Happy Almost New Years!!

Tonight I got to hang out with some wonderful friends: Garrett, Summer, and Jason. It was so fun; we ate some great Mexican food then went up to the church. Our youth group was having a Dance, Dance Revolution party, so we thought we'd boogy down. Can I just say that I am NOT good at that game?! I did however beat my little brother in a sweet game of pool. : ) I love good friends.

New Years. Wow, what a huge responsibility to be given a new year! So many opportunities, so many chances.

I HATE New Years resolutions. I don't think they are for real. I've never seen someone successfully finish a resolution. I've even tried it: lose weight, read my bible every single day, exercise regularly, do my homework weeks ahead of time. They have never completely happened. I like to start things in August! There is no pressure to succeed in August, just sheer self-discipline and pride. August resolutions are the way to go.

Oh guess what, my cousin called today to ask me to be a bridesmaid in her wedding this June!! I'm so excited! I feel so honored!

Goodnight my friends; I love you all!!

Christen

Happy 50th Birthday to my gorgeous mother!!

Life is funny and ironic right now. I'm so unsure of some stuff, but I know that everything will work out like it's supposed to. I got to talk it over with my mom today, which was nice. *sigh* Sorry so vague.

This weekend is New Years!! I haven't had a good New Years in a very long time. I can't remember for the life of me what I did last year though. If I was with you, let me know. haha But for real, I think this year will be good. I'm getting to spend it with some wonderful friends.

Last night I reread the first year of my xangas. (I've been at this for 2 1/2 years.) It's interesting to see where life has taken me. : )

I really love your comments. Thank you!!

Christen

Have you ever told someone something that you never in your entire life intended to tell? Yeah, that happened to me tonight. hahaha!!

Christmas was fabulous. I love my family so much! We hung out, ate great food, played Shang Hi and Nerts, and exchanged presents. I got my digital camera!!!! YEAA!! I've asked for one for like 3 years and finally got one! You'll be seeing pictures soon enough. I also got Friends Season 2, Arrested Development Season 1, some perfume, an iTunes gift card, some killer jewelry, and a couple of cute hats.

Thanks for all the Christmas wishes. I love you!!

Christen

Here's a cute picture of Eli at Christmas:

I'm so frustrated right now. The first time in 3 years: I typed a really long xanga entry and then my computer froze. So...I'll try to recall what I just said.

During Christmas time I get very nostalgic. I like to think about where I was, who I was with, what I was doing from all the Christmases passed. It's even nice to think about the low times because I get to see how far I've come. For instance, yesterday I was thinking about 3 Christmases ago when I missed my family's Christmas because I was stuck in Missouri with my now ex-boyfriend. It was such a terrible time both mentally and emotionally, but I've had a chance to see how much I've grown. If I had it all to do over again, I wouldn't change a thing because I've learned so much about myself and about relationships in general.

Then there are the great times. Like last night, I got to spend some much needed time with two of my dearest friends, Mark and Ryan. I've known Mark since 4th grade and Ryan since 11th, so we had tons of memories to talk and laugh about. It was wonderful just laughing and hanging out.

Anyway, Merry Christmas to everyone who I love and care about. I hope your Christmases are wonderful. We are leaving for my grandparents' in a few minutes, so I won't be around for the next 3 days. I love you all!!

Christen

Carter Family Christmas went wonderfully!

My dad, brothers and I went to see Walk the Line today. It's such a well made movie yet so sad. What a terrible life he lead until he got saved, but I do have a new appreciation for Johnny Cash. Then, we ate some amazing steak and infamous Christmas cake. Yumm! Presents included: black slippers, gorgeous jewelry, beenie, Mean Girls, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, iTunes Gift Card, and a scarf. I love them all! Now I'm watching a movie and hanging out with my nephew...yea!!

Have you ever thought about what you completely dislike? I hate to clap. I've known this about myself for a while, but I realized last night at youth that I really, really don't like to clap. I also hate it when parents allow their babies to cry during solemn events like weddings, graduations, etc. It's a huge pet peeve. Sorry, know that was random.

Merry Christmas in 3 days!!

Christen

Garrett: my computer won't let me go to your xanga. I hope you have a Merry Christmas!!

Happy Birthday to my super cool little brother!! 14 years old!! WHOOO HOOO!!

I got to hang out with some great friends tonight: Ikea, Allison, Julie, Brandon and his fiance Chelsea. It was so great getting to see Brandon who is leaving for the Army next week. Crazy, huh?

I slept til 3 pm today! Sad, huh? I don't even know why. I went to bed at a decent hour, but I guess I was catching up.

Merry Christmas!!

Christen

Life is so wonderful right now...almost hard to describe. Being home has been nice: time with friends, movies, wrapping presents, hanging out with my nephew. I love it.

I love Christmas time. Tomorrow Mom and I are going shopping then Mark, Sheila and Eli are coming into town on Tuesday for a whole week!! We're going to my grandparents' on Saturday for Christmas. I love my family, and I'm so excited.

I had nothing of substance to say, huh? Haha!! Sorry loyal xanga readers.

Christen

Christmas Break!!

Ground Rules: Type 5 weird habits of yourself. Then tag some friends! They have to post the rules on their site and state their 5 weird habits. Have fun!!

1) After I listen to a CD long enough to know all the words, I make up human videos in my head for each song.

2) I do not talk the first hour that I am awake. You may talk to me all you want, but I will not respond.

3) I HATE having lotion on my hands. I will put lotion on my legs then go wash my hands so that it's off my hands.

4) I sleep in the same position every night: on my right side facing my body pillow with my knees pulled up into the pillow; my forehead touches the pillow and the covers are up over my head so there's a little pocket of air between my face and the pillow. : )

5) I have to read something before I go to sleep, be it People magazine, a book, a letter...anything

This game has been circulated amongst my Master's friends, so I'm taking it to the GU and L-town. I tag Angie May, Melissa Hall, Garrett Goode, and Lindsey Taylor.

_________________________________________

It's over!! It's over!! I'm currently sitting in Longview looking at the beautiful Christmas tree! Ahh! I love no stress!

Well, the semester ended well. I made A, A, A, A, B. I was disappointed with the B because it was definitely preventable. I was just lazy. Oh well, I'm just so glad this semester is over.

Christen

My two finals Friday went okay. Both were a lot harder than I expected. Here's hoping for the A. I have two more Monday then I'm THROUGH!! I head back to Longview on Tuesday for a ton of rest and relaxation.

How excited are you that I figured out how to post pics from Photobucket? Yeah, I may have had xanga for 3 years, but I sure did not figure out the picture thing til this week. : )

Here's little Eli at 2 1/2 weeks:


Sheila, Eli and Me:


My roommates!! Jeanene, Shelby and Me (Karissa was there in spirit...haha)


I love you, friends!! And Merry Christmas!!

Christen

Had my first exam today. It was pretty easy. Why couldn't it have been tomorrow or Monday? I'm going to be slammed tomorrow and Monday. ahhh!! Tomorrow I have Intro to Psych and Intro to Theology (yeah, they are supposed to be intro classes, but I have the hardest/best teachers possible).

I got to see Eli today!! Mark and Sheila were up here for a meeting, so I got to hold my precious little nephew!! Photobucket's down, so I'll post pics later.

Good luck on finals, in love, and in life.

Christen

I know it's going to work out because God is a big fan of me.
Jeanene Justin, roommate

Tell me you don't love that quote.  My roommates and I talk frequently about our futures, be it careers, churches, marriage, children, or even just Christmas break, as well as who we are and who we are becoming.  And we've come to the conclusion that we are great.  I mean, we're not being conceited, we're just great.  haha  We are strong, funny, happy, life-of-the-party, wise, beautiful, smart girls.  Basically, we're well-rounded, and we know it.

Also, God is so much more crazy about us than we can ever realize.  He knows what I dream about, what I hope for, and what I want, and He cares more than anything!!  "It's going to work out because God is a big fan of me!!!"

If you know me at all, you know I'm not conceited, so I hope you understand this post.  It's time to have some self-confidence and realize that you're great!!  I love you, my dear friends.

Oh, and here's another adorable picture of Eli:

Christen

Today has been wonderful: hung out with great friends, baked Christmas cookies, ate a good meal. I love the holidays and good friends!!

I have 3 days of classes and 2 days of finals left!! Can you possibly believe that this semester is over? I can't wait until Christmas break. I have full intentions of visiting several good friends during the break.

I began a challenge back in September (the one that I couldn't tell you about). Well, I'm half way through, and then I will tell you. Just know that it's going beautifully, and I think I'm going to win.

Love you, my dear friends!!

Christen

Last night was hilarious!!  My roommates and I are beyond crazy sometimes.  Regents is having a Christmas decoration contest right now so these two guys' dorms are ridiculously decorated.  Karissa, Jeanene, Shelby and I walked really slowly by the lights while pretending we were in a car.  We rolled down the windows to wave at people and everything.  Then we went Christmas caroling in front of Nathan's room.  haha!!  We got in trouble because it was quiet hour, but it was so fun!!

THEN...Kendall came over with a holiday pack of Jones' Soda.  There were five sodas in the following flavors: Turkey and gravy, lemon-herb stuffing, brussel sprouts, pumpkin pie, and cranberry sauce.  We thought, "Really, how bad can they actually be?"  Well, just imagine liquified turkey and gravy mixed with carbonated water.  Yeah.  We each took a sip and passed it around.  Shelby actually threw up, and the rest of us just spit and tried to drown out the horrible taste with water or Diet Coke.  YUCK!!

Oh, a night in the life of a college student...

Well, life with little Eli is so exciting.  I'll get you a new picture soon, but I didn't know Xanga has an upload limit each month.  *sigh*

Thanksgiving break has been wonderful.  I got to hang out with some very dear friends today and yesterday.  I could tell you all about it, but I'm sure you don't care.

Thanks for all the comments on Eli's pictures.  I'm a very proud aunt.

Well, back to Waxahachie for 2 1/2 weeks.  I really cannot believe this semester is over.  It feels like we just started last month.  This semester has definitely gone faster than any other.

I love you all!!

Christen

*EDIT* Sorry, the pictures got deleted.  Don't ask me how.

 

Here's Baby Eli!! He's gorgeous!!

You have to admit he's beautiful!! I'm sure you'll be seeing more pictures in the days to come. Thanks for all the prayers and support. I love you all!!!

John Eli is here!!!! He was born at 2:06 a.m. on November 22, 2005. He's 7 lbs 1 oz. He looks a lot like Sheila, and he's beautiful!!! He's dark complected and has brown eyes. aww!!! I'll post pics tomorrow. Right now I'm exhausted.

Christen

John Eli Carter is coming today!! Sheila got induced at 1 p.m., so it's just a matter of time now. For those of you who have waited impatiently with me, sorry for all the false alarms and raised hopes. He really has to come out today. He has no choice.

I'll post pics sometime tomorrow or late tonight, and let you know how big he is. My prediction is 8 lbs 2 oz and 21 inches. We'll see if Aunt Chris has the magic. : )

Also, you will probably see an overhaul of this here Xanga today since I have ALL the time in the world on the free wireless internet that the hospital so wonderfully offers to its waiters in the waiting room.

Soon-to-be Aunt Chris

Still no baby. I will provide you with pictures just as soon as he comes. I am in Houston again and refuse to leave until Eli comes. : )

I had a break down on Thursday. I'm not kidding. I've known for a while that I had a lot due this past week and coming week, but I thought it was all under control. Then, I spent all week in Houston, and life got a little out of control. It just hit me: HUGE test, 3 really big projects, still no baby, hardly any sleep, and some personal stuff. All that together added up to a few minutes of tears. But the good news is I did fine on the test and 2 of the 3 projects are done. hurray!!

I, my friends, am the proud new owner of a brand new iPod. No joke. My parents bought it for me for Christmas and just let me have it. : ) I'm currently putting songs on it. It's beautiful!! I got the 60 GB which holds 15,000 songs, and it's black. Oh yeah. My parents were willing to pay for the 30 GB one (which is $100 cheaper), but I forked over the extra money to have the bigger one.

Christen

*Sigh* No baby yet. I'm in Houston just hanging out and waiting on the baby. All the labor symptoms are here, but Sheila's just not having intense enough contractions. It's okay though. I like hanging out with them. Hopefully Eli will come in the next couple of days because I do have to go back to Waxahachie on Thursday. If nothing happens between now and Monday, they will induce on Monday. I can't wait.

This past weekend was so fun. A bunch of us went to my Nannie and Granddaddy's house to spend the night. I love my family and friends.

Christen

Thanksgiving countdown: 9 days

I am going to be an aunt either the 17th or 21st. The doctor is going to decide tomorrow which date is for sure!!! YEA!! I love Eli so much already. I was praying for him today and started crying. He's gonna be such a blessed kid.

This week has been the Breakthrough Conference. I had never heard of it, but it's a famous revival that travels all over the world. They are from Argentina. Anyway, classes were cancelled the last two days for the sessions, which was pretty cool. I feel like God did a lot this week.

I don't really have anything else to say. Life is somewhat mundane right now due to LOTS of homework and stress.

I am going to my Nannie's this Friday. Yippee

Christen

AHHH!!  I'm so busy!

I'm sorry I have neglected you, my faithful Xanga audience.  Life is crazy busy but very good.  I got to see Mark and Sheila last night.  Sheila's belly is HUGE.  I can't wait for Eli to come out!!  They went to the doctor today for a sonogram, and the doctor said he's between 6 1/2 and 7 pounds right now, and he'll gain a 1/2 a pound each week.  Anyway, I can't wait to be an aunt.

How are you?  Please tell me.

Christen

Hi, I love getting to come home. I own a Christmas tree and decided to come home this weekend to retrieve it so we can set it up in our dorm. yea!!

I got to hang out with Jason and Jarrod for a little bit tonight which was fantastic, and then my parents took me to Roadhouse for dinner...yum!

Next weekend I'm working the NASCAR races in Ft.Worth. This morning we had set up for the merchandise booths. It was a whole lot better than I expected. We sorted and hung like 300 shirts, plus hats and little knick-knacks (like ash trays, pens, flags, buttons, blankets, film, etc). NASCAR fans will buy anything from what I've been told.

I'm for sure graduating next December!! I got my schedule and course plan all ironned out this week. : )

Christen

And so it begins...

The holidays have begun...in my heart at least. CHRISTMAS!!!! Yeah, I know, you're thinking, "It's October 25!" Okay, you're right, but as of next week, it's November, which is definitely Christmas season!! I even saw a house tonight with Christmas lights up.

So, it began today because I busted out the Santa's Country Christmas CD. Go ahead and make fun of me, but it's my FAVORITE!! It has all the classics.

Christmas is the best time of year because it guarantees lots of family time, great decorations, and of course the giving and receiving of gifts.

I don't think you grasp how much I love Christmas. I have the best family in the world. We're huge!!! And we all gather under the same roof for like 3 or 4 days! PLUS, I'll have a baby nephew this year.

With the love of Christmas,
Christen

Sunday night, 8:24 p.m. and I still haven't been productive. I was going to spend this entire weekend doing homework. I was not only going to get caught up but get ahead. *sigh* So much for my good intentions.

Oh well, it's been seriously fun. Friday night I went to Fort Worth for the 1st time since I was like 10. It was so beautiful!! Then yesterday I went and saw Elizabethtown (if you like slightly weird movies, you'll LOVE it). Afterwards, Karissa and I rented A Lot Like Love (one of my new favorites!!!) and Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (also wonderful).

OH and Karissa showed me this exercise video with BALLET!! I love ballet, so I've done it twice since 11 pm last night!! haha

DANCE PARTY!!!!

Christen

Yea!!!  I finally successfully uploaded a picture!

  This one is from my birthday party at Olive Garden: Danae, Shelby, me, Brooke, Karissa, Heidi, and Jeanene.

This may be the ugliest picture I've ever seen, but it's hilarious.  We had a funeral for Jeanene's old tennis shoes from early high school.  Notice the tear drops I drew on each of our faces.  : )  Karissa gave us a lovely 21 gun salute.

Christen

Drama.

Tonight we celebrated the birth of Shelby Brown. We cooked hot dogs, ate birthday cake, played Pin the Tail on the Donkey, busted a pinata, and gave her some amazing compliments. Basically, she's super cool and is now 22.

After the fiesta, I watched a little baseball then got a snowcone...yum!! Then, of course, we sat on the outside couch and hung out with some great friends.

Ikey, one of my good friends from home, just called. I like him; he's great.

The new picture is me (in my new glasses) and Shelby (the homecoming queen!!!!) right before she was crowned.

Christen

I'm tired. I feel like life hasn't slowed down in weeks. *sigh*

Congrats to my ROOMIE Shelby Brown who was crowned Southwestern's Homecoming Queen today!!! It was so exciting!!!

I went home last night for baby Eli's baby shower this morning. Mark and Sheila got a ton of cool stuff. They are all set. Now if Eli would just be born!!! Yea!

Tonight was fun. I went to dinner with Shelby's brother and sister then we went to Braums. yum. I love my friends and my roomies.

Christen

This week has been crazy. I had a research paper due today that I think I did well on, and I made a 110 on a quiz that I did not do any of the reading for. : ) Tomorrow I have a Children's Lit test. It's gonna be hard, but I feel okay about it.

Hey, Nathan Hartman, if you are reading this, it's time to get a Xanga. I believe in you. (And I just gave you a shout out, so that should count for something.)

Guess what, the outdoor couch got stolen today by some no-good-dirty-rotten scoundrels. They are worthless, and I'm officially mad.

Christen

Does life ever just sneak up on you? I feel like I'm just minding my own business and....WHAM...I'm super busy. I try not to be a procrastinator, but it happens. I think I overestimate myself and how long it actually takes me to do things. Oh well, I guess that's the point of college: to completely stress you out and test your limits before sending you out into the real world. So, I'll be fine. : )

Despite busyness, I'm very good and happy. Every day my anticipation of being an aunt builds. I keep dreaming about little Eli. A few nights ago I dreamed he was a newborn, and I was holding him while he was sleeping. AWW!! He may be the cutest kid ever born. He'll be half white/ half Filipino (Asian). I can't wait. The doctor told Sheila he'd be willing to deliver anytime after Nov. 1!! That's only 3 weeks! *sigh* I'm going to be a great aunt.

Christen

Today was wonderful!!! I got to watch my little brother play basketball with his JV/8th grade team. He got to play a ton, and they won 1 of 2. It was great.

Then off to good ol' Van. We played cards (I got 4th), ate some amazing gumbo, and celebrated birthdays. I love my family so much.

So...I love the country. I can't imagine growing up anywhere different. My grandparents are currently having a lake built out on the front part of their property. It's several acres big, and they just finished it. Now they're just waiting for the rain. (The builder said an 8 in rain could fill the whole lake...I don't understand how that's true.) Anyway, I took the 4-wheeler out in the bottom of it for about half an hour. It's AMAZING and HUGE!! They left several fallen trees for the fish, and there are a million bumps from the bulldozers, so it made my trek incredible. I was flying through there jumping over stuff and skidding through the dirt. It was some of the most fun I've had in a while. hehe

Christen

P.S. I had to change my profile picture because there was some controversy about what I was holding. Earrings, sickos!!!! I was holding earrings. So, in the new picture, I am blowing out birthday candles in my my bowl of fruit. I didn't want a birthday cake, so my roommates got me an awesome bowl of fruit.

Through Facebook, I've been reading people's profiles that I went to high school with. What meaningless, empty lives they lead. I am not judging them, only evaluating the hurt I felt inside myself while reading about what is important to them. I am so sad that I did not make more of an impact during high school. I had the means and many times did not use them. But I was also overjoyed to see that some of my classmates have come back to the Lord. It's apparent, and I'm so happy.

Fall Break is going well. My family is the proud new owner of wireless internet. My dad told me this morning to go buy it and set it up, so I did. It's beautiful.

Oh, and this is cool...I got glasses today. My vision has progressively gotten worse over the last couple of years, so I took the plunge. They are so cute. Someday I'll get a picture.

Goodnight!
Christen

I sold my soul to Facebook today.  I had no idea of the world out there.  But do not fear Xanga world, I shall not abandon you.

Have I mentioned that I really, really like some of my new friends?  You know how there are people that you know but never really hang out with?  Well, this semester (through my wonderful roomie Shelby) I have had the opportunity to hang out with some really great guys: Skip, Nathan, Josh, and the Trewern boys.  So fun!!

Tonight I told Shelby and Jeanene the long, drawn out version of my relationship with my ex-boyfriend.  (By ex, I mean, we broke up 2 1/2 years ago.)  For those that knew me then, isn't it crazy that it's been almost 3 years?  How life has changed!  God is so faithful to me in the hard times and the good times.  I love knowing that everything happens for a reason, and being able to confidently say that I'd do it all over again if it meant I got to touch one more life.  God is truly good.

Christen

Today I've had such a weird feeling. I've been thinking about the wreck, and it seems so surreal. Sorry I didn't elaborate more yesterday.

Last night on the way home from the Ranger's game, we were coming through Midlothian and our driver accidently ran a red light. I saw the whole thing, which was crazy. I was sitting in the front seat and realized we weren't slowing down for the red light. The guys in the back seat said I started screaming (I don't remember screaming) at this point. I saw the oncoming SUV begin to turn right to try to avoid us, but his front left end hit the back seat passenger door intially and moved all the way up to about the mirror. I braced myself against Shelby (who was also in the front seat) and now her arm is really sore. In the impact, the back seat door's window shattered throwing the glass throughout the car. Glass was all down my shirt and pants, and I have a few bad scratches on my lower back.

Isn't it amazing how complex our minds are? I can recall about a million different things that were going through my mind immediately after the impact, like: "What if he doesn't have full coverage? How expensive is this going to be? He does not deserve this." or "Am I bleeding? I cannot get blood on Karissa's sweater." or "Oh, crap, my drink just spilled in the floorboard." or "It's 12:30; we're going to be late for curfew."

So, the police came and asked a million questions. I was in complete shock. I'd never been in a wreck before and felt so bad that it had happened to my friend who was driving. It still doesn't seem real, but we're all okay. We all have some scratches, and Shelby has a sweet bruise from the steering wheel. God really had his hand on us.

Christen

What a crazy, crazy day!

It was great...I found out I made A's on two tests this week, my reading project was a huge success, AND my computer came in the mail today!! Then, tonight Shelby and I went to Corsicana with Nathan, Josh, and Kendall. I absolutely love those guys. We went to a hunting/fishing/camping store to exchange Shelby's sleeping bag (cause her's ripped). Afterwards, we picked up Kyle and went to the Ranger's game. Of course they lost, but it was so fun. There were drunk guys in front of us who were being ridiculous. On the way home, the guys thought they saw a bowling ball and went running after it. They almost fell in a man-hole!!! Crazy!

The only bad part of the day came at the end: I was in my first wreck tonight. It was so scary, but we're all just fine. I wasn't driving, but I was still pretty shaken up. I have some scratches from broken glass, but we're okay. Pretty crazy.

Christen

I guess I should have mentioned that the new picture is from my birthday party.  I'm holding 2 pairs of dangly earrings from my roommates.  I love my roommates.

I'm extremely tired.  It's 10:30 and I'm about to get into bed.  Oh yeah, I got a subscription to People magazine for my birthday (only the coolest gift humanly possible).

Leave me comments about your first boyfriend/girlfriend.  I'll post the best story.  Here's mine:

I was in 7th grade, and on my 13th birthday, Mark Sorgee (a boy from church) asked me to be his girlfriend.  He was a freshman (ohh, ahh!).  The first weekend after we were "official" was our youth group's trip to Houston.  We were visiting our old youth pastors.  On the way, Ashley Lopez and Kory Moon kept very undiscreetly suggesting that Mark hold my hand.  We did hold hands, and I was absolutely petrified.  Then, we all went to eat at Chili's.  If you've ever been to Chili's, you've seen those booths that only seat 2 people (one on each side).  Well, Mark and I shared one side and Kory and Ashley shared the other.  We were little kids.  In the middle of the meal, my dad (trying to be funny) came over and told Mark that he had better never lay a hand on me.  I found out years later that it actually scared Mark to death.  We went out a total of 10 days.  He swears I broke up with him for another guy, but it's just not true.  We are still friends to this day.

Christen

Hello dear friends, I have good news...Mark and Sheila's house weathered the storm just fine.  Only minor damage.  Thank you for all who prayed. Those prayers were definitely answered.

For the record, I just got schooled playing cards with my family.  I don't understand how I can lose a game I've been playing since I was 10 by 400+ points.  Yes, sometimes I win, but today was not one of those times.  :)

I'm having a lovely weekend with my family.  Spring Hill won last night (whoo hoo!).  Then the electricity went out for about 6 hours today so we played cards and hung out.  It's been great.

Christen 

 

Due to the fact that I've never had 29 comments before, I failed to realize that I had a second page of comments and questions that therefore went unanswered.  I am so sorry!!!  I really had no idea.  So, let me answer the last two:

# 16: (From Garrett Goode) Will you marry me?
Oh, if only you were already out of high school...    Someday we'll see.

# 17: (From Amarisa) Do you miss the days of PK Retreat when we wrestled into the wee hours of the morning?
Oh my gosh!! YES!  However, PK Retreaters have changed so much.  They don't always like leg wrestling anymore.  Plus, I'm old and like my beauty sleep, so it's really okay.  haha!

I need to go read.  boo.  Also, my brother and his wife got evacuated today from Houston.  My dad took a U-Haul down there and took the majority of their furniture.  They live in a double wide trailor, and the possibility of it being damaged is really high.  If you think about it, just pray that their house makes it through the storm.  Love you all!!!

Christen

Birthday Countdown: 1 day!!!!!!!!!!

Here's the new post:  Leave me a question.  Any question.  Anything you've ever wanted to know about me, and I'll answer it.  I'm an open book. Concerned I won't answer, I will.  So, let the questions continue.

#1: (From Nathan Owen) What is truly the biggest God-honoring dream you have for your life?
I have been considering this lately.  I don't know really.  I don't have this single "huge" dream like most people (like to write a book, be a CEO, etc).  I guess my biggest God-honoring dream would be to be a mother and raise a family who serves the Lord.

#2: (From Holly Fuca) What's that one secret that you wouldn't dare tell anyone? (i.e.- you belt out celine dion songs when you're alone) 
Haha, umm, I love, LOVE, old school Christian groups like FFH; Phillips, Craig and Dean, etc.  Yeah, I'm a huge dork.

#3: (From my cousin Josh) Have you ever cheated when playing cards with your family?
Not only have I cheated often when playing cards with my family, but I have cheated with the assistance of the asker of this question.

#4: (From Kyle Trewern) Would you ever go out with your roomate's ex-boyfriend? (totally hypothetical, of course) *wink*
For those confused, the asker of this question is my roommate's ex-boyfriend.  And the answer would be this, I would never date any of my roommates' ex-boyfriends unless it had been a long time, she was completely okay with it, and the reasons they broke up do not affect me (like he cheated or is a liar).

#5: (From Holly, who also asked #2) Is it ok if i go out with your roomate's ex-boyfriend?
Yes, but I don't know if you'd want to.  (HAHAHAHA)

#6: (From Cassy) Is your room mates ex boyfriend to old for me?? If so then can I go out with your lil brother??   Also, while living in rockford and attending small group who was your favorire small group kid??
Yes, you may not date him.  My little brother is too young for you, but I'd probably still approve.  Gosh, that's the hardest question yet.  I'd honestly say Cassy, Ashley, Nicole, Stephanie, and Becky were tied.  I love you all!!!

#7: (From Jason Hassig) If I were to do one thing that would bring joy and happiness to your life what would that be?
Find me a boyfriend...hahaha!  Just kidding.  Uhh, buy me a flower (I love bright pink gerbera daisies).

#8: (From Sarah Hubert) Would you come visit me sometime?
Yes, absolutely, as soon as I get some money.  ;)

#9: (From Sara McKinley) Do you miss me?
Yes!!!  More than you know!

#10: (From Joni Johnson) When will you come to austin and see us?
My roomie and I were just discussing our plans to come to Austin.  She knows Jonathan Norphy real well, so she wants to see him, and I WANT TO SEE YOU!!!  We're thinking the next available weekend (2 or 3 maybe).

#11: (From Derek Reed) How bad did you wanna date me in high school?
Oh, Derek.  Honestly?  I don't remember if I wanted to date you in high school, but 8th grade?  I'd of dated you in a heart beat.

#12: (From Oscar Lloyd Jackson III) What would you do if you were a 6'8" black guy?
I would dunk a basketball, bust some sweet moves, and pick up chicks.

# 13: If you could have anything in the world for your birthday, what would you wish for? (And world peace, or everyone to know Jesus are not acceptable answers. . .I'm talking about self-indulgent materialism here. . .)
I would wish for my own house (2 bedroom would be sufficient) completely furnished by Pottery Barn with a full wardrobe of my choosing.

#14: (From Crystal Hahn) What is your favorite memory about 1st grade?
I remember having a loose tooth during reading time, and I didn't have to read because the teacher felt sorry for me.  Then in the middle of reading, it came out.  I got to leave and go see the nurse, which was awesome.

#14: (From Ashley Jones) Who is your greatest role model outside of your family and why?
My greatest role model would have to be this lady in my home church Sara Robinson.  She's this little old lady who though her health is failing is SO faithful to her family and the church family.  She still passes out bulletins, and every year she sends me a birthday card.  I hope to someday love God and people as much as she does.

#15: (From Amy Reed) What's your favorite way to aggravate mitz?
Mitzi Neely was Amy and my newspaper advisor in high school.  I was the editor.  My favorite way to aggravate Mitz was either A) to flaunt that I had a school key though completely against school policy or B) to call her Mitz.

Christen

Birthday Countdown: 3 days!!!

Tonight Jeanene and I went to West Village to study. It was awesome. I finally finished Island of the Blue Dolphins. That book is SO boring. hehe Then I walked around. Do you understand how interesting the Guiness Book of World Records is? I love weird facts. Then I drove home while pondering life with God. These ponderings included: grad school, living in Los Angeles/Chicago/New York, what I'll do someday, how much I love being alone yet how much I love being around people.

I went to church tonight, so that means I get to sleep in tomorrow!!

Christen

What a week!  It has been spiritual saturation week, and I am definitely saturated.  haha!  I'm hilarious.

This weekend should be much calmer than last.  I was going to go see the Rangers tonight, but I'm dirt poor, so instead I'm hanging out with my friends Russell and Brooke.  :)  Tomorrow is homework-catch-up day.  yippee, ugh.

I love you, Xanga world.  I'm really frustrated with some people.  I keep reading on other people's sites, "Xanga is not cool anymore."  "See, every fad dies off sometime."  I just want to state for the record that I was a Xanga devotee long before this "fad" you speak of.  Live on!

Christen

PS, can you believe I have forgotten the birthday countdown thus far?  Okay, here it goes:  4 days til my 22nd birthday!!!!!!

What a week.  Wow, I'm so tired and exhausted yet thoroughly happy.  Classes are not bad.  I actually have a few that I love.  They're just all time consuming.  *Sigh*  If only college had no homework...I would enjoy the learning process so much more.

This weekend has been amazing!!  Friday Shelby and I went to the SAGU football game (yes, of course we lost) then watched a movie.  That night we found out good ol' Jason Hassig was coming to visit the next day.  Saturday we watched the SAGU soccer team (they lost, but at least they have potential) then got snow cones then went to All School Fellowship.  It was super fun.  Afterwards we went to West Village for coffee and a good time.  THEN, we thought our night was ending (and it would have still been a good day at that)  but we got to see DELMER FORCE perform!  oh yeah!  We danced around and acted like we could actually rap.  Yeah, it was amazing.

Christen

Xanga, I love you.  You have faithfully listened to all my joys, sorrows, complaints, and excitements for over 3 years now.  You are the most committed relationship I think I have.  (haha, jk!)  Thank you for always offering me premium even though I do not need it, and thank you for not judging me.

I'm going to Mont Belvieu tonight to see my brother and Sheila and all the kids I worked with this summer.  It's been almost a month since I've seen them, so I'm really excited.

Can I just say that I love my friends and my roommates more than you'll ever know?!

Christen

PK Retreat was so fun this year.  Yeah, I was the very oldest...10 years in a row!!  I just love it though.  We played Wink'ems and Zipper.  Yes, I know you have no idea what I'm talking about, but it's dear to my heart.  I also got to hang out with some of the coolest guys in the whole world: Jason Hassig, Garrett Goode-- my future husband, by the way  , Jarrod Reese, Jarrod Simpson, Danny, my little bro Scott, and Josh Modisette.  So fun!

Christen

Hey, sorry it's been a whole week.  It's been crazy around here.  We started classes yesterday, and I started work.  It's going to be a good semester though.  Classes aren't going to be terrible, just lots of reading.  And that's okay because I love to read.

My roommates are amazing.  I just love them so much.  Someday when I have my computer back and get the digital camera of my dreams, I will show you great and wonderful pictures.  For now, I love you all, miss a lot of you, and hope to see you soon.

Christen

I recently took on a challenge.  I can't share it yet, but when I can, I will!!

I'm somewhat disappointed with y'all.  Do you really think I would be having a baby, and y'all wouldn't know it?  Plus, I'm not even married (or dating, in case you're wondering).

I leave for Waxahachie at 7 am.  We just finished packing up Dad's truck.  Every year I think I'm cutting back on stuff, but I'm not sure I've succeeded.  I have to unpack super fast in 'Hachie then head to Van for a special evening.  I love my family.

For those that asked, I'll be a junior this semester and a senior in the spring.  I'll (hopefully) be graduating Dec. 2006!  That means 3 semesters of 15 hours and a summer of 9.  I can't believe how close it really is.

Christen

I'm sorting through stuff and organizing my room this week for two reasons. 1) I'm moving back to the 'Hachie on Friday  2) The baby is due in November, and mom wants to set up a crib and changing table. 

I've come across some cool stuff.  I found picture albums, lessons from Master's, my old baby blanket.  I know I reminice on life all the time, but it's just so cool. :)  I'm such a freak though...all my pictures since 7th grade are in chronological order.

Christen

* EDIT * I'm not having a baby!  My brother and Sheila are!  Come on!

Throughout the summer I have learned to wait until about midnight to check to see who has posted on xanga because people always do kinda late.  Annnyyywaaayy...

I'm really excited about this Friday.  Van's first football game is happening, and I love football.  (Plus, we're celebrating my birthday with my whole family. Plus...)

I learned a valuable lesson tonight -- I really enjoy laughing out loud at everything...Sunday comics, books, TV.  So, when everyone is in bed and I'm trying to quietly watch Friends in the living room, stifling my laughter really hurts my lungs.

Christen

Truth be known...I have no way of getting a picture onto this thing.  I don't have a digital camera, I don't have a scanner, or anything.  Any ideas?

Does anyone else cry at some of the dumbest times?  For instance (and these two are as opposite as they come), I was reading Psalm, 1 & 2 Samuel, and 1 & 2 Kings a while back and when David died, I got really upset.  Yes, I knew ahead of time he would, but I was to the point where I cared a whole lot.  And just now, I finished watching the 8th season of Friends, and I was in tears.  I can't believe Rachel and Ross aren't together yet.  (now you may make fun of me.)

Christen

Isn't life weird?  We think change is such a bad thing, but it's awesome.  I was just reading several different people's xangas, and it made me think about how I knew all these people.  Home town, Southwestern, RMC, PK retreat (pastors' kids),  Mont Belvieu, etc.  I know people all over the country- Texas, Illinois, Colorado, California, Florida, all the way up to Pennsylvania.  I have lived this complex, super crazy life, and it's been wonderful.  Things really, really, really do happen for a reason, and I wouldn't change my life for the world.

I got my hair dyed today.  It's crazy!  I got blonde and red streaks all in it.  You can't really see the blonde; it just kinda lightened the brown, but the red is out there.  I like it, for now.  I figure in a few years that I will have to have normal hair, so I might as well live it up right now.

Christen

I know you were all waiting in suspense, but the fitness walking exam went very well.  My mile improved by 3 1/2 minutes!!  Yippee!!

I'm moving again today.  My poor little car is stuffed to capacity.  It's rather sad.  Goodbye Mont Belvieu; hello Longview.  I have complete plans for being very lazy the next week and a half before school starts.

Christen

Thanks for all your comments!

This has been a crazy week, and it just keeps getting crazier!  Yesterday, I went to the Apple store, and they diagnosed my computer as dead.  Yeah, dead.  I thought the screen had just gone out, but it died.  It's gonna be $350 to fix.  Feel free to contribute. :)

Today I take my final exam for fitness walking.  You'd think, "Oh, what an easy class.  What are you stressing about?"  Well, I have a 100 question final and have to walk 1 mile.  If I don't show improvement on my initial walking time back in June, I fail!!!  So, I'm a little stressed.  What if I'm not a good enough walker?  AHH!

Tonight I'm going to the Door in Dallas to watch my cousin's band after I leave Corsicana.  I'm very excited to see them on a big stage.

Tomorrow, we are celebrating Danae's birthday (again, haha).  Then, tomorrow night I'll make the long drive back to Houston just to turn around Sunday afternoon and drive to Longview.  (Don't try to solve my problems.  There is no other way.)

Happy Weekend.

Christen

Hey...this Friday...The Door...Homer Hiccolm and the Rocketboys!

I know what you're thinking...who?  Well, they are only the coolest band around.  This will be the only Friday this entire summer that I'm in Dallas.  I'll be watching my cousin's incredible band on the main stage at The Door at 7:30.  Be there!  Tell them you're there to see HH&RB.  And come hang out with me.

Christen

For more details, see Vergil_T_Willis

Hellllooooo!

Has it really been a week?  I've missed you so much.  Denver was amazing.  I saw tons of friends I haven't seen in months and watched some really cool dramas/human videos/sign language.  There are some really talented teenagers in this world.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was incredible.  If you didn't like the 1st one, you won't like this one.  But for those die-hard fans out there, it's way better than the 1st.  It made more sense, and Johnny Depp is *sigh* an amazing actor.

Christen

(This is my last week in Mont Belvieu.  I'm sad.  I like it here.)

I love vacation. We met up with my parents in Denver to hang out. Yesterday, we went to Pikes Peak. It was amazing. So beautiful. Then we ate at PF Changs. Oh the sweetness of vacation.

Today we're going shopping then seeing Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Hurray!!!

Christen

Mexico was cool. You have no idea how tired I am. I've done so many stupid things today at work. Earlier I sat in the bank drive thru waiting for a deposit slip. I was growing very impatient when I realized it was sitting there. Who knows how long. I keep wandering into rooms and can't remember why, and I have a splitting headache. Am I complaining? No, I just thought you'd like to know that I feel like an idiot today because of my tiredness.

I'm excited about Fine Arts next week, but I can't believe I'm going out of town another week. I'm so tired of traveling. sigh...

Christen

I'm tired...
Tamales aren't always everything they are cracked up to be...
I have never appreciated showers more...
"Hot" is now a very relative term...
Mexico really will let anybody in...
The US border is no better...
I, for sure, have the coolest brothers ever...
I hit an all-time low in appearance today...
Mexico- it is finished...

Christen

Hurricane Emily is in full force. We are currently 100 miles from Brownsville, TX where the hurricane has hit. I turn to look out the window and see trees whipping around and bending over. It's pretty crazy. Parents are freaking out. It's great! We're on house arrest. We aren't allowed to leave the church. It's understandable because we're also under tornado warnings. I'd be freaked out, but I'm just not.

Christen

How life is changing, my thoughts are changing, the things I have always believed are changing.

I still believe absolutes like Christ died for me, God created the heavens and the earth, etc. But our "Christianese" is many times wrong. For instance, my whole life youth camp has been: Monday-opening service, Tuesday-salvation night, Wednesday-Holy Spirit night, Thursday-called into the ministry. My issue is with Thursday. I remember growing up and feeling that tug on my heart and exclaiming, "YES, I'm called into the ministry. YES, I want to see people's lives changed for the Lord. But no, I don't want to be a youth pastor or a pastor." But the leaders never allowed that to be okay. There were two catagories: called into the ministry (meaning full-time, paid by the church) or a layman (every other profession in the whole world). I didn't understand. So for years I have been confused. I didn't understand why the Lord would place such a strong call on my life if he didn't intend for me to be a pastor or youth pastor.

Finally, I have realized that it hasn't been me that was wrong. It's our whole Christian society. I CAN be called into the ministry. WE ALL ARE! But we're not all intended to be pastors. True or False: The strong Christian guys in our youth groups are almost always encouraged to become youth pastors. Why can't we just let them be strong leaders elsewhere?

I never understood my friend Kory. He loved the Lord so much but always said he didn't want to be a youth pastor. I couldn't understand why he was letting such talent and influence go to waste. But he's not!! He's going to be one of the most influential people for God that I know, and he'll never be a full-time vocational minister.

What do you think? Am I wrong? What are your thoughts?

Christen

I'm home from Camp Del Lago! We had a blast. A couple of girls got sick, but other than that, no problems. The Lord did some awesome stuff in my kids and in my life. The whole week was about taking risks, which was exactly what this group needed to hear. I'm relaxing today because on Monday we leave for Mexico. Crazy!!

Thanks to all who responded to the last entry. It's cool to see what people think and like.

Christen

Do you ever find yourself really liking something? Last night I made a list of some of my absolute favorite "things" right now. I thought I'd share and have you tell me some of yours while I'm gone at camp. Yes, that means you will not be hearing from me til Friday.
I will explain some and some are divided into catagories. And here we go:

Music:
-John Mayer - I like his voice the way I've liked Dave Matthews for years. It's unique and I love it.
-Howie Day - I've only been listening to him this week, and I'm in love with his song Collide.
-Coldplay - oh, you understand.
-Gavin Degraw - I'm scared to see a picture of him because if he's not cute, I'll be so sad. His voice is awesome.
-The radio station Mix 96.5 - It's amazing. They play everything new (Green Day, the above listed) and old (Alanis Morisette, No Doubt, The Cardigans). I like almost every single song they play.
-Pop music in general - this is huge because if you know me at all, you know I've been a Country devotee for years

People Magazine
Watching movies alone
Text Messaging
Cool kids that joke with me
Driving

These are just a few, my friends. Tell me some of yours and I'll think of more later.

Christen

PS I just visited MySpace for the 1st time. I kinda felt like I was cheating on Xanga. haha

Yeah, two in one day, there's been more shocking things.

GUESS WHAT I DID TODAY!! I put bright red streaks in my hair. It's on the underside, but I went a little crazy. It's AWESOME!! I am so rebellious. I never do crazy stuff. I have never done anything "weird" to my hair before, so it feels good. hehe It's one step closer to what I ultimately want to do...red streaks all over. :)


The rebel

Sorry I haven't updated in so long. Life is really busy right now. It's camp and mission trip season. The next 4 weeks of my life are like WHOA! We have camp on Monday, Mission trip to Mexico the following Monday for 10 days, then 3 days back in the office, then we leave for General Council (a big Assemblies of God meeting with all the US) for another week. Wow, I'm not stressed, just tired already. :)

The 4th was awesome. We went to my grandparents' Sunday after church, and I schooled everyone in Shang Hi. hehe Then Monday we had another Beast Feast. For those unfamiliar, my family (myself included) is quite country. So, between my uncles and cousin, they killed, and we ate, deer, elk, wild hog, wild turkey, dove, quail, and catfish. Yes, my friends, that is 7 different kinds of meats that we ate. :) It was really good!

Have a happy week.

Christen

Dearest Xanga,

Have you ever noticed that even though this is an online journal, and I write so many different things about myself and my life, that it's actually very guarded? There are so many things that I do not share: personal thoughts, fears, life dreams, hopes. Today is one of those days where I do not share what I most want to say.

I watched Hotel Rwanda this morning. How ashamed I was to be American at that moment. I know I was only 10 when the genocide took place, but what happened? Why did our government stand by and watch 800,000 people die like that? Wow, I was so gripped by the movie that I hardly cried, but the tears poured down when it ended. How is it possible that I NEVER heard about that? There were several parts of the movie that rang so true to me. When the Americans, Belgians and French were being rescued from the hotel, a reporter said, "I'm so ashamed." He knew what was happening and knew his government was doing nothing to help. Also, a UN official told Paul (a Rwandan) that he was dirt in the world's eyes, not even a ni**er. He was an African. How true is that still today? The US cares about Europe, Asia, South America, but not Africa. Africa is finally getting some publicity because of actors like Angelina Jolie who work over there to end poverty. What callous, uncaring American we can be. I'm so ashamed.

Christen

Last night I got to hang out with one of my favorite people who I had not seen in a whole year...Ed! We met in Lake Charles which is just across the Texas border in Louisiana. It's a casino town and a scary little town, let me tell you. We met at Chili's (or should I say, I waited forever at Chili's....haha...that's for you Ed) and ate. He brought one of his Army buddies with him. It was so fun! Our poor waitress, we sat at that table from 6:30 to 10:15. I felt a little bad, but there was no where else to go in Lake Charles. We really got to catch up and tell countless stories of Master's. Anyway, I'm so glad we got to hang out. :)

Christen

Go check out my little brother's site: Chuck1291

I've been a Xanga member 999 days as of today. :)

Last night was RMC's graduation. I have some very dear friends who graduated, and I wish I could have been there with them. Candice called me to let me know who was being initiated as Tramps last night. I was a founding member, so they wanted me to know. The Marines were retired as of last night. *Sigh* Has it really been a solid year since I graduated from Master's?

I had a crazy dream last night that I was dating one of my guy friends from home. (No, I'm not saying who cause it would just make things weird.) It's funny cause I liked him a whole lot in high school but not since. I haven't even seen or talked to him in over a month. We were at a football game, and we were holding hands. Haha, so funny!!

Christen

I had such a good time in Austin yesterday. Some of my really good friends from SAGU live in Austin for the summer, so I decided to go visit. I met up with Andy, Scott, and Chris at Chuy's Mexican Restaurant for lunch. It was really good (a little overpriced though). After lunch, we went down by the University to some shops. I had never been in Urban Outfitters. It's such a cool store! Then we got some Jamba Juice...yummm! Afterwards, Chris had to run some errands, so Scott, Andy and I went and saw Cinderella Man. HOLY COW!! It's an amazing movie. I cried through...well...the majority of it. I will never comprehend how helpless they felt during the depression. I cried just watching them have nothing to eat. I cried when Mae's husband went to fight because she knew how dangerous it was. Wow, you have to see it. Even if you hate boxing, the movie is so inspiring and the story really pulls your heart strings. Anyway, after the movie Andy had to go to work, so Scott and I went to Chris's pastor's house to watch the Texas vs. Florida baseball game in the College World Series. Texas won 4-2. Then, I finally drove home. I was exhausted, but it was a fun day!

Christen

My life has forever been screwed up because of my 3rd grade teacher. When I was in 3rd grade, they did an experimental teaching method for math. Instead of learning to recognize multiplication facts by just looking at them, we learned to count by each number. For example, I do not know that 6 x 7 = 35 because I just know. I have to count... 7, 14, 21, 28, 35. 6 x 7 = 35. Yeah, this is a ridiculous and time consuming process that I was taught for a solid year.

Now you ask yourself, why don't you just learn them like flashcards? No, no, my friend, I've tried. I sat and did flashcards, but I kept counting in my head. It's useless. I'm forever screwed up.

Christen

Just so that you believe me:
~2,4,6,8,10,12...
~3,6,9,12,15,18,21,24,27...
~4,8,12,16,20,24,28...
~5,10,15,20,25,30...
~6,12,18,24,30...
~7,14,21,28,35,42,49,56,63,70
~8,16,24,32,40,48...
~9,18,27,36,45,54,63...

EDIT: SEEEEE I am screwed up!! If you look at the above entry, you will see that I wrote 6 x 7 = 35 when in fact it equals 42. AHHH!!!

Thanks to those who commented on my last post. I can't read them cause they haven't been restored yet.

It's been said that I'm a Diet Coke addict. I realized at the family reunion this weekend where I got it. My immediate family consisted of 18 people where the majority don't even like Diet Coke. But between the rest of us (we'll say 6 for detail's sake), we had a 24 pack, 2 twelve packs, and a 6 pack of Diet Cokes. That right there is proof. 54 Diet Cokes for a 3 day reunion. Haha!

The Diet Coke-aholic,
Christen

It's family reunion time, people. If you've ever met my family, you know we like to get together for any reason at all. We've been known to make up reasons just to spend time together. We might drive to Van for dinner one night just to see a roll of film that got developed. haha, yeah, we're awesome.

But this weekend is the mother of all family reunions...Hilltop Lakes and Resort. Yes, my family doesn't go half way to celebrate; we hit the resort...for 3 days. I'm talking golf, swimming, laying around. :) It should be fun.

Christen

I felt like a good ol' country girl this weekend. My brother and sister-in-law and I went out to a hunting lodge with some of his friends. We shot skeet, fished for crabs, cooked hamburgers, went out on a boat, and just hung out. It was one of the most relaxing, fun weekends I've had in a while.

Last night was our dinner theater. We were raising money for our Fine Arts kids to go to nationals this August. They did such a good job performing human videos, rapping, everything. I'm really getting to know some of the kids down here. They're really cool and hilarious! It'll be a good summer.

Christen

Thank you for your sympathy. It's much appreciated. haha

The day has finally come!! My brother and sister-in-law found out this past week what they are having...a boy!!!! Mark was so excited (and I think secretly relieved). It's really cool to know that there is a little boy inside there; now if they could just settle on a name. I am going to be such a cool aunt to my little nephew. yea!!

Christen

I got home Tuesday night in the most frustrating way:

I arrive at O'Hare (in Chicago) at 12:45 for my 2:30 pm departure to Houston Intercontinental. I check my luggage, breeze through security, and buy a cookie because I'm almost two hours early for my flight. I check my phone because it's set up to send me texts of flight information. I have a text that says my gate changed to H10. Okay, I think, I have all the time in the world. I waltz down to H10 to see that there is no flight listed on the screen and nobody waiting in that waiting area. Hum, I guess the gate didn't change to H10. I walk over to a departure monitor to check the gate number. My eyes scan down to Dallas/Ft.Worth, 2:30 flight, Gate H13. Oh, I think, it's only 3 gates away. So I sit in Gate H13 for 2 hours. The plane becomes delayed due to pressurization problems. I call my brother to inform him that my flight is delayed. No problem. That is until they begin boarding. I get in line and look at the informational screen. An hour and a half flight? There's no way...it takes an hour and a half to get to...DALLAS!! I'm waiting in line to get on a Dallas flight, and I live in HOUSTON!!! I look at my watch: 2:50 pm. My heart sunk; my flight to Houston was at 2:30. (Que the sad music and me feeling completely stupid) I find the rebooking desk that should be called the "Hey idiot who missed your flight" desk. I talk to an agent who informs me it will be $100 to switch to a later flight. I yell "Oh my gosh, are you serious?" into the phone because I'm a poor little girl. He finally tells me that I qualify for free standby and there is a 6:50 flight. I go find a gate agent and tell him my sad story. He takes my old boarding pass and ID and hands me a new boarding pass. (He wasn't supposed to put me on the flight, just standby) But he whispers, "Just take it, you're set."

The moral of the story is: No matter how long you've lived in one city, after you move, you have to fly to the new city.

Christen

Thanks to those who actually read the above, it's pretty funny.

I go back to Texas tomorrow. What a wonderful time I have had. Tonight I get to go to small group and see my kids. Man, I love them. It's hard to believe I haven't been to a small group with them in over a year, yet it seems like yesterday. Six of them graduated from high school and Matt graduated from the internship. I'm so proud of all of them. Thanks for all your comments.

Christen

PS Happy 2 year anniversary to Mark and Sheila!!

Well, I guess I should update. I'm in Rockford, and it's wonderful. I have had a chance to hang out with a lot of old friends and classmates, which is great. Wednesday night my friend Nate played his guitar and sang for a few of us after church. He's so amazing, and he just cut a new CD which I am listening to as we speak (as I type). Last night we had tramp night. Stop shaking your head, it's not what is sounds like. We started it last year. Amy has a trampoline at her house, and a bunch of us girls would all go out there at night and lay on the trampoline and just talk, laugh, and look for shooting stars. It jokingly became referred to as "tramp night". hehe, at least we think it's funny. Last year it was kinda a running joke that everyone had seen one or two shooting stars except me. I never could see them. But I finally did the last night we were out there last June. *smile*

I love good friends that you can go long periods of time without seeing or talking to and still pick up where you left off. Those are the best. Anyway, I gotta go.

Christen

Well, I'm in Longview right now.  I'm having a fantastic time.  Practically my whole family came into town today which has been great.  It's been nice to get away from the office a little bit.  Life is very good right now.  We're going back to Houston tomorrow, and I'm going to Rockford on Wednesday!!  Yippee!  Love you

Christen

HOT!!! I don't know how on earth I forgot it can be so hot in Texas. But I did. I walk outside and the humidity knocks my breath out. Yuck!

I watched Hillary Duff's movie "Raise Your Voice" last night. It's pretty good actually. It's got depth (I cried!) and even though it's somewhat predictable, it's enjoyable. So, if you like chick flicks, you'll like this movie.

Can you believe one week from today I'll be in Rockford??? YEA!!

Christen

I'm in Houston. It's hot! It was 100 degrees yesterday. AHH! Everything's great though. I got here Wednesday, and we didn't waste time. I worked on Thursday. hehe It's great though. God is so faithful and knows what I need and want. This is going to be a great summer.

I felt like I was in Master's again on Friday. The secretary left me a copy of the bulletin to make copies of and fold. It was hilarious. I had no idea how to use the copier and I was here alone, but I MADE IT HAPPEN. haha! As I was folding them, I thought about the hundreds of mailers we did last year. Yes, subconciously, I loved mailers. I know I'm weird, but it was such a relief to not be hauling heavy stuff or calling all over Rockford to get donations or something. Anyway, it was funny at least to me.

Leave me comments, I love your comments.

Christen

Well my friends, I'm off to Houston.  It's really sad...I just packed my ENTIRE life into my car...and there's still empty space.    I hate packing and moving.  Funny, huh? cause I love change.  I really like for things to be different, and moving is a significant change, but for some reason, I hate it.  Oh well, I'm off.  I'm not sure how often I'll be on here, but don't forget me friends.  I love you.

Christen

P.S. I have on the same shirt today that I have on in that picture.

Wow, I really appreciate the comments!

I've realized this past year that I love a good book.  I went into being an English major liking the grammar tons more than the literature.  However, my appreciation for literature has grown tremendously.  For instance, I breezed through 10 young adult lit books last semester because I loved them!

Right now I'm rereading Redeeming Love.  I read it in high school and really liked it.  But now that I'm older, and I've experienced a crappy relationship and observed really healthy relationships, this book means so much more to me.  I've literally devoured it over the last 48 hours.  I can feel Angel's hurt and understand her longing to be whole (obviously not it the same way through since she's a prostitute).  Anyway, it's an adaption of the story of Hosea and Gomer from the Bible, and it's incredible.

Christen

What a week!  I'm exhausted.  haha.  My grandparents celebrated 50 years of marriage yesterday.  Pretty incredible, huh?  You don't see many people these days who can say they have been married for 50 years.  Someday, I will.

Do you ever wish you could be someone else?  I'm not talking jealousy.  I don't really know what I mean.  But if you were, things might be better or just different.  Hummm...

I leave for Houston on Wednesday.  Did I tell you that I'm interning for my brother this summer?  I'm so excited.  Then I leave for Rockford June 1st.  I need Rockford.  It's home to me...so refreshing, so many friends, ahh...

Oh, I didn't tell you about my epiphany.  I was staring at a picture of Karissa and me the other day and thought, "I don't look pretty, my hair looks flat..." Then I thought, "Wow, Karissa's so pretty." At that moment, she walked in and said, "I hate that picture.  It's not very good of me, but you're so pretty." It just hit me.  When we (I'm kinda lumping all girls into this we) look at pictures of ourselves, we pick out all the flaws, but we only see the good things about our friends.  Isn't this true of real life?  We pick ourselves apart, yet people love us and see us for who we are.  It's just made life easier.  I don't always have to reapply make up or fix my hair right.  My friends and family love me for me, not how I look.

Christen

Thank you all for your prayers and condolences.  The funeral went very well.  I love my family so much.

I'll be in Longview for the next 5 days so if you want to hang out, just call.

Check out my adopted pet at the bottom.  I think I'll try him out for a bit.

Christen

Well, I'm home, but everything's crazy.
Last night, my great-grandfather, Paul Hightower, died at 91 years old.  He was my last living great-grandparent.  It's so weird cause when I was born, I had 7 great-grandparents alive.  In the last 2 years, 4 of those have died.  My family lives long lives.  That I am happy about.  Tomorrow night is the visitation and Wednesday is the funeral.

I leave for Houston next Monday most likely.  This is going to be a great/busy/exciting/stretching summer.

Christen

Another semester...done.  I'm sad.  Even though I'm not a big fan of classes, I absolutely love my friends and don't want to leave them for the summer.

We had our 3rd JRBBP (Joint Room Bagel Bite Party) tonight.  Ang, Karissa and I made bagel bites, queso, and blackberry cobbler for Russell and Andy.  Those guys are a blast.  They brought pina colada mix (virgin of course) and made us drinks.  It was so fun.  We picked up Scott and went and saw the Interpreter.  Great night.

Tomorrow Ang graduates.  I can't believe it.  We're so old. hehe  And I move home for a week on Saturday.  Then on to Houston the 16th.

Christen

Guess what!?  I'M GOING TO BE AN AUNT!!!

Sure, I've known for a while, but I haven't really been able to tell everyone.  Last month I went to visit my brother and sister-in-law, and they told my parents and Sheila's family.  It was SO exciting!!  This baby will be my parents' first grandchild and my first niece or nephew.  I absolutely can't wait.  Sheila's due the 3rd week of November (Thanksgiving Day!!).  I got to see the sonogram a few weeks ago.  Anyway, I'm so excited!!

Christen

I got a new cell phone number.  I don't really want to post it on here though.  If you didn't get a call or text from me, email me at CLCarter02@hotmail.com and I'll send you my new number.

It's been said that
I'm in love with love,
but that love
is in love with
someone else.

Don't ask.  It's not as dramatic as it sounds.  I've just found that I really like poetry.

Happy Friday.  My dad was in town yesterday and today.  We ate at Joe's Crab Shack today and then went and saw The Interpreter.  It's such a good movie.

Karissa and I went to Cafe Brazil tonight and then to Wild About Harry's.  It was so fun just hanging out.  Tomorrow I'm gonna be a bum. 

Christen

I only have 4 more class times to go to and 3 finals.  It's crazy!  I can't believe a whole year has passed since I was in Master's.  It's wild.

I finally got registered for summer classes today which is a relief.  I'm taking American Lit I and Fitness Walking over the internet.  This should be hilarious.

My Dad's coming into town tomorrow which I'm really happy about.  I haven't seen him in a few weeks.

Christen

What a wonderful weekend...a weekend of fun and surprises!!

Friday, Scott (Karissa's Scott) surprised Karissa by taking her to Six Flags instead of classes.  It was so great cause he's been planning it for a while.  I went to see The Interpreter with Jeanene, which is SO good!  You should see it.  That evening I babysat for Jon and Kim.  I absolutely love Chandler and Chelsea, so it's not even like work.  I took them to soccer practice and to a birthday party.  Then we went home and watched Tom and Jerry.  :)

Saturday, I went to a brunch with Heidi.  It was really wonderful.  Then I spent the afternoon completely nervous because last night I threw a surprise party for Karissa with just the girls.  I couldn't relax all day because I was so scared Karissa was going to figure it all out.  hehe I'd been lying all week to cover my tracks.  Anyway, at 6:45, she and I were supposed to "hang out" alone but all the girls (Jeanene, Heidi, Shelby, Paige and Esther) came popping in with noise makers and goofy jewelry.  It scared Karissa to death. hehe!  We went to Red Robin, which was wonderful.  She opened presents, and they brought a sundae and everything.  Then we went to Blockbuster to rent Roman Holiday.  It's an old Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn movie.  It was really good.  We had cake and snacks while we watched.

All in all, it was a fabulous weekend. I've been a bum all day since I didn't have homegroups.  Love you all!

Christen

All day long today I've thought it was Friday.  So, I'm highly disappointed that tomorrow's Friday, and I still have to go to classes.

Tonight was amazing.  Tomorrow is Karissa's 21st birthday, so Angela, Karla and I took her out tonight.  We went to Breadwinner's in north Dallas.  It was some of the best food I've ever eaten.  Karissa' mom paid for our dinner (she gave us a limit, we didn't take advantage) so we had dinner and dessert!  Aww, it was so fun!

It's going to be a crazy weekend.

Christen

I'm SO frustrated.  I'll tell you all about it after this weekend.  AHH!!

I got the computer today!  YEA!  It's so fun.  I've been downloading songs all day.  My parents are so incredible to get me such a wonderful gift.

I am a woman with many dreams.
They spill out,
get caught up,
and flow freely.

I know who I want to become.
But life
(sometimes)
gets in the way.

Despite disappointments,
I live life in joy,
in love,
in prosperity.

Christen

What a great weekend!  Class Night was wonderful.  Cuba Libre was incredible!  If any of you want an amazing meal, please call and we'll go.  I had such a good time with Jeanene, Heidi and Devin.

Saturday I went to Melissa (Eller) Hall's wedding.  She was gorgeous, and it was great to see everyone.

Christen

I'm really happy right now.  I'm sitting here drinking horchata (which is a Spanish drink made of milk, rice and water), listening to a great cd and anticipating a wonderful evening.  Tonight's Class Night (it's Southwestern's version of prom--no dancing, but you get to dress up and they'll crown Mr. and Miss SAGU).  I'm going with friends--Jeanene, Heidi and Devin.  It's going to be so fun just hanging out with no pressure (which means I have no date).  Afterwards, we're going to Cuba Libre which is a Cuban restaurant.  I'm so excited!

I found out some more grades for English Lit.  I'm definitely getting a B in the class unless I totally bomb the final.  I made an 85 on my research paper.  I was hoping for an A, but it's really okay.  And the test I took Monday, I MADE AN A!  Then the essay Wednesday I made a B.  So, I have a for sure B.

Christen

Tonight was super!  One of my friends from high school, Amy, called me at 5 today to see if I wanted to go watch the Rangers tonight for free!  I dropped all other plans (for studying) and went.  Her brother Derek was there too.  (The three of us had newspaper together in high school so it was great to see them.)  We sat on the 3rd base line, which was cool.  It was so random because I saw all these people I knew.  Anyway, the whole reason we went was because Jamario Thomas threw the first pitch tonight.  He was on our football team in high school and now is a super star at UNT.  He did awesome.

I need to study for my English Lit test that's tomorrow.  UGH...I hate essays.

I have a super cool group for class night this Friday.  I'll tell you all about it later.

Christen

Yesterday as I sat drinking a Diet Coke, I found an article that proves that the aspartame in it will not kill me.  :)  The FDA approved aspartame and stands behind that decision, and there has been no evidence or proof that it causes cancer, tumors, or brain damage.  So...uh...there.

Mom and I had a blast on Saturday.  We ate at the Macaroni Grill for lunch then shopped all afternoon.  I got 4 cds which rocks!  At some point in my life I've owned 3 of the 4 Switchfoot cds, but I've lost 2 and 1 is incredibly scratched.  So, I found a box set of the first 3: Legend of Chin, New Way to be Human, and Learning to Breathe.  It was 20 bucks!  Now, I've just gotta find my old Beautiful Letdown and life will be complete.  I also got a Superchic[k] cd.  I used to own it but lost it on my mission trip last year.

What's the deal with her losing cds?  Yeah, I don't know.  I was just asking myself the same question.

Christen

Wendy left today which is sad.  :(  We had a really good time and good talks!  I wish I hadn't been so busy all week.

Tonight was the cast party for Southwestern Live.  We ate some good ole' food and laughed and talked.

I watched My Best Friend's Wedding with Heidi tonight.  I forget that movie depresses me and makes me so sad for Julia Roberts.  I shouldn't watch it.  But I had fun talking with Heidi and Jeanene afterwards.

Tomorrow I'm going to Town East to hang out with my mom.  I'm so excited.

Christen

I really love Xanga.  It's so nice to be able to keep up with people's lives.

This has been a great week (post-paper of course).  I'm so glad Wendy's here.  She's been such an encouragement to me.  Tonight, she, Christen F, and I went to Cedar Hill for dinner.  It was so nice to talk about Master's with people that understood.  My roommates will listen to my stories, but it's not the same as discussing them with people who lived through it and were there.

I miss Master's a lot.  I know I'm in the right place, but I miss people who aren't appathetic to the daily dose of "God-stuff."  Chapel and prayer is so routine here that people have become disrespectful and almost rebellious.  Don't get me wrong...I'm not the model student.  I skip chapel and complain sometimes too, but Wendy and Christen have made me realize how much of the joy of Master's I've lost.  No way I would have talked or just sat there during an RMC chapel.  Yet not one day this semester have I taken notes or truly paid 100% attention.  I guess, dear Xanga friends, I got really convicted today.  I've always thought I had a pretty good attitude about it, but obviously not.

Anyway, I register for classes for the fall tomorrow.  I'll officially be a second semester junior in the fall.  CRAZY!  Only 3 semesters left.  I'm gonna have to bust my butt, though.  But it'll all get done.

Christen

The paper is officially done.  I turned all 14 pages in today at 3.  I felt so accomplished, so satisfied.  Yes, I worked over 25 cumulative hours on it.  Yes, it was hard.  But I feel so proud of myself right now.

Tomorrow I have a scripture and ethics' presentation, which should be easy.  Then, the rest of the week will be smooth sailing for the most part.  Thursday is North Texas days here at good ole' SAGU, and Friday is the cast party for Southwestern Live.  It should be a blast.

GUESS WHAT!!  I'm getting a lap top.  I'm so excited!  My computer bit the dust last August, and I've been using my roommate's ever since.  But the wonderful Tom Tanner is selling me his.  Also, Wendy O'Brien is here this week.  It's so great having her here!!

Christen

It's 2:26 in the AM! and I'm officially done with my research paper.  Hallelujah!!!!

Christen

What a weekend!!  Yesterday I woke up at 9:30 am and worked on my research paper til 2 am.  AHH!  I've finished all my research, organized all my notes, and I've written an outline.  Now I've just got to type it.

Christen

I'm glad I'm really secure in myself.  Otherwise, this weekend would suck (and I don't like that word, so you know I'm serious).  It's Friday night at 11 pm, and I'm sitting at home.  My roommate's on a date, and I have a 12 page research paper due on Monday.  And I have a 45 minute group project due on Tuesday.  AHH!  I'm really hating college right now.  I officially have a B in English Lit.

Okay, I need some advice.  I'm considering being an RA next year.  Here are some pros and cons:
Pros:
-My own room
-Impact peoples lives
-Scholarship
Cons:
-RA class every Monday
-One weekend off a month
-Duty every week
-Inservice
-Lots of responsibilites

I don't know how I feel about it.  I think I'd be good at it, but I don't know if I'd enjoy it.  People have been encouraging me both ways.  Any advice would help, and prayer of course.

Christen

Tomorrow night is the final Southwestern Live of the semester.  I can't believe it's over tomorrow.  It's been really bitter sweet.  I've made some amazing friends through it since we practice so much.  But at the same time, it's stressed me out and affected my grades.  I really love the show.  I always have.  I'm just so tired.  I won't do it again next semester because I really need to do other things, but I still love the show.  It's so funny.  The first show this semester I was totally nervous, but I'm completely neutral this time.  It's going to be fun.  Someone described it the other day like this: "This show is just our playground."  So true.

Christen

Well, truth be known: I lost once again at Easter egg hunting.  Josh even said he wasn't going to try for anything but money eggs, and yet HE STILL BEAT ME!  I just don't know anymore. hehe  Anyway, I did get $20 through money eggs, so that was exciting!  Easter was a success!

I cried during English Lit II today.  I feel like it's so over my head.  I have a B average right now (there's no hope for an A), but now I'm stressed to keep it a B.  UGH!!

This week is crazy.  We have Southwestern Live practice every night, and the show's Thursday.  Then this weekend I'm going to be busting my butt to write a 12 page research paper for English Lit II.  (see what I mean?)  But after April 4, life will slow down significantly.  (Thank you, Lord!)

Christen

Happy Easter, my dear friends.  I hope you have a chance to celebrate the great thing Christ did for you this weekend...the whole reason we have the opportunity to be Christians.

Tonight I went to a rockin' concert in Van.  My cousin Josh's band, Homer Hiccum and the Rocket Boys, played, and it was fabulous!  I really, really enjoyed it.

Tomorrow I'm gonna hunt some serious Easter eggs.  Josh (see former paragraph) always wins, but I'm gonna try to this year (never happens).  Oh well, Happy Easter people!

Christen

Something big happened in my life this week.  I'll tell you all about it when I can.

The trip to Houston went GREAT!  I have the greatest friends.  We had so much fun listening to music and talking.  The service was amazing, too.  Mark and Sheila's youth center was really cool, and there were 275 people there!!  The town is tiny, may I remind you.  We ate dinner at their house afterwards; then, Sheila made us cookies.  Yum!!  Thanks, Sheila!

Easter is great.  Friends, family, food!  Couldn't be better.  For those of you that know my family well, you'll know this is HUGE:  I won Shanghi for the FIRST time ever tonight.  It's the first time we've played every hand, and I won fair and square!!!  Go me!

Christen

Tonight is the night of driving.  At 3 pm, Andy, Russell, and I are leaving for Mont Belvieu, Texas to go see my dear brother and sister-in-law.  Their new youth center is opening up, and they are going to have a blow out service!!!  I'm so excited.  However, I do have to drive back tonight because I have a HUGE test tomorrow here at good ole' Southwestern.

Crazy how life comes full circle.  When I was in junior high, I LOVED Dave Matthews.  Then I went through several years when I never listened to him.  But a couple of days ago, the guy my roommate's dating let us borrow a Dave Matthew's CD, and it is currently blasting in my apartment.  Weird, yeah.

Christen

Today's my half birthday!  Happy Half Birthday to me!! I'm 21 1/2!

Does anyone else have really vivid dreams?  I sure do.  Twice this week I've woken up and thought my dream really happened.  For instance, (names have been removed for...well...reasons) I dreamed last week that I went to Longview for spring break and saw one of my guy friends.  We were hanging out and discussed that we liked each other and if fact, had liked each other for years (this is false in real life).  He went and bought a ring and proposed to me.  I accepted.  Then the rest of my dream I'm justifying to all my friends why I was now engaged to a guy I was not dating.  Anyway, so I woke up, and thought, "Oh crap, what have I done?"  I, seriously, looked down at my hand to make sure it wasn't real.  Crazy, huh?

Well, this week is going to be stressful.  I have so much to do:  Southwestern Live practice every day, 2 tests, an essay and a quiz, and I'm going to Houston on Wednesday.  AHH!

It was so crazy this morning.  All weekend I've been stressed out and thinking that life will be better after all this stuff is due.  Then, in Sunday School, the lesson was about contentment in this moment.  It was exactly what I needed to hear.

Love you all!
Christen

P.S.  Go here --> http://www.purevolume.com/scatteredtreeshollohills
My friend Nate from Rockford is coming out with a new album, and you can listen to three of his songs.  He's amazing!!

Well, Spring Break '05 is almost over.  So fun though!  We had a good time at my home, but we're back in good ole Waxahachie now.  Ang and I went and saw The Ring 2 tonight.  It wasn't half as good as the first one, but it wasn't disappointing either.  I screamed a couple of times.  hehe  Last night we saw In Good Company.  It wasn't the love story I expected, so I was disappointed, but I liked it anyway.  We got to hang out with some of my closest friends-- Mark Sorgee, Alesha Pither, Kory Moon and Ikey Eason.  We all go WAY back, so it was a blast.

How is everyone?  Tell me about your life.

Christen

"Spring Break '05, baby!"  Every time something exciting happens, this is what I have been exclaiming.  hehe

Spring Break really has been everything I hoped for...fun, relaxing, good times with friends.  San Antonio was gorgeous.  We met up with one of my friends, Kyle, Sunday and ate by the Riverwalk.  Kyle must have thought my friends (Karla, Karissa and Angela) were crazy.  We are all four loud and talkative, but it was so fun.  Then we played cards and ate ice cream.  Monday we went to Fiesta Texas and rode rollercoasters all afternoon.  That evening we ate at a restaurant that was not as we expected.  We thought it was going to be like Ed Debevics (for all those familiar with Chicago) but instead, it was very...well...dirty.  That's all I'll say.  Tuesday, we drove into San Marcos and shopped at the outlets for like 8 hours, but finally went on to Van that night.  Today we were complete and total bums on the couch, but it was relaxing.  :)  Now we're in Longview and chilling with my family.

I have coined a phrase that I use often: "Rockford Days."  There are days when all I can think about are my friends in Rockford, or I experience something that reminds me of it, or I'm having a bad day and wish I was there.  Anyway, last night I had a "Rockford Day."  I drove to Van (5 hours) starting at 9:30 pm while my roommates slept and listened to two mixed CDs that were given to me up there.  Wow, God revealed so much to me last year about who I am and who He says I am.  Those songs just take me back.

To all my friends and family, here in Texas and up in Illinois, I love you.  Thank you for helping me become who I am today.

Christen

Wow, Spring Break!  I'm having a fabulous time.  I'm in Austin with my family right now.  We come to the Texas Boys' High School State Basketball Tournament every year, but the exciting thing this year was VAN WON!!!  Van is the town my WHOLE family lives in, and I grew up in.  They won the 3A tournament.  It was amazing.  They are so good!  Tomorrow, I leave for San Antonio with Karissa, Ang and Karla.  We are just chillin for 3 days then to Van then to Longview.  I'm loving this week already.

Christen

Well, the TWIRP date went well.  SO FUN!  We really had a blast.  Here's the run down:
-Me, Andy, Brooke, Russell, Angela, Arlin, Karissa and Scott
-Picked them up in a 1990's Cadillac limo (chauffer too)
-Chick Fil A nuggets, Chicken Express biscuits, and favorite beverages were in the limo
-We got lost for 45 minutes after an hour drive (still fun...everyone talked)
-Played Lunar Golf (black light putt putt) and Andy and I got 2nd  :)
-Angela drank Dr Pepper out of a bottle we found in the parking lot for $5
-Ate some good dessert at Bennigan's with a whole lot of laughing and talking
-Drove home with good conversation
-12 minutes late for curfew...opps!

Good thing last night was fun cause I didn't do so hot on my English Lit II test...ugh!  Tomorrow I go to Austin for the Basketball State Tournament!  GO VAN!!!

Sunday I'm meeting my roommates in San Antonio for 3 days of chilling out. Yes!!  Spring Break...here I come!

Christen

Where is the balance of wanting a good grade in a class and not stressing so much over it?

I have always been a good student.  Up to this point in my life, I have only made one B.  I don't say this to brag but to help you see where I'm coming from.  This semester I have one class that is kicking my tail.  I made an A on the first test (which was hard), but I just got my first paper back that I thought I did well on, and I made a 75.  I am so discouraged.

I say that I would be okay with a B, but the truth be known, I would be quite upset.  I want an A.  But I don't want to be stressed out all semester for one.  Ugh!  Where's the balance?  I want to think long term and see that I need good grades, but all I see is today...and today I'm tired on trying so hard all the time.

Christen

Hey y'all,

I'm not dead, but Karissa took her laptop to Seattle this week, so I have to come to the library to use the internet.  I'm having a busy, but good, week!  Love you all!

Christen

Friday was so much fun.  Mark and Sheila came and hung out with me.  We ate at Campuzano's for lunch with Russell, Andy, and Angela.  Then, we just visited all of their old teachers and friends.  That evening, Ang and I went to Chipotle to eat and then to West Village in Dallas to hang out.  I had never been to West Village, but it's so cool.  It's kinda the upper side of Dallas, but I didn't feel too out of place.  Bottom line: fun time.

Yesterday I was a stinkin bum.  I slept most of the day and watched the Texas/ Missouri game and the OU/ Baylor game.  Last night I worked basketball games then went to Karioke (?) night in the student center.  It was funny!

Christen

Tomorrow's Friday!  Yea!  My older brother Mark and his wife Sheila are coming to Waxahachie to see me (and to do some other business, but I like to think it's just to see me).  I'm in Longview right now cause I had to finish all the business with my speeding ticket.  I had to take my defensive driving form and driving record in person to the courts.  So that's over with.

TWIRP: The Woman Is Required to Pay
TWIRP is a week each semester where girls have the opportunity to ask a guy on a date.  Kinda like Sadie Hawkins, minus the dance.  There's kinda an unwritten rule that you either TWIRP a friend or a guy that you already know likes you.  It's a little faux pas to TWIRP a guy you like (who has shown no interest in you first).  Guys typically like it since they get a free night of hanging out, but they will express their dislike in the creepy girls who TWIRP the guy they are crushing on.  hehe  So, just like last semester (but different guy), I'll probably TWIRP one of my friends.  Never ever ever would I TWIRP a guy who I seriously liked as a way to show him I liked him.  That's common sense.

Christen