Day 27: Affections

Day 27: A Picture of Yourself with a Family Member

These people stir my affections:



I am not lost on the fact that I was born into a very special, and rare, family. Growing up, I did not grasp the concept of divorce, or fighting, or bitterness. I knew love, patience, and kindness. The few moments I have heard my parents heatedly disagree, I have never been scared. Because we are a family. A unit.

From the get-go, we have been tight-knit. We did everything together, and a lot of times, we still do. They are my biggest fans, and I theirs.

Growing up and growing in numbers has only brought us closer. How we survived 19 years without my sister-in-law, I'll never know. She belongs; she's one of us. And the two, precious little boys in the picture above make my heart full. I knew love on one level until they were born. Sometimes I secretly wonder how I will ever love my own children more. I mean, I know I will, but today, it doesn't seem possible.

The dynamic of my family unit only makes me more cautious when choosing a future husband. He stands to gain an amazing family, and I want to make sure he can handle it. ;) We are quite vocal about Scott's girlfriends because she's going to have to hang out with Sheila and me for the next 60 years. haha It's kinda funny, and yet, Sheila and I have discussed this, on more than one occasion. I'm quite serious.

The older I get, the more thankful I am for the family God has given me. I realize how lucky and blessed I am.

Family- I love you. :)

Christen

Day 26: Ceramics

Day 26- A picture of something that means a lot to you

When I was living in McKinney, I had a lot of time on my hands. I worked during the day, but beyond that, I had no responsibilities or obligations. I was bored and needed something to do. I decided to take a couple of continuing education classes at the local community college, and I fell in love. First, I took Novel Writing. It was cool, and my writing evolved. No, I have not written a novel- okay, maybe a few chapters. Then I took a ceramics class. Coolest. Class. Ever. I went one night a week for about 8 weeks. I have so many cool things and memories. I miss it.



These pieces mean a lot to me. I love that I made these with my hands. The torquoise piece is my favorite. :)

Days 24 & 25- A Picture of My Day

Day 24- A picture of something that you wish you could change

I'm skipping Day 24. I don't know, I guess I'm happy with my path. I feel like anything I'd want to change will just sound like I'm unhappy with the way it is. So, yeah...on to day 25!

Day 25- A picture of your day

My days have changed quite a bit since I began this blogging journey. I went from being the night time assistant manager to the day time store manager. I've had to adjust to going to bed a whole lot earlier and getting up way too early for my liking. However, I get to come home during the daytime, which I like. And I get to come home to this:



My apartment is pretty beautiful right now. :) Yeah, I know you're jealous. ;)

Day 23: My favorite Book

Day 23- A picture of your favorite book



I read this book for the first time in high school. It's about an inch and a half thick, and I read it in 2 days.

It's exciting, sad, heart wrenching, joyous. It's set in the gold-mining era, and yet, it applies to today. It's based on the book of Hosea in the Bible and completely brings it to life.

I have reread it probably 5 times and loaned it out a thousand times. The picture above is actually my 3rd copy. The first one was loaned out to a fellow flight attendant and never returned. She bought me a new one. The second one was loaned out to a Chick-fil-A coworker and doused in soda. He also bought me a new one. I apparently loan them to great people. :)

I have never met someone who didn't love this book (or cry reading it).

Maybe I'll reread it this week. :)

Day 22: I wish I was better at...

Day 22: Something I Wish I was Better at

When I was a freshman in college, I took a class called Intro to Fine Arts and Media. It was literally worthless, but it was part of my major. My teacher didn't teach...he told stories or followed bunny trails. We didn't really take tests, and other than one big project, I don't think we had any other assignments. Other than one. We were required to go out and attend a fine art presentation of some sort. We could go to the symphony, ballet, an art museum, or a dozen other things. There were specifications, such as bringing back your admission ticket, or a program.

Being that Karissa (my college roommate) and I were both huge procrastinators, we waited until the very last day before our paper was due, and we went to the Kimball Art Museum in Fort Worth. I know I had been to museums before, but that day, it was like something was awakened inside of me.

The art was beautiful. It was inspiring. I fell in love.

That summer I got the opportunity to go with my parents to Washington DC. If you have ever been there or seen the Smithsonian, you know there is a vast art museum. I was in heaven.

Since 2003, I have been to virtually every major art museum in the country. I've been to the ones in NYC more than once. I want to go to Europe so bad.

When I saw Van Gogh's "Starry Night" at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City, I started crying. I was standing in front of one of the most important pieces of art in history. It moves me.



Two of my other two favorite artists are Claude Monet and Wassily Kandinsky:





I have a print of a Kandinsky in my bedroom. I love it. It would be a true dream to own a real one one day.

I mostly love modern and contemporary art. I tend to lean toward impressionism and abstract art. The weirder, the more I'm likely going to like it. I love Picasso's random, seemingly jumbled paintings, as well as the clean lines from Piet Mondrian's paintings.

I love it all.

And I really wish I was better at it. I try my hand at it, and if I really love you, I'll even show you some. But I'm not good. I've had no training. I want training. Maybe I'll take a class, get a degree, you never know with me. ;)

Day 21: I Try to Forget

Day 21- A Picture of Something You Wish You Could Forget



The night I went to the Granada Theater was for a Valentine's Day date 2 years ago. Just know that it was the worst date/day of my life.

Most days I forget about it. On the days I think about it, I passionately thank the Lord that it went so badly. It took that date to wake me up to the fact that I was in a bad relationship. I was justifying it on a daily basis, and it scares me to even think about how long I would have allowed it to continue.

Instead, I was so angry, that there was no turning back. We broke up that night.

I try to forget. And most days I do.

Day 20: Plane ticket, please

Day 20: A Picture of Somewhere You Would Love to Travel



I have a deep love for education. I really don't understand when someone doesn't love school. As long as I can remember, school was facinating to me. I remember a lot about kindergarten- cutting on the lines, story time on the carpet rug, centers. Every year after that was an adventure. In 3rd grade, my reading class did a project on ancient Egyptian culture. We discussed mummification, their many gods, and their way of life. From that moment, I was hooked.

I love studying about Egypt. For my junior year in high school research paper, I wrote about mummification. If you ever want to read it, I have a copy. (I also have a copy of every other paper I ever wrote in college. Yep- I'm a complete nerd.) The first time I saw a real mummy in a museum, I cried. After so many years of learning about them, it was awesome to see one. The Smithsonian in Washington DC has an extensive display of mummies and their coffins. Oh! And in New York City, the Metropolitan Museum of Art has this crazy Egyptian exhibit. You walk in, and it's like you're walking through a pyramid. Lastly, I got to see the King Tut exhibit at the Dallas Museum of Art a couple of years ago. Most people can see the whole thing in an hour. Yeah, I emerged after 2 1/2. It's that cool.

So...if I could travel anywhere...it's Cairo, Egypt. I want to see the pyramids, the Great Sphinx, the museums there. I want to ride a camel, and tour their ancient cities.

And I will one day.

Day 19: A Letter

Day 19: A Picture and a Letter



Dear Dad,

From an early age, I realized I was the exception. I was one of few other girls who had an amazing, loving, giving, involved father. As I've grown up, I hope I have shown you how much I appreciate your love and involvement in my life.

My most favorite memories involve you. Going camping as a kid, by that little river. Driving through the red wood forests. Helping skin a deer. Learning about sports and how to shoot a gun. Graduating from Master's Commission with you, Mom, and Scott there. Staying at that awesome cabin in Colorado and fishing.

As I grow older, I become more and more appreciative of your commitment to our family. You have been far more than just a present father; you have given your all to us. Thank you for loving me. Thank you for supporting me in every life change (all 1000 of them). Thank you for helping me move a dozen times. Thank you for always believing in me. And thank you for your unending support.

I love you, Dad. :)

Christen

Day 18: Biggest Insecurity

Day 18: My biggest insecurity

I've waited a week to write this blog because I'm insecure about what I want to say. I tend to say too much in blogs, but I rarely allow the "unlovely" parts of me to come through in my writing. I like to pick and choose my brighter moments to showcase in writing for eternity. Instead, this blog asks for my biggest insecurity. As a woman, I have several. Some are more challenging than others. But I decided to be open and honest.

I have no picture for this blog because I already feel somewhat pathetic just writing about it. If you continue reading past this point, you are not allowed to comment with anything you think will be encouraging, "a word from the Lord," or good advice. Just read it and move on. :)

My biggest insecurity is being single in East Texas at 27.

I put in the qualifying statement of "East Texas" because I know that with the rest of the world, I am completely normal. However, in good ol' East Texas, I might as well be post-menopausal.

Growing up, everyone I knew, my parents, aunts, uncles, friends' parents, all got married in their late teens/early 20's. I have always been an early bloomer and expected to find that special someone at an early age. However, high school passed without anyone that significant; college passed with one broken heart and one short-term relationship. Post-college, I've dated off and on. One guy was extremely promising until he left me for a married woman (not promising, just so you know). And since him, I've been left completely unimpressed.

Each year has ticked by with friend after friend getting married. I am actually at a place now where I am attending far more baby showers than wedding showers. I can count on ONE hand the number of single girl friends I have.

And it's a struggle. Part of me wants to look on the bright side and think that God is saving me for someone extra special. But the other part of me feels like that kid who gets picked last for dodgeball.

It's not just marriage. I know that a marriage will not solve all my problems. It's the companionship. The camaraderie. Having someone to witness my life. Having someone to sit by at Christmas. Someone to come home to after a long day. Let me tell you, coming home to my cat....not exciting.

The reason it's such a big insecurity for me is because other people make such a big deal about it. I can go through a day and think very little about the fact that I'm single. I've never woken up to someone...I don't miss it. I've always had my time to do with as I please. I enjoy watching tv or reading, and just being alone. But when people ask if I'm married, the expression, even if they think they're being sly, is always shock. The people who cannot hide their surprise whatsoever are teenagers. Between my employees and small group kids, I've had 30+ little sets of eyes widen as I explain one more time that no, I'm neither married nor dating anyone.

It's also awkward running into people I grew up with who are on their third child (or divorce...whatever their path may be). Getting to explain that I'm not married or dating and no, I really don't have any kids, well, it's not fun.

It's also weird being this age and single. I don't fit neatly in any category. College age? Nope. Young adults? Barely. Young couples? Nope, nope. And hanging out with married couples is a drag, too. (Sorry to all my married friends.) The world doesn't have a place for late-20's singles.

And if all this isn't enough, some people think it's their God-given talent and PURPOSE to find me "Mr. Right." I really don't love being set up. It's awkward. If you really want me to meet your brother/friend/co-worker/nephew/cousin-twice-removed, find a way for us to be in the same room without telling us we're being set up. If there's a spark, we're old enough to figure it out. ;)

So, why do I tell you all this? Because the blog-a-thon demanded it. It's relentless. And because I figure this blog is about me, and this is a huge part of my life. I have somehow managed to make it through 12 years of dating without growing resentful. It is what it is. And I'm still optimistic.

Maybe 2011 will be my year. Maybe not. Either way, I continue on this path that is my life. The one God intended.

Day 17: Huge Impact

Day 17: A picture of something that has made a huge impact on your life recently

I guess my procrastination has paid off. I have big news and wanted to share, but I hated to interrupt this blog-a-thon. So, I was pleased to find out Day 17 was a chance to share about my recent life-changing event.

I work here:



Here's a little history:

In 1999, as my 16th birthday was quickly approaching, I knew I wanted a part-time job. My parents were generous, but I wanted freedom, dangit! A lady at church recommended that I apply at Chick-fil-A, but I went ahead and applied at several places. Chick-fil-A was the first place to call me. I remember exactly what I was wearing: black flowy pants, a white button down, and my platform black flipflops. I interviewed with Shane, and soon after had my first official (legal) job.**

I have so many memories of working there in high school. I tell my night time kids all the time to treasure their time at CFA because I am still friends with so many former co-workers. Just this week, I've had lunch with 2 of them, Emily and Reggie, and had a chance to see Brandon. I talk to Ikey pretty often, too. Those were 2 1/2 great years!



I moved home in 2009 to go back to school. I thought college degree + job experience would equal a fantastic job. I never thought twice about having a problem finding a job. Instead, I applied at 20+ establishments. 25 resumes, 2 awful interviews, and 3 months of zero income later...I called an old CFA friend. He said they were always looking for good workers.

With my tail figuratively between my legs, I went and applied. I wasn't 16. I was 25. I had graduated from a 4-year university, flown to dozens of countries in the world as a flight attendent, and assisted in the education process of 120 bright and up-and-coming young minds. But the truth was, our economy was in a downward spiral, and I was over-qualified for part-time jobs. No one wanted to hire me, just to see me leave in 6 months.

Thankfully, Chick-fil-A was willing to deal with me. After eating a big ol' slice of humble pie, I suited up: uniform shirt, pants, and visor. I grabbed a rag and cleaned tables, chairs, puke off the floor, and dirt off the playground. I refilled drinks and filled orders. And at the end of the day, I got my paycheck and thanked the good Lord for giving me a job.



After almost a year, I was offered a job as the assistant manager. This confident, self-proclaimed "over-qualified" woman was terrified! I was good at cleaning. I was good at taking orders. But being in charge of people? And making sure that a shift runs smoothly? And making the weekly schedule??? I was scared to death!

After much debating and prayer, I accepted the position. It meant quitting school. It meant moving to nights. It meant giving up a chunk of my social life. But it also gave me the opportunity to grow in areas I have never been stretched: like conflict resolution and personnel management. It also meant getting to work with some of the greatest young people I could ever know. I love my night time kids. They are a huge joy! And yeah, I haven't been on a date in months, and I rarely get an evening to myself, but I get to have lunch dates with old friends. And I get to sleep late. :)

The Lord has opened a new, scary, exciting door. (And the point of this blog.)

As of March 1, I will be the store manager of the East Longview Chick-fil-A!

I am beyond humbled. I feel so honored to be thought able to do this job. My bosses see things in me that I've never seen. I am so grateful that they are willing to teach me and cultivate me. I have great, huge things to learn, yet I'm willing. I have no idea what the road ahead looks like, but I'm here for some reason.

I've trusted God to lead my path my entire life. Never before, like now, have doors swung open without my knowledge. I never sought these positions. I have no idea how I got here. But I'm here. And I'm going to take every moment as a lesson. Every moment as an opportunity. God has me here for something, and I'm ready to take it head on.

Thank you to my wonderful bosses, Chuck and Shane, for believing in me. I hope to live up to your expectations. I will try every day.

Much love.

**Prior to Chick-fil-A, I worked at a tanning salon and a golf course restaurant. Both jobs paid me cash, i.e. not legal.**

Day 16: Pure Inspiration

I'm sorry I'm a bit behind on these 30 days. I'm not giving up...just have a lot on my mind right now, and it's hard to be creative.

Day 16: Someone Who Inspires You

I didn't have to think twice about who I would say inspires me. I think anyone who knows my mother would tell you she is inspirational.



Obviously I have known my mother for 27 years. However, I don't think I really got to know her until I was in college. When I left for school, she did her best to give me my space. She rarely called, but I found myself calling her. By my senior year in college, I called her every day. Even now, living in the same town, I call her every day. At 27 years old, I need to know her opinion on things. I need to tell her the latest news. She's the best friend a daughter could ever ask for.

My mother is a quiet force. She doesn't get easily excited or angry. I have heard her raise her voice probably a grand total of 5 times in my life. (Those are scary moments, by the way.) Mom conveys her frustration, disappointment, or impatience with a look. She enjoys being with her family and finds joy in taking care of them (and me). I know she loves being a mother, but she is thriving being a grandmother. Watching her with Eli and Joe is very special. I can't wait to see her someday with my kids.

Mom runs a tight ship. Everything has a place and will be in its place before she leaves the house. She's the most organized and efficient person I know. If you need organizational skills, spend one day with her. Even her sugar and flour are organized. She may not be a chef, but she's a good cook. Family dinners, whether at home or a restaurant, are important. I never remember eating dinner in the living room or in front of the tv. We eat together, at the table, with conversation.

My mom loves the Lord with all of her heart. She wakes before anyone else in the family to read the Bible. She prayed with us every night as little kids. And now, as adults, she engages us in spiritual conversation. My mom fasted when I was in a bad relationship. She prays for me when I'm going through tough times. I know she always has my back.

Mom is inspirational because she makes me want to be a better woman. I know how to keep a clean house because she taught me to sweep and dust, and how you don't need Windex to clean a mirror. I organize things, and alphabetize papers, because I know she would, too.

And someday, when it's the right time, I know I will be a good, loving wife, because all I have ever seen from my mom is how to be a faithful, loving, encouraging wife. And I know I will be a good mother, because the Lord could not have given me a better motherly example. I feel prepared for the world because I am walking in the foot steps of my mother.

I love you, Mom.

Day 15: Before I Die...

Day 15: A Picture of Something You Want to Do Before You Die

I am an adrenaline junky. I watch scary movies. I ride the tallest roller-coasters. I strive to be a paramedic one day so that when that alarm goes off and the ambulance races off for the unknown emergency, I'll be there, first on the scene.

There are a LOT of things I want to do before I die, but this is probably #1.



Someday. Hopefully soon.

Day 14: I Cannot Imagine Life Without...

Day 14: Someone You Cannot Imagine Your Life Without

I will never forget the stories Mark told about Sheila Suede when I was in high school. She was this mystery girl with a boyfriend, whom Mark could not get past. Every story somehow looped back to her. It was this amazing coincidence when they led a mission trip together. Sheila, Sheila, Sheila.

The summer after my senior year in high school, a couple of months after Sheila and her boyfriend had broken up, my family was in DFW for a pastor's conference. Mark had schemed a way to hang out with Sheila one night. After several hours, we all went to bed. However, in the middle of the night, my giddy older brother came busting into the hotel room proclaiming he had kissed her.

The rest is pretty much history.

I didn't get to know Sheila for a while. She lived in another city, and after they got married, they moved to Oklahoma City. I soon after left for Illinois. But in time, I got to know her.

And I cannot imagine my life without her.



Sheila is both beautiful inside and out. She's so little and cute, you kinda just want to stick her in your pocket and carry her around. She cares about people so much. Her kids are smart and well behaved because she showed them how. She loves her friends and serves everyone. All the time.



Sheila's funny and forgetful, and she crumbles pieces of paper. She loves high heels and has this amazing talent for crafts, like painting and sewing. She might possibly be a ninja, though of course she would never tell. I've seen her pluck mosquitos out of the air in midflight. She makes everyone in her presence feel like a million bucks.

And she's also the most humble person I know. She's probably reading this and saying, "Oh I'm not that good at painting" or "sewing" or whatever. Sheila- you are. :)



I cannot imagine my family without her. I cannot imagine any other female on earth being my sister-in-law. I'm glad to finally have a sister. She truly is my sister.

I love you, Sheila.

Day 13: My Favorite Musical Artist

Day 13: A Picture of Your Favorite Band or Artist

I have a very strange relationship with music. I love music; music moves me. I listen to music at all times of the day...while I'm showering and getting ready, while I wash dishes, at work while I count money, as I'm reading and drifting off to sleep. Having Pandora on my iPhone has been a HUGE addition to my love for music. I type in someone I love and out comes music that I equally love!

My taste in music is very wide. On my iPod is everything from George Strait to Lil Wayne to Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. I tend to favor country over everything else, but my mood usually determines the genre.

Here's the strange part...I never EVER buy new music. I can count on 2 fingers the number of CD's I've bought in the last 2 years. It's two fold...I don't know what to buy, and it never occurs to me! I have my music, and that's that.

My source of new music is friends. I thankfully have friends with GREAT taste in music who are willing to share with me in an effort to expand my horizons. When I hear a certain artist, I think of more than just the music, I always remember who got me going with that particular band/singer.

Goo Goo Dolls, The Fray, and Snow Patrol? Garrett Goode
Colbie Caillat? Casey Kowatch
The Killers; Augustana? Jeanene Justin
John Legend? Scott Hamilton
Jack Johnson? Erik Schubert
Rita Springer? Karissa Ross
Pat Green? Ryan Strait
Brad Paisley? Devin Ferguson
This could literally go on forever (or at least through my entire iPod).

I do have a favorite: Miranda Lambert! I love her for multiple reasons. She is an East Texas girl (born in my hometown of Longview!) who got her start on Nashville Star. She can do it all: write, play, and sing! I knew who she was from the beginning because everyone here was rooting for her to win the show. She didn't win then, but she's killing it now! Last night, she won her first Grammy for Best Female Country Vocal Performance. I cheered in my living room!



Even though I liked her from the start, I didn't get any of her music until my dear friend Alesha Moon burned me her CD. I was immediately hooked! Her next CD, Revolution, is one of those two CD's I mentioned earlier as actually buying.

I'm a fan.

Day 12: Something I Love

Day 12: A Picture of Something I Love

I have a deep love for many things. Christ's redemption and my family are at the top of the list. However, today I'd like to tell you about some far more shallow loves: relaxation, massages, and pretty feet.



Sadly, these are not my feet, but this is the most serene, idyllic depiction I could find. On most occasions, flowers aren't beautifully laying next to my perfectly tanned and toned legs, but this is at least how I feel.

If I could afford to get a pedicure every week, I would. It's the best 45 minutes I could ask for. And I get to walk away with perfectly shaped and painted toenails, and smooth feet that are ready to meet the world.

Hmm...makes me want to go tomorrow. :)

Day 8: Funny Picture

Day 8: A Picture That Makes You Laugh

Sorry it has taken so long to get to Day 8, but I had the perfect picture in mind, and I couldn't bring myself to change it.

As kids, Mark and I roughhoused like your average siblings. I always acted annoyed at him, and he infuriated me with his ability to fake cry. (Got me EVERY time!) But in reality, I just wanted to be like him. I passed on playing Barbies if there was ever a chance to play Ninja Turtles or Micro Machines with Mark. Until Scott was old enough to do anything, Mark and I pretty much had each other. If he was running, I wanted to run faster. If he was climbing a tree, well you'd better believe I was 2 limbs behind him. He was my best buddy, even if I didn't want to admit it.

This picture makes me laugh because it completely sums up our relationship when I was 4 years old. Mark was probably 7 or 8 here, and we're at Fireman's Park. When we lived in Graham, our parents took us to this park a lot to feed the ducks or play. It was the coolest park. Anyway, you can tell from my expression that Mark was far too silly for my liking. ;)

Love you, brother.

Day 11: Something I Hate

Day 11: Something I Hate

I went back and forth between two things I hate, but since there's not a day about my biggest pet peeve, I went with that. Had I not, I would have told you how much I hate the way I bruise. Like a peach. A peach.

Here we go...

+

=

What I hate the Most!

A wedding is the most special day for the bride and groom. Your baby, though he or she is the greatest thing to you, he is not cute or adorable or endearing while crying so loud that I can't hear the vows. Get a sitter.

:)

Day 10: Messed Up Things

Day 10: The Person You Do The Most ****** Up Things With

I've struggled to start writing this blog. My life has been anything but perfect. I had someone in mind whom I was going to write about, but I couldn't bring myself to give glory to that time in my life.

I lived a very good life until I was 23. I may be shattering some of y'all's mental images of me right now, but for about 3 years, I made bad decision after bad decision. It started small, as most sin does. It didn't seem like a big deal at first, but small things grow (like the rumor weed on Veggie Tales). It got to the place where I wasn't even being honest with myself.

About a year ago, I realized how much I hated the person I'd become. A lot of it had to do with guilt that I couldn't let go. I would ask the Lord to forgive me over and over, yet I couldn't forgive myself. I felt like I should have "known better" or been stronger.

One day in early spring, I went to the student center at my church and "had it out" with God. I realized that the unforgiveness for myself that I was carrying around was 100x's worse than the sin I had already asked forgiveness for. I committed from that day forward to let it go.

And I have.

The Lord has required big things from me. Major friendships in my life have changed. I will always treasure certain people, but I can't invest any more time. Weekend activities have changed. Family time has become huge in my life. And my prayer time has changed. I am no longer begging for forgiveness. It is a gift.

I am forgiven. I have forgiven myself. I am thankful for the life God has given me.

Much love.

Day 9: The Bestie

The picture for Day 8 is supposed to be one that makes me laugh. I have the exact picture in mind, but it's at my parents' house. So, no worries, but I'll get back to this. :)

Day 9: The Person Who Has Gotten You Through The Most

Meet Shelby. Lovingly referred to as Shelbs. Shelby is my best friend.

I have known Shelby in some capacity since 2nd or 3rd grade. Our dads were pastors in the same section, so we met at church events, and we actually went on the same mission trip in high school. One of my favorite memories of Shelby is at PK Retreat (pastors' kids retreat) one year when she was making items from duct tape. She made flip flops, wallets, etc. from all the different colors of duct tape available. Random. That's Shelby for you. :)

During my freshman year in college, Shelby went to Master's Commission in Florida. I really don't remember how we got connected and started emailing, but we emailed a lot that year. The following year, I went to Master's in Illinois. The year after that, Shelby and I both attended Southwestern Assemblies of God University. That year, we ran in the same circles, had a few classes together, and finally had a chance to really be friends. Shelby is the easiest person on earth to be friends with.

During my junior year in college, we got to be roommates! That was one of the best years of my life! We shared clothes. I borrowed Shelby's clothes. We danced; we laughed; we sat on the outside couch and did homework. We became great friends.

After college, we both did our own things for a while, but I ended up in McKinney, and Shelbs in Red Oak. During those 18 months, we became best friends. We had sleep overs, cried over boys, met for coffee (even if it was almost 45 minutes each way), and drove to LA and back. Without stopping to sleep either way. M.I.A. will always remind me of that trip.

This is Shelbs and I in L.A.:

During my time in McKinney, Shelby met the love of her life. I am so thankful to have been able to be around during that time. Here we are at her wedding to JOSH!

This is at the rehearsal dinner. Hate the bangs, love the picture:

So, where was I going with all of this? Oh yes, the person who has gotten me through the most. I cannot imagine surviving the last 3 years without her. She lets me be an open book. She takes me at face value and doesn't run when I make stupid mistakes. The song "That's What Friends Are For" is now playing in my head. :) So glad to have her in my life.

Shelbs- love you. Thankful every single day for you. Forever besties.

Day 7: Most Treasured Item

Day 7: My Most Treasured Item

When my birthday comes around each year, I rarely have a defined idea of what I really want. Sometimes it might be clothes, maybe a new pair of shoes, or a People Magazine subscription.

But when I turned 16 years old, I don't think my parents even asked. Instead, I was surprised with a beautiful white gold ring with my birth stone: sapphires!

I have always loved this ring. Sadly, I don't get the opportunity to wear it much since I don't wear jewelry to work, but I try to always remember to wear it on days off.

I have always gotten a lot of compliments on it, too, and anytime I forgot to wear it in college, people would question me about it. It made an impression.

For the rest of my life, this ring will always remind me of my parents. It is very special to me.

Day 5: Favorite Memory

Day 5: My Favorite Memory

The summer before 2nd grade, my parents took Mark and I to Wichita Falls to eat at Olive Garden, as well as to change our lives forever.

It's become a bit of a joke in my family that whenever we have a super special dinner, there's probably going to be a big announcement, too. We've moved enough to know that it's perfectly acceptable to question all out-of-the-usual meals.

Anyway, this particular meal was nice. We were living in Graham, and Olive Garden wasn't exactly down the road, or in the budget. But as we sat at the table in the corner with windows right behind Mom and Dad, I think Mark and I were both somewhat suspicious. And then it came...

"We're having a baby!"

I don't remember what my reaction was- excited, shrieking- who knows. But I remember that table and those windows and where I was sitting. That's how a lot of my childhood memories work- just pictures.

The coming months were very exciting. I loved feeling the baby move in Mom's tummy. We talked to him all the time, decorated his room, and made lots of plans. Well, as many plans as you can make without knowing the sex. We didn't find out until birth, but my parents went ahead and picked out names for both sexes: Scott Wesley Carter or Mary Elizabeth Carter.

By December of 1991, I was beside myself excited! I couldn't decide if I wanted a brother or a sister. A sister seemed fun because she would be on my side against Mark, but a brother...

My parents had decided if the baby was a girl, Mark would get to hold her first, but if it was a boy, I would get to hold him first. So, clearly, I wanted a brother. To be able to hold the baby before Mark, I would take a brother for the rest of my life. This was a simple choice.

As Christmas approached, my parents and Mom's doctor both wanted the baby out in time for the big jolly holiday. Mom was induced on December 19. Not only was I about to get a new sibling, but I also got to skip school! Score! However, labor did not progress very quickly. We spent all day, and all night, at the hospital. There are so many pictures of us playing cards and taking naps. It was a long 24 hours.

Finally around 4 a.m. on December 20, little Scott Wesley came screaming out! I was sitting in the hallway in my Nannie's lap when we heard Dad shout, "It's a boy!" I remember Nannie immediately burst into tears. At the time, I wasn't sure if she was happy about Scott being a boy. Now, looking back, I think she was relieved he was a boy. Scott is named after Nannie's 2nd son, Scott, who passed away over 35 years ago.

After Mom and Dad took turns holding him, Mom carefully passed him off to me. As a little 2nd grader, this was the coolest moment of my life. This baby, this tiny little thing, was my baby brother. I intended to hold him, feed him, change him, and care for him forever. Sometimes, I feel like I still do. ;)

Mark got his turn eventually, but I made sure to stretch out my turn as long as possible.

After the excitement of the moment wound down, Nannie and Granddaddy took us home to get some sleep. We got to skip a SECOND day of school! However, the day Scott was born was my school Christmas party, so Nannie took me for about an hour to see my friends, open my present, and eat all the goodies. I also got to tell my class about my new baby brother. I was on cloud nine.

Scott's not so tiny anymore. Actually, he's the tallest person in my immediate family. But he'll always be my baby brother. I still boss him around, question his actions, and give him unsolicited advice, but I love him unconditionally.

I'm thankful every day for December 20, 1991.

Day 6: Switching places

I'm taking the liberty to skip Day 5 (Favorite Memory) until I have the opportunity to go to my parents' house. I have all my personal pictures since junior high, but I don't have any pictures from childhood at my apartment. I promise to eventually get back to Day 5. :)

Day 6: The Person You'd Want to Trade Places with for One Day

I went back and forth with this entry. There are several people in my life whom I think have interesting jobs or live in exciting places, but I would hate for anyone to think I'm secretly pining for their husbands (which I'm not), so I couldn't bring myself to pick a friend. (I'm neurotic.)

I decided to go with a celebrity whom I think is beautiful, talented, and works hard for what she has: Natalie Portman.



I first remember Natalie in the movie "Where The Heart Is." I was mesmerized by her and her talent. Instead of chick-flicks, she makes "V for Vendetta" and "The Other Boleyn Girl" and "Black Swan."

She's a ballerina and continues to take lessons.

She has a degree from Harvard.

And she's engaged to Benjamin Millepied. It would be worth your time to look up his picture. ;)

If we switched places for one day, I would want it to be on a day that she's at ballet lessons. You could say I have some unquenched childhood dreams. And then maybe after ballet practice, dinner with Benjamin. hehe

Day 4: My nights

Day 4: My Nights

I sat down before work to write Day 4's blog when I realized it was focusing on my nightly routine/habits. It just didn't seem right to write a blog about the night time in the middle of the day time.

My days start around 9 a.m. I get up and work out, then eat, shower, and head to work. Most days I work from 2 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. It's long evenings, but I'm glad that the last couple of hours is counting money and inventory. I get a chance to get my thoughts together from the work day. When I finally get home, against what you'd think, I'm wide awake! If I were to go to bed, I'd lay awake for hours. So instead, this is what my nights look like:



I come home and get in my pj's, then read or watch tv, and write my daily blog.

My nights aren't that exciting to other people, but for me, they're the best part of the day. I'm a night owl (thus the 2 a.m. blog). I would so much rather be awake now than 6 a.m. I like the quiet. I like that I have no where else to be. It's my "me" time.

Day 3: Love this show

Day 3: My Favorite Show

This one was tough because I like a lot of different TV shows, but I'd say I look forward to America's Next Top Model the most. (Friends will always be the winner, but I was thinking shows still on the air.)



I started watching this show in college, and I don't think I've missed a season, or even an episode. I live vicariously through these people. I might even be guilty of practicing my model faces or walk...but let's not go there.

This show brought people together in college. We gathered each week to watch it. I miss those times terribly.

Day 2: 20 years and counting

Day 2: The person you have been closest with the longest

I couldn't choose one person for this blog. My family moved to Graham, Texas when I was in 1st grade. That year I met Kelli Cantwell and Joanie Ramsey. About a year later, a new associate pastor came to our church, and he had a daughter just a year older than me. Angela Bazan's family stayed with us for a couple of weeks while their house was getting ready. During the next couple of years before we moved to Longview, Kelli, Angela, Joanie and I were basically inseparable.


This picture is from the Christmas of 2009 at Kelli's house. This is the last time we were all together. Too long. :(


This is from Joanie's 16th birthday party (I'm pretty sure lol). I really love this picture.


This picture was the last night of church camp in 2000. I was wearing Joanie's overalls, which I loved! This is a special picture to me.


This is from the same church camp right after lunch.

I met Kelli at church and became instant friends. We spent most days together. Before school, her mom dropped her off at my house, and we ate breakfast together, then walked or rode the bus to school. After school, we usually took the bus to her house and played til I HAD to go home. Kelli and I begged for sleep overs every night, and one time got the CRAP scared out of us while riding bikes and finding some strange man hiding behind a bush. EEK! I have hundreds of letters we've written to each other (before email), and most childhood memories involve Kel. KC + CC = BFF ;)

I also met Joanie in 1st grade. She lived just a few blocks from my house on Cresent Drive. She had the craftiest mom in the world, and I loved going to her house because her mom let us paint or make all sorts of cool things. I was always insanely jealous of Joanie's American Girl doll. I still have a pillow case I sponge painted at her house.

I met Ang in 3rd grade. She was loud and crazy and also lived within a bike ride distance of my house. She was older and always got the cute guys. lol! Angela and I were also college roommates for a year. She is one of the most bubbly, positive people I've ever known, and I love when she spells words instead of saying them. hehe

I'm proud of my friends. I miss my friends. We don't see each other entirely enough. Angela and Joanie are back in Graham, which is 5 hours from here, and they both have brand new little babies. Kelli is near McKinney, which was nice when I lived there, but now I don't get up that way.

However, when we all got together for Christmas of '09, it was like we hadn't missed a day. We laughed, cried, hugged, stayed up til all hours of the night talking about boys (on my end, husbands for them), ate lots of food, and played games. It was amazing.

Ang, Kel, and Joanie- I love yall. Thank you for being my friend through thick and thin.

30 Days of Me: Day 1

I have been challenged to participate in the 30 Days of Me blog-a-thon. My cousin, Karen, and Aunt Angie are well into it, and well, I just can't be shown up. ;) Each day will include a picture and some random stories or facts. Stick around for some little-known nuggets about Christen.

Day 1: A Picture of Yourself and 10 Facts



I chose this picture for a number of reasons. It was taken at my cousin Brandy's wedding during the summer of 2006, and I'd venture to say that was one of the most pivotal years of my life. This picture reminds me of both really good and really bad decisions. It also reminds me of how much I love my nephew, Eli. Eli and I share a special bond that goes back, literally to the womb. I lived with Mark and Sheila while Sheila was pregnant. I got to feel some of the first kicks, I talked to him, bought him presents, and was there for all the delivery false warnings, and the actual delivery. I've watched him grow up and change into the most amazing little boy. This picture is silly, but I cherish it. He's my favorite person on earth. I also chose this picture because I remember feeling very pretty that day. As a typical girl, every day is NOT a good hair/dress/face/anything day. It's nice when they all align.....and you actually get a picture of it.

10 Facts about Me:

1. I have gotten to this place in life by, what seems like, accident. I never intended to move back to Longview, or work in the food/customer service industry. I'm glad to know God has a plan so much bigger than I could ever see. It's been an adventure.

2. I've moved 21 times. I have literally packed boxes, put them in moving vehicles, unpacked boxes, and started over. 21 times. I think that 21st time cured me of my love for it.

3. If you would have asked me at 18, I would have told you I'd be married by 21 and have kids by 25. Instead I have a cool apartment and a cat named Henry. Those other things will come in time. I'm so glad they didn't come in my timing.

4. I will forever love a church called Longview First Assembly for loving my family for 15 years. We literally gave it our blood, sweat, and tears. We even lived there (clothes hung in the baptistry and all) for a few weeks. No matter who comes or goes, it has a special place in my heart.

5. I want more than anything to go to Egypt and see the pyramids. All of the craziness that's been going on over there the past few days/weeks has me sick to my stomach. If something happens to all the history, I will regret not going sooner the rest of my life.

6. I think I'm a nice mix of country and city girl. I've been known to shoot skeet in high heels.

7. I have a Bachelor's in English, Associates in Bible, and Associates in Psychology, and I'm a licensed EMT. Though it may have lapsed, I'm also a FAA certified flight attendant. I love school, and I don't believe in boring lives.

8. I can't imagine life without my best friend.

9. I've grown out, cut, and donated my hair to Locks of Love. Twice. I don't regret either time.

10. My insecurities have caused me to type and erase this tenth fact about four times.

Remember that one time I wanted to be a...

It's never a huge surprise when I decide to pursue a new career. You're all used to it by now. What I'm not used to: not getting it my way.

A year and a half ago, I moved back to Longview to attend EMT/Paramedic school. As I completed 3 semesters of school, I got a job at Chick-fil-A to pay the bills. And it's been a rollercoaster ever since.

I worked for CFA for 2 1/2 years in high school. I loved my high school job, but going back at 25 was humiliating! I hated it and truly questioned my decision to move home. But little did I know, God had a lot up his sleeve.

This past July, I was asked to become the assistant manager of CFA. It threw a huge wrench in my plans. The focus being on "my." I couldn't take the job and do school. After much deliberation, the job won out. And boy, did I not know what I was getting myself into. The first few weeks, I was a mess- stressed, frustrated, scattered. But thankfully, my bosses saw something in me I never knew was there. Honestly, no idea. It's been a truly humbling experience. And I love it. I love who I work for, and who I work with. I love going to work. Who knew chicken could be so much fun?

Next thing I knew, July became November...and the Longview Fire Department was accepting applications for their apprenticeship. They're paying for 6 eligible candidates to complete fire academy and paramedic school. This is what I moved home for. This is what I one day want to do! So I applied.

200 applications were received. And 157 were filled out correctly. I was part of that 157.

Those 157 were invited to take a written test over things like reading comprehension, math, and auditory listening skills. 115 candidates showed up for the test. I was part of that 115.

Out of those 115 testers, the top 22 scores were taken and invited to take the physical ability test. I was part of that 22.

This morning 21 apprentice candidates showed up in the 20 degree weather to complete a physical agility course of 11 stations within the 7 minute limit. The course had everything from raising a 50 foot ladder with a rope to pulling a 175 lb sled about 40 yards to crawling through an attic space on 2X4 boards without slipping or going below the rafters. I completed the course! In 7 min 42 seconds. 42 seconds over the time limit. My candidacy phase ended right there on the freezing cold asphalt, in the midst of sweat, tears, and big bruises (no blood thankfully).

And I was fine with it. The feeling when it was over, besides exhaustion, was complete and total peace. I had struggled with the decision of applying because I do enjoy my job so. About 2 weeks ago, I surrendered it to the Lord. "Lord, what happens, happens. I trust you will place me where you want me."

So though it may seem I missed something amazing by 42 seconds, I have to see that the Lord reassured me that he has me where he wants me for this season of my life.

And I'm pretty fond of this season.