Day 28: Five odd or unusual things about yourself.

This shouldn't be too difficult to think up.

1.) In a public setting, I have a nearly constant smile on my face.  I love to smile.  That's where the title "Emily is Smiling" came from... and I'm often teased about it from casual friends. 

"Do you ever stop smiling, Emily?" 

"No way!  I love smiling!"  And I do. 

However, Ali and my mom call me a pessimist.  How can this possibly work?  Here's how I see things.  Perhaps I'm a happy pessimist.  Don't start arguing about this concept right away.  Let me explain.  I expect the worst to happen... but I figure I might as well make the best of it.  Does this make sense?  Probably not.  Oh well. :)

2.) I dislike chocolate immensely.  Chocolate cake, chocolate ice cream, fudge, chocolate syrup, chocolate milk, a lot of fancy chocolates... but I DO like Hershey's Kisses, M&M's, and Reese's.  Don't ask me why.

3.) I'm not big on the idea of having my own children.  People always ask why and I always reply, "I'm not a nurturing person!"  But in some ways, I am, because I love inner city kids and children in Africa.  But raising a child of my own sounds terribly frightening.  And possibly even awful.

4.) I take pictures of EVERYTHING.  Ali calls me a picture hoarder because I probably have more than fifteen thousand photographs on my computer.  I am terrified of having a wonderful experience and not being able to capture those memories with a photograph.

5.) I'm a very nervous person when it comes to things like driving, water, fast objects, and... well, most things.  However, I'm quite brave when it comes to situations involving people. 

I wasn't afraid at all when I was walking through the slums of Kenya and Mexico City.  I wasn't afraid at all when I hopped into the back of a pickup with a bunch of strangers who then, to my dismay, proceeded to take me to a liquor store... because I needed a ride.  (Long story.  Looking back, I know what I did wasn't the smartest... and I'll write about it if I get enough requests.) 

Of normal things, I'm terrified.  Of certain pointless and even reckless things, I'm not scared at all.  (For another example, I ADORE scary movies.)

Well, there's my list of five odd or unusual things about me.  What's yours?

Here are the last few Christmas gift ideas for those of you who are running out of time, ideas, and money.

1. Magazine Subscription ($10-20): What's your favorite magazine?  It's pretty easy to give a subscription to a friend or family member. 

2. House Shoes ($10+): Guys and girls both love house shoes.  There are so many different styles and levels of comfort.  Choose slippers, boots, or something fluffy and embarrassing.  You can purchase house shoes for fairly inexpensive prices at stores like Kohl's, Target, and Forever 21.

3. Coffee Mug, $5 Gift Card to Starbucks ($7-15): All you have to do to grab a Starbucks giftcard is drop by Starbucks.  You can buy an inexpensive coffee mug from Walmart or a craft store.  Paint it yourself or choose a Christmas design.  Stick a packet of hot chocolate and a peppermint inside along with the giftcard. 

4. Several Colors of Nail Polish ($5): Walgreene's sells several different shades of nail polish for only a dollar each.  Pick out five different bright colors and wrap them up in a cute box or baggie.  You and your friends can have a manicure together.  A few colors that are trending right now are grays, deep blues, and bright orangey reds. 

5. Snuggie ($15-20): This is kind of old news, but it always works as a handy and silly Christmas gift. 

6. Favorite Candy Bars ($5): If you are running really low on cash, drop by Walmart and purchase several of your friend's favorite candy bars.  Wrap them up in a ribbon or stick them in a pair of fuzzy socks.  Candy will liven up any gift. 

7. Picnik ($5-25): Picnik is an easy-to-use and incredibly handy photo-editing software.  I love Picnik.  Even handier, one-month subscription is only $5.  A year's subscription is $25.  If your friend loves taking pictures, a subscription to Picnik may be a great gift for them. 

8. Little Pet ($15-20): This is only for someone you know well.  Last year, Ali and I banded together and got my little brother a couple of hermit crabs for Christmas.  Two crabs came free with the purchase of a $15 aquarium and then all we had to get was a little bit of food.  You can get hermit crabs at Earthbound Trading Co.  You could also get a friend a little goldfish or betta for only a few dollars... but make sure this little pet is wanted before you make the purchase. 

9. Jewelry from Forever 21 ($1-5): Jewelry from Forever 21 is astoundingly inexpensive.  It isn't high quality, but it's inexpensive and very cute.  Earrings and necklaces are often only a dollar.  Pick out a few adorable pieces of jewelry and wrap them up in a cute little bag.

10. Donate to Charity ($20+): Nothing will make you feel warmer inside than knowing that you've helped someone else.  Use World Vision or Christian Relief Fund to donate money in someone else's name.  If you like, you could even purchase something specific in their name, like a chicken or goat.  Christian Relief Fund will send a letter to the person saying "_____ has been donated in your name to help ______."  What a great gift idea!

Any more Christmas ideas? Leave them in the comments below. If you used one of my ideas, let me know!

Here are some more last minute and fairly inexpensive (under $20) Christmas gift ideas:

1. Memory Box ($5): Go to a craft store and find a little box for a dollar or two.  Decorate it with stickers, ribbon, fabric, or paint, and then fill it with little mementos from your friendship, such as... movie ticket stubs, little photographs, inside jokes, a letter from you, a flower...  Fill this box with little inexpensive memories and it will never be forgotten. 

2. Sunglasses ($5-15): In summer and in winter, everyone can use sunglasses.  Forever 21 and Charlotte Russe both sell sunglasses for less than $10.

3. Hair Clips ($1-5): These can be as inexpensive as you want.  If you go to a craft store, purchase a few fake flowers, ribbons, rhinestones, and clips.  Make sure you have a hot glue gun as well.  You can make adorable colorful (and inexpensive) flowers for your friends' hair.  Don't be afraid to go big with the flowers... or even branch out and use things like feathers and buttons.  And of course, if you're hesitant to make one, you can always purchase one from a store like Claire's or Forever 21.

4. Tree Ornaments ($3 or less): All you need is some ribbon and a few small craft supplies such as puzzle pieces, large buttons, photographs, foam, or cake ornaments.  You can also use cookie cutters, bells, and bookmarks.  If I have time, I'd like to make a few tree ornaments and make a blog post about it, but I may not be able to.  In the meanwhile, there is always Google.  

5. Mix CD ($1): All that this costs is the disc.  Pick some of your favorite songs off of iTunes and make a mix CD for a friend.  This gift is thoughtful, hand-picked, and fun.  Everyone loves new music. 

6. DVD and Popcorn ($5-20): Keep an eye out in Walmart and Hastings for sale bins of DVDs... and you can also purchase previously-viewed DVDs in good shape.  Find one or two fun DVDs for a few dollars and then purchase a bag of popcorn.  You and your loved one can have a movie night. 

7. Pajamas ($10+): Old Navy, Kohl's, and Target all offer adorable PJs.  Most people love pajamas and you can make sure to either pick out an adorable set or something very embarrassing (like a onesie).  This is a useful gift that anyone would appreciate. 

8. Something from Bath & Body Works ($5+): Almost everyone I know loves Bath & Body Works.  I sure do.  Go to their sale rack and purchase a few mini-bottles of your friend's favorite scent.  If you don't know their favorite scent, pick a popular one like Sweet Pea or Vanilla. 

9. Board Game ($10+): This can range from a deck of cards to a bigger game like Apples to Apples or Monopoly.  Not only is this a thoughtful and entertaining gift, but it's also something that you can play with your friend. 

10. Photo Collage (Under $5): This works best if you are a creative person.  Print out several pictures of you and your friend and make a collage.  Use poster paper, ribbons, stickers, fake flowers, feathers, and decorative writing.  Make sure not to make the collage too large... and be sure to use the colors your friend will like. 

11. Creatively-Made Food (A Few Dollars): Everyone loves food, right?  Make a batch of fudge or cookies.  Give peppermint sticks and hot chocolate.  Give a fruit bouquet.  Make a pie.  How about chocolate-covered strawberries?  There are so many different things to choose from. 

12. Cute Bowl and Ice Cream Toppings ($5-10): There are so many inexpensive cute bowls to choose from at Walmart, Target, Kohl's, and even your local thrift store.  Pick something cute and colorful and fill it with things like packets of: ground peppermint, chocolate chips, sprinkles, and even syrups. 

13. Favorite Devotional Book ($0-20): Is there a devotional book you read every night that you absolutely adore?  Give away your own copy with a note inside or go out and purchase a new one for your friend.  A few I love are Jesus Calling, Extreme Devotion, His Princess, and Crazy Love. 

14. Christian T-Shirt ($5-20): Christian stores like Mardel and Lifeway constantly have awesome Christian t-shirts on sale for a few dollars... and everyone loves t-shirts.  I frequently give away t-shirts as Christmas gifts. 

15. Guess Who Board Game (Less Than $1): I saw something about this and was amazed and in love... but I don't know if I'll ever have the time or the energy to create something like this.  Use an old Guess Who board game and take out all the pictures of the funny-looking characters... and replace them with photos of your family members.  This is a great game for grandparents and people who belong to big families.  It's hilarious, but time-consuming.  You'd better have pictures of everyone. 

Do you have any great Christmas gift ideas?  If so, share them in the comments below.  If you use one of my ideas, let me know!

Yikes, it's almost Christmas and if you're like me, you tend to wait last minute to purchase (or make) gifts.  As a typical college student, I don't have a lot of money (or time) to spend on gifts, so I thought I'd share a few last minute gift ideas over the next week.  All of my gifts are under twenty dollars... and most of them are under ten dollars.  A few are homemade.  Check these out. 

1. Socks ($1-5): Socks are inexpensive, cute, and can be a great gift for a friend or family member.  Go to Walmart or Walgreene's and buy a pair of fuzzy or colorful socks for only a couple of dollars.  Forever 21 sells each pair of adorable socks for only 99 cents.

2. Homemade Calendar ($17.99-21.99): I love making homemade calendars with pictures of me and and my friends.  I make a couple of calendars every single year.  Shutterfly offers two different kinds of calendars: a desk calendar or a wall calendar.  It's totally worth the cost and very high quality.  I love Shutterfly.

3. A Book You Love ($0-20): The cost of this gift is really up to you.  If your book is hardly-used, wrap that up and give it to your friend.  Order the book off of Amazon or try to find it used or on sale at a book store.  When you share a book you love with your friend, you're giving something thoughtful and inexpensive at the same time. 

4. Framed Photo ($5-20): Print out a cute picture of you and your friend or family member and then go to your local craft store like Hobby Lobby or Michael's or even Target.  They sell so many different options of picture frames in varying price ranges.  You can be creative and purchase a plain black or wooden frame and decorate it later with buttons, puzzle pieces, and ribbons... or you can find one of the many cute and classy frames they already offer. 

5. A Flower ($2-15): Go to your local greenhouse or even Walmart and purchase a little flower in a pot.  It can be small and simple, but a flower is such a day-brightener. 

6. Two Movie Tickets (Around $10): This can be a gift of sorts to yourself as well.  Purchase two movie tickets for an upcoming movie that you and your friend want to see... or purchase a giftcard to your local cinema.  You can go together and have a blast. 

7. Cute Magnets ($1-10): Expect to see a blog post about this sometime in the future, but in the meanwhile, here are a few ideas: Glue buttons to magnets.  Glue puzzle pieces to magnets.  Glue fake flowers to magnets.  Glue polished stones to magnets.  Glue Scrabble pieces to magnets.

8. Journal ($1-5): A journal is always a handy little gift because everyone can make use for one.  Just about wherever you go, you can find a cute journal for sale.  Mardel has some great ones out right now.

9. Pillow Pet ($20): Most people will love a cuddly stuffed animal.  Pillow Pets are adorable and come in all shapes and sizes. 

10. Scarf ($5-15): Scarves work for most girls and some guys and are fantastic inexpensive Christmas gifts.  Keep an eye out for cute scarves on sale. 

11. Ticket Stub Diary ($10 plus shipping): You can make one of these or purchase one from here for a fairly inexpensive price.  My mom got me one of these a few years back and I've saved the ticket stub from every movie I've watched since then. 

12. Watch ($5+): Everyone can use a watch.  Most stores have them available.  For girls, right now colorful, rubber (and often inexpensive) watches are trending. 

13. Planner ($10-15): This is the time of year when people are getting ready to go shop for a new planner.  Target has some great purse-sized planners you could get for a friend, mother, or grandmother.

14. Blanket ($10+): EVERYONE loves blankets.  Target sells some great inexpensive fuzzy blankets in great colors.  BedBathandBeyond also has some great blankets for sale right now.

15. Letter Box ($.50-5): I love these.  I made one for myself, in fact.  For someone who loves to give and receive letters, a letter box can be the perfect thing.  Go to a local craft store and purchase a black or white letter box for less than a dollar.  You can decorate it with ribbons, stickers, and stick a letter inside.  Ali made a letter box for my mom out of wood and fabric. 

Do you have any gift ideas you'd like to share?  Leave your thoughts in the comments below.  And if you used one of my ideas, let me know!  :)

Day 23: Someone you miss

It's finals week and I am exhausted.  I had two finals today: one at 7:45 in the morning and one at 10:15.  So tiring!  I have one more tomorrow and then I'll be finished with my first semester of college.  Hooray! 

Right now, I miss so many people.  I've been away from home since my birthday in mid-October, so I'm craving some family time right now.  Also, I'm really, really, really missing my friends.  Here's a list of SOME of my friends I'm missing so much right now.

Rebekah, my love, my fellow-Lost-fanatic, my partner in pranking, my former next door neighbor...

Zeek, the tallest and most talented and funniest person I know!

Muber... without him, who do I have to torment?!

Brently, one of the sweetest and most Christlike people I know.

And of course I desperately miss Ali, who I haven't seen since October as well.  Sadly, Ali has to work, so I won't see her for another week and a half!  But soon.  We will be together again soon.

Only two more days and I will be HOME.

Do you know what's different from the last time I went home?  This time, I'll really, really, really, really, reallllllly miss my friends here in college too.  When I come back in January, I'll have something to look forward to.

Day 19: Five words that make you laugh.

1.) Bubble.  Why?  I don't know.  It just makes me laugh.

2.) Onomatopoeia.  Because for a word that means a word that sounds like what it is (this sentence is making no sense), onomatopoeia doesn't really sound like anything, does it?

3.) Discombobulate.  I've always enjoyed this word.

4.) Typhoon.  It's just awesome sounding.

5.) Smock.  Again, it's just weird. 

Day 16: Three fears.

I don't have time to write today.  I would appreciate your prayers, as this is an incredibly stressful and overwhelming week for me.  Finals don't begin until next Friday, but I am finishing my last classes over the next few days, which means I am turning in final projects and taking my last tests.  A lot of work to do today, tomorrow, and up until Thursday.  (And then on Friday, my first final begins.  Oh, joy!) 

In the meanwhile, here are three of my worst fears:

1.  Sharks.  I don't know why.  I know it doesn't make sense.  Sharks are my worst fear in the entire world.  I can't even bring myself to look at photographs of them without my heart racing and a sickening feeling overwhelming me.  I hate sharks.  If you could pick the death I would want the least, it would be by shark, simply because of the sheer terror involved.

2.  Looking at myself in the mirror in the dark.  Am I the only one who is creeped out by this?  If I'm in a dark room and I catch a glimpse of my face in the mirror, I always feel a little startled and a bit frightened.  It isn't a terrifying moment... it's just a little scary.  Maybe I'm insane.

3.  Schizophrenia.  The idea of hearing voices and having paranoia and being insane scares me.

Thankfully, as silly or as real as these fears might be, I have One who I can turn to for peace.

Psalm 27:1

"The Lord is my light and my salvation--whom shall I fear?  The Lord is the stronghold of my life--of whom shall I be afraid?

Day 12 and 13: Attempt to describe your personality... and a baby picture.

The internet at the ranch went out entirely yesterday, so I was unable to blog.  However, I was able to spend time with my family, so the day was a great day.  I'm back in Aggieland now, somewhat ready to survive the next two weeks of studying and finals. 

I thought I'd go ahead and knock out both yesterday and today's blogging challenge in one post.  Here's a baby picture:

I don't think I can accurately describe my own personality, but I'll give it a go.

• I revel in solitude, but crave people if I'm alone for too long. 
• According to Ali, I pretend to be tougher than I am, emotionally not physically. 
• I scare easily, often jumping to the worst conclusions if there is a bind, but scary movies rarely scare me at all.  In fact, I love horror movies. 
• I love to read, but I don't read nearly as much as I once did. 
• I used to be incredibly shy, but I'm not shy much at all these days.  I'm quiet sometimes, but I wouldn't say shy. 
• I'm passionate about many, many things, although in day-to-day decision-making, I tend to be unruffled and easy-going. 
• I'd much rather have a friend pick out where we're going to eat than have to make the decision myself and potentially disappoint someone. 
• I like to do well when I attempt something. 
• I'm often teased by acquaintances for smiling too much, but I like smiling. 
• Physical touch is the last of my love languages.  I can easily go days without being touched and not notice. 
• It's difficult for me to give every part of my life to the Lord sometimes.  It feels like leaping off the side of a swimming pool to your daddy's waiting arms... in total darkness.  I have no idea where I'm going, but I feel confident that He's got me. 
• I have more guy friends than I do girl friends--our personalities work well together, I suppose--but my friendships with girls tend to be closest.
• I'm often incredibly oblivious to things going on around me.  However, I'm usually "in the loop." ;)
• I love warm weather and rain.
• I'm a picture hoarder.  I love photographs. 

And that's all I can think of right now.  I'm sorry if that was a lame list, but it really is quite difficult to attempt to describe your own personality.  Try for yourself.

Day 11: Five pet peeves.

I don't have a lot to post today, but I'm spending the weekend at a ranch with little internet with my family.  I love Thanksgiving. :)

1. Gum.  The smell of gum (unless it's mint), the look of gum, the sound of smacking gum, the texture of gum, the taste of gum... pretty much anything that has to do with gum disgusts me.  If you're chewing gum, please don't show it to me after you've put it in your mouth.

2. Abbreviating several words in a sentence.  I've noticed a lot of girls in college saying things like, "OMG! (Actually spelling out the letters.) That's totes presh."  No.  Just no. 

3. Constantly insulting oneself. A pet peeve of mine is when someone is constantly saying things like, "I'm so ugly.  I'm so dumb.  I'm so fat," almost as if to try to squeeze compliments from those around them. 

4. Taking the Lord's Name in vain.  I physically cringe every time I hear someone say, "Oh my ---!" or God's Name paired with a swear word.  It breaks my heart and it hurts my ears. 

5. Text talk.  Other than gum, this is one of my biggest pet peeves.  Whenever someone abbreviates words in texts or on Facebook, saying things like, "wuts happenin" or "hru?", I want to send them a dictionary in the mail. 

Day 8: Put your iPod on shuffle and list the first ten songs that play.

Okay, I'll admit I cheated a little here.  My family shares iTunes, so I have nearly ten thousand songs on my iPod, most of which I don't even know.  I do have a playlist though of all of my favorite music... and it has a lot.  So I put that on shuffle instead of my iPod.  I love sharing my music, so I'm excited to see which songs show up. 

1.) "Three Little Birds" by Bob Marley

I laughed when this song came up.  I enjoy a relaxed, beach-style of music, so several of Bob Marley's songs fit that description.  This is probably one of Bob Marley's most famous songs.  You know... "Don't worry about a thing, 'cause every little thing gonna be alright."  (To this day, this song still reminds me of the movie I AM LEGEND.)  You can listen to the song here. 

2.) "Stones Under Rushing Water" by NeedtoBreathe

I absolutely adore this song.  This is probably my favorite song by NeedtoBreathe.  It's relaxed and beautiful.  I call this my "insomnia" song and often listen to it over and over again when I'm feeling anxious and stressed out to the point of not being able to sleep.  Check it out on YouTube here... but this is a song I would most definitely recommend you add to your playlist. 

3.) "Man in the Mirror" by Michael Jackson

Yes, I am a huge fan of Michael Jackson.  "Man in the Mirror" is one of my favorite songs by him.  It's actually the song I used to help win Ali over when I was trying to convince her to like Michael Jackson.  I love its chorus.  "I'm starting with the man in the mirror. I'm asking him to change his ways. No message could have been any clearer. If you want to make the world a better place, take a look at yourself and make that change."  The music video is pretty great as well.

4.) "Dynamite" by Taio Cruz

I love this song.  It's very fun and light-hearted... and surprisingly clean for a popular song.  The music video contains some girls wearing immodest outfits, so here's a link to the song with lyrics.

5.) "Super Trouper" by Superchick

This is such a random song to have on here and it's kind of old, but I still like it, so I keep it on my playlist.  Superchick was my number one favorite band in middle school and I got the chance to meet them all a few years ago.  They were super sweet and a lot of fun.  Super Trouper is basically a song holding a friend accountable and asking them to step out of apathy and try to make a difference in the world.  "Let's go light the world up. Let's not wait until the end to be the things we wish we'd been."  My favorite lyric in the song is: "I'm sorry that I'm getting on your case, but true friends, they stab you in the face."  I love that!  Check it out here. 

6.) "You Lead" by Jamie-Grace

If you've heard of Jamie-Grace, whose first album just came out a month ago, you have probably heard her first single "Hold Me" with TobyMac.  I've been following this talented girl for a couple of years now on her YouTube channel and was so excited when she got a record contract with Gotee Records.  This song is great.  "I've got waves that are tossing me, crashing all over my beliefs, and in all sincerity, Lord, I want to be Yours. So pull me out of this mess I'm in, 'cause I know I'm wandering. Lead me soul back home again. I've always been Yours." While every single song on her album is pretty fantastic, a couple of my favorites are "With You" and "1945."  Check "You Lead" out right here.

7.) "Life is Good" by Stellar Kart

Okay, to be honest... I can't stand Stellar Kart.  Yes, I saw them in concert and even met them and they were nice guys.  Yes, I have tried to listen to a full album.  No, I still don't like their music.  This is the only song by them that I enjoy... and it's so fun.  "Life is good. Eternal life is better" is basically the entire song.  But it's fun.  I'll give it that.  Here's the song.

8.) "Someone Like You" by ADELE

I adore this song.  It's so beautiful... Ali and I lip-synced to it on a silly video on my YouTube channel.  It's one of my favorite songs right now and I'd really like to play it on the piano.  Adele is a fantastic secular artist.  Here's the song.  I also like Sam Tsui's version, which you can check out here. 

9.) "Cannons" by Phil Wickham

Phil Wickham is great.  I got the chance to see him a couple of different times in concert.  He has written some great songs like "Divine Romance" and "Mystery," but "Cannons" is another amazing worship song.  "You are holy, great, and mighty. The moon and the stars declare who You are. I'm so unworthy but still You love me. Forever my heart will sing of how great You are." Check the song out here. 

10.) "Thoughts of You" by Barlowgirl

I'm not a big fan of Barlowgirl like I once was, but a few of their old songs still make it to my playlist.  This is one of them.  "Thoughts of You" is one of my very favorite worship songs.  I think it's stunning and often describes exactly how I feel when I'm in prayer.  Here are some of the lyrics: "God, I never could repay You. You gave everything. Without You, where would I be? You still loved me even when I pushed You away. You stood there and waited 'til the day I returned. So even though I've tried to express my thanks, it never comes out how I hoped. I want to say so much more, so with these simple words, I'll try. I love You. My heart is Yours, only Yours. I long to give You all of me, my everything, my everything."  Beautiful, right?  Check it out here.

What ten songs came up on your shuffle?

Day 5: Five ways to win your heart.

These things aren't in any particular order other than number one, which is in fact my number one.

Honestly, I felt a little weird posting this because I'm afraid that guys who know me personally are going to read this and be paranoid now.  However, while these may all be things I find attractive in guys, just because a guy has this quality, it doesn't mean I am automatically crushing on him.  But these are all things that I'm sure will help to win my heart one day, if other things work out as well. :)

Having an obvious love for the Lord.  I love to meet guys who genuinely love the Lord with everything in them.  The guy I end up dating (or even marrying) needs to be in love with Christ more than with anything else in the world.  I love to see guys stand up for their faith and talk about the Lord. 

Making me feel safe.  I tend to worry a lot, even though I try not to, so when a guy can make me feel safe and protected, I feel automatically so much more comfortable around him. 

Loving music.  I love music.  I love talking about music and being shown new music.

Having a conversation.  I love it when a guy will sit down and have a sincere conversation with me.  Since my love language is quality time (and yes, I know I mentioned this yesterday), just talking sometimes can really win my heart.

Being respectful of my friends (and his mama!).  A couple of years ago, a guy reallllly liked me.  At first, I thought he was very sweet... and then two qualities about him turned me off entirely.  He wasn't very nice to my best friend.  He didn't like to hang around her and he often subtly insulted her to her face... for no reason at all.  And then twice I heard him talking on the phone to his mom, and he disrespected her with every word that came out of his mouth, often openly defying what she was asking him to do.  Although this guy was incredibly sweet and respectful to me and my mom, I could never stand him because of the way he treated my best friend and his mom.  Respect is so, so important to me... and not only when it's directed towards me.

So yeah, this is my list of five ways to win my heart.  It only took me about five minutes to write.  :)  These qualities are so important to me and they're definitely things I look for in a guy.

What are five ways to win your heart? 

Day 4: Five qualities you think are important in a friendship.

I think each person has different qualities they think are most important in their friendships, but here are mine.  I consider these for my closest friendships.  These qualities are in no particular order. 

Time Together.  My love language is quality time, so probably the most important thing to me in a friendship is if we spend time together.  The more time we spend with each other, the more I feel close to my friends.  I love quality time.  If we only see each other once or twice a month, then our friendship probably won't be as close as it is when we see each other a few times a week.

Honesty.  I seek out honesty in my friends.  It's a quality I love.  The more I think about it, the more I realize how many "brutally honest" friends I have... Rebekah, Ali, and now Stephanie.  I love it.  With Stephanie, for example, you always know where you stand in her eyes.  She will hold you accountable in your life and expect for you to do the same for her.  She will always stand up for you to others.  She's very honest and very bold.  I admire and respect that so much.

Joy.  I think joy is one of the best qualities to have within a friendship.  After I re-found my faith in the Lord, I sought out friends who would encourage me rather than bring me down.  When you are around someone who is joyful, it shows in the way they act and in the things they say.  I look for friends who enjoy life and have joy that only the Lord can give them.  Of course, we might not always be happy, but joy always outshines day-to-day problems.

Love for the Lord.  I seek out friends who are eager to talk about faith with me, who are accountability and encouragement during hard times.  So often when I am struggling in my faith, my friends are the ones who bring me out of that doubt and encourage me to turn my eyes back on the Lord.  I try to do the same for them.  Of course, I do have friends who aren't believers and who don't share this love, but this is a quality I seek out in my closest friends.

Love for taking pictures.  Okay, this is the silliest one I have, but since the top four were very important, I thought I'd add this last one almost as a joke.  It's not so much that I want my friends to love taking pictures... but I love friends who don't mind posing in them, since I tend to take pictures of everything.  And if they do like to be the one who actually takes pictures, I'm fine with that too.  Once after I had fairly recently become friends with Stephanie, she said one night, "We should take some pictures and then you can put them on your blog!"  I was in heaven. ;)  Yes, this is silly... but I do love capturing memories with a camera.

Most of all, I love my friends for who they are.  I do seek out certain qualities in my friendships, but what I've found is that the Lord tends to bring us together without me having to search for certain kinds of people.  I love my friends so much.

What qualities do you look for in a friendship?

Here are fifteen facts about me:

1. I want to learn ASL (American Sign Language).  I've been working on it like crazy lately and I've learned a lot, but I still have a long ways to go.

2. I absolutely hate talking on the phone.  For some reason, it feels awkward and boring to me.  Strangely enough, I would rather talk through writing than over the phone.  Of course, face-to-face and Skype video chats are by far the best.  But if I had to choose between a phone call and an instant message conversation, I would probably pick the instant message conversation.  When I have a long phone conversation, I can't keep focus.  I just don't like it.  At all.

3. Black is my favorite color.  I used to be embarrassed to admit it, but I'm not anymore.  I don't see why black has to be considered dark or depressing or angry.  Black can be beautiful.  My favorite design is black and white... or black with most colors.  It's so sharp and eye-catching.  I honestly love that color.

4.  A dream of mine is to write a novel from the perspective of a serial killer one day.  Seriously.  I think about this often.  One day I hope to achieve this dream.

5. I am incredibly short, but I don't mind it. 

6. My dream career as of right now would be blogging about my life (and actually making money) or becoming a successful novelist.  Either that or some sort of career where I could travel the world assisting those in third world countries and write about my experiences in my spare time.  Any of those would work. :)

7. I love writing letters.  Since I've been at college, sometimes I'll write four or five letters in a week.  There's something about letter-writing (and receiving letters) that brings me so much joy.  I cherish all of the letters I receive and keep them in scrapbooks and in a memory box.  (The way a guy will win my heart is by writing me letters, I hope.)  Despite all of this, I'm not very good at writing birthday cards.

8. I am shy, so people tend to be shocked when I say something brutally honest.  Just because I don't enjoy confrontation doesn't mean I'm too afraid to confront someone with what I believe. 

9. I often purposely decide to wear a Christian t-shirt if I am having a rough day.  This helps to remind me that I am a witness in everything I do.  When wearing a Christian t-shirt, I'm reminded to smile at people who pass by and to do kind things to others.  Some days I just want to let my self-centeredness win, but that isn't who I'm meant to be.

10. I love quotes.  I look them up all the time.

11. My heart wanders to Africa quite often.  I visited Kenya when I was sixteen and I haven't been able to stop thinking about it since.  I would do almost anything to go back.  I'd love to move to Kenya for a year or two after college.  We'll see.

12. Although I believe I'm pretty friendly, it can be hard for me to make friends.  I'm shy, so while I have a lot of casual friends, it's hard for me to open up to someone enough to let them into my inner circle.  I think this is why making friends at college was so difficult at first.

13. I dislike dressing up immensely.  I'm much happier if I'm wearing a comfortable pair of jeans or cargo shorts and a t-shirt.  Some girls I know feel most confident when they're wearing something cute... I feel confident when I'm wearing something comfortable.  I like to look casual.

14. I may be the only one I know who brought a bookshelf filled with books to college.  Yeah...

15. Despite all of the controversy, I adore Netflix.  For the last year, I have gone through shows on Netflix like crazy.  At home, my mom (or brother) and I would pick a show and then go through the series episode by episode, watching one or two episodes each day before bed until the entire series was over.  So far, I've gone through Monk, Pysch, Lost, Switched at Birth, and now I'm working on The Office.  This is much more entertaining than normal television, where I have to wait a week in between each episode. 

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What are fifteen interesting things about you?

Today I am borrowing a questionairre from my mom's blog at Optimist by Choice.  If you haven't checked my mom's blog, go look at it now!  She posts something new every couple of days and shares a lot of great pictures of my family and home (and pets!).

1. How often do you go over the speed limit?

I try not to speed... ever.  I have before, I'll admit, but I've come to the realization that when I purposely speed, I'm deliberately disobeying the law and the Bible tells me in Romans 13 to obey my authorities.  So I rarely speed these days.  (And even if I didn't have this conviction, I live in a college town where cops lurk EVERYWHERE.)

2. Do you dance like crazy when no one is looking?

Not very often.  I know that makes me sound totally not fun, but I'm not much of a dancer and I'm not very hyper.  However, there are the occasional moments when I'll let loose and dance a little.  But usually I'll just sing. ;)

3. If you were going to be stuck on a desert island, which book, which movie, and which CD would you take with you?

If I couldn't take the Bible, I would probably take "Saint" by Ted Dekker because that's been my favorite book lately.  I would take "The Truman Show" because that's my favorite movie and I could watch it over and over again.  I would take... a mix CD.  Does that count?  On the mix CD would be all of my favorite songs.  If not, it would probably be Colbie Caillat because she makes good island music.

4. What did you get in trouble for when you were a kid?

I fought with my little sister Amy quite a bit.  I didn't get in trouble very often... I was that child who wanted desperately to be well-liked by adults, but when I did get in trouble, it was usually because of fighting with my sister.

5. What really gives you the creeps?

Deep water.  The ocean scares me to death.

6. What was your favorite toy when you were a kid?

Hmm, I really loved "Bear."  He was this stuffed bear that I originally purchased with my mommy to keep me from being so afraid of the dark.  I took him with me to a lot of places and even though I didn't necessarily play with him a lot, he was my companion and I remember him the most out of all of my toys.  Original name, right?

7. You run into a friend while shopping.  Where are you?

Forever 21.  My favorite store.

8. When you fall asleep, are you usually on your side, your stomach, or your back?

My left side.  Always.

9. If fat or calorie intake wasn't an issue, what one food would you eat the most?

Chips and queso.  I'm addicted to Mexican food.  Tex-Mex, at least.

10. If you could hire one of the following, which one would it be?  Driver, chef, maid, or stylist?

A driver.  I hate driving and I would love it if I had someone to drive me around everywhere.  I actually have weekly maid service (and people who cook for us) at the dorm where I'm living now, and although those things are great luxuries, I could survive without them... but a driver would be amazing.  <3

11. What movie have you watched the most?

"Pirates of the Caribbean."  I've watched the first movie in that series at least twenty times.  At least.

12. What kind of perfume do you wear?

I'm very, very picky.  I wear two different kinds: Cherry Blossom from Bath & Body Works and "beyond paradise" from Estee Lauder.  I love them so much.

13. What was your favorite sitcom growing up?

Probably "Fresh Prince of Bel-Air."

14. What were you doing the last time you had a really good laugh?

I was at a corn maze with Rebecca, Stephanie, and Ali.  It was so much fun.

15. What was the very first concert you ever attended?

I think it was "Plus One."  If you don't remember them, you should look them up.  They're like the Christian versions of N*SYNC.  I used to adore their song "My Life."  I remember being afraid of the loud music and plugging my ears, hugging "Bear," and trying to read a book.  I was so cool as a little kid... not.

16. Who is the fourth person on your missed call list?

At the time I'm writing this, I actually only have one person on my missed call list (an unknown caller from Arlington, Texas, wherever that is) because I just got a new phone. 

17. How long does it take you to get ready in the mornings?

About forty-five minutes, including breakfast and checking my Facebook and blog comments. :)

18. When is the last time you went to the mall and what did you buy?

On October 22... I actually didn't buy anything.  My friends and I just went to the Puppy Store to hold puppies!  They had Yorkies... eek!

19. Ever go to camp?

I've gone to Camp Electric, been a counselor at Angel Tree Camp for three years, and Impact Camp before I started college.

20. Do you collect anything?

Movie tickets.  Ted Dekker books.  Souvenirs from all of the countries I've visited.  And dead cats.  (Kidding on the last one.)

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If you enjoyed this survey and want to take it on your own blog, be sure to leave a link in the comments so I can read along!  And if you want to read my mom's answers, check them out here. 

One of the most important ways to keep good grades as a college student is to stay organized.  When you have little time, run on little sleep, and live in a little dorm room, organization can be much more difficult than it was back home.

Here are five things that have helped me to stay organized over the past few months.  They have been life-savers to me and I hope they can help you out too.  If you are in high school, you can begin to use these tricks early on and form a habit.  If you graduated college already, perhaps a few of these tips can help you to stay organized in your day-to-day life.  They've helped me out a lot.

1.) A Daily Planner

A planner is absolutely essential for keeping up with your assignments.  Do not use a pocket-sized planner.  Purchase a notebook-sized planner and keep it in your backpack so you'll have room to write down all of your assignments.  (If you use a planner on your smart phone, that could work too, although I prefer something on paper.)  As soon as you get your syllabuses for your classes (they probably will contain your class assignments somewhere on them) , copy them to your planner so you won't have to keep up with four or five different papers each day.

Use symbols to catch your eye, such as a star for tests, bullet points for projects, and diamonds for reading assignments.  These will help you to know at a glance what you have coming up in the following weeks.  Of course, be sure to write these symbols next to the actual assignment.  The symbols are only to keep you aware of what's going on at first glance.

It may take a while to get the hang of your planner if you haven't used one before, but use it frequently.  Having all of your upcoming assignments and appointments in one place is incredibly helpful.

I got the planner to your right at Target for only a few dollars.  I love the design. 

2.) Post-It Notes

I probably go through at least two packages of Post-It notes a month.  Purchase several different sizes and colors before the semester begins. 

I use small Post-It notes to make notes with the date in which I studied a certain topic and completed individual worksheets in a packet.  This way, when I go back to study before an exam, I can study by date and refresh my memory on the things I learned a while back.  I use colorful, regular-sized Post-It notes to mark different class subjects in one notebook or to show what I studied before each test (which ultimately helps with the final exam).  Larger Post-It notes can be used to remind myself of appointments, assignments, and errands I need to run.

I also tend to use Post-It notes for little day-to-day things, like leaving a note for my suite mates when I haven't seen them face-to-face in a while or when I'm trying to memorize a Bible verse. 

You can get Post-It notes just about anywhere: Walmart, Office Max, Walgreens, Target... they're very inexpensive and come in all shapes, sizes, and colors!

3.) File Holder

Okay, I feel like a dork saying this, but I'm not exactly sure what this item is actually called.  I do use it on a daily basis, however.  This is basically a portable file cabinet and I've reserved a file for all of my classes.  I keep homework worksheets, notes, handouts, and take-home tests in this file holder so I will not accidentally leave them behind in my dorm room or lose them. 

The concept is fairly simple: once you finish using a class paper, put it back in the file holder behind its right tab and then take the file holder with you to your classes.  No more losing papers, leaving them behind in your dorm room, or mixing them up with the wrong classes.  This file holder has helped me a lot with organization and I use it all the time.

I also use a file drawer back in my dorm room for papers that deal with my enrollment, tuition, and things like that.  It is also a handy thing if you are trying to stay organized.

I got the file holder above from Target a few years ago.  It's lasted me a long time and came with several paper tabs, so I could replace them after I took several different classes.  The file holder to your right is from The Container Store.  Its design is adorable and you can choose the color of your files.  How fun!

4.) Multiple Backpacks

Yes, I use more than one backpack.  I generally use three backpacks.  One backpack I use during the mornings on Mondays and Wednesdays for my hardest class, math.  It carries my looseleaf paper, a calculator, and the HUGE work packet that comes with the class.  The next backpack I take to class on Mondays and Wednesdays during the afternoon.  This carries my literature books, my notebooks, and my health book.  My final backpack I take to school on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  It holds my notebooks, ASL text books, and Government text book.

Using more than one backpack can help you keep your books organized.  This way, you never have to take your books out and stack them to the side when you aren't using them... and you won't forget to pack a certain book when you go to class.  And if you decide to leave for the library to study, you'll know which backpack to bring.

Using three backpacks has helped me keep my books organized.  The only things that I switch out consistently between backpacks are my file holder and my daily planner.

I've collected the backpacks over time... one is Vera Bradley and a gift from my grandma, one is Swiss Army brand and I got for graduation, and one is Magellan and I got it for my birthday from my parents.

5.) Lists

You might not be a list person.  I am.  Almost every day, right before my first class begins, I make a list titled "Things to Do Today" and sometimes I'll put the date next to the title.  I'll then begin to list out everything I'd like to accomplish for the day, like...

1. Laundry

2. Math homework

3. Test corrections

4. Study for Gov test

5. Meet Stephanie @ 2:30

6. Grab milk from store

7. Clean out Charlie's bowl

See?  I write out the list on a piece of paper, fold it up, and put it in my purse.  I then carry it around throughout the day and each time I accomplish something from the list, I cross it off.  During the weekends, I only make one list for all three days.  The Thursday before, I'll make a long list of everything I need to do over the weekend. 

When I make a list for the day, I feel like I have set goals for myself and I now have expectations for the day, so I know what needs to be done before I can relax.  This helps me organize my time, keep a clear head, and then feel accomplished after I look at a list that's been completely checked off. 

But then again, I'm a list person. :)

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What helps to keep you organized?

Today is another guest post from my sister Ali, who was sweet enough to share about her experience at a private Christian university.  Be sure to check out her blog at Big Hair Ali.

1. Are you having trouble finding a church home?

No, God was gracious in pointing me to the right one immediately!  YAY!

2. Have you made any good friends in college yet?

I have made a lot of good friends.  Making really close friends takes a while, so [I haven't made] too many close friends.  But I did find Jordan and I can see myself keeping in touch with her until we are old and gray.

3. What do you think of people who act like they're very close friends even if they've only met each other recently in college?

I think they are just trying to find close friends fast.  I think it works to open people up fast.  But in order to become REAL CLOSE friends, time is needed.

4. What is the best way you keep in contact with friends and family?

Honestly, I have been failing in this area.  I am not a phone person and I usually am not on my computer much, so this has been hard for me.  I am not sure I can offer very much advice.  I guess you need to make it a MUST!

5. Is college easier or harder than you expected?  In what ways?

I think college is harder than I expected.  Not necessarily the courses, but being away from loved ones.  This has been tough.  Growing up is HARD, but I guess everyone needs to.  I just did not realize I would have such a hard time growing up.

6. What is your favorite part of college?

My favorite part of college is learning new things.  Even though sometimes I do not like the way I learn things, it is actually my favorite part because I know I am growing.

7. What is your least favorite part of college?

My least favorite part is being away from people that are dear and near to me.  I MISS them!  The next thing is the FOOD!

8. How did you choose the college you're going to out of so many to choose from?

I have always wanted to attend [my university].  I decided that maybe God had put that in my heart, so I decided to pursue it.  If doors did not open, then He had other plans, but if they did, then they would be clearly open, because looking at my chances of attending [that school] without faith were small.  They opened.  God wanted me here!

9. How is a Christian university the same or different from a Christian high school?

Well, in a lot of things, it is the same, like praying, and you do not hear ugly things, and you are in the minority if you act rebellious or break the laws.  However, it is different because most people pay for a Christian education [because they] actually want one, not because their parents are forcing them to go there.  There are a few exceptions though.

10. Has it been hard to adjust to college?

It definitely has been hard, but I know that I can do [it] through the strength of Christ and that He is growing me through the whole process.

11. Overall, how do you feel about college so far?

Overall, I know I am doing the right thing and I am where God wants me to be, so I am pleased.  I still have really hard days, but when I seek Him, He makes them better.  I also have really good and FUN days too though!

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If you want to thank Ali for sharing about her college experience or ask her more in-depth questions, go leave her a comment on her blog!

Today's post will be guest-written by my best friend and sister, Ali.

A few weeks ago, I answered some of your questions and wrote about what it was like to attend a big university like Texas A&M.  Ali went ahead and answered some of the same questions about her small private Christian university for those of you who are considering private school.  It was great of her to do this and I hope these questions help you out!  This will come in two parts, so be sure to keep an eye out for part two on Friday.

1. What classes are you taking?

Ali: I am taking: College Algebra, Survey of Old Testament, Introduction to Arts, World Literature I, Foundations for Excellence (a course required by my university)

2. What is your schedule like?

8:00 a.m. : Get up, get ready, do quiet time, clean room some

9:15 a.m. : Go eat breakfast

10:00 a.m. : Go to chapel

11:00 a.m. : Go to lunch

12:15-3:30 p.m. : Do homework or clean

3:30-4:45 p.m. : Work out

4:45-6:00 p.m. : Do more homework

6:00 p.m. : Go to dinner

After dinner, the rest of the night I will either to homework or hang out with Jordan [my friend] for a while and then go do homework!!  On Mondays at 7:00 at night, I do go to a Bible Study, and on Wednesdays, I do have a class at 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

3. What are your classes like?

They are hard but exciting too.  I am really enjoying learning.  I think I am enjoying it because I have good professors though that are wonderful Christian examples.

4. Are you liking your classes so far?

I am loving my classes.

5. How does your schoolwork differ from when you were in high school? 

It is very different from high school.  Because you do not go to the same classes every day, you get more time to do homework.  However, homework is more intense.

6. Are your classes harder than you thought they would be?

Some are harder.  Some are actually easier.  One class that took me by surprise was my Old Testament class.  That is actually my favorite class, but unfortunately it is my lowest grade.  It is a hard one.

7. What kind of food are you eating?

Well, DBU has all kinds of food, but not very healthy, as any other college cafeteria.  My food routine is actually quite boring: salads and sandwiches.

8. Where do you prepare food?

I do not prepare my own food.  I actually don't even have a microwave.

9. Are you enjoying the food?

Not really, but hey, I am blessed to HAVE food.

10. What was moving in like?  Like was it really crowded and stuff?

At first it was chaos, but then it got a lot better.  I actually feel really organized in a room that is as big as a master bathroom with two other girls.

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Thanks for answering these questions, Ali!

(If you'd like to let Ali know her questions helped you out or you have a more specific question for her, leave a comment on her blog at Big Hair Ali.)

Day 8: 3 Things You've Learned Recently

1.) I've learned the value of relationships.  I'm an introvert by nature.  Back at home, I was often happy to spend several days alone in my room (or in my house, if my parents went out of town) with only my writings and guitar to keep me company.  Here, I get alone-time all the time and after a while, it's not fun anymore.  It's just plain lonely.  Since the closest family I have is two hours away, I've had to rely on friend-relationships, which can be difficult when you haven't made any close friends yet!

I'm finally starting to make a few close relationships.  I've really connected with a friend from Impact named Stephanie.  She's sweet, positive, and has a huge heart for the Lord.  I'm growing closer to Rebecca, who has been my friend since middle school.  And I've made a few godly guy friends who have blessed me in so many ways. 

I'll admit: it's still lonely being away from my family and most of my "usual" friends.  I don't like living hours apart from those I love.  However, without the relationships I'm making here, I don't know if I could make it through.  Close relationships are vital to happiness.  I can see now why Adam was so lonely in the Garden of Eden.

2.) I've learned that as a Christian, I'm a minority.  Never before have I heard so much cussing in casual conversations all around me.  Never before have I seen so many immodest outfits worn on a day-to-day basis.  Never before have I heard so many people mock God and the Bible and faith.  Honestly, it's broken my heart. 

As I write this, I'm wearing a t-shirt that says, "If there is no God, nothing matters.  If there is a God... (flip to the back) Nothing else matters." 

I've heard so many students say things like, "I hate church.  I don't believe in God.  The Bible is a joke."  With each angry word, they are spitting in His face.  And then I look all around me and see the pain and confusion in the faces of so many young people.  There's an emptiness in their lives that is so evident, but they just don't see it.

Where I came from, nearly everyone was a Christian.  I lived in the Bible Belt, attended a Christian school, had nearly all Christian friends, was surrounded by Christians.  And while some were Christians in name only and may have turned away from Him with their actions, they still believed in God.  They often still went to church and were part of a youth group of some sort.  Here, it's flat-out denial.  A big adjustment from where I've come from.  As a follower of Christ, I'm the minority here.  When I mention Him, I get weird (or even irritated) looks.  There is a lot of prejudice against my faith and stereotypes about who I must be. 

But you know, I'm not sad that I'm here.  In fact, I'm glad.  I'm willing to be a city on a hill and do my best to shine for Him, even if I mess up sometimes (which I know I will).  Texas A&M is a huge mission field.  There are so many students who only need a seed to be planted. 

3.) I've learned that I don't know nearly as much as I once thought I did.  A few years ago, everything was black and white to me.  I treasure knowledge and I like to know what I believe and why I believe it.  People would often come to me with questions about theology and controversial subjects and say, "What do you think about this?" because I nearly always had an opinion about it... and if I didn't, I was eager to research it and form an opinion.

After a year of confusion and emotional (and spiritual) struggles, I've finally come to realize how little I actually know.  I'm young, I'm naive, and while I might have knowledge about things, that doesn't mean I know.  I was just having a conversation with a friend the other night about how that during this difficult transition time of starting college and all that, the only thing that we can know with absolute certainty is God's unfailing love.  Life and death and earth and beauty and everything is His.  He loves us with an everlasting love... and right now, even if I'm exhausted or confused or in the midst of the struggle, I am content to let His love be enough. 

I'll still research and learn things because I do like to know what and why I believe, but above all of that, I want to place His love as what matters most.  Sometimes I'm going to have to sit back and say, "I don't know why this has to happen" or "I don't know whether this is true," but ultimately, I can look to Him and He will love me through it all.

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What are some things that you've learned recently?

Day 7: 4 Photographs that You Love

1.) Puppet

I actually didn't take this picture (obviously), but it brings a smile to my face every time I see it.  I actually have it hanging up in my room.  The location is Kenya, Africa. 

There was a soccer (or futbol) tournament at the Ring Road school.  I was watching the tournament with a big group of children.  After a while, I could tell the kids were beginning to get restless.  As a child, you can only watch soccer games for so long.  We sang some songs, played some games, and then I pulled my journal out of my bag. 

We began to play Hangman, although I renamed it "Puppet," because I wasn't sure if "hangman" would be a very good title for a children's game.  Even though the kids said they had never played before, they were great at that game.  They caught onto the words very quickly and would have played for hours if I had let them.

What I love about this picture is how many kids are swarmed around and totally focused on the game.  You can see it in their faces that they want to guess the answer.  They are so innocent and intelligent.  And I have my "teacher" face on too.  :)

2.) The Lion

This next picture was also taken in Kenya, although I was the photographer of this one.  I took it when I was at a wildlife park in Nairobi, I believe.  There were so many beautiful animals.  The lion happened to be asleep right up next to the wire fence.  I managed to poke my camera lens through the fence and capture the lion close up.  It was such a neat experience.

I love lions.  I think they're so beautiful and majestic... and of course they remind me of my experience in Africa.  Look at how wonderfully the Lord made this great cat.  She's so big.  You can tell by her giant paws and the muscles in her shoulders.  She was so big and strong and golden.  I just wanted to run up and throw my arms around her neck and hug her forever.  Her big nose is just so sweet.

I will always love this picture because when I was in Kenya, taking close up shots of the zebras and monkeys and rhinos and lions, I felt like a wildlife photographer.  Animals are so beautiful.  This was such a peaceful and gorgeous lion.

3.) My Tall, Tall Friend

This might seem like a silly picture to choose.  It's a bit blurry and taken from far away.  At first glance, there might not seem like anything remarkable about this picture, but if you look closely, you'll notice something odd... perhaps you'll notice someone doing something amazing!  This is a photograph I love, so I had to share.  The two people in this picture are two of my best guy friends, Zeek and Caleb/Muber.  This was during a service project at our school where we had to clean up a camp ground.  After we finished cleaning, we had a bit of free time to be silly and take some pictures and videos.

Now Zeek is an amazing, amazing dancer.  Because of that, he's extremely flexible... (and it helps that he's 6'6!)  He can kick very high and his legs are crazy-long, so we challenged him to touch the ceiling with one foot while keeping the other foot on the floor.  To our shock and amazement, he could do it!  Zeek loves pictures (like we all do), so he yelled, "Take a picture of me, Emily!" and tried it again.

About the same time, Muber decided he would try.  Since he's shorter than Zeek, he stood up on a ledge... and you can see how far he still had to go before his foot hit the ceiling. 

Man, Zeek is just so TALL!

4.) The Cutest Puppy in the World

I am proud to say that I am the photographer of this image.  To my eyes, this seems slightly out of focus, but that doesn't even matter because of the sheer cuteness surrounding this picture.  Although I've shared it many times on this blog, I had to share it again and include it on the list of four photographs I love.

This would be Jack, my precious Yorkie, at about seven weeks old.  Wasn't he the cutest puppy ever?  It's like a cute explosion.  Don't look for too long or your eyes might fall out of your head.  His stubby little legs, his huge eyes, his ears, his round little nose, the blue blanket... everything just worked together in the moment to create one of the cutest pictures of Jack ever.  Some of my friends called him a Pokemon dog when I posted a few pictures with his giant puppy eyes. 

I'm so proud of this picture.  Jack was the cutest ever.  I mean, come on.  How could anyone resist that fuzzy little face?

Day 6: 5 People Who Mean a Lot to You

Okay, there are so many people I can think of who mean so, so much to me, but I thought I would go ahead and list the five people in my immediate family.  I miss them so much.

1.) Dad

Daddy, I admire you more than words can describe.  When I am in a difficult situation, I often think, "What would my dad want me to do right now?"  Your wisdom and faith are so inspiring.  The fact that you've overcome every adversity in the past few years and you've still been an involved dad amazes me.  These days, fathers are often not around, and yet I've been blessed by someone like you.  You're not only "around," but you're an active and supportive part of my life.  I look up to you so much.  I'm so proud of you for being an elder at our church and a constant missionary at your job.  The way you use every opportunity given to you to reach out and invite people to church and share your faith is so encouraging and inspiring.  I am so thankful that you work hard to support us.  Thank you so much. I love spending time with you and I cannot wait to be able to wrap my arms around you again and just hug you.  I love you, Daddy. 

2.) Mom

I don't think anyone has a better mom than me.  Seriously, I talk about you all the time to my friends and the people sitting next to me on the shuttle.  You've given me guidance and support throughout my life, but you've also given me the strength and encouragement to think for myself and depart on my own adventures.  You'll always be my mommy and I'll always be your little girl, but our relationship has grown so much deeper than that alone over the last year.  We're also friends.  You're someone who I'll never be afraid to talk to and ask for advice.  I love spending time with you, whether it's at lunch or the movies or shopping.  I know I can always bare my heart to you and you'll be there with a smile and a hug and the right words to say.  The fact that you've been such a wonderful mother has encouraged me so much.  God has given you such a nurturing heart and you've blessed so many people.  You've blessed me and Amy and Luke and Ali and so many others too.  I love you so much, Mom.

3.) Ali

You have changed my life forever.  There are so many things about our relationship that I can't even put into words.  I don't think I've ever grown as close to a friend as I have with you... and now it's even better.  You're my sister.  I'm so proud and blessed to be able to say, "That's my sister."  You encourage me with your steadfast faith and positivity.  I'm so blessed to know you.  You are beautiful and strong and you have so many qualities that I admire.  Your forgiveness and your strength and your boldness and... okay, okay, the list could go on and on.  I'd better be careful or you could use this against me someday!  ;)  I love our inside jokes and our multiple mini-social-experiments.  I love staying up alllllll night with you, even though we'll know that the next day we're going to be blaming each other to the parents for making us tired.  :)  I love making videos with you.  I love stalking people on Facebook with you and hearing about your adventures at college.  I love watching corny movies with you and spraying you with a water bottle when you fall asleep (or smacking you... or pushing you over... or... okay, I should stop).  I love YOU, Ali.  I'm so blessed to be able to call you my sister.  I love you!

4.) Amy

I love you so much.  I know we've had our differences throughout our lifetimes, but one thing will never change: you are my sister and I love you.  It doesn't matter how often we spend time together or how many things we agree upon.  We are sisters.  I see beauty in both your heart and in your outer appearance.  You have such a giving and generous spirit.  I look up to you because of that.  I admire your boldness and your perseverance.  I can tell already that God has amazing, amazing plans for your life.  He's made you to be strong and brave and very stubborn.  (You might get the stubbornness from me.)  Ultimately, it won't matter how many friends you have or don't have.  It won't matter how you look or how popular you are.  When you look back on your life, the only thing that matters is Christ.  He's given us such a beautiful family.  It's so special to have you as my sister.  I love you.

5.) Luke

Lukie, you never fail to bring a smile to my face.  I admire you a lot, you know, even though you're younger than me.  Your unfaltering faith in God is so pure and wise.  I love your innocence and your sweet, sweet spirit.  I love the way you stand up for what you believe.  It warms my heart when you cover your eyes or leave the room during bad scenes on TV and in movies.  My friends often notice how sweet you are.  I think every single one of my girl friends has come up to me at one point and said, "I want to marry someone like your brother," because they see Christ through your actions.  Keep respecting girls the way you do now.  Keep standing up for the underdogs.  And keep your humility.  I know you're good at a lot of things, but always remember that the Lord should always be the One to get credit for those gifts.  There is so much in store for you, Lukie.  You're so talented and I'm so proud of you.  I love you.

And because I know you read my blog daily and we've hardly been able to talk this last month, I have to send a quick shout-out to you too, Naana.  You're my hero in so many ways.  You have a servant's heart that I admire SO MUCH.  Without you, I would have never even found City Church.  You've influenced me so much.  It was in part because of your passionate example that I've fallen in love with mission work.  When I was in Africa, I couldn't stop thinking about you and how I wished that you could see in person everything that the Lord was doing there.  I think about you all the time here too.  You've shown me Christ in so many ways.  You are one of the most giving and loving and passionate people I know.  I've missed you so much.  I love you and cannot WAIT to see you in October.