We're ENGAGED!!!!

I guess it doesn't take long after looking at the title of this blog to figure out what it's about!

Rob and I are getting married!!!!!!!!!!!!

We got engaged on December 11th.....Rob's 24th birthday! I guess that makes it easy to remember for him! lol. We were out at the barn visiting my horse. As we were putting Poco back in his stall and getting ready to pack up, Rob dropped to his knee. My heart stopped as I was convinced he was joking. He had in his hand a small box which he was unable to open! I believe his exact words were (with a giant smile on his face) "Wanna get married?!" I then asked if he was joking. He said no and that there was a ring in the box if he could just figure out how to open it! lol. I started crying, he fidgeted some more and within several minutes I was wearing a beautiful diamond ring and laughing at how he failed so hard trying to get it out of the box! Needless to say, the proposal was very Rob! It was the perfect setting and I couldn't have pictured it happening any other way. We are so very excited!!!! We haven't done too much planning as of yet due to Christmas and New Years, but are looking forward to getting things rolling soon! It's a little overwhelming knowing that we have to plan an entire wedding but the support and encouragement we have received from family and friends has been incredible. I have full confidence that we are going to have as much help with the planning that we need!

I hope that everyone had a wonderful Christmas time and an enjoyable New Years. May you all be blessed throughout 2011!

Peace.

Make History

Hi all,

Sorry it's been so long since I posted. These last few weeks have been so crazy. Time has absolutely flown by. Much has happened which I hope to update you with in the near future.

As the end of 2010 is upon us, the tradition that my sister and I have held for years is that when Christmas rolls around, we sit and think back throughout the year remembering all that has happened. It's hard enough to believe that another year has passed us by, but it's also thrilling to look back and remember everything that you encountered that year. I find that as I get older, the years seem to go by faster. I'm not sure whether that happens because life gets busy or perhaps because I have a better understanding of time as an adult. Regardless, the days seem to fly by. I don't think that I help that problem at all. I sit at work for 8 hours watching the time tick by and wishing it would move faster so I don't have to be at work anymore. Not because I dislike my job, but because I would rather be at home. But as I sit and wish that time would move faster, I don't realize how quickly the day goes by. Before I know it another week has finished, then another month and as Christmas approaches, another entire year has passed me by. This year is no different. It is December the 18th today. Exactly one week until Christmas and two weeks until we welcome the beginning of 2011. As I sat and pondered my view on time, I realized how often I wish it would move faster. It is rare that we wish time would slow down or stop. We live in a culture that is very time conscious. We focus entirely too much on what we have to do the next day or the next week. We don't take the days as they come and appreciate the time we have. We rush through each day and then ask ourselves at the end of the year "where has the time gone?!" Crazily enough, we hoped this would happen. We try to rush through each day, why not just rush through the year? What's the difference?

The difference, my friends, is that none of that time is coming back. Once it's gone, it's history. There is no chance for a repeat, we cannot rewind and try again, its over. I for one, am now very aware of the fact that I spend too much time wishing that time would go faster. I waste my time thinking about these things rather than using the time in the best possible ways.

As I sit and realize that in two short weeks, we will be welcoming the beginning of a brand new year. One that we know will be filled with many different activities, adventures, heartbreak and laughter. One that we may find ourselves wishing would go faster. But being aware of how fast time really does pass us by, my new years resolution this year is to make the most of it. To not spend any time wishing that the day would go by faster. To enjoy each moment. To learn from every mistake. To cherish every person. That time is precious. It may be taken away at any moment. I don't want to find myself sitting here again next Christmas writing about this same topic and wondering where the year went. I want to be writing that the time was well spent. That I learned and that I grew. I want to make the most of my new year. This 2011 will be the only 2011 we ever have. This day, this month, this year will NEVER be repeated again. This is it. This is going to be history. I want to make history. Not for the books but a history in my life. I want to make this year a year of memories. I want to take advantage of every opportunity.

What will you do with the new year? Don't let it pass you by. Don't rush time. Stop and pay attention.

Make History.

The Rivers'

Rob and I at the wedding
My beautiful Katie friend
Besties!!! Ash looking beautiful on her wedding day!
The new Mr. & Mrs. Rivers

Hi friends!

On October 30,2010 one of my very best friends Ashleigh got married!!!!! I got the privilege of walking through the wedding preparations with her. From dress shopping, to hair conversations to bachelorette partying to actually participating on the big day! It was a beautiful day! The ceremony took place at the Heritage College chapel. It was a lovely ceremony where we witnessed Jake and Ashleigh celebrate the beginning of their lives together by sharing promises and rings. I got the honor of reading Scripture at the wedding. I read from Ephesians. A beautiful passage about Grace. After the ceremony, Katie, Nathaniel, Tricia and Rob and I went to eat a delicious lunch at one of our favorite Thai food places! We enjoyed a wonderful lunch together. We then headed to the reception which was at the Pusclinch Community Centre. We enjoyed some delicious desserts and dancing! Katie and I ran a game for the new couple - The Shoe Game. The Bride and Groom sit back to back and answer different questions about themselves by raising the shoe of the person they think would best fit the question. It was alot of fun and they got a lot of laughs! We danced the night away celebrating the new union. At the end of the night, Ash's mom offered me to take a flower centre piece home with me. It was a beautiful decoration that I was honored to take home - and more than that, a beautiful memory.

It was a fabulous evening celebrating lovely friends and their love for each other.

Congrats Ash & Jake! Love you Both!

Peace.

The Bakelaar's

Rob and I after the ceremony
Rob and I together at the reception
Beautiful girls looking lovely!!
Todd, Rob and Joel looking handsome as groomsman
The happy couple looking fabulous and beautiful!

Hi friends!

On Friday October the 15th, we had the privilege of attending the marriage of very good friends Tricia and Nathaniel! Rob had a busy week as he had the honor of standing up with Nathaniel at his wedding. The ceremony took place at First Christian Reformed Church in Guelph and the reception was at the Puslinch community centre. The men wore bright orange shirts with white ties and the ladies, lovely orange dresses. The ceremony was a celebration of the love between two people and the grace that allowed them to be standing together that day. It was a beautiful ceremony filled with singing and joyful celebration as we witnessed the two become one. After the ceremony, we made our way to the community centre where we enjoyed a fabulous evening of soup, laughter and dancing. It was a fabulous day and we're so happy for the newly married couple!

Congrats Nathaniel and Tricia!

Wandering

Hi friends!

It feels like it has been forever since I've written! These last few weeks have been craziness! With working and a couple weddings we've attended - the days have just flown by! It's pretty crazy to believe that we've already entered November! Where has this year gone?? I guess I should back track a little to share with you the excitement of the last few weeks! (I will do this in a couple of different blogs in order to share all the pictures and details!)

(Us with our sweet Reid's treats!)

One of the best weekends that Rob and I have shared together was a couple weeks ago. We spent a rainy Saturday afternoon together downtown Galt. Starting with a delicious meal at one of our favorite Thai restaurants The Red Basil. We then meandered down town and spent several hours looking in and around all the little shops. The used book store, a little novelty shop, Christian book store and used store. It was such a wonderful time spent together walking and talking and browsing. We ended the afternoon by stopping at Reid's Chocolate shop and getting a little sweet treat! It was a wonderful relaxing afternoon in the midst of a crazy busy month.

Keep checking back for the blogs about the wonderful weddings we were privileged to attend! I hope to have pictures and details uploaded in the next week or so!!!

Peace.

Temporary Home

Hi friends,

I just wanted to share with you a song that I heard and actually listened to the lyrics of earlier this week. I am already a big Carrie Underwood fan and I have loved most of the music she has put out. On her most recent album (of which Mandy got me for Christmas last year! Thanks Bob!) she has a song titled Temporary Home. I had the CD in while I was driving to work the other day and this song came on. I've heard it before, but never been in the situation where I actually listened to the lyrics. When it started I was almost tempted to switch it to something upbeat to keep me alert during my drive but I didn't. I am so glad I didn't. As the song started, I knew right away it was going to be something touching. As the chorus started I got goose bumps. As soon as the song finished I immediately turned it back to the beginning and listened to it again. Now those of you who drive with me understand that I have a problem - I am physically unable to listen to the entire recording of a song - I always switch it. This song was so different. I believe that I actually listened to it 4 or 5 times through before I got to work.

The chorus of the song is:

"This is my temporary Home, it's not where I belong.

Windows and rooms, I'm passing through.

This is just a stop on the way to where I'm going.

I'm not afraid because I know, this is my temporary Home."

This was an incredible reminder to me that as I live day to day and worry and stress about things - its not forever. None of this is going to last. All too often I find myself overlooking that and getting worked up about stupid things that are guaranteed to fade away. I don't spend enough time with the only One who is truly lasting.

As we travel through this life, as we meet and loose people. As stress, worry and strain take over our emotions. It gives me hope to remember that this is not the last stop. This is just a temporary place as we wait until the glorious days of forever.

Temporary Home

Carrie Underwood

Little boy, 6 years old
A little too used to bein' alone.
Another new mom and dad,another school,
Another house that'll never be home.
When people ask him how he likes this place...
He looks up and says, with a smile upon his face,

"This is my temporary home
It's not where I belong.
Windows and rooms that I'm passin' through.
This is just a stop, on the way to where I'm going.
I'm not afraid because I know this is my
Temporary Home."

Young mom on her own.
She needs a little help, got nowhere to go.
She's lookin' for a job, lookin' for a way out,
Because a half-way house will never be a home.
At night she whispers to her baby girl,
"Someday we'll find our place here in this world."

"This is our temporary home.
It's not where we belong.
Windows and rooms that we're passin' through.
This is just a stop, on the way to where we're going.
I'm not afraid because I know this is our
Temporary Home."


Old man, hospital bed,
The room is filled with people he loves.
And he whispers don't cry for me,
I'll see you all someday.
He looks up and says, "I can see God's face."

"This is my temporary Home
It's not where I belong.
Windows and rooms that I'm passin' through.
This was just a stop,on the way to where I'm going.
I'm not afraid because I know... this was
My temporary home."

This is our temporary home.

Back again

Hello blogging world!!!!

I guess it's been a while since I have written. Things with this new job are really taking off....but it leaves me ridiculously busy all the time! I apologize that I have not been online alot lately.

I have to admit that I don't really have a ton to share. Besides working, there hasn't been too much that has happened lately. I am feeling rather content in my life at this particular time. However, there are a few things which do cause me worry and stress. I am going my best to rely on God to provide, however the unknown can be scary. Please pray for my family.

October is going to be an extremely busy but exciting month!!! I have two very close friends who are getting married in October! Rob gets the privilege of being a groomsman in our friend Nathaniel's wedding in the middle of October. Then one of my best friends is getting married at the end of October. Besides the excitement of the weddings, there is also Thanksgiving and not to mention a billion other things I already have written on my calendar to do!!!

I hope at this fall-ish time of year life is finding you well and that you are seeing God's hand working. I know that I am reminded of his goodness and beauty each time I notice the leaves turning different colours. He is a good God.

Peace friends.

Feeling Fall-ish

Hi friends!

I hope you are all doing well. This blog is not going to be anything super special, I was just reminded last night that I haven't written in my blog for a while. (Thanks Beck!) So I thought I would spend a few minutes and get you all up to speed!

This week has been crazy....I worked 47 hours this week. Two of those days meant being up at 4am. Needless to say I was a bit exhausted when I got home yesterday. Work is going well. Everyone seems to think I am doing well which is really encouraging.

Other than being at work I haven't done too much else this week! It's been super long. I am really looking forward to having my Sunday off!

I have a confession to make....one that some of you may not appreciate. I LOVE absolutely LOVE that the weather is turning a little cooler. Now before you all freak out and think I'm crazy - let me say that I have nothing against the warm summer weather. However I love the turn of the seasons. I LOVE living in Canada and experiencing all the seasons. There is so much beauty in our world and I think that as I see the leaves changing colours, it helps remind me to take notice of the beauty of nature that surrounds us everyday - in all seasons.

Enjoy the change of the colours and even the change in the temperature this week friends. Take notice of the beauty of our earth. Praise God for the amazing world he has placed us in.

Enjoy your Sunday.

Peace.

Stand in the Rain

Good evening friends!

Tonight we played our second last soccer game of the summer season. It was a fabulous game played outside in the pouring rain. I know it doesn't sound too thrilling, but playing soccer in the rain is one of the coolest things. It's refreshing and exhilarating! Every little kick or sprint takes that little bit of extra energy because the ground and ball are so wet. It makes things a little more exciting and the team seems to pick up their game alot when the extra effort is added. Playing in the rain makes for an awesome game.

Just before we headed to the field, as we were packing up extra coats and umbrellas, my dad said the words "stand in the rain". Typically, this wouldn't mean anything other than literally going to stand in the rain. But tonight, it brought the lyrics of a song to my head. "Stand in the Rain" by Superchick. This song is simply about people moving through life at such a fast pace, they don't have time to stop and be emotional about anything. They are scared that if they stop ignoring or pushing aside and actually face their struggles, they will cry. But despite the struggles and downpour that life often brings, if you stand with God as your support, you can make it through. It's a beautiful song and I feel so moved by it each time I hear it.

I know we all have our share of struggles. I know that the rain in our lives comes down hard at times. Just remember that after the rain comes the sun. If we just stand strong for a little while, the clouds will pass and we will be stronger for having endured the downpour.

"So stand in the rain. Stand your ground. Stand up when it's all crashing down. Stand through the pain, you won't drown. One day what's lost will be found. Stand in the rain."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FlXlUgHUc60 (A link to the song)

Stand strong.

Peace.

It's been a long time coming

Hi friends!

I trust you are all well and enjoying the beauty of these long hot summer days. I know I am certainly cherishing the feeling of the hot sun on my face.

This past weekend, I had the chance to get together and have a girls night/sleepover with 2 of my best friends. Katie, Ashleigh and I haven't had the time together like that in a long time. So it was well over due. We headed to Listowel Saturday afternoon and spent a wonderful time together, catching up on each others lives. Sharing our joys, struggles and a lot of laughter. We will not be going a year without that again! In fact, we've already set a time for the next one! I am so blessed to have such incredible friends. They are such a gift.

Tonight, I am heading to bed early, as I start my first day at work tomorrow. I have to be up around 4:30am. (I didn't even know that time existed!) In order to be at work on time. It's going to be a long day filled with alot of information. I am so thankful that God has opened up this opportunity for me and I pray that I am able to learn, work hard and succeed in my new position.

Enjoy your Monday evening! May you all see God working in your lives this week.

Peace.

My prayer answered!!!

Hi friends,

It's been a little while since I have written. These past couple weeks have been a whirlwind of work, hospital visits, job interviews and plenty more.

To start off with the most exciting of news, I now have a full time job!!!! I have been praying for months now, that I would be patient as I waited for the right position to become available. I have sent out many resumes and filled out my share of applications, and FINALLY the time has come! Several weeks ago, Rob's dad asked me what I thought about working at their warehouse as a clerk position. I didn't think too much of it because it didn't seem to be an option at that point. However, it did get me thinking. Then last week, in a rush of excitement, he asked me again, because now the position was actually available. Rob and I talked about it and I sent in a resume that night. Got a call the next day for an interview and today was hired! This is such a blessing! I start my training next Monday. Last week, I also got an interview at Starbucks. They called me today and I was hired by them as well! 2 jobs in 2 hours. Thats a record! I am so thrilled to finally have a full time job, something that I know is going to guarantee me the hours I need and a nice pay check. I have plenty of bills that need paying off. Thanks so much to those of you who have been praying for me! I very much appreciate it. Please pray that my training goes well and that I might be able to pick up the new job quickly and do well at it.

On to the next order of business. Many of you read that I went to the hospital last night to have my arm looked at. When I fell off the ladder at work a couple weeks ago, my arm has been bugging me since then. Last night at soccer, I fell again and hurt it alot. I lost feeling in my fingers and was unable to move my arm. So I went to the hospital and had X-rays taken. Thankfully nothing is broken! The soft tissues and the bone are bruised, that just takes time to heal. It's still very sore, but I'm hoping to have full mobility soon.

Anyways, just thought that I would share this exciting news!

Hope you are all doing well!

Peace.

The purple beast...

This is the result of falling off a ladder!!!!

Tumbling Down

Hi friends,

I hope you are all well. Today while I was at work, I had quite an accident. Many of you have read on my facebook status, but those who haven't, I fell off a ladder today. I was at work bright and early - 7am. Typically on Tuesday's we have a window change, which means that all the window displays and mannequins get changed. It's not a hard task, I am given all the materials and a write up of how the window should look. Then I spend a couple hours putting it all together. I have been doing this for months now and I really enjoy doing it. Today was a typical Tuesday and I had already completed 3 of the 4 windows. Overcome some slight issues and was just about ready to be finished. To give you a visual of what the windows look like, the front of the store is all glass windows. In each of the windows, there are giant platforms. Each of the platforms are about 3 feet off the floor. The background displays are hung from the ceilings on hooks and then mannequins sit on the platforms just in front of the back drops. As I said, 3 of the windows had been done and I was moving on to the last window. I am too short to reach the hooks on the ceiling without using a step ladder. So I set the ladder up, climbed up and began hanging my back drop. It was then that the ladder slipped from underneath me. I fell and landed on my right side, arm and hip first on the edge of the platform. After bouncing off the platform, I fell to the floor which was another 3 foot drop onto that side. It knocked the wind right out of me and after overcoming the initial shock, I started to breath again. My manager had to come help me out of the crevice in which I was lodged. (There was only about a foot of space between the platform and the window.) I now have a sore shoulder, wrist, elbow, a cut on my underarm, and a massive swollen purple hip/butt. I have been unable to walk without pain today and am nervous to see how I will feel in the morning. Thankfully, nothing was broken. I was able to work the rest of my shift and will see how tomorrow's goes.

I would appreciate your prayers for fast healing, I don't want to have to loose any hours at work, or loose out on playing soccer this week!

On another note, an answer to prayer!!!! I have an interview!!!! For full time work!!!! The interview is scheduled for next week, so I would appreciate some prayer as I head into that.

Peace.

Exhausting weekend

Hi friends,

I hope you are all well and enjoying the beauty that this weekend has held. This was a super busy weekend for Rob and I. We started Saturday with a trip to Sarnia, to celebrate the life of a friend of ours from Heritage. It was a very teary ceremony as many memories were shared. However, it was also filled with much laughter as we all remembered the man that is now experiencing the full glory of God. My continued prayers are with his wife Kristin and their families. After the memorial, we rushed back to Cambridge to change and hop in the car again. This time just to Guelph. Rob had a family gathering that we agreed we would stop by. It was nice to sit outside and enjoy some conversation with the wonderful family! Though I didn't know many people there, I had a good time hanging out with Rob's sister Sarah and chatting with some of the relatives from the states. As the sun started to set, I headed for home with Rob's 3 siblings, while he and his dad and uncle headed to Toronto to enjoy a Rush concert. Unfortunately, I am terrible with directions, but needless to say we made it home....from Guelph....an hour later. (Figure that one out!). After a late night, we woke Sunday morning, only to jump in the car again. Mandy and I had a soccer game in Port Elgin, which is about 2.5-3 hours away. It was nice to sit and catch up on some reading, but the driving makes for a long day. Thanks for driving dad!!! After another long day, we headed home and to be, so that we could both be up for 6am! (He for school and I for work). I'm feeling a little tuckered out. Feeling like we missed out on a weekend because we were so busy. This week is no exception, places to go and people to see each day. Though, as busy as it all is, I wouldn't change any of it. I want to live each second that I have been given, to the very fullest. I am thankful for every opportunity I have. Grateful for each moment. I never want to take my short time here on this earth for granted. Despite the long weekend and tired eyes I am now feeling, I am thankful.

Peace.

People Watching

Hi friends!

So lately, I've had this fetish with watching people. Not only watching them but making up stories that could possibly be their lives and their stories. Now I know this sounds a little creepy, but I promise it's not! I just get curious as I see people walking down the street. I consider as I see people what's happened in their lives that brought them to where they are. I often wonder how they connected with other people in their lives, and things like what their profession is, how did they meet their spouse, and what are they going to accomplish in their lives. I know this seems a little weird, but as I think about the lives of these people I don't know, it often makes me reflect about my own life and the people I have had the privilege of knowing. It's strange to see how people get connected, but such a blessing to see how lives are woven together. I have been blessed by all of the relationships I have and its so neat for me to think back and see how we crossed paths in the first place. It's so cool to see how our relationships have built and grown and continued to flourish over time. I know some of my friends I have known for 10+ years. Some, only a couple years, but none of them are more important than the other. We have all been placed in each others lives for a purpose. God has used all the relationships and friendships to be a blessing to me. I have learned from and leaned on all of my friends and I wouldn't change any one of them for the world. So whatever the circumstances that brought us together, know that I have been blessed by you and I truly hope that our futures continue to keep us together.

Peace.

365 Amazing Days

Hi friends,

This week, July 4th, marked the one year anniversary for Robert and I dating! We decided that we would spend the day together enjoying each other's company and the beautiful weather! So we went to church in the morning, then Rob took me to a surprise lunch at the Old Marina restaurant. I had never been there before so it was a nice surprise and a beautiful day to sit out on the deck and enjoy some delicious food. Afterwards, we tried to take a walk along the lake, but there was alot of "Private Property" signs, so we couldn't go too far. We then spent the afternoon just hanging out, I had a bit of a nap while he did some homework. Late in the afternoon I had a soccer game. I played and sweated buckets in the hot weather. While Rob watched from the sidelines. After I had gotten showered and cleaned up from soccer, we packed up the car and headed to Niagra Falls. We parked on the side of a road just above the falls. We found a little look-out looking over the water and had a clear view of where the fireworks were to take place. We sat on the grass and waited about 15 minutes before the big fireworks started. It was a nice wait, on a beautiful night and there was no lack of things to see. While we waited, we were graced with fireworks all along the other side of the water. Due to it being Independence Day, there were multiple firework displays happening all across the skyline. It was such a wonderful evening sitting and enjoying the fireworks with my handsome man. We enjoyed great conversation all the way there and back which I think we both really needed and really enjoyed. It was a wonderful day of celebrating this milestone in our relationship.

Here's to many more!

Love you Rob!

Happy Canada Day

Hi friends,

I hope you are all enjoying this lovely day. The sun is shining and although its a little breezy, it's a beautiful day in a beautiful country. I am so proud to be Canadian and so blessed to live in such a beautiful country. We are free (despite the new taxes), we live in a nation that is not afraid of embracing it's differences and celebrating its multiculturalism.

God Keep our land, Glorious and Free. Happy Canada Day everyone!

Peace.

Decision Made....I think.....

Hi friends,

So life. It has this great way of throwing things at you from no where. Things that not only interfere with current plans, but things that change the plans for the future as well. Well, one of those curve balls has been thrown at me. That ball is regarding school this year. I don't believe that I will be going back to school this fall. I did fantastic this past year with marks. I finished the year with 4 A+'s and 2 A's. So it's certainly not about the marks. But despite my doing well this year, I still don't believe I will be going back. Mostly the reasoning has to do with finances. Yes I applied for OSAP, but yes the residence fees have increased by about $1000. I tried to work out a payment plan with residence, but they still needed $2000 by this Friday - and I don't have that. Also, due to financial things at home, I think it'll be best for this year to remain at home and work like crazy to put away some money. School was absolutely God's timing last year. With all the craziness that life held, it worked out wonderfully to get away for the year and start fresh. I just don't feel that this year that's the best place for me to be. It's taken alot of thinking, praying and discussion, but I'm thinking that school is a no go this year. Which is slightly disappointing seeing as I will be missing my Seneca friends.

But....such is life. And I am learning how to roll with the punches. You'd think by now I would be expecting the unexpected and ready for all the twists and turns life brings. But God continues to surprise me with the plans He has for me.

There is a quote in a fabulous movie called "Extreme Days" that I think defines life. Certainly defines mine this past couple of years!

"We had some random things happen to us; some good, some bad, some you can't explain, some you don't want to. But one thing we did learn for sure...when God throws a curveball...don't duck...you just might miss something."

Peace.

Rejoice over you with singing

Mandy has had this verse posted on her msn for quite sometime. It was only recently in a time of searching that I decided to look up the verse. It gave me alot of comfort and I hope that it can encourage you today.

Zephaniah 3:17 (NIV)
The Lord your God is with you.
He is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you.
He will quiet you with his love.
He will rejoice over you with singing.

Peace.

Life is precious

Hi friends,

Earlier this week a friend of mine's husband was hit by a bus and is in a hospital in Korea. (They are missionairies in Korea). When I heard the news, it was shocking and I immediately started praying for her and her husband Craig. When I heard of Craig being in critical condition, it immediately gave me a flashback from last spring when Ashleigh was in the hospital due to her heart stopping. I know that both situations are very different and even effect different areas of their bodies, but both friends were in critical condition with completely unknown results. It once again reminded me just how precious life is. How we are not guarenteed each day. Anything can happen at any time. I am blessed with wonderful friends and family and far too often I find myself taking those relationships for granted. I just assume that I will live another day and that I won't die until I reach old age. I assume the same of all of my friends and family. I know this is not the case and that each day is precious. "Live each day as it is your last" is not a cliche term....its a moto we should live by.

When I get ready in the morning, I play music. The very first song that comes on my playlist is "Live like you're dying" by Kris Allen. It encourages me to live each day to the very fullest. To never take anyone for granted. I have put the words below, take a read through - be inspired to live each day.

So friends, don't take life for granted. It's too precious for that. Peace.

Live Like You're Dying by Kris Allen

Sometimes we fall down, can't get back up
We're hiding behind skin that's too tough
How come we don't say I love you enough
Till it's to late, it's not too late

Our hearts are hungry for a food that won't come
And we could make a feast from these crumbs
And we're all staring down the barrel of a gun
So if your life flashed before you,
What would you wish you would've done

Yeah, we gotta start
Looking at the hands of the time we've been given
If this is all we got and we gotta start thinking
If every second counts on a clock that's ticking
Gotta live like we're dying

We only got 86,400 seconds in a day to
Turn it all around or to throw it all away
We gotta tell them that we love them
While we got the chance to say
Gotta live like we're dying

And if your plane fell out of the skies
Who would you call with your last goodbye
Should be so careful who we live out our lives
So when we long for absolution,
There'll no one on the line, yeah

Yeah, we gotta start
Looking at the hands of the time we've been given
If this is all we got and we gotta start thinking
If every second counts on a clock that's ticking
Gotta live like we're dying

We only got 86,400 seconds in a day to
Turn it all around or to throw it all away
We gotta tell them that we love them
While we got the chance to say
Gotta live like we're dying


We only got 86,400 seconds in a day to
Turn it all around or to throw it all away
We gotta tell them that we love them
While we got the chance to say
Gotta live like we're dying

You never know a good thing till it's gone
You never see a crash till it's head on
Why do we think we're right when we're dead wrong
You never know a good thing till it's gone

Yeah, we gotta start
Looking at the hands of the time we've been given
If this is all we got and we gotta start thinking
If every second counts on a clock that's ticking
Gotta live like we're dying

We only got 86,400 seconds in a day to
Turn it all around or to throw it all away
We gotta tell them that we love them
While we got the chance to say
Gotta live like we're dying

Wonderful weekend

Hi friends!

I hope you all had the chance to enjoy the beautiful sunshine of this past weekend. I had the fabulous opportunity to get together with two of my best friends. We haven't all been together in almost a year, it was wonderful to see each other again! On Saturday, Rob and Ash and I drove down to Listowel to see our lovely friend Katie. We decided then that we wanted to go to the beach. So, we packed up the car and headed to Kincardine. The beach there was absolutely gorgeous and we had fabulous sunshine all afternoon. It was so nice to sit together and chat and not be hindered by the pressures of time or work. We just got to sit and be there together. These girls are such amazing women and it's so amazing to see God working in each of their lives. I am entirely blessed by their friendship. It was nice for Rob to come as well, since he is also close friends with these ladies. Being able to sit for an afternoon with three of my favorite people was the best thing I've had happen in quite some time. It was freeing and relaxing and I am so thrilled we had the chance to do it. Though we all left at the end of the day exhausted and sunburnt it was well worth it. Praise the Lord for friendship.

Peace.

Waiting to hear

Well, it's been just about a month since I've been out of school. It's nice to be starting soccer and enjoying the (finally) warm weather. The only downfall is the lack of income. I have given out crap loads of resumes and applied for numerous different types of jobs and have yet to hear from even one of them. I'm starting to stress out a little bit because I have no money incoming and I know that I have several bills to pay within the next couple weeks. I am praying for patience and I know God will provide in his timing. If anybody has any suggestions, please let me know.

Friends, I appreciate any advice and some prayer.

Peace.

And so it begins....

The feel of the wind in my hair and the grass beneath my feet. The smell of fresh air and sweat. The sound of my teammates calling my name. The sun in my face and the sight of orange and white across the green landscape. The taste of sweat and sports drink on my tongue. Yes, it is the beginning of summer - soccer season has begun!

We have a new team this year. About half of us our back with an entire new second half of the team. I'm looking forward to a good season, making some new friends and having a good time outside attempting to get back into shape and enjoy playing a great sport.

We had our first exhibition game this past Sunday. The first time our new team has had the opportunity to play together. It was nice to be outside. I got some sun on my face and the feeling of a good all body work out. (Though my body still aches a little days after). I love the sport, but I really need to get out and do some running to get back in shape.

Summer has officially begun when soccer starts. Let's go Tiger Cats!

short legs, short legs!

We have a new addition to our family! Dad had talked about getting a puppy for several months now, so here he is! His name is Itchy and he's an 11 week old miniature daschund. What's with his name you may be asking? Well, when we got Sausie - years ago - we debated calling her Sausie and calling her Itchy. Itchy was the name of a little weiner dog in an animated movie called "All dogs Go to heaven". That name kinda stuck and now we have a little itchy! He is adjusting wonderfully and is as cute as ever! We have a tough time ahead of us for bathroom training, but we'll get there!

Just on a side note, still no job yet. I've applied to several places but I haven't heard anything yet. Please pray that something comes along soon.

Peace.

Missy

Think...think...think....

Ok so I've been sitting around the last couple days feeling the urge to blog. I've been reading others' blogs and contemplating about what to write. I have the urge to write something inspiring, something that makes an impact, but every time I sit down to write I come up blank. I feel slightly empty and that anything I have to say isn't worth writing about. Today friends, I don't have anything empowering, uplifting, spiritually engaging or brilliant to write about. I simply wanted to share that I am alive. I am doing what I can. I have a God who loves me and I am OK. And that's all I can ask for.

And Done

Well, my first year is officially over! These past 2 weeks have been packed full of assignments and final exams. It's such a relief to be officially finished this school year! Now to celebrate....with work? lol. We officially move out of school on Saturday, so I spend a couple more days here working at the store, then I move home! The Seneca girls and I are planning a nice dinner out to celebrate the completion of our first year. Tomorrow night we're going back to O'Noir. As some of you may have read in my blog a few months ago, I went to a restaurant that demonstrates what its like for blind people. The restaurant is completely pitch black. We are heading back to the restaurant to commemorate our first year. It's fitting because that was where our first bonding experience took place at the beginning of this year.

Now to find a summer job. Some of you know that I had an interview at Reid's last week. Still haven't heard anything. I'm praying that it works out, but I'm trying not to be too anxious about it. Please pray that God have his hand in the situation and that something come about soon.

Now that I'm available for the summer....let's get together!

Hope to see you all soon!

Happy Summer!

Peace

A Psalm of David

Hi everyone!

Last night in my devotional time, I was asked to read through Psalm 13. This is a Psalm where David becomes impatient with God because God has asked David to wait for Him. The Psalm reads through and David says many times in desperation "How Long?". It is clear that he is beginning to get frustrated with the fact he has had to wait so long for God to answer him. Until the last 2 verses, David continues to talk about his waiting and what he hopes that God will do. But in the last 2 verses, something changes. Perhaps David actually realized that God will answer him, but he will do so in his perfect timing. It's like a lightbulb comes on in David's head, where he settles back and agrees to continue waiting. Instead he praises God for his unending love and his goodness.

This was an absolutely perfect Psalm for me to read last night. I am in the midst of attempting to find a job for the summer, and so far have come up empty. I am beginning to majorly stress about that as I only have about 2 and a half weeks left of school. As I read through this Psalm, I was reassured that even David had a hard time waiting upon God. I completely trust that He will provide for me, however I have no patience! (It's something I'm working on!) I was reminded that He is good and His love for me is unfailing and He will never forget about me. I just need to be patient and wait upon His perfect timing.

Psalm 13 (NIV)

¹ How long, O LORD ? Will you forget me forever?
How long will you hide your face from me?

² How long must I wrestle with my thoughts
and every day have sorrow in my heart?
How long will my enemy triumph over me?

³ Look on me and answer, O LORD my God.
Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death;

⁴ my enemy will say, "I have overcome him,"
and my foes will rejoice when I fall.

⁵ But I trust in your unfailing love;
my heart rejoices in your salvation.

⁶ I will sing to the LORD,
for he has been good to me

Rejoice and be patient!

Peace!

Happy Birthday Poco!

Today is my horse's birthday! He is 11 years old. Unfortunately I couldn't spend some time with him today - hopefully I will have a chance during this long weekend. I will also take some pictures of him for you to see! He's the cutest horse ever!

On another note, my group had a project in our Interpersonal Communications class today and we got 100%! We were super excited to have gotten perfect on the presentation! We all worked really hard and are so thrilled that it paid off. Good work ladies!

Anxiety Disorder?

Hey!

So today in my psychology class, we were discussing personality disorders. One of the ones that was brought up was anxiety disorders -being a worry wart. I have diagnosed myself with this disorder simply because I am (unfortunately) a worrier. I feel bad about this because I know that things are going to be ok and I should not stress about things I cannot control. Trust me, I'm working on it. With it being the end of the year and having projects to do and exams to write I am feeling that extra stress, but I'm going to do my best to not let it bother me. I need to rely more on God and know that He has provided for me thus far and will continue to do so. He will never abandon me.

Sometimes I feel a little lonely and struggle with the fact that I don't have alot of time to spend with some of my really good friends. I know that God will not abandon me and I am never ever fully alone. However, I do feel it sometimes. I think this is getting to me alot right now because one year ago, as things started to get difficult for my family, I had some really great friends who were a wonderful support system and I even had some friends who came and took me away just to get out of the city for a little while. Sadly I feel like I've lost those friends or those connections because I haven't had the chance to see them and we never seem to have time for each other anymore. I'm really struggling with the feeling of having lost some wonderful friends. Also with two of my dearest girl friends, we all live in separate cities and have not had time together in a LONG time. We try to keep in contact but with our busy lives it doesn't always happen. Hopefully this summer will allow some much needed re-connection time.

I am not alone.

He will provide for me.

I am ok.

Peace.

12 year dates

Hi everyone!

Today I had the wonderful privilege of having a lovely ice cream date with my good friend (practically sister) Meghan. Meg and I haven't seen each other for several months due to our incredibly busy lives. We met up at Marble Slab and enjoyed some delicious ice cream and even better, just about 2 hours of fabulous conversation. It was so nice to sit and catch up and fill each other in on our lives. Meg is getting married in just over a month and I cannot wait to be there for her big day! We have known each other for just about 12 years which is why I say "practically sister" and it was such a blessing and privilege to be able to spend some time with her.

Thanks for the date Meg and for blessing me with conversation and ice cream!

Love you!

See you in 48 days!

Little Update

Hey everyone,

I hope you are all doing well. It's come to my attention that there are ALOT more people reading my blog than I had initially anticipated - which is so awesome! Thanks for your encouraging notes and all your prayers.

There are a couple of things I would like to mention just to ask for a little prayer. First off, Mandy has been really sick lately. She has been tested for a couple of things, so we're hoping to get a final result on what's going on with her. Please pray that she heals and its nothing serious. Next, I am desperately in need of a summer job. Please pray that I am patient as I wait for God's timing and waiting for the opportunity to arise. Also, please pray that we both finish off the semester well. We only have a couple of weeks left and are both anxious to finish it off. Another prayer request would be for housing for next year. I'd rather not live in dorm. There are a couple friends of mine who are going to be looking into an apartment but have been having no luck so far. Please pray that we might find something suitable.

On a final note, Mandy and I are hoping to be able to play soccer this summer. We have an upcoming soccer fundraiser that will hopefully allow Mandy and I to play. Our coach has said that if we fill enough spots from the fundraiser we can get a discount on the cost of the season, which would allow us to afford to play this summer. The fundraiser is on April 17th. The tickets are $15 each. We both have plenty of tickets to sell. It's always a great time to hang out and help us be able to afford to play this summer! If anyone is interested in coming out for the night or even donating some money, please contact me. I would love to see you all come out!

Thanks again for all your support and prayers!

Peace

A Tale as old as Time...

Hi everyone!

I just wanted to share with you about this fabulous evening out that I got to have on Wednesday night. For my birthday this year, Rob gave me tickets to see Beauty and the Beast live on stage at the Centre in the Square. Beauty and the Beast is my favorite Disney movie, so it was perfectly fitting! Wednesday night I picked Rob up from work where he had some beautiful flowers waiting for me. Then we headed home to have a nice dinner at one of my favorite Thai restaurants. Then headed to the theatre. The show was spectacular and we had amazing close seats! We both throughly enjoyed the show and had a wonderful evening out. It was so awesome to be able to have an evening out together and be able to enjoy the theatre.

Thanks for the wonderful date Rob! I love you!

GLEE

Hi all!

Tonight I wanted to write about something that is extremely dear to my heart!

One of my new favorite television shows is the comedy Glee! I only decided to write about it tonight because I've been watching episodes of it for the past couple days. The show is hilarious and discusses many different issues that plague our high schools now a days, those being teen pregnancy's, homosexuality and of course the stereotypical popular kids and loser kids. The show is full of entertaining characters who make you laugh through every episode despite dealing with some very challenging situations. Not to mention, the music! The kids in the club are absolutely fantastic singers and its so great to hear them sing and even bring back a few classics!

I love it! So far I have yet to find anyone who dislikes it! There is something for everyone in the show....give it a chance, you might even find yourself singing along!!!

Peace.

First flowers

Hey!

I just wanted to share a very exciting thing with you guys! I know it doesn't look like much, but it means more than you'll ever know! Any of you who know Rob are aware that he is not the most romantic guy in the world (I love him anyways!). When I went to pick him up from work last weekend, he disappeared for a second and came back with beautiful flowers for me! This was a big deal - so big that I had to take pictures of them for everyone to see! We've been dating for just about 8 months and these are the first flowers I've received....what a guy! Also if you want to see how classy we are - check out the vase!

Thanks Rob! Love you!

Motivation....or lack there of

Hey!

This time of year is where I decide that school work is lame.... Truth is, I usually enjoy homework, however about half way through the semester I start to feel EXTREMELY unmotivated. There are so many things that I could be doing, but I just don't feel like it. I find the most fabulous ways to waste time and get absolutely nothing accomplished. Well that half way point is definitely here. After writing two midterms this week knowing that I have two more to come - along with the rest of the projects and papers I have due after reading week I just have no motivation to get started on things. Please pray that I might be encouraged to do what I have to and push through and work hard for the rest of the semester

Thanks for your encouragement!

Peace.

Alive

Hi Everyone,

Alot of you have heard or been wondering about what happened the other night. Myself and a couple friends from school were in a car accident. Before you get panicky - we are all perfectly fine! I don't want to downplay it because it was absolutely terrifying but by the grace of God, we made it through without being seriously injured.

Here's what happened.

Monday night Danielle, Julie and I are heading back to Toronto to school. It's just after 8 and its been snowing like crazy all day. We were not driving very fast, 70mph at most. I go to switch lanes to move into a slower moving lane and someone behind me had a similar idea. Except, he moved over and started speeding up like crazy. I go to move back over to the lane I was initially in to allow the other car to get out of the way. However, in the process of moving over, we hit black ice or one of the snow piles that builds up between the lanes and I lost complete control of my car. We spun out and hit the front end of the car on the passenger side off the cement median on the 401. We hit then kept sliding and spinning a little bit. We eventually hit the cement barrier with the back corner passenger side of the car and come to a halt. We are now facing on coming traffic sticking out into the fast lane a little bit. The entire car was silent as we realize what had happened. I immediately reminded everyone to keep their seat belts on and turned on the foreways. It was then that I panicked and didn't know what to do. I burst into tears as I made sure everyone was ok. A nice man pulled up behind us, came over to make sure we were ok and took a look at the damage to the car. Thankfully there wasn't much. The back bumper is a little shifted and cracked but other than that nothing was seriously wrong. The car re-started and we were able to pull back onto the highway and off at the next exit.

It was a terribly horrifying experience and I can't begin to tell you the strange things that went through my mind as we started to spin. My first concern was those who were in my car. I have to say I apologized profusely. I am happy to report that God definitely looked out for us. Had we been hit by another car, I likely would not be writing this blog. Nobody was hurt, minus a tea burn and a very sore back. I can only thank God for protecting us and letting us make it through such a scary ordeal. We are also all very thankful for the man who stopped to help us. Out of all the cars that were speeding past he was the only one who came over.

I'm alive.

Peace.

22 years

Hey Everyone!

Just thought I would send out a great thank you for all the wonderful birthday wishes! I had a pretty good birthday! I worked for most of the day (9-5). Work was nice though, singing to me and letting me leave a few minutes early! I had a great surprise at work too! Mandy and her boyfriend Josh and our friend Danielle came by the store with a bouquet of balloons for me! It was a slightly embarrassing surprise, but it was really fun and sweet of them to do that for me! My managers made me leave the balloons on my cash for the remainder of the day. After work finished I headed home to pick up Rob so we could go for dinner with my dad, Mandy and Josh. When I arrived at Rob's his whole family greeted me with singing and a plate of 22 delicious cupcakes! It was a nice evening of dinner and hanging out! I got a few books and DVD's that I wanted. Rob got us tickets to see Beauty and the Beast on stage in March! I'm so excited!

Overall, it was a wonderful day! It reminded me once again how truly blessed I am!

Thanks for your wishes and love!

Peace

Oh Canada...True Patriot Love

Hi everyone!

I mentioned in my last blog that I had been thinking about several different things that I wanted to blog about. Today - clearly it is about my country! As all of you know, the Olympics are coming to Canada! In fact the opening ceremony is tomorrow! I'm sure you've all seen the commercials and heard all the supporting music as they prepare to welcome all the athletes to beautiful British Colombia. With seeing all the commercials and hearing the music, I have been feeling completely inspired and proud of my country. Even when we were at the hockey game the other night and they were playing the Canadian national anthem, I was so proud to be standing there singing my anthem. I feel so blessed to be able to live in one of the most amazing countries in the world! I hope you are all proud and ready to cheer on our athletes as they compete within the next couple of weeks.

GO CANADA GO!!!!

Go team Go!

Hi everyone!

I have a few things that I've been thinking about to blog about lately, but since this is recent I think I'll tell you about a fantastic outing I had last night!

In December, Rob surprised my dad and I with tickets to see dad's favorite team, the Boston Bruins. It was my dad's first NHL game, so we were all really excited! We met at 3 pm and headed down the Buffalo. Traffic was pretty good and we made awesome timing. We got to the arena and all enjoyed a piece of pizza before we went to find our seats. We had nose bleed seats - WAY up there, but what's good about being high up is that you get to look down and see every part of the ice. We got the chance to see the warm up and all the pre-game stuff. We had initially expected that Boston was going to loose, so we didn't go in with great hopes! But after the first period Boston was up 2-0! We were so thrilled! Then the second period, Buffalo caught up and we went into the third period in a tie! The last period was extremely tense! Lot's of shots and close calls, but ended up finishing the game in a tie. So the teams went into overtime. 5 minutes at sudden death and they tied again! Now it went into a shoot out! Talk about being tense! First shot went in for both Buffalo and Boston. Then Boston saved 4 in a row causing the Bruins to win on the very last shot!!!! It was so exciting!!!! We got the extra time at the game, caught a couple of fights and really really enjoyed our time! We drove back home (me to King City and dad and Rob to Cambridge) making it a very late night, but very well worth it!

Thanks for the tickets Rob! We all had a great time!!!

Peace.

Major Prayer

Hi everyone,

I know I've been ranting about this alot lately, but I have run into some major money problems. I'm having trouble making any types of payments. Please please please pray that things will be sorted out and that I might be able to make my payments.

Thanks in advance for your prayers.

Missy

In Remembrance and reflection

Hi everyone!

I hope you are all well. I just wanted to share with you some of my reflections from this past weekend. This weekend I was able to attend a funeral for Rob's great-opa. We went to the visitation on Monday night and attended the ceremony on Tuesday morning. While being able to be there for the family, and hear all the stories and memories about a great father, grandfather and great-grandfather. I personally only met opa once. It was a fun visit and he teased Rob about his lip ring. (Which is not unusual!) Anyways, I was able to go with Rob's family and be present even at the gravesite. It was wonderful to see the whole family come together. Family members even from the USA came up and were there for opa. During the ceremony and visitation there were alot of conversation sharing memories, sharing tears and sharing their love for opa. Throughout the few days I did alot of reflecting on how precious our family and friends are. For alot of people, life is unfortunately cut short. In opa's case, he lived to be 94 years. Throughout life, there are times where we get frustrated and many times where we take for granted those who love us most. It was nice to be reminded of how important it is to show the people in our lives how much we love them.

I am very blessed to have family and extended family who love and support me. I'm blessed to have such a great relationship with my sister, not only are we sisters, but we're also friends. I am extremely blessed to have Rob in my life. He is a great support and great encouragement. I am also blessed to have wonderful friendships and despite the distance between most of us, we still manage to keep in contact and involved in each others' lives. I'm sorry if I take any of you for granted. I love you all.

Peace.

Prayer

Hey everyone,

I'm just gonna write a short bit tonight. Just requesting a little prayer for My sister and myself. We have a couple of very frustrating situations on our hands and we just need to remain calm and completely rely that the Lord will take care of us. We just need to be reminded that He is taking care of us and has our best interests in mind. With his strength, we will get through this.

Thanks for your prayers

Peace.

Self Reflection

Hi everyone!

I hope that you are all doing well. Sorry I haven't written in a while, I have been busy with work and getting back into the swing of school!

Today has been kinda depressing. Not to the point of being teary or bring me to a complete break down, but it did encourage me to do a little self reflection. Today in one of my classes our teacher had us do an activity (which I don't feel benefited anyone) to help encourage communication. One by one, we had to stand up and allow the rest of the class to write one word on a slip of paper. One thing they thought of you from a first impression. The teacher collected all the papers and each person got to take theirs home to read. I'm not going to disclose things that were written about me, but what I will say is that I was shocked about how I come off to people. It made me a little bummed and I was a little taken about finding out what people thought of me. Needless to say, I have decided to use it as a learning tool and take each of the words as something I can use to help myself grow and become a better person. Not take them to heart, because most of those people don't know me for who I really am, but take what they said and see what I can do perhaps adjust how I come across to people in first impressions. As upsetting as it was to read some of the things I did, I hope that they can be used to benefit me and help me grow as a person.

Anyways, hope you are all doing well! Please drop me a line sometime, I love to hear how you guys are doing!

Love you all!
Peace

To strike or not to strike....

Hey everyone!
I just wanted to ask for a little prayer on an issue that comes about as of tomorrow! Most of you know that there is talk of a strike for the colleges in this region. Well, the vote to strike or not is tomorrow. (Wednesday January 13th). If the schools vote to stike, that puts all the students (including Mandy and I) into an akward spot. That stops our current schedules and potentially pushes our school work into the summer. If that happens it then puts our summer work schedule in jeopordy. It shortens our time to work and make the money we're gonna need to pay for school the following year! So if you wouldn't mind praying that this strike does not happen that would be awesome! It would be a real pain to loose out on work hours this summer - I know not only for me, but all the students who need to work this year.
Thanks for your prayers!
Peace

6 Happy Months!

I just wanted to give a quick shout out to my lovely Robert. January 4th marked our 6th months of being together. Just wanted to say that I love you! I'm looking forward to many more months together!

Looking ahead....

Hey everyone!

I hope that you all had blessed Christmas and New Year's celebrations. I had a good time being able to see my family and spent time also with Rob's family. I was fortunate enough to not have to work Christmas Eve or New Years Eve and Day, which allowed me some extra time at home! And the oppotunity to visit with my relatives in London which is always nice. I was blessed this Christmas through the gifts and money I received. Still my dad, sister and I continue to struggle financially. I pray that this year holds hope and uplifting things for us.

As you all know, this past year was filled with major struggles, and huge life changes for my entire family. Not to mention the year was filled with other struggles, tears, scares and heartbreak. I hold a hope for 2010 that it will be a year of laughter, a year of love and a year of hope. Life can only get better - good things have to come to us after what this past year has held. God is good. And even despite the things that have happened in 2009, He will carry us through and He is our hope for 2010. This past year has taught me how to take each moment as it comes. To love and to cherish the time I am given and appareciate the blessings I do have. He has also taught me how to completely trust and rely in Him in my time of need. Only He can carry me through.

As 2010 brings with it the freshness and hope of new beginnings, I can only thank God for blessing me with a new year.

God Bless you all friends as you go forth into a new year. May it be filled with hope, love, grace and peace.

Love you all!
Missy