Oops

I lied. Here is the real link: http://silverliningscatlin.wordpress.com

New Blog!

Hello! I started my new blog (finally). I'll probably keep changing things, but here is the link:

http://silverlinings.wordpress.com/

One Last Post

So. It's been awhile. I think I should update you on my life. 

First was my last week of school. Not only was it my last week of studying history, which is a sad concept, but it was also finals week, my birthday and graduation. On Thursday night we had everyone over to a beach house and Bailey and I got to have a nice graduation celebration with friends. The next day my family drove over, and Saturday was graduation. It was only once I actually started decorating my hat ("Party like it's 1773") and putting on my gown did I start getting excited and realize that this was a special moment. And it really was. Although I had a few episodes of boredom and extreme heat exhaustion, family and friends, drunk graduates, and favorite professors really made the day special. 

Secondly, swim lessons. Like usual, I make a big fuss about a pretty great job. The highlight of the two weeks had to be a little boy screaming continuously for 30 minutes "I have to go poo poo" in an attempt to escape his lesson. 

Third, quality time with friends and family. I got to spend long nights chatting with Sarah, and was completely blessed to have a graduation party with Bailey and Sarah where old friends and family got together for a night. Also wonderful was my family's new dedication to exercise, which saw the four of us plus a very chubby Xena walking/jogging Horseshoe in the mornings. We ended the two weeks with a hike around Pinecrest Lake, which brought back great childhood memories of fishing, oreos, and the "Enchanted Forest." 

So. I feel like we are up to date. I arrived back in San Luis Obispo last Monday, am enjoying a visit from my parents, and have given up on a job in pursuit of more swim lessons later on in August. Also, this will be my last blog, as my next one will be posted on my new site. Unfortunately, I can't seem to remember my password for that one, so I will have to post that on this blog in the next day or so. 

Time to Work

Today I am battling my senior project. It almost feels like I am wrestling it into submission. At the moment, it might be winning. It's a close call though.

Big News...kind of

I have very exciting news. I am making a new blog! It's wordpress this time. I know, it probably doesn't make sense, considering how I have abandoned my current blog this quarter. However, it's like in the beginning of school when you have to throw out all your old binders and notebooks before you can even consider September. Or when you just have so much do to that the first step just has to be cleaning your room. Plus, I think I like the look of wordpress more. 

Last weekend Sarah came to visit. I don't remember much about the weekend except the food. Like usual, it consumed most of our time. Burgers at Sylvesters, ice cream sandwiches at Cowboy Cookies, milkshakes in Morro Bay, and a delicious homemade lemon pasta (courtesy of Pioneer Woman). Like usual, it was wonderful to have time together and catch up in ways that you just can't do over the phone. Plus, there's really nothing that says "I love you" more than a 4 hour drive with only a cheesy book on tape as company. 

Love you Sarah!

William Carey

William Carey, know as the "father of modern missions" packed up his family and life and went to live in India in 1793, one of the first to break the ice in the indifference there was towards missions. It took 7 years for him to see one person come to know Jesus. He spent 40 years in India, and translated the entire Bible into 6 languages. 

On his gravestone it reads: 

William Carey

Born August 17th, 1761

Died June, 1834

A wretched, poor and helpless worm, 

On thy kind arms I fall. 

Who am I to think that I am anything without God? I am only a worm. No matter what I do, what I accomplish, it is only through God's grace and power working through a weak, rebelling body. Isn't it infinitely better to recognize this and live for Him, instead of continuing in a selfish, petty life? Wouldn't it be better if my life revolved around God and what HE wanted of my life rather than what I wanted? Whether it is comfort or glory or adventure or stability that I desire, in the end I have to realize that I am nothing more than a worm, welcomed into the arms of a mighty God.  

Showers

There's really nothing better than falling asleep in a clean room, with still-damp hair from a much needed shower. Suddenly, every muscle in my body is completely relaxed. I don't even know the meaning of tense. All the bonfire-smokiness has left my hair and replaced by some yummy, floral scent. Why don't I take night showers more often??

hello again

Well, I am completely settled back into life in slo. Actually, buried is more like it. After two weeks of procrastination because, after all "it's only the first/second week of the quarter," things have really started to pile up. Despite the looming dread of senior project research and essay writing, the weekend was a good one, with a refreshing cleaning day on saturday and a bonding girl night with some church friends. I have also become quite preoccupied with finding a job, which I am guessing is just a by-product of my deep fear of actually getting homework done. So far I am thinking nanny/bookseller/waitress/caterer/any place that would have me. Actually, scratch that, I refuse to work for campus dining. 

Through all of this work though, God has continued to amaze me this week with the truth of the resurrection. Sometimes, Easter just seems to pass by with a crowded church service and a colored, chocolate-filled basket. This time though, I feel like the awe of the event is still with me. Jesus could have gotten down from the cross at any time. But he didn't. Not only that, but it wasn't just physical pain that he suffered. He endured so much more than nails and taunting and suffocation. He, who was God and knew God and lived saturated in his presence was completely separated from him. I can't even comprehend that. It is awful and amazing and I just can't get over it. And honestly, I hope I never do. I have this habit of thinking of the crucifixion and almost feeling pity for Jesus. Instead though, I should feel awed at his might, determination, and love for us.

Anyway. I'll get off my soap box. Those are just thoughts that have been running through my mind lately. 

i wud lke 2 dedicat ths post to colin brwn who thru gntl remndr of ma lazines gt me 2 wrte aftr mre thn 2 weks of absnse :)  (see, it really is that difficult to read)

Reunion (with friends, Tesco's, and hummus)

My first full day in back in Stirling was a nice reunion of what I love so much about this town: friends. Church was nice, and meeting little Anna Lucy Boydell definitley made it a highlight of the day. So so precious, made only more so by the beautiful family that she was brought into. Other than that, I got to see a good amount of my church friends and had the opportunity to sing along once again to worshop songs that are impossible to learn.

Another highlight of the day had to be Tesco's. Let's just say distance really makes the heart go fonder. Crowded, low ceilinged (I think I made that word up), and impossible to find anything in, I used to hate it. Suddenly, it's everything I ever dreamed of in a grocery store. Though, that might be just because it contains a certian Red Pepper Pesto hummus that I would die for. Seriously, it's that good.

Anyway. Past the hummus. Tonight was spent at Colin's, where he made up a quiz for us. The Scottish are very in the their quizzes. I have to say I was quite successful, contributing to about 5 out of the 80 questions, when usually I'm lucky if I know 1.

So...I'm not sure if anyone but my mom really desired a play-by-play of my day. But, I just happen to be in the mood to write, so that's what you get. Tomorrow: St. Andrew's!

Scotland!!!

I'm back in Scotland, and it's amazing. First of all, can I just say I have wonderful wonderful friends. I spent the night chatting with Mari, Rebekka, Julia, and Kendra, and just love them more and more. I can't get over the fact that I am really seeing them again. Secondly, I am remembering all over again what I love so much about Scotland...which is pretty much everything. I love the delicious bread that molds ridiculously fast. The stunning landscape of snow-spotted hills and sheep-scattered farm land. I love Twinnings tea made in Mari and Rebekka's flat (never as good as it is then). The accent, the typical British face, the familiar shops and restaurants. It's late, and I haven't slept in way too long, so I'll end this with a funny story. Most young American women swoon over the British men in movies (I admit to be one of them). Getting off the plane today though, I was reminded just what a typical one looks like. Not as idyllic as it seems. He had a pink striped shirt with shiny buttons at the wrist, pin-striped pants (which should only be worn by a select few men), and long, nice shoes. That, above all, made me realize I was finally back.

The Count Down

Four days until I see my beautiful beautiful friends again. Three days until I get on a plane and take off for Scotland. Two days until I start packing. And one day until I finish finals. I just don't know if I can wait that long!!!

Breathe

I feel like I am one big jumble of emotions, activities, and to-do lists. Thankfully, those to-do lists are growing shorter and more enjoyable. I spent a little time this morning processing on the back porch. Sometimes, it's so good to get a little quiet. 

I'm antsy over Scotland. 

Loving the Wesley House. 

Hating the little time I have with Steph and Laura. 

I'm intrigued with my senior project 

Yet frustrated with how little time I am able to give it. 

I am worried by next quarter's work load

and disappointed with myself for the little time I've spent with God lately. 

I'm impatient for the news of new babies

and extremely happy over the new warm weather. 

I want to give my all...

yet don't see how I can.

So. Here I am. I think I might just take a week off, go visit some friends for a week of tea and biscuits, and get a little breath in. 

Time at Home

Home is a sweet place, especially during the spring. There's nothing like white blossoms, green hills, and big blue skies to welcome you home. Well, except for puppy hugs. And dad hugs. And cozy fireplaces that invite you to read for hours in front of them. Either way, this weekend was a great way to reconnect and love family. I was able to take a successful walk with the dogs, get my Wedding Date fix in for the next few months, and made doughnuts for the first time. And now I am back in SLO, enjoying these last two weeks despite the loom of finals, and dreaming of Scotland. 10 days!!!

Rediscovery

Today I rediscovered the morning. Bright sunlight on raindrops has to be one of the best ways to start the day. That and going to Sally Loo's with Anna for the most delicious maple scone and chai tea. Besides writing blogs and facebook messages, I have even accomplished a bit of homework, making the pressure of the ever-looming senior project fade just a tad. Plus, it is only 10 am! Usually, my day's accomplishments of the day would have consisted of getting out of bed and munching on some Raisin Bran. I think I'll give myself a little pat on the back.

Happy Birthday Anna

I am blessed. By a beautiful girl that God decided to allow me to befriend. At first it was chats through lunches and coffee dates. But then I got so much more. I got late night chats, big belly laughs, and small little jokes.  Anna, you are a force. You are wise and witty and...elegant :) A night of wine glasses, desserts, and twinkle lights was the perfect way to celebrate someone like you. Happy birthday!

(And I just have to clarify, I didn't drink the wine.)

True Worship

Last night we spiced up the biweekly house meeting by having some worship afterwards. I wish I could give you an image of  it in writing, but sadly, my attempt will fall short. Imperfect people singing imperfect songs with anything but perfect voices.  But God. He takes the feeble attempt that we make, and through grace turns it into something beautiful.

Learning How to Rest

Ok, Anna. I am taking your advice, gathering my thoughts, and writing a blog. Because really, lately this site has been a sad excuse for a blog. So. My thoughts. I need to learn how to rest properly. This quarter has been a busy blur, where I feel as if nothing I do gets done well. And I feel God saying, slow down. Breathe. Breathe by taking a weekend to go down to Pasadena. By taking an hour out of my day to journal at a sun-filled Sally Lou's. Too often though, it's been looking like watching episodes of Grey's Anatomy on my computer, or browsing facebook profiles. So, I need to figure something out. How to take that time to rest, but do it properly. In a way that brings meaning to my day, and gives me that little boost to make it through the nitty-gritty. 

Another Weekend Post

I can't believe how long it's been since my last post. Yikes. Sorry. This weekend was a great resting weekend, when really, I should have been sitting in front of my computer writing. Oops. After four (yes, my M-Th schedule has me spoiled) days of stress, study, and running around, it's hard to motivate myself to do anything productive. Instead, I enjoyed long chats with roomies, baking disappointingly bad lemon bundts, and a night of Jim Gaffigan and Ellen Degeneres that left my cheeks sore from laughter.  I did have one achievement, which consisted of the CBEST. That brought me back to sophomore year and PSATs. Which is sad, considering this is not a practice test, but one that all teachers need to take. (Watch, after saying that, I won't pass it.) Anyway, here comes another packed week, all the more so because I had this amazing weekend. And this time, I will try to take a little time for blog posts :) 

An Ideal Four Days

What makes the perfect four day weekend? Well, for one, the fact that it is four days long. Other than that, fresh picked cuties, movies during the afternoon, lots of baking, thunderstorms, lunches with friends, and late night chats. Mass games of Cranium, adorable Irish actors in theaters, procrastination, and spontaneous naps. And what better way to ease into the week than a rainy day and only one hour of class?

A Chat over Hot Chocolate

Thank you Jaimie Bughao. For understanding that I want and love and need to talk about Scotland. For sitting with me and probing my mind and being genuinely interested for hours. Thank you thank you thank you. I promise, when one of my friends gets back from study abroad, I will do just that for them. 

Girl Time

Not much sweetens up an otherwise icky day like girl talk. First through little notes of love from Norway and Alaska, then an hour curled up in UU chairs with Laura. To end the night, the girls in the house got together for our first ever girl time. It was quite an event. It included two new relationship announcements, lots of giggles, tears, and nail polish. I am so glad I'm a girl :)

Two Worlds

 Two completely different worlds, both absolutely amazing. 

What If?

Today I was asked the question: What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail? Because, really, in Christ, we can't. Not in the long run. So I have been thinking about it, and have come up with a little list. 

I would go hang-gliding.

Sing karaoke.

Start running.

Make dinners from Julia Child's collection.

Tell that guy I like him.

Share God's truth with a stranger, a friend, a family member. 

Be myself from the get go. 

Try surfing. 

Love without inhibitions. 

Write a book.

Be a better listener.

I would dive in head first into knowing God, not just knowing about Him. I would shed all those things I have spent my life worrying about, and start focusing on glorifying God. 

Sunny Days

I like the cold. I really do. I like bundling up in hats and scarves and jackets, preparing for a blustery adventure. I love huddling close to friends on walks back to warm kitchens, and the tea and fireplaces that warm you up once you get there. I think ice-skating and the snow and even heavy rain are extremely exciting things. But oh my gosh, I love the sun. I didn't even realize it was something I missed until I got back. San Luis Obispo isn't even pretending like it is winter. Instead, it is fully giving in to blue skies and warm subtle winds. And it's heavenly. Sitting on the lawn between classes, under pretty clouds and eucalyptus trees, it seems crazy that I could ever miss chilly Scotland. But I do. I have traded in my boots for flip-flops, and I'm not sure how I feel about it. 

A New Home

I am currently sitting at my huge dining room table, playing wikipedia wars, and wasting away my first Monday night back as I get to know my new housemates. I've met almost all of them, but it is pretty overwhelming to think of really bonding with all of them. Still, how fun is this? It already seems like I have a built in group of friends....even though I don't know all of them yet. 

Getting Back to California

Things to Miss:

Bundling up

Scones

Beautiful hills

Stone

Pubs with friends

Baileys and White Russians

Constant offers of tea 

New words and phrases

3:11 Bible Study

Chats with Ros

Things to Welcome Back:

Open, sunny skies. 

Delicious food (sorry Scotland).

Family and friends

Ranch dressing and Mexican food (not together).

Free laundry

GAP

Country music

The freedom of a car.

No exchange rate