When I Thought I Knew Everything

I was reminded today how naive teenagers really can be. First off, I must explain that I truly believe kids are underestimated. They have a lot of really great thoughts and ideas that too often go unnoticed. Even though this is very true, they are still young and have a lot of learning to do.

In no way do I think I have it all figured out. In fact, the only thing certain is that I have a lot of figuring out to do. One thing is for sure - I am much smarter than when I was a teenager.

Sometimes I just sit back and listen to kids. I am often surprised by their bluntness and.... to be honest, lack of filter. I chuckle to myself when they talk about going to college and all the things they "will never do." I especially find humor when kids have specific ages for when life events are "supposed to happen." You know what I'm talking about... "I'll graduate by 22, get married at 24, and by the age of 27, I'll be having my second child." Good luck???

For those that it has worked out according to plan, more power to ya! But, I have a feeling that, more often than not, this is not the case. Part of me is a little jealous of the naive attitude of kids. Many of them have no idea that their plans could take a different direction. As much as I want to explain to them the uncertainties and unplanned aspects of life, I know better than to rob them of their innocence.

Thinking back to when I thought I knew everything can be entertaining; however, then I remember all of the awkward moments, confusion, and even heartache that comes along with the delicate age. Each part of life is filled with learning. No matter what age we are, no matter where we are at in life, we are always moving forward. We are always making memories and gaining knowledge to help us become better people. I am glad that I was reminded that every age is precious.

Unanswered Prayers

Last week was filled with restless nights of sleep. There were a lot of reasons that contributed to this, but it was some time on Wednesday night that I literally asked God out loud, "How many times do I have to pray about this?" In the middle of my frustration, I finally fell asleep. I am amazed how much better situations seem to feel in the morning; however, that question continued to linger. 

I felt a little guilty about overreacting and questioning God's path. I know that things will work out according to His plan, but sometimes I feel impatient and confused. On Thursday morning, I read an email I received from my sister. She expressed some of the same concerns with prayer. She mentioned that she was trying to do everything right, but things still didn't seem to be going her way. Can I get an amen? As much as I wanted to give her an answer, I was at a loss of words. I could only console her by saying that we must be patient and some things simply take time. 

On my way home tonight, I heard the song "Unanswered Prayers." I thought about the words and all of the times I had asked God for something, only to not get it. In one way or another, it worked out - many times even better than I could imagine. It brought me back to the notion, "God's plan is much greater than anything I could ever dream." 

I continue to wait patiently in many aspects of my life. I am human, so this can be tough; however, I know the importance of trusting God. I know His great love, and I believe there are great things ahead of me. 

Why I Love Iowa

While I was driving home yesterday, I realized I was tired of the radio. I flipped on an ESPN talk radio program and soaked in my drive. I was approaching my hometown, and as I met a Ford pickup, the driver flipped up his pointer finger. The infamous "farmer wave." I smiled and started thinking about all of the reasons why I love living in Iowa. Here are a few for you reading pleasure:

1. Farmer waves. As I said, there is just something about the fact that those farmers will wave at anyone. Why? Because in small town Iowa, you probably do know everyone. Boy do I love this. It really just makes you feel like you are home.

2. Jaywalking.... what's that? Enough said.

3. School pride. I really felt this last week when I was tailgating at the Hawkeye game. People show so much pride when it comes to "their team." Whether it is your high school football team or your college alma mater, there is something about wearing your team's colors proudly. It gives me goosebumps every time.

4. Fall harvest. The smells that begin as soon as summer fades into fall are crisp and refreshing. It's the time when you realize it has become sweatshirt weather. Seriously, this is the best time of year.

5. Corn on the cob. Yea, I went there. I realize this is very cliche, but seriously, have you ever had it? Get. In. My. Belly.

6. Getting lost in the landscape. Once you leave the city, it doesn't take much time before you are driving "in the middle of nowhere." There aren't people at every corner. You are simply able to enjoy your surroundings without the busyness of city streetlights and deadlines. There is something to be said about the slowness of small town Iowa.

7. Cowboy boots. Anyone can wear them anywhere. I'm the kind of person that only sports boots when they go with my outfit, but there are plenty of people that throw them on daily. While I will probably never do this, I love the fact that it is completely acceptable. Cowboy up!

8. Everyone is family. For the most part, people care. I don't know if this is something that can be found everywhere, but I surely feel it in Iowa. People are there to help out, and support systems are vast. It's a great feeling knowing that even when my biological family isn't around, there is someone nearby that cares.

Have a spectacular weekend!!

A Few Simple Words

I am a reflective person. Sometimes this is a curse, causing me to over-think and even worry; however, it also helps me to stop and soak up the goodness in life. Yesterday, I tailgated with a bunch of friends and cheered on the Hawks to a victory! Whoop, whoop!! Once again, I was reminded how small of a world it really is. I had a few conversations with old friends, new friends, and acquaintances. It never seizes to amaze me how many wonderful people are in my life. I am continually reminded that people are good.

I had a conversation with someone that was a part of "another life." I don't talk to really any of those people anymore, which is funny because I used to spend so much time with them. It's incredible how people grow and grow apart. We talked about life and some of our mutual friends. I was touched by the fact that this person really seemed to care. He was attentive and didn't make it awkward. Without knowing, he shared kind words with me.

Another friend was walking by our tailgate, and she stopped to visit. It was so good to see her. She asked about a few things and said, "You seem stressed." I was surprised that she picked up on this, mostly because I didn't realize it was so apparent. I shared with her, and she listened. I'm thankful for her; I really don't see her enough.

The tailgate I was at was full of families... Cyclone fans (barf). Time and time again they welcome me with open arms. They never forget to invite me, and I feel comfortable with all of them. Yesterday, one of my friends simply said, "Well, you're already a part of the family." I smiled because I knew it was true, and I smile now as I remember.

All in all, I have done a pretty good job of "taking a step back" this weekend. After nine hours of sleep, I am ready to tackle the day. Happy Sunday, folks!

Taking a Step Back

I am not a huge fan of complaining. Saying, "I'm tired" or "Is it Friday yet?" all week long just doesn't do it for me. I try to counteract these comments with something positive or even a smile, but sometimes I can't help but want to shout, "Amen, sista!!" Well, this week was one of those weeks.

I'm not going to go into the details. That is far from professional, and I also don't need to rehash it all. I have survived, and that is all that matters. On my way home, after shedding a few tears to my mom, I realized that it is time to take a step back. This weekend school and any other troubling thoughts need to hang out on the back burner. While it is easy for me to shove my school bag in my office so I don't review lesson plans and grade papers, it's harder to allow my mind to rest. If only there was an "off" switch for certain thoughts and worries that make their way into my brain. At any rate, I'm going to do my best to tailgate with friends, enjoy the weather, and spend some time alone. I am not even going ot think about school until sometime Sunday afternoon.

As I prepare for my "taking a step back weekend," I began thinking about how important this really is. It's the same reason why people take vacations or even go on weekend get-a-ways. We all need a little time away from work, school, and even certain people. We are not designed to have our minds and bodies going on high gear all the time. I then started thinking about what the Bible says. God gave us the Sabbath for this very reason. He created humans and knows full well what we are capable of. It's important that we remember to take time off from the busyness of life. We need time to focus on Him and relax.

I hope you find yourself taking advantage of the weekend and remembering the importance of the Sabbath.