The Life and Times of Anna

New Blog

2010-07-09T15:51:00.001-07:00

This blog will soon be no more. I will now be posting at a different blogspot.

The address is http://annaloveschris.blogspot.com/

Please come and visit! :)

xoxo.

2010-06-29T15:23:00.001-07:00

Priscilla and I at our favorite store. :)

Xoxo.

My dearest husband

2010-06-23T16:02:00.001-07:00

To all of you who fo not yet know about 2 and a half months ago I married the most wonderful man alive. He is the sweetest, kindest, most caring man on the planet. I love him to the moon and back plus a whole lot more and just want you to know it.

Notice the superman pin. That's because he is my superman!

Xoxo.

Happy birthday my sister and best friend

2010-06-23T14:31:00.001-07:00

Today is my little sisters birthday!
I love you!!!!

Xoxo.

Happy New Year!!!!!!!

2009-12-31T12:46:00.001-08:00

Hope you all have a Happy New Year. May 2010 be the best year ever.

xoxo.

Some awesomely cool things...

2009-09-18T16:35:00.000-07:00

School has started and the season is changing. I just LOVE fall! Thanksgiving is coming up and then Christmas is right around the corner... Oh my, oh me! I cant wait! God has given me so many things to be grateful for . Life has been crazy this year. Here are a few of the things that have occurred since my last blog entry.

* I am now a student at Sacramento State.
* We are moving to a new house which is bigger and better. (God has provided)
* Miraculously I was able to get into the speech pathology program at Sac State. (Thank you Jesus)
* I got the iPhone. Yayy!!!!
* This summer my mother took me on a hot air balloon for the first time.
* I am 21!

Thats all for now. Stay tuned in the next few weeks I will be playing a bit of catch up.

xoxo.

2009-02-16T18:14:00.000-08:00

I am making a brief appearance to let you all know that God is good! :)
Have a great week.

xoxo.

The Days of the Week According to Me

2009-01-09T12:08:00.000-08:00

Marvelous Monday: As everyone knows Monday's are not the best day so brighten someones day and make it a Marvelous Monday for yourself and those around you. Bring donuts for the whole office, give a sincere compliment, etc...

Random Tuesday: A day of random acts of kindness. I.E. pay for someones coffee, Help an elderly person to their car, etc...

Wacky Wednesday: Don't be afraid to be be yourself and show your true personality. :)

Thankful Thursday: Think of someone that you are thankful for and write them a letter or let them know that you are very thankful for them and why.

Happy Friday: Smile all day because its almost the weekend. :) Spread the joy. :)

Super Saturday: Spend some quality time with family and friends. Play board games, eat popcorn, spend time cleaning, talking, eating, and don't forget to sing.

Spiritual Sunday: Spend the day with God but don't let Sunday be your only time spend with Him.

xoxo.

2008-12-31T15:52:00.000-08:00

My how quickly 2008 has come and gone. So many ups and downs. It seems like just yesterday I was talking about how excited I was for the new year. Many great things happened and here are some of the highlights of this year.

*Mom turns 40!

*Became a blogger.

*Traveled to Israel.

*Priscilla graduated from High School.

*Priscilla turned 18. She is now an adult (or so they say).

*Ann Taylor

*Lost weight

*Gained weight

*Had the best birthday ever!!!

*Drove by myself in San Fransisco and did not get lost. :)

*Got a new job that I LOVE.

*PEAK

*Got stuck in an airport for a full day :(

*Made my first turkey ever.

*Worked very hard.... only to fail. But that's ok because I still have another chance.

*Fell in love with Jesus even more than before.

*Learned to completely trust Jesus in everything.

This year has been good for me but I am glad its over. Next year I am going to work very hard to become the best I can be. Best wishes for you in the New Year. May it be the best EVER!
xoxo.

Merry Christmas!!!

2008-12-20T22:50:00.001-08:00

I hope all of you out there have a very Merry Christmas and get everything you wish for.

***For a better view click on the comic***

xoxo.

Straight No Chaser

2008-12-10T09:48:00.000-08:00

These guys rock! I absolutely LOVE their Christmas album.

The Holy Bible

2008-12-04T22:57:00.000-08:00

I just got through reading an article that made me pause. The article was about putting a new spin on the Bible to make it hip for the younger generations and making it Eco-friendly for the people that are a part of the green movement. The first of the "new" Bibles is called The Book. The purpose is to make the Holy Bible more appealing. On the inside are pictures of celebrities, recent tragedies, etc all used to help provoke discussion, understanding and interest. Here is a picture of the front cover.
The second is the Green Bible. Its purpose is pretty self explanatory. It is made from recycled materials. I am glad that people want to spark interest in reading the Holy Bible but is this the right way??? Taking the Holy out of the Bible to make it user friendly??? I am a bit sad. The Holy Bible is good enough for me.xoxo.

2008-12-04T00:03:00.001-08:00

Laugh out Loud! That's what I am doing right now. :)

Mr Roomba

2008-12-01T12:23:00.000-08:00

Yaaaaay! As of this week the Cabral/Velarde has gained new addition to the family. His name is Mr Roomba and he knows all about earning his keep. This morning Mr Roomba was hungry so I let him chow and I was getting ready for school. When Mr Roomba chows he is a bit loud and all of a sudden I realized the house was silent. Not good. I knew that Mr Roomba must have gotten into trouble and sure enough he started choking while trying to eat my Stats notes. Anyway, all of that to say Happy Monday and don't try to eat things that are too big for your mouth... You may choke.

xoxo.

Tha

2008-11-24T13:43:00.000-08:00

Concepcion Cabral is a great man. He came to the United States many years ago from Mexico and earned his citizenship about 8 years ago. He is one of the hardest workers I have ever known and worked very hard to provide for his family. Tha raised his children telling them they were going to college so they could become successful. All three of his children went to school and received degrees. My mother and her sister got their masters and now my aunt is on her way to a Doctorate. About a year ago Tha came to the Rock Church and received the Holy Ghost for the first time. I will never forget that as long as I live. He was so excited he did his "excited dance." It was soooo cute. One thing about Tha is he is always happy and every time I see him he says in his broken english, "Anna are you happy?" I always reply "Of course I am happy" and he does his "excited dance." I love Tha and I am so thankful that I am able to spend Thanksgiving with him.

xoxo.

p.s. I call him Tha because when I was a baby just learning how to talk Tha was all I could say and it stuck.

2008-11-24T12:52:00.000-08:00

WooHoo!!! Its Monday and we are 2 and a half days away from Thanksgiving. :) This week is going to be great! :)

xoxo

Collections

2008-11-24T00:18:00.000-08:00

Everyone should collect something and they do whether they realize it or not. Some people collect stickers, pins, shoes, Christmas ornaments, etc, and then there are others that say they don't collect anything but they are collecting friends, broken hearts, enemies, titles, etc. Some things that I am collecting at the moment are college units, friends, shoes, books, and clothes. Looking at my list of collections made me a bit depressed because all the things I am collecting will have no value when I come face to face with Jesus Christ. Well, I guess that I could say that I am collecting time spent with God and that is worth a whole lot. Anyway just a random thought. So tell me what are you collecting?

xoxo.

Happy Friday

2008-11-14T09:32:00.000-08:00

I hearby proclaim Friday, November 14, 2008 Happy Friday. That means today you walk around with a large smile on your face and show others how happy you are. You will be surprised at the reactions you will get about your large smile. Make everyone around you happy. SMILE! :)
Happy Friday!

xoxo.

2008-11-13T13:37:00.000-08:00

Today is a great day!!!!!!!!! :)

xoxo.

I am Thankful

2008-11-11T09:00:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is right around the corner so I thought I would put a list together of things I am thankful for this year. So here it is in no particular order.

My mother. She is the very best mother anyone could ask for and I am so thankful for her.
America. We are free!!!
The Bible (God's Word). My blueprint for life.
My job. I love it!!!!
My close friends. They rock!
Our leadership at TRC. They are not afraid to stand up for what is right no matter the cost.
Family. I am not sure what I would do without them.
Bro. Johannes and Sis. Tawni. They are doing such an awesome job with the youth.
Zara. She always keeps me humble.
French Cuff. That place rocks and so does Darcy and her daughter. Love them!
Accountability. Keeps me on track. Thank you to those that I am held accountable to.
Emily and James. They are great examples of young leaders. Love you both!
Cookbooks. I would be lost without them.
Rain. So relaxing.
Prayer. It changes things.

I could go on and on with the things I am thankful for but I will spare you all. What are some things that you are thankful for this year???

xoxo.

2008-11-11T01:38:00.000-08:00

Yaaaaayyyyy!!!! I paid $25.50 to fill my tank today!!! How exciting is that?!?!?!

xoxo.

Did you know?

2008-11-07T12:47:00.000-08:00

Calvin and Hobbes were names after John Calvin and Thomas Hobbes.

Happy Friday!!!!

xoxo.

ps. Click on comic for better viewing.

2008-11-04T18:05:00.000-08:00

I voted... Did you??? Let me know right over there.
xoxo.

VOTE!!!!!!

2008-11-04T09:00:00.000-08:00

xoxo.

Tortillas

2008-11-03T20:32:00.000-08:00

Here I am rolling the dough.

Almost done!

Yipee! The finished product.

I used my mom's recipe and my tortillas turned out yum, yum good. :)

xoxo.

What in the World???

2008-11-03T13:19:00.000-08:00

Weird shoes...

xoxo.

5 Good Things

2008-11-01T12:56:00.000-07:00

1. It rained all day today!!!
2. Got to see my grandparents.
3. No homework.
4. Went shopping.
5. Tonight I get an extra (much needed) hour of sleep.

xoxo.

In God we Trust... Or do we????

2008-11-01T11:59:00.000-07:00

Ooooohhhh! I cant wait till elections are over. Many of us get so caught up in politics and who we are rooting for and we get so attached that we forget no matter who wins Jesus is still on the throne. So many people are worried about what is going to happen. Don't worry God has it all under control! I am not worried about this election because I know that Jesus has my life in his hands and I can rest assured that he will take care of me. So may the best man win and don't forget that God is in control. :) But that is no excuse for not voting. Get out there and VOTE!

Have a HAPPY weekend!!!

xoxo.

Change

2008-10-31T18:06:00.000-07:00

It was time for a change. Hope you like the new look. :)

xoxo.

Aghhhhhh!!!!

2008-10-31T00:00:00.000-07:00

I have been doing homework for 5 hours straight and I have 8 more assignments!!!! Eight more!!!! And its all due Saturday. My brain is about to explode and I have stats coming out my ears. Why do I procrastinate????

xoxo.

Family

2008-10-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

This weekend I was able to visit with my grandparents and my cousins. It is sooooo nice not having to work on Saturdays!!! Here are a few pictures of my weekend. :)

xoxo.

2008-10-28T23:55:00.000-07:00

GOD IS SO AWESOME!!!! :)

What is this world Coming to?!?!?!?!?

2008-10-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

November 4, the people of San Fransisco will be voting on decriminalizing prostitution. It is on the ballot to decriminalize prostitution!!! I am so upset that it is even on the ballot. You may be wondering why I even care since this is going on in San Fransisco. Well, San Fransisco has quite a bit of influence over what happens in California not that California will be decriminalizing prostitution but you never know now a days. I do not think this will pass but I am sure that the people will keep putting it on the ballot until it does. Many people are not for it so that is comforting. I am just shocked that this would even go on the ballot!!!! Decriminalizing prostitution is taking something that we have known to be wrong and not necessarily making it right but not punishable therefore in some peoples minds making it right. If you want to read the article you can click on this link. http://abcnews.go.com/TheLaw/wireStory?id=6081857

Come quickly Lord Jesus come.

xoxo.

Governor Palin and Shoes

2008-10-16T09:00:00.000-07:00

Sarah Palin's shoes rock!!! :)
xoxo.

Women of Radical Devotion

2008-10-10T18:39:00.000-07:00

I am sooooo excited!!! Tonight and tomorrow many of the ladies will be attending W.O.R.D. Convention/Retreat. We are going to hear some awesome preaching and have awesome fellowship. I will try to give you all a recap when its over.

xoxo.

Upcoming Elections and Shoes

2008-10-07T23:25:00.000-07:00

With elections around the corner many people that are not usually into politics start paying attention and voicing an opinion. I cannot think of a better way to let everyone know your opinion than wearing it on your shoes. Toms shoes has created a special shoe to help you do just that. Not the cutest shoes ever but they are pretty cool. Also for every pair of shoes you buy another goes to a child in need. Here are some pics.

xoxo.

Tag... I'm It!

2008-10-01T12:54:00.000-07:00

6 unspectacular things about me:

1. I am terrified of needles. 8-0 (thats my scared/shocked face)
2. I have never owned a pet other than a fish.
3. I am Mexican and Spanish.
4. Shoes are the greatest... in my opinion.
5. Jesus is the love of my life.
6. My favorite colors are green and pink.

Rules:

1. link the person/people that tagged you
2. mention the rules on your own blog
3. list 6 unspectacular things about you
4. tag 6 other bloggers

I hereby tag Zara, Rachel, Curtis,Victoria, and whoever else wants to do it. :)

Cake???

2008-10-01T12:02:00.000-07:00

You Are a Marble Cake

Eclectic, inventive, and peaceful.

You are never willing to accept what's "normal." You live to push the envelope.

You find it hard to make up your mind. You prefer to have everything you want, right away!

What Kind of Cake Are You?

I'm back!!!!

2008-09-03T23:50:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,
Wow!!! Its been a month since my last post and I am back to blogging after a nice long break. You may be wondering what I have been up to. Well I have been working and having fun and working. I just got a second job about a month ago and I have been having a lot of fun with it. I work with students at a public school and its lots of fun and lots of work.

College just started back up and I am so excited! We as students have such a great opportunity to witness to people and spread the love of God on campus. There are so many hungry people that are searching for truth and someone to love them. It is my prayer that I can make a difference this semester on my college campus.

I hope to post about more exciting things in the next couple of days. So check back often. :)

xoxo

Summer School is Over!!!!

2008-08-01T16:48:00.000-07:00

Finally summer school is over. Now I have a few weeks to take it easy and have lots of fun. :) These next couple of weeks are going to be packed full of fun! I am so excited!!!

Also, I have to say I am so excited about the things God is doing!!! Its so exciting to be a part of the things He is doing!!! I am kinda laughing at myself right now because I am not sure what exactly I am excited about. :) I think I am just happy the great things He has done and the great things He is going to do.

Sorry this is not a very exciting update but its all I have for now.

xoxo.

Happy Birthday!!!

2008-07-26T02:01:00.000-07:00

Yes I know, I know. There are so many July birthdays. :)

Happy Birthday to Carly Anne Felt who was born into this world on July 26,1989. WoW!!! You are getting old! :) I hope that you have a very happy birthday and that you get everything that you wish for. You are so awesome! I am thankful to call you my friend. Looking forward to the many crazy memories that we have yet to make. Love ya!

xoxo

ps If this does not make sense its because I am really tired. :)

Happy Birthday!!!

2008-07-24T00:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to the best pastor's wife ever! Sis. Young you are awesome!!! If you do not already know her she is one of the awesomest people on the planet. :) She has set an incredible example for all of the women of the Rock Church to follow. I am so thankful that God placed Sister Young in my life. Happy Birthday!!!

ps This is one of my favorite picture of Sis. Young... :)

I am Blessed.

2008-07-22T17:01:00.000-07:00

God has been so faithful to me. I was thinking about my life up to this point and began to think about how good God has been to me. He has done so much for me and I am so overwhelmed with gratitude. God blessed me with an AWESOME mother. She has done so much for my sister and I, so many sacrifices that I will never even know about. The many prayers that have gone up for me. I am so thankful. The Rock Church is such a blessing to our family. I am not sure where our family would be without the great teaching and preaching that we get. The thought of how incredibly blessed I am bring tears of thanks to my eyes. My God has given me more than I could ask for. So many blessings. Rachel Lampa's song comes to mind...

I am blessed,

I am blessed,

From when I rise up in the morning,

'Till I lay my head to rest,

And I feel you near me,

You sooth me when I'm weary.

Oh, Lord,

For all the worst and all the best,

I am blessed.


I pray that I will use my blessings wisely and use the things that God has given me to further His kingdom as well
serve others.

New Blogger

2008-07-21T21:57:00.000-07:00

It is my honor and privilege to introduce you to the newest blogger. Dun dada dun!!! Zara. (Round of applause) Her blog promises to be entertaining and fun... if she updates it. :) Anyway here is the address http://earthling-zara.blogspot.com or you can go to my list of fun places to visit and click on The Good Days.

Great Bibles

2008-07-19T23:34:00.000-07:00

I have been searching for a new Bible that is very nice and has the basics. Sounds easy right??? Not so. I have had to do some serious research. You see I don't want any Bible. The leather has to be great and it must have a concordance and be durable, have maps, in-text subject headings, etc... Well, I figured that I would share my findings with all of you. Not every Bible that I am listing meets my criteria but I figured some of them were worth listing. Here you are.

Publishers that are known for quality are Cambridge, R.L. Allan and Sons, and Thomas Nelson.

Thomas Nelson Ultraslim Calfskin Leather.

Lifetime guarantee
Premium calfskin leather
Smith sewn binding
Gilded gold page edging
Two deluxe satin ribbon markers
Beautiful presentation page and family record section
Words of Jesus in red
Full-color study maps
Concordance
In-text subject headings

Cambridge KJV Concord Reference Black Goatskin

This Bible offers a wealth of reference material--a glossary, a concordance, a dictionary of names and phrases, color maps, and a gazetteer. Bold-figure cross-references link passages of the text without cluttering the page. In addition, a presentation page and family record, India paper, gilt edges, ribbon markers, and a real leather binding make this a very attractive Bible. It is offered with either black- or red-letter text and in a choice of leathers. The new styles include two French Morocco leather bindings, and for that very special gift, top-quality goatskin leather, edge-lined for maximum flexibility. (Courtesy of Amazon.com)

Thomas Nelson KJV Pocket Companion Bible: Signatures Series Edition

A good web site to visit if you are in search of the perfect Bible is thekjvstore.com. They have everything. :) I have found a whole lot more that are not listed but do not have the time post about all of them. :( Hope that some of you have found this helpful. :)

xoxo.

The Pictures Say it All

2008-07-14T12:12:00.000-07:00

We all had a lot of fun dressing like cows... You should have seen the peoples faces when we all walked in. Hilarious. Next year if Chik-fil-a does this again you all should come with us. Oh and yes I do know that I am wearing pigs nose and not a cows. :)
xoxo.

Chick-fil-a

2008-07-10T11:06:00.000-07:00

This Friday is Cow appreciation day. If you dress up like a cow and go to Chick-fil-a they will give free chicken. hahahaha... When I first heard about this I thought, "Who in the world would do that???" Well it turns out my sister and some of her buddies are going to. They are trying to convince me to dress up as well. :) So if you get hungry tomorrow and have no money dress like a cow and get free food.

Please Pray.

2008-07-10T11:02:00.000-07:00

My grandfather (Tha) has cancer and was given three months. Please keep him and the family in your prayers as this is a very trying time.

Past the Point of No Return

2008-07-08T22:20:00.000-07:00

Last month my mother took me and my sister to see the Phantom of the Opera. The play was great! The songs were stuck in my head for a week. Finally I got the songs out of my mind and tonight I heard someone singing Past the Point of No Return... Needless to say I have it stuck in my head. I got home and was visiting some blogs and came across a list on Sis. Beth's page and it simply said, "Help me intercede... " And following that are a list of names of people that have left the church. This got me thinking while I was still singing Past the Point of No Return...

There are so many people that are crossing that line to the Point of No Return... They are making decisions that are going to affect the rest of their lives and everything seems so good and fun right now but there will come a time when the mask is pulled off. They will see this hideous creature and by that time they just might be past the point of no return. One part of the song says, "Past all thought of right and wrong, Past the point of no return ,The final threshold , The bridge is crossed, So stand and watch it burn, We've passed the point of no return. "

To all of you who may be living a life that is not pleasing to God please come home before you get to the point of no return. My heart is heavy tonight as I am writing this. I am praying for all of you.

Happy Birthday!!!

2008-07-05T14:18:00.001-07:00

July 5, 1988 Fayruz was born into this world and her family has not been the same ever since. Today she is turning 20!!! Can you believe it?!? Fayruz, you are not a teen anymore. Its ok though you can still pretend. :) Love you and hope you have a great birthday.
xoxo.

ps July babies are the best!!!

In Recent News...

2008-06-30T11:40:00.001-07:00

Hello Everyone!!! I am back after taking a small break. For those of you that are wondering what ever became of Priscilla's skydiving adventure... Yes, Priscilla lived and is planning 2 or 3 more jumps this year. My mother also lived and wants to go again as well. The people at Parachute Center in Lodi are very kind and make sure that you are well taken care of. I will not be skydiving unless I have to but it looks pretty fun.

Anyway, this week was busy as usual. Nothing exciting or new just busy. This weekend however was pretty fun. I drove for the first time in San Fransisco!!! :) And I didnt get lost once! Yaaaay! Our first stop was Emeryville for Fayruz. She is in the process of giving her bedroom a makeover so we had to stop at IKEA. Fayruz found what she wanted and we loaded it up and made our way to San Fransisco. I have posted some of the lovely pictures from this exciting trip...

Fayruz is praying that the bum does not get us and I am a bit scared.

The two smartest people in the world.

Fayruz modeling her handbag... LOL!

Lucas and Carly in Starbucks. We sat there forever cause it was cold outside.

Here we are by a Statue... :( It was such a good picture.

Wow!!! The flash is bright!

Scary times!

And we sang all the way home... I am hitting a high note. :)

So that concludes todays news... Oh and if you are in San Fransisco and want to eat good food go to the Daily Grill.... Yummy!

Thank you all for reading...
XOXO

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!

2008-06-23T10:12:00.000-07:00

Eighteen years ago on this very day a child was born unto my mother and she called her Priscilla Angela Velarde. Priscilla has had many names that she insist people call her. Some of the names and nicknames are: Missy, Pris, Prissy, Cilla, Miss Pris, Oscar, and her most current Zara. She is quite a character and loves to have fun. Today to celebrate her 18th birthday she is going skydiving so please pray... (Stay tuned for that post.) There are many things that I can say about Zara but I don't have the time so Happy Birthday and I Love you!!!!

ps I will post about my weekend later on. :)

xoxo.

Bookstore Shopping

2008-06-18T23:50:00.000-07:00

The other day Fayruz, Rachel and I went downtown to do some shopping for books. We came across two book stores that I recommend to those that love their books. The first bookstore is Beers Books. The selection here is great!!! You have to check it out even if you are not serious about your books.

The next place was a treasure trove. This is a good place or those of you who are history buffs. Barry Cassidy Rare Books is amazing!!! The house reminded me of a small museum and the books sold here are all collectors items but there are many that are very affordable. The men that work at Barry Cassidy are very serious about their job but are very helpful and kind.

Here are some other great places to find great books at affordable prices: eBay, Amazon, thrift shopping, and old bookstores.

xoxo.

Random Pictures

2008-06-12T12:11:00.000-07:00

Shoes

2008-06-12T10:22:00.001-07:00

These are some great shoes. Thank you for looking. :)
xoxo.

2008-06-10T11:07:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from Priscilla's graduation. We had a blast cheering for her. Priscilla, I am so proud of you! Congrats!

Priscilla and a friend from school

Mom and Pris

Sarah, Pris, and Sharaya

Priscilla and her Dearest

Priscilla and her boss

The Whole Gang

Mom, Pris, and Anna

Boston

Our table at Bj's

There is a screw in my pizza!!! But don't worry I didn't eat it.

Jesus is...

2008-06-05T00:43:00.001-07:00

My father.
My love.
My provider.
My best friend.
My sustainer.
My source of joy.
My comforter.
My guide.
My security.
My hero.
My peace.
My all in all.

These are the some of the many things that Jesus is to me... Really, He is my everything and I am so in love with Him. What are some things that Jesus is to you???

Crocs

2008-06-02T15:53:00.000-07:00

Crocs have been a major trend in the last year or so... Now I know there are some of you that think Crocs are the greatest thing ever invented but I happen to think they should be outlawed unless you are camping or cleaning. I was shopping for shoes online and I came across the latest from Crocs.The high heel from Crocs. I am sure they are much more comfortable than normal shoes but this is just taking it too far. I live by the idea of "No pain, No gain." What is your opinion on Crocs???

To All My Faithful Readers

2008-05-28T11:15:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day Picnic. The Rock Church Info Fair. Cooking. Working. Grad Party. Cleaning. Brainstorming. Finals. Roller blading. Chaperoning. Having tons of fun. Running errands.

That is what this past week consisted of for me. I have been running around like crazy trying to get things done before their deadlines. The rest of this week is going to be just as crazy. Tonight I am going to help my mother make 400 enchiladas. We are going to have a blast!!! So keep me in your prayers cause I may lose my sanity but its all for the cause. :) I said all of that to say I will try and post when I can.
xoxo.

Lucas Hamel

2008-05-21T00:42:00.000-07:00

Lucas Hamel has been a great friend to me over the years and I wanted to publicly say how grateful I am for his friendship. He has put up with me and been there when times were rough. Sometimes I use him as a sounding board because I know that he will just listen. Thank you Lucas for being such a great friend to me. You Rock!!!

I finally posted it. :)

Congrats Priscilla!!!

2008-05-15T23:38:00.000-07:00

Yaaaayyy!!! Priscilla (my sister aka Zara) is graduating from High School. I am so proud of her and all the other graduates. Love you Oscar! :)
xoxo

World's Greatest Mom

2008-05-09T14:26:00.000-07:00

Hello Ladies and Gentlemen,
Thank you for allowing me the honor of coming before you to announce the award winner of World's Greatest Mom. This was a very tough competition seeing that the Rock Church has some of the greatest moms ever known to mankind. After hours and hours of analyzing the contestants we realized that there was one mother that was especially deserving of this award. This mother has shown great strength in times of struggle; this strength has come from many hours on her face seeking God. Her top priorities are God and her children. She is very giving of herself. Many times has she put her needs aside for the needs of others. Most people know her as one of the kindest persons they have ever met. She is always smiling... even when she isn't happy. One of the best things about this lady is she is still a kid at heart. Even though she is older she is still doing flips on the monkey bars and racing the other kids on the playground. Most importantly she has taught her children that nothing matters without God. By living a Godly life she has set the example of holiness and taught them to always have a right spirit. She taught them to have faith in God even in the little things. Example: One night this mother and her daughters and a few others were playing Monopoly and everyone was cheating. She looked at everyone and said "I don't have to cheat to win, all I have to do is pray." She proceeded to pray while everyone laughed. She finished praying and said, "I have faith in God and He will answer my prayers." And do you know what?? He did answer her prayers. That night she taught her children and everyone else that God even cares about the little things. If we will put our faith in Him, He will bring it to pass no matter how big or how small. This is just a small summary of why we picked this mother out many. I know that you are all wondering who this great woman is.... The award winner is none other than Norma Cabral!!!! Congratulations!!! To all of the mothers out there Happy Mother's Day!!!!
She is going to kill me for posting this picture... Love you mom!!! :)

2008-05-08T23:13:00.000-07:00

So much to say but none of the words...

Calvin and Hobbes

2008-05-05T15:43:00.000-07:00

Hmmmm... Hobbes reminds me of Carly in this comic. :)
xoxo

(For a bigger image click on the picture.)

Fun Times!!!

2008-05-02T01:21:00.000-07:00

Thursday night a few of us girls went downtown with no particular destination in mind and had a great time. We took pictures until our cameras died. :) I have posted a few of the pictures that were taken and some of them will give you a good laugh. Enjoy!!!

Carly on the top of the Sheraton Hotel acting like she is on the Titanic.

Maria the star of the show. :)

Dramatic Pose... Not sure what its supposed to be.

Fayruz is thinking, I am touching the door and Vera is on the phone. Fayruz' idea. Thats all for now. xoxo.

Great Classics

2008-04-30T22:59:00.000-07:00

One of my goals is to read as many classics that I possibly can and I am having a hard time figuring out where I should start. I am telling you this to ask for your help. What are books that you consider great classics???

2008-04-30T22:00:00.000-07:00

God is AWESOME!!!! :)

The Best of Friends

2008-04-25T22:48:00.000-07:00

The best of friends,
Can change a frown,
Into a smile,
when you feel down.

The best of friends,
Will understand,
Your little trials,
And lend a hand.

The best of friends,
Will always share,
Your secret dreams,
Because they care.

The best of friends,
Worth more than gold,
Give all the love,
A heart can hold.

-Jill Wolf

Thank you to all of my great friends for being there when I needed you and being selfless... You all are so awesome. Thank you for you encouraging words and thoughtfulness. I love all of you!!!
xoxo

Flowers and their Meanings

2008-04-25T14:40:00.000-07:00

Since Mother's Day is coming up I thought I would post about the meanings of different flowers. So, when you are picking out flowers for you mother you know what they mean or you can just make up your own meaning. :)
Roses: Love
Orchids: A belle
Iris: My compliments
Daisies: Innocence
Tulips: Declaration of Love
Calla Lilly: Beauty
Amaryllis: Splendid Beauty
Hydrangea: Heartfelt
Daffodils: Chivalry
Chrysanthemums: Fidelity
Carnations: Pride and Beauty
Lilacs: Youthful Innocence
Bird of Paradise: Joyfulness
Tiger Lily: Wealth and Pride
Peony: Bashful
Anemone: Anticipation
Sunflowers: Pure Thoughts
Aster: Patience
Gladiolus: Strength of Character
Red Roses: Love and Romance
Black Roses: Vengeance
Blue Roses: Mystery and Intrigue
Pink Roses: Gratitude and Appreciation
Purple Roses: Love at First Sight
White Roses: Innocence and Purity
Green Roses: Fertility
Yellow Roses: Joy and Friendship
Lavender Roses: Enchantment
Orange Roses: Enthusiasm and Passion

High Heels

2008-04-24T15:42:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture of some shoes that Maria emailed me... I would love to see someone walk in these but I don't think that is possible. :)
xoxo

A Nice, Normal, God-Fearing Atheist

2008-04-22T16:53:00.000-07:00

I was reading an article online the other day and the author described himself as a "Nice, Normal, God-Fearing Atheist". What exactly is a God-Fearing Atheist??? Perhaps this man is a bit confused or maybe its just me. What are your thoughts; are you as confused as me???

DSW.com

2008-04-22T11:04:00.000-07:00

For all of you that love shoes, DSW now has an online store. (woohoo! now you don't have to go all the way to San Fransisco just to visit this store) :) Today they are launching the online store DSW.com. This is not my favorite shoe store because its a hit and miss finding shoes that I like; however, you should check it out because the prices are great.
xoxo

Calvin and Hobbes

2008-04-21T11:42:00.001-07:00

For a bigger image click on the picture.

2008-04-18T01:03:00.001-07:00

I was looking at my pictures and thought I would share these with you. The first is of me and some random guys that acted as if they had never seen a Mexican girl before. They asked to take a picture and then got my name and put it in their travel journal as if I was just another one of the sites.
The second is of Bishop Wilson, me, and Bro. Walls in the Upper Room.
The last picture is me and our guide Walleed. He is the best tour guide ever!
Well, thats all for now.
xoxo

Psalm 37:5

2008-04-16T00:14:00.000-07:00

Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in Him; and He shall bring it to pass. Psalm 37:5
(At the moment this is my favorite scripture).
At the beginning of this year I made up my mind that it is going to be different than the previous years. I told God that I was committing my life to Him no matter what He asked of me I would do it. Not only was I going to do whatever He asked but without question. I decided to completely put my trust in Him. I am a bit sad that it took me all of this time to fully grasp this, however, I am so glad that I finally got it!!! Do you know that everything since making that decision has fallen into place with almost no effort on my part. God is working on my behalf. :) I finally realized that whatever happens is part of His plan. When you think that way life is so much easier. There are not as many disappointments knowing that there is someone that is putting everything together perfectly. How can you be upset when you know that God is doing something greater than you can imagine?!?! Something upsetting happened in my life recently and I faced it with the attitude that God knows whats best and I am so going to trust Him and stop worrying. Doing that makes life SO much easier. God has blessed me so greatly and I am so thankful for the incredible things He is doing.
xoxo

Shoes! Shoes! and More Shoes!!!!

2008-04-10T16:41:00.000-07:00

These are all shoes that I would love to own, however, the prices of these gorgeous shoes make it impossible to do so at the moment... :)

The ABC's of an Inspired Life

2008-04-09T09:35:00.000-07:00

Ask for what you want.

Be who you say you are.

Care about others.

Dare to live your dreams.

Ease through the day.

Find the best fit.

Give to another.

Hug a friend.

Inspire someone to greatness.

Jump over a boundary.

Kick a bad habit.

Leap across a fear.

Mention something uplifting.

Never say never.

Open your mind and heart.

Pursue your innermost passions.

Quit complaining.

Restore your smile.

Set your sights high.

Trust yourself.

Use all the day.

Value everything.

Wait until it feels right.

Xpress yourself.

Yank weeds from your mental garden.

Zoom into the now.

Author: Carol James

God Blocked It

2008-04-07T19:28:00.000-07:00

I have to take a moment to brag on God and my Soprano Buddy(Katrina). Yesterday morning Battle Cry sang God Blocked It and Katrina sang the solo (and let me tell you she sang). The practice was horrendous and we were all relying on God to get us through because there was absolutely NO way we could have done it on our own. You can ask anyone that heard us practice. Anyway, Katrina sang her testimony with an incredible anointing. Not only did she get a huge blessing, but SO many others were blessed by her singing, myself included. I got to thinking about the things that God has blocked in my life and I became overwhelmed with gratitude. There have been many times where I happened upon a deadly car crash and know that could have been me but God blocked it, He wouldn't let it be so. He has been far too good to me. I also thought of things I thought I wanted that God blocked and now I see that He really did have a plan and He wasn't doing it just because. He was thinking of the big picture when I was thinking of what I wanted at the moment and not about God's plan. He is so GREAT!!!
xoxo

More Random Pictures from Israel

2008-04-02T23:16:00.001-07:00

Here I am in the Dead Sea. I was being careful not to get my clothes wet because I did not bring a change of clothes. As you can see in the background others did get all the way in the water.

Here is Rachel and London going crazy on the bus. It felt as if we lived on the bus.

Awwwwww! These two were inseparable on the trip.

Here are some children near a checkpoint in Jericho. They captured my attention so I took a picture of them. I think they are so cute. Seeing them did make me a bit sad because of the terrible conditions that they are living in.
Well, thats all for now but I will add more pictures at a later date...
xoxo

Great Quotes on Character

2008-04-01T15:55:00.000-07:00

You cannot dream yourself into a character; you must hammer and forge yourself one. -James A. Froude

A person will worship something, have no doubt about that. We may think our tribute is paid in secret in the dark recesses of our hearts, but it will out. That which dominates our imaginations and our thoughts will determine our lives, and our character. Therefore, it behooves us to be careful what we worship, for what we are worshiping we are becoming. -Ralph Waldo Emerson

Instead of saying that man is the creature of circumstance, it would be nearer the mark to say that man is the architect of circumstance. - Thomas Carlyle

Moral cowardice that keeps us from speaking our minds is as dangerous to this country as irresponsible talk. The right way is not always the popular and easy way. Standing for right when it is unpopular is a true test of moral character. - Margaret Chase Smith

Try not to become a man of success but rather try to become a man of value. - Albert Einstein

ANNOUNCEMENT: I am in LOVE!!!

2008-03-26T12:30:00.000-07:00

I just thought I would let the whole world know that I am so in LOVE with someone who is greater than all the shoes in the whole wide world. He is better than great!!!! And the best part of it all is He loves me!!! Being in love is so exciting because it makes the day go easier and much more fun. I am sure you are wondering who it is that I am head over heels for, but I just have to tell you He is the best thing that has ever happened to me. I could go on and on about how great He is but I will be late for class, so I will tell you who it is that I have fallen for..... (Drum roll please. Thank you.) His name is Jesus Christ. He is the best!!!!!

xoxo.

Random Pictures

2008-03-26T12:18:00.000-07:00

Hello World!!!

2008-03-26T12:05:00.001-07:00

This is my very first time blogging and I am excited. I will try and keep you updated on the exciting things going on in my life. The key word here is try. Hopefully you enjoy my blog. :)
xoxo.