Falling in Love with FALL

I love the fall season. Everything about it makes me happy. This weekend was the kickoff to my favorite season! The mornings were crisp, the sun was shining, the leaves are changing, football on tv, pumpkins on porches and most importantly spending time the family and schedule fall trips to the pumpkin patch and our scenic drive over the pass!

This weekend was just another reminder how amazingly blessed I am.

Started Saturday with a devotion from Jesus Calling.

Saturday was a packed day full of Falcon athletics! Volleyball played at 2:00pm and won in 5 games and then at 7:00pm was a women's "Kick for a Cure" soccer game!

With all my driving I have been doing, going back and forth to Enumclaw and Seattle, I have been discovering some awesome new songs on Spirit 105.3.

Of course, the best part of the weekend was seeing my AMAZING, PERFECT little nephew! Seriously, he is perfect! He is the most laid back baby ever!

Woke up early this morning to make a nice, yummy breakfast with coffee before I headed out to work! I was going to drive back up Sunday night like I usually do, but I stayed longer to hangout with my nephew (surprise!) and decided to stay Sunday night at my parents house. They might be retired, but they can't get ride of me that easily :)

Sunday morning was nothing short of amazing. Look at those colors! Fall is in the air!

Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.

Lamentations 3:22-23

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God Knows Best

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."

Matthew 11:28-29

Dear Lord, thank You for seeing my need for rest and inviting me to learn from You. On my own I always seem to be looking for knowledge and approval elsewhere. In my heart I want to receive what You have to offer. Help me to stay focused on You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

So, it has been a couple days since my pity party. I must say, I throw some pretty good ones for myself. Throughout my pity party I have been realizing just how draining life can be when I seek approval elsewhere (boss, student workers, co-workers) and not in Him. When I try to find comfort elsewhere (eating, spending money), and not in Him. when I try and find peace elsewhere (skipping quiet time) and not in Him. Talk about exhausting!

Well, every morning I get a daily Bible Encouragement for the day. This encouragement came at just the right time. #justwhatIneeded #alwaysontime #Godknowsbest

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September 28, 2012
The Best Teacher I Ever Had
Glynnis Whitwer

Every Friday in fifth grade I had a science test. And every Thursday night I had a stomachache. Fifth grade marked the beginning of the "Upper Grades" for me and I wasn't handling it well. The expectations were higher, the curriculum harder and my desire to do well was great. And it made me sick with worry.

For the next 12 years this pattern continued. While the physical symptoms eventually abated, a desire to do well on tests and assignments drove me to work hard. Sadly, it wasn't always because of a love of knowledge. More often it was the satisfaction of earning a grade ... an achievement I could point to with pride.

After college this mindset transferred to my career and even my service to God. Whatever job or assignment I was given, I studied the rules and did what was expected. I learned well and measured my success accordingly. Only there was a problem. My life exhausted me.
Deep inside, when I was honest with myself, my worth and value were attached to the "grades" I earned. Life moved from one performance evaluation to the next, with little emotional or spiritual rest. There was always something else to achieve ... to prove.

As I studied the Bible (like a good "student" would) I discovered I wasn't the only one concerned about doing things right. It seemed the Jewish people felt this way too. They had many rules and regulations to follow. They studied the Scriptures and prided themselves on obeying it. They held up the law as a measuring stick. Proving their worth consumed them, especially those in leadership.
Was that what Jesus saw when He looked at them? Did He sense the heaviness of their burdens to get it right? Did He see their spirits bent under the weight of artificial expectations? Did sadness overwhelm Him knowing they cared more about rules and man-made traditions than learning about God?

I wonder if that was on His mind when He spoke these words: "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." (Matthew 11:28-29 NIV)

My heart sighs at Jesus' words, so great is the relief they promise. I can almost sense Jesus taking my face in His hands and saying, "Stop looking to the rules for your worth. Stop trying to measure yourself against the law. It's all too heavy to bear. You'll never be good enough that way. Look at Me. Learn from Me."

What a difference this truth has made in my life. When I take my eyes off the rules, tests and performance, and put them on Jesus, a weight is lifted. Rather than constantly striving to make the grade, He releases my need to perform and replaces it with His acceptance. The heavy yoke of pride is replaced with His light yoke of humility.

Jesus' invitation to come to Him wasn't a one-time thing. Are you weary? Is it exhausting trying to meet everyone's expectations?

Jesus' way is still light, and He still offers rest. Learn from Him, He's the best teacher I've ever had.

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When bad days happen...

Yesterday was a bad day. I was tired. I didn't workout and wasn't eating right. I was overwhelmed at work, unmotivated in many areas in my life. Basically feeling sorry for myself (insert pity party).

This morning has not been much better. I had to run out the door this morning because some things came up at work and I needed to be there to open the office. (Again, insert pity party). I was unable to sit down and pray before the day like I usually do. I have found this to be a really comforting ritual to do before the day begins. 

Even on my way to work I was hoping Spirit 105.3 would calm me down. Nope. I was still feeling sorry for myself and overwhelmed again by the next couple days ahead.  And as I write this, I continue to be anxious about life, work and the days ahead (insert pity party...I am good at these). 

OK, God, I am ready for you to take these feelings away from me!  Nope, still nothing. Still anxious. Still impatient. Huh? Where are you?

God never promised every day is going to be stress free and perfect. No, we will go through trials and tribulations. And I am not going to sit here and write that I am perfectly OK with these days because honestly those days suck. They are draining. 

But I do know enough that God says wait patiently for Him. Do not be anxious about anything. So, I will God. I will sit here wait for You and reflect on the truth when You say "Trust Me and Refuse to Worry. "

 "Wait on the Lord. Be of good courage and He shall strengthen your heart." -Psalm 27:14

...To be Continued. 

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Welcome to the World Jace Madill!

Meet my beautiful and perfect little nephew! Born Saturday September 22!

"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows."

James 1:17 

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Friday Thoughts!

Tomorrow evening is one of our biggest athletic events in terms of importance when making a significant and lasting good impression to our freshman! It is our freshman orientation game. We hold a fun pep rally in Martin Square with trivia games, prizes, a ton of rah! rah! And then all 500 or so freshman walk down to Interbay stadium for a night of soccer. This year our women soccer team is playing against Central Washington. It is almost 5:30pm on a Friday night and I am still at work getting this event organized. Lots of planning goes in to this event and of course I have to make it better than last year! J

However, about an hour ago my sister called and told me her water broke (insert panic button). Really?  Now? Before THIS event Jace has decided to make his grand entrance into the world. After I took a moment to first just breathe, I then took a moment to pray. I prayed first for the health and protection over Beth, Kevin and Baby Jace. Secondly, for strength for the next couple days.  With the physical state I am in (only getting 5 hours of sleep last night getting back from the Puyallup fair, anxiety for the event tomorrow and a new nephew) I knew I couldn’t do it on my own!

Here comes the biggest athletic event of the season AND the birth of my first nephew! My mom always told me that God has a sense of humor J

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Anyway, as I was going about today this Desiring God Blog Post came through my email and I wanted to make sure I wrote it down.

"Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him… in whatever condition each was called, there let him remain with God. "

1 Corinthians 7:17, 24



Because it is fall and beautiful.

According to 1 Corinthians 7:17–24, our job (assuming it’s not inherently unethical or immoral) is an assignment from God. That doesn’t mean it’s a permanent assignment, but it’s today’s assignment.
And God wants us to carry out that assignment with dependent faith, diligence, and excellence.

God may call us someday as a vocational minister. He may not. But wherever he assigns us, “remain with God."

Make it your mission “to take what God has made and shape it and use it to make him look great.”

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When Little Things Dont Go as Planned

 

^"For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."

2 Corinthians 4:17-18

I get anxious a lot. I always worry. I always let the little things get the best of me.

For example, this is going to be my fifth year of working in events for SPU. I have managed over hundreds of SPU athletic events ranging from pre season games to hosting regional championships. Thankfully, I am blessed with an amazing staff and student workers, and every event, game, or promotion has been successful. In fact, if you asked me to name a time when I felt like I lost totally control I wouldn't be able to tell you. However, even after multiple events I still get anxious about every. single. event. Every single one! I want things to go smoothly. I want my student workers to work hard. I want them to do it right the first time. I want the coaches to be happy with the promotions. I want to the crowd to enjoy the event. I take much pride in the way the events are ran because I view that as a reflection of myself and my work ethic and character.

Well, this obviously isn't the way God intended us to live. In worry, in anxiety, in fear of failure of not just the big events but I was anxious about the if the popcorn machine would worked! Talk about control freak!

Let me give you an example of how sometimes my anxiety gets the best of me. Yesterday during a "big event" in my book. Our women's soccer was playing Western which always draws lots of fans, including lots of youth. Well, we had a couple youth teams come to be ball girls and I also decided that it should be an autograph night. I got the go ahead from the head coach so I was set on that. However, I got an email from a parent the day before confused and to me sounded a little angry about the pricing and what their involvement was to be ball girls. Well, of course as soon as I read that email I shut down.  I immediately started doubting my communication skills, my lack of focus and of course my ability to be a good event manager! This was all within one second of when I read the email. Are you kidding me Jessie! I wrote her back and apologized. However, that email still caused me to worry even before the game started!

However, God sures blessed me and again knows exactly what I need. Before the game started, the women from the email sought me out and apologized so sweetly about her email. She said she re-read it and she never meant to have it sound like she did. She said she was so grateful for the way I handle the email and was so willing to help her out. I was so thankful for the way God knew exactly what I needed and knew exactly what "little thing" was weighing on my heart.

" A man's steps are directed by the Lord. How then can anyone understand his own way." proverbs 20:24

Though it will take more practice and prayer to fully not let the little things get to me. This morning during my devotion, God once again reminded me that when I seek Him first  when those "little" things arise, they will really become only little things.

When little things don't go as you had hoped, continue to looked to Me lightheartedly and say, "Oh well."  This simple disciple can protect you from being burdened with an accumulation of petty cares and frustrations. You will realize that most of the things that you worry about are not important. If you shrug them off immediately and return your focus on Me, you will walk through your days with lighter steps and a joyful heart.

Beautiful evening for soccer!

Morning devotion from Jesus Calling 9/20/12

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Mentoring Program

The Mentoring Program is a season-long partnership beginning in September and culminating in June at the Annual Convention. Mentors and Mentees will be encouraged to communicate at least once a month and meet during the Convention.

Anytime I have the opportunity to develop my skills and gain knowledge in my field I will take it.
The National Association of Collegiate Marketing Administrators (NACMA) has developed a mentoring program designed to assist all members of NACMA by matching them with a veteran administrator who will provide guidance and serve as a resource for ideas.

We all know the struggles of balancing life while continuing to excel in this industry; and by spending a little time with a mentor or mentee, you could make a huge impact on someone’s career simply by sharing your knowledge and experiences. In addition, the Mentoring Program will provide you an opportunity to increase your network, learn from veterans in the industry, share ideas and serve as a resource for young professionals.

We had to answer some questions so they can pair us up easier (answers below).I am excited to see who they pair me up with. I am also excited to learn better ways in which I can be a better mentor to the student-athletes and my student workers.

 I hope this is the start of a great mentorship!

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What is your proudest athletics moment?

Our head men’s basketball coach is named Ryan Looney. Ryan mentioned at his last school they used to refer to his office as the Looney Bin. I then thought we would be fun to have a student section for the games called “The Looney Bin”. Before the game and Looney Bin debut, students where lining up to be a part of the Looney Bin! We even ran out of shirts for the students which I didn’t think were possible since getting students was a rare occurrence at some games. The proud moment was during a timeout the first half, I looked over at all the students cheering loudly, wearing the shirts and representing SPU. It was a simple moment, but the feeling of accomplishment and pride was overwhelming. 

What is your career goal?

This is a tough question for me and one I hope to fine tune this year and with the help of my mentor. When I first realized I wanted to get into sports administration I thought that I had to have the goal of becoming a big time athletic director. Even during grad school when people would ask I automatically mentioned athletic director because I thought that was the career goal I had to attain. However, throughout grad school, many informational interviews, experience, networking and major self discovery, I have learned that it is OK not to want to be an AD in this field. There are so many other areas in which I can grow, become successful and fulfilled!  I truly love what I am doing with marketing/promotions and events and can see this as an area I can grow into later in my career. Ultimately, I want to make the most impact on the student-athletes and their lives and I feel this area of marketing/events and because of the DII culture, I can have a role in the lives of the SA’s.

What do you hope to gain from the Mentoring Program this year?

I think having a mentor is very important for a career and in life. I hope to grow in my knowledge and understanding of my role in athletic administration. It would be nice to know that I am not alone in my struggles with my job, life and my balance. Networking is also huge in this industry to gain ideas and perspective on the ever changing athletic culture. Therefore, anytime I have the opportunity to learn how to be better at my job I will jump at it!  

What is your favorite thing to do when not at work?

The great thing about our career field is that it is not just a job, it is a lifestyle. I love being around the sporting events. I am passionate about SPU athletics and the student-athletes. I thrive off the competition and the fan atmosphere. However, one of the hardest things about this field is the time commitment. Most of my days/weekends are full of my work. I put in a lot of time into my job, not only so that I can be successful, make more money, etc., but to also invest in the student-athletes. Though this question is supposed to be a simple answer, I drew a complete blank on how to answer this question. What DO I do when I am not at work?

It was so easy for me to get caught up in having my job define me that I almost forgot I do have other interests! I like to read, hangout with my family and friends, workout, multiple daily visits to Starbucks J  Now, I am extremely blessed that I have a job I am so passionate about however, my job is not what defines me. Through this novel of an answer, I will say that my favorite, most fulfilling activity to do outside of work is to grow deeper in my relationship with Christ. Whether I am volunteering for children’s charities, advising my students for St. Jude fundraiser, fellowship with others or simply reading the Word, I want to know God better and grow more into the person He has created me to be. He is who defines me and my relationship with him. Thankfully, I have a job that gives me a platform to share those interests as well and encourages me to be a role model for those around me.

OK, off my soap box, I bet you didn’t think you would be getting that long of an answer! J

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Birthday celebration

"This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and me glad in it." Psalm 118:24

Thankful the lord has blessed me with 27 years of life and with many blessings. Here are some snap shots on how I celebrated my birthday this year!

The day started early (5:30am!) and did my usual routine of making breakfast (oatmeal pancakes) and daily devotion.  Nothing better then starting the day with with quiet time. 

I went into work for a couple hours before I headed home for the day. My sweet grandpa left a birthday message. Of course my daily stop at Starbucks and then lunch with my mom at The Windmill Bistro in Sumner. So far so good! 

The day ended with the Martina McBride concert at The Puyallup fair with the best birthday date ever :) 

This past year has been one of the most fulfilling, challenging, and eventful years of my life. I couldn't be more excited and anxious for the upcoming year and to see the plans God has in store for me.

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Paths of Adventure

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Never Forget

It was 11 years ago but seems like yesterday when the world came crashing down on American soil. I remember exactly what I was doing the morning of the attack. It was in the 6:00 hour and I was getting ready for school my sophomore year. My mom was downstairs watching the news as she was getting ready to leave as well. I heard her yell "Rob! Rob! Rob! Airplanes flew into the towers in New York." Then I heard something that still gives me chills. She said "They think it is a terrorist attack." Terrorist? I have heard the term but never had it affect me like it did that day. At school all our TV's were on the classes as we watch the devastation in New York. We watch as one tower fell, then two. I remember it was like a dream. Is this really happening? We are United States of America, the most powerful nation in the world. How does this happen? I remember one of my close guy friends mentioned that this would lead to war. War? Again, I hear over and over again but in the history books!


Being on the west coast, I would say that this really didn’t hit me until I started hearing the stories that followed; the airplanes that crashed into the Pennsylvania field and the Pentagon, the hero stories of the firemen who risked their lives for American people. The stories of bravery that our country was founded on. I will never forget the day.


 


As our country goes into election year, I pray that for one day, this day, that our country will put aside all judgement and differences and stand together as One Nation Under God that will always remember the day that forever changed America.

Let us never forget... Thankful for all the heroes of that day and praying for families still mourning the loss of loved ones.



Dear Heavenly Father, Today is a difficult day. The memories are painful and some of the wounds I fear may never heal. Yet I pray you will help me to go on living for truth, firm in my hope of your salvation. May I live for you, Lord, and by doing so, be an example to my friends and family. I pray, just like Jesus, I may learn obedience through these things that I have suffered. Help me not to question why, yet even if I do, give me courage to continue to trust you. Help me take the comfort and strength you've poured into my life and use it to comfort and strengthen others who need hope.  I pray I might become a better person and help make the world a better place because of this terrible event. Thank you for the heroes that gave so sacrificially on September 11. Help me to remember their courage and learn from them. I want my life to be worthy of you Lord, so make of it what you desire, and use me to fulfill your purposes. May the evil of that day cause me and my family to work harder to do good on this earth and to bring your light into the dark places. Help me to never stop believing in you and living my life for you. Lord, heal all those who were crushed and broken on that day. May they come to experience your presence and know your peace.Amen.

"Though the mountains be shaken and the hills removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed," says the LORD, who has compassion on you." -Isaiah 54:10



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Becoming a Woman of Beauty and Strength

I woke up at 6:15 this morning and have been very productive! I just can't believe how my lifestyle and perspective on the mornings has changed. I write about that concept a lot but it truly has changed my life! The time I spend in the Word is the most important part of my day and I find myself longing for that before I go to bed at night. I find it easier and easier to get up so I have that time to myself in the Word.

***Now if I only could get a good night routine and go to bed earlier!

The devotions I have been spending my time in are called, "Becoming a Woman After Gods Own Heart." Each devotional focuses on a book or person in the Bible and a topic that goes along with it. The author, Elizabeth George, then writes the chapter to reflect and relate to a woman and helps us better understand our role as a woman of faith. I have enjoyed these bible studies and have found myself longing to know more and more about God and my role a Christian woman! I can't tell you how much I have grown in my understanding as a future wife and mother, but most importantly as a woman of faith and child of God. Every day I desire to learn more and more! I can feel a huge change in my perspective on life and becoming a woman of faith. I know I have a ton of growing and more learning to do which, sometimes is overwhelming knowing how much I have been seriously lacking in my faith. However, God has constantly shown me His blessings, love and especially grace over me.

I still am in awe of how much I feel Gods love already. I am excited to see more of Him as I continue to eagerly seek Him more and more everyday.

The one I just started this morning!

Bible studies I have completed since Fall 2011:

Becoming a Woman After Gods Own Heart:

Proverbs 31: Discovering the Treasures of a Godly Woman.- FAVORITE! 

Luke: Living with Passion & Purpose

Sarah: Walking in God's Promises

1 Timothy: Pursuing Godliness

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Mercy Me

Do justice, Love Mercy, Walk humbly with your God...

I have been reading the book "The Resolution for Women" for a while now. It has taken me longer than I thought it would because it is not a novel that I can just skim through. It is not a mindless book.I like to take my time, highlight in it and really take in what I am reading. It makes me think about my life and pushes me to think about areas of my life that may need a little lot of reflection and changes. 

This last chapter the author talked about something that could not help wonder the same thing about my life. 

"I have been on a search my entire life. After accepting Christ at an early age, and then growing in my understanding through the years of what it meant to be a Christian, I began to wonder what He will for me was. I knew He had a purpose, one that He hadn't just concocted on the spur of the moment, one that He had carefully crafted beforehand (Ephesian 2:10), before I was even born. But I often felt like it eluded me, as though it was always just out of reach and out of sight. As a younger woman, when I was navigating which subjects to study, which opportunities to accept, and which direction to pursue, I regularly wished that God would be more clear, more forthright, more plainly obvious about what He wanted me to do at that particular pint in life." 

When Priscilla (author) mentioned that she thought that Gods Will had "eluded her as always out of reach and out of sight" is definitely something I can relate too. I have lived a life of following the rules, a moral and ethical life. I knew who Jesus was and what He did but I was just going through the motions. I felt like I have been "sleeping" through life and my eyes were never fully open to the purpose God has for me. I felt like I have been "waiting" for God to show me His will for my life. Waiting for Him to show himself to me so I can start getting busy!

 It wasn't until last fall, around October, when I committed myself to start praying more and doing daily devotions to know God more. And found Him I did and looking back at my life I have realized He has been there all along. Looking at where He has guided me too and the decisions I thought I made without Him, He helped me. Wow. 

"What if the disclosure of His continued purposed for your life is at least partly dependent on your obedience to what He is already set before you? What if He wants to see your level of faithfulness in responding to what you do know before He fills you in on what you don't? 

"He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." Micah 6:8

Doesn't get any clearer than that. "He has showed you." Never again can I say that I don't know what He requires of me, what His will is for my life. Sure, there is much more to unfold, and a lot of details left to discover. But this much I do know:

1. Do justice

2. Love mercy

3. Walk humbly with my God. 

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End of Summer Fun

I cant believe summer 2012 is over. It seemed like a whirlwind. Maybe with all the traveling I did it felt like I didn't get much of a summer. However, I got MUCH out of this summer with all my trips and experiences.

Labor day weekend was the perfect opportunity to take a trip to Portland to visit the Frieses'. I have not seen Jackie since she came to visit in April so I was due for a visit. She also is recovering from Achilles surgery and I knew the weekend would consist of clearing up her DVR, Starbucks, and football!

It was a perfect end to an amazing summer!

My first road trip of the summer! I was ready to go! How did the Mariah Carey Holiday album get in there? (I may or may not have listened to it on the way down). 

I really do enjoy the feeling of going on road trips. I enjoy the feeling of adventure, the possibility to discovering and exploring, and the peacefulness of driving. There were many times on my way down to Portland that I was tempted to stop at a small town and explore. I need to take more in 2013. 

Saturday night we met up with our teammate Kelsey Hill! We had an amazing dinner downtown Lake Oswego and of course dessert consisted of frozen yogurt. 

Lots of pictures!

Jackie treated me to a pedicure for my birthday! LOTS of Starbucks trips and of course opening season for football! Go Huskies and Seahawks!

Nothing says summer like a fruit stand on the side of the road. After church Sunday we stop and stocked up on fruit.

It was a great trip to catch up with Jackie and Evan. This weekend reminded me of all our great memories we have had together. Jackie and I have the type of friendship that even if we don't talk for a few weeks, we can catch up like it has only been a day. We get each other in our conversations and respect each others decisions in life. I miss having Jackie live closer and wish it were easier to grab Starbucks and lose ourselves in a conversations, however I always enjoy going down to visit her and the life they have created down in Oregon. I love seeing them grow as a couple and as faithful Christ followers. 

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