I Love My Friends!
(and a glimpse of Missions, Mucus, Mischief)

Amidst the craziness of the past week with midterms flying and papers and projects and all things that school throws at you, I've been able to stay above water. I dug myself a pretty deep hole in some areas of school this semester, but when I've needed a hand climbing out, some amazing people have surrounded me in reaching down a hand. It was like swimming or surfing at the beach, when a huge wave unexpectedly grabs you in the spinning of its grip, unsure whether you'll make it out in an okay condition or not. But above all, the Lord has been so faithful in helping me realize the importance of discipline, and resting. Sometimes I never seem to grasp some of His lessons, thankfully He hasn't given up on retreaching them to me. I've also realized that life isn't all about school...but at least right now it's a big portion, so it's been humbling learning to honor that aspect.

But I love my friends, because I have a spectacular roommate. Hanbanan has been so supportive during my craziness these past weeks, in giving up time to help me with my work, bringing me little treats, taking care of me when I've been sick, and just loving me. She's been such an example of a servant's heart and loving people, and I appreciate her more than she knows, she's absolutley fantastic.

I also love my friends, because two of my past roommates, Cassie and Terri, are coming out for a visit this weekend! I'm so stoked to see these two lovely girls, they're both so special and dear to my heart. It will such a blast and a gongshow to connect and hang out again.

Then, just a tad more background to the past few weeks: Mission Fest was in Vancouver at the end of January, and it was amazing. I had the opportunity to connect with some good friends and staff from Capernwray, as well as youth pastors and youth groups from back home. I was just really encouraged and refreshed by the many small conversations I had with people, and getting a glimpse into the work that the Lord is doing here, and near and far. (I'll also post a sweet video of the music group Rescue that we saw there soon...)

Thus, after some busy weeks with little sleep, and busy weekends, sickness overtook me once again and I turned into a mean green mucus machine. Pretty sick I know, my kleenex box turned into my best friend for a few days as I carried it to all of my classes. Then after the Superbowl, I was attacked by a lame flu...not so fun. But I've bascially recovered - sleep does wonders. Hannah quickly went to work disinfecting our whole living area, so we should be germ free for a while - she lovingly gave me the nickname of Typhoid Mary...

Last but not least, the mischief of Dorm 4W. What kind of mischief you ask? Well, a while back, our dorm was pranked as some boys dragged a large tree up four flights of stairs into a hallway. So we 'retaliated' when they least expected it. Overall, the prank was well recieved and fun all around, except for our lame 'mistake'. We foolishly awoke a boy as we were leaving, which caused us to dash off in a wild frenzy, leaving behind two sets of our room/building/food card keys, and our complete list of pranks and who was doing what. We sighed with frustration as we realized what we'd done. So now we're just awaiting the wrath of a dorm ful of boys and the retaliation they will bring. (there will probably be more photos and video footage of this early morning escapade to come...) So life is good, but prayers would be most appreciated through these next two weeks. Discipline, rest, and perseverance will be needed. Agreeing with the well known song of Gloria Gaynor - 'I Will Survive!'

"Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus...Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass." 1 Thess. 5:16-18, 23-24