After some thinking.....

I've made a few decisions.

Decision #1: declining a position at the Cookie Shop.
Decision #2: deciding not to take a class at Wake Tech.
Decision #3: Decided to write this blog post.


There are so many good things in this world, so many fantastic opportunities, that it's quite hard to know what is actually best. I realized that right now my passion is art, and taking a class or a job would take time away from that passion, as well as from music and reading and gardening....and I think I take my time for granted.

Decision #4: To be intentionally and decidedly productive.

I've decided that since I'm not actually going to school, I'm still going to study diligently. Primarily in art, but I am also going to make a list of a few books to read. Particulartly on theology or biographies, but I also want to study the book of Collosians, reading through it and hearing what others have to say on it, and altogether soaking it in. If you want to read it with me, please do so! We can blog about it.

I also want to spend more time with friends. In October, I am leaving the country. For good. Just kidding....but it's for a year, which is "for good" for awhile! So I really want to build up my connections here at home this summer and the few months I have in fall. Why? Because I love my friends, but I also want to have a strong prayer team for me when I leave. There will be lots of suprises and difficulties when I get there, and your support will be invaluable!! Seriously. I'm going to miss everybody, but I'll definately be blogging from the Old City!

Another thing I'm determined to do this summer is blog more regularly. I know you don't believe me, but really, you should. :)

So now I'll leave you with some beautiful words written by Anne Steel. It's a song redone by Jars of Clay that I listened to while jogging the other day, and it really helps me to refocus. Sometimes I get so cauught up with my own plans here on earth, that I get discouraged...but God has a bigger plan, and it definately involves grace! When I remember his promises, what Christ accomplished for me at the cross, than to him "I breathe my souls desires", and I know he's got it under control.

JESUS, I LIFT MY EYES
traditional words by Anne Steele (alt. by Jars of Clay)/music by Jars of Clay

When sins and fears prevailing rise
And fainting hope almost expires
Jesus to Thee I lift my eyes
To Thee I breathe my soul's desires

Are You not mine, my living Lord
And can my hope, my comfort die
Fixed on the everlasting word
That word which built the earth and sky

Jesus, I lift my eyes
To Thee I breathe my soul's desires
Jesus, I lift my eyes
To Thee I lift my eyes

Here let my faith unshaken dwell
Immovable the promise stands
Not all the powers of earth or hell
Can e'er dissolve the sacred bands

Jesus to Thee I lift my eyes
Jesus, I lift my eyes
To Thee I breathe my soul's desires
Jesus, I lift my eyes
To Thee I lift my eyes

Here oh my soul
Thy trust repose
If Jesus is forever mine
Not death itself that last of foes
Can break a union so divine

Jesus, I lift my eyes
To Thee I breathe my soul's desires
Jesus, I lift my eyes
To Thee I breathe my soul's desires