3:14

Sweet Victory

2011-03-17T23:24:00.000-07:00

There's no denying that I've gotten into my fair share of trouble this year. First semester was the biggest trial I've been through since coming to Union. Its funny because people think Union is this perfect little community where everyone is a Christian and no one makes mistakes. There are even people I have class with that have that picture of Union. I, however, have seen the other side of this school; the things we try so hard to hide and act like isn't happening because we have to be "strong Christians" because we go to Union. This year I've realized faking it isn't going to help. I can't just hide my flaws and pretend that everything is okay. I've learned I have to be open up and make myself vulnerable. Most of the time I try to hide what's going on and pretend that I, like everyone else here, has it all together. The more I've opened up, the more I've realized these people here are just as human as I am. By becoming completely vulnerable to those close to me I've been able to learn not only a lot about them, but my own self. The relationship I've made this semester are ones that aren't temporary, like most of the people I hung out with last semester. I've made lasting friendships that aren't just skin deep. Instead of hiding everything going on we are able to talk and help each other go through whatever it is causing us to struggle. It wasn't easy letting my guard down and letting people in, but now that I have I'm glad I did and I'm thankful for the friends that took me in. The closest friend I've made this semester started off as a "boyfriend". During the winter break I met Eliot, we hit it off and dated for a week, but who is really counting. Shortly after, we realized we worked better as friends. The last few months he has become someone I can go to for anything. We've had our fair share of arguments and we've been at points where we just want to leave each other and not speak again. Fortunately, we work through our issues with each other and use those experiences to help our relationship grow.

Throughout this semester I've been wrestling a lot with my relationship with God. It hasn't exactly been where it should. Its hard to feel loved and forgiven by God when sometimes its hard to forgive myself. I'm finally coming to the realization that I am forgiven. "There must come a point in our lives where we realize we truly are forgiven. That God loves us no matter what our past is. We are washed by the blood of Christ." Freshmen year of high school my m-fuge leader said that and even though it has stuck with me this long I don't always remember that it includes me.

Opening up has helped me start figuring things out. Letting people in that want to help me grow spiritually has proved to be the biggest blessing of the semester and that in itself is the sweetest victory.

roll, roll me away

2011-01-21T22:19:00.000-08:00

Currently I should be in Searcy, Arkansas worshiping with fellow believers at a Disciple Now. Life is funny sometimes though because today,instead, I was fellowshipping with a different group of people. Instead of rejoicing in the birth of new believers I was mourning in the death of a fellow believer.

Parents never want to bury their child, especially not their youngest. Today's memorial for my uncle Greg was interesting, to say the least, but it was just the way he would have wanted it.

Greg was in the Second Brigade Motorcycle Club. When we pulled up to the funeral home in Dover the street was full of motorcyclists in blue jeans and leather vests. First words out of my mouth were "oh my goodness I saw this on Gangland." As soon as we walked in we stuck out because of what we had on. I warned my dad and brother that they would be mistaken as people who worked at the funeral home. Sure enough, five minutes later a biker man was asking my dad a question about a slide show. It was pretty funny hearing some guys behind whisper, "dude man that is his brother he doesn't work here". Sitting through the memorial service was hard. During the song Roll Me Away by Bob Seger almost every "big bad biker dude" had tears rolling down. I held it together until my grandmother started talking. She started off with a story grandpa wanted to tell but couldn't because he was too sick to come. Then she told a few stories of Greg as a young kid and how outgoing he was. She ended with, "I'm glad my ladies from quilting class didn't come, you guys sure would have scared them". Through all the tears came laughter. After she spoke a few of his "biker brothers" spoke. They all had interesting nicknames and leather vests full of patches.

When the funeral was over the bikers all went out to Greg's house where the were going to burn his colors. The loyalty of his "brothers" was incredible. It was obvious how much they all loved Greg. The scary, bad ass looking bikers were all so kind to us and showed a side that most will never get to see of them. It was humbling to be in the presence of so many men that cared so much about my uncle.

My dad's side of the family is indescribable. My dad's sister, Marviene, and I were talking about how impossible it is to describe our family...especially Greg with his "biker gang" and many tattoos (my favorite being the word "hair" across the top of his head).

In the words of my Aunt, "If a memorial service can be perfect, then my brother's certainly was...the crowd, the stories told, the tears during Roll Me Away, and the laughter at the after party all will go a long way to helping me heal. Except for missing the thunderous sound of bikes roaring down the road, everything was exactly as my brother would have wanted it to be...he is smiling (probably without his teeth, but smiling)"

"We never even said a word

We just walked out and got on that bike
And we rolled
And we rolled clean out of sight"

life as a stud athlete

2010-11-27T22:21:00.000-08:00

Senior year of high school I was dead set on NOT playing soccer in college. I knew I was going to Union and I had no intentions whatsoever to play soccer there. Now, after two years of getting my butt kicked by Union soccer I can't imagine what I'd do without it. It isn't just a sport anymore, it is my family. I have more "sisters" than I could ever ask for. Papa BB and Isaac may kill us in practices and games, but at the end of the day they are so loving and we know we can always go to them. Like every family we have our problems. We may not always see eye to eye, but I can't fathom my college experience without my team.

It isn't always easy juggling school with soccer. We practically live on the road first semester. Sometimes I'm not sure if it is worth it; missing class to travel four hours on a bus. However, when we step out of the locker room onto the field I remember why I love the sport so much. Yes, missing class gets old, but it is indeed worth it. I love the people who get jealous of all the class we get to miss. Reality check: it isn't fun making up everything all the time, nor is copying random people's notes that don't make sense.

Coach often reminds us that we are student athletes. School comes first, then soccer. Likely story. Soccer always comes first.

People say "don't you just love off season, you get to relax", but there is no such thing anymore. Any time out of regular season is spent in the weight room or on the ball. Always striving to get faster, stronger, better. There is always something that can be done to make us better players. Six AM fitness, afternoon weight training, inner team scrimmages.

After a frustrating day of classes nothing is better than taking it out on the field. Or just vent to other teammates about frustrations. Practices serve as more than just a time to get better. We like to catch up or help each other out by listening.

Hard practices, few chances to go home, frustrating, time consuming, overwhelming, but worth it. I wouldn't have it any other way.

Mountain of God

2010-05-30T22:48:00.000-07:00

At the end of the semester a good friend of mine made me two CDs. I had only listened to one of them, tonight on my way home from my best friend's house I popped the second one in. The first song was Mountain of God. The drive home was probably the most peaceful I've been in weeks. I've been so uptight since finals week. This song made me realize I need to calm down and quit trying to do everything on my own. I don't have to do everything on my own and that's the greatest feeling in the world. I'm excited for what's to come. Life is finally starting to slow down and make sense. I'm finally realizing that I need to relax. Thanks to the simplicity of this song I've realized that I just need to open my eyes and heart.

Thought that I was all alone
Broken and afraid
But You were there with me
Yes, You were there with me
And I didn't even know
That I had lost my way
But You were there with me
Yes, You were there with me
'Til You opened up my eyes
I never knew
That I couldn't ever make it
Without You
Even though the journey's long
And I know the road is hard
Well, the One who's gone before me
He will help me carry on
After all that I've been through
Now I realize the truth
That I must go through the valley
To stand upon the mountain of God
As I travel on the road
That You have lead me down
You are here with me
Yes, You are here with me
I have need for nothing more
Oh, now that I have found
That You are here with me
Yes, You are here with me
I confess from time to time
I lose my way
But You are always there
To bring me back again
Sometimes I think of where it is I've come from
And the things I've left behind
But of all I've had, what I possessed
Nothing can quite compare
With what's in front of me
With what's in front of me

freshman 15

2010-05-15T15:45:00.000-07:00

Freshman year of college is over and it flew by! No I didn't gain the dreaded "freshman 15". This post is to list the most important fifteen things I learned my first year away from home.

Meet new people and value close friendships. Don't let the fear of "not fitting in" cause you to miss out on some of the most amazing friendships you will find.
Setting multiple alarms is vital in order to make it to 6 AM practice on time.
Pulling all nighters only works if you actually study.
Don't be too sensitive. It will only bring you down and lead to entirely too much stress.
Finding a church is important. Don't wait until the last few weeks of school to finally decide where to go.
People are human, humans make mistakes. Pray, forgive, love unconditionally.
Umpires are always right. Check the box score.
Fighting is stupid and pointless. Love is not a fight.
Core classes are pretty boring, but classes for your major are great, and if you don't think so...you've chosen the wrong major.
Have no regrets. Do everything without holding back. Don't let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.
Don't let society's definition of attraction and beauty bring you down. Self-confidence will take you further than make up and expensive clothes.
Life is precious. Value it. Respect it.
Don't try to be perfect, in the end you'll become someone you're not, and lose people that mean the world to you.
Stay close to your friends at home, don't shut them out just because of distance. In the end they will be the ones always there for you.
Value relationships. Show respect. Hold nothing back. Don't try too hard. Just be yourself.

This year has been one crazy time. Living on my own for the first time has proven to be challenging but rewarding. The memories made this year will last forever. I've learned so much more than what's listed above, I just find those to be the most important.

CLV, Jordan, and NYC

2010-04-25T23:57:00.001-07:00

School is almost over and I cannot wait to get out of Jackson for a while. In 23 days I will be back in the comfort of my home with my amazing family and sweet little dog. I remember last year at this time I was counting down the days until graduation and even to when I was moving to Jackson. I was ecstatic to get out of Clarksville and start life on my own. Little did I know a year later I'd be yearning to be back in the comfort and routine of home. I find myself calling Jackson home. I've always heard "home is where your heart is" and well my physical heart is obviously here in Jackson, but my heart is in Clarksville with my family and best friends. Living in this little box has started to take its toll on me. I cannot wait to be home and start traveling with my mom. We have some pretty sweet trips lined up for this summer and I'm excited to get started on them.

In 41 days I will be in Richmond, Virginia. I absolutely cannot wait to be there. Not only do I get to hit up Myrtle Beach with my mom after we leave Richmond, but while there I get to spend three days with my wonderful boyfriend. I have always loved baseball. My goal is to go to every major league stadium, but lately I've found that my heart just isn't in it anymore. It has to do with the fact that baseball has taken Jordan away until October. Its crazy how much you can miss someone who has only been in your life for six months. I often find myself thinking about him and the fun we had before he left for baseball. The phone can only go so far, I can't wait to actually see his facial expressions when he tells me to "lock it up" or "the room shakes when you laugh". Its the little things that I miss the most like his cologne, the looks he gives me when I'm doing something retarded, and his horrible farmers tan. I am extremely thankful that I have an awesome mom who is taking me to see him twice this summer, without those trips I would have to go a whole five months without seeing those gorgeous brown eyes of his.

In 60 days I will step off a plane with other students into the biggest city in the U.S. Last summer I fell in love with New York. Not the city itself, but rather the people. The stereotype that northerns are rude could not be anymore skewed. Don' get me wrong last summer I had my fair share of run ins with rude people, but I really do believe I had more run ins with some of the nicest people I've ever met. City Uprising was definitely a hard week, but in the end I came out feeling so blessed. I fell in love with New York and cannot wait to be back again to share the gospel and get information about AIDS out there to the lost and hurting inhabitants of NYC.

I have tons more countdowns on my calendar, but at this point in time those are the most important. I basically have a full summer of traveling planned. My mom and I are going to rock out in the Mazda and hit up cities we've never been to, Braves games, a few AA games to see my man umpire, the beach, an MLS game and of course every mall we pass.

hello love

2010-03-09T08:46:00.000-08:00

What I've learned thus far:

Guys should never wear daisy dukes in public.

I hate yogurt, mainly the texture.

I only know two people who can pull of navy blue and black. I am one.

Guys do in fact care about their expensive shoes.

UT will never be superior to Alabama.

Peyton Manning and Chipper Jones are my obsessions.

Cats don't like bells around their necks.

You don't just "accidentally lift up your shirt"

PDA is entertaining.

Mr. AA looks good in blue.

Love is not a fight.

Sushi, bowling, and crying don't mix well; thank goodness for ginger ale.

Men In Black came out in 1997.

Love Elizabeth

memory in a song

2010-01-23T22:55:00.001-08:00

Struggling with sleep. Staring at the wall. Listening to music. Every song has a meaning, holds a memory. Some good, some bad. Some too sad to even finish the song. Some so happy that it must be listened to again.

Life After You by Daughtry - December 23, 2o09. I went to dinner with Jordan's family on the General Jackson. When we got home we were in his room talking and this song was the only one on the recently added play list. I'm pretty sure we listened to it twenty some odd times. I fell in love with it and downloaded it that night, its now number five on my top played.

For Good from the musical Wicked - I fell in love with this song junior year in London when we saw the play Wicked. I listened to it a lot after I got home but then pretty much forgot about it until it was sang at a friend's funeral in October. As much as I use to love this song it is now hard to listen to without wanting to cry.

Big Girls Don't Cry by Fergie - Brasil mission trip. We listened to this song every morning. I can't hear this song and not go back to that hill with those amazing kids. It may sound weird but this song makes me think of God's glory and what he did that week in my heart and the heart of those kids.

Take My Hand by Shawn McDonald - Dancing and singing in the locker room with girls who are now my best friends but were complete strangers a few months ago. This song will always be one of my first memories of the Union soccer team.

Midnight Train to Georgia by Gladys Knight - One of my all time favorite songs. I have no clue why. When I hear it I always think of Luci and Krista. In the summer we would put Luci's top down and crank this song, singing at the top of our lungs not caring who was around.

Gracie by Ben Folds - Anything really by Ben Folds reminds me of Kathleen and junior year. Team awesome in the back of Mrs. Tabb's class. Junior year had to be the best year of my life.

Wagon Wheel by Old Crow Medicine Show - We listened to this song a thousand times on the way home from WKU soccer camp the summer before senior year. Krista, Anna, Layne, and I jammed to this song for months. Not to mention Lolo dancing to it while driving us home.

Little Drummer Boy by Lonestar - Junior year yearbook. I would sneak into Mrs. E's room and put it on repeat to see how long it took before she noticed. Once again junior year was amazing. At least Amber and Jenna shared my love for the song, or at least humored me and listened to it.

Stop This Train by John Mayer - The night before I moved to Jackson. I was DJ and was dedicating random songs to everyone in the car. Well Nathaniel dedicated this one to me. Sappy as it sounds its hard for me to listen to this and not tear up. Its the last memory of our innocent days before splitting up across the country.

Falling In Love At A Coffee Shop by Landon Pigg - Heard it on a Hallmark commercial the day I left before London junior year. Sent it to Daniel and told him this was us. I can't really listen to the song anymore. Not because I miss Daniel, but just because it was "our song" and I feel bad for listening to it considering we aren't really friends anymore.

Man in the Mirror by Michael Jackson - I'm sure my close friends at Union have the same memory of this song. When Jordan and I first started talking this was his ringtone and text sound. Needless to say this song went off probably a hundred times a day and I thought they were going to kill me. It is no longer his ringtone, but I can't help but smile and think of him anytime I hear it.

Those just happen to be the songs that have come on while posting this. I could go through my whole iTunes and share more than one memory for all 1259 songs. Its crazy to think about all the memories I've made and how many more are still to come. I love thinking about what's in store for the rest of my life!

random thoughts formed by sleep deprivation

2009-12-27T23:11:00.000-08:00

For some reason I can't sleep. I need to because I have to be up in less than four hours, but for some odd reason my body won't let me. I guess since sleep won't come I will take this opportunity to share thoughts I've had lately.

Clarksville has been my home for 18 years, but recently it doesn't feel that way. When I'm here I long to be back in Jackson. I consider Ayers 1 room 208 to be my home and the Lady Bulldog soccer team to be my family. Don't get me wrong I love my family here and enjoy every bit of time I spend with my mother and father, but love my Jackson family and miss them.

I adore the simple things in life such as the small gnome I received from my mother, Jordan's Gucci shoes he wears when he wants to "dress up" for me, my brother trying to beat my high scores on anything I attempt, and my dad working out with me. To most these things seem minute, but to me it is so much more. These simple gestures show love. It is the little things in life lately that seem to mean so much to me.

I've recently found myself listening to classic rock music. I've always listened to the genre but not really enjoyed it. I have found myself only listening to Jim Croce, Cat Stevens, Eric Clapton, Edwin McCain, and Jackson Browne while I'm working out. Don't be mistaken though, I am still in love with John Mayer, Ben Folds, and Jack Johnson.

My family is the bomb. Since I've been home I've enjoyed spending time with my family just sitting around laughing about the silliest stuff. My family and I have so much in common, naturally. I love being able to relate with them and talk about the most random stuff.

After recent situations and the Myers Briggs test I have found out that I am very introverted. It may be hard for some to believe because of my outgoing personality once I get to know people. I however keep to myself mostly and enjoy spending many hours alone. I love hanging out with my friends but after a while I just need time alone to recharge and think.

Lastly, I've started to get away from trying to be such a people pleaser. I have always tried to do anything possible to make sure everyone around me is happy and have always cared way too much what people think of me. Recently, however, I've realized I don't need the world's approval. Thanks to Jordan I've had to realize I can be myself and still make people happy without worrying how I look or what the person across the room thinks about me. I knew I would have to deal with what people had to say when we started dating, and at first it really got to me, but now I realize it really doesn't matter as long as I'm happy.

God is in control

2009-12-18T21:49:00.000-08:00

After being home from Union for a week I've decided that God was totally in control in my choice of college and I am so glad I let Him lead the way. Since being home I've talked to many of my friends who are away at school. We've all entertained each other with stories from our first semester of schooling. I've heard stories from UT, Alabama, Auburn, Belmont, Austin Peay, and Samford. I must say my friends are crazy and I love listening about how they spent their first semesters, but those adventures weren't for me.

I have loved almost every minute spent at Union and wouldn't change it for the world. No, I don't have any crazy party stories or SEC football game tales, but I still have had fun. I believe the atmosphere in which I have been placed in is perfect for me and my personality. At school I have become best friends with some of the most amazing people and am so thankful God has put them in my life. Being surrounded by people with the same aspirations and lifestyles as mine has really helped me see who I am.

My fun stories from first semester involve staying up til 3 am with my roommates talking about our lives and our futures, writing papers with each other about our worldview and what God is doing in our lives and world, and the infamous McDonald's runs. When we aren't engaged in deep conversations or doing homework together we do manage to create our own fun. Shopping carts, dancing to old music, singing obnoxiously, movies (love actually), halo, madden, and of course dutch blitz.

It has been a crazy semester learning about new people, but I feel I've learned even more about myself. I am thankful God brought me to Union and I cannot wait to see what He has in store for my life throughout the next three and half years. It is going to be a crazy ride, but I know He is control and will equip me for whatever comes my way.

farewell soccer

2009-10-31T01:15:00.000-07:00

Monday was the last game of our soccer season. Even if it wasn't the last game of our season it was the last to mine. In the first ten minutes I managed to get hurt and end my season early. Mind you it wasn't ended games early, but it was ended 70 minutes early, and for me that was the worst 70 minutes of my life. Not only was I in intense pain, but I had to sit on the sidelines and watch as we got beat.

After being on crutches and in an immobilizer for a few days we found out that my MCL wasn't torn it was just strained (thank goodness). I may have been on crutches for only a few days but it was the worst. It pretty much monsooned the whole time and I slipped quite a few times. I am now able to walk on my own, well I guess you could call it a walk...let's just say I have a sweet swagger right now.

I never thought I'd say this, but I cannot wait to be able to run again. It is killing me to have to walk, and walk slowly for that matter. I'm a hyper active person and laying around is not my thing.

Besides soccer being over I absolutely love Union. I've made some of the most wonderful friends. We stay up entirely too late going to McDonald's and then talking for hours about our lives. I've loved getting to know my roommates and some of the other girls on the soccer team. Its reassuring knowing that you have friends with the same goals and aspirations. I love the fact that the friends I've made here are on the same page as I am. Our hearts are in the same place. We are here not just to play soccer, but to further our relationship with God and to share is love throughout the world.

Now that soccer is over for a while we have time to work together. I'm excited to spend time with my close girl friends in the Word of God and plan how we can reach people. We have already started here in Jackson by being a part of Mission Jackson and Operation Christmas Child. As the year goes on I can't wait to see what mission opportunities God gives us. From reading to kids at Pope Elementary to going overseas I love spending time with people and sharing how Awesome our God is.

Elizabeth
3:14

bittersweet reunion

2009-10-01T21:11:00.000-07:00

Today was one of those days I wish I could have fallen asleep, woken up and realized everything that happened was a dream. Sadly though it wasn't a dream, but the harsh reality of growing up.

I woke up to quite a few text messages this morning. Nothing out of the ordinary considering I sleep late and always have people texting me. However when I saw one from my dad I knew it couldn't be good. I just saw him yesterday and I was pretty sure we had talked about everything that needed to be talked about. When I read his message my heart stopped. I continued through my messages only to find more with the same news. I turned on my computer only to find the same messages on my skype.

This morning Kathleen Beach, a friend since pre-school was killed in a horrible car accident on her way to crew practice. At first it didn't hit, I didn't know what to feel. I went to class and came back to my room. Once in my room a wave of emotions came over me. A lifetime of memories came flooding into my thoughts. Pre-school graduation swaying to I believe I can fly, birthday parties at the winery, Mr. Brown, junior year in general, good ole Tabb's class, senior camp out, ditching me in Mang's and Black's class senior year, Ben Folds and John Mayer, and of course the infamous COW TOWN USA. It all hit at once. It seems like just yesterday Kathleen, Lauren, Jennifer and I were sitting together holding hands crying at Caleb's funeral. It just seems so....so unreal.

This weekend my friends and I will all be together once again, the first time in months, but it won't be the same. I'm excited to see everyone this weekend. However, the reason for this reunion is bittersweet. I'm sure this weekend will be full of tears and laughter about all the good times. We all loved Kathleen, her outgoing personality captivated so many people. Rest in peace Kathleen, we love you.

Elizabeth
3:14

one down

2009-08-30T10:37:00.000-07:00

The past week was an emotional roller coaster. A situation on the soccer team caused us to be torn a part. After three days of tears and disappointments everything was finally settled and our team was able to settle down and come together again. As a team we felt Satan was trying to bring us down by tearing us apart. By the end of the week we had gone through so much that we were emotionally drained.

However, I did have a great first week of classes. Most of my classes don't seem like they are going to be too hard. Apparently I got the best Old Testament teacher, which is rather exciting because after talking to him, I am excited to be in his class. My math teacher is pretty soft spoken. Math is going to be my hardest class just because I don't remember much algebra from eighth grade. My World Civ teacher is by far the best professor on campus and everyone loves him. First aid should be easy. It is basically taught on an eighth grade level, so by the end of the semester I will be certified in first aid and can save lives!

I still haven't found a church home, and its becoming disheartening. I miss Bro. Roger and everyone at FBC CLV. I miss home in general, but my mom came to visit this weekend so that helped. However, I miss my little dog and Daniel a lot as well. Daniel sent me a package in the mail the other day that brightened my mood.

As the weekend comes to an end and I finish my last bit of homework, I can't help but get excited for the upcoming week. We have an away game on Tuesday in Mississippi which is exciting, and then next weekend is Labor Day weekend. If everything works out I'll get to go home!

Elizabeth
3:14

weekend in Chicago

2009-08-23T23:26:00.000-07:00

On Thursday morning our soccer team headed up to Chicago, Illinois for a fun filled weekend of soccer and visiting the "windy city". The eight hour bus ride to Chicago wasn't too long at all. I slept most of the way, and for the last few hours played spades. I actually woke up to Samantha standing over my seat waiting for me to wake up so she could ask me to come play. I played more spades this weekend than ever before, but I'm not complaining, it was fun and passed the time.

Once we got to Chicago we checked in to our hotel and went for a jog around the hotel to loosen up our muscles and get us ready for the upcoming games. For dinner we got to experience the infamous Chicago deep dish pizza. I didn't think I would be a fan, but I loved it. I know Chicago is called the windy city, and I expected it to be windy, but it was freezing! I didn't have enough clothes. We froze to death at the games, it was crazy!

The next two days both varsity and junior varsity had two games each. Junior varsity, which is me, played at eleven both mornings and won both of our games. Varsity played in the evenings. They lost their first game in overtime and won their second in overtime, both were very close games.

The best part of the trip, however, was the bonding we got to do. I became a lot closer to some of the girls on the team. We got to spend many hours together on the bus when we went to and from the fields that were an hour away from our hotel and then to and from Chicago. We played many games of spades, sang songs, and laughed hysterically. On Sunday we went to Harvest Bible Chapel. It was a different worship experience, but I actually enjoyed it. After that we got to go spend a little over an hour in downtown Chicago. My small group headed to the John Hancock building because it was the only one we knew how to get to. I was able to call Nathaniel and got to spend sometime with him there. It was great seeing a familiar face from home, even though it wasn't actually the CLV.

Seeing him made me realize how much I took for granted the relationship I had with my friends. Even though it made me happy to see him, it was also sad knowing that school is starting this week and we really won't be seeing each other anymore for a while. Not just him, but Krista, Luci, Lauren, Ashley, Taylor, and Johnnie. We are all so far apart from each other now!

Classes start Tuesday. That itself is pretty exciting. It was a bummer coming back to campus and there being so many people here, but since class is starting I guess naturally people have to be here now. I'm nervous and excited for the upcoming week, and can't wait to get through this first semester! I figure once I get through the first semester I'll get the swing of things and do better in the next semesters.

Elizabeth
3:14

its been one week...

2009-08-13T20:30:00.000-07:00

Today marks one whole week at Union University. This past week has been a roller coaster full of emotions. The first two or so days here I hated it. I thought I was too shy to meet people, and basically didn't talk to anyone. However, now I love it and have made so many new friends.

The girls on the soccer team were so open and welcome to all of us freshmen. Instead of feeling like an outsider they brought us in and let us become part of their so called "family." Its been a great week of learning about each other and bonding as a unit. From encouraging each other on the soccer field to screaming at the TV while playing Super Mario on Nintendo we've all become closer in the last seven days.

The pain my body has been in, however is not a highlight of my week here. I've never been in so much pain. From my toes all the way to my neck everything is sore or bruised. We've had three-a-days, which start at six in the morning. We start with an hour of fitness at six, then from eight-thirty to eleven we play soccer, from eleven to noon we swim, then we get a nice break, and play again from six-thirty to around nine. Altogether its about seven hours of intense working out. No wonder my body is in so much pain.

Besides the pain, I love this experience. As preseason nears the end, I'm getting excited for our first game. We play Wednesday, and then travel to Chicago next weekend to play. This past week has been full of laughs and tears, but I will cherish my first week at Union and look forward to my next four years here.

stop this train

2009-08-05T21:46:00.000-07:00

Today was my last day in the CLV for a while. It was a roller coaster of emotions, but ended up being one of the best days of my summer. It started off with the usual working out. A group of us from church went to Ci Ci's for lunch. The nine of us together conquered over 100 slices of pizza, needless to say I was sick before I even got home. Still though, it was a highlight of my day.

The rest of the day was devoted to packing everything imaginable for school. While packing I listened to my itunes library on my computer. I love putting it on shuffle! You never know what's going to play. While packing a song came on that I hadn't heard in a while, and caused me to end up just laying in the floor taking it in. The song is called "Never Alone" by Jim Brickman, its a great song, I think its about a man and woman and not being alone ever, but as I was listening to it I was thinking about no matter where I go God will be there. Wherever I end up He will be there. It was pretty comforting in this time of being nervous about leaving.

After packing I went to church and hung out with some amazing kids and said goodbye to all my girls from camp. Even when I come home not all of them will be here still. Samantha is moving in a few weeks for Texas, not only was she one of my lovely 8th grade girls at camp, but she has been my neighbor for the past year. I love that girl and am going to miss her dearly when she leaves.

The most important part of my day was hanging out with my friends for the last time. We went out to some random place Luci knew and took pictures. At first I was apprehensive of marching off into the woods with no flashlight in the dark. It took a lot of persuasion to get Nathaniel and I to go on into the woods. In the end I was so glad we did. It was beautiful. Even thought it was dark and I couldn't see the waterfall, just by using other senses I could tell there was beauty around. The moon was full and bright and cast a glow across the bridge. You could hear the waterfall and it just made a beautiful setting for us to hang out.

Lastly, Nathaniel:
You are my oldest friend. We've known each other since preschool, and boy have we gone through it all! I'm going to miss not getting to eat lunch with you everyday. You and I have been through almost everything. From the nursery at church, to people thinking we were twins, to liking each other in middle school but never wanting to admit it! I'm going to miss you when you leave for Chicago, but I know one day you are going to be an AMAZING preacher and that is exciting! I could go own for miles about middle school PASS and high school stories, but you know them all anyway. Every time I hear The Fray I will think of you! Have fun, I love you like a brother, always have and always will!

reality

2009-07-26T20:42:00.000-07:00

This weekend was my last weekend in the CLV. As crazy as it seems I leave for school in less than two weeks. This weekend I finally grasped the concept that I really am moving soon. In Sunday School today we were all talking about leaving, and the reality is, we are all terrified. Thank goodness Trent had a pretty sweet lesson lined up for us because he was hoping we would say we were scared.

My last weekend here was pretty fun, I have to admit. I may not have gotten to go camping with my friends like I wanted to, but I still had a packed weekend full of fun. We had a soccer tournament here in town, which enabled me to camp. We didn't do as well this tournament, but its not a big deal because next week in Ohio we are going to bring it.

Growing up in church I've always heard the phrase come as you are...and I've always believed it, until today. I had a soccer game this morning and when it was over i went straight to church. All I had time to do was throw on a non-sweaty shirt and some tennis shoes. So much for come as you are, I got more rude comments and awful looks. Its funny that girls wear short skirts and tube tops to church but hardly get noticed, and I come in my soccer get-up and get some pretty nasty remarks. The people of FBC CLV weren't very open-minded today, it was pretty disheartening to spend my last Sunday here for a while like that.

However, other than that my weekend was great. The grand parents came in to "see me off". They took us to Mexican, which is of course my favorite. We hung out today and did the whole family scene. Then later Daniel and I went to Harry Potter! The second time was even better than the first!

Last night I wrote out a list of things I want to accomplish this coming school year:

-stay away from the freshman 15, I can't afford to gain that much weight
-keep my grades relatively high and still maintain a social life
-learn to dance! ( any of you that have been around Luci and I when there is music playing know that both of us love to attempt to dance, but just can't. so this year I am going to learn to rock it. I'm actually watching step up 2 as I write this.)
-stay in church even if it takes a while to find the right one for me
-call my home at least once every week to let them in on my life
-stay in touch with my friends from home. ( hannah, luci, krista, lauren, the whole gang)
-continue to strive for a closer relationship with the Lord

Eleven days until I leave, but subtract three because I'll be in Ohio. Its hard to fit in everything I want in the next eight days, but I'm going to try because I have to see everyone before I'm off to Union to play some soccer.

Elizabeth
3:14

18 is the magic number

2009-07-19T11:47:00.000-07:00

The countdown begins! There are 18 days until I embark on one of the biggest journeys in life. August 6th I move into Ayers 1 at Union University. It is quite a bittersweet moment thinking about it. In a few short weeks I will be waking up in a strange room in a different city with people I hardly know. This past weekend I've been sick and had plenty of time just to sit and think alone, and WOW have I been thinking a lot.

Basically its time to start a whole new life. Recently I've lost my best friend/boyfriend of almost two years, but who knows, maybe it was just time to leave each other. I've realized you don't need a boy to make your life complete, so in a way this could be a good thing, I'm just not seeing that yet.

I've also noticed that I seem to be more patient than usual. I've started to slow down and actually see whats going on around me. I actually caught myself going under the speed limit the other day because I was just engulfed in my surroundings. If you were driving behind me you probably would have thought I was from out of town. I just seemed to be seeing everything in a new way. Not just in driving have I become more patient. I have really enjoyed slowing down the pace of my hectic life and taking in things I've always known, just in a different way.

This summer I read Redeeming Love, again for about the fourth or fifth time. I believe, however, every time I read it I learn something new. This past reading of it has shown me that I am obsessed with the word "beloved" I'm not sure why. Beloved is used all through the book and I basically fell in love with it, because for one I would love to have a husband like the main character in the book, and since he uses the word beloved a lot I'm guessing that's why I love the word.

As my summer is coming to an end I realize that this was probably the most packed summer I have ever had, but I have loved every second of it. I have met some pretty amazing people and grown closer to some friends that have touched me in different ways. From the 9 eighth grade girls that touched my life at Hillmont, to Maria my leader in New York and the random strangers I met on the streets there, to the hilarious people I met at YoungLife camp. Not only have I met new people, but grown closer to random people I never really thought I would hang out with. Every person I've come into contact with this summer has made and impact somehow on my life even if they don't realize it.

I'm excited and scared for the upcoming days. Its going to be a real struggle to change life as I know it and become an independent college kid. I know it won't be that bad, its just the pure thought of living on my own that terrifies me! And so the countdown continues...

Elizabeth
3:14

i know i still make mistakes, but You have new mercy for me everyday...

2009-07-16T21:22:00.000-07:00

In the past week since I've been home I feel like I have learned more than I ever imagined learning in one week.

As soon as I got home from hillmont I found myself headed to Louisville for a 3v3 soccer tournament. There I learned that it is very possible to go to a tournament with only three girls, two fans, and no coach and still come out on top. Cassandra, Crystal, and I persevered through the heat and no substitutes to win the tournament. Also while there I learned that I hate having gross teeth and that those new colgate wisps are life savers.

In the last week I helped install a dishwasher. For starters I have no clue what any type of tool is called, which made for a difficult time. I was, what dad liked to call me, the plumbers assistant. Every time he asked for a tool it took me about three tries. However, I do believe now if you asked me for a wrench, any type of screw driver, or a nut I could find it. Installing the dishwasher was fun. We had to take a few extra trips to Lowes, but it was worth it because now we have a new dishwasher that works great!

Staying on the dad topic, I have a totally new respect of him. Since I've been home I have had to start back training for soccer. This time my dad has been coaching me in my running and some of my lifting. I don't know how he does it. He has done two Ironmans and is about to do a third one next June. For those that do not know what an Ironman consists of, it is: A 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride, and 26.2 mile run. All together that is 140.6 miles to be completed all in one day. I can't even imagine the pain your body must go through in order to finish! My dad and all his friends love it and train consistently for such races..most aren't as long. I however almost died when my dad made me run two miles and do sprints the other day. After running I came home and got on the stationary bike for about fifteen minutes before I was ready to pass out. I really earned a lot of respect for dad and all his friends, its hard to do what they do and I've never really even thought about it that way.

I've learned my clothing style has somewhat change. Wearing skirts are by far way more comfortable and I could wear them for the rest of my life. I'm all about comfort these days. A v-neck T, cotton skirt, and flip flops can go just about anywhere.

I am a huge nerd that loves to read. I play video games a lot more than you would think. I dressed up as Harry Potter for the midnight premier of Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. I'm decided to embrace being a nerd and have fun with it. I've learned you have to be yourself, and if that involves being different, then go for it.

Living in an attitude of worship is hard to do. Practically all summer I've been doing something that involved church and worship. Younglife camp, working Bible school, New York mission trip, and staffing Hillmont. This past week has been a test of all that I've learned and been through this summer. I've learned it takes more than just listening to worship music and praying. It takes actions and words to really proclaim what God is doing in my life. My actions show others my "inner man" ( Hillmont word!) and that inner man needs to stay clean by what I listen to, watch, and do.

Romans 12:2
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is- His good, pleasing, and perfect will. (NIV)

God is good...All the time!

2009-07-02T20:18:00.000-07:00

I know it is the middle of the summer and my last blog was during the school year, but I have been so busy I haven't found the time to update. Here goes. The whole summer, as I can remember!

A few days after graduation we had Hillmont training. We spent the weekend in Linden to connect with God and each other. Training was the first of many new activities I would attempt. We did a ropes course, and mind you, I am terrified of heights. I did it though. I was able to trust fall from eight feet off the ground and trust the other staffers would catch me, and I also was hoisted over a huge wall. Training was fun, I participated in my first ever phatdipping and learned a lot about myself and God.

After training I went to Windy Gap in North Carolina for YoungLife camp. Once again I was tested in things I never imagined doing. I did a high rope course. It was intense, but I conquered my fear of heights and completed it. We also went horse back riding, which I have never done before. I fell in love with my horse named Madonna. YoungLife wasn't all fun and games, I was really able to search my heart and learn more about our awesome God. I loved every minute of camp.

The biggest part of summer so far has been my mission trip to New York, which I just got back from a few hours ago. The trip was amazing and truly tested me. I had to step out of my comfort zone. The first two days in NY we were total tourists and saw everything imaginable and wandered around all of NY. On Sunday we had our own worship on a rock in Central Park. Talk about awesome. Whats greater than worshiping God in a park on a beautiful day. Sunday night was the kick off to City Uprising. Aaron Coe is a great preacher and Paul Ramey rocked it out. Throughout the week my group, the Green Manhattans, did different projects. Our leader was Maria, and she was hands down the best leader ever! On Monday we worked at Housing Works and helped ship books and do inventory for them. Housing Works is a very cool program that helps in HIV awareness. That afternoon we participated in the art carts. That was interesting! We asked random people in a park their age and had them draw a picture in however many seconds their age was. It was a whole lot of fun interacting with them. Tuesday we handed out HIV awareness cards in the Upper East Side and the South Bronx. Working in the UES was hard and really put me in a down mood. No one wanted to hear what we had to say nor did they care about HIV awareness. However our spirits were lifted in the South Bronx, where the people were very friendly and willing to listen to us and what we had to say. Wednesday we worked at the Salt art gallery. Drew and I walked to Home Depot to get materials they needed to help with the gallery. That was a trip in itself.

New York as a whole was a very eye opening experience. Being in a city for the first time is never easy, especially when the city as over 8 million people living in it! Every night we had worship, where I got to hear Freddy T again! It felt like old times in Doxa.
This summer so far has been the best ever. I have stepped out of my comfort zone more than I ever thought I would. I've learned God is always in control and when you truly let him take over, you are willing to step out more. Hillmont is in two days and I cannot wait to see what God has in store for us. I know it is going to be amazing. God is good! All the Time!

Elizabeth
3:14

here's a toast to all those who hear me all too well

2009-04-25T13:58:00.000-07:00

The past two days have been rather exciting leading up to tonight. I spent over five hours decorating the the University Center ballroom yesterday with some of my closet friends, and the few not so friends I have obtained through the years. It was a bittersweet moment walking out of the ballroom last night. All our hard work paid off and the room looked great, but it also meant it is nearing the end of my high school career.

Today has had the same feelings. I have spent majority of the day getting ready for prom. I've been to two proms already but never felt like I do now, because this one is it. MY senior prom has finally arrived. Its exciting to think in a few hours I am going to be dancing the night away with my best friends.

SRO Deloach told us this would be one of the most anticlimactic nights of our lives. In a way he may be right, but I'm not so sure. This is one of the last times the WHOLE senior class will be together. In a few years we may all look back and think how silly it was for us to get this excited about prom, but as for right now I am stoked!

We have less than a month to graduation. Its crazy to think that four years have gone by since I walked through the doors of Rossview High. It seems like just yesterday. I have spent these four years with the most amazing kids in the world. We have all grown together even more so this year, and its almost time to say our goodbyes.

Its going to be tough saying bye to some of my friends I have been with since pre-school. We have always been there for each other, and next year I won't be able to wake up drive to school and see their smiling faces.

Oh how things are about to change, but I am ready for the ride. Bring it on!

My Story

2009-03-25T19:34:00.000-07:00

Before

I have lived in Clarksville my whole life. I grew up going to church weekly. I went every Sunday, every Wednesday, and attended any other event we had. Having been going to church my whole life, I knew many Bible stories and always had the "church" answer in Sunday School. My family has been a great asset to my life. I have wonderful parents and a big brother that would do anything for me. Life was good. I had everything I needed, so I thought.

How

As hard as it is to admit it, I looked up to my brother starting at a young age. Though we didn't get along all the time I still wanted to be like him. At the age of eight I remember asking my mom about accepting Christ, my brother had done it and I felt it was now my turn. She sat me down on the couch of our living room with a small Bible. It may have been just the New Testament. I can't remember. I do remember going down the Romans Road with her and learning about God's love for me and how he died on the cross for my sins and by accepting Him I would be saved. The next Sunday my mother and I walked down the aisle of the old orange sanctuary. That day I asked God into my life to save me and walk with me through the rest of my life.

Since

As I have grown older physically I have continued to also grow spiritually. I use the Bible not just for its amazing stories, but as a how to guide for life. I of course still sin because that is the nature of every human. I however strive every day to be more Christ like. I've learned that when I fall short of God's glory I can go to Him and will pick me up and guide me. This year as proved to be one of the biggest struggles yet, with so many choices to make about my future. I have looked to God in all of them and I know He is taking me where I need to be. Everyday he shows me new things that awe me. I say awe because God is truly the only AWESOME thing in life, He is the only one worthy of AWE.

Elizabeth
3:14

three soccer games, two hours with doctors, and one hurt foot later

2009-03-01T19:03:00.000-08:00

I am aware that this blog is a week late, but this stupid computer has been acting funny and I have just stayed away from it. Last weekend and this past week were rather exciting but awful in their own ways.

The title of this blog makes it sound like I had a rough weekend. In all actuality, I did. In the first twenty or so minutes of our first soccer game I managed to get kicked extremely hard in my RIGHT foot. I stress right foot because I am a right footed player, which means I use it a whole lot more often that I use my useless left foot. I continued to play the rest of the weekend, but winced every time I kicked the ball and ended up having to be pulled in the last game because the pain was unbearable.

The worst part of playing like a five year old was that the Union coach was there. How embarrassing. I was able to talk to him and explain what happened. It still was a real bummer to let my team down though. Because the fact of the matter is we lost horribly bad.

Next weekend we are playing in Auburn. I can't stand the fact that my stupid foot will still probably enable me to play. I am however, going down to support the team, and maybe just maybe my foot will be able to hold up for a few games. I know its need to rest to get better, but I am such a stubborn person.

When the word stubborn is brought up around Christians they seem to get tense and say God calls stubborn people heathens (Acts 7:51). I however don't look at it this way. Yes I can be extremely stubborn at times, but when I think of stubborn I think of Jonah. If you want to talk about stubborn that's the man. To try to hide from God? I mean lets be serious Jonah. After being swallowed by a big fish and spit out alive Jonah got a SECOND CHANCE from God. He didn't argue this time and went to Nineveh. Even though he was skeptical of the people there he was wrong, they believed him and believed God.

So being stubborn isn't all that bad in the end. Yes it can get you eaten by a big fish, but God's love is universal. He loves us even when we don't follow the right path at first, but if we keep are eyes focused on Him he will guide us in the right direction and protect us every step of the way.

I know going from soccer to Jonah is a stretch. But sometimes rambling helps me. And in reality it all comes down to being stubborn, which I am.

Elizabeth
3:14

from Memphis

2009-02-20T20:47:00.000-08:00

Today after school I jumped in my little red sports car with my mom and headed to the great city of Memphis, Tennessee. Its a simple drive, a straight shot, but some crazy curvy roads. I didn't think much of the drive. I've done it quite a few times in my life considering one out of every four soccer tournaments seem to be in Memphis. The three and a half hour drive turned into a drive of reflections for me.

About an hour out from Memphis is the small town of Jackson, Tennessee,which is home of Union University, my future place of residence. As we passed exit 80A a wave of emotions fled over me. I realized this time next year that is where I will be. On my own with no parents there for me everyday. No familiar faces I have seen since kindergarten. No goofy older brother who is actually super cool in my eyes, because no matter how odd he is, he will always be my cool older brother.

The closer we get to May 23 the more real this is starting to seem. I'm going to be living on my own. Doing my own thing. I can't believe I'll soon be 18. Old enough to make my decisions all by myself. It is so weird to think that soon I will be cooking for myself, doing my own laundry, and hanging out with a whole new group of friends.

I feel uncomfortable about this new life lurking around the corner. Questions flood my mind. What if they don't like me? What happens if I can't do my own laundry? Who is going to be there for me when I am having a bad day? Why are all my friends going to be so far away?

As I sit in my hotel room bed and ponder these thoughts, one word fills my mind. GOD. The one constant in my life will never change. No matter how far away I am from home and from my friends He is always there.

As I continue to get excited about my life ahead I forget to slow down and think. No matter what happens I know I can always count on my faith to get me through. Going to a Christian school is one of the best decisions I think I will make. I know just because its a Christian school doesn't mean everything is going to be perfect, but is sure will help remind me daily what should be number one in my life.

I have so many mixed feelings about college!! I can't wait to be at Union and have a new journey before me. But I can't believe I am going to be leaving my friends, from some that I have known since preschool, to others that I have just met this year. My friends mean the world to me and have helped me through the toughest things in my life. I won't be losing them, just not living in the same city as them. I know at times its going to be tough and I am going to hate it. But I know God has a plan for my life, and I can't wait to see how it all plays out...

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and future. Jeremiah 29:11

I know its a simple verse that has been taught for years. But it has so much meaning at this point in my life. And I know everything is going to work out.

HOW AWESOME!!

Elizabeth Cochran
3:14