Today I'm thankful for friends. Their laughter, their smiles, their jokes. Just thankful that friends are friends forever if the Lords the lord of them.
Too blessed to be stressed,
LG.
Friday, January 31, 2014
January 30th and 31st, 2014
It's been such a long month. So much stuff going on, so much stuff to do. These posts keep getting shorter and shorter as more work gets piled on every day.
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
January 29th, 2014
Ya know, sometimes it's better to just be lazy and not do anything. Today was one of those days. Too bad these past few days have made it that much harder to get back into the swing of things.
I'm so thankful to be able to share it with some of my best friends even though I can't be home with my parents and puppy to enjoy with them, it is still amazing to see how much fun they are having back home.
Snow is so rare here in the South, so enjoy it while it lasts.
Love always,
LG.
I'm so thankful to be able to share it with some of my best friends even though I can't be home with my parents and puppy to enjoy with them, it is still amazing to see how much fun they are having back home.
Snow is so rare here in the South, so enjoy it while it lasts.
Love always,
LG.
January 28th, 2014
SNOW SNOW SNOW SNOW SNOW
thankful for the snow and the beauts I get to share it with.
Be thankful, it's rare in the south.
LG
Monday, January 27, 2014
January 26th and 27th, 2014
I'm thankful for papers. Teachers that assign these papers to make you realize how stinkin blessed you are. Papers that reflect on your life and your walk with an amazing God who never fails.
In the words of Forrest Gump, "and that's all I had to say about that."
Goodnight,
Lg
Sunday, January 26, 2014
January 25th, 2014
I've had such a great day. I got to get my nails done with my sister and now I'm spending the night with some of my best friends. I literally am blessed beyond belief with some of the greatest friends in the world. 
Stay true be you,
Lg.
Friday, January 24, 2014
January 23rd and 24th, 2014
Today I'm thankful for the opportunity to come home. I haven't been home in 3 weeks, and the long drive home was well worth it. I get to cuddle with my dog, hug my mom, and laugh at my dads bad jokes. I get to see friends, and family and relax for a day or two.
I always take advantage of the blessings my parents have provided for me, but now that I'm getting older I realize how much they have sacrificed for me.
Today I came home and cooked dinner for my parents and got to talk about all the things that have gone on at school since I saw them last Sunday.
Simple. Something so simple is so touching.
“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your
I always take advantage of the blessings my parents have provided for me, but now that I'm getting older I realize how much they have sacrificed for me.
Today I came home and cooked dinner for my parents and got to talk about all the things that have gone on at school since I saw them last Sunday.
Simple. Something so simple is so touching.
Exodus 20:12
“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your
God is giving you."
Think about it,
lg.
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
January 22nd, 2014
It's so simplistic. An email, a prayer, a thought for others. It's something that simple that can change someone's day.
Today I wasn't feeling my best and I only went to half of my classes. The ones I had to miss were two of my most important classes, but thankfully the education department here at AU is filled with some of the most amazing and caring professors I have ever met.
Teachers that genuinely hope you feel better, and pray with you at the beginning of class and pray for you AFTER class. It's amazing. And it's a life altering feeling to know that someone cares that much.
The professors here at Anderson are more than just regular professors, they're devout Christians who want you to grow in your walk as they mentor you. These professors genuinely wish the best for you and will do anything to help you succeed.
This school, these professors, the students, the staff, the guest speakers, the campus worship. This is what it means to be a family. The Trojan family is more than anything I could've ever asked for in a school.
“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.”
Jeremiah 17:7-8
Amazed,
lg
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
January 20th and 21st, 2014.
It's been a long couple of weeks as school has started back, and I am being pulled in every direction. But for today and yesterday, I am so thankful for my relationship with Cory and his friendship over the past few years.
Cory has been there for me since sophomore year of high school. He was there for my family and I during my grandparents passing, and I was there for him during his grandma's battle with cancer.
Words can't explain how much I love Cory and how much of a blessing he has been to my family and I over the years. Of course the first thing my parents ask for after I tell them I would meet them for dinner was if Cory could come too.
Cory has blessed my life so much more than I ever could have imagined.
I encourage you to find a friend like Cory, and when you do, never let them go because no matter how much we fight or ignore each other he is always there for me when I need him.
Stay true,
LG.
Cory has been there for me since sophomore year of high school. He was there for my family and I during my grandparents passing, and I was there for him during his grandma's battle with cancer.
Words can't explain how much I love Cory and how much of a blessing he has been to my family and I over the years. Of course the first thing my parents ask for after I tell them I would meet them for dinner was if Cory could come too.
Cory has blessed my life so much more than I ever could have imagined.
I encourage you to find a friend like Cory, and when you do, never let them go because no matter how much we fight or ignore each other he is always there for me when I need him.
Stay true,
LG.
Sunday, January 19, 2014
January 18th and 19th, 2014
Today I am thankful for my parents once again. They got the chance to get out of Columbia this weekend and they're last night they decided to stop in Anderson and see me and stay the night.
Now that I'm in school and I work all summer I have maybe 2 months consecutively and maybe 2 weeks a year that I spend with them at home. My parents didn't have to stop here in Anderson and take me out to dinner but they did.
Most of the time I am away from home 2-3 weeks at a time during the school year. It's been two weeks since I've seen my family and my mom welcomed me with open arms in the O'Charleys booth and my dad kept being hisself and running into me in Academy.
I'm blessed with two of the best parents I could ever ask for and it's times like this that I wouldn't trade for the world.
Forever grateful,
LG.
Friday, January 17, 2014
January 16th and 17th, 2014
Yesterday was such a long day, and had so much going on that I completely didn't have time to write a blog. After going through both of these days, it has made me realize that I need to be thankful for rest. Over this past year, I have battled mono, and it still has lasting effects on me.
After last semester, I realized that sometimes I just need to lay down and relax, take a nap or two, and just chill.
Today, as I got my official letter into the Teacher Education Program here at Anderson University, I realized that all the time, hard work, late nights, and break downs paid off. I was one more step closer to achieving my dream of becoming a teacher for those who sometimes can't speak for themselves.
Years ago, I always asked why God placed me with an Autistic brother. Why me and my family of all of the millions of people in the world...it made me realize that this was exactly where I needed to be.
Overall, after the hard work, the tears and the stress I can finally relax in knowing that I have made that one step closer to my goal.
After last semester, I realized that sometimes I just need to lay down and relax, take a nap or two, and just chill.
Today, as I got my official letter into the Teacher Education Program here at Anderson University, I realized that all the time, hard work, late nights, and break downs paid off. I was one more step closer to achieving my dream of becoming a teacher for those who sometimes can't speak for themselves.
Years ago, I always asked why God placed me with an Autistic brother. Why me and my family of all of the millions of people in the world...it made me realize that this was exactly where I needed to be.
Overall, after the hard work, the tears and the stress I can finally relax in knowing that I have made that one step closer to my goal.
2 Chronicles 15:7
"But you, take courage! Do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded.”
Keep striving, don't lose hope.
LG.
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
January 15th, 2014
So every Wednesday, Anderson University has a designated time set aside for chapel. This time is specifically set aside for our campus to come together as a body and worship our Lord. We are required to go to at least 8 chapels a semester as a school policy.
I have known a lot of people to complain about having to go to so many chapels, but quite frankly I enjoy it. I enjoy the time we have to spend together as a student body, the time we have together to worship our One God.
Our campus ministries team does a PHENOMENAL job getting amazing speakers not only from our own school, but from across the world. We have had anyone from Algernon Tennyson to Clayton King speak at our chapels, and I honestly couldn't ask for better experiences.
Blessed,
LG.
I have known a lot of people to complain about having to go to so many chapels, but quite frankly I enjoy it. I enjoy the time we have to spend together as a student body, the time we have together to worship our One God.
Our campus ministries team does a PHENOMENAL job getting amazing speakers not only from our own school, but from across the world. We have had anyone from Algernon Tennyson to Clayton King speak at our chapels, and I honestly couldn't ask for better experiences.
1 Chronicles 16:23-31
Sing to the LORD, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. For great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; he is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the nations are idols, but the LORD made the heavens. Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and joy in his dwelling place. Ascribe to the LORD, O families of nations, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength, ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name. Bring an offering and come before him; worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness. Tremble before him, all the earth! The world is firmly established; it cannot be moved. Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let them say among the nations, "The LORD reigns!"
Anderson University is more than just a school, it's a second home. I have been blessed with the opportunity to attend school here, and it is an amazing opportunity to be able to worship with your classmates and professors.
I posted this video the other day when I wrote about AU, but if you haven't watched it, you need to. It's the perfect insight to what our campus really is about.
Blessed,
LG.
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
January 14th, 2014
Today I'm thankful for my grandparents and their long talks about random crap daily. My grandparents and I were never close when I was younger, so now I cherish the time I do have with them. When I come home they are my first stop in and my last stop out. I call my grandparents every day and talk at least 20 minutes.
These things are irreplaceable and I would never change the memories we have made.
Psalms 92:14 “ They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green.”
Monday, January 13, 2014
January 13th, 2014
Been up since 7:30 and still going...what? Thus is the life of a college student. Today I went through classes, have been to the bookstore three times, sat through class, had a long talk with Carrie, took a nap, went to Moes, went to the Anderson mall...which consists of absolutely NOTHING...and have done homework. Jam packed day full of fun. *insert sarcastic looking emoji here*
Throughout the day I was so focused on just getting things done that I didn't pay much attention to my surroundings.
Tonight, while waiting to go to Moes in Cathryn's room, she had been on the phone with her parents talking about a book mishap, yada yada yada. Then Kalyn, Cathryn, and I got on the topic about how our parents felt about our grades, etc. which brings me to my thankful thing for today.
My parents have never pushed for Christopher and I to have straight-A's. My mom and dad always told us that they were proud of us as long as we tried our hardest, and did our best.
My parents have never set a curfew for my brother and I, but they expect us to be respectful on time when we'd be coming in the garage door that has this God-awful squeak. My parents have never questioned where we were going as long as they knew who we were with, and we kept them updated for safety reasons. My parents always tell us they're proud of us, and have literally broken their backs for my brother and I to have an education whether it was at Glenforest, and the Art Institute for Toph, or AU for myself. My parents took me to softball practice, band practice, church, volleyball practice, and to tournaments for softball. We went to Carolina games, numerous bowl games, took my brother to Atlanta and to West Virginia for trips, they drove all the way to DC and back TWICE in 2011 so I could attend a Youth Leadership Forum on National Security, and have even paid for two cars for my brother and one for me not to mention their own vehicles.
My parents are some of the "rare few" as I like to call it. In today's society, the common thing is divorce, or multiple marriages. Though throughout the hardships my parents have faced together, whether it was my dad fighting cancer, my grandparents fighting cancer, my brother's diagnosis, trying to keep me busy and sane, my moms parents as they get older, no matter what, they always have each others backs.
I remember asking my mom many times, if they kept fighting why don't they just get a divorce? She always had some smart response like "because I've stuck with him this long, a few more years won't kill me," or "when I married your daddy, your Grandma Mary said no take backs, so I'm stuck with him." Through it all, my mom and dad have kept this sense of humility and humor in their marriage.
There's just some things I don't understand, and one of those is my parent's relationship, and how they've dealt with each other for the past *almost* 30 years...but they have. I know I always say, "my first marriage will be my only marriage" but seriously...I get tired of people after a certain length of time. Shoot even breaks for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Summer...when I'm home, and fall and spring break are too long for me to handle my whole family, but I wouldn't have it any other way.
One of my moms most quotable bible verses is Proverbs 22:6- "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he shall not depart from it." If I do say so myself, my parents have done a phenomenal job raising a high-functioning Autistic kid, and his little sister who would go to bed fearing for her life. And I couldn't be more thankful for that.
Blessed immeasurably more,
LG.
Throughout the day I was so focused on just getting things done that I didn't pay much attention to my surroundings.
Tonight, while waiting to go to Moes in Cathryn's room, she had been on the phone with her parents talking about a book mishap, yada yada yada. Then Kalyn, Cathryn, and I got on the topic about how our parents felt about our grades, etc. which brings me to my thankful thing for today.
My parents have never pushed for Christopher and I to have straight-A's. My mom and dad always told us that they were proud of us as long as we tried our hardest, and did our best.
My parents have never set a curfew for my brother and I, but they expect us to be respectful on time when we'd be coming in the garage door that has this God-awful squeak. My parents have never questioned where we were going as long as they knew who we were with, and we kept them updated for safety reasons. My parents always tell us they're proud of us, and have literally broken their backs for my brother and I to have an education whether it was at Glenforest, and the Art Institute for Toph, or AU for myself. My parents took me to softball practice, band practice, church, volleyball practice, and to tournaments for softball. We went to Carolina games, numerous bowl games, took my brother to Atlanta and to West Virginia for trips, they drove all the way to DC and back TWICE in 2011 so I could attend a Youth Leadership Forum on National Security, and have even paid for two cars for my brother and one for me not to mention their own vehicles.
My parents are some of the "rare few" as I like to call it. In today's society, the common thing is divorce, or multiple marriages. Though throughout the hardships my parents have faced together, whether it was my dad fighting cancer, my grandparents fighting cancer, my brother's diagnosis, trying to keep me busy and sane, my moms parents as they get older, no matter what, they always have each others backs.
I remember asking my mom many times, if they kept fighting why don't they just get a divorce? She always had some smart response like "because I've stuck with him this long, a few more years won't kill me," or "when I married your daddy, your Grandma Mary said no take backs, so I'm stuck with him." Through it all, my mom and dad have kept this sense of humility and humor in their marriage.
There's just some things I don't understand, and one of those is my parent's relationship, and how they've dealt with each other for the past *almost* 30 years...but they have. I know I always say, "my first marriage will be my only marriage" but seriously...I get tired of people after a certain length of time. Shoot even breaks for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Summer...when I'm home, and fall and spring break are too long for me to handle my whole family, but I wouldn't have it any other way.
One of my moms most quotable bible verses is Proverbs 22:6- "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he shall not depart from it." If I do say so myself, my parents have done a phenomenal job raising a high-functioning Autistic kid, and his little sister who would go to bed fearing for her life. And I couldn't be more thankful for that.
Blessed immeasurably more,
LG.
Sunday, January 12, 2014
January 12th, 2014
So as lame as it sounds today I did absolutely nothing minus homework. I'm gonna be one of those nerds and be thankful for homework though because I'm the kind of person who does not retain things very easily. It has been 4 years since I've had a Spanish class and today just by doing my iLrn homework, I have recalled so many things that I can use in my Spanish class.
Now if you know me, you know how much I HATED Spanish in high school, and quite frankly I still despise it. But after working in multiple classrooms and at CBG since my last Spanish class I've seen how beneficial Spanish will be to my job. Granted I don't know whether or not I'll have any Hispanic special needs children in my classroom or this summer at camp, but if I do I'll be decently equipped.
As crazy as it is, yes I'm thankful for homework.
Ecclesiastes 7:12
For the protection of wisdom is like the protection of money, and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of him who has it.
Con amor,
LG
Saturday, January 11, 2014
January 11th, 2014
Today I was awoken at 5 am for a severe weather warning coming from my phone. Things I'm never expecting seem to always lead to some of the biggest blessings.
Today we got the much needed rain across our state after this long week of suffering the cold that never comes to our state.
After the rain subsided, I went outside to take the trash out, and I didn't see dark clouds, or lightening, I saw white clouds and a sky clearing out to a blue one. It amazes me how after all of this bad weather, God can just open up the sky and let His glory shine.
Sometimes all it takes is a little bit of rain for a bright sky full of sunlight.
This can also apply to our daily walks. God never closes one door without opening another. After applying for three years to a summer camp I had attended for 7 years, and being rejected every time, I got the idea of searching for special needs kids summer camps in South Carolina.
After Googling this idea, I came across Camp Burnt Gin and it was the best decision I've ever made. His plan was much bigger than mine, and without losing the opportunity at one job and finding Camp Burnt Gin, I would have never had the best summer of my life.
James 1:12
Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.
Hang in there, His plans have proven greater than our expectations!
LG.
Today we got the much needed rain across our state after this long week of suffering the cold that never comes to our state.
After the rain subsided, I went outside to take the trash out, and I didn't see dark clouds, or lightening, I saw white clouds and a sky clearing out to a blue one. It amazes me how after all of this bad weather, God can just open up the sky and let His glory shine.
Sometimes all it takes is a little bit of rain for a bright sky full of sunlight.
This can also apply to our daily walks. God never closes one door without opening another. After applying for three years to a summer camp I had attended for 7 years, and being rejected every time, I got the idea of searching for special needs kids summer camps in South Carolina.
After Googling this idea, I came across Camp Burnt Gin and it was the best decision I've ever made. His plan was much bigger than mine, and without losing the opportunity at one job and finding Camp Burnt Gin, I would have never had the best summer of my life.
James 1:12
Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.
Hang in there, His plans have proven greater than our expectations!
LG.
Friday, January 10, 2014
January 10th, 2014
Today has been so long. I have to completely be thankful for the friendships with the girls in my close friend group.
Katy, Cathryn, Carla, Caroline, Taylor, and Kalyn, and Rachel have all had an impact on me tremendously. I seriously consider all of these girls some of my best friends I have ever had.
These girls are such a huge influence on my life, and I'm so thankful that I have the privilege to know every single one of them, and that they have such a big impact on my life.
I am blessed beyond belief.
From the ups and the downs, we have always stuck together through everything. We might not always get along, but we are always supportive of each other.
Words truly can't describe how thankful I am for every single one of them.
From the ups and the downs, we have always stuck together through everything. We might not always get along, but we are always supportive of each other.
Words truly can't describe how thankful I am for every single one of them.
Proverbs 18:24
A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
Thursday, January 9, 2014
January 9th, 2014
Wow, what a great start this year has already been. So many blessings, and so many lessons so far and it has only been 9 days.
Today while sitting at the student worker desk at the ACCEL office, I realized how stinkin' blessed I am with the opportunity to go to this phenomenal school. Anderson has been my dream school since 2007 when I first had the opportunity to visit for a music arts camp.
I knew I would never want to be anywhere else, even after my hardships freshman year, and the pressure to go to other schools, my family has only had to pay around 400$ the entire time I have been here at AU.
Anderson is literally my second home. Sometimes I spend my time daydreaming about home in West Cola, and when I'm home I'm dreaming about coming back to school. The friendships I've made, and the experiences I've had in my 3 semesters so far is ridiculously amazing, and I quite honestly don't think I would have had these opportunities elsewhere.
To have professors who truly care about you, who pray for you daily, who genuinely want to know how you are doing, and will work with you throughout any circumstance is so comforting; plus they KNOW YOUR NAME...it's more than I could have ever asked for in a post-secondary education.
Not to mention the staff that aren't even professors...people like Carrie Motes, one of my "other moms" who I work with in the Switchboard, Sarah Mudd the amazing Student Activities director and SGA Advisor, Becky Walker, the funniest lady on campus, and even Mr. and Mrs. Whitaker. They all truly invest their time into each and every students life. I honestly couldn't imagine having anywhere else to spend my time as an undergrad.
I have been blessed with the opportunity to serve on Freshman class senate last year, and now Sophomore class president. The chair for the South Carolina Student Legislature delegation, and was blessed in October 2012 with a job in the Admissions office.
I'm so blessed to have the ability and accessibility to go to a school like Anderson University. Plus, who else can say they have the opportunity EVERY WEEK to worship with their classmates?
Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?
Standing with the One victorious,
LG.
Today while sitting at the student worker desk at the ACCEL office, I realized how stinkin' blessed I am with the opportunity to go to this phenomenal school. Anderson has been my dream school since 2007 when I first had the opportunity to visit for a music arts camp.
I knew I would never want to be anywhere else, even after my hardships freshman year, and the pressure to go to other schools, my family has only had to pay around 400$ the entire time I have been here at AU.
Anderson is literally my second home. Sometimes I spend my time daydreaming about home in West Cola, and when I'm home I'm dreaming about coming back to school. The friendships I've made, and the experiences I've had in my 3 semesters so far is ridiculously amazing, and I quite honestly don't think I would have had these opportunities elsewhere.
To have professors who truly care about you, who pray for you daily, who genuinely want to know how you are doing, and will work with you throughout any circumstance is so comforting; plus they KNOW YOUR NAME...it's more than I could have ever asked for in a post-secondary education.
Not to mention the staff that aren't even professors...people like Carrie Motes, one of my "other moms" who I work with in the Switchboard, Sarah Mudd the amazing Student Activities director and SGA Advisor, Becky Walker, the funniest lady on campus, and even Mr. and Mrs. Whitaker. They all truly invest their time into each and every students life. I honestly couldn't imagine having anywhere else to spend my time as an undergrad.
I have been blessed with the opportunity to serve on Freshman class senate last year, and now Sophomore class president. The chair for the South Carolina Student Legislature delegation, and was blessed in October 2012 with a job in the Admissions office.
I'm so blessed to have the ability and accessibility to go to a school like Anderson University. Plus, who else can say they have the opportunity EVERY WEEK to worship with their classmates?
2 Corinthians 6:14
Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?
Standing with the One victorious,
LG.
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
January 8th, 2014
ITS MY DADDY'S BIRTHDAY!!!!
Today is one of those bittersweet days where I wish I could be close enough to home to celebrate, but then again I was blessed with a great first day of classes here at Anderson University.
My dad has been through so much in his 56 years of life, and even though we don't get along as much as I'd like to, he's always there when I need him, and even when I just wanna make him mad by fixing my cup of coffee in the keurig first, he has his little fit and then moves on. My dad knows more than anyone I've ever met on history, and if you challenge him, he will show you up.
My brother and my dad are so much more alike than my dad would want to admit. Like father, like son that's for sure, but in the end I love them even more every day that I get to spend with them.
My dad lost his dad while he was a teenager, and had to step up to the plate and be the man of the family. He dropped out of college to support his family through the trade he and his dad practiced. He had a special needs sister who passed around the same time as his dad. He watched his mom fall in love with another man who would soon take the responsibility of the fatherly figure in his household. My dad had his whole plans changed one night by playing church basketball, and a broken toe changed his plans from going into the military, or he probably would have never met my mom. He has lost multiple friends along the way, more recently his parents, but he still continues to strive.
If you would have told my family that our world would be flipped upside down in 2006, I never would have believed you. My dad was diagnosed with bladder cancer, and suffered one of the biggest hardships of his life. He lost his managerial job at a company he had been at for years and had to start all over. He watched his parents suffer the same fate, only coming out victorious in the end with Jesus. He feared that he would lose everything he had worked for, but still persevered.
My dad is the true definition of a hero, he fought and overcame, he loved, he cared, he sacrificed, and though he might not be proud of himself all the time, I sure am. My dad means more to me than anyone ever could. He is not only my dad, but my coach, my partner in crime, and most importantly, my friend.
I got this sign for him for his birthday, and it's a true definition of my father from my point of view.
Joshua 1:9
...Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
^^^^^^^true definition of my father.
I love my dad more than words can say, and I'm so thankful he has outlived the "expected" time that his dad and grandpa lived to be. My dad is a miracle, and I love him.
Happy birthday, dad!
Love,
Lauren.
Today is one of those bittersweet days where I wish I could be close enough to home to celebrate, but then again I was blessed with a great first day of classes here at Anderson University.
My dad has been through so much in his 56 years of life, and even though we don't get along as much as I'd like to, he's always there when I need him, and even when I just wanna make him mad by fixing my cup of coffee in the keurig first, he has his little fit and then moves on. My dad knows more than anyone I've ever met on history, and if you challenge him, he will show you up.
My brother and my dad are so much more alike than my dad would want to admit. Like father, like son that's for sure, but in the end I love them even more every day that I get to spend with them.
My dad lost his dad while he was a teenager, and had to step up to the plate and be the man of the family. He dropped out of college to support his family through the trade he and his dad practiced. He had a special needs sister who passed around the same time as his dad. He watched his mom fall in love with another man who would soon take the responsibility of the fatherly figure in his household. My dad had his whole plans changed one night by playing church basketball, and a broken toe changed his plans from going into the military, or he probably would have never met my mom. He has lost multiple friends along the way, more recently his parents, but he still continues to strive.
If you would have told my family that our world would be flipped upside down in 2006, I never would have believed you. My dad was diagnosed with bladder cancer, and suffered one of the biggest hardships of his life. He lost his managerial job at a company he had been at for years and had to start all over. He watched his parents suffer the same fate, only coming out victorious in the end with Jesus. He feared that he would lose everything he had worked for, but still persevered.
My dad is the true definition of a hero, he fought and overcame, he loved, he cared, he sacrificed, and though he might not be proud of himself all the time, I sure am. My dad means more to me than anyone ever could. He is not only my dad, but my coach, my partner in crime, and most importantly, my friend.
I got this sign for him for his birthday, and it's a true definition of my father from my point of view.
Joshua 1:9
...Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
^^^^^^^true definition of my father.
I love my dad more than words can say, and I'm so thankful he has outlived the "expected" time that his dad and grandpa lived to be. My dad is a miracle, and I love him.
Happy birthday, dad!
Love,
Lauren.
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
January 7th, 2014
These posts keep getting later and later, but that means that I have that much more time to find something to be thankful for.
Peace and blessings,
LG.
For 1 my gamecocks finished 4th in the polls this season, highest ever on school record. Pretty awesome. 2nd, my roommate finally came home to join me today and we start classes tomorrow. And last but not least, I got an amazing present from her and her mama whom I love so much.
But for today, I'm thankful for that of a friendship that I have with my roommate and her mom, and quite frankly her whole family. Even though I'm a Carolina fan, and they like that other team, they welcomed me with open arms. Kalyn and her family have continually supported me for the past year, and I can't express enough how thankful I am for them.
From the random trip this summer to surprise Kalyn, to my mono adventures, to our auditions this semester, the Price family has adopted me as one of their own....especially since I'm 3 hours from my own family.
This family is more than I could ever ask for in one of my "other families" and to watch them simply interact with others as a family and individually, is so inspiring. They embrace life's challenges and follow God with everything they have. They are such a Godly family, and I'm so blessed to know them.
Here's a picture of the AMAZING gamecock mason jar they gave me for Christmas!
Joshua 24:15
But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD."
Peace and blessings,
LG.
Monday, January 6, 2014
January 6th, 2014
The drive to Anderson from West Columbia is about 2 to 2 & 1/2 hours. Throughout the drive you have the opportunity, if taken, to relax and take in the scenery surrounding you, obviously while paying attention to the road. Halfway to Anderson, I take a short detour off of 385 into Mauldin. From Mauldin, back on 385 just enough to avoid the toll road...why it still exists, I don't know.
On the other side of Mauldin, you get the sense that you're almost home...the same way Cory and I get when we see we are at the Chapin exit. As I merged back on to 385, I noticed through my sunglasses that there was a random pink trim to the bottom of the clouds ahead. I blinked a few times, and tried to see if it was just me seeing things, but it wasn't.
This pink trim only surrounded the bottom of the clouds in front of where the sun would soon appear. It then made me realize how things like a random pink lining, or a clear blue sky and winds like the devil outside ARE NOT natural. God makes everything beautiful in it's time, and the way these clouds were moving, I saw this pink trim at the perfect time, because it soon would be gone.
Today's trip made me realize to be thankful for the blessings I do have. Not everyone is blessed with the life I have, the opportunities I have been given, or the friendships that I continually strive to make better. The car my parents work so hard to pay for, the education my parents provide for me, the care and support my whole family gives me when I am struggling. My grandpa who saves up quarters just for me so I will have change to do laundry, my grandma who constantly prays for me and tells me how proud she is of me, and my friends who keep me laughing even when I wish I was still home. But I'm blessed to have a God whose love NEVER fails, no matter how bad I screw up, or run, He is ALWAYS there.
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28
Phil 4:13,
LG.
Sunday, January 5, 2014
January 5th, 2014
I've literally been watching Law and Order: SVU all day long. Watching this show makes me realize how blessed I am to live where I live, and with such an amazing family. I have a mom who is a chorus teacher, so inevitably all of her students become my family. The only thing different is that Kari Ann was never one of my moms students, but my mom admires Kari Ann because of how great she is to my brother and Derrick.
Though Kari Ann isn't blood, she's the big sister I've always wanted. Having KA around and see how much she loves not only my blood brother, but my other "brother" is amazing. She literally has one of the biggest hearts I've ever seen in my entire life.
Words honestly can't describe how thankful I am to have Kari Ann in my life. She is always there when I need her, and I can talk to her about anything. I honestly don't know how I got so blessed to have someone like Kari Ann in my life. She is literally this best sister I could ever ask for.
Though Kari Ann isn't blood, she's the big sister I've always wanted. Having KA around and see how much she loves not only my blood brother, but my other "brother" is amazing. She literally has one of the biggest hearts I've ever seen in my entire life.
Words honestly can't describe how thankful I am to have Kari Ann in my life. She is always there when I need her, and I can talk to her about anything. I honestly don't know how I got so blessed to have someone like Kari Ann in my life. She is literally this best sister I could ever ask for.
Proverbs 3:15
"She is more precious than jewels, and nothing you desire can compare with her."
Forever grateful,
LG.
Saturday, January 4, 2014
January 4th, 2013
So as crazy as it sounds, I slept literally 11 hours...waking up at 1 PM.
Today, what else to be thankful for other than SLEEP?
Literally y'all don't understand, after having mono sleep has become my best friend. Kalyn, my roommate, swears up and down I sleep more than a newborn baby, and quite frankly, I'm ok with that. Mono is a hard thing to recuperate from and even after it being almost a year I'm still down and out for the count.
Forreal though, sleep is a gold mine, an escape from problems, and come on now even God rested on the 7th day...granted today's the 6th, but I'll be worshipping him on the 7th so you gotta pick and choose your battles.
Psalm 4:8 NLT
And holla for the good hair day for family pictures yesterday!
Today, what else to be thankful for other than SLEEP?
Literally y'all don't understand, after having mono sleep has become my best friend. Kalyn, my roommate, swears up and down I sleep more than a newborn baby, and quite frankly, I'm ok with that. Mono is a hard thing to recuperate from and even after it being almost a year I'm still down and out for the count.
Forreal though, sleep is a gold mine, an escape from problems, and come on now even God rested on the 7th day...granted today's the 6th, but I'll be worshipping him on the 7th so you gotta pick and choose your battles.
Psalm 4:8 NLT
I will lie down in peace and sleep, for you alone, O LORD, will keep me safe.
Living in THE light!
LG
Friday, January 3, 2014
January 3rd, 2013
Wow, today has been a long day. It was also one of those days where I was surrounded by so many things I couldn't choose just one. Finally, I decided on what I was truly thankful for today.
Today is another day I got the blessing to babysit my next door neighbors. Maggie and Lily also had the privilege to join my family and I at my church for my family pictures.
After spending time with these girls for the last 4 hours plus the multiple times before, I've realized how blessed I am to have the opportunity to influence these girls even if it's for a short time while I'm home.
Not only do I have the opportunity to minister to them, but our neighbor Madison as well. Hanging out with these girls I remember what life truly means when you're 5, 7, and 8. It's living every day like it's the best day of your life. Not only do I get to teach them, but they get to teach me daily.
January 2nd, 2014
Two days into the New Year, and I've already wasted almost half of it sleeping...but I'm ok with that.
Today I had a lot of choices I could choose from, but after sitting in Carolina Wings for 2 & 1/2 hours with my mom and some friends from high school, I realized how blessed I really am. Truth be told, I have some of the best friends any girl could ask for.
While listening to my moms prayer at the table, I realized how much of an impact these people have had on not just my life, but on the life of my mom. My mom taught all of these friends but one, and she's been my best friend for a few years.
"I thank you for the laughter, and the joy that every single one of them has brought into my life," my mom said...and then it hit me...not only has God placed these friends in my life to be there for me, but to be there for my mom as well.
James, Brittany, Cory, Shanice, and even Dina and Marquez who weren't there, have all made a lasting impact on not just myself but my mom and dad as well. In fact, it was my mom who requested to have dinner with this group of her former students. I've known James, Brittany, and Cory the longest but every one of these friends have been there for me for years.
The fact that every single one of them cares about me and my mom just as much means so much more to me than anyone could ever imagine. My mom has become my best friend these last few years, and the fact that I have friends who care just as much about my mom as anyone else is the best thing I could ever ask for.
"This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends." John 15:12-13
And quite frankly, I would lay down my life for every single one of them.
Be blessed,
LG.
Today I had a lot of choices I could choose from, but after sitting in Carolina Wings for 2 & 1/2 hours with my mom and some friends from high school, I realized how blessed I really am. Truth be told, I have some of the best friends any girl could ask for.
While listening to my moms prayer at the table, I realized how much of an impact these people have had on not just my life, but on the life of my mom. My mom taught all of these friends but one, and she's been my best friend for a few years.
"I thank you for the laughter, and the joy that every single one of them has brought into my life," my mom said...and then it hit me...not only has God placed these friends in my life to be there for me, but to be there for my mom as well.
James, Brittany, Cory, Shanice, and even Dina and Marquez who weren't there, have all made a lasting impact on not just myself but my mom and dad as well. In fact, it was my mom who requested to have dinner with this group of her former students. I've known James, Brittany, and Cory the longest but every one of these friends have been there for me for years.
The fact that every single one of them cares about me and my mom just as much means so much more to me than anyone could ever imagine. My mom has become my best friend these last few years, and the fact that I have friends who care just as much about my mom as anyone else is the best thing I could ever ask for.
"This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends." John 15:12-13
And quite frankly, I would lay down my life for every single one of them.
Be blessed,
LG.
Wednesday, January 1, 2014
January 1st, 2014
First of all, it's weird to say 2014, but welcome to the New Year.
I decided to do this blog after it was laid on my heart continuously this past month. I generally cannot continually keep up with things like this, so it will be a challenge, especially after the summer starts and I'm back at CBG. If you're willing to keep up, I'm willing to write, and that's how it's gonna go.
Today is one of those controversial days. "New Year, New Me" is what is generally heard on social media, but I like to think of it as "New Year, New Beginnings." 2013 was a good year, and 2013 was a bad year. There were a lot of trials, and a lot of tears, but a lot of satisfaction and happiness in the end.
The last two days of 2013 I spent with some of the most amazing people I could have ever asked for in my life. On the 30th, I was with my coworkers hanging around Columbia, being the normal camp counselors we are. Kat, Allie, and Brooke never cease to amaze me at how spiritually mature these girls are for 16 and 17 years old. It makes me quite nervous to get into spiritually led conversations because I know I'm not as "spiritual" as I once was. These girls literally make me smile and laugh so much, and I'm so blessed to be friends with them. On the 31st, I spent my day with some family, and then spent the afternoon with my second family, the Altmans. It never fails that I will never stop laughing when I am with them. Whether it's me joking about how much I hate Daniel, or talking about cute people at the ice rink downtown with Jennifer, or even random brother/sister talks with Jeffrey, this family is literally a family of true believers, mom and dad included.
With that being said, that leads me into my actual "thanks" for today. Since I'm spending my day with my family, I figured it was only right to be thankful for this amazing God-given family that I have. I truly am blessed with an amazing and supportive family on both sides. From the "summer of cancer" in 2011, to the "Christmas scare" of 2013, my family is so strong when it comes to these events, and truly resembles that of a family. Whether its me making up for lost time with my grandparents, or observing my brother to learn more about my major, or even seeing the love in my parents eyes, I'm blessed immeasurably more than I could ever fathom. Today is about more than just a new year, or a new date to write on papers at school, it's about new beginnings with those who mean the most to you.
Here's to 2014, and all that comes with it. The laughter, the heartache, the smiles, and the tears. It's all for a greater purpose.
Jeremiah 29:11, y'all!
LG.
I decided to do this blog after it was laid on my heart continuously this past month. I generally cannot continually keep up with things like this, so it will be a challenge, especially after the summer starts and I'm back at CBG. If you're willing to keep up, I'm willing to write, and that's how it's gonna go.
Today is one of those controversial days. "New Year, New Me" is what is generally heard on social media, but I like to think of it as "New Year, New Beginnings." 2013 was a good year, and 2013 was a bad year. There were a lot of trials, and a lot of tears, but a lot of satisfaction and happiness in the end.
The last two days of 2013 I spent with some of the most amazing people I could have ever asked for in my life. On the 30th, I was with my coworkers hanging around Columbia, being the normal camp counselors we are. Kat, Allie, and Brooke never cease to amaze me at how spiritually mature these girls are for 16 and 17 years old. It makes me quite nervous to get into spiritually led conversations because I know I'm not as "spiritual" as I once was. These girls literally make me smile and laugh so much, and I'm so blessed to be friends with them. On the 31st, I spent my day with some family, and then spent the afternoon with my second family, the Altmans. It never fails that I will never stop laughing when I am with them. Whether it's me joking about how much I hate Daniel, or talking about cute people at the ice rink downtown with Jennifer, or even random brother/sister talks with Jeffrey, this family is literally a family of true believers, mom and dad included.
With that being said, that leads me into my actual "thanks" for today. Since I'm spending my day with my family, I figured it was only right to be thankful for this amazing God-given family that I have. I truly am blessed with an amazing and supportive family on both sides. From the "summer of cancer" in 2011, to the "Christmas scare" of 2013, my family is so strong when it comes to these events, and truly resembles that of a family. Whether its me making up for lost time with my grandparents, or observing my brother to learn more about my major, or even seeing the love in my parents eyes, I'm blessed immeasurably more than I could ever fathom. Today is about more than just a new year, or a new date to write on papers at school, it's about new beginnings with those who mean the most to you.
Here's to 2014, and all that comes with it. The laughter, the heartache, the smiles, and the tears. It's all for a greater purpose.
Jeremiah 29:11, y'all!
LG.
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