Tid Bits

Okay...this is going to be a bit of a hodge podge of items:

1. I just got back from a church/small group retreat. It was fantastic. It was the first time that I went to a retreat prepared and expecting to be used by God in other people's lives. That's a bit embarrassing to admit but it's true. Typically, I go to retreats expectant for God to interact in my life - I go in pretty needy, looking for Him to meet me. Or, I've gone knowing that I'd be ministering to others but a bit irritated by that because I was so needy for something from God myself. I do think it's good to desire and expect God to do things in our lives when we need Him to....but, it just has to be realistic and balanced....I'm just typically selfish. But, this time, I really wasn't. I was truly excited to be able to go up to Winter Park with all those folks and minister to them - be it a good conversation or the chance to pray with/for them. To have the Holy Spirit speak through me to them. And, it happened. There were so many instances! And, I'm overjoyed and overwhelmed that Jesus allows me to be a part of the things He's doing in others' lives. I think it may just be one of my favorite things in the world!

2. I donated blood earlier this week. And, while that probably "icks" some people out...I actually really enjoy it. I think I see it as part of my civic duty to humanity or something - especially because I'm a universal donor...my blood type is good for anyone needing blood. But, that's not why I'm telling you this - I'm talking about it because this is the first time that I've ever gotten sick from donating blood. I did great the day I donated....but by the next day (though I had been drinking oodles of water and juice the day I donated) I was severely dehydrated. I went to work for an hour Friday before going home and laying on the couch for the better part of the rest of the day. I was so dehydrated that I had to take the rehydrating slowly....a mouthful of juice every 20 minutes for about four hours. Lots of fun...let me tell you.

3. Finally, and most importantly, this past Wednesday, I got to spend the entire evening with my beloved friend Karlena. She moved to Hawaii a little less than a year ago...and while we've kept in regular contact since she's moved, face-to-face time is always a million times better than a phone call or an email. She and her husband were in town for Brice and Nikki's wedding (see pictures below) and I got to spend much more time with her than I was expecting. All the moments I saw her were great...but Wednesday was dedicated to just us...no wedding responsibilities or commitments, no other people, no other functions...just us. It was so great to really reconnect, spend a long amount of time together, share our hearts and just laugh together. And, it's so awesome to see how she's really where she's supposed to be...to hear all that God's doing and bringing together in her life right now is super exciting and encouraging. And, while I miss interacting on an every-day basis, I know she's where she's supposed to be. It was beyond wonderful to see you, Karlena!!!!!!