Hey everyone! Is it not amazing to see flowers everywhere and be able to run barefoot? I am loving the spring/summer vibe that has found itself a home where I live! Golden hour is beautiful and warm again, and it lasts for a looong time, both in the morning and at night! Looking out the window is an adventure every time!
Its kind of like the way we feel when we’re really working on our relationship with the Lord. We feel uplifted, refreshed, and we want to read the Bible and illustrate verses and sing worship songs all the time! But when it settles into a less exciting routine, we become a little less passionate, a little less committed; and of course, then the dog days set in.
I’m not saying that we should always be on the “mountain-top”! Its wonderful there, and those times are amazing and special, but they don’t always last. The thing that lasts, is the love that is steady and calm and TRUE.
I’ve been challenged by several people recently (including my amazing friend Keziah in this post ♥), that the Word of God is not a part of our day that we need to just get through. We need to treasure it, make it THE most important part of our day! No matter how busy we are, reading the Scriptures and seeking our Father’s voice in His Word is more important than any exam, job op, or get-together. And the love of the Bible and the just being there to spend time with God, is part of what it means to have that long-lasting love, instead of just the wonder of the whirlwind romance.
This is totally not something I am perfect in. I have just been realizing it, little by little. Pursuit of God through His Word, combined with prayer, is our way of connecting with the Creator, and I wouldn’t miss it for the world. But we all need His strength to hold us up in the spirit, keeping us from our fleshly desires to just laze through church and the motions. Being a passionate believer requires supernatural strength and wisdom, and praise the Father, He is willing to give it in abundance!
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.
James 1:5-6, ESV
“He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”
Isaiah 40:29-31, ESV
HIS STRENGTH AND HIS MERCY, EVEN IN OUR YOUTHFUL FAILINGS, IS MORE THAN WE COULD EVER IMAGINE.
And now, onto the May Favorites …
coming to value the power of prayer more than ever before
going out of my comfort zone and talking on the phone with people
wearing shorts and not being cold! *jaw drop*
watching The Chosen with brothers!
babysitting and writing a book with two precious girls
wondering why my arms hurt, and realizing that lifting heavy flower baskets was what did it!
singing with thirty youth and young adults, voices lifted high
commiserating with a fellow exam-taker about our nervousness
to-do lists that take up a whole page, messy and in different colors and styles of writing, complete with varying levels of legibility.
my crazy awesome Dad goofing off in the car and making us almost wet our pants laughing in the backseat!
writing a song with a picture as a prompt
staying up late, and going to bed early
a nerve-wracking piano recital and wobbly arms
wearing white pants at the piano recital, which made me feel like a bit of a rogue because they frequently change color based on the wearer’s care! XD
a friend not recognizing me at an event because I curled my hair!
the hilarity of six people eating ice cream at 9:30 at night, sharing three spoons!
The Word of God – living and active.
And now for the June favorites …
practicing piano like a maniac!
hangin’ out with homeschoolers
fireworks for some extremely belated birthdays!
GOING TO THE BEACH!!! (Okay, it was a lake, but I liked it!)
brunch with a couple other families, which turned into a huge unrelated project and games time!
a girls grad party with a bunch of my sweet friends, that was such a blast!
putting on my carpenter’s hat and building stands for said party!
emailing people 🤗
babysitting and playing goofy games with two-year-olds
my first voice recital (at which I stood too close to the speaker and the mic didn’t work, but I couldn’t tell! I could see my family in the audience gesturing that they couldn’t hear, and I just kept singing! 😝😭 It went otherwise well, though. 🤣
fencing with a friend and strategically figuring out how to fit six people on one quad!
swimming and dying and swimming and half-dying and swimming and not-dying-any-more 😂
learning that I aced a piano exam (despite shaky arms and the miles between heaven and earth, God worked miracles!)
finished reading one of my teensy little books I seem to have acquired … and almost completely forgot about the rest. *facepalm*
And now …. JULY GOALS!!
Search high and low to find a pumpkin pie recipe for my Dad!
Spend four hours each morning on high school work.
Lane swim at least twice a week (with my crazy lane partners, aka brother(s)!)
Finish reading the prophetic books, Obadiah to Malachi, and read all the “writings” books, except Psalms! (That, my friends, is reserved for August, when I will be the coolest counselor you have ever met! 🤣)
Attend Staff camp! WOOOHOOO!!
Take my final lifeguarding course! (Hence the swim practice!)
Get a tan. (True, I have burnt many times trying for this goal, but we shall see this summer whether new strategies will succeed or not! I just hope this doesn’t affect my outgoing personality … you know what they say, “Once burnt, twice shy.” 😝🤣
HOLD UP! MAKAYLA’S GONNA BE A COUNSELOR?!
Yes! In August I will be away from home in some beautiful gorgeous place where I go to this cool unnamed camp, and I will tell you all the deets and learning lessons when I come back! (As you should have grown to be used to by now! 😂) I am so excited for this opportunity, and so grateful to God for this blessing that He’s given me!
And that’s it! Tell me, y’all – how do you find passion in reading the Word of God? And relating to goals, what is one of the most exciting things you’re doing this coming month? Do you have any sensational summer plans? Chat with me in the comments!!
Can y’all believe it’s April!!?? How shocking that Makayla has actually returned to the blog with her goals post this month! 🤣 I’m so psyched to actually be finally doing this again!
But first, my friends; your monthly dose of inspiration. *sends out hugs to everyone who likes the inspiration* *relents and sends hugs to the other people too* XD
The last several months, I have done SO much that I couldn’t have predicted, but it was so fun! I made impromptu skating and snowboarding trips with family (and friends), began my final year of high school, and had a couple failures. Its been bumpy at times, y’all; but the wheels are still rolling, and I’m not done with this road yet!
With all the intensity surrounding me in life, with decisions needing to be made, obstacles, beliefs, exams to prep for, and summer plans to make, it feels weighty. Like I can’t just enjoy life on my porch; I have to drag my tired body and mind to my tasks. There’s so much to do in so little time with finite mental energy!
Yet I do want these things! I made the goal, and I was passionate about it; but now what?
I’ve been reading Jordan Peterson’s book “Beyond Order; 12 more rules for life”, and in that book, Peterson makes an interesting comment.
“However, I do not believe you should pursue happiness. If you do so, you will run right into the iteration problem, because “happy” is a right-now thing.”
Jordan Peterson, in his book, “Beyond Order: 12 More Rules For Life”
I may be the most joyful person you may ever meet, but I have the same question about “right-now happiness” that everyone else has;
“HOW?”
How do we have joy and happiness when what used to be fun and exciting is overwhelming and not so fun anymore? When the honeymoon years are over and we have to actually work at our relationships? When school takes more and more and gives less and less?
I realized the other day that I can do so much. Even if I am not the richest, most talented person in the world, I have a strong body and a beautiful life and a comfortable home and, most of all, an amazing God. I’ve been given a life so rich I can’t believe I haven’t realized before, just how much I have, and how much I can do.
“I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”
John 10:9-10, ESV (emphasis mine)
With this full life, what excuse do I have for not living to the full? May we seize every moment with excitement for life. May we not waste the wonderful blessing of the life we’ve been given, because we truly have been given so, so much. May we learn to give with the same generosity!
April Goals!
This month, apply the values of responsibility and commitment to my tasks and studies.
Practice piano one hour a day, 4-5 days a week.
Call, email, write a note or a letter to, or hang out with a friend every single day!
Finish “Beyond Order”, “How To Stop Worrying And Start Living”, and begin reading “12 Rules For Life”.
I have just a few very important goals this month, partly because I expect April to be super busy! We just remembered the biblical feast of Unleavened Bread, with the Passover meal, and we just loved celebrating and remember the redemption of God’s people! It is so meaningful for me as a Christ-follower to celebrate the biblical feasts, to see the amazing way that Christ acted on earth! It is truly incredible how our sin has been paid for and our righteousness won by our Passover Lamb, Yeshua Messiah!
I love celebrating the feasts, and assembling with other believers to remember the holy days as well! Along with school every day, spring is in the air, and I have no doubt I’ll be hopping outside much more often in the near future! (Jumping rope, clearly … 😝) I’m also so excited for the daily friendship challenge. It’ll be so fun!
What about the rest of you all? What are some of your goals this April, or just a goal you’re currently working towards? I’d love to hear about it!!
I am very excited to announce a cover reveal for a new poetry book, written by the amazing writer, Laurel Jean!
Book Title: “This Will Not Last”
Author: Laurel Jean
“Raw and achingly honest, This Will Not Last is a collection of poetry that captures the fluctuating emotions that lace life’s pathway.
Wonder, grief, happiness, and heartache all have their turn to shine in this collection, ultimately bowing to the truth of their transience…and the sturdy realization of God’s unshakeable goodness.”
While I haven’t read this book, I have been following Laurel’s blog for over a year and I LOVE her writing! The many poems on her blog are heartfelt and show a deep faith and passion for God’s Word. I am so glad and happy for her and for her first published work, and I hope you all check out her book!
Now for the cover reveal!
(Omigoodness, I get to do the dots thing!!!!!) 😲😝
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HERE IT IS!!!
Find Laurel’s original cover reveal post here! AND, the poetry book has now released, with an option for a super special signed copy!!! Also, be sure to follow her blog, where she shares sweet short stories, life updates, and of course, amazing poetry!
Hello friends! Welcome to the second post in a mini collab series I’m doing with Joy! We’re excited to bring you all our favorite verses from each of the Proverbs! (To check out our first posts, in which we shared our favorite verses from each of the Psalms, see my post here and Joy’s post here!)
What comes to mind when you think of the Proverbs? A fool and a wise man, standing side by side, compared in yawn-worthy language? Or a father, chatting with his son at the table, giving him tips on how to live for best success and fulfillment in life? Personally, I enjoy reading the Proverbs because if I have an issue, I’m bound to find at least one solution after flipping through a couple chapters. (The Proverbs is where I’ve gone when I’ve had “boy troubles”, by the way. It tends to shift one’s perspective quite a bit!)
Please please please read Joy’s post here as well! For those of you who didn’t see the last post, Joy is a blogger and writer who seeks to honor God through every word she pens. Her blog is full of fun stuff for believers and authors, and you all should totally head over and give her a follow! (Thanks for doing this collab with me, Joy!)
A couple years ago, a camp speaker recommended for those new to studying the Bible, to just read at least one chapter of the proverbs a day; since there’s 31 days in the month, you’ll finish by the end of the month, and still have some wisdom stuffed in your skull. It’s a free and easy bible-reading plan if there ever was one!
But for real, y’all. This advice was brilliant, and I’d encourage all of you who aren’t reading anything in particular, to take my challenge. Read a proverb a day for a month, then comment and let me know how it goes. I’d love to hear about the wonderful things God teaches you through it!
But now – for the post! I hope you enjoy!!
“A wise man will hear and increase learning, and a man of understanding will attain wise counsel.” ~ Proverbs 1:5
“Yes, if you cry out for discernment, and lift up your voice for understanding; If you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures; Then you will understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God.” ~ Proverbs 2:3-5
“For whom the Lord loves He corrects, just as a father the son in whom he delights.” ~ Proverbs 3:12
“Take firm hold of instruction, do not let go; Keep her, for she is your life.” ~ Proverbs 4:13
“For the ways of man are before the eyes of the Lord, and He ponders all his paths.” ~ Proverbs 5:21
“My son, keep your father’s command, and do not forsake the law of your mother. Bind them continually upon your heart; Tie them around your neck. When you roam, they will lead you; When you sleep, they will keep you; and when you awake, they will speak with you.” ~ Proverbs 6:20-22
“And saw among the simple, I perceived among the youths, a young man devoid of understanding.” ~ Proverbs 7:7
“Hear instruction and be wise, and do not disdain it.” ~ Proverbs 8:33
“Forsake foolishness and live, and go in the way of understanding.” ~ Proverbs 9:6
“The way of the Lord is strength for the upright, but destruction will come to the workers of iniquity.” ~ Proverbs 10:29
“As a ring of gold in a swine’s snout, so is a lovely woman who lacks discretion.” ~ Proverbs 11:22
“A man will be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth, and the recompense of a man’s hands will be rendered to him.” ~ Proverbs 12:14
“He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.” ~ Proverbs 13:20
“A sound heart is life to the body, but envy is rottenness to the bones.” ~ Proverbs 14:30
“The heart of the righteous studies how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours forth evil.” ~ Proverbs 15:28
“The preparations of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord. All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, But the Lord weighs the spirits. Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established.” ~ Proverbs 16:1-3
“He who has knowledge spares his words, and a man of understanding is of a calm spirit.” ~ Proverbs 17:27
“A man who has friends may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” ~ Proverbs 18:24
“Listen to counsel and receive instruction, that you may be wise in your latter days. There are many plans in a man’s heart, nevertheless the Lord’s counsel—that will stand.” ~ Proverbs 19:20-21
“Blows that hurt cleanse away evil, as do stripes the inner depths of the heart.” ~ Proverbs 20:30
“He who follows righteousness and mercy finds life, righteousness, and honor.” ~ Proverbs 21:21
“Thorns and snares are in the way of the perverse; He who guards his soul will be far from them.” ~ Proverbs 22:5
“Do not overwork to be rich; Because of your own understanding, cease! Will you set your eyes on that which is not? For riches certainly make themselves wings; They fly away like an eagle toward heaven.” ~ Proverbs 23:4-5
“My son, eat honey because it is good, and the honeycomb which is sweet to your taste; So shall the knowledge of wisdom be to your soul; If you have found it, there is a prospect, and your hope will not be cut off.” ~ Proverbs 24:13-14
“A righteous man who falters before the wicked is like a murky spring and a polluted well. It is not good to eat much honey; So to seek one’s own glory is not glory. Whoever has no rule over his own spirit is like a city broken down, without walls.” ~ Proverbs 25:26-28
“He who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his own is like one who takes a dog by the ears.” ~ Proverbs 26:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” ~ Proverbs 27:17
“He who trusts in his own heart is a fool, but whoever walks wisely will be delivered.” ~ Proverbs 28:26
“The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord shall be safe.” ~ Proverbs 29:25
“Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him.” ~ Proverbs 30:5
“Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised. Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her own works praise her in the gates.” ~ Proverbs 31:30-31
I love the Psalms and Proverbs, but I love them in different ways. When I’m in down in the dumps or in the mood to write a song, I flip to the Psalms – but when I’m looking for wisdom that I can apply to my life, I’ll go to the Proverbs. I love how the Proverbs were written, essentially, to youth – from a father to his son, on topics that are relevant to the lives of youth. Have you ever stopped to think about how teens struggle with some of the character traits described in the proverbs? On the positive side, hard work, obedience to God, selflessness, honoring parents, and commitment to faith are some traits that believing teens long for, but don’t take steps to develop. And on the flip side, teens can struggle with mental and physical purity, addictions, laziness, purposelessness, and being an inconsiderate friend.
The answers to all these struggles are found in the Proverbs. The long-term solution is found in the power of Christ’s holy spirit, which roots out sin and shows us our pitfalls clearly so we can repent and do better next time.
And that brings an end to the mini-series and collab with Joy! (Thank you so so soooo much for doing this collab with me, Joy!!) Although I’m not so sure I’m done forever – this was too much fun to give up totally! 🤣 But in the meantime, which proverbs did you like best? Which spoke to you in the place you’re in right now? I’d love to know some of your thoughts and favorite verses from the Proverbs!
Hello, all! This post is waaay overdue, and for that I am terribly sorry! But I hope y’all will still enjoy it, and that Laurel, Amber, and Chloe will be gracious even if they’re stewin’ a bit on the inside! XD (And, of course, Joy Caroline!) I told y’all I was hoarding these! 😅
First, the Reflections Blog Tag by Laurel Jean, from laurel-jean.com, for the Reflections Tag! Thanks you SO much, Laurel, I’m so excited!!
You guys, if there’s a blog that excites me, it’s Laurel’s! She posts about life, faith, the Bible, and even some of her own short stories! I definitely recommend following her blog if you want some deep, soul-searching and yet still fun, content to look forward to!
The rules:
Thank the person who tagged you.
Share 8 things that God has blessed and/or taught you in 2020.
Tag 5+ bloggers.
Blessing – I’ve made many new friends, and deepened old friendships.
I’m a very relationship-oriented person, and I love connecting with new people! I have been so blessed with the many people in my life who have encouraged me in life and inspired me in faith. Cheers to all of you who have been so uplifting and stuck by me, even when I mess up!
2. Lesson – Be a friend to the friendless.
I’ve been feeling really convicted because I find that I’m not normally very welcoming to new people when we have people over. Sometimes it’s like I’m just “comfortable” being with the people I’ve known for a while, and I forget that there are people who are lonely, who need love just as much as my long-time friends do. So I’ve definitely been learning this a lot, every time I meet a new person.
3. Lesson – Trust and obey Him in all things.
It’s still so unclear just what it is that God wants me to take initiative and choose for my life, or what it is that HE wants to lead me into. But although the future remains unclear, I know that there are some things which He has commanded in His Word, and which I can obey with full confidence that I’m doing the right thing for me, right now. ❤
4. Lesson – Love
This is something that I’ve really been beginning to understand more in 2021, but I think it began in 2020. All my life, I have ‘believed’ that God existed, and for much of my life, I have learned about the Bible and my faith – but all the internal faith in the world is “dead faith” without the actions which prove it.
“All the faith in the world is “dead faith” without the actions to prove it.”
~ MakaylaJesalyn
I’ve been trying to act with love towards my family and friends, and with my family (since I’m always around them) it requires a lot of self-control to not do what I immediately feel like doing and to not say what I immediately feel like saying. With my friends, it has involved a lot of thinking about what would be the kind way to act towards them or the appropriate thing to say.
5. Blessing – my family. I have realized recently that my family is abnormally supportive, loving, and generous with me. I have been so blessed with my parents, and I wouldn’t trade them for the world. ❤
6. Lesson – We have such a short window of time in which to love people, before life, hardships, and unforeseen opportunities get in the way. A friend of a friend of mine has gone missing recently, and praying for that situation has really made me ponder the atrocities of kidnapping and other abusive and immoral activities. It makes me feel the pain of the families who have lost their loved ones, and wish that I could do something about it, to try and make things a little brighter for them, or help them in some way.
7. Blessing – Living in a beautiful country, where spring is so gorgeous! XD
8. Lesson – Taking time to read The Word is really instrumental to spiritual growth. I go through phases where I read more than at other times, but I feel so much stronger when I’ve spent some time in the Bible, learning new things about God and His nature, and about the history of my faith.
Also, my beautiful friend Amber nominated me for the Bookworm Tag! You guys, her posts are so inspirational, fun, and beautiful, so please, do yourself a favor and follow her to see all her amazing upcoming posts!!
The Rules:
Thank and link to the blogger who nominated you
Include the tag graphic in your post
Answer the ten questions the blogger asked
Nominate between five and ten bloggers
Ask your nominees ten book-related questions!
Don’t feel bound to these rules
(Most importantly) Have fun!
OKAY guys! Let’s get started!!
What is your favorite writing style? I don’t know any terms for writing styles, but I do know that I love lots of conversations, and either first person or third person are enjoyable. (Like anyone would write a book in second person … hehe.)
On average, how long does it take you to read a 400 page book? If I abandon my schoolwork … 😅 … between 2 and 3 hours.
What is your favorite book series? I LOVE the “Books of the Infinite” series by RJ Lawson! A friend loaned them to me, and they are just unspeakably amazing! (But I also enjoyed “The Journals of Corrie Belle Hollister” and the “Left Behind” series.)
If you were to write a book/novel, what type of book would it be? Probably adventure/mystery/historical fiction. Or a nonfiction advice book.
Do you take the dust jacket (or ‘book cover protector’) off when reading a book? Never! (Unless I own it and it got ripped.)
If you could only read 3 books for the rest of your life, what books would they be? The Bible .. *oh wow, I’ve been sitting here trying to think of two more but can’t* …
Is there a certain book that you thought you’d hate, but ended up really liking it? Well, I don’t normally read books that I think I’ll hate … I honestly can’t think of one. There have been times, though, that I start out really excited for a book, but end up really hating how it goes.
Would you prefer to read in a library, or in a park? PARK!! PARK!!! Did someone say, “walk?!” *pant, pant*
And finally, we have the lovely Chloe nominating me for the Liebster Award (because I didn’t say no tag-backs. 😅) So thank you so much, Chloe!! I’m really excited to answer these questions! Chloe blogs about acting and really has a touch for writing, so y’all should be sure to check out her blog!!
Okay, now for the rules:
First, thank the person who nominated you, include a link to their blog, and add the Liebster Award badge to your blog and/or post.
Next answer the eleven questions from the person who nominated you.
Give eleven random facts about yourself.
Nominate 5-11 fellow bloggers with less than 200 followers. (We just gwine ignore that liddle detail … ehehe.)
Notify your nominees that you nominated them for the Liebster Award.
Last, but certainly not least, ask your nominees eleven questions.
And here are Chloe’s questions for me!!
If you had three wishes, what would you wish for? First, I would wish for every child in the world who is hungry, naked, abused, or alone, to be given God’s love, fed, clothed, healed, and safe in someone’s arms. Second, I would wish for absolutely clear skin. Third, I would wish that I could own a 20 mile section of land in a forested mountainous area.
Do you like hedgehogs? *looks up what they look like* Awww, they’re so cute! A’course I like them! XD
Can you speak any languages other than English? I can’t really speak more than a few words in any given language, but I can *sort of* read a little Latin, French, Spanish, Hebrew, and, or course, English! 😉
Do you like licorice? I can tolerate it, but it’s not my first choice of candy.
Do you have any pet peeves? People (like my past self *shudders*) who focus on the bane of all teenage stupidity … crushes *shudders at having to utter that dirty word.* (Note that crushes are a natural part of life, but should simply not be the focus of our lives.)
What’s your dream pet? Bay American Quarter Horse. *sighs* Just .. perfection.
Do you have any allergies? No allergies, just sensitivities. I’ve gotten sick countless times after consuming sugar (and once after consuming pork.)
What’s your biggest dream? (Go as big as you want!) Hmmmmm …. To own a youth camp and minister to the hearts and lives of teenagers, and hopefully to inspire them and help them find their passion in life. I see so much spiritual apathy in the lives of modern teens, even in the lives of some teens who call themselves Christians, and I want to build as much change as possible!
What did you want to be when you were little? A firefighter, an actor, a star singer, a pilot, a detective, a lawyer, a spy, a girlfriend … *eye roll* I wanted it all, baby! Now I’m a little more realistic.
What’s one website you tend to get lost on? (… *whispers* Pinterest…) Yes. Yes girl. Pinterest. And Whisk.
Do you like to cook/bake, and if so, what do you like to make most? Quiche, definitely. Sorry Chloe, I know it sounds like I’m copying you here, (since quiche is a pie) but I guess we both find it therapeutic! (Plus, it tastes amazing! 😜)
The one award I’m doing which isn’t even remotely late is this one from Joy Caroline! Thanks for “nominating me” for the Sunshine Blogger Award, Joy!! 🤣
1. Thank the blogger who nominated you and link back to their blog.
2. Answer all the 11 questions sent by the person who nominated you.
3. Nominate 11 new blogs to receive the award and write them 11 new questions.
4. List the rules and display the Sunshine Blogger Award logo in your blog post.
Okay, now for the questions!
Do you prefer the color pink or the color purple? Actually, that’s hard … I like them both! It depends on the shade. In purple, I like rich tones, but in pink, I’m starting to like more pale and muted tones.
2. What’s your favorite fruit? Mango!!! Or raspberry. I’m TORN!! XD
3. Where did you see God today? My own hypocrisy and lack of perfection reminded me that I have far to go in my sensitivity towards others. I want to love others the way that I’m meant to as a child of God.
4. Do you enjoy assembling puzzles? Yes! Although I haven’t in a while, I love doing flower/garden puzzles.
5. What is the last sentence you wrote in your work-in-progress? Alternatively (if you’re not a writer), what is the last sentence you read in a book, and which book was it?
(Okay all. Time for some backstory. This is a WIP which I have attempted to rewrite after completely losing it (although admittedly, I only had the ideas mapped out, so I didn’t lose much), and have hardly touched in the last few months, so here’s the last sentence in the first chapter (because the last sentence I wrote has no context whatsoever, and this sentence is cooler anyway. 😉)
“A raven cawed once, twice – Then there was nothing left to the night, except the soft howling of the wind.”
~ When Night Falls
I hope I really aggravated you writers out there with my fantastically mysterious excerpt. XD
6. Can you juggle? If you can’t, do you know someone who can? I can’t, but some of my brothers are passable! XD
7. What is your favorite element in the periodic table? I don’t know! *checks periodic table* Well, give me a while to pick a favorite, but in the meantime, I’ll just say the 79th, gold, abbreviated as “Au”.
8. Can you recite the alphabet backwards? Nope. *tries* Nope. Definitely can’t. Not unless I’m looking at it. 😉
9. What is your favorite adjective? *checks WIP* I love adjectives a LOT, but I try my best not to re-use them in at least a few chapters. XD I really like ‘stunning’, ‘tenacious’, ‘eclectic’, ‘dynamic’, and ‘ambitious’.
10. Did you eat breakfast this morning? Yes! I’m ravenous if I skip breakfast, so it’s probably a good thing that I consumed some eggs this morning! XD
11. What is your favorite book of the Bible? I can’t choose! I have so many favorites! But if I had to choose the one I would read the most, probably the Psalms and Proverbs. But I also love Isaiah, Ruth, and Ecclesiastes.
Alrighty, here are my questions for those who have been nominated! (Phew, I ran out of people to nominate! Let’s say that if your name contains the letter “a”, you are hereby nominated for any award you want to do! Be sure to comment with the link to your post below, I would really enjoy reading it!)
Have you ever gone on a hike by yourself? Did you enjoy it?
Do you want to be famous someday?
Do you like or dislike perogies? For what reason?
Should mathematics be banned from the school system requirements entirely? *please say no*
What flavor chocolate is your favorite, or what flavor would you invent?
What movie, podcast, or article really made you deeply contemplate a sensitive topic?
Have you ever broken a bone? If so, which one(s)?
How high is your pain tolerance?
On a scale of 1-10, how much do you like the kind of education you are enrolled in? (ie, high school, college, university, etc.)
What is the extent of your cooking/baking experience?
What is one thing you are super passionate about? (My signature question!)
Thanks everyone for sticking around! I hope you enjoyed this post!
What were the causes and consequences of the Hundred Years’ War?
The Hundred Years War involved England and France in their battle for control over their respective countries. The conflict could not be stopped, as both sides were actually slavering to enter the war. The English won many victories, but no matter how close they ever came to winning, it wasn’t ever quite close enough. The French people, however, lost morale when they saw how little headway they were making, even with the heavy taxes that had been levied, and they joined in an uprising called the bloody and mad “Jacqeries” revolt. Overall, the Hundred Years War resulted in many deaths, about a hundred years of bad political relations, many years of uncomfortable national dissatisfaction, unnecessary familial strife, and no positive resolution for the English.
What was the Great Western Schism, and how was it resolved?
The Great Western Schism began with the gathering of a Roman mob, begging the college of cardinals to appoint a Pope. As the axes pounded on the Church doors, the elders grew more frantic. Uncertain of what to do but pushed by desperation, the Church officials gave the people what they wanted, in an Italian man named Bartolomeo Prignano, who becomes known as Pope Urban VI.
However, Pope Urban VI soon began to display some unsavory characteristics. He displays hostility and violence to his subjects. When the Church observed his actions, they concluded that perhaps the previously even-tempered man had gone insane. They abandoned Pope Urban VI under explanation of his election having been under duress (pressure from the mob.) They then appointed a new Pope – a Frenchman, who becomes known as Pope Clement VII, and told the first to step down. However, Pope Urban VI would not give up his papal office; so the poor Church was left with two popes and a divided Church!
An Ecumenical Council was convened in 1409, the Council of Pisa, to elect one Pope, so that the Church could be unified once again. But no sooner had they elected the right man (Pope Martin V), that they realized that the problem was not solved – the result was THREE Popes, none of whom wanted to step down! (Of course, the first two were eventually placated and persuaded to step down, but the damage had been done … the Church had symbolically split, East and West, and was on its way to further division.)
Hey everyone! As per the title, today I’ll be sharing some of the blogs I recently started/joined that I am super pumped about! Feel free to check out each one and follow along!!!
Higher Ground is my new school blog! I started it so I could organize my essays onto another blog meant specifically for school, so that if you want my lifestyle and wellness posts instead of my school posts (or vice versa) you can choose to follow (or not follow!) my different blogs. Visit Higher Ground here!
(above is my funky collage – excuse the rather amatuer format!)
Y’all, this is my dream blog! A place where I can share with girls just how much they are worth and how much they can accomplish if they only believed in themselves and held onto their faith. If you want to guest-post on it too, just let me know! And I’d love it if you’d give me a follow so you could see my new posts when I begin to write!
The mission of this blog is to encourage and uplift teenage girls throughout their teenage years, in the easy and the hard times. I want to help girls become strong in their faith and find their identity in the Truth of God’s Word. I’ll be sharing and writing all sorts of articles on here, covering topics like faith, health, beauty, fitness, getting through teen life, and so much more!! Visit “Wake up, Girls!” here!
Also, I joined my first collab blog!Friends of Faith has an amazing mission and I know there’ll be some amazing stuff coming up! Go and check out the blog, it’s really awesome! I’ve only posted once on it but I hope to speed things up a bit in the near future! (I love the concept of Friends of Faith – being in the Word and dwelling on things of the Spirit, daily!)
All right, thanks everyone for coming on! Be sure to check out these blogs, like if you like, and maybe even give them a follow if you LOVE!! See ya next time, and STAY AWESOME!!!
Makayla
What would this post be without an ad for this blog? 🤣 Yah’s Girl has been around for almost a year, and I post fairly regularly on a wide variety of topics!! Join the crew by following to get some fantastic updates!
(Y’all may have noticed that I’m doing more “blog” posts now! Don’t hold me to it, but I do hope to keep it up! I’ll be posting more essays soon too, once I’ve had a chance to do all the editing. (I know you all love them!😉)
So, on to the piece de resistance … the quiche recipe! This recipe is sourced from The Milk Calendar cookbook recipes, which are ages old! It’s been my favorite breakfast ever since I can remember. Lately my younger brother and I have been making this non-stop!
This quiche is savory and, as a bonus, its actually healthy too! Perfect for every meal – at breakfast, serve it with fruit and sausage – at lunch, serve with greens or cauliflower – or at supper, serve with potatoes and corn!
And the best part? It’s easy!
Ingredients:
1 pie shell (see the Little Sweet Baker’s post here for the most amazing crust recipe you will ever make in your entire life! Using lard substitutes was always tedious and unsatisfying until I found this simple, fast, and incredibly flaky recipe! I could rant on for hours about it!)
1 tsp. mustard
1 cup chopped broccoli (or 1 cup whole spinach leaves)
1 cup grated cheese
3 eggs
½ tsp. pepper
1 tsp. salt
1 Tbsp. Dill
¼ tsp. Nutmeg
a pinch of cayenne pepper (or two, or three, for those of y’all who like a lot of spice!)
Instructions:
1. Brush mustard over the bottom of the crust. Place broccoli and cheese in crust.
2. Whisk eggs, milk, dill, and spices in a bowl, then pour over the broccoli and cheese.
3. Bake at 350 degrees F. for 40 minutes, or until verrry lightly browned and firm.
And that’s it!
I really hope you enjoy making this recipe! (And I beg you to use the Sweet little Bakers’ recipe for the crust, which is just perfection!)
Until next time, I hope that all 200+ of you have amazingly wonderful day!
Hey y’all! I’m here with the awesome Liebster award! I was nominated by several people and I picked it up from another, so I’ve got a ton of questions to answer! Hope you find them interesting and thought-provoking!
Here are the rules!
First, thank the person who nominated you, include a link to their blog, and add the Liebster Award badge to your blog and/or post.
Next answer the eleven questions from the person who nominated you.
Give eleven random facts about yourself.
Nominate 5-11 fellow bloggers with less than 200 followers.
Notify your nominees that you nominated them for the Liebster Award.
Last, but certainly not least, ask your nominees eleven questions.
Firstly, I was nominated by Grace, from “Don’t you know I’m singing”! Thanks so much, Grace!! I loved how fun and deep your questions were! (Y’all, I have to admit though, I have the same answers as some of the other bloggers who were awarded! *covers face*) Here’s the link to her post … Liebster Award – Don’t you know I’m singing!
Questions and Answers …
What is one line/verse from one song that you really love, and why? I really love this line from Rend Collective’s song ‘Revival Anthem’ … “We will praise you when our hearts are breaking, praise you when our world is caving, we will not, we will not be moved.” Annnd also this line from “Sing it from the Shackles” … “You’re my deliverer, My anthem throughout it all, When my strength and my fight is gone, I know You will come through.” These songs echo the hope I need right now.
What is a song you absolutely hate, and why? “Closer”, by Chainsmokers. At volleyball they played it all the time, so when I started listening a little closer to the lyrics I was shocked it even existed! Then in my “Christian” Homeschool group, the other teens loved it! I’m not ridiculing them, but it seemed really sad to 14-yr-old me that they called themselves”Christians”, yet didn’t act like Christ-followers at all.)
What are your thoughts on politics, and a Christian’s role in that realm? I know that politics are a big part of life, and especially as seen with the regulations imposed recently, our leaders have a huge impact on our lives. If we choose more carefully, perhaps our lives will be better, but I have come to realize that our hope is not found in our earthly leaders, but in our heavenly Leader. As far as my personal involvement in politics, it goes no further than animated discussions with family and friends, and eagerly awaiting the time when Christ’s kingdom will abolish all earthly “authorities”.
Who, aside from your parents, siblings, and relatives, has been a role model in your life, and how/why did they become a role model to you? Many of my friends have become my role models, and in different ways – some of them I admire for their talents, some for their faith, some for their habits and accomplishments – I try to learn from those I admire rather than idolizing them or making them my hero, because no ones perfect. One of my role models is actually my mom’s best friend – she is a truly amazing woman, everything you could ever dream to be – beautiful, hard-working, loving and caring, a good mother, a wonderful cook and home-maker, a supportive wife, and full of vibrancy and faith. She bursts with energy and is always so sweet. I know nobody’s perfect, but she seems pretty close!
Do you celebrate Christmas in your family? Why or why not? Our family does not celebrate Christmas, because it is not commanded or endorsed in the Bible and many of the traditions have some pretty scary pagan roots. We do, however, celebrate the Biblical feasts like Passover and Sukkot (Tabernacles), and they are so much more meaningful and fun than the worldly holidays!
What’s your favorite aspect of creation? I think my favorite aspect would be the sky – sunrises, clouds, stars …
If there was one talent you could magically have, what would it be? A perfect memory!
Do you have any allergies/dietary restrictions? And what are they? I have no allergies (for which I am so grateful!) … however, we don’t eat any of the unclean foods described in Leviticus 11. With a little research, you’ll find that not only are we commanded not to eat them, they are some pretty nasty and unhealthy little critters too!!
If you could time travel into the future or the past, which way would you go? Forwards or backwards? Backwards … I’d rather go back to happier times, than forward into uncertain times.
What movie/book character have you read/watched whose personality seemed to be exactly the same as yours, and who was the opposite? I think I’m a cross between Phillippa Gordon, in the Anne of Green Gables Series, and Tris Prior, in the Divergent trilogy. I identify with Phillipa’s spur-of-the-moment attitude, love of her friends, honesty and insecurities, and bubbly personality! I love Tris’ daredevil qualities, loyalty, and blunt honesty. I’m the polar opposite of Jane Bingley, from Pride and Prejudice. (She’s nice, selfless, virtuous, and always thinks the best of people.)
What are your personal boundaries on what you can/shouldn’t watch or listen to in the area of entertainment as a Christian? I try to evaluate my books on how I would feel if I died in the middle of them and someone found me like that! XD I hardly watch any movies and prefer not to, but if there’s a good (and I mean, it has to be really good) documentary or Christian film I’m in! The kinds of music I would listen to, and occasionally do, is music which uplifts and strengthens and encourages me, fills my head with good messages, and doesn’t make me feel things I shouldn’t. I don’t like cuss words, and I don’t like immoral messages, and that goes for all my literature, film, and music choices.
This set of questions was posted on my friend Jasmine’s blog! Thanks for nominating ‘whoever read it’, Jazz! 😉 She doesn’t do awards anymore, but I thought I’d grab this from the archives since it looked like fun (plus, it’s great publicity for her too!!) So head on over and check her out! Here’s the link to her post: Liebster Award – Bookworm.
Without further ado, let’s start in on the questions! *rolls up sleeves*
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? (In 5 years, I will have graduated from high school. In the three years since graduating, I hope to have gotten a full-time job (or part-time business,) played volleyball on an actual team, and decided whether to ranch or become a lawyer.)
Favorite ice cream flavor? My favorite ice cream flavor is either mint chocolate chip, or chocolate, or vanilla, or caramel, or … need I go on?
Have you played or do you play any sports? Yes! I have played on soccer, basketball, and volleyball teams, but I play mostly volleyball now.
Describe your idea of a perfect day! Go to bed at 8:45 in a tent in the BC mountains at Gardom Lake the night before. Wake up at 6:00 AM. Go for a walk with my best friends. Make breakfast in the lodge. Go swimming and kayaking on the lake. Study the Bible with Nehemia Gordon and Keith Johnson. Play volleyball and worship jam with my Bible study group. Get an email offer from Capitol Records to contract an album. Get an acceptance and scholarship letter from Prairie or Briercrest. My acne magically disappears. Roast marshmallows over a huge bonfire with all the gang. Sing campfire songs. Play dark tag – with flashlights – in the forest. Go to bed at 1:00 AM. Sleep in til 10:00. (Was that too detailed?🤣)
Something you’ve made recently? A few sketches and paintings, some of which I hope to show in an art post sometime soon!
Tell us where your ideas come from. I pull them out of my sock drawer. 😎 JK! Actually, when I get inspired, it could be from anything! Often, normal, boring activities make my poor brain try to compensate by making lists, or making up a story in my head.
Tell us the book you’ve learned the most from. The Bible, hands-DOWN!! (I also loved “The 7 Habits of Highly effective Teens” by Sean Covey, “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie, “Horse Speak”, by Sharon Wilsie, and “An old-fashioned Girl” by Louisa May Alcott.)
Fave magazines. I don’t have any magazine subscriptions but I love to read any fashion, interior design, or christian teen girl magazines I can get my hands on!
Share a personal experience/choice that has improved your writing. Taking the Ron Paul Curriculum has, without a doubt, drastically contributed to the quality of my writing. (See this essay on the many benefits of taking the RPC!!) My love of reading has provided me with a pretty extensive vocabulary! Also, taking the Challenge program forced me to do my research and find synonyms in order to “not plagiarize”.
A few days later, I was nominated by Laurel Jean! Thank you, Laurel! 🤗 Please do check her out, she’s got some amazing posts which are great for reading and discussion! Heres the link to her original post: Liebster Award.
How did you choose the name for your blog? (I chose “Yah’s Girl” partly because I wanted a name that drew attention to faith in YHVH instead of just to me, but also because I was out of ideas! I may change the name in the future, so any ideas from y’all readers out there?)
If you could work any job for one week, what job would it be, and why? (I would love to be a firefighter for one week. I would need to be ready at any moment to give up my safety for someone’s house or workplace, or even give my life for another. If I came out of it alive, it would be a strengthening, awe-inspiring experience that I believe would change me forever.)
What is the biggest thing you’ve learned from blogging? (Now that I think of it – one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that appearances aren’t always what they seem. Sometimes I follow a blogger, and later find out that the person I thought was pretty perfect is actually dealing with *gasp* issues!! (JK) Seriously though, it leads to becoming more sensitive to others and trying to really understand them; which is a great quality to develop.)
What does your ideal weekend look like? (Sleeping in on Shabbat and eating breakfast as a family, then watching a couple bible teachings and discussing them; hanging out with the pals from the Bible Study group from noon til midnight, reading the Bible, singing, and playing sports or running games!)
Do you set goals for the New Year? (I set new goals every month, but I don’t set New Years goals, per se.)
What is the best book (aside from the Bible) that you’ve read, and why do you think so? (Aside from the Bible! Aw, come on! 😉🤣 I don’t know which I’ve learned the most from, but I’ll choose one, just for kicks! “Horse Speak”, by Sharon Wilsie. I read it when I was trying to figure out a friend’s horse, and although I don’t agree with everything in the book, I found it really thought-provoking as it forced me to think extra hard about the body language I show and how others could perceive it. My friends thought I was crazy for trying to communicate with a horse, but y’all, it’s legit!😅)
What was the best thing that happened to you in 2020? So many things, but since you said ‘best’ … in the last few months I got real about my faith. I didn’t know how to have long prayer times or long Bible study times by myself. I love worship singing, so that wasn’t a problem, but I needed to expand my comfort zone and do it for YHVH. He is so good and is currently in the process of ripping out and replacing the drywall in my heart. It really hurts, but I know it’ll look better in the end. 😊🙏.
Which historical figure do you most admire, and why? King Josiah of Israel. He walked in YHVH’s ways all the years of his life. What’s unique about him, is that he began seeking YHVH at age 16. I identify with him because of his age (lol!) but also because he sought YHVH at a time when it wasn’t popular. I feel its a similar situation today, and am so glad to see more teens stepping up.
Where do you hope to see yourself in 10 years? It really all depends on YHVH’s plan, because there is no way I will proceed into the future without His blessing. BUT … In ten years I’d like to be married to an amazing guy, managing teens camp and discipling young teens in the Word.
If you knew that today was your last day on earth, how would you spend it? I’d meet up with all my friends and tell them everything I’ve ever been hesitant to say – I’d write letters to people for their future birthdays – I’d get in my heart and help YHVH with that drywall job, because I want to be ready. In fact, maybe I’d better start doing some of that now …
What is your favorite Bible verse, and why? I love 1 Timothy 4:12. “Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers; in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity.” I also love Romans 12:2. “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” These verses are pretty much my anthems – what makes me want to change and stay set-apart from people’s expectations of “an average Christian teen”, and be a part of something so much greater, although no one may ever think I’m famous.
Well thanks again, Laurel! I LOVED answering these!
I was just about ready to post this, when Grace over at Vibrant for Jesus nominated me!! I’m so glad she did, ’cause I love her questions! Thanks so much, Grace!!
If you could only have three books of the Bible, which ones would you pick? Ahhh, don’t do this to me!!! Wellll …. I’ve recently begun to read the whole Bible straight through, so let’s just choose among the ones I’ve read so far on this goal, which would be Genesis to Micah. Ummmm, I’d have to choose Deuteronomy, Psalms, and Isaiah. But that was so hard! 😉 I’m so grateful that we have the WHOLE Bible!
What’s something that the Lord has been teaching you lately? Whew, thats a question all right! YHVH has recently been teaching me that when I ask him for advice, I need to take it! It sounds crazy, but sometimes I ignore what he responds because I don’t like it – but that’s not trust, is it?
How would you explain salvation to someone who has never heard of Jesus? “God, the one and only, has a name, Yahovah. He came into our human dimension as Yeshua, Jesus, so that he could bring us back into covenant with him. Jesus showed us what it means to fully obey and love God, and through His sacrifice we have forgiveness of all our sins, if we repent and turn from wickedness.”
What are three of your favorite inspiring quotes? 1) “Work Hard; Dream Big.” 2) “Only in the darkness can you see the stars.” 3) “Imagine a guy, praying to God that he gets to marry you!” (I’ve included the image below, because it just pops with meaning! Listen, I know it sounds kinda cheesy, but it just fills me with hope for the future and peace about God’s plan. That ‘guy’, whoever he is, is out there, and praying about it, and imagining him praying about it, makes it all much more real and keeps me focused on the true goal in relationships – to honor God through it all, not turning it into something romantic or awkward, but keeping it real and present and having fun and enjoying just being friends. Aaaah, I have to make a post on this, cuz this is getting way too long! 😉)
What three words would you use to describe who Jesus is to you? Emmanuel. Savior. King.
What do you spend the majority of your day doing? Thinking. 😛 Really, I do a ton of variety during the day, but what it all boils down to are the things I love or believe in – working hard, education and learning, music and artsy stuff, and writing.
What are five historical characters you admire? 1) Louisa May Alcott. Not only did she believe in a simpler way for women to be beautiful – through cultivating their inner beauty and their character – but she wrote fiction that showed young women blooming into maturity and beauty, and gave us all a glimpse of what a sweet and perfect young woman is. 2) The Ten Booms. During WWII, The Ten Boom family hid Jews from the Nazis who wanted to capture and destroy them. They were such noble and strong people, and the persecution that they suffered for protecting YHVH’s chosen nation was horrendous, leading to two of their deaths. Corrie Ten Boom escaped with her life, and wrote an amazing biography called “The Hiding Place.” I admire her so much for her resilience and faith, during some of the darkest times the world has ever seen. 3) Bethany Hamilton. Granted, she’s still alive, but she’s still historical!! I admire her determination for not giving up on surfing even though she’d lost her arm in a shark attack. She perservered and beat her own body, and gave thanks to God for it. 4) The leaders of the American Revolution. They had everything to lose, and nothing physical to gain. Their only gain? Freedom. Freedom to have faith. Freedom to support their families and move up in life, unfettered. Freedom to obey God’s Laws instead of man’s. That’s true freedom. 5) Arnold Schwarzzenegger. Yeah … maybe a little weird, but hear me out! While I don’t agree with everything in his personal life, he was a politician, businessman, successful actor, and a guy who broke the expectations set for him in everything (not to mention that he attained an insane fitness level.) He was committed and determined, and that’s what I admire about him.
Do you prefer reading out of your paper Bible or your digital one? Oh, my paperback, ALLLL the way! I love underlining, circling, or starring important phrases/passages/things I want to remember, and to me it just feels so much more “I’m reading the Word of God” if I’m holding a literal book in my hand as opposed to looking at a screen. But I often do find it helpful to cross-reference using digital bible tools, like the interlinear.
When you are sad, angry or hurt what’s a Bible passage that ministers to you? At the top of my head, Isaiah 43. It outlines just who we are as children of the King – sought after, treasured, and brought home. But it’s not often I seek any specific chapter in the Bible when I’m hurting – I’ll pray, or just blindly pick up the Bible and flip to where I’m reading in an efort to forget about whatever hurtful thing happened.
If you are joyful, happy, or excited what’s a Bible passage that helps you worship? I don’t have a specific one, but I love to praise through any hopeful, joyful, or thankful passage that can be put to song! I’ve written songs based on Biblical passages in the past and it really makes the Word come alive for me!
What helps you to be focused on Jesus throughout the day? Honestly, I often fail to be focused on Jesus throughout the day. Life catches up and I lose sight of what matters. But I find that I live more productively, consciously, and faithfully when I make studying The Word a priority.
This is not my pic – all credit goes to the owner, whoever they are. 😊
My questions for all of y’all! Sorry that the first two are a bit goofy!
What was your first thought when you saw your name on the nominee list?
Did it take the ambulance members long to revive you after you realized you’d have to do this award? *giggles*
What’s one of your favorite books of the Bible, and why?
What’s your favorite genre of music?
What is something you’re really passionate about?
How would other people describe you?
Where do you find hope when you’re feeling hopeless?
What’s your favorite thing about yourself?
What is your biggest fear?
What is something you wish you could tell your ten-year-old-self?
Where do you want to be in five years?
And finally, here are the eleven random things about me!
I have a habit of sticking pencils in my hair … and leaving them there and forgetting about them!
If you see me wearing a dress, it’s either because my parents made me, or my jeans are all in the wash. Or I might just be in a “dressy” mood (which almost never happens!)
I’ve always wanted to learn to surf, but never had the chance.
My room is almost never messy. (Ha. I just destroyed the typical teenager stereotype.)
I am a night owl AND a morning person.
I hated peanut butter with a passion, up until a year or two ago. And now I could eat it every day!
I might be on a Keto diet, mediterranean diet, intermittent fasting program, or health kick – but the minute you set a cookie in front of me, I’ll forget it all.
If I could spend all day with my friends, I would wake up happy for a week!
I’ve never liked video games – the longest time I’ve played is around 10 minutes of minecraft when I was 10 years old.
If I’m in my room, listening to a video, with my door closed, and my parents are on the other side of the house whispering, I can hear what they’re saying. 😶 Don’t worry, they know!!
I have had so. many. often-weird. nicknames. (Mikki, Mik, Killah, Kayla, Sis, Jess, Rosebud, Mak, Makalay, Makayler, Obsessed-kitty-girl, KK, Bell Bottoms, and *shudders* Macky.)
This was SOOOOO much fun, and this time, I actually nominated the quota of people! XD I hope you all found this enjoyable! Any thoughts? Rants? Questions? Talk to me in the comments! 👇
Thanks for coming back to the blog! Be sure to subscribe for future content on faith, fitness, lifestyle and more!
I feel like I really haven’t shared a lot about my life on this blog … I’ve been so focused on being sure I’m getting my essays up that I’m forgetting to be fun and personal! Well, this post is gonna be all about my personal life, and maybe you’ll even find it fun too!!😂
Oooookay! *cracks knuckles*
School
I’ve been steadily working on school and catching up on my Literature essays, especially. Stay on the lookout for some deep theological discussions soon! Speaking of which, send in your bible questions! My friend, SonofYHWH, does this on his blog and it looks like he’s having so much fun, so! Ask me your questions! I’d love to study and make a post to answer them!
Music
Yes, this gets its own section! I’ve been playing my violin about four days a week in the last … week and a half? Anyhoo, I’m working on ear training and playing chord sheets simply by recognizing the key. (It’s going as well as can be expected for a beginner violinist!) But I’m having so much fun! (Tip: focus on proper form with the hand that holds the violin. My improper form is really tripping me up at this stage!)
Piano is going much better. I’m working on my level 6 and 7, which include studying 18 different scales in one year *gasps* I’ve learned SO much with my new teacher! Its amazing.
Lifestyle
You guys! For breakfast, just crack a ton of eggs and shred some cheese into the bowl. Whisk it, then shuffle it around on the frying pan (don’t forget to add the salt!) It’s so good and healthy, and you can play with it by adding onions, garlic, and other veggies. I love adding spinach and mushrooms.
Okay I’m done being a foodie! Moving on to my daily routine …
6:00 AM – Get up, go to work.
8:30 AM – Come back and eat breakfast
9:00 AM – Violin, clean up room, respond to blog comments
10:00 AM – Start school
12:00 AM – Blogging
1:00 PM – Essays, Piano practice
*normally the afternoon isn’t as structured as my morning. I do my house chores, draw, blog, play chess, fold laundry, bake, study the bible, etc.*
5:00 PM – Supper (with my family)
6:00 PM – Go to work
9:00 PM – Come home, skincare, pleasure reading
10:00 PM – Bedtime *normally … hehe*
Favorite songs — Theme: “In Trials”
The River (Jordan Feliz)
This is THE awesomest song! I’ve known it forever and love it!! I played it at my baptism this summer and for me it really symbolizes starting over and being made clean.
A More Beautiful You (Johnny Diaz)
Another song from the days of my (early!) youth! It’s an amazing song because it targets every young woman listening, wondering if she could ever be the ideal “beautiful” person. The song deals with common inner struggles, and says that none of those can define you if you abandon them and move forward. God doesn’t make mistakes when he made you and me, and you are beautiful just the way you are!
Scars (I Am They)
First time I heard this one, I cried. This song is all about how trials make you who you are and you wouldn’t be the same strong believer without them. Listen to it. That’s an order!
Broken Beautiful (Ellie Holcomb)
This song has the same theme as “Scars”. How God can take what you’ve done to yourself, what you’ve gone through, and make something beautiful out of it!
Strong enough (Mathew West)
I feel like this ALL the time! Like I’m too busy or tired or weak or sad or sore to be able to continue, like I’m not strong enough. But I don’t have to be strong enough, because I never could do it on my own anyway. There is hope.
Make a Way (I Am They)
This song reminds me that even when it seems impossible that things could ever work out for the better or end up the way God says they will, He Will Make A Way.
Even Then (Micah Tyler)
This was one of my favorite songs from a few years ago. It’s amazing to know that in the trials you’re never alone when Christ is your defense.
Favorite verses
“Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
2 Corinthians 12:8-10
So even though I’m not always strong enough to handle the infirmities and the hardships that life throws at me, God’s strength will be made evident in spite of my weakness.
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7, NKJV
I don’t have to bottle it up inside. I can pour it out to God. He knows what I’m going through. When I’m thankful for all that I already have instead of focusing on what I lack, I’ll have way more peace – the peace that passes ALL understanding! If I ever have that peace, I think that would be really amazing!
Thanks to all you awesome bloggers! (I read more great posts but if I put ’em all on here then there’d be way too many! Just know that, if I’m still following you, I sure appreciate you and the content you produce!)
Aw, my goodness, it was SO much fun to write this post!😂 Lemme know what y’all think … should I do this again? I’ll leave y’all with my customary good-bye …
Yah's Girl 