Timesuckers

I spend a great deal of my time online. Most often, it's for work. Reading, editing, posting, designing, emailing, researching...you get the picture. So why is it that in my free time, I turn to the Internet as well. Surely there must be entertainment beyond the glow of my Macbook screen. But daily I fall victim to the lure of endless entertainment at my fingertips. These are my top 3 timesuckers, as I like to call them.

1. Pinterest. It started with wedding planning...and went down hill from there. I have boards for creative things I want to try to make and yummy things I want to try to bake. I have boards for the places I've gone, am going, and have yet to go. House decorating tips and style ideas, yup got those too! It's practically become my Google. If it's not on Pinterest, does it even exist? Discuss.

2. Goodreads. The lure of a new book. There's not much more exciting than that! With Goodreads, I can actually catalog the books I've read, track progress on books I'm currently reading, and even make lists of books I've yet to read. Maybe it sounds daunting to you, but it's inspiring to me. Anytime a website offers an "Explore" option....I'm hooked. Other readers have gone before me and cataloged books into compelling lists like "Big Fat Books Worth the Effort" or "1001 Books You Must Read Before You Die". And to take the cake, Goodreads offers a Reading Challenge. I may not be one for an athletic challenge, but if it's a reading challenge....let me at 'em. This year's challenge, 50 Books in a Year. And according to my graph, I'm 17% ahead of schedule on this challenge. Sweet. 

3. Spotify. Unlimited streaming music at my fingertips. All day, every day, it's  Spotify. Whether I'm in the mood to enjoy a favorite, or venture out to discover something new, I go to Spotify. It's like Pandora on-demand. And ok, if you have the freebie version there are regular ads and it doesn't work on your phone, but whatevs. It's a great product. When I'm really stuck for a tune, I can browse through my friend's playlists and enjoy some of their style as well. Win win.

So there you have it. These are things that suck my time. I'm sure one of these days I'll have to learn something like time management, or I'll become a parent and look back on this post long for the "good ol' days". But for now, I am who I am. Lover of the creative, the written word and the musical verse. And I have the websites to support those addictions Continue reading →

Wake Up Sleeper

My blog has always seem to have fallen between personal journal entries to travelogue to ministry updates. I love having a place to voice what's going on in my world, God's goodness & provisions, and some really cool life experiences. That being said, I think I'm going to be using this particular blog as my personal journal again. Creagon and I have put together a ministry page [www.creagonsjoy.com] for all our ministry stories, updates and news, so if that's all you want updated on....go there! But this blog, you're gonna see more of my day to day life, processing, favorites, things of  actual substance or things that amuse me. Just me. Hope you are still along for the ride!

Have you been looking for new music lately? I've been OBSESSED with the worship band, Gungor. Yes, their mainstream claim to fame was "Beautiful Things", but they are really so much more than a chart-topping, mega-church inspiring worship band. Their latest album, Ghosts Upon the Earth, is complex and intricate, much like an intimate relationship with Jesus can be. I'm especially moved by the song, "Wake Up Sleeper", which sounds like a Nickel Creek & Sigur Ros worship track, that finds it's lyrics inspired by Jesus' words to the Pharisees. Not so light & fluffy, but moving nonetheless. Watch a Youtube of the song here:

If you are looking for a new band to throw into your Chris Tomlin, David Crowder, Casting Crowns rotations, I highly suggest Gungor. Be moved and be challenged. Be inpsired.

Enjoy! Continue reading →

Preparing for London Culture

This summer, we're going to London! I'll be co-leading a team to jolly ol' England with the focus of raising awareness and preventing human trafficking before the 2012 Olympics [see video below]. I'm stoked. I've never been to Europe, and I just adore British culture. While I'm beyond pumped for this ministry opportunity, as it's a trip I've been dreaming of taking for almost a year now, I'm also looking forward to exploring a city and a new country. Especially with my new husband. It will be our first outreach together. But anyways, I thought I'd spend the next few months preparing myself culturally for the trip. Here's how I'm preparing...

Reading: London by Edward Rutherford

Listening to: Coldplay, Mumford & Sons, Oasis

Watching: Downton Abbey

Collecting: London artwork via Pinterest [LONDON CALLING!]

Do you have any other suggestions? Anything British that I must experience before arriving?

Continue reading →

Sounds of the Season

As with most music, I'm pretty picky about my Christmas music. But this year I have been captivated by the Sleeping at Last Christmas Collection. It's festive, without being poppy or annoying. Even aside from this Christmas EP, Sleeping at Last is a quality band getting a lot of recognition. They have been featured in TV shows such as Gray's Anatomy, and can even be found on the latest Twilight saga soundtrack. They've come so far since I discovered them 6 years ago. I love when a quality Christian band gets recognition not for a controversy, but for making good music. Continue reading →

Hearing God Through Christian Radio

Maybe you are thinking, well duh, of course God speaks through Christian radio. And I'll give you that. He does. A lot. I'm just not usually the one listening to it. I'll admit it, I'm a bit of a music snob. I like my indie bands no one has heard of except for a few other equally cool friends of mine. I like obscure foreign music [Sigur Ros, anyone?] and those sleepy songs that play during an art film's romantic montage [Ray Lamontagne, yes please!]. I used to listen to Christian radio all the time...but then I just stopped. When every song starting sounding the same, when I heard other bands that sounded current not like they were stuck in the 90's when its 2002, and when I realized none of my Christian friends listened to Christian radio either. Don't get me wrong, there's nothing wrong with Christian radio...I'm glad it exists! My first international mission trip was because of a Christian radio station, and I'm forever grateful I turned it on that day. But even still, it's never really been a preset on my radio. Until recently. While in southern Africa, God really challenged about secular media and what I'm taking in through movies, TV, music and books. It's touchy subject for me, because I like my media. But I love my Savior more. So when He speaks, I listen. And He asked me to let it go for a season. I began listening to more Christian music, and reading more Scripture and Christian fiction. And surprisingly, there's some OK stuff out there! I found myself continuing when I returned stateside, and added some Christian stations to my car stereo. So begins this story...

The other day I was thinking about my life and the direction it was headed, and I began to get overwhelmed. Why was doing this secondary school just 2 weeks after returning from Africa? Where was I going to get the money for the school? How was I going to pay my bills? Should I take a quarter off, and just work? Should I even go back at all, there's plenty of ministry to be done right here in Tampa? I begin praying in the state of my overwhelming cry. I turned off one Christian station [I just couldn't handle another Colbie Calait sound-alike] to turn on another and catch the last half of this song by Josh Wilson, called I Refuse. Listen to what God spoke:



It hit me square between the eyes. This was why I was turning around 2 weeks later to do another training school. This was how I knew God would provide not only the funds for my school, but also my bills. And this is how I knew that what God is calling me to is bigger. Bigger than me, bigger than any job I could take or any paycheck I could bring home. Because:

Sometimes I,
I just want to close my eyes
And act like everyone’s alright
When I know they’re not.
This world needs God
But it’s easier to stand and watch.
I could pray a prayer and just move on
Like nothing’s wrong.

But I refuse.

‘Cause I don’t want to live like I don’t care.
I don’t want to say another empty prayer.
Oh, I refuse to
Sit around and wait for someone else
To do what God has called me to do myself.
Oh, I could choose
Not to move but I refuse.

I can hear the least of these
Crying out so desperately,
And I know we are the hands and feet
Of you, oh God.
So, if you say move,
Then it’s time for me to follow through,
And do what I was made to do.
Show them who you are.

‘Cause I don’t want to live like I don’t care.
I don’t want to say another empty prayer.
Oh, I refuse to
Sit around and wait for someone else
To do what God has called me to do myself.
Oh, I could choose
Not to move but I refuse.

To stand and watch
The weary and lost
Cry out for help.
I refuse
To turn my back
And try and act like all is well.
I refuse
To stay unchanged,
To wait another day,
To die to myself.
I refuse
To make one more excuse.

‘Cause I don’t want to live like I don’t care.
I don’t want to say another empty prayer.
Oh, I refuse to
Sit around and wait for someone else
To do what God has called me to do myself.
Oh, I could choose
Not to move but I refuse.
Show them who you are.

And that is how God spoke to me through Christian radio. Funny, eh? Continue reading →

Art + Freedom

Had another great fundraiser last night! One of my favorite things about my awesome church is our love of arts and creativity. So a few months ago, when a couple approached me about putting together an art show and concert as a fundraiser for me, I thought it was a great idea. And Create:Freedom was born. We got together a group of people to get the vendors, the bands, the coffee, the food, and to help make the event a success. It wouldn’t have been possible without these people! They gathered several local vendors and crafters to come together and sell their art and merchandise, while donating a percentage to my cause as well. Dark Cycle Clothing, Heaven Rules, Got Mustard Seed?, Bijou Bloom, Merchline, Initiative Prints, and Cheyenne Christian Photography were just a few of the great vendors represented. And the bands that played were just fantastic. St. Pete’s The Sun Society started the night on a high note, with a sunny blend of folk and pop. Watermark’s own Preson Phillips played next, with their folk worship favorites. They rocked some of our Sunday morning classics, and even introduced a brand new song especially for last night’s event. Mr.Enc closed the night out, and unfortunately I wasn’t able to stay to hear him [darn that surgery recovery!], but I heard he was fantastic. Hundreds of people came through the doors to Create:Freedom, and its my hope that they walked away with some great art, some new music, and awareness about an issue that’s hurting our world. Thanks to everyone who came out and made it such a successful event! Continue reading →

Create:Freedom

Local Tampa talents join together in “Create: Freedom” event in an effort to help put an end to modern-day slavery in Cambodia.

Create:Freedom is a gathering of artists, musicians and creatives from the greater Tampa Bay area for one common purpose: FREEDOM. The fundraiser and awareness event is being held Friday, September 3, starting at 7:00 p.m. at the Springs Theater in Tampa.

Enslavement:
27 million men, women, and children are enslaved in our world right now, which is more than any other time in history. Southeast Asia is a source and destination area for human trafficking, or modern-day slavery. And Cambodia is right at the heart.

Human Trafficking & Sex Trade Awareness:
Tens of thousands are working as prostitutes in Cambodia right now, and many of them are just children. Create:Freedom desires to not only bring awareness to this country and issue, but also to do something about it. The event will provide information about human trafficking, the sex trade and also provide a chance for people to donate to an organization [YWAM] that is actively working to help these girls in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Birth of a Passion:
In August 2009, Joy Engdahl journeyed to Siem Reap, Cambodia for the first time. She spent two weeks living at YWAM [Youth With A Mission] White Doves Home for young girls who had left the sex industry. This experience changed her and she has decided to go back. In September 2010 she will begin a 6-month training with YWAM and upon completion she will return to Cambodia.

How You Can Help:
Please partner with Joy as she raises the support she needs in order to live in Siem Reap, Cambodia long-term and help love these girls into a new life where they can find hope, healing and recovery. Attend this event, Create:Freedom, where you get to have the opportunity to hear musicians like: The Sun Society, Preson, MrEnc, and see a variety of local vendors who are all donating their proceeds for this cause.

Friday, Sept 3rd at the Springs Theatre,[8029 N. Nebraska Ave.] Tampa. Doors open at 7pm. Suggested $5 donation at the door. Continue reading →

Fundraising Events and More!

Things are definitely picking up in regards to my fundraising! It’s exciting to see what God is doing. It’s completely humbling. I made a comment on my Facebook page the other day about how amazed I am at God’s faithfulness in despite of my own unfaithfulness. Several people liked it, so I know you guys out there know how I feel. Sometimes in the busyness of my days, I find myself sinning, or distracted, or forgetting to pray, and then I get a phone call or an email from someone who wants to help me raise funds. And I’m just like “wow, God, you are truly doing this”. That’s been my month. People coming alongside of me, helping me reach my goal. So far with the amount I’ve collected and the amounts pledged, I am OVER 50 percent!!! Praise God! There’s still a ways to go, but I feel like I’ve jumped a hurdle. He’s got me. We can do this. A HUGE thank you to all of you out there that are supporting me. Here’s a few upcoming events that you can be a part of and help my cause at the same time!

On-line Mary Kay party. One of my dear friends is a Mary Kay consultant, and she has generously offered to donate 30 percent of the sales I bring in this month to my trip. Here’s a link to her online store, where you can browse the full online catalog, and purchase items right from home, without having to attend a party. Whether you use their makeup or not, there’s always something you can use. Great skincare is a must for us all! Plus, you can feel beautiful on the outside and good on the inside too, knowing you are helping women and children escape a life of slavery and abuse around the world. Visit Katie’s online shop today!

Mission Rescue. You are invited to an evening of tea and desserts at the Empress Tea Room and Bistro [Tampa, FL] on Thursday, August 12th. Doors open at 6:30pm. Join others in making a difference in the world of human trafficking. There is power in one, and together we can make a change. A minimum donation of $20 will go towards sending me to Cambodia.. Your small donation WILL make a HUGE difference.

Create:Freedom Art Fair. Create:Freedom is a gathering of artists, musicians and creatives from the greater Tampa Bay area for one common purpose: FREEDOM. 27 million men, women, and children are enslaved in our world right now, which is more than any other time in history. Southeast Asia is a source and destination area for human trafficking, or modern-day slavery. And Cambodia is right at the heart. Tens of thousands are working as prostitutes in Cambodia right now, and many of them are just children. Create:Freedom desires to not only bring awareness to this country and issue, but also to do something about it. The event will provide information about human trafficking and the sex trade and also provide a chance for people to donate to an organization [YWAM] that is actively working to help these girls in Cambodia. This event will be Friday, Sept. 3 at the Springs Theatre in Tampa, FL. Doors open at 7pm. Suggested donation of $5 at the door.

If you are in the Tampa area, feel to free to come to any of these events. And bring your friends! I’m really excited about all these upcoming opportunities to share my passion and this cause with others. Please keep me in your prayers as well. Continue reading →

Monday Morning Loves

This didn't post this morning! But that doesn't mean I love these any less!


1. Mad Men. 1960's. Advertising. Attractive men. What's not to love?? This AMC show was an instant classic in my book! I love the 1960's, probably the decade I'd chose to live in if I could pick a different one. And advertising was my major. Mad Men is just as much about the advertising men [and women] on New York's prestigious Madison Avenue as it is about the characters themselves. The anti-hero, Don Draper, is so cool you can't help but love him. But then he cheats on his wife regularly, and treats everyone terribly and you can't help but hate him. But he's played by hottie Jon Hamm, who you can't help but stare at! This show is a combination of terrific actors, clever storylines, brilliant writing, and fantastic direction. A must-see!

2. Zunzi's. My mouth waters just thinking about to say about this deli. Savannah, Georgia, is where you would find this little treat. I discovered it with a friend a couple years ago, and anytime I'm in Georgia, I feel compelled to drive to Savannah for Zunzi's. Or if anyone else is either, for that matter! I had my parents bring me back food from there once. What's so great about Zunzi's? Well, founded a South African couple, their recipes are original and flavorful. The portions are more than generous. Their rooibus tea is to die for. Basically it's a food lovers dream spot. I've shared the good news of Zunzi's with several travelers, and made converts of many. Dee-licious!

3. Words with Friends. My favorite iPod app for sure! It's Scrabble...with friends...for free! Word games are my favorite type of board games, and I love to be able to challenge friends to matches, over and over again. There's still a few friends out there I'm DETERMINED to beat [talking to you @DallasH and @Mad_Max!!] and some that stretch my wordplay ability. It's a blast! Check it.

4. Preson Phillips. This totally rockin' band also happens to be the worship band at my church. And the lead singer, Preson Phillips, happens to be my pastor too! One of the things I love most about my church is our unique worship style. Tommy [Preson] writes the majority of the songs we sing, and they are just beautiful. So often I am moved by the lyrics, and its just lovely. Check out their albums, you won't be disappointed!

5. Project Runway. Creativity + sewing + Tim Gunn = a great show. This once-Bravo, now-Lifetime series is my favorite reality show. I really got into it when I started to sew. I'm not one for high fashion, I could barely name 5 designers. But I love the creative process these designers go through. I understand basic garment construction and can recognize quality and skilled work. Tim Gunn, the host, and his catchphrase "Make it Work" are synonymous for hard work and excellent taste. The regular judges, Nina Garcia, Heidi Klum, and Michael Kors, are a blast to watch. All in all, a great TV show! Continue reading →

Monday Morning Loves

1. FRIENDS. If anyone were to ask me what my favorite TV show is, it would be FRIENDS, no contest. Even though the last new episode aired over 5 years ago, it's still my go-to television show. I own all 10 seasons on DVD, and regularly have an episode playing. At least once or twice during a day, I make a FRIENDS reference, either in my head or out loud. Some people have "comfort food", but I have "comfort TV". I have seen every episode countless times, so don't bother challenging me to FRIENDS Scene It [which I own], unless you want to lose. Because I'm pretty much awesome!

2. Nickel Creek. This band is what happens when bluegrass meets awesome. Nickel Creek is amazing. With Chris Thile's vocals and mandolin playing skills, not much else can compare. Super siblings, Sarah and Sean Watkins, make up the other two parts of this trio, and add vocal depth and musical perfection. I saw Nickel Creek live a few years ago, and it was one of my favorite shows. Here's a great video of the band on PBS with a classic, I Should Have Known Better.



3. My car. It's true, I love my car. It's only the second car I've owned. I got my 2005 Saturn Ion back in 2006, and couldn't have been happier. It's taken me to alot of great places, and we have a few more planned before we part ways next year. She's been good to me, despite all my use and abuse. I swear, most days I feel like I spend more time with her than anyone else in my life. So this pic is the day I took her home, and said goodbye to my 'Stang which I had throughout high school. Bittersweet!


4. Texting. OMG, do I love to text. I didn't really jump on this bandwagon until I got my job with Teen IMPACT 2 years ago, and realized that the only way I can get a response from a teenager, is to text them. My life was changed. Now, if I can't text, email or Facebook someone, chances are, I won't contact them. I'm an awful friend as a result! My thoughts have condensed to 160 characters or less, and my spelling/vocabulary has been reduced. idk srsly, y use xtra lttrs. i kno what u mean! jk :) lol

5. Harry Potter. I was a latecomer to the Harry Potter bandwagon. I had several friends that were Potterheads, and I never could see past the "magic" and "wizards" to really give a try. Then finally I did, and I discovered what my life had been missing. Some of the best writing and story telling I've ever read, first of all! The whole series is just so clever and so entertaining, that I went out and bought the whole series, so I can read them again and again. I didn't watch any of the movies until I had read all the books, so when I finished, I planned a huge Harry Potter movie marathon, invited friends and made snacks! It was so fun! I even did the midnight showing of the sixth movie, and dressed up! And I CANNOT wait until the theme park opens over in Orlando next month! Potterhead...why yes, I am! Continue reading →

Monday Morning Loves

1. Crime Fiction. I am such a reader, and this is my go-to-genre of choice. Everything from Michael Connelly, to Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child to Steig Larsson. I love trying to figure out whodunit, before the characters in the book do. My absolute favorite are the authors who have the reoccurring character novels, like Connelly's Harry Bosch or Child's Jack Reacher. I love a book that I can read super fast and entertained the whole way through. And for me, it's crime fiction.

2. Ray Lamontagne. Hands down, one of my favorite artists. I love love love his voice! It's smooth and soulful. The guitar and piano accompaniment really just bring it all together in the perfect package. I saw him live and he did not disappoint. Here's one of my favorite tracks by him, Empty.



3. Blogs. Clearly, I love to blog. I enjoy having a place to put down all my thoughts, feelings and experiences. And I love to be able to share them with the blogosphere. I was always a journaler, but blogging has been a fun transition to journaling for an audience! And I love finding and connecting with bloggers too. I'm part of the 20 Something Bloggers network, and have found some great travel, justice, and pop culture blogs like Chase's The Drift or Lindsey's La Dolce Vita. Community is such a part of our culture, and blogging is just another way to find it!

4. Criminal Minds. Since I already shared my love of crime fiction, and so now I will share my love of a certain crime TV show, Criminal Minds. I always said in another life I would have been an FBI profiler, because I've always been fascinated with their work. Criminal Minds has a great cast, from the brainy hottie Dr. Reid to the smart kitschy analyst Penelope Garcia. The season finales leave you with huge cliffhangers that seem impossible to wait for closure. I'm luck though, because I watched 4 seasons in about a month, so waiting for me! I'm not alone in my addiction either, criminal procedural shows [Law & Order, CSI, Crossing Jordan, NYPD Blue, and others] have captivated audiences for years. Criminal Minds is top-notch.

5. My Chair. I picked up this chair at Urban Outfitters a couple years ago, and its the one piece of furniture I refuse to let go! It's moved with me 3 different times and will stay put when I move overseas. It swivels...it's comfy...and it looks amazing! The bright colors and mismatched patterns have inspired my entire bedroom's decor, just like these curtains I made!

Continue reading →

Morning Morning Loves

1. Traveling. I'm sure the posts on my blog as well as the pictures kinda gave this one away. I love love love to travel. Whether its a new country, a new state or a new city, I just love it. There's just something exhilarating about discovering something new, something that I've never seen before. Or having a favorite place that I can visit over and over again. I definitely have some travel in my future. With my training for Cambodia, I'll be spending 3 months in Orlando, FL [a new city!] and 3 months overseas [still don't know where yet though]. I'm also planning a road trip to visit some friends and family before heading out! Good times ahead!

2. Relevant Magazine. Magazines are usually something I browse through, but barely buy. But Relevant Magazine is one that I regularly subscribe to. Covering topics like God, progressive culture, and life, it always contains articles that I'm interested in. I usually get hooked by the great cover story, either from a celebrity to a public figure, and then go back and read each article in between. I love their book and album reviews. I'm always looking for a new read or a new band, and I can trust Relevant's recommendations, as their taste is generally right in line with my own! Plus a year subscription is $10. My budget likes that too.

3. Iron & Wine. This incredible band, who is really one guy, is one of my all-time favorites. Sam Beam's smooth voice and the beautiful sound the music makes creates a powerful combination. The "Shepherd's Dog" is my favorite album, with incredible songs like "House By the Sea", "Boy with a Coin, and "Flightless Bird, American Mouth". It's easy to listen to, makes for great background music, driving music, or laying out music.

4. TOMS Shoes. I'm unlike most girls in several ways. One way is that I'm not a shoe shopper. I don't own hundreds of pairs of shoes. But one shoe company almost turns me into one of those. TOMS Shoes not only puts out great quality and super comfy & cute shoes, but the shoes also serve a purpose. With every shoe purchased, another pair is donated to children around the world who don't have any shoes. Going barefoot often prevents kids from going to school, being able to find work, and even being able to stay healthy. TOMS Shoes does regular shoe drops around the world to help change these kids lives. And my shoe purchases help!

5. Hipster Puppies. Oh the novelty website. Hipster Puppies is exactly like it sounds. Puppies who look like hipsters. Seriously, what's funnier. And they are creating a book soon. Now that's even cooler. Continue reading →

Monday Morning Loves

Happy Monday everyone! Another installment of just a few of my favorite things...




1. Urban Outfitters. I'm not a real clothes shopper. The mall to me is truly exhausting. But one store that I just can't get enough of is Urban Outfitters. Often it's either out of my price range or because I don't have the figure of a 12 year old boy, I can't pull off all their looks. But I don't let that discourage me. I own several cute dresses from Urban. I especially love their home decor items. From my bedspread, to my chair, to my wall hooks, and probably even more, so many little decorative items I own come from them! And one of these days, I'll get the fashion sense to truly pull off a great outfit.

2. Amazon Kindle. Oh, my Kindle. I didn't realize how much I'd love my Kindle. I feel like a salesperson for Amazon. I'm constantly raving about its benefits. For being such a reader, having the ability to carry hundreds of books with me at all times, is truly amazing. I love the ease of downloading, and being able to jump from book to book. Plus, it has international wireless availability, so I can keep the fun going in Cambodia, and wherever else my travels take me. No more heavy bags of books for me while traveling! Me and my Kindle are soulmates.

3. Cambodia! I first visited this country last year, and I can't wait to get back! I loved too much of this country to list in this little post, but if you read any of my other Cambodia tagged posts, you'll understand why I fell in love. I mean...look at this!


4. Macbook. I was a PC for the first 25 years of my life. Then, I converted. Several people I knew were Mac users, and I needed a laptop for work, so I thought...why not! And I've never looked back. From its streamlined look to its super easy use, what's not to love?! Everything I ever do is on my Macbook. I'd be lost without it.

5. Switchfoot. There are few bands that I can listen to at any time. Switchfoot is one of them. I've seen them live 4 times, and every time they amaze me. I love their sounds, their lyrics, and their energy. Somehow they manage to be a band of Christians, instead of a Christian band. Too often I hear a Switchfoot song that stops me in my tracks. My favorite, Awakening, reminds me to wake up and discover my dreams. This video is one of my all-time favs, starring Buster from Arrested Development and Emma from Glee!



So there you have it! Another installment of my Monday Morning Loves! Continue reading →

Monday Morning Loves

There's a blog that I religiously follow by Promise Tangeman, who is an incredible artist, designer, photographer, and creative. One of my favorite posts she regularly puts on her blog is her Five Things I Love, and it's basically a post about 5 things she loves! So clever. I decided to "borrow" the idea and start posting my Monday Morning Loves each Monday morning. Mondays can be rough, so I like to start the day thinking about some of my favorite things. I'm going to keep it light and fluffy, so obviously some big things I love won't be here [God, family, friends]. These are just a few glimpses into my soul. So here's my first!


1. Kurt Halsey. He is my all time favorite artist. I even have a tattoo of his work on my foot. His designs are whimsical, clever, heartwarming, and often sad. Just like life. Art is such a big part of my life, and I feel like Kurt Halsey draws life as I see it. Sometimes dark and dreary, blurry around the edges, and sometimes bubbly and colorful. So take a peek and enjoy some of his work!

2. My iPod Touch. Oh, where was I before this purchase?? It not only holds my 32GB music collection, but also my favorite photos, video clips I enjoy, my day to day calendar, and hours of countless entertainment [Words With Friends!]. Maybe I am slightly addicted to my iPod touch, I don't know. But seriously, I love that little guy.

3. GLEE. One look at my iPod playlists, or cell phone background, or key chain, or DVD collection will clue you into this one. I love the TV show GLEE! It combines snarky dialogue, over the top musical numbers, and high school drama. How can anyone NOT like this show! It's become such a phenomenon, and I'm just along for the ride. It's only aired 12 episodes, and already all of America is in love. This week marks the return of the first season, and I can not wait. And maybe I'm crushing a little on the cutest glee club teacher around, Mr. Schue [Matthew Morrison], but can you blame me!?


4. Starbucks Passion Tea Lemonade. This delish drink is my standard summer beverage. It's cool and sweet and all around refreshing. Made with Tazo's Passion Tea, the blend of lemon makes it a summer must. Plus, with my own reusable Starbucks cup, I save on each fill-up! Yes please!

5. Mumford & Sons. This band rocks my world. I actually wrote an entire post about them a few months ago. M&S is a British bluegrass band with powerful lyrics and compelling music. It's a CD that I can listen straight through and never skip a track. Typically my band crushes wear out quickly, but since I discovered this gem back in February, I can't get enough. Check them out, I promise, you won't regret it!



So there you have it! Five things I love this Monday morning. Stay tuned every Monday for a little more insight into what makes my crazy heart beat.

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Mum is the Word

I am an avid seeker of new bands and new music. One of my favorite things is to find some little known band that is fantastic and has hardly any exposure. Thankfully, I have a good group of friends who are the same way. So when my friend Ryan told me about Mumford & Sons, I was excited to check them out. And, man, am I glad I did! This phenomenal folky foursome comes from across the pond, West London to be exact. These four friends only started making music together back in 2007, but what a sweet sound it is. It’s folk & bluegrass, it’s moving & powerful. But aside from their musical talent, it’s their lyrics that really resonate with me. The opening and title track, “Sigh No More” says "Love it will not betray you, dismay or enslave you / It will set you free / Be more like the man you were made to be”. It’s followed by “The Cave” which beautifully states “So come out of your cave walking on your hands / And see the world hanging upside down / You can understand dependence / When you know the maker's hand”. My favorite track is “Roll Away Your Stone” because these lines stop me every time “You told me that I wouldn't find a hole / Beneath the fragile substance of my soul / And I have filled this void with things unreal / And all the while my character it steals”. So powerful, so eloquently spoken. The best boot-stomping song, as I call it, is “Little Lion Man”. It’s sure to stop you in your tracks. But don’t take my word…listen for yourself. Check out their MySpace or watch these videos here. And ENJOY!

Winter Winds

The Cave

Little Lion Man [contains profanity]

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Cue Up Those Christmas Carols!

Tis the season for lights, hot chocolate, gifts, and...cheesy Christmas music. I have a love/hate relationship with Christmas music. There have been a few Christmases where I refused to listen to any. Then some years I embrace the joyful holiday musical spirit. But lately I've been compiling my version of good Christmas tunes. Some festive, some mellow, some merry, and some thoughtful. So I thought I'd share!

First of all, it's just not Christmas without Harry Connick, Jr. He has released 3 stellar Christmas albums that are a playlist must. Also, Sufjan Stevens has a compilation of 5 Christmas CD's that have some great tracks – both Christmasy and not! I found some great hymns on there too! Last year, I fell in love with “The Hotel Cafe presents Winter Songs” album. With artists like Brandi Carlile, Sara Bareilles, KT Tunstall, and Colbie Callait, it's hard to go wrong! Some other favorite tracks include “My Grown Up Christmas List” by Kelly Clarkson, “Joy to the World” by Whitney Houston, “O Holy Night” by Mariah Carey, “Baby, It's Cold Outside” by Doris Day & Bing Crosby, “All I Want For Christmas is You” from the Love Actually Soundtrack, "Go Tell It On the Mountain" by Needtobreathe and “Happy Christmas” by John Lennon.

Some new discoveries this year have been A Fine Frenzy's “Oh, Blue Christmas” EP. The track “Red Ribbon Foxes” is by far the best, with great lyrics such as “Love doesn't come in boxes, or truth in a crowded shop”, I've had it on repeat for days. Also found “Carol of the Bells” by the Bird and the Bee! So lovely! So that's just a few of my musical holiday treats for this season.



What are some your classics? Any new finds this season? Continue reading →

And the Decision Is...

I've agonized over this for quite awhile. I prayed about it for weeks. It's been on my mind since before I left. Will I move back to Cambodia and do long term ministry? Or will I stay in Tampa for something here? Where the heck is God calling me? Oh, the unrest and sleepless nights [part jet-lag, part indecision] drove me nuts. I finally just stopped. Stopped thinking about it, praying about it and agonizing over it. And then peace came. Not in the form of lightning or flashing neon signs [never does], but in the gentle realization that God has already called me there. He had already placed the broken women of Cambodia on my heart. I was getting in my own way. My own fears, my own hangups, was holding me back. And by putting those aside, I saw the answer. I'm going back.

With YWAM, any staff position requires a DTS [Discipleship Training School]. I've chosen the one in Battambang, which is two and a half hours south of where Siem Reap [where I visited]. I chose this one particularly because it's ran by Americans [yay English!] but it will give me the chance to start picking up Khmer. It's a 6month training school which is part missions lecture/training and part outreach. The next session begins March 2010, which is what I'm applying for. The cost will be around $3,000, which after I'm accepted to the school, I can begin raising. My position with White Doves would be support raised also, so me and God are about to start the faith adventure of relying on other for my livelihood. It's exciting, stressful, stressful and encouraging.

So that's where I am now. Getting my paperwork together to apply for DTS Battambang and get myself back there! Thanks for your prayers and encouragement and beginning this crazy ride with me! More to come...

Check out this song by Sara Groves called “I Saw What I Saw” which I could not stop listening to in Cambodia, and that really guided my decision-making process.

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Faust is Following Me!

So recently I was reading a fictional book about this guy who died and all evidence seemed indicate that he had been killed by the devil, basically because the guy had “sold his soul” to him and the devil came to collect. The lead detective in the story reference the literary classic “Doctor Faustus” by Christopher Marlowe, which has a similar premise. As the book continued, the detective alluded to more of Marlowe's classic and it intrigued me so much, I actually picked up up a copy at Barnes and Noble one night. [It still sits on my shelf, but I will read it!] A few weeks after that, I get an email from the performing arts center here in town about some shows coming to town, and some discount tickets. One of those shows was a French opera, FAUST. Intrigued, I bought 2 tickets for $17. I attended the show last weekend, and was enamored by this story again of this male lead, giving up his soul for the pleasures of youth. But it wasn't until I was driving a few nights again when I started to get weirded out. I was listening to a playlist of my favorite band, Switchfoot and their song “Faust, Midas and Myself” comes on. I started to get the sneaky suspicion that Faust is following me.

I stopped to think about my own life and began to see some parallels to Faust. No, a creepy old guy didn't follow me home one night and force me to sign papers containing my soul. But, I do find myself playing into the hands of Satan more often than I like to admit. One lyric of the Switchfoot song really jumped out at me “What direction? Death or action! Life begins at the intersection.” I feel that is so true at this stage of life I'm in right now. As God is burdening me with ministry opportunities, I find myself stuck at an intersection. Am I choosing life? Am I selling my soul for fleeting pleasure? What do I chose? I just pray that I don't take the same road as our friend Faust, and reap the serious consequences of that fatal choice. “You've one life, You've one life, One life left to lead...” Continue reading →

Art of Losing Myself

Every time I hear this song, God's presence completely overwhelms me.

"From The Inside Out" lyrics - by Hillsong (2006, Mighty to Save)

A thousand times I've failed
Still your mercy remains
Should I stumble again
Still I'm caught in your grace

Everlasting
Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending
Your glory goes beyond all fame

Your will above all else
My purpose remains
The art of losing myself
In bringing you praise

In my heart, in my soul
I give you control
Consume me from the inside out
Let justice and praise
Become my embrace
To love you from the inside out

Everlasting
Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending
Your glory goes beyond all fame
And the cry of my heart
Is to bring you praise
From the inside out of my soul
Lord my soul cries out


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The Theology of Switchfoot

Last night I had the chance to see one of my favorite bands in concert - Switchfoot. And what an awesome show! From the crowd surfing, to the stage jumping, to the just great music….Switchfoot brought an awesome show! But that's not all I love about Switchfoot. This band is very popular to the Generation X... men, women, boys and girls, we all seem to identify with this band. And I ask myself why? The secret is in their lyrics. Something about their lyrics, like theology wrapped in rock music, always grabs me. It hit me again last night listening to them rock out.

Several of their songs deal with the brevity of life ( Dirty Second Hands, Gone) and a seize-the-day type of mentality ( Dare You to Move, Meant to Live, This is Your Life). As a 20something trying to find my place in this big world, those songs jump out at me, charging me not to settle for mediocrity but strive for excellence. Especially right now, as I begin this move to Georgia to work for AIM. Its scary and overwhelming, but at the same time, its something I was born to do.

Their songs band us together ( Lonely Nation, Happy is a Yuppie Word, We are One Tonight, Politicians) as a generation not willing to settle for a spoon-fed type of existence and meaning. Feeling unity in today's day and age is an odd concept. Independence flies in America, in both a good and a bad way. I love that we live in a free nation, but I hate the idea that we have to do everything on our own. Belonging to a cause or to something bigger than ourselves is comforting...like I'm not alone in all of this anymore.

Their songs praise a higher God and speak about the depravity of the human race. The song The Shadow Proves the Sunshine is very much how I see things. It says - "Crooked souls trying to stay up straight, Dry eyes in the pouring rain, The shadow proves the sunshine,The shadow proves the sunshine". And I love those lines because its so true and very much how God works, and what we are able to see in this world. Just because things are a little dark doesn't mean there is no light. Without light, there wouldn't be darkness. We wouldn't know the difference. Daylight to Break sings " Back in the tragedy, I've made a mess of me, My bitter means, my bitter ends, yeah , I've seen the irony , It gets the best of me , Dying to be made new again, again" The way this band captures humanity and spiritual growth is amazing and refreshing. It's refreshing to know I'm not the person in this world struggling with something that's consuming. It's given me a chance to connect with God again, with music and thoughts. For that I am thankful.

All this from a band in the Top 40.

I'm excited about their new album, Oh! Gravity releasing next month. They previewed songs Dirty Second Hands, Oh! Gravity. and My American Dream; songs which lived up to the Switchfoot quality of music.

If you haven't yet experienced Switchfoot, I urge you to check them out. You'll never be the same. Continue reading →