirit of prophecy paper books in the telephone booths. I was a young one, still being pushed in a stroller, yet these were some of my first memories of my dad. When I was around five or six I conducted my own musical Fourth of July program and made my dad listen to all my rehearsals and songs. He had some patience to do that. We both worked on a duet and sang a song about a Kangaroo (it was hilarious). The last years when he was working as a doctor, he was faithful to his job and his patients and co-workers loved him. I remember all his prescriptions,and papers lying on the back seat of his car. I won't forget his sense of humor and how he could make me laugh. Dad was an amazing person and things have changed since he passed away. I can't wait to spend more father-daughter moments in Heaven.

Maybe later in the summer I'll post some more pictures. I'm sharing this picture to honor my Dad.

Witnessing to others

2010-06-01T18:25:00.007-04:00

So a lot has been going on since the last time I blogged a post. The classes have been so useful and practical for my experience. We have been learning how to give Bible studies, Biblical Spirituality, and about our key Adventist doctrines.

One of the most rewarding parts of the program has been helping out with the evangelistic series at the churches, and talking to people out in the community. I love working with the visitors who come to the meetings. It has been neat to see their excitement for truth and what the Bible has to say. We've had about 10 visitors coming out regularly.

Kelly and I have been outreach partners. It hasn't always been easy knocking on doors and getting a lot of negative responses. I want to share an experience. One evening, we talked with a man who seemed to find an excuse to everything we tried to share with him. Finally, he shared that he had some bitter experiences with the churches he had been to and wanted his children to be able to know God and grow up in a Christian environment. He took one of our Bible study interest cards and was grateful for our visit when we left. It makes me think about how there are people out there in their homes who are thirsting for the truth. If more laborers would go out seeking for them than they would be won for the kingdom,

This past Sunday the Sabbath message was presented to the visitors. We prayed for them. I could see the expressions on their faces about hearing it for the first time. For some it was harder than others.

I have a week and a half left here. If there is one thing I want to take away from this program would be souls won for the kingdom. I'm excited to see the change that others can experience. I've also appreciated all the tools I've received for digging into my Bible better, giving Bible studies, and witnessing to others.

Evangelism in Georgia

2010-05-18T21:53:00.009-04:00

I've been down here in Georgia for a week and a half.

Evangelistic meetings are going on at 15 sites. I'm excited about the visitors who have been coming to the meetings at the site I am Bible working at. We had 22 visitors the first night! The sermons are on prophecy and Revelation. It's a message we need to hear for the times we live in.

Here is a picture of the team I'm with. They have been great to work with!

Blessings,

April

Summer!

2010-05-07T19:23:00.024-04:00

I want to share some pictures from the end of the semester.

Ashley, Emily, and I had breakfast together while working on a school project.

And maybe we had a little too much fun...

A group of friends put on a surprise birthday party for Bethany and Lindsey

Lindsey and Debbie water painting

Some of my classmates from this semester

Suzanne, Debbie, Ashley, and I had a girls smoothie night

I love these girls and will miss them this summer

Taking a walk on the Greenway

Last Sabbath at Southern

It has been great spending time at home this week. The first day back I was at the kitchen table eating breakfast. My Mom said, "Would you like any more strawberries or cantaloupe?" I told her no thanks, but just to hear her soothing warm voice at breakfast left me satisfied. I wasn't my usual self the first couple of days. I had hayfever and felt irritated with some allergies. Finally, I took some Claritin and it helped me feel so much better! It was nice to have some long mother- daughter talks. I miss being with her while I am school. On Friday, I drove down to see my brother Aaron at work in the conference office. We went out to eat and then went to Best Buy to check out some computers. It was simply beautiful to be with my immediate family for a week.

It was a long process to unpack everything from college. Now I am packing again to spend five weeks of my summer in the program, SEYC Summer of Evangelism. I am so excited! We will be getting some intensive Bible work training, memorizing Scriptures, and studying Bible doctrines. Pray for us as we reach out to the people of Atlanta who need to hear God's message.

I will be updating my blog while I am there.

Time with my family

2010-05-05T12:34:00.015-04:00

At the end of February I went home for the weekend to spend time with my family. Norman and Joelle were at our house for a week before they left for mission service in Trinidad. On Sabbath we drove up to Somerset, Ky. Aaron preached at the church.

On Sabbath afternoon we drove to see the Cumberland Falls. It was beautiful!

Aaron, Norman, and I

We met up with our friends Daniel and Kristina McFeeters.

The following week, Norman and Joelle came to see me and friends down in the Collegedale area. It was great to spend some last moments with them before they left. We went out to eat at PF Chang's and celebrated Joelle's grandmother's birthday.

I miss Norman and Joelle a lot. I'm glad that they are only a phone call away. They have been encouraging and supportive to me. Over Christmas break Norman and I were studying Daniel and it was fascinating to learn more about the different kingdoms. I want to study and understand more for myself and I look forward to studying more with Norman. Joelle is such a sweet sister-in-law. I love her fun and positive spirit.
May God bless them in their service.

We're almost there

2010-04-25T13:36:00.006-04:00

I'm almost done! I'll be studying and taking tests until Wednesday afternoon.

Here's a picture of my family when we were all together in February. More pictures to come soon.

Pentecost2

2010-04-05T22:34:00.003-04:00

This week at Southern Adventist University,

South East Youth Conference is hosting Pentecost 2 with speaker, Jeffrey Rosario. I have already been to the first two meetings that he spoke at. They have been excellent! I'm looking forward to hearing more about how we as Seventh-day Adventist young people need to have a revolution in our lives to stand up for God and to finish His work. I'm praying that our campus will be changed by the messages being presented and that the young people will continue to come.

Pictures from Winter Semester 2010

2010-03-18T20:40:00.014-04:00

I want to share some pictures of the semester so far.

One of the first weeks of the semester we had Martin Luther King Jr. Community Service day.
It's a great way for the school to go out in the community and help others. I went with a group to a nursing home in Ooltewah. It was a blessing to spend the day visiting and encouraging the residents. I love working with the elderly.

One of my friends, Lauren had her 20th birthday in January. It was fun to surprise her with a party.

Another evening I spent some time getting to know my Dominican Republic friends. They are amazing cooks! I learned so much from them and about their culture.

My dorm room door decorated for Valentine's Day

In February we had a Mother -Daughter banquet. I was delighted that my Mother came down to spend the day with me. The banquet was beautiful, elegant, and the food was tasty.
It was fun to meet my friends mothers too.

Christmas and GYC

2010-03-01T18:57:00.010-05:00

This year being home for Christmas was wonderful. It was great to spend time with my immediate family.

Norman and Joelle drove all the way out from California and arrived at our place on the Monday before Christmas. We spent one day at the mall and the next day the guys went golfing while the ladies stayed home cooking. On Christmas Eve we ate a delicious dinner and exchanged gifts.

Christmas Eve dinner

We played a lot of games including The Adventist Game

GYC was awesome this year! It was nice to drive up the interstate in a couple of hours to get to Louisville, Kentucky. This GYC called me to be Unashamed of the gospel. I want to stand up for what is right and not lower my standards for any reason. It's easy to go a long with what the crowd does and not take a stand. I pray that I may be unashamed of my love for Jesus.Mark Finley's seminars on the Holy Spirit were excellent. This week on Spring break I am going to take the time to catch up on the sermons I missed hearing.

Rebecca Wong, one of my close girl friends from Southern came to GYC too. It was fun to spend time together at one of the meals and hang out.

The GYC leadership team was announced on Sunday.

Aaron is the treasurer of GYC.

Snow at Southern

2010-02-02T21:03:00.004-05:00

It's hard to believe that we are half way to spring break. There has been so much going on. I would be updating my blog more except that I don't have a computer in my room and therefore I can not upload pictures. Next year that will be different.

When I go home in a couple weeks I will blog about:

President's Day

Weekend at Tara's in Georgia

East Ridge evangelistic series

and maybe more

Last weekend we got some snow at Southern.

It was beautiful!

This week in class

2010-01-15T13:36:00.005-05:00

This week in my Social Welfare class we were talking about poverty in America. The statistics are growing. It's a much needed area of help that not many people know about. There are about 37 million people in America who live in poverty. How sad. I think to myself how many times have I taken for granted what I have. I have a warm place to sleep in, nutritious food to eat, and a church where I can fellowship. These people are struggling to make it from one month to the next. I know that in my life work I want to be more a part of helping in projects to benefit the poor.

Last semester, a new project West Side for Jesus started at Southern. I went the first time they went out and didn't do much about it after that. This semester I have thought about it more and am excited about being a part of the project. West Side for Jesus is a ministry that helps people who are living in poverty in downtown Chattanooga. They have a children' s and prayer ministry, GED tutoring, and Bible studies. Tomorrow, I am planning on going down and giving Bible studies to people there. These people do not have much at all. I'm looking forward to using my Social work skills to reach these people for the kingdom.

A lot has been happening since I returned to college this semester. I want to blog about Christmas break and GYC. I'm trying to find a way to upload a few pictures.

I will definately be blogging more often, probably every other week. Stay tuned!

My Sophomore year at college

2009-10-22T15:46:00.026-04:00

This semester has flown by quickly. I've posted some pictures of what has been going on.
I hope you enjoy!

My 20th birthday

2009-08-24T22:09:00.025-04:00

I had a wonderful 20th birthday. I am so thankful for my family and friends who made it a special day.

The day before my birthday, Stephen came to see me.

On the day of my birthday I we ate tofu cheesecake for lunch.

It was so yummy!

In the evening we spent time sight seeing in downtown Nashville.

The state capitol

Then, we went to the Bicentennial State Mall Park

They had a map of Tennessee engraved on the ground.

It was so neat!

The sunset

We went to the old spaghetti factory for supper.

They have some amazing pasta dishes.

My birthday presents

My last day to be 19 on the 19th of August

2009-08-19T22:30:00.003-04:00

Today is the last day for me to be 19 on the 19th of August. I thank God for all the many good years He is given me. This past year has brought a lot of change with my first year at college. I can't believe I am turning 20!
I'll post in a couple days what I did for my birthday.

Visitors

2009-07-30T16:25:00.009-04:00

Last week my brother was playing the piano and I was singing along with him, but I stopped in the middle of a sentence to discover there were some roosters in our frontyard. I immediately grabbed my camera and took some pictures. They came from our neighbor's yard. It was quite amusing!

We have some hay in front of our porch because we recently got our porch posts replaced.

They went to our backyard too.

A wedding

2009-07-20T19:21:00.015-04:00

This past weekend it was nice to go to a lovely wedding down in the Chattanooga area. I really enjoyed catching up with my Southern friends on Sunday. I am definately looking forward to this upcoming school year, but I am not complaining about the days I have off now.

It was nice to spend some time with my friend Heather again. She was such
a blessing to me this past school year. We had Bible memorization and Bible study groups together. She also drove me to church several times. I value her friendship and I am excited to see how the Lord is now leading in her life since she graduated from nursing.

Mom and I stopped my a reststop on the way back home from the wedding. It was refreshing to walk in the beautiful weather outside.

Summer school is over! .... The Fourth of July at the McNulty's home

2009-07-05T12:20:00.016-04:00

It is already July 5. In the month of June I was abe to complete three hours of General Psychology at my community college. It was an interesting class, and my days were filled with studying. I finished it on July 2!

These are some photos from happy times at home during June. Ranger and I have had a lot of bonding time this month.
The petunias are blossoming beautifully on our front porch.

Yesterday, we had a picnic on the back porch for the Fourth of July.

My Grandma, Mom, brothers, and uncles were there.

My wonderful grandma and I

After the meal, we put on a musical concert for Grandma.

Aaron and Uncle Albert played a trombone duet.

Stephen played the piano, and then I sang some patriotic songs.

My mother and I

O beautiful for spacious skies, For amber waves of grain For purple mountain majesties Above the fruited plain America! America! God shed your grace on thee, And crown thy good with brotherhood From sea to shining sea.O beautiful for patriot dream That sees beyond the years Thine alabaster cities glean Undimmed by human tears America! America! God shed your grace on thee And crown thy good with brotherhood From sea to shining sea.- (Author Unknown)

My first year of college is over

2009-05-07T14:24:00.028-04:00

I am back home already on my summer break! It's hard to believe that a year of college has happened since my graduation last year. In fact, next weekend is graduation at Highland Academy. I have learned so much in this one school year, and have made many happy memories. It's been a while since I updated my blog. I want to share some pictures from my second semester.

Maureen's birthday party. It has been a true joy to become friends with Christina and Maureen this year.

This was how our bulletin board was decorated in the our hall in the girl's dorm this semester.

Winter at Southern

In April we spent an afternoon with friends singing songs on the guitar, and having a Bible study. It was a blessing!

The night before Christine left school we ate tortillas in the gazebo and had some fun!

Christina and I

Heather and I( sorry about the pic uploading so small!)

My suitemates, roommate, and I went to Coolidge park at the end of the year to pictures. It was so special to spend time with them.

The weekend of graduation was a great time to spend time with friends. I was able to spend more time getting to know my friends, Rebecca and Suzzanne. On Sabbath afternoon we went to the archeological museum.

Graduation was held in the Chattanooga Convention center this because there are so many graduates that the gym cannot hold everyone.

Bekah

Lorrie

Steve

Lindsay

Debbie and I

Sarah

Sarah and I

I know that I am going to miss the graduates next year. Yet, I am very happy for them as they continue with their education at the graduate or medical school, or start working. My plans for the summer is to get a class done at my community college, spend time with familiy exploring the Nashville area, and get some projects done around the house. I am happy to have some time off. Have a great summer everyone! I will be updating my blog more often. Stay tuned.

Christmas break

2009-01-05T13:47:00.021-05:00

Happy New Year to all! I have returned to college and I am in my first day of classes.
I would like to say that I enjoy reading blogs and I would encourage everyone to keep writing and posting pictures because we enjoy what you have to share. I like to update mine twice a month.
Christmas break was great. I got to spend a lot of time with my close family, and relax. The first week I did a lot of cooking, then the second week I rested.

Aunt Mary came to see us the first week of my break. It was so nice to spend time with her. We went to see Trinity Broadcasting lights on Monday. Then, on Tuesday we walked around Opryland Hotel and ate a tasty lunch.

We enjoyed eating vegeburgers, and for dessert we treated ourselves to cheesecake and sorbet.

Christmas dinner

Uncle Dave, Uncle Albert, Aaron, and Stephen

3 generations: my grandmother, mother, and I

Last Wednesday, on New Year's eve the Portland church had an agape supper. It was so special. We sang christmas hymns, our Pastor gave a devotional thought, there were testimonies, and we ate bread, nuts, fruit, and had grape juice. At the end we had an communion service. It was a nice way to start off the year.

Thanksgiving break

2008-12-03T21:16:00.011-05:00

It was nice to be home for Thanksgiving and spend some good time with my family. I arrived home on Tuesday night. On Wednesday, I enjoyed the day relaxing and taking time away from my studies. Aaron and I drove up to Wal- Mart to get some supplies for the meal.

On Thursday, I was really busy cooking in the kitchen making potato dishes, and pies.

We enjoyed the company of Uncle Albert, and Uncle Dave with us.

In the evening we enjoyed spending time with our cousins, JD, Jenny, Ellie, Owen, and Jonah.
We have a dog, Ranger and Uncle Dave brought his dog and they got into a fight under the table while we were eating. It was quite the entertainment!

Ellie, Owen, Jonah, and I

After enjoying a meal of pie with our cousins we went over to JD and Jenny's and saw the renovations they have done to their house. It looks really nice!

The hall that leads into in the family room

The family room

I'm thankful for...

2008-11-26T20:53:00.009-05:00

Since it is Thanksgiving time I am going to share what I am thankful for. This year has been amazing and I am enjoying my experience at Southern. I have met so many new people. I am thankful for the godly friends I have, who are like-minded. I have an awesome roommate, who is so much fun and has the same values as I have. Recently, I am excited about the doors God has opened in my life. I have 4 Bible study groups I am a part of. This is more than I could of ever hoped for! I am giving a Bible study to a student on campus, and my Bible workers club partner has a Bible study contact too, and I attend the study.At the end of the week I meet with two other girls to memorize scripture. On Friday nights, I go to my Aunt's house to study about Last day events in the Bible. I could not be more happy about what God has opened for me this year.

To update on what has been happening in my college experience. A couple of weeks ago, Christine and I had a pasta dinner with our suitmates. It was fun!

Last Sabbath, a group of students went down to Patten towers to conduct a Thanksgiving church service and give a dinner to the residents there.

Then on Saturday night, we went over to our friends' apartment to eat fruit sauce on toast,
socialize with friends, and sing hymns.

Lindsey, Christine, and Christy

Heather, Debbie, and I

Now, I am home on Thanksgiving break. So far I have just enjoyed relaxing and spending time with my family. The end of this semester is going to be quite intense with some more tests, and ending it off with exams. I am going to spend a couple of days studying during break to help prepare myself for when I return back to college. Please keep me in your prayers as I am studying A & P. I know that the Lord will help me.

Fall at Southern

2008-11-01T20:08:00.015-04:00

Fall at Southern has been beautiful. Last Sunday, Christine and I did a fall photoshoot. We had a lot of fun with it.

On Friday, I went to job shadow a physical therapist and that was interesting. Today, was one of our best days at Southern. We went to the North River church, and then we went to a Asian fellowship dinner at the Ooltewah church for missionaries who have served in Asia. The food was amazing! I had two plates. Then, after the meal there were some testimonies. We returned to Southern's campus to see the Mission Expo. There were several booths, where Southern students were encouraging others on mission work. I finished my Sabbath by resting.

I am still trying to find what God's will is for my life. I was praying about it over last summer, and felt like going into the Allied health field- such as occupational therapy would be a good fit for me. I also felt like the Lord was leading me into being an OT, and I still feel that way.I want to make a difference in people's lives, and share Jesus with them. I also want to be in something in the medical field.This weekend, we could really see the Lord working. I could see one door opening after another for my roommate, Christine. I am excited and happy for her and I'll let you read her testimony at http://www.christinerreynolds.blogspot.com/
Please keep me in your prayers as I am making important decisions for my future.

Going back home for midterm break

2008-10-20T02:07:00.011-04:00

It was nice to be able to go back home this past weekend after a very busy first half of my first semester. I was able to get in some good sleep, cook and bake, and spend time great time with family. On Friday, I had quite the day. I drove out to Cottontown to eat lunch with my grandmother. She is such a special lady, and I was happy to spend time with her. Then, I drove over to Gallatin and waited in a line for over thirty minutes to vote in the Presidential election.There was a student from Southern a couple of people ahead of me, who I had never met. It really is a small world!This took a lot of time out of my day, but it was well worth it. I think that in this election it is important to vote for the President, with all of the economic crises going on. I felt really good after I cast my ballot! My first time to be able to vote in the Presidential election!

I had the privilege of hearing Aaron preach in the Gallatin church on Sabbath. I was proud of him. He gave a powerful sermon on the Elijah message. I was so glad I could be there!

On Friday afternoon I made apple pie for supper. Aaron with the food.

I enjoyed my slice of apple pie.

The leaves are starting to change here in Tennessee.

Stephen came to see me on Sabbath afternoon. We had a nice walk through the crisp air and took some pictures.

Now I am back at college with lots of hours of studying to do before this semester is over!

SEYC 2008, Patten towers, and Intent meetings with Peter Gregory

2008-10-04T19:54:00.008-04:00

September is already over with! I feel like my first semester of college is flying by!My schedule for classes is very busy, and yet my classes are quite interesting. On the third weekend of September my family Mom, Norman, and Aaron came to see me at SEYC. It was so special to have them there with me at college. I appreciated their support and it was very nice of Norman to come out of his way to see me in college. I also enjoyed seeing Tim and Sunny. SEYC was great with powerful messages from Ivor Myers at the evening meetings, and the seminars were all packed. I attended last year and it was not as packed as this year!

After lunch on Sabbath Mom, Norman, Christine, and I took a walk on Southern's promenade

The McNulty family with Tim and Sunny at the Audioverse. I know that SEYC appreciated Audioverse recording the sermons and seminars.

One of the ministries I signed up for was the Patten Towers. I've heard about the project, and I finally was able to go and see for myself what it was like. I was so blessed by going. The people who live there need encouragement and friends like students from Southern. We knocked on their doors and invited them to Patten church, then after the church service we served them a Patluck meal of haystacks. It was fun to fellowship with them, and let them know that we really care about them.

The students who lead out in song service

This week was probably one of my most stressful weeks. I stayed up very late a couple of nights trying to get homework, and papers done. I love college life, but the classes and homework can be tiresome. By thursday, I was so exhausted that when my alarm went off at 6:30 a.m. I immediately went back to sleep and woke up again at 7:45. My College Comp 101 class was at 8:00 and it takes me 5 minutes to get there! So I franctically, put my clothes on and dashed over to Miller Hall. When I arrived there my professor wasn't there yet, and my classmates were waiting in the hall. Phew, What a relief! On Friday, it was a relaxing and fun catching up on errands I don't have time to do during the week and grocery shopping at the Village Market.

What really made this week great was Peter Gregory's Intent meetings for Week of Prayer. It has been such a positive influence on this campus. In the past the speakers have been average, and the attendence reflected that. This year they had seating for 800, and over a 1000 have been showing up every night. The students don't have to come, but I know there were several searching for more and realizing that the Word of God can be preached and digged into deeper.

His message on Friday night was powerful, and many came forward for the altar call. I went to the North River church today, expecting the sermon to be preached from one of the preachers. Surprisingly, Peter Gregory gave it and it was awesome! I was blessed by it. I wrote down notes, and you can ask me later about more details. I am thankful to have a wonderful church to go to where I have found friends that are like minded, and involved in evangelistic opportunities.

I am also apart of the Bible Workers Club, and they invited Peter Gregory to teach us on how to give a Bible study. He spoke in the student center. Wow, I have never heard a such a presentation. He told that we need to know how the relate to the person we are working with, and their personality in order to help them to make decisions throughout the Bible studies. He used the chapter of John 4, where Jesus talked to the Samaritan woman and how he was able to reach to her relating this to when we give Bible studies. I was learned a lot from Peter Gregory this week.

Thus, a new week is about to begin. I hope everyone is doing well, and please keep me in your prayers as I have a lot ahead of me.

Christine's 18th birthday party

2008-09-18T18:05:00.004-04:00

My roommate and I have had so much fun this year. She is a awesome friend of mine. We laugh a lot, talk about many things, and have so much in common in values.I am so thankful to have her a roommate. Last Sunday was her 18th birthday. I planned a birthday party with the help of friends. I have never pulled a surprise birthday party before, so I was a little nervous on how it would turn out. On Friday afternoon, I managed to sneak out of the girl's dorm. I went shopping at Wal-Mart for the birthday party with the help of my friend, Marjorie. We bought streamers, cups, plates, confetti, and things that would make a birthday party fun! On Saturday night, I had Debbie take her on a walk and at the end of the walk they were outside the student center at the birthday party.Christine was so surprised!There were 8 girls, and we had a great time! We ate strawberry rhubarb pie, and drank apple juice.
Here is the table where we had the party.

All of our close friends who came.

Happy Birthday Christine!

My 19th birthday

2008-08-26T19:08:00.013-04:00

It's hard to believe that I am now 19! Last Wednesday was my birthday. I woke up bright and early, and Christine sang happy birthday to me while I was half awake and feeling groggy. Then, I took my final for my class and afterwards my Highland friends and I went out and celebrated the completion of our class. We talked for two hours reminiscing Highland stories.
I came back and ate with my close friends at the cafeteria. This was the first day I bought a dessert. Christine and I bought blueberry shortcake. Our friends Laurel, Debbie, and Joel were there.

In the afternoon, Christine and I walked two miles on the Greenway to go shopping in Ooltewah. We went to a clothing store, and we were so thirsty we drank fruit juices in a shop. We had fun even though it was hot!

I received nice phone calls from family and opened cards and presents that came in the mail in the evening.

This past weekend I went back home. Mom made a special birthday lunch. The menu was lasagne and blueberry pie.

Stephen and I

Aaron and Ranger

On Saturday night I opened my birthday presents.

Mom and I

Thank you to everyone who called or remembered me. I'm grateful for another year of life!

A new phase of my life....college!

2008-08-18T18:29:00.016-04:00

Hello everyone, I am here at college and loving it! This blog post will have more details on what has been going on in my life. As I said in the previous post, we really enjoyed our vacation to California, we flew back on a Tuesday and I moved to college on Sunday! We came back and there was busy activity going on in the McNulty's house. I went shopping all day Thursday, packed most of Friday and Saturday night and left early Sunday morning to get to Southern's registration. Honestly, I was nervous and not completely happy about my summer getting cut short but I knew that I needed to get college hours done out of the way at Smart Start. On Sunday afternoon, July 28 I moved into my dorm room and met my roommate, Christine Reynolds for the first time! It was actually pretty neat how we met. I came into the girl's dorm lobby and told the girl at the front desk who I was, Christine was in the girls dorm mail room and heard me say," McNulty", and she came running out with her Mom and sister and we met for the first time. I am so thankful to have a godly roommate. I really prayed that God would lead me to the right one and Christine and I starting e-mailing and knew we had a lot in common. It took me most of Sunday afternoon and evening to get moved into my room, and figure out where to put all of my little things but by Sunday night at 9 or 10 I was settled!
Monday....
Our first day of college! We went to breakfast in cafeteria bright and early at 7:00. Afterwards, we walked to class. I took Life and Teachings from Dr. Jud Lake. The class has been such a blessing to me, we have studied in detail about Jesus life, the history behind each Gospel writer and read 48 chapters out of the Desire of Ages and the Gospels. It's been intense, but it was a good class to transition into college. During the days of the week, we had all of these convocation meetings and orientation we were required to go to for credit. Christine was not with me my first weekend, but I was making new friends. I spent my first weekend with my suitemates, who are really nice. We went to the Collegedale University church, and honestly none of us were impressed. They are starting a new student led service and the music is not great! The traditional service is at 10:15, so if I have to go to Collegedale church that is the service I would go to. At collegedale, I really don't feel that my prescence makes an impact and no one would know that I was even there. For lunch, Aunt Elizabeth invited me to her house and it made me feel at home to go to her house my first weekend. On Saturday evening, I had a lot of fun with my suitemates. We made spaghetti in our kitchenette down the hall, and went shopping at Wal-mart 5 minutes away.

Second week of college!
Sunday was a little long for me, I was a little lonely but I met up with my Highland friend, Kendra and we walked most of the Greenway that leads to Ooltewah and starts in Collegedale under the railroad tracks. Christine came back on Monday. On Tuesday we had a major fair in the dining hall to see what all of the departments on campus have to offer. I went to the nursing one, and there were so many girls interested in what the nursing professors had to say. The second week was usual with making new friends, having embarassing moments, and loving college life!
We decided we wanted to go to the North River church on Sabbath. We called up the Reynolds and they drove us there. It's a good little drive, 30 minutes away on the other side of Chattanooga near the walking bridge. I really like the church it's traditional, conservative, a lot of young people, and I feel like I am apart of a small church family. We ate lunch with a good friend ours,Debbie Beihl and afterwards went to the nearby neighborhoods and conducted health surveys. On Sabbath evening, as the sunset went down Debbie took us on a walk doing the loop around Collegedale academy and the student park. When Sabbath was over we had a fun talk in our dorm room. Christine and I don't have cars down here, so we are dependent on other people. We assumed that Debbie had a car. So we were talking, and thought maybe we could go to the mall in Hamilton place. Debbie went back to her room to get her purse, and we all got to the girl's dorm lobby and discovered no one had a car! It was so funny!! We were laughing so hard. So we went exploring around campus and found a skunk, spiderweb, and listened to the bugs chirping in the woods. We had fun anyways!

3rd week...
By the third week, we were well into our college routine.On Sunday, we studied hard for our class and decided that we should take pictures of our college experience. So Christine and I did our summer photoshoot around campus, and I think you'll enjoy the pictures below.At the end of the week we celebrated the completion of our week of classes by eating ice cream with Laurel at the window overlooking campus. Then, on Friday Christine and I went to Olive Garden with her Aunt Sally which was a treat! Afterwards we walked around the mall for two hours. On Sabbath, Christine went to North River and I went with a couple of friends from Highland to the Chattanooga First church. I really like that church too, it has high quality music with an organist, men's choir, and we sang several hymns. Sabbath afternoon was relaxing for me, I took a nap, visited with a couple of girlfriends and made some phone calls to my family.
4th week....
We slept in and felt great on Sunday morning! Laurel had Christine, Josee (our suitemate), and I over to her house for a pancake breakfast. It was so delicious! We had fresh peaches, nuts, maple syrup, and bagels to go along with it. The rest of the day I did my laundry, talked to Mom, and then studied and wrote a paper. We went to the gym and went swimming for an hour with Christine, Laurel, and Josee. On Monday and Tuesday I had my last classes of my Life and Teachings of Jesus.On Monday night, we had a orientation meeting and Christine and I are tired of dating tips! They like to advertise marriage down here. They also had refreshments outside of popcorn and slushies and packets on how to succeed in college. There were bubbles in the packet, and when Christine and I returned to our room we blew bubbles at each other. On Wednesday, I turned 19! I will write about my birthday on the next post. On Thursday, I stayed around Southern to do errands, and finalize classes.The classes I am taking are: Intro to Health Professions, Developmental Pyschology, College Comp 101, Southern Connections, Intro to Word, A & P, A& P lab, and Voice lessons. Then, on Friday I rode back with a couple of Highland friends and happily returned to my home in the afternoon!
I am thankful and feel that is a privilege to be at Southern Adventist University. I love living here.I know that the Lord has led me to be at Southern, and I am excited about the rest of the school year!

Debbie, Christine, and I at the North River church

Christine and I did a summer photoshoot one Sunday afternoon.

My desk that has my computer, and family pictures on my bulletin board.

My bed on the far right.

Tim and Sunny's wedding/ California trip

2008-08-01T09:50:00.021-04:00

The highlight of my summer was going out to California for Tim and Sunny's wedding, and to see Norman and Joelle. Our family thinks a lot of Tim , and we didn't want to miss his wedding. He is a great friend to Norman, and we have enjoyed all of the times we we have spent with him. I remember meeting him when he was a Senior at Southern, and Norman was a Junior. We appreciate how Tim and Norman are leaders out in Loma Linda and their involvement with spiritual activities. We are really happy for Tim and Sunny, and enjoyed every minute of the wedding.

We arrived in Loma Linda on Thursday, and went to Tim and Sunny's wedding shower Thursday night. On Friday we went out to eat at the Loma Linda University Hospital's cafeteria. I have an interest in the medical field, and I like hospitals. It was neat to see doctor's and nurse's walking around.
Stephen and I

On Friday night, Joelle fixed us a wonderful supper.

It was nice to spend time together as a family.

On Sabbath we went to Advent Hope. It has really grown since I have last been there! Norman pointing out the prophecies

It worked out really nice that Norman's birthday was the day before the wedding. It was an annual tradition at our home to have lasagne, and blueberry pie. We had the same menu out there, and it was delicious!

Sabbath afternoon

Before the wedding began, we enjoyed the music by the string quartet.

Tim and Sunny during their vows.

Mom and I after the wedding. It was a beautiful wedding!

The McNulty family on the back porch.

Sunday evening, Mom and I took a walk outside. I love the palm trees out there!

On that walk, I discovered beautiful flowers. Here is my favorite one!

On Monday, Norman drove us to the Santa Monica beach. That was really fun! We enjoyed spending time together on our last day. While we were on the pier over the ocean we watched the boats in the ocean, the planes flying out of LAX, and the waves rolling in.

I love California and seeing the palm trees and the ocean was awesome! It was great to spend time with family, and to go to Tim and Sunny's wedding. I have a video clip of the trip, but I can't get it to upload correctly here at college. I will put it up when I go home in a few weeks.

Fourth of July, summer activites

2008-07-25T11:12:00.012-04:00

I've had a great summer and it's all coming to an end. Sunday I am leaving for college. The hightlight of my summer was going to California for Tim and Sunny's wedding, and seeing Norman and Joelle was great! I will write about that in my next blog post. I just wanted to share what we've done this summer. The end of June we went to Kyle and Heidi (Whitehead) Littell's wedding at Indian Creek Camp. It was a nice wedding, and we saw a lot of our Highland friend's

The day before the Fourth of July, Aaron took me to Kenny Perry's and I played a little golf with him. I'm trying to learn, but I need more practice.He played nine holes. At the bottom of this post, you can see a video.

The fourth of July was a fun time for our family. Stephen , Uncle Dave, and Grandma came and joined Mom, Aaron, and I for our dinner. We had potato salad, baked beans, hot dogs, and blueberry pie.

This summer I have enjoyed being outdoors with my dog, Ranger. She is full of energy, and fun to be with. She has a gentle side to her that I appreciate.

Goldie and Ranger

2008-06-22T16:09:00.008-04:00

This past week was nice. Stephen came on Wednesday to see us and it was great seeing him.He enjoys playing the piano, so I sang along or played my violin with what he was playing. Stephen has a new golden retriever, Goldie. He has a lot of energy, and is making friends with our dog Ranger. Ranger tends to be more gentle, and calm. I am thankful we have Ranger ,she's been a nice addition to the family. We also went out to the park in Portland and played tennis. If you haven't heard our pastor of the Portland church just retired. Right now we are praying everyday that God will bring us a new pastor with a passion for evangelism, and can bring more members to our church. Here are some pictures from this past week.

It's summer!

Ranger(on the left), Goldie (right)

Stephen on our front porch

Last evening we had a nice sunset to end the Sabbath. I did edit this picture so you could see the colors better.

My summer

2008-06-15T22:19:00.003-04:00

My summer so far has been quite wonderful. Already 4 weeks have gone by since I graduated, and I really miss my friends and social life. This summer I'm doing projects that I have always wanted to do but just didn't have time. I have been making some new recipes ( our refrigerator was packed last week after grocery shopping!), scrapbooking: I am putting together a scrapbook of my favorite academy memories, reading: I love to read! I've been reading the latest Adventist Review's and Mission Miracles by David Gates, and I have been taking care of my Grandma by giving her a daily shot.Please keep me in your prayers about what I should do for my career.
In honor of father's day. I want to share a picture of my father on here. I have missed him a lot this year. I wished I could talk to him, and he could see all of us children grown up. One day very soon we will be reunited with him! I'd like to do a post later as a tribute to him.

Graduation pictures,videos

2008-06-05T11:44:00.017-04:00

These are my favorite graduation pictures. I also added a couple of videos.I will never forget this wonderful weekend. Joelle did a great job taking these. Enjoy!

Friday night before we head over to the church

The family waiting for the graduates to march down

I sang "DayStar"

Pastor David Hartman preached a powerful message

Norman,Joelle,and I at home Friday night

Sabbath the Portland church gave me a graduation dinner. It was really nice. Stephen and I.

Aaron and I

Sunday was the big day! Aunt Mary and I, minutes before I march down. The Class of 2008

Briana and I after receiving our diplomas!

The McNulty family

Mom and I

We at very good food at Maggiano's afterwards. Had a great time!

I wish I could go back to this weekend. I kept replaying the weekends activities over and over again in my mind.It was great to spend a lot time with my family. They were all supportive. I really appreciate everything they do for me.

Graduation!

2008-05-21T18:44:00.005-04:00

A lot has happened since I last posted. I've graduated from academy! I am excited about that. Last weekend was a great weekend for our family.It was really nice to have Norman, Joelle, and Aunt Mary with us. It meant a lot to to have them here for this once in a lifetime occasion. We had a lot of good bonding family time. I am really happy to have graduated from Highland. I was ready for a change. I will miss the memories and friends I made there. Sunday we went out to eat at Maggiono's with everyone in our family, and that was so much fun! It was sad to say goodbye to Norman and Joelle, and Aunt Mary. We also went to Centennial Park, and drove through Bell Meade. When I came home I started crying because our house was empty and I realized I wouldn't be seeing my friends for a while. Mrs. Hartman my third and fourth grade teacher wanted to treat all of her students(there were 8 of us) to Sonic last night. So I got to see my close friends again! It was fun talking about funny stories that happened back then. Then, she wrote all of us a letter about the memories she had of us. Thanks to Aaron I now have a digital camera! It will be a lot easier for me to take pictures, and share them with you. So these are my the pictures I have taken since graduation. Stay tuned later for my graduation pictures

Some roses have bloomed in front of the McNulty's house

We've gone to school together since 4th grade. I'm going to miss them.

Candace & I

Costa Rica mission trip

2008-05-04T20:35:00.013-04:00

I had a wonderful mission trip experience. I was nervous about leaving the States, and flying into another country. I discoverd Costa Rica is absolutely beautiful, the people are very warm and friendly, and there is good little group of Seventh-day Adventists in the village of Chitaria

The first Monday night we started our evangelistic series at their church. David Garner and I both preached on salvation.

During the week we built a church that they really needed, and conducted a VBS at the local school. I fell in love with the children. I wish I could of communicated with them better, since I don't know Spanish but I did use what I do know. They would laugh at the way I would pronouce Spanish words, and I would laugh with them

These were the sweetest girls, and I had fun working with them. I helped out in crafts.

Carlie, the pastor's daughter

On our first day off from work, we drove to the Caribbean. There was some construction going on the road, so we drank out of coconuts while we waited.

The people were very grateful to us for building them a church, and were sad when we left.
After we finished building the church, we took 3 vacation days to go to the tourist city of Jaco. Here is the restaurant at the hotel we stayed at.

We ate some delicious food there. In this picture I am eating with my friends,Ben and Nefty.

Our last vacation day, I relaxed by the pool. This was the gorgeous view I had of the palm trees.

With the Weitzel's

The beach at Jaco

Before we went to the village of Chitaria, the Seventh-day Adventist's there met on a cement square slab, with a roof held by poles. There were no walls. Our class put up all the outer walls, and even put up 2 inner walls for the pastor's study, bathroom, and classrooms. We became attached the church people there, and it was sad to leave them. We know that one day very soon we will be reunited with them in Heaven. I am thankful I had the opportunity to go on the mission trip.

Happy Sabbath!

2008-05-02T20:11:00.004-04:00

Happy Sabbath everyone! I'm sorry it's been so long since I updated. A lot has happened, with traveling to Costa Rica and now I am very busy finishing up my Senior year. On Sunday, I will tell you all about my trip, and put up some pictures. Have a refreshing Sabbath!

The gorgeous beach in Jaco, Costa Rica.

I have my driver's license!

2008-04-05T23:50:00.002-04:00

Friday was a good day. I woke up, and it was raining hard outside. A week before I had made a road test appointment to get my driver's license. During the week, I heard it was going to rain hard on Friday. Another day I wouldn't be able to take it. I was disappointed, because I am leaving on mission trip for two weeks on Sunday and once I come back ,graduation will come very quickly. But, God knew that Friday was the day I needed to go. I told Mom that it probably wouldn't work out. She urged to see if the rain stopped, and called around 10:30. She called, and they said they were still giving tests! So I left work at 11:00, and nervously went down to the Gallatin drivers license station. We went in and saw a sign that said, "All roads are canceled due to the bad weather." I thought" Oh, well, I guess it's not meant to be." Mom still persisted in asking them when they would give road tests. They said that the sign on the door was a mistake, and they would give me my test. A nice lady gave it to me, and after 5 minutes of driving, I PASSED!!!! I am really happy, because now I am independent to drive legally anywhere. This has been a burden on my heart the past few months. People in general have asked me "Do you have your license?", and I would have to answer and say I didn't. Aaron really wanted me to go take it as well. The Lord has relieved it from me. Last week, I prayed to Lord about the situation and he gave me this text in the Bible, "Wait on the Lord: be of good courage and He shall strengthen thine heart:wait I say, on the Lord." Psalm 27:14 I am very thankful for His goodness He gives me everyday.
I am leaving on mission trip at 3 in the morning tomorrow. Please pray for our class.

Senior lifeskills class

2008-03-23T18:18:00.010-04:00

Okay, so I was proposed to. But, don't get scared.....it is for my Senior lifeskills class. Every year the Seniors have to pretend they are getting married to someone else, and we study about marriage. Right now we are in the engaged stage. Everybody had their own engagement story. Mine was pretty good, although I expect a lot more when the real thing happens. I was working in the business office, and a fellow classmate came in to pay for their graduation cap and gown. Then,after that was done there was some realy silence. I knew something was going to happen."Will you Marry me?, he asked. I said yes, it was kind of awkward. He also gave me a beautiful bouquet of flowers, and a vase to go with it.This person has been a close friend of mine, but nothing more than a friend. I am happy to say I have made it through high school without a boyfriend, and I think that is a real accomplishment. I'm saving my time and energy for the one who I will marry, not for someone who I know I would soon break up with with. High school, in my opinion is not a good time to date. It is good time for friendships.The reasons, I didn't date was because I was focused on getting good grades in my classes, and there is a lot of immaturity in academy, and not everybody holds the same values and standards that I have. Some of my friends who have dated and broken up with their boy friends, now carry guilt and hurt from their relationships. They said," Now I have lost my best friend." I know I am not ready to get married now, I need 4 or 5 more years.I am looking forward to my real wedding day, when I will marry the right person that God brings into my life. May you have a blessed week!

Snow!

2008-03-08T19:37:00.006-05:00

I have a lot of updating to do, it's been too long! Here is a picture of me before I endeavored to go snow skiing with my friends

When I returned it was Aaron's birthday weekend .His birthday is February 1.Happy Birthday Aaron! God has blessed him with 25 years of life.

On a different note we got 2 inches of snow today, it actually snowed last night. We woke up and were unable to go to church because the roads were icy. We watched 3ABN and saw the Sacramento church Sabbath school, and a rerun of ASI in 2005. Tomorrow I plan on sledding on our backyard hill. I used to do it a lot when I was younger. We would get snow more often too. So I am excited about that. Just to refresh some old memories here is Stephen sledding down our side hill.

The four McNulty children went sledding one day.

(Left to right:Aaron, Norman, Stephen, and April)

And graduation is coming in 2 and a half months! Yay! I am ready for a change but at the same time I am a little nervous transitioning into college. Please pray for me as I set to accomplish some tasks before I graduate!

Edited: I didn't get to go sledding, the snow melted Sunday morning.

SEYC,National Honors Society, and music tour

2008-02-03T18:35:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I safely returned home. It is really nice to be back in my own home, and bed. We had a successful music tour, we did 14 concerts! We went to Snowshoe mountain, in West Virginia and I learned how to ski. It is a lot harder than I had expected. It was fun, but not so fun when I fell down. Also, two weeks ago Aaron and I went to SEYC at Southern. We gained such a blessing from it, it was great to hang out with Tim, Sunny, and Adrian. Since I didn't go to GYC, this was a treat. We saw a lot of other people we knew as well. I'm looking forward to going there next year! I was talking to a girl that is apart of the Bible workers club. I would like to join that, and also there is a new church plant in downtown chattanooga led out by SEYC students that I would like to attend. Then, the same weekend I had to help put on the National Honor's Society induction and banquet. It was a bit stressful, but it turned out really nice. Enjoy the pictures below.

A view of the mountains at Snowshoe

National Honor Society officers 2007-2008

Candace(Pastor),David (Secretary), April( President)

My role as president during the induction was to read the NHS Pledge, with the new inductees repeating after me, and then I announced their names as they received their certificates.

Our NHS banquet's theme was chinese. It looked really nice!

This the table I was at with my friends.

NHS inductees, and current members for 2007-2008.

Leaving for Eastern KY, and West Virginia

2008-01-25T13:13:00.000-05:00

So I really wanted to do a post on last weekend with SEYC, and National Honor's Society. But, I am leaving in 45 minutes to go on music tour to Eastern ky, and West Virginia. We are going skiing! I will attempt to do that for the first time. So please pray for me that I won't get hurt. I'll update you when I return.

Aaron's quartet

2008-01-15T18:25:00.000-05:00

So what we did last weekend. I helped out with the kindergarten division at my church by playing the piano. I really enjoyed, and I loved seeing the little children. Maybe, I should reconsider my plans and take elementary education. Aaron is in a men's quartet called Victory's Voices. They did a wonderful concert at the Hendersonville church. My favorite song they did was "O When Shall I See Jesus", and they did others like "There is a Quiet Place," "I Lay my Sins on Jesus," and "I heard the Voice of Jesus say" Here are a couple pictures to share. Next week, I have a special post so stay tuned.

Aaron enjoys visiting with the members of the church after the peformance.

There you have it. Victory's Voices, they have great harmony. I think they need to do a cd. They are only 5 months old. Aaron and I are going to SEYC this weekend at Southern! So I am excited! Since I didn't get to go to GYC. Have a nice rest of the week!

A New Year-2008

2008-01-04T22:05:00.000-05:00

As I reflect on the past year, I think of how it has been one of the best years in my life! The Lord has been very good to me and has given me the opportunity to be apart of the program Youth for Jesus. It really changed my life, and I now have a vision to do Bible work in the future when I'm done with school. Then, when that was all over I came back home for a couple of days and repacked my suitcases to go to Norman and Joelle's wedding. What a tremendous day that was, and on the ride home with the rest of my immediate family- I remembered Stephen and Aaron saying that was one of the best days we had for our family. We are very happy to have Joelle apart of our family. I am also thankful that I completed another semester of school, and only have 5 months of school till I graduate! You are all invited by the way! I also think of the new goals that I have set for myself for the upcoming year and hope I will be able to accomplish them. Also, I pray that God will lead me into the career that will best serve him, and fit my personality. I'm looking forward to another year. May we finish the work so we can draw closer to His soon return!

Pictures from Senior Recognition, Christmas banquet

2007-12-18T17:22:00.000-05:00

I am officially done with my 1st semester of my Senior year! Can you believe it? I only have one more semester of academy. Yay! So now I am home, there is much to be done. I love the holidays. First of all, I need to update my blog. Finally, I have my Senior Recognition pictures devloped, and some of my christmas banquet pictures.

Aunt Mary traveled all the way from Austin, Texas for this special occasion. I appreciated her coming out!

Stephen and I had some good bonding time with the family on our couches

Mom & I

Mom prepared a delicious Sabbath lunch

A snap pic of me before I went to the banquet.

These are the flowers my friend gave to me. I gave him a boutineer

My christmas banquet date picture the school took. I don't really like this pic, I wish they had done it in color and it could of been better. They took in the rotunda in the Opryland Hotel. I put it up so you could at least see who my date was. Happy Holidays!

April's Photography!

2007-12-06T18:54:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone! If you are wondering how Christmas banquet went. I was really nice, I enjoyed the evening. My date went fine, he and I are just good buddies. We got to know each other better through our Chemistry labs last year. So the date was not really awkward, because we were already good friends. I don't have any feelings for him, but I did have a lot of fun. Next week, we will get our banquet picture back for people who had their picture taken. So I will upload that up. Right now I am very excited about some photography I have taken. I am in the photography class this year, and I am finding that I really enjoy it. A couple of weeks ago our project was on taking pictures of movement. So Aaron agreed to help me. I got some really great shots of him playing golf, and throwing the tennis ball. Enjoy!

Nice throw!

Aaron's facial expressions are funny

A Surprise Gift

2007-11-30T17:25:00.000-05:00

Today, was one of the stressful days. I had to finish a 4 page research paper on occupational therapy as my future career. I had to make a lot of changes, and other important things to it before 2:12! This week has been hard getting back into the routine of school after an amazing break. Christmas banquet is this Sunday, and I have a date. I am really excited I bought this pink formal dress that is flowy. In English class my friend Candace came up to me, and was like, Beth and I bought you a early Christmas present. I didn't know what to expect. They bought me a pink purse, that matches my dress perfectly! Apparently the day I went shopping with them for banquet dresses they bought the purse when I wasn't looking. That really made my day to know that my friends would go out of their way to give me a nice gift!The Christmas season is here, and in the same way God sent Jesus as a gift to us. Let's remember the true meaning of Christmas this year.

Thanksgiving break

2007-11-25T20:01:00.000-05:00

Well, I have been on break since Tuesday around noon. I have been catching up on my sleep, cooking, and scrapbooking. Thanksgiving was a special day. It is our best meal of the year, and my stomach was stuffed when it was all said and done. I've been particuarly busy with National Honor Society. I am the president of the organization this year, and NHS is a service team that helps others. So we decided to have a blood drive in December. We have 32 of the 46 needed to participate. But if we cannot reach our goal then the Red Cross cannot come out. It will be disappointing if we have to cancel out, because by having this blood drive we can help save lives. It makes me feel good to know that. So if you live in the Nashville area consider donating blood, because you are needed! Then we have our honors banquet next month that we have to plan for, it is for the new inductees and their parents. I enjoy doing this, but it certainly keeps me on my toes!
~If you were watching 3abn yesterday, Danny Shelton interviewed Andy Haub. Andy Haub is a member of the New Albany, Indiana SDA church where I did YFJ in the summer! It was so neat to see someone who was at the meetings interviewed on 3ABN. He shared how the Asi meetings changed the church, and has make a positive impact. And he decided to become rebaptized after the meetings were finished!
Next week I have some old pictures to post. I may be really busy with Christmas banquet. So we'll see. Happy Holidays!

ASI Youth for Jesus experience

2007-11-10T20:55:00.001-05:00

I shared with you all a couple of months ago how the Youth for Jesus program was a blessing in my life. I never shared with you all the photos that I wanted to, and more detail of what my days were like there. If you want to see more on what the experience meant to me go back to September, and click on the Youth for Jesus post.

Here is a picture of the the Youth for Jesus participants. We met sometimes in this gazebo type of building behind the Pewee Valley school. A couple of times we had campfires and sang together, A typical day in the Youth for Jesus was very busy, but spiritually uplifting in everyone's life.
I would wake up and have my devotions.
8:00 Breakfast
9:00 Group worship in the Pewee Valley church sanctuary. We would sing hymns. We all learned to love hymns. Sadly, in a lot of places young people are not as enthusiastic about singing hymns. They have so much more meaning and depth to them. These young people were excited and put expression into the hymns. Our favorite song was "Seeking the Lost",373. We sang this on the night of the baptism. After song service we would have worship with one of our Bible workers, and they gave good testimonies and taught us to get into our Bibles.
10:00 We had class. We had many speakers come out to speak to us. Like Chester Clark-music, Daniel, End times, Kevin Sears(our Bible coordinator)-how to give Bible studies,outreach, James Nix-Adventist History, Don MacIntosh-health message,Revelation 1, another person on health, Alan and Nicole Parker- Dating and Relationships, Daniel Mesa- how to study your Bible, devotions, Gary Gibbs- Winsome Witnessing. As you can tell we learned a lot about how to witness and about our Adventist message.
12:00 Jobs- varied daily from helping in the kitchen to cleaning the bathrooms.
1:00 Lunch! We got to interact with the Bible workers at this meal.
2:00 Worship- sang hymns, and scripture songs.
2:30 Divided into our groups to our different sites. I was in New Albany, Indiana. Others were at Jeffersonville, Indiana. Pewee Valley and Shelbyville, Ky, and Magazine Street in downtown Louisville, Ky.
3:00 or later arrived in New Albany. We went with our Bible workers to do outreach and encourage people who had stopped coming to the meetings.
5:00 supper, this was a good bonding time with our New Albany group.
6:00 Preparation for the evening meeting
7:00 Meeting, afterwards we talked about improvements we could make for the meetings, and prayer requests.
8:30 head back to Pewee Valley.
10:15 Worship with all the girls. We all shared our testimony each night. This was led out by Chelsea Jourdan, and Katie Jaeger our girl's deans.

These are my friends Marzanna and Sherene. Marzanna goes to Advent Hope!

Kristen, one of the Bible workers who I became good friends with.

Sorry! I accidentally put this pic in twice. I don't know how to cut it out.

Chelsea and I the night of the baptism.She really cared about the Youth and every night she and Katie would pray for the girls. I appreciated that. The baptism was the best night of all. You could feel the Holy Spirit there. People were crying tears of joy. I was very happy to see the people we had worked with get baptized.

Our chef, Miguel from France. He was very good at cooking vegan meals. They were the best vegan meals I had. We had tasty meals like lasagne, cheesecake, enchiladas, rice and a good sauce to go on top, and the breakfasts were good too!

This is my New Albany group. We all bonded together as a team. The man in the middle of the back was our Bible coordinator, Kalman Roller. The other two on Kal's sides, were Jeremy Wong an Keith Mosier our evening speakers. The girl, Nikki next to me and the guy, Michael next to her were our Bible workers including Keith. The rest were the youth.

Kimberly McNeilus , Nicole, and I

The lady in the middle of this group came to our meetings and was very interested in our church. I think she got baptized after we left,I am not sure. But she did go to our stop smoking classes, and desired to stop.

These two ladies came consistently to the meetings. The girl next to me, Kristin was baptized at the end. It was so rewarding to see her get baptized.I saw her grow and gave her heart to Christ, it was exciting!She gave up her Harry Potter books, and movies.I keep in contact with her now. She is actively involved in the church by helping with Pathfinders.

Becki was also baptized. She gave up her jewelry and never missed a meeting. I was very proud of her commitment to Jesus.

The program was so awesome. I grew closer in my walk to the Lord. I love to see people change in their life. Soul winning is rewarding.

What the Cross means to me

2007-11-04T19:07:00.000-05:00

A month ago in my lifeskills class we did on a project on what the Cross meant us. I decided to use the illustration of a rose in comparison to the Cross. The drawing on the top of the page of I did.Here is what it means to me:

What the Cross means to me is that Jesus has given me hope. One of the hardest things I have gone through has been losing my dad. I've lost a bond,friendship, and security my dad gave. If I didn't have the hope of eternal life in heaven, and seeing my dad again I would be depressed and miserable. Jesus, is like a rose that has a sweet smelling odor. Jesus love has filled my life with peace. Peace to get through trials down here. The thorns on the cross symbolize all the agony He went through for me. To know that someone went through that much agony and pain just for me is indescribable. Like the ridges on the rose, my life has mazes and obstacles. With Christ's help I can get through all the challenges.Jesus love will bloom in my heart if I accept it. What he went through on the cross has given me hope to share with others the hope of eternal life in Heaven.

My favorite wedding pictures

2007-11-01T19:55:00.000-04:00

I have been wanting to post my favorite wedding pictures. I know that this is kinda late, but I wanted to share.

My loving and amazing immediate family

Bridemaids were excited!
This picture is my favorite of Norman and Joelle at the wedding. I like the black and white and they look very sharp. This picture was put in both of our Portland newspapers in a wedding announcement. I have future posts that I want to post, but I don't want to overload you at once. So I may start updating twice a week. Here is what to look for in the future.

1. A tribute to my Dad

2. More Youth for Jesus pictures

3. Maybe Senior pictures

4. Lifeskills class Cross Project(what the cross means to me)

5. Senior Recognition pictures

This weekend I am planning to go on a music tour. It should be fun. I have a prayer request that I can work out a time to take my driver's license test, which is very much needed! Have a wonderful weekend!

Awesome Senior weekend

2007-10-28T17:44:00.000-04:00

We went to Opryland Hotel today,and ate brunch

I had an awesome Senior weekend. To start it off Aunt Mary came in Friday night. We had Mom's yummy homemade split-pea soup, and rolls. Then, we had the Senior recognition program. Mom and Stephen walked me down the aisle. When they read about me, this is what was said

April Rose McNulty

Secret Ambition to become a Bible worker and seek souls that are lost.

Occupation: Elementary Education or Physical Therapist

Favorite Bible verse: 2 Corinthians 4:6-7

Parents: Frances McNulty

12 year Senior( I don't really remember if they said 4 or 12, but this my 12th year at Highland schools, and the first of the McNulty family to do so.)

It was very special. Pastor Watkins gave our sermon. We took pictures afterwards.I will upload once I have pictures developed. It was so nice to have Aunt Mary here, it has been hit me hard the last two years that dad is gone. It didn't hit me as hard the first couple of years, but now it does and I miss him a lot. Sabbath we went to Highland church. The Seniors were honored by wearing red carnations. Mr. Smith our chaplain asked me to give a testimony on how Highland has affected me. Well, I had to think about that. Mr. Cornell is a godly man, I appreciated his classes so much. I shared how my best memories at Highland was learning from my teachers. Mr.Cornell's worships were the highlight of my classes, he taught that we needed to get into the Word of God for ourselves, and I shared I had taken this to heart. I was glad I had the privilege to share with them. Then, we had Sabbath lunch at home. Mom made burger roast, corn, peas, rolls, and apple pie to top it off. I was so tired from late night play practices I took a long nap. Aunt Mary and Mom went to see Grandma. Last night, we had our Senior benefit to raise money for our mission trip to Costa Rica. We raised over $7,000!! I am happy about that! We had live and silent auction items, which people payed ridiculous donations for them. We did a play on our four years at Highland which was really good, and funny. Mom and Aunt Mary said they really enjoyed it. Aaron and Uncle Albert were there to support me too, and I appreciated that. One line that that was funny I had to say was "I can't believe you are so happy! It is four in the morning!" This was on our Junior History Trip scene. Some people may know I am not a morning person. Today , Aunt Mary treated us to breakfast brunch at Opryland Hotel. It was so nice. Then, Aaron dropped me off at Rivergate Mall to meet up with my friends Beth, and Candace. I went Christmas banquet dress shopping. Finally, after much searching I found a pink,long dress. I like it, but it will need alterations. Then, we went to Wal-mart, and to Candace's house in Gallatin. On the way back home, Beth( the daughter of the Pastor at Highland church) were talking about the crises at Highland. We were both sad about everything that has happened there. Pastor Hartman gave a powerful sermon on how we need to stay to the doctrines that God has given us through His word. I came home and am trying to catch up on everything. Until next time, God bless you.

April's future bakery

2007-10-20T23:04:00.000-04:00

I have a lot of things to update you all on. So the beginning of the week is always a bit rough. I got through my classes. Both of my bosses were gone to new accounting training meetings in Georgia. I was busy in the business office. I took my Senior pictures last week, and Mom went to order them in Hendersonville. They should be here in a week, I'm excited! Some representatives came up from Southern to do interviews with us. They were professors from different departments like Education, Communications, Nursing, and Computers. I went to the Communications and Education one. I am actually interested in Communications now. I enjoy writing, and taking pictures. I talked to the professor and, I am uncertain really what I want to do. Education I know is a needed field. But, teaching is not a easy job. You have to have a lot of patience to deal with rowdy children. At the same you can make a good spiritual influence in their life to commit their life to Christ. I really need to pray about what God's will is for me in my life, rather than what I want to do. Next weekend is Senior recognition and benefit. On Friday night all the Senior girls walk down with their parents in their white dresses, and the boys as well. We all sit up front, and our sponsors read our favorite memory verse, and remembrances, our future occupation etc.. Then, on Sat. night we will have our Benefit. We are going to practice a play all week long. Which I am not looking forward to. Plus, we will have Senior choir members sing, bell choir, and gymnix. Aunt Mary is coming in from Texas for it! I am excited!! We each had to get a item donated for our live auction. I asked Mrs. Cornell to make homemade wholewheat bread for it. She makes really yummy vegan food! This brings me to my idea of making homemade bread for money to save up for college and other needs. I think I would enjoy doing this, and the people that buy it would like having homemade bread instead of storebought. This is just a idea, I'm still not sure if this will work out. Tomorrow we are going to Jared Litchfield and Chantel's wedding. The Litchfields used to be our neighbors. Being a Senior is very busy, I will be very happy when I graduate. On a Spiritual thought, I have been reading Desire of Ages this week. Ellen White wrote that Jesus brought in thousands of people in His harvesting, what are we doing down here! Staying busy with our jobs and school work, our main focus is to be reaching others. I really need to work on this. Because the only you can take with you to heaven is yourself, and the ones you helped find Jesus. May it be our desire to serve Jesus daily through witnessing and evangelism.

Another week done

2007-10-19T20:43:00.000-04:00

I like this picture, I didn't take it. It was taken in fall, and is very nice of the sunset.

I'm very thankful that another week has come to an end. The Sabbath is so peaceful. Mom made vegetable soup, and toast. Yummy! Aaron is gone to Asheville,Ky to preach a sermon tomorrow. So keep him in your prayers. Have a nice rest of the Sabbath!

New pictures

2007-10-14T18:55:00.000-04:00

Last year, it was nice to have Norman home for Christmas. Norman and Aaron are wearing new matching sweaters.

The family at the yummy Christmas dinner Mom has prepared. I was there, I was behind the camera!!

After Christmas we headed up to Washington, D.C. and Baltimore for GYC. This picture of Aaron and I was actually on the way back from GYC. We got to see President Gerald Ford's casket in the rotunda. What a honor that was!

This picture was on the way up to Baltimore when Norman was with us. I like Washington D.C. I could visit there any day.

Next week, I will share another place we went to visit on the way back from GYC. And, I will show my favorite wedding pictures from Norman and Joelle's wedding.

October homeleave

2007-10-14T13:27:00.000-04:00

I was going to post some pictures today. Next time I will, I can't find them. During my break I worked all day Wednesday for 8 hrs! In the afternoon we entered all of the student workers into a new payroll system. On Thursday, I got my Senior pictures taken. If you have been to the McNulty house you will notice all of the three boys have their Senior picture framed in the living room. I'm the last, and the time has come. It went really good, but they charge a lot for pictures. Yesterday, we went to the Walwyn's house for dinner. It was really nice. I am busy today,so have a good week and I'll keep you updated soon.

Outreach opprtunities

2007-10-07T12:40:00.000-04:00

Like leaves that change in autumn, some good changes are happening.

This last week has been super busy for me. I have had quizzes and a project to work on. Plus piano practicing , and things at home. Friday night I was really tired I was lying on my bed and pray "Dear Jesus, I know you sent me to Youth for Jesus for a reason, and I know you want me to do outreach at home and Bible work. I have been discouraged and frustrated when I go to my church. So please show me soon how you want to use me." Then, I fell asleep. I told Mom I wasn't going to go to Portland church. Sadly,the church there has fallen apart. She was fine with me going wherever Aaron went. So Sabbath morning Aaron said he was going to Highland Church. When we pulled into the parking lot, we saw Wayne Williams. Then, we went to Richie Halverson's Sabbath school class. For church, Ralph Ringer preached the sermon. It was inspiring. He preached about how our church numbers in membership are plummeting. He made an altar call at the end for people that wanted to be the outreach team of the church to give Bible studies, plan evangelistic series, and preach. Before he had the sermon we watched a video clip of Elder Folkenborg talking about ShareHim. Aaron and I went up with 20 others. Sabbath afternoon the ones that went up to the altar call went to the conference office to get training. I am going to help with Highland church's outreach. There was 30 people from Highland. Pastor Hartman divided them into 3 groups. One is the Oasis group, then the Berean group, and another group not associated with either. Now Loma Linda people will be interested in the Berean group. They listen to Audioverse. Aaron has been going to their Bible study group on Friday night, and they are studying Daniel 11 led out by Mr. Cornell. One of them has been listening to SWYC. I guess they have heard by word of mouth. This is a present truth group, and I am planning on going to their Bible study Friday night. So we are excited about what is going to happen with the Highland church.

I love classical concerts!

2007-09-30T12:43:00.000-04:00

So last night Aaron took me to the Nashville Symphony concert! It was amazing! There is a new concert hall in Nashville, that is very elegant. We had front row seats which was nice, but we couldn't see all of the orchestra. You had to lift your neck up to look at everyone. But I liked it, we could see the cellos really well. We watched their runs, they were good at that. They played Schumann,Tchaikovsky , Beethoven. I enjoyed Beethoven. Everyone that came was dressed classy, and formal. We had a fun night out in downtown Nashville. My other news is I went to ViewSouthern. I need to pray a lot before I make my final decision. If I want to do Physical Therapy I will go to Southern. I slept 10 hours last night! I was so exhausted. Have a nice rest of the weekend!

College options

2007-09-23T21:14:00.000-04:00

I've had a interesting weekend. I went to Young Women's retreat at Indian Creek Camp. It was very good. Maybe, someday I will get a digital camera and I can upload recent pictures more often. It is my last time to go to camp as a young person. I can't believe I will be in college next year. It seemed like yesterday, Aaron was there. So tomorrow I am going to ViewSouthern, and we are thinking and praying about it. I called Ouachita Hills College and they are sending me a dvd about more about their school. I am interested in going there, considering the spiritual atmosphere they have. I took an hour nap today I was so exhausted! Please pray for me in my decisions. Also, I have a silent. A friend of mine from Youth for Jesus has moved to Loma Linda, Calif. She visited Advent Hope yesterday and said she heard Norman preach. Her name was Nikki and she looks asian. I thought that was neat , what a small world we live in. September is about to wind up!

Youth for Jesus 2007

2007-09-16T11:10:00.000-04:00

This time I will share a couple of pictures from Youth for Jesus. What a blessing the program was in my life. Now I have a mission to do Bible work in my hometown. Yesterday, Aaron and I for the first time together went on outreach to a neighborhood close to where we live. We did surveys and loaned two Final Events dvds. The two ladies we loaned them to were interested in what we had. The first one didn't know her Bible well, but wants to learn more. Next week we will do followups!
These are the girls I stayed with a month in one big classroom. We became close to each other, and grew more spiritually.Chelsea Jourdan and Katie Jaeger were are deans. We gave them cards and flowers on the last night.

The group of Bible workers and youth at New Albany church. How I miss that church!

Over all there were 77 baptisms the baptismal night! And I think 145 commitments for baptism. There is one story I want to share. Sondra had a dream one night. She dreamed that there was a banged up white car in front of her house. Then, there were two guys that came to her door. I kind of quiet, the other talkative. The next day two of our Bible workers from New Albany knocked on her door. She told them the dream. They invited her to come to our evangelistic meetings. She came and was interested. She is a religious studies teacher in college. When we were there , there were some things that she was struggling with and she got discouraged. Praise the Lord she is now going to be baptized! Our Bible coordinator stayed for two more months to do follow up work and more are getting baptized! God still gives dreams today. Like I said before my passion will not end, and Aaron and I are planning to sow seeds in Portland, Tn this year!

My 18th birthday

2007-09-09T13:38:00.001-04:00

For my 18th birthday, I had a party a week from the day of Norman and Joelle's wedding. While I was busy getting settled back into my Senior year and unpacking from Youth from Jesus and the wedding. It was a lot of fun planning and making the food. I had 7 girls over from my Senior class, so we were busy!

It was hawaiaan themed notice the pineapple, coconut, and lei.

Our meal was delicious we had fruit salad, hot dog sandwiches, chips, and I made homemade pina colada for the drink.

I'm eating leftover cake after the party was over!!

I just finished opening my presents, and I'm socializing with friends. This is Beth and Kendra.

This is my real 18th birthday day. Mom made it very special. She took out all of the little dolls I collected when I was young and set them out in the window seat. She decorated it very pretty too.

My birthday didn't end till Thursday. Stephen came up on my long lunch break and went out to eat at El Azteca with us. First, I opened my presents from Mom and Stephen.

We're happily eating bean burritos, and rice, and other good mexican food. Wish you all could of been here. Thanks for the ones who called or wrote to me it meant a lot! I had a great birthday!

I do have a lot more to update you all on. I have wedding pics, and Youth for Jesus stories and pictures. Have a cool, crisp September!

Wedding picture of family

2007-08-27T22:53:00.001-04:00

Today we got some wedding pictures in the mail from our McNulty relatives. Here is a picture of our family. Enjoy!

7 girls at my house!

2007-08-19T21:49:00.000-04:00

Well.... It has been a while since I updated my blog. Sorry, let's just say that I've had a lot of good things happen since then. I went up to Youth for Jesus , an awesome experience. Then, Norman and Joelle's wedding. It was gorgeous!! Today I had 7 girls at my house for my birthday. Yes, today is my last day to be 17. So sad.. I will be 18 tomorrow. I had invited 6 girls, but a extra girl hopped in which was fine. It was a lot of fun to have a friends party. It will be my last friends party in the highland community. We spent all afternoon getting ready. Norman called today from the Chicago airport. They told us where they went for their honeymoon. I don't think I should say till they officially announce it. They seem to be doing very well. It already has been a week since they got married! I went out to cvs pharmacy to get my pictures developed from the wedding, then I bought gifts for all of my friends. It was neat having a lot of girls at my house, and it took a lot of work. They came over at 4:00. The first game I planned was I put 18 different objects in a laundry basket. I brought over to them to look over. Then, they had to write on a piece of paper as much of what they could remember, and the winner won a notepad with squirrels on it. Then, we did the trees and flower game cards. I won't explain that, it takes toooo long ! Ask me in person if you are curious. I had a hawaaian theme, so they got to wear lei's. My table was decorated with a hawaaian table cloth. Southern just put out the film "The Secret of the Cave", we bought it at ASI. While they were watching that, Mom and I hurriedly made food for 9 people total! A lot of food. We had hot dog sandwich spread sandwiches(Big Franks to be specific). I made pina colada. Yummy!!! There were chips, fruit salad, and vegan cake. Everyone sang happy birthday to me. Then, I opened my presents. I got a purse, colorful notebook, lotions, and cards. It was a very happy day for me to bond with my Senior girls. One of the girls was a dorm student. So Mom and I drove her back to the dorm. Everyone else has their license and drove to our house. I really, really feel behind. I don't have my license, because you have to drive 50 hours if you are under 18. And since everything is close by I haven't driven that much . So pretty soon I will have it, I promise! So next time, I will tell you all about Youth for Jesus with pictures. Then, the wedding! Bye everyone!!!

I'm on my way to Kentucky!

2007-07-05T14:43:00.000-04:00

I can't say much because I am about to leave. But I am on my way to going to Kentucky. Please pray for me that I will be able to bring souls for Christ. I look forward to seeing you all at the wedding!

It's busy around here!

2007-06-27T11:45:00.000-04:00

So it has been busy at home right now.

1.We are working on getting wedding rehearsal dinner arrangements made, and that is coming together. I can't wait till August!
2.I am leaving for kentucky in a week. So I have to start packing soon, and I have been shopping to get everything I need. I bought a new iron, and alarm clock Sunday and other things.
3. Sadly, I lost my Auntie Rosie in Austin, Texas. She is my Aunt Mary's sister-in-law. So we are flying out friday for the memorial service which will be held on Sunday. I will be great to be with Aunt Mary again.
4. OPERATION GLOBAL RAIN starts today. So pray earnestly! We are going to Highland church this evening to meet with church members to pray. Aaron told me that it was started by some pastors in Southern California, and Ivor Myers.
5. Meanwhile, I am here at work and both of my bosses are gone. But a couple of staff members are in the building.We are caught up on all of the work we can do. So I am busy at home, but not so at work. This afternoon after lunch I m going to bring things to read, and do!

That is my five points for the day. Have a nice rest of your Wednesday!

Happy Sabbath!

2007-06-22T22:02:00.000-04:00

Happy Sabbath! To everyone, I haven't updated in a while, bu I thought I would share a picture with you. This was my 8th grade graduation, already 3 years ago! This was a very happy night, and I really like this picture. I appreciated that Norman made a effort in his busy schedule to come all the way from Calif. to it.I wish Stephen could of been there, he's the only one missing in the pic. Next time, I will have a pic with him.

So it is only 2 weeks away from Asi Youth for Jesus! I am very excited! We had a nice week here, and Aaron is preaching tomorrow in Hopkinsville so he has been getting ready all week. I know the Lord will bless him, because he has spent a lot of time studying.Oh and no I haven't forgotten about the wedding. I am definately in the wedding spirit. We got this wedding music book this week, and I am singing beautiful music out of it. When Stephen comes up ( He likes to play the piano, and I sing) we will play out of it. There are songs like "Cherish the Treasure", and" Household of Faith", and " I will be Here", and traditional classical pieces for the pianist .I hope that you have a blessed weekend!

2 months from now

2007-06-12T11:56:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone! Guess what! 2 months from today will be Norman and Joelle's wedding. Can you believe it! Well, we are getting more excited around here about it. Mom and I talk about it a lot. So I am only here at home one more month, or less, 3 weeks to be right. I have never been gone from home a month. But a month goes by pretty fast. I am excited about doing it. So we had a good weekend. On Sabbath we had a different speaker than Pastor Miller. We had Pastor Sharpe come. He was good. On Sunday I played in a piano recital in Gallatin, with Uncle Alber't students. Then, we went down to Rivergate Mall. Mom was talking with Mrs. Damsteegt Friday. She said a lot of the summer dresses were getting sold out, because of sales. And that new dresses were not coming in any more. So we decided we better head down there soon to buy Mom's dress for the wedding. First, we went to Jcpenney, Sears. They had some they were either too flashy, or low cut, or not modest. Finally, we went to Dillard's and my eye caught a dress it was just right. Mom liked it too, tried it on. And then we went to Macy's to sure there wasn't anything she liked better. Then we bought it! Now Mom has her dress. I know I'm a girl, a lot of you wouldn't of put in so much detail. There was only one dress in the whole mall that worked out for Mom, and we are thankful for that. Plus, I am a little bored at work. Our ems accounting program is not working right this morning, and I can't do anything but surf on the internet. And for that matter post new blog entry. If I was at home I would upload pictures. Maybe I will do that later this week. I hope all of you are having a good summer, and feel free to comment on just whatever is on your mind...

Inspiring Campmeeting

2007-06-01T22:39:00.000-04:00

Well, no one guessed what I was going to say. But it would of been kind of hard.So here it goes. I thought I was going to meet David Assherick this sabbath at the Walwyn's house( church friends) who invited him to stay at their house the whole week he was here. They invited us for lunch, and I got under the impression that he and his family would be there. Since his last meeting was last night, he obviously left today. So last night he had a good last sermon. Mom and I sat in the front, and were blessed. I decided I wanted to go back and meet him. There was a lot of people that talked with him and I was one of the last. He is very friendly and outing . I think we as Christians should be like that. So it was really neat to meet him, because he made a good influence and impact on me this week. In our Christian walk we sometimes get sidetracked or lose signt of what we should be focusing on. He really preached with fire in his heart that we need to not be of this world and, work on our character and bringing converts in the church for Christ soon return. I feel inspired to put into use what he preached this week. I miss hearing his sermons, and I am going to buy them. He preached 5 sermons. Which is the most I have heard him preach, but it went by so fast! As a side note I told him I was Norman's sister, and he was interested in that. He is happy about Norman and Joelle are getting married. I hope I didn't bore you, but maybe I encouraged you that this world is not our home and we really need to set our eyes on the true goal . Again, bring converts into the church, and work on our character. Have a blessed Sabbath!

Campmeeting continued

2007-05-29T14:37:00.000-04:00

So my blog is turning into a daily blog. If you are bored and you don't have anything to do, on the web. During the summer I probably will be writing everyday, because I don't have much to do. Except in July, I will be gone for a month! That will be a good experience for me. Yesterday we went to Dr. Hans Diehl seminar it was excellant. He talked about how vegetables, fruits,grains, and nuts can cleanse your system from bad things. However a lot of people eat fast food, and junk food and they have a higher percentage of getting a stroke or heart attack. In our family that shouldn't be a big problem, because we are already on a vegan vegetarian diet. Still we can always make improvements in our diet. Last night's meeting with David Assherick was packed. I think that people were telling others about how good his sermon was Sunday night and inspiring. Campmeeting has been at it's best this year like gyc was in Baltimore. They have really chosen good speakers. There was a lot more young people there last night. Guess what? I'm not going to tell you till tomorrow. You can guess and post a comment what you think I am going to tell you all! It's Tuesday!

Sunday's meeting

2007-05-28T16:10:00.000-04:00

Last night's meeting was powerful. David Assherick gave his first sermon last night, and I will be honest and say it was the best sermon I ever heard him give. He talked about sin in our lives, and how with Jesus help we can overcome and get up again and grow stronger each day. I came home tremendulously blessed, and I am looking forward to tonight's meeting. I could really feel the Holy Spirit there. Today is Memorial Day, and I had to go to work anyways because of campmeeting going on. People need to use the ad bldg. for seminars and the office for supplies and copies. Since we didn't get any mail today, it has been slow and a little boring. So here I am in the business office, surfing the web. Happy Memorial Day!

Campmeeting

2007-05-27T16:43:00.000-04:00

Here we are at campmeeting again. We have some really good speakers this year. Tonight is going to be David Assherick's first sermon. We had Roscoe Howard this past weekend, and Dr. Hans Diehl and Dr. Michael Hasel are going to be seminar speakers throughout the rest of the week. The spirit this year at campmeeting is good. I can tell that the people that have come are in for a blessing.Today was the annual big book sale. We bought David Gates new book. I am looking forward to reading that. Aaron and I got lunch at the Snack shop. Suprisingly, I've been a little bored this afternoon. I usually am never bored. I read a little, and Aaron is counting money from campmeeting meals right now. I hope everyone's summer is going good so far, let me know what your plans are. In month I will be gone to kentucky I am excited about that.

Graduation

2007-05-21T11:39:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was a really happy day for me, yet it was sad. We saw the Seniors graduate and now I am a Senior!! The service was really nice, and at the end a tradition is the juniors hold gladiolas in the air in the form of the arch when the Seniors graduate. Herb Montgomery was the speaker and gave a good short talk. When it was all over , I had fun taking pictures with juniors and seniors and talking with people. At the end of the day we went to Rosemary Day's and Bob Wint Jr. Wedding. It was in White House. Mom and I really enjoyed it, it was a nice country wedding, not real formal. Not that I don't like formal weddings, but this was a nice country one. I knew Roesmary a little from when I used to go to camp. And we knew both families. It is really nice to be out of school, and enjoy the hot weather. Today I don't have to go to work, but tomorrow I do. I hope you all had a nice weekend too.

Friday

2007-05-18T13:38:00.000-04:00

Here I am at Highland Academy's g dorm computer lab, I was kind of bored surfing on the internet. So I figured that I would do another post on here. Today is Friday. I work in the business office, and right now it is very stressful doing paper and money work with everyone leaving. And I help them pay their bills, so we are behind doing that because it has been super busy! I am sad that some of the seniors are leaving. It is hard to believe that next year I won't have any class to look up at. It will just be us. So we had our class party last night. We went to the Carney's house and some of the class swam in their really nice pool. It was in the 60's yesterday. So a lot of us didn't go , including me. Our class sponsors are Randy Bishop, and Nikie Watkins. So Mr. Bishop didn't bring his bathing suit, and they had his chair very close to the edge of the pool and almost managed to push him in. He held his ground, and held tight. That would of been hilarious. We already laughing as it was. Tonight I get to walk down with the Juniors, a tradition at the Seniors graduation. The girls get to wear white dresses so I am excited about what I am wearing. Hey, next year it will be me. How exciting!!! Have a nice weekend, and Sabbath!

Summer here I come

2007-05-16T13:38:00.000-04:00

Wow, it has been a really long time since I have posted a blog here. I am sorry about that, and I will do better on updating my blog more often. Now that I will be out of school. Tomorrow will be my last day of school, and I am really happy about that. I've managed to get through my junior year!!!And no more chemistry. Tomorrow will be my geometry and bible exams. By the time you read this I probably will be out of school. So it is getting closer to campmeeting, youth for Jesus, and the wedding. Campmeeting this year is going to be awesome. We are going to have David Assherick as our main speaker, Dr. Michael Hasel, and Dr. Hans Diehl. Unfortunately because of work I won't be able to hear Dr. Hasel or Dr. Hans Diehl. Then in June, I will be working in the business office and training in Roy Drusky to do my job there when I am gone in July. In July I am going to ASI Youth for Jesus, and I am really excited about that. I want to get out of the office, out of my comfort zone, and bring in more souls for Christ. And it was three months Norman and Joelle got engaged but now only three months till they get married! Their new wedding website looks really good. So that is what is going on in my life in general.

Ranger

2007-04-15T11:36:00.000-04:00

So the recent news is we have a new dog. We haven't had one in ten years because, the dogs we had ran away from us. I am confident this one won't. We have named him Ranger. He is friendly, wants a lot of attention. It hasn't been perfect having him. He bit my favorite church shoes, and likes to chew stuff, if he is outside at night he barks loud. I haven't been the most enthusiastic about having him, but he is a nice pet to have and we will see how it goes. Aaron and him get along well. Yesterday, Aaron left for Orlando, Florida for trust services meetings for three weeks. Meanwhile, I only have 4 weeks left of school! I have to put together a cyclohexane model for a chemistry project today. I will use cottonballs for the carbon, and marbles for the hydrogen. I am really excited about this summer. The first part, I will be working in the business office. In July, I will be going up to Louisville, Ky to do ASI Youth for Jesus. I am interested in giving bible studies and helping conduct an evangelistic series. Then, Mom will come up for the ASI convention. A week later will be Norman and Joelle's wedding. This summer will fly. I will try to update my blog more.

Evangelism

2007-03-25T21:48:00.000-04:00

One of the most important ways in spreading our gospel to the world, is through evangelism. My church is putting on a evangelistic series right now. It has been conducted by the ladies of our church. Each weekend someone has had a different topic. We have had a couple of non members come, and perhaps the blessings I have received is being a speaker. Tonight I gave a talk on "What happened to Right and Wrong", I talked about the importance of keeping all of God's ten commandments. It was a good experience in public speaking and I wouldn't mind doing it again. Another good outcome of having our meetings was, there was a couple that are members but hadn't been attending church in a while. Since our meetings started they started coming back, and the wife came tonight. I could feel the Holy Spirit there. Next weekend is our last weekend of meetings. May God bless you in this week.

P.S. The weather has been great here, I'm loving the warm weather.

Break

2007-03-05T09:39:00.000-05:00

It is really nice to be on break. It is relaxing, and not stressed about classes. I am going to do organizing projects around the house, and catch up on my sleep. Norman and Joelle have got a lot of comments on their blogs about the wedding. Our family back here in tennessee is very excited. The wedding will be 8 days before I turn 18. Our other news is that my grandpa has been very sick, and is doing a lot better than he was when he was in the hospital. He sleeps a lot but can communicate with us. Last sabbath, the Hankins came up. Rachael played the guitar for him, and we both sang. I always enjoy singing on the Sabbath. The march winds have been violent here. Nothing seriously bad happened. Further south of us there have been bad tornadoes. A year ago Mom, Uncle Albert, and I were in Loma,Linda Calif. That was a happy memory. It doesn't seem that long ago. The asst girl's dean at my academy said she was going out there for this break, which makes me want to visit again. I'm sure we will again sometime. Enjoy the march winds, and the warmer weather soon coming.

Engagement

2007-02-19T20:32:00.000-05:00

So if you haven't heard , which I doubt, Norman and Joelle are engaged! I am excited for them and I know the Lord will bless their marriage. Tim has a really good video of them after the proposal on his blog. I am excited about the wedding in August. Supposedly, it will probably be held in Michigan. Which is neat, because my dad was born there. Whenever I go there it reminds me of Dad. Joelle seems really happy, she wrote me an e-mail. And I talked to Norman last night on the phone, and he has been waiting to do this for a while. My junior year is getting tougher and harder. Chemistry takes time, and all of my other subjects. Happy President's Day! And Congrats to Norman and Joelle.

Safe traveling

2007-02-04T10:59:00.000-05:00

Another week has come and gone, since I last posted. It seems like a long time. I had a nice time on music tour. We went to Daytona Beach in Florida. I enjoyed running my feet through the sand and watching the endless ocean's waters. Some people went swimming, but it was too cold for me. We went to Orlando, Florida as well. It was perfect weather there, not too hot but just a little chilly. It reminded my of Calif, which makes me want to visit again. Praise the Lord the tornadoes hit Orlando a day after we left. God was protecting our group and I am thankful for that. I do feel bad for the destruction there. We went to Atlanta on the last part of the trip and did a music concert, and went to underground Atlanta and ate. We also got to tour CNN'S headquarters which was really neat. We saw all of the writers working on news coming in, and the reporters from their backs. When we first got there, they were talking on the news about the tornadoes in Florida right after we left. The last leg of the trip we went to Jasper, Tn church and did a program for the members there. I know that they were blessed by our music. We went to the aquarium in Chattanooga, and to end our trip ate out at a mexican restaurant in Hamilton mall area. I am definately glad to be back with my family here at home. It is nice to relax and take it easy on a Sunday morning. Here's a picture of the capitol.

Jr History Trip

2007-01-27T17:42:00.000-05:00

When, I got my pictures developed from jr history trip I couldn't get it to work on the internet. Now I will be able to share with you a couple of pictures at a time. Since it takes a while to upload them. This first picture shows the beautiful fall colors we saw on the trip. In Virginia and Pennsylvania the scenery was amazing.
The picture below is my friends Kendra, Briana, and I. This trip was good time to spend with friends. We were waiting outside the capitol. Look forward to next time to more pictures. This upcoming week I am going on music tour to Georgia, and Florida. I think we will have a good time. Although I don't think it will top off jr history trip with all the places and historical information we learned. Have a good week and God bless.

Happy New Year!

2007-01-05T12:50:00.000-05:00

I can't believe that we are in the year of 2007. It doesn't sound right. A year from now is my graduation year. Christmas break was awesome. Norman came home and we had a great time with him and Stephen, Aaron. It was good to catch up, and on Christmas Eve we had our traditional fruit soup my mom makes. It is so yummy. The day after Christmas we went to GYC in Baltimore. I gained such a blessing from the meetings my favorite ones were Peter Gregory, David Assherick, and Jeremy Rosario. It was a struggle for my brothers to get me out of bed before the seven o'clock meeting in the morning. I am not a morning person.On the way up we saw Hartland, and walked a little in Washington, D.C. On the way back Mom, Aaron, and I were able to get inside the capitol and see Former President Gerald Ford's casket in the Rotunda. It was a honor and well worth it to see. Then on New Year's day we went to the Natural Bridge in Virginia and headed back home. I was glad to see you all at Gyc and I hope you have a Happy New Year!