I don't know why, but recently I've been thinking about how precious life is and how in one second, everything can be changed forever. For me, that is so scary to think about. It causes me to be a worry wart, especially in crazy weather like tonight.
In the news there was a story about 4 college girls that were in a car accident, killing all four. Just think about that. Those were someone's daughters, maybe someone's sisters, friends, cousins, granddaughter...& BAM. Gone. Not for the week...but forever.
Now, I don't want to make it sound like I'm afraid of dying & as a Christian, I like to believe that I am going to Heaven, and from what I believe, it's perfect there. (I'm hoping for a couple malls....ice cream shops...and money trees) But the unknown is always scary.
For the past two weeks, I noticed that the girl that usually sits by me in class was gone. Today, she came back and the background of her computer was of the four girls killed in the accident with a big red heart, written inside was "Best Friends Forever". I couldn't help, but let my mind wonder when I saw that. That could have been my face, or even yours. That also could have been you or I putting someone we loved as our background, while our hearts were left aching & our lives forever being changed as well.That morning I had been thinking about how stressed I was and how I couldn't wait for the weekend, but what never crossed my mind was....what if the weekend never came?
Life is precious. Tim Mcgraw said it perfectly, "live like you're dying." But for me, it's not always that easy. I can't just hop on a plane to Africa tomorrow, because while living like I'm dying, I have to plan for the possible future. But that doesn't mean, I can't smile at the people passing by, I can't hold the door for the UPS guy carrying a bunch of boxes, it doesn't mean I can't send random letters to friends and texts to families reminding them how much they mean to me.
Life is bittersweet. Take advantage of every moment and don't forget to smile & enjoy the little things. When it comes to the end, you might not regret the missed tripped to Florida as much as you would, the missed hug from a loved one.
If you're reading this, thank you. Now go show someone that you care. & don't forget to count your blessings along this mysterious adventure we call life.
& in memory of one of my heroes, Mr. Hogan....CARPE DIEM----SEIZE THE DAY.
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Public Speaking < Anything else
I'll never forget that day in 7th grade when I was standing up in front of my entire class, and all of a sudden I couldn't speak. I was scared they were judging me, making fun of me in my their minds, and picking apart everything I was saying. That day forever changed me. It's funny...I can remember exactly what I was wearing. A grey Wisconsin sweatshirt with my hair tied back. I went home in a panic wondering if there was something wrong with me. I was so embarrased.
Why do we work ourselves up over the silliest things? So what if they don't agree with what I'm saying, who cares if I screw up on a sentence. I'm human. To this day, I find myself before speaking, questioning if I'm saying it right and making sure I don't make myself look stupid. (which happens often) & you know what....that is what makes memories, and conversations fun. And guess what? I bet most people don't even remember this day in 7th grade, yet I thought it was the end of the world.
I'm going to be a teacher someday. & being up in front of 30 people is going to be a daily task. I admire those that have no fear, that can speak clear and confident, but I'm working towards that!
Tonight I was helping out with some confirmation students here at Stout, and I was assigned a group to talk to about my experiences. For some reason, I wasn't too nervous. I don't know if it was God guiding me, or my confidence growing. When I sat down with these students and started talking, I noticed myself picking up more on the eyes wondering and finger twitching, but hardly noticed when I saw head nods and smiles. Then I remembered that it didn't matter if they didn't agree, or if I wasn't the comedian of the show. I was proud of myself for at least putting myself out there. Once I relaxed, so did the group.
From time to time we have to remind ourselves that changes don't happen over night. It takes experiences and time to change. Not focusing on the negative will give you a more positive outcome. I guess my advice to myself and others seeking a change is: Deep Breath. Happy Thoughts. Patience.
Why do we work ourselves up over the silliest things? So what if they don't agree with what I'm saying, who cares if I screw up on a sentence. I'm human. To this day, I find myself before speaking, questioning if I'm saying it right and making sure I don't make myself look stupid. (which happens often) & you know what....that is what makes memories, and conversations fun. And guess what? I bet most people don't even remember this day in 7th grade, yet I thought it was the end of the world.
I'm going to be a teacher someday. & being up in front of 30 people is going to be a daily task. I admire those that have no fear, that can speak clear and confident, but I'm working towards that!
Tonight I was helping out with some confirmation students here at Stout, and I was assigned a group to talk to about my experiences. For some reason, I wasn't too nervous. I don't know if it was God guiding me, or my confidence growing. When I sat down with these students and started talking, I noticed myself picking up more on the eyes wondering and finger twitching, but hardly noticed when I saw head nods and smiles. Then I remembered that it didn't matter if they didn't agree, or if I wasn't the comedian of the show. I was proud of myself for at least putting myself out there. Once I relaxed, so did the group.
From time to time we have to remind ourselves that changes don't happen over night. It takes experiences and time to change. Not focusing on the negative will give you a more positive outcome. I guess my advice to myself and others seeking a change is: Deep Breath. Happy Thoughts. Patience.
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Someone's trash is another's treasure.
After signing a lease for an apartment for next fall, all my mind can think about on it's spare time (and not so spare time) is how I want to decorate! I have always imagined my very own apartment. Somewhere I can express myself and invite people to share with. The funny thing is, I'm a college student and I can hardly afford tuition. A few summers ago my friend and I decided we wanted to go "antiquing" and because of the fun treasures we found, it has now become a tradition. The first time I found a huge, old, turquoise trunk that now is my "memory trunk" and sits at the end of my bed. The next adventure, I found an old window that now hangs above my dresser. Now whenever I see any "we sell antiques here" signs I smile. It wasn't just about the treasures my friend and I found on this trip, it was seeing the history and making memories ourselves.
This past weekend I was at Saver's--a second hand store that never disappoints me. I've never paid more then $8 for anything there and I've bought anything from a vase to a dresser. I LOVE IT. This weekend I found myself a new pair of bright red flats--$3. I learned from my mom...never buy anything unless it's on sale and now, anything over $15 is way too much, but that's okay because I love the search. Thanks Mom.
When I was trying on the cute flats I over heard a mom and her son--I would guess he was about 12 years old.
"Mom, why did someone want to get rid of such an awesome pair of snow pants?" This caught my attention and I immediately looked up and a man next to me was also smiling. I thought to myself...exactly. Perhaps the person giving them away had grown out of them, or gotten a new pair for Christmas, but now this boy had found a treasure. A miny February Christmas. All for probably $4.
It's the simple things in life.
That's my favorite thing about second-hand stores or even garage sales. You never know what you are going to find, but some one's trash has now become your treasure. How wonderful? We can give away things we now see as trash & make it some one's treasure. I guess that goes for a lot of things...like last week for example, I was dumping out some old hot dish and my friend said "wait, are you really going to throw that away?" Immediately I felt greedy for throwing away something that was perfectly good, but it was taking up too much room in my fridge, "I'll take it." she said. Even something as simple as food, can be a treasure. Or how about ex lovers. Come on ladies...don't act like you don't know. Someone you found to be very annoying and over protective can end up being some one's prince charming because they find the characteristics delightful that you had found to be "deal breakers." To each their own, I always say.
Now, some people may walk into savers and not have the patience to dig, or think it smells funny, or maybe they just want non-used items. It really depends on the person. I'm a born-to-be shopper and recent crafter. I like making old into new & putting my "own touches" into the end product. Plus, I find it kind of exciting to know it's been other places.
All I'm sure of, is that the trash you're hoarding or willingly giving away, is waiting to be some one's treasure. So, don't be afraid...you never know what you'll find in return. As for me, I'm going to literally be "walking in someone else's shoes." Cool.
This past weekend I was at Saver's--a second hand store that never disappoints me. I've never paid more then $8 for anything there and I've bought anything from a vase to a dresser. I LOVE IT. This weekend I found myself a new pair of bright red flats--$3. I learned from my mom...never buy anything unless it's on sale and now, anything over $15 is way too much, but that's okay because I love the search. Thanks Mom.
When I was trying on the cute flats I over heard a mom and her son--I would guess he was about 12 years old.
"Mom, why did someone want to get rid of such an awesome pair of snow pants?" This caught my attention and I immediately looked up and a man next to me was also smiling. I thought to myself...exactly. Perhaps the person giving them away had grown out of them, or gotten a new pair for Christmas, but now this boy had found a treasure. A miny February Christmas. All for probably $4.
It's the simple things in life.
That's my favorite thing about second-hand stores or even garage sales. You never know what you are going to find, but some one's trash has now become your treasure. How wonderful? We can give away things we now see as trash & make it some one's treasure. I guess that goes for a lot of things...like last week for example, I was dumping out some old hot dish and my friend said "wait, are you really going to throw that away?" Immediately I felt greedy for throwing away something that was perfectly good, but it was taking up too much room in my fridge, "I'll take it." she said. Even something as simple as food, can be a treasure. Or how about ex lovers. Come on ladies...don't act like you don't know. Someone you found to be very annoying and over protective can end up being some one's prince charming because they find the characteristics delightful that you had found to be "deal breakers." To each their own, I always say.
Now, some people may walk into savers and not have the patience to dig, or think it smells funny, or maybe they just want non-used items. It really depends on the person. I'm a born-to-be shopper and recent crafter. I like making old into new & putting my "own touches" into the end product. Plus, I find it kind of exciting to know it's been other places.
All I'm sure of, is that the trash you're hoarding or willingly giving away, is waiting to be some one's treasure. So, don't be afraid...you never know what you'll find in return. As for me, I'm going to literally be "walking in someone else's shoes." Cool.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Faith. Hope. & Love.
FAITH. Such a simple word, with such a deep meaning. Well, to me anyway. HOPE. A four letter word that gets millions of people through the day. and of course, LOVE. The word every one seeks in some form & can change a person in an instant. I never really thought about these words much before college, but they all connect together. One of my favorite Bible verses is Romans 12:12 "Let your hope make you glad. Be patient in time of trouble & never stop praying." The first time I heard that, it comforted me. Read it again.
So, I pictured college to be a party every night and get to homework if I had time. Now, don't get me wrong, I love to socialize and have a good time, but my fun may be different from yours, & I'm learning that, that is perfectly okay. I tried the Thirsty Thursday thing and all, but I found I'd much rather be with a bunch of close friends, laughing, playing games, and maybe having a few drinks here and there, but to be honest, I'm perfectly fine cuddled up on the couch reading a book on a Thursday night. A favorite quote of mine "Don't feel stupid if you don't like what everyone else pretends to love." I'm not saying people don't honestly enjoy "partying," but I know a lot of people that feel like they "have to" & that makes me sad. I was one of them.
Which brings me to my main point. When I lived with my parents we went to church every Sunday and I prayed here and there, but getting to college opened my eyes. I was on my own. I could skip church, I could skip class, I could have ice cream for breakfast. But what I found funny, was I didn't want to do those things. I liked how things were. The first few weeks were tough for me, I'll be honest. I was home sick and a lot of my new friends didn't have the same "idea of fun," and I wasn't sure I was in the right major.
So, I prayed.
At this time I was looking for an apartment for the following year and was stressed about not having a roommate, then I was stressed because I never was in a spot with "no close friends" before & was constantly wondering if I was in the right major.
So, God answered.
That Monday, I met this nice girl in the waffle line at lunch. We talked and laughed, but never exchanged names. That same week I got a job at the "Child Care Center" and met an amazing teacher that kept telling me I needed to switch my major, because "I was a natural teacher." Then, when walking to class I got an e-mail saying there was a "Catholic Newman Organization" that week. Long story short, a few days passed and I had a lot of hope with my new job & all. I patiently waited for that "Newman" get together because I knew it'd help my faith grow. That night that I walked to that new organization, I saw the "waffle" girl, and the priest announced that there was an opening for an apartment that the church was renting out for next year. After that week, how couldn't I believe!?
I apologize for such a long post, but it's something I really wanted to share. Now, every morning I read a verse out of my Bible and try to ponder on it through out the day. What troubles are you facing? Is your hope making you glad? Are you being patient in time of trouble? and most importantly, are you praying?
P.S. A week after these amazing "signs" I switched my major to Early Childhood Education, with a minor in my old major-Human Development and Family Studies. Let the journey begin!
So, I pictured college to be a party every night and get to homework if I had time. Now, don't get me wrong, I love to socialize and have a good time, but my fun may be different from yours, & I'm learning that, that is perfectly okay. I tried the Thirsty Thursday thing and all, but I found I'd much rather be with a bunch of close friends, laughing, playing games, and maybe having a few drinks here and there, but to be honest, I'm perfectly fine cuddled up on the couch reading a book on a Thursday night. A favorite quote of mine "Don't feel stupid if you don't like what everyone else pretends to love." I'm not saying people don't honestly enjoy "partying," but I know a lot of people that feel like they "have to" & that makes me sad. I was one of them.
Which brings me to my main point. When I lived with my parents we went to church every Sunday and I prayed here and there, but getting to college opened my eyes. I was on my own. I could skip church, I could skip class, I could have ice cream for breakfast. But what I found funny, was I didn't want to do those things. I liked how things were. The first few weeks were tough for me, I'll be honest. I was home sick and a lot of my new friends didn't have the same "idea of fun," and I wasn't sure I was in the right major.
So, I prayed.
At this time I was looking for an apartment for the following year and was stressed about not having a roommate, then I was stressed because I never was in a spot with "no close friends" before & was constantly wondering if I was in the right major.
So, God answered.
That Monday, I met this nice girl in the waffle line at lunch. We talked and laughed, but never exchanged names. That same week I got a job at the "Child Care Center" and met an amazing teacher that kept telling me I needed to switch my major, because "I was a natural teacher." Then, when walking to class I got an e-mail saying there was a "Catholic Newman Organization" that week. Long story short, a few days passed and I had a lot of hope with my new job & all. I patiently waited for that "Newman" get together because I knew it'd help my faith grow. That night that I walked to that new organization, I saw the "waffle" girl, and the priest announced that there was an opening for an apartment that the church was renting out for next year. After that week, how couldn't I believe!?
I apologize for such a long post, but it's something I really wanted to share. Now, every morning I read a verse out of my Bible and try to ponder on it through out the day. What troubles are you facing? Is your hope making you glad? Are you being patient in time of trouble? and most importantly, are you praying?
P.S. A week after these amazing "signs" I switched my major to Early Childhood Education, with a minor in my old major-Human Development and Family Studies. Let the journey begin!
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Don't judge a book by it's cover.
I like to think of myself as a very non-judgemental person, but today that thought was put to test.
The saying "Don't judge a book by it's cover"...is simply saying..."Don't judge a person by their appearance because there is a whole lot to get to know on the inside." So, today. I'm in this packaging class with like 9 billion people, it's a huge lecture hall. Gives me a panic attack just walkin in. Well anyways, we were put into group for our final project and today we found out who the group members were. Well, let me back up....The teacher had set up signs around the room of the group number/members and she told us to all march around like zoo animals until we found the right place. Sounds like a fun activity at 10 on a Tuesday, right? Wrong. Guess who was the last zoo animal to find their spot? ME. Everyone had found their name and here I was going around to each one, one more time to see if I saw my last name. Here I am, turning beat red and feeling eyes stare.
Once I get to my seat, my head down in embarrassment..I look up to see this girl in dread locks, looking like she hadn't slept in days; this guy that hasn't showered in 2 weeks, and a boy that was definitely a freshmen...and definitely couldn't speak 3 words in English. Now Stop. Think of what I just said....How Judgemental of me!? Right away I thought, oh great....In another group where I will have to do all of the work again.
Fast forward a few minutes....and these people are spitting out answers, organizing meeting times, and giving great ideas! Here I was...the girl that couldn't even read her own name on a sheet, judging them by their appearance alone. Assuming each of their personalities based on what I saw on the surfice.
I hope that the next time I'm faced with this test, or you are in a similiar situation, we remember every book has a story to tell.
Stephanie Katherine
The saying "Don't judge a book by it's cover"...is simply saying..."Don't judge a person by their appearance because there is a whole lot to get to know on the inside." So, today. I'm in this packaging class with like 9 billion people, it's a huge lecture hall. Gives me a panic attack just walkin in. Well anyways, we were put into group for our final project and today we found out who the group members were. Well, let me back up....The teacher had set up signs around the room of the group number/members and she told us to all march around like zoo animals until we found the right place. Sounds like a fun activity at 10 on a Tuesday, right? Wrong. Guess who was the last zoo animal to find their spot? ME. Everyone had found their name and here I was going around to each one, one more time to see if I saw my last name. Here I am, turning beat red and feeling eyes stare.
Once I get to my seat, my head down in embarrassment..I look up to see this girl in dread locks, looking like she hadn't slept in days; this guy that hasn't showered in 2 weeks, and a boy that was definitely a freshmen...and definitely couldn't speak 3 words in English. Now Stop. Think of what I just said....How Judgemental of me!? Right away I thought, oh great....In another group where I will have to do all of the work again.
Fast forward a few minutes....and these people are spitting out answers, organizing meeting times, and giving great ideas! Here I was...the girl that couldn't even read her own name on a sheet, judging them by their appearance alone. Assuming each of their personalities based on what I saw on the surfice.
I hope that the next time I'm faced with this test, or you are in a similiar situation, we remember every book has a story to tell.
Stephanie Katherine
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Home Sweet Home
After a busy week of college life, there is no feeling quite like the one, knowing you are going home for the weekend. I never really realized how good I had it. The moment I walk in, my cat is there to greet me, there is some sort of treat on the counter, and usually the smell of supper cooking. Not to mention, that when I take a shower... I don't have to wear flip flops!
Speaking of unique feelings...how about the feeling of "growing up." First you go through high school counting down the days until you move away, and once you get there....you count the days until you get to go home. Grass is always greener.... One of the smallest things that I missed about home, was knowing everyone. My friend from college was driving me home one weekend, and when we got into alma center she said to me "how do you know every person that is driving passed us?" That was something that I would have never noticed, but I instantly smiled. It's just something only the people from Alma Center can understand. I love that small town feel. Comfort.
Don't get me wrong, I've met a lot of great people! College is fun & I'm right where I'm supposed to be. Where I grew up will just always give me that special feeling...something we all miss from time to time. A little girl at the preschool (where I work) was sitting in the corner with her head in her hands & when I walked up to her I noticed she was crying. I immeditely said "what's wrong sweetie?" she looked up and said "I just miss my mom." Now, a lot of the time the kids are crying over things that I know are "silly" but this really touched my heart. I knelt down by her and said "I know just how you feel. I miss my mom sometimes too." Right then, a little girl came up and said "Come on, let's go play."
Sometimes all you need is a good cry and an understanding friend.
-Stephanie Katerine
Speaking of unique feelings...how about the feeling of "growing up." First you go through high school counting down the days until you move away, and once you get there....you count the days until you get to go home. Grass is always greener.... One of the smallest things that I missed about home, was knowing everyone. My friend from college was driving me home one weekend, and when we got into alma center she said to me "how do you know every person that is driving passed us?" That was something that I would have never noticed, but I instantly smiled. It's just something only the people from Alma Center can understand. I love that small town feel. Comfort.
Don't get me wrong, I've met a lot of great people! College is fun & I'm right where I'm supposed to be. Where I grew up will just always give me that special feeling...something we all miss from time to time. A little girl at the preschool (where I work) was sitting in the corner with her head in her hands & when I walked up to her I noticed she was crying. I immeditely said "what's wrong sweetie?" she looked up and said "I just miss my mom." Now, a lot of the time the kids are crying over things that I know are "silly" but this really touched my heart. I knelt down by her and said "I know just how you feel. I miss my mom sometimes too." Right then, a little girl came up and said "Come on, let's go play."
Sometimes all you need is a good cry and an understanding friend.
-Stephanie Katerine
Thursday, February 9, 2012
One day at a time. 2/9/2012
This past month I was introduced to Pinterest. Shocker right? It seems that everyone under the sun has discovered the fabulous site! Well anyways, before I knew it 5 hours passed by and soon I had a board full of pins that I found so exciting and there sat my homework. One of those pins, was a new hair style that I was dying to try out. It came from a women's blog where she talked about her fashion, life, and funny stories. I was so inspired. Kind of like sharing parts of your diary with others. Long story short, here I am.
When I had to think of something to name my blog, I froze. I wanted something "catchy" but not "cheesy," something "unique" but not "weird." Then I started doubting myself thinking, well what if I am boring...If I'm not "good" at it. Then I found myself taking a deep breath and remembered how much I had enjoyed the woman's blog about her new hair style, and how it had brought joy to my day (plus I'm always up for a new hair idea). Which is why I came up with Deep Breath. Happy Thoughts. Simply meaning, everyone, including myself, forgets to step back, and enjoy.
& like a wise teacher once told me- "Carpe Diem--Seize the day."
I love the saying "Not everyday is good, but there is something good in everyday," and that's exactly my goal for this blog. It'll be a way for me not just to go through the motions of everyday, but to really think about the "good" and of course sometimes the "bad" and reflect what that day taught me, and hopefully I can open your eyes along the way too.
So for tomorrow keep in mind, Deep Breath. Happy Thoughts. . . ENJOY.
-Stephanie Katherine
"Let your hope make you glad, Be patient in time of trouble, and never stop praying"
Romans 12:12
When I had to think of something to name my blog, I froze. I wanted something "catchy" but not "cheesy," something "unique" but not "weird." Then I started doubting myself thinking, well what if I am boring...If I'm not "good" at it. Then I found myself taking a deep breath and remembered how much I had enjoyed the woman's blog about her new hair style, and how it had brought joy to my day (plus I'm always up for a new hair idea). Which is why I came up with Deep Breath. Happy Thoughts. Simply meaning, everyone, including myself, forgets to step back, and enjoy.
& like a wise teacher once told me- "Carpe Diem--Seize the day."
I love the saying "Not everyday is good, but there is something good in everyday," and that's exactly my goal for this blog. It'll be a way for me not just to go through the motions of everyday, but to really think about the "good" and of course sometimes the "bad" and reflect what that day taught me, and hopefully I can open your eyes along the way too.
So for tomorrow keep in mind, Deep Breath. Happy Thoughts. . . ENJOY.
-Stephanie Katherine
"Let your hope make you glad, Be patient in time of trouble, and never stop praying"
Romans 12:12
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