They're Everywhere!

One of the entertaining things about my school is the fact that there are so many odd couples....everywhere! They walk as close as they can to each other without actually touching, they sit on the same side of the table, they stare into each others eyes...ok I'm done ranting. I can't even walk down the sidewalk because they're just standing there staring at each other. But there have been a few times this semester that I've seen the normal couples. The ones who are friends. They laugh and talk and have fun together. I've seen guys jump out from behind doors with sunflowers and it's so sweet and funny. When I see these couples it makes me miss Mike more than I ever thought I could. I miss talking to him and laughing with him. I miss spending time with him. I love the fact that he knows my favorite flower and the way I like my coffee (VERY important!) He's great and I miss him. But Thanksgiving is only a few weeks away..... trying to stay positive!:)

The portrait should point beyond itself...

I have been going to a great church in Greenville. The pastor has been doing a series on marriage and even though I'm not married, I have learned alot! Today we discussed why marriages fail and the purpose of marriage. God created marriage and it is gift. "Marriage is designed by God to magnify His loyal love." I've heard it put that marriage is like a triangle. Two people focusing on loving God and He in turn brings them together. The more these two people love God, the more they will learn to love each other the right way. Marriage is a picture of God's love for us. When people only focus on the portrait, their marriages become strained, but when they look beyond the portrait they understand what they represent- God's love for the Church. "Marriage is a beautiful pleasure that is satisfying, but again it points beyond itself to the ULTIMATE love." This phrase was so powerful to me. God designed marriage to be beautiful and satisfying, but only that it should reflect Him. I have seen so many couples who are consumed with the perfect picture.... the beautiful house, good jobs, cute kids... and yes, the picture is pretty, but it represents nothing. I heard the testimony of a young couple who chose to live in low income housing for the purpose of reaching their neighbors with the Gospel. They just graduated from college and had really great jobs. Instead of focusing on the "American Dream" they decided to follow God's leading and show His love to those around them. They may not have much, but they have each other, their love and desire for God, and a desire to point others to Christ.

I know I have so much more to learn about marriage. But I pray that my marriage will be consumed in God and that our portrait will point to something beyond itself- our Savior.

"Marriage is not to replace heaven, but to prepare for it."

New blog!

Michael Cohenour is not only my boyfriend and best friend, but he is also one of the most gifted people I have ever known. I say gifted because I believe that God has given him the gift of helping people. He has such a tender heart and compassion for people. He listens, tries to understand, and gives godly advice. Mike will do great things for God and I can't wait to see how God is going to use Him.

He just started his own counseling blog and I think everyone should read it! His words point you to Christ and remind you of the hope and love of our Savior. I'm so proud of him and I'm thankful that he is so willing to reach out to others and point them to Christ. Here's the website...check it out! www.hopecounselinggroup.blogspot.com

Books, Books, and more Books.....

I am a SENIOR in college...wow!!!!!!! I never thought this year would come..haha:) Now that I'm back and getting into my classes, I've realized that my days will be filled with reading, papers, projects, and presentations. It's going to be a very busy semester!! But it's so exciting to be back in the classroom learning and growing. I love these classes that really make you think. It's not just memorizing facts, but it's really thinking about life experiences and applying biblical truths in different situations.

So, for the next few months my life will be consumed with books......... but then it will be time to GRADUATE!!!!