...Ugh...

A list of all time greatest songs

2011-12-29T19:22:00.000-08:00

The next topic I decided to go with is all time songs. It was a little bit harder to choose single songs because there's something about the completeness of an album that makes it easier to define as a great. But there are certain songs that stand out more than the rest. Here goes nothin'

8. The New Noise - Refused: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mzf1C6OazC4

When Refused titled their album The Shape Of Punk To Come it was almost like a prophecy. Although the style is a little raw, this album, in particular this song really paved the way for so many bands. The highlight of the song is the break near the end. They use the effect of a cheering crowd that give this song a sound unlike any other.

7. Apprehension - Manchester Orchestra: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DFZC5-0XwU8

As I mentioned in my previous post, this song, after years of listening to Manchester Orchestra, shot it's way right to the top of my all time favorite Manchester Orchestra songs. It's a shock to me that Andy Hull still has such a potency to his lyrics and song writing, but he remains one of the greatest songwriters of all time and is still going strong.

6. Carousels - mewithoutYou: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yh0vzGU8RWw

As you're probably well aware, I'm a definite advocate of the earlier mewithoutYou albums. The song Carousels is a great representation of the greatness contained in the rest of the Catch For Us The Foxes album. I always appreciate lyrics that are completely honest, especially when the subject matter revolves around the weakness of man and the greatness of God. This song always reminds me of the overwhelming need for a Savior.

5. Introducing Palace Players - Mew http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kz0aVur1F2A

So let me be honest, when my good friend whose musical taste I respect, told me to check this song out, I started to give it a listen. After about 30 seconds I wanted to shut it off. I was thinking "Mew, how far you've fallen..." But I thought "I have to listen all the way through." I am so glad I did. The song goes from abstract and intentionally messy to being one of the most catchy and well thought out pieces that Mew has written. Give this one a chance and listen all the way through. You'll be pleased.

4. The First Single - The Format http://vimeo.com/32046550

Although it doesn't sound completely country, it's got enough of the genre in it to give a really good feel and set it apart from other indie pop-rock. Any fan of The Format knows that this song should be dubbed the anthem for road trips or long car rides. Although they're no longer a band, The Format's great songs will continue to be some of my most favorite songs. And if you like them, then you can check out the post-Format band, fun.

3. Sweetness- Jimmy Eat World http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wU3KBI5qyEY

Jimmy Eat World is one of those bands that just has a sound unlike any other band I've ever really heard. I had heard a few of their other singles and was pretty much like "meh..." But after I heard Sweetness I went out and bought the album, and ever since it's been my number one favorite song of all time. The reason being is because even when the rest of the album was ruined by memories I made while listening heavily to the album. This was the only song not ruined by those sad moments in my life. It's always a great listen and has such a strong melody.

2. Simple and Clean - Utada Hikaru http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7xRFC4fX7Y

Now you may be asking yourself "A J-POP SONG AS NUMBER TWO?!?! ARE YOU NUTS?!?!" Well no, I'm not crazy. The reason I chose this song is because this is one of the VERY few songs that I could play on repeat, alternating between English and Japanese for at least thirty minutes....on just the one song. I don't know if it's the great mixing, the background noises, or the one of the most infectious melodies of all time, but this song is almost like crack in auditory form. Also it's the theme song for such a great game....you can't beat that.

1. Jesus - Brand New http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c_iNdbPvrYk

This is quite possibly one of the easiest calls on mine or anyone else's part that could be made. If you've never heard this song you absolutely must listen to it! Any song that can maintain the same melody throughout and hold your attention deserves high regard. Combined with the crescendo at the end, emotion of Jesse Lacey, and the incredible lyrics make this a no-brainer. Since I could gush about this song for hours, I'll stick to just posting some of the lyrics that always make me examine my own life.

I know you're coming in the night like a thief
But I've had some time, O Lord, to hone my lying technique
I know you think that I'm someone you can trust
But I'm scared I'll get scared and I swear I'll try to nail you back up
So do you think that we could work out a sign
So I'll know it's you and that it's over so I won't even try
I know you're coming for the people like me
But we all got wood and nails
And we turn out hate in factories

Alright, so I know it's been awhile

2011-12-22T20:58:00.000-08:00

I've decided to bring back my old blog because I felt like it was the perfect format to post my lists for my favorite things. Mostly involving music, but there will probably be other things.

So let's get to it.

14.

Letlive.'s Fake History completely took me by surprise, just as much as the band as a whole did. Although i don't completely agree with the overall message in the lyrics and the cynicism directed toward God, I find the lyrical honesty and musical style to be completely refreshing. There aren't too many bands nowadays that can pull off a sound similar to Refused's The Shape of punk to come. The cd is most definitely a parental advisory, but hearing a point of view so clearly conveyed by an artist is very rare, but very appreciated.

13.

I've always been a big fan of concept albums(which at some point I'm going to compile a short list of favorite concept album(s))and Jamie's Elsewhere's They Said A Storm Was Coming is no exception to great concepts. While it's hard to follow the connections between some of the songs, the lyrics push it far beyond the typical Post-Hardcore album and turn it into a well thought out piece of art. Even if you're not a fan of the Post-Hardcore genre, the lyrics still make a worth while listen.

12.

Lydia's Illuminate is one of the few albums on the list that doesn't rest heavily on the quality of the lyrics. Even though I'm a big fan of really well thought out lyrics, sometimes a cd with music you can groove to just makes for a different type of gem to add to the collection. There are times at first when all the songs on this album start to blend together and you can't tell one from the other, but that's part of the magic. It's almost like a yoga for the ears. A complete relaxation for the brain. Even though there's some language, this cd is a solid addition to my favorites list.

11.

This may be an oldie, but as a past all time favorite album of mine, it remains a great. The music world is severely lacking in the kind of quality that Blindside put into their Silence album. Although it's rock style seems a little dated, the vocals and lyrics help this one to stand out from the pack of mediocrity.

10.

It may come as a shock that my favorite band's War All The Time didn't make it further up the list, but don't be fooled by #10 It's definitely one of the all time greatest CD's. I think it's pretty well agreed that even though the lead singer's voice isn't particularly great, his lyrics and vocal charm are undeniable. Although I don't agree with some of the views held by the band, it's a very interesting take on the world that they present with this masterpiece. If you haven't heard it check it out most definitely!

At first when I heard the new Manchester Orchestra I was a little skeptical on how it could top their previous albums. Once my brother gave me a little more background on the it and after a few videos on the making of it, I came to the realization that this is Andy Hull and co.'s most mature and best work. Every song has the usual lyrical genius that Andy never fails to deliver and the music is the perfect accompaniment to make this another memorable album. A personal favorite track of mine is Apprehension, which has made it's way to the top of the list of favorite Manchester songs I have. Pure gold.

Anathallo's final album left me in awe. The fact that they never made it as one of the greatest bands of all time still confuses me. CD's like this don't come very often and because it's one of the only remaining works of a late great, anyone who's interested should take advantage and give this one a listen.... IMMEDIATELY! As great as the other Anathallo albums were, this one is like the whole jar of maraschino cherries dumped over the greatest ice cream sundae ever!

There are few albums that are these days that can speak volumes of truth to the listener while giving the perfect picture of hope to build up a believer in Christ. While most Christians try not to shove Jesus in the face of the secular generation, Bryce Avery shows a down to earth view that doesn't shy away from being vocal about his faith in Christ. This is one of the most encouraging albums on the list and this can help any believer to have a renewed love for the Lord. Even for someone who isn't saved, this album is not only really catchy but it gives a positive message missing from a dying world.

This is one of the first albums that I realized there were complete works of art in musical form. It's the only one that I've dubbed a "Kodak CD". If there's any moment in time that I want to remember for the rest of my life, I put on headphones on listen to O in it's entirety, mentally cataloging that memory. With this album, Damien created the ultimate coffee shop album to be treasured by all til the end of time. If ever there was a moment to relax, this would be the soundtrack. I feel like it's emo music for older people. But don't be steered away from this gem.

What can be said about this one? I wish it could be higher up on the list, because it is truly one of the greatest and most innovative albums that I've ever heard. At first I thought that Mew was a little too ambitious with their style and tried to fit too much into something new.... I was wrong. They've reached far beyond what was expected of them and created something so great that it can only be listened to, in order to be believed. The combination of disco and experimental rock makes No More Stories Are Told Today, I'm Sorry They Washed Away a must listen.

If you have never heard mewithoutYou's Brother, Sister you've been missing out on a truly great piece of art. There are so many reasons why this is such a great CD, but two highlights are the spiritual insight in the perfectly constructed poetic lyrics and the ambient music that makes this such an enjoyable listen. When the band released this album they completely outdid not only themselves, but just about every other band at the time.

When this album came out I felt a little disappointed at the musical departure from their heavier, more Post-Hardcore sound. But after a few listens I found that this had every element of one of the greatest albums ever. The lyrics were much more mature and still to this day contain some of my favorite lines. Although some of the songs are a little more somber than I would like, it goes with the whole theme of a awesome CD. Don't pass up Come Now Sleep by As Cities Burn.

Brand New's The Devil And God Are Raging Inside Me contains not only one of the best songs lyrically, but continues to boggle my mind at the creativity that was put into it. There isn't much to be said about this one, only that if you like music you have to give this album a listen. It's a masterpiece through and through. And it doesn't appear to be going anywhere soon.

With yet another appearance on the list, no less the top, mewithoutYou has every element for another piece of artwork. The Mona Lisa(objecively) of all albums. Standing the test of time it proves itself to be in my opinion the greatest overall album of all time. It, as their other album does, overflows with spiritual insight and has some of the best musical hooks. This is an album that demands your attention. Get it and give it many listens.

I'm sure most of you said tl;dr but if you stuck through it I appreciate your patience. There will be a few shorter lists coming when I'm ready to compile them. Hopefully someone read this :-p

:)

2009-04-01T15:43:00.000-07:00

Things are going pretty good out here in the desert. As far as my time here is concerned it's been an eerie picture resembling the children of Israel in the wilderness. And I can see the promised land in the distance! WHOO!
I've been reading through Matthew and it's been a huge blessing looking at the life of Christ and reading the words that He spoke. If it's been a while for any of you reading through the gospels, go and read' back through them, they're always a blessing.
I'm still at a time of trial and testing, but the Lord has been bringing me through it and things are going well. He's continuing to help me to press on! He's been faithful in my life to provide for me thus far. There's not much else going on in my life right now, aside from some plans that I have, but I'm waiting for the Lord to speak to me about those still.

I would have some pictures for everyone, but I lost our camera on my last adventure and I'm still kinda bummed about it.

Well, there'll be more later.
bye for now

I'm back

2009-02-28T22:49:00.001-08:00

My time of fasting went pretty well. I realize it's something I need to do more often. The Lord has given me all kinds of things to think on and continue to improve on. Overall I'm still waiting for the Lord to speak and guide me somewhere away from here, but at the same time I know He has me here for a good reason and so I'm trying to be used by Him as much as I can while I'm here.

Fasting

2009-02-20T19:53:00.000-08:00

is something that I know I should do more often, but I've been putting it off. Well, not for the next week! This next week is time to kill the flesh and focus my attention on the Lord. So if you think of me over the next week, I'd really appreciate the prayer. I really want this time to be a great time and I definitely don't want to waste it. Once the time is over, I'll update ya'll on how it went.
The Lord has been good to me, and I want to offer myself to Him.

So, peace out for a week internet!

Thanks friends!

2009-02-04T15:52:00.000-08:00

I just wanted thanks you guys for reading and encouraging me. In fact, I'm feeling a whole lot better! The Lord is doing some great things with me while I'm here, and it seems to be more of a training time. Although it does seem a little boring around here and like there's not much to do, I've been trying to do as much as I can and it's working out pretty well. I can't wait to get started with something really exciting, but until that happens I'm actually getting pretty comfortable with finding things to do. It's a challenge that I know the Lord wants me to take on for the time being. Instead of waiting for things to come to me I'm actually looking for things to do. Some days it's a little dry, but today has been really great! I got to talk to Kayla and a few other people today and that made my day really exciting! I also worked out in the back yard, which is what's on the schedule for the next hour. The Lord is good, and I get more encouraged as I go on. There will be more to come, and maybe some pictures! Bye for now.

Moses in the wilderness

2009-02-02T19:14:00.000-08:00

Well, since I've been back home a lot of people have been asking me the same questions over and over again...
1. So how long are you back for?
2. Do you have a job?
3. Are you going to school anywhere?

At times these questions get a little discouraging because none of the answers are exciting...
1. I don't know. (Not long I hope)
2. Not yet. (It doesn't look promising either)
3. No (But I've been thinking about it quite a bit. The problem is I have no idea what I would really like to study or do with my life at this point)

It also gets really lonely out here in the desert. I don't have many friends, and the ones I do have, I only get to hang out with like once a week...maybe.

But now that all the sad stuff out of the way...
I know that the Lord is doing something right now. He's teaching me a lot about patience, self control, good work ethic, and a bunch of other things that I need to learn to be more like Christ. Right now I feel a bit like I'm in training to be a man, and it's pretty tough, but I know that the Lord is doing something good with me. So the Lord is good and I'm just having to trust Him and wait to see what He's going to do. I'm learning to remember my priority is to glorify the Lord in whatever I do, even if it's cleaning out the backyard.

A few prayer requests for me:
1. I really need something to do (i.e. a job or school)
2. I really need a little more human interaction these days. So if any of you are reading this I'd love to hear from you. I pretty much see my parents and my dogs only...everyday. Occasionally I'll go out once a week, or hang out with someone, but I really need a little bit more. It's getting pretty lonely out here. So that would be something you guys can pray for me for.
3. There a few things that I'm praying about that I don't really want to mention just yet, but they are things I really want to do. So if you vaguely pray for those things that would be a blessing.
4. Lastly, I need money to pay off the school, so if you guys could pray for that too.

Other than all those things, I'm very encouraged with all the things that are going on right now in my life and I'm hoping that they are continuing to gloify the Lord. He is good to me and I can name so many blessings that I'm not worthy of, but very thankful for. God is good!

P.S. If anyone in Germany is reading this, tell everyone there that I miss them a lot!

also, leave a comment so that I know you read this!

I will...

2009-02-01T23:33:00.000-08:00

update my blog soon....

sorry for the delay. :(

This post is dedicated to...

2008-12-11T12:02:00.000-08:00

A person that is too big for the last one...

He simply deserves his own

Almost over already?

2008-12-10T01:04:00.000-08:00

I feel like this was the fastest semester that I've ever had. Things have been moving by so fast, and I'm excited to go home, but at the same time I'm going to miss so many people a lot! I also have no idea what the Lord has for me after this semester. I would love to come back, which the Lord would have to provide ALL the finances for(as He always does). I'm also praying about joining my brother Michael in Florida, which would be really fun. There are quite a few things that I could do, but I'm mainly praying that the Lord would direct me in the way that He wants me to go in. So we'll see what will happen next.

Just a few friends that I will miss dearly:
Kingsley Zissou

Sharon Casco

This n00b Brandon

The first of the Triplets Aaron

Maarten, my Dutch buddy

Leah Bean!

My other triplet(twin) Zachie

and last, but in no way least, Kayla :)

a few of these people I'm going to get to get to see over the break, but I'll still miss being around them everyday. This is definitely a group of friends that are very dear to my heart. Most of them are coming back, which is a little bittersweet, mostly sweet.
Germany has been an awesome experience...maybe it will continue, maybe not, but the Lord has good plans for me over the next few months and years. Whether or not I come back, I know that the Lord is going to do some great things through me to glorify Himself.

Leipzig

2008-10-17T09:17:00.000-07:00

So, I've been in East Germany for almost a week now, and things have been really fun. They've also been hard at times. It's really weird to be away from school and all the people I've been getting to know for the past month. The Lord has been showing me a lot of things, most of which you may never know...sorry to say. I'll put more about what the Lord has been doing in a later post. Just thought I'd give a fresh new post for a change....

P.S. Still loving Engine Glow.

Engine Glow....

2008-10-11T03:30:00.000-07:00

I've been listening the new Anathallo Album and I must say....

It's not what I expected in some ways.
At first I thought that maybe it was alright...
Then I realized it was a little better than I thought...
Then I would listen to it and realize that it wasn't long enough(which still occurs everytime I listen to it.)

....Currently......I'm in love with the cd.

Thank you Anathallo... it was worth the wait. I'm anxious to hear the Anticon release.

Anathallo is part of my life again!

P.S. I've only had the cd for two days

Thanks everyone...

2008-09-26T11:05:00.001-07:00

For the support. I'm feeling much better. Today was super long and tough, but it wasn't that bad. I'm hoping that tomorrow is going to be really sweet. We're supposed to play soccer and then go to Koln. The only thing is I'm sort of running out of money. If any of you guys are praying for me that could be a serious area that you can pray for. I'm not getting dangerously low of fund, so there's no need for worry, but it's something that is going to require a lot of prayer for later on in the semester. Thanks everyone, I know you all are praying for me.

...Besides that everything is peachy! :-)

there's no getting around it...

2008-09-25T13:30:00.001-07:00

....I'm feeling sad.....

oddly enough, this weeks devotion topic is joy.....

coincidence?

Who knows....

hopefully it'll pass soon....

maybe tomorrow morning.

Emergency Post!!!

2008-09-20T11:54:00.001-07:00

ANATHALLO!!!
NEW SONG!!!!!!

https://store.anticon.com/item.php?code=abr0090

I also might be able to see them while I'm here in Germany......exciting.

There is plenty to write about music

2008-09-19T05:18:00.000-07:00

...Especially Manchester Orchestra...

I want to see some comments on what everyone thinks about the new Manchester Orchestra song. If I don't see comments then I'll know no one reads this blog....

http://www.myspace.com/manchesterorchestra

Tamiko... I know you love my musical taste, so I want to see some comments from you especially.

I'm going to write more about my actual life later... it will most likely not be as vague as previous entries.

....most likely.....

I can feel a cold one....

2008-09-15T12:57:00.000-07:00

This looks like it's going to be an interesting semester. I really don't have much to say about it... other than... Along with the beginning of the semester there are a lot of things that will take time to figure out, and somethings that are never figured out. I wish I was a little more interested in explaining, but I'm not... sad to say.

Usually I would write about my latest music endeavours, but it doesn't seem that much worth writing about. Although I will say this... the new manchester orchestra song "is a heck of a drug."(obviously not in the most literal sense, but it is quite soothing.)

I think I need to take more pictures because they're severely lacking. And usually people only look at blogs for the pictures. I have the theory that mine hasn't been read in quite a while due to this very thing.

Although there seem to be too many ups and downs right now, there is one important truth to be remembered.... Alex Raftas always brings a smile to my face.
More importantly... God is great in everything He does... I just wish I wouldn't confuse myself so much.

I'm sorry for the incredibly vague blogging that I've been accustomed to. I guess it's like listening to music for me... it's a little soothing in a weird way...
Maybe I'm like Anathallo without out all the political and internet related video entries.

album news coming soon...

Another new addition... and new songs

2008-08-07T12:47:00.000-07:00

sadly also about a band. I find it sad when the only thing I have to blog about are new bands that I've been listening to.

Annuals = Amazing

check them out and they will destroy you
or
don't check them out and I will destory you(but probably not.)

Another addition... my top three lists, which I think Brad has probably heard a few of these more than enough...so if you're Brad then continue at your own risk

Ok

Top three favorite
-Movies-
3.American History X
2.No Country For Old Men
1.Serenity
-Tv-
3.Ninja Warrior/Unbeatable Banzuke
2.Scare Tactics
1.Firefly
-Current songs-
3.CHU-BURA by Kelun
2.One More Time by Lydia
1.Ocean by Margot And The Nuclear So And Sos
-All time songs(which is too hard to put definites, but these are songs that stand above the most others-
3.Sweeteness by Jimmy Eat World
2.Hanasakajiji(three: the man who made dead trees bloom.) by Anathallo
1.Do You Feel by The Rocket Summer
-Current bands-
3.Pompeii
2.Annuals
1.Lydia
-All time bands-
3.Thursday
2.Anathallo
1.The Rocket Summer
-Favorite friends-
psh....just kidding, I love you all the same

I think I'm really starting to fall for Lydia..........

2008-08-03T13:14:00.000-07:00

It's been quite a while since I had blogged anything...mostly because there hasn't been anything to blog about... unless you want to count me beating the twilight princess.......well here it is..........

Lydia.

<3 I'm smitten, Thanks for introducing us Brad!

Amazing.....................

www.myspace.com/lydia

I'm fairly sure that Sherri Dupree is on there too

Euro Cup

2008-06-10T13:44:00.000-07:00

Is getting amazing.
I can't stop watching it.
Seeing as how Brad is getting addicted to Firefly, I figured I would second that motion.

P.S. Sorry I wasn't more excited on my last post... maybe next time...

or maybe not...

we'll see...

A video update

2008-06-03T06:49:00.000-07:00

So, I hear that people actually do read my blog...

Well here's your update!

A little more...

2008-04-28T13:18:00.000-07:00

So my trip to Poland was definitely an interesting...but good one. I had to lead a team of nine people, taking the bus, train, and plane, to Poland for 6 days. Let me tell you this...leading is tough. I had a good group of people, and praise the Lord nothing bad happened.

We were pretty much looked at like celebrities or freaks...I couldn't figure out which.
We got stared at a lot.
I had no idea that it was going to be like the ghetto part of Mexico with Vodka instead of Tequila.

We had an English camp every night just talking to kids and hanging out, helping them practice their English. The second night we did a thing on animals...hmmmmm

as I was explaining the animals a was doing a little finger snapping thing that just cannot be explained by text. A few of the girls started laughing and looking embarrassed....

...apparently I was doing the equivalent to sticking up your middle finger in Poland and had no idea what I was doing....

Did I mention this took place on my 21st birthday...what a present

We didn't get much opportunity to share one on one with anyone, but I know that the Lord has us help lay groundwork for Kurt(the pastor in Poland). It was such a weird, but pleasant experience. I'm glad the Lord sent me on the trip.

Poland

2008-04-27T03:30:00.000-07:00

Was interesting....

Praise the Lord...

...

2008-04-15T01:54:00.000-07:00

I often don't know what to write in this thing...
But just to let ya'll know what's going on with me:

I've been working with the school doing different things just helping out.
The Lord has been teaching me a lot about being a leader, which has been pretty difficult for me because I don't like to lead. Things have been working out better...

The monetaries......I keep feeling like I'm losing them all...
I need to pay the school, but going about it is too wacky.

For some reason I'm getting the craving to play a zelda game (more preferably from the nin 64 platform)

I wish friends from home would keep in touch with me...I have no idea what's going on out there, but at the same time I understand not keeping in touch

Final thoughts:
I love the new thrice... you should too.
I'm tired all the time
The new Anathallo needs to come out
The new Pompeii need to be recorded and then listened to by me
I want to be more like Christ
I'm tired of being lame
I hope Poland will be sweet

More pictures coming soon

...Leave comment so I know that I'm still existing to people...

I may just cry if you don't...or not...who knows...who cares... me... Lates

I'm under the impression...

2008-04-14T06:06:00.000-07:00

That the alchemy index was written by masterminds of sorts...
It's pretty brilliant...

...hmmmm....

2008-04-10T06:33:00.000-07:00

...It seems like everyone is getting engaged......How Bittersweet...

5 more days till Thrice

12 more days till Poland

A little over 5 weeks till the semester ends

2 and a half months till we come home

P.S. There are lots of things I miss back home, however Germany is treating me pretty well.

Easily one of the most thought out things I've said

2008-03-14T03:10:00.000-07:00

Thrice contains four of the most brilliant musicians to write music in the past 10 years
Don't believe me, see for yourself
http://www.alchemyindex.com/
Watch all ten videos and then in their video section and tell me you're not excited

...Alchemy Index 3 & 4 coming out April 15th...

...ugh...

2008-03-07T06:49:00.000-08:00

Too much bouncing around up in this brain of mine. Things here have been great, for those of you that aren't experiencing Germany with me. I know a lot of you guys have been wondering what I've been up to.
Currently I'm in charge of doing a few things:
1. Setting up the Dvd camera to record the classes that have translation with them, mainly for the purpose of the Germans that can't see the class, but want to be blessed by the teaching.
2. Setting up classes and things that teachers need for that.
I'm also doing lots of ministry for various other things...a main one is playing worship occasionally for a youth group, playing worship weekly for a home study, and worship weekly for the devotions on Mondays.

Very soon I'm going to be helping out with shopping, and helping a German kid with his English.

An important update is that I'm possibly going to be leading a trip to Poland. Be in prayer that I will be able to get in contact with the pastor there and work out all the details before next Wednesday.

That's all for now... there will be more pictures soon

2008-02-29T02:32:00.000-08:00

Finally....

Mullet Pictures!

As you can see it's a work in progress...and it looks better straightened

Things that have been going on:
-Lots of hanging out
-Lots of work
-Lots of eating
-Lots of waiting for anathallo's new cd

Things that the Lord has been teaching me:
-I need to spend more time with Him
-I need to be more responsible
-I need to be nicer to people

I think that's all I can think of saying for now....sorry for the lameness

Germany

2008-02-01T05:34:00.000-08:00

Finally made it. Everything is beautiful here. I have no idea what I'm gonna be doing over the course of the semester....but it'll be good. I'll post up pictures and more about everything later....

praise God that I made it.

In honor of ANATHALLO

2007-12-31T18:58:00.000-08:00

Awaiting the new cd that feels like it's just beyond the horizon, possibly months away, I made a shirt to show my love for great music.

Get excited! It's going to be great.

Christmas is here...finally

2007-12-22T19:01:00.000-08:00

get ready for it

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double portion

2007-12-18T16:09:00.000-08:00

I've been lacking in my blogging...and I was getting jealous of Brad's Anathallo comment...so maybe this one will get there attention.

So, we went to go see I am legend, the only movie that was vying for movie of the year in my opinion. I thought it was pretty amazing...the No country for old men is still the best movie that has come out this year though. Somehow Brad, Derek, and I all got to sit together in the best seats in the theater. Afterward we went to in n out...here's the documentation to go along with the story

mmmmm.....Brad

And Derek

and me.

When we got our food, a huge group of crazy kids came and sat right next to us...super awkward. They decided that since they needed one more seat, they would move...whew. Then as we were leaving, the security guard followed us outside...which at the point I realized he had been watching us the whole night....weird. So we said our goodbyes and left.

The next day....graduation.

It was bittersweet...I was sad to see some people leave...

We went to ichiban sushi(i know, we eat alot).

New Friend, The Favorite, and Natalie.
The food was super oishii...I can't even tell you. So we made it back for graduation and then hung with everyone afterward.

Three amazing girls.

Saying bye to Haley was really sad, and I miss my grandma already.

the three boys.

After we left there, we went to brad's house for a huge bash(me, brad, and chessa looking at the new semester book). And I went home....the end

P.S. Thrice's The Alchemy Index vol. 1 and 2.....AMAZING.

Hooray for the elements

tickets...

2007-11-17T12:27:00.000-08:00

have been purchased! Unless they decide they really don't want me there in Germany then that's where I'll be next semester. I'm expecting the Lord to do some amazing things there, because He is good and always faithful. That's all I have to say about that.

P.S. I love the tv show Firefly/the movie Serenity

I can't seem to get enough...even though I've seen all there is.....................sadness

Germany

2007-11-08T17:53:00.000-08:00

So as many of you have already guessed...the mystery place is Germany. I've really been wanting to see Europe and the things God is doing there. Right now I'm going forward with all the things that go along with me getting there(plane tickets, application, and prayer), but if it's not the Lord's will then obviously He will prevent me from going. So please pray that I would clearly see the next step that God has for me so I can take it in faith. I'm really excited to see what He's going to have for me there if I make it there.

In other news...pray for me at work. It's getting tougher to be the voice for Christ that is lacking there. Part of it is my own selfishness, but also part of it is the lack of support that I get when I'm around other strong Christians. Sometimes it's also hard for me to want to work hard. I want to be the beest worker, working as unto the Lord, but working around people that complain all the time makes it hard for me not to want to complain too. I know that the Lord is using me, but I want to be more like my brother, and more importantly like Jesus. A humble and good example to the people I'm working with, not just another funny guy that's cool to hang out with. So if you remember, please pray for Spiritual strength and an overflowing of the Spirit while I'm with anyone who is unsaved.

Thanks friends! I love you all!

Hooray for new things!

Anathallo

2007-11-08T17:49:00.000-08:00

I love them right now!

They need to come out with their new cd now for me!

Hooray for music!

the rocket summer

2007-11-05T16:01:00.001-08:00

is my favorite band! I'm pretty sure that everyone needs to buy the new cd right now!

I also got a shirt from them.

Hooray for pop!

Holy Crap!!!! RUSSIA?!?!?!?!

2007-10-31T21:19:00.000-07:00

so, as some of you(possibly all), may know, I've been thinking about going somewhere...I've never been before. You will be suprised to know that it's the craziest place for me to go(well not completely.)

the place is not russia...

I'm most likely going to go to -------
I sent an email to ----- -----
It's looking like I'm going to go there with -- -------
Looks like I finally get to see ------
how exciting!

fill in the blanks friends

....

2007-10-28T18:25:00.000-07:00

things are pretty much the same conerning my plans...except for the fact that all of the paperwork is nearly complete and will hopefully be sent off somewhere into next week. This is something new for me...

the suspense is killing me

hooray for suprises!

so...

2007-10-17T21:30:00.000-07:00

as many of you may know, this next semester I am currently planning on going abroad once again. I am coming to a few conclusions(ones that I'm not going to speak of until I'm sure and have a plane ticket). They are quite exciting plans, and I'm just praying that the Lord will show me exactly what He wants for me. Please pray that I will make a wise choice and that the Lord will bless my time wherever I go.

Another thing...I went to murrieta this last weekend and it was super fun. I've been going down there quite often because I love to see friends. Hooray for friends!(pictures coming soon...)
While I was there, the Lord really spoke to me about my life and how much I need to keep my life in check. I didn't realize that there were so many things that I was hard-hearted towards concerning the Lord. I had an awesome time talking with my good friend Scott Butterfield. A talk that I very much needed, and we prayed together, which was cool...what and awesome friend.

Thai food is delicious

lastly, ice cream is glorious during weddings.

I love all of my friends and I miss them all.................come back to me friends!

The day after

2007-10-03T16:58:00.000-07:00

The next day, I didn't go to church....(shocking, I know, but no one woke me up and I didn't get back till 330 in the morning). Aside from the heatheness act I hung out with my mom until my dad ot home with pizza. Then I called my two of my favorite friends in Cal city to see what they were up to.

Adam and Amy!

We had decided last week to have a game night, which is what we did!

So we kicked it off with a mean game of scrabble!

This is what I started off with....

I ended up with the win! Hooray for board games!

We listened to music like Stevie Wonder, James Taylor, and Nickel Creek...amazing

We also decided to put big red wrappers on our heads to see who could do it the longest...which was me, because I'm sure that they were over it fast

It hurt kinda bad, but I left it on there for like 5-10 minutes
So we left and went to get Monopoly and Life in Amy's sweet Nova without seatbelts, roomy

So we got Monopoly because Life was unavailable.

Let me just sum the game up for me...Things weren't going great for me and I got in a pinch...almost dead...I came back and owned so hard that everything was annihilated. The game might have been over sooner, but as Amy said that no one wants to be a jerk when you have three christians playing Monopoly, so they have grace and allow lots of things to slide. So afterward we got in the sweet Jacuzzi that was perfect temperature. We turned out the lights and I looked at the stars....

I decided that I am too forgetful on the issue of God's size. I looked at the star in the sky, which looked like speckles of white paint on black canvas. I realized that God is large enough to do anything He wants and more than we can expect. I hope I never forget that He's too big to be put in the back seat again. I can't expect to have God watch me do my own things, and try to get Him to switch seats with me whenever I'm starting to lose control. Then doubting Him as I allow Him to steer me to safety and right back where He wants me, on the right track. I know that everyone struggles with this, but I was very encouraged to see that God is HUGE, and He makes beautiful things...so I need Him to make me.

Finally

2007-10-03T16:32:00.000-07:00

I'm updating! Hooray for updates!

Basically the last couple of weeks have been fun filled! The first thing I have to report on is the weekend I spent with friends in Murrieta.

It was pretty glorious to say the least.

Everybody was there!(chessa was taking the picture in case anyone was wondering)
I kept trying to get pictures of these two, but they liked to hide their face from everyone.......sad day :-(

we picked this spot for picnicing in the park at Harveston. It was a good spot where we could see the lake. It was a little later on in the day so it was quite soothing to be with my friends.

This is my newest friend Sharon! We share asian-ness which is amazing! I hope that we get to share many glorious adventures together in the future! She gave me an air freshener that makes me think her everytime I get in my car(sad day, I know). Although I still haven't figured out how to put it in the vent, it smells good. She's a great friend...

This is JaNece. I get to know her a little bit last semester, but we didn't hang out all that much. However last weekend was such a fun time with her. Even though we had only three previous memories together, this last one was the best! She's another great friend that I'm glad I have.

Poor Chessa. She wasn't feeling too good that day, but we still enjoyed being with her as much time as we could. We met first semester and we've been friends ever since. My little Canadian buddy. Everyone's Canadian buddy...

And everyone knows Brad! I don't think he needs an introduction. Only that we have been good friends since we were little and hopefully all the way till Jesus comes back! :-)

Needless to say, he day made me miss all the friends I have at murrieta. Especially the ones I got to hang out with all day. So Brad, JaNece, Sharon, and Chess...I love all of you guys and miss you so much already. But here's to more adventures

P.S. I love all of my friends(you know who you are)

How relaxing...

2007-09-24T18:45:00.000-07:00

The past two days have been very relaxing and very fun. Yesterday we went out to the beaut after church. We got all of the cooking equipment together and we left in Amy's Bronco for our destination.

the thing about the bronco...no back seats...only a huge mat that Derek and I had to lay on, which was actually more comfortable than seats.
When we got there, we loaded up with all of our equipment and headed up to the top

Adam preparing for the trek

We had to take a few breaks on the way up

Then we finally made it to the top

Derek was addicted to the chips

I don't know how the heck the dog made it up the hill, but somehow buddy made it's way to the top.

After all that, we forgot the buns in the car and the cupcakes at Amy's house, so Adam an Amy made their way down as Derek and I ate burgers without buns

then the dog started making it's way to a cliff and some jagged rocks...so Derek was the hero and saved the dog from certain doom.

So Adam and Amy made their way back up the hill and we hung out up there for a while. I remembered that there was no music playing and so I got my phone out and played the most glorious cd ever, Damien Rice's O. It was the most relaxing moment I think I've had all year. Then I went to this scary rock where it feels like you're on the edge of nothing, even though the ground is only like 10 feet below.

Then Adam realized that the sun was setting so we headed to the other side to watch the sun set, and we ate the cupcakes that Amy made.

Then we made our way down the hill. The only light that was had was the moonlight, but it was so bright that it made the moment that much better. The Lord had provided good weather and little things like an almost full moon to bless us, I was pretty excited about that. Then we were going to head to Amy's to watch a movie...however plans changed and they wouldn't tell me and Derek what we were actually going to do at her house. We were all talking about the bible college at some point and I told Derek that it would make the night perfect if we had hot springs or a jacuzzi to relax in, I think that was the only thing that could have made the night more relaxing. So we get to Amy's house and we ask them what we're doing...suprise, jacuzzi that I didn't know she had.

We didn't have shorts so we had to borrow some of Amy's soccer shorts...

So we ate some ice cream and then we went into the jacuzzi, which was so incredible that I can't tell you how incredible it was. It could have been hotter, but the jets in it more than made up for the loss of heat.

Needless to say...amazing day

ehem

2007-09-18T18:19:00.001-07:00

as for the japanese writing on my blog for the links...I didn't want to confuse the people that can't read katakana...JEREMY AND JOEL!

A bit of art

2007-09-18T17:57:00.000-07:00

I've bee drawing as a bit of stress relief(although I haven't been very stressed lately). I hope you like it

this one has an interesting story behind it...but you'll have to ask if you want to know.

This one isn't quite finished, but I felt a lot of anxiety at that moment, but the Lord helped me to realize that I shouldn't worry about all the stuff that was going on, but instead to focus on Him.

As some of you know, I've been getting into the new As Cities Burn Album. So I took some lyrics and made a surfing man out of them.

This was the first one did. I kinda messed up a little on some of it, but I figured that it got the point across. We were going through Genesis at the time and we were talking about Joseph not giving into temptation, so I got to thinking about all the things that could be tempting, even things that aren't bad, but placed before God.

The All American Man

The second one of the batch...pretty much describes how I feel about myself

The final one is so far my favorite because it the place that I always want to be at...but in case you're wondering, it's not finished.

decisions, decisions...

2007-09-18T16:52:00.000-07:00

It's a good thing I don't need to make any right now...but I do have a few possibilities. The first...obviously to stay and work through next semester. The second, going back to Japan. The third, maybe checking out Europe. I've been thinking a lot lately about going to check out Germany next semester and seeing what Lord has, and traveling to see a bit of Europe. I do love Japan and would love to go back to serve there sometime soon, but I've been seeing a lot of European things lately that really sweet, and Michael has been talking to me about Germany, so I am very interested at the possibility of going out there. I have no idea what the Lord wants and I would love to do either thing, they both seem overwhelmingly amazing, I'm just praying about that the Lord wants. So if you guys could help me out a bit by praying for me too that would be pretty great of you.

Current favorite song

2007-09-17T15:47:00.000-07:00

As Cities Burn/
Come Now Sleep/
Our World Is Grey:

I'm sure if you wanted to stop love,
You could just untie your end and let it go.
But, my God, you don't.
Yeah, I think I love you for it.

You're still sending cells to their rightful places,
When forming more likely to escape.
Such a narrow way of life.
What's it look like from your side?
From here I can't see why it's worth
One more coming out cursed?

Say it, say it!
Say what this is all for!
Say it's redemption.

'Cause our world is grey, world is grey.
We're just swaying from side to side.
Our world is grey, world is grey.
We are thieves and saints alike.
But you don't let go, don't let go.
We keep swaying and swaying.
And you don't let go, don't.
Yeah, I think I love you for it.

He's shooting god up in his arm through a needle.
And she's putting cuts on her legs to bleed out the devil.
"Surely you will not die, eat and be like God."
What have we done?

Say it, say it!
Say that this is all for redemption.

'Cause our world is grey, world is grey.
We're just swaying from side to side.
Our world is grey, world is grey.
We are thieves and saints alike.
But you don't let go, don't let go.
We keep swaying from side to side.
We all just sway, we all just sway.
But you don't let go, you don't.
You don't.

I haven't quite figured out where they're coming from on some of their songs but I really love this one especially the music. Check out the thir new cd

It's official!

2007-09-14T19:57:00.000-07:00

Here's my badge. This signifies that I actually have proof of my job! Today was a very interesting day at work...because for a couple of hours we did nothing at all...there was literally nothing for us to do. We rearranged our cart for like a million years and then finally at the end of the day they had us help another line with their work so we could get all that finished. Besides that it was a pretty good work day and I'm hoping there will be alot of things to do on monday.

Well, I'm going to be praying about where I'm to go in the next few months. I really want to go back to Japan, and I have a heart for the people, but at the same time lately I've been thinking a lot about going to another country. I'm still praying and I know that the Lord will lead me in this decision, but I still need a lot of prayer so that I'll know for sure where He wants me.

Friends that are in California...we need to hang out soon...beach trip on the 23rd...I'm pretty sure. I'm hoping that it all works out because I really would love to relax on the beach before working the next day. I miss all of my friends, the ones in Japan and all of the ones in California. I would love for you to visit me soon...that would make me happy!

Alright well I hope you've enjoyed my blog thus far. I'm thinking about posting random stories like I used to, ones that are interesting but nothing to do with anything...get excited! Bye friends.

Hooray!

2007-09-13T18:49:00.001-07:00

I'm glad my friends are still reading about my adventures! Thanks guys. To answer Kamechan's question about what exactly it is that I do...today I picked up trash...which is not a normal thing, but since everything was going slow I was picking up cigarette butts and trash off of the ground outside. However, I did some actual work today too. Basically what I do is somewhat of an assembly line type deal, and I work on the final portion of it. to giveyou an idea of what the unit looks like, it's a lot like six cabinets on a raised platform(three on one side and the other on the opposite facing the other three...I hope that wasn't confusing.) Anyway, this thing is pretty huge so we have to use ladder and stuff to get to the top. When we get the thing that we work on, we have to wait for the testers to make sure that all of the electrical things in it work, so normally we have to wait up to an hour for them. Sometimes there's stuff to do while we wait for them...but lately there hasn't been anything to do but play basketball(or rather watch my co-worker try to shoot a wrapped up bubblewrap into the trash.) When they're finished we get to tape the outside, bend metal bars and screw them into the top, screw in plexi-glass panels and a galvanized panel, put a box filled with various things and zip tie it down, zip tie another box, make sure they have fiber optic wires in this little cabinet, have it inspected, wrap the outside, throw a plastic sheet over the top, have them bring in a large box with the forklift and tie that down, make sure the whole things is wrapped and then we burn the outside with a huge blowtorch, tape the outside, write on it, put on a door, and then we have it inspected, then we have the paper work filled out and then move it out of the warehouse...only to have that repeated moments later. Sometimes I feel a little bit like a robot...which would be super sweet to be a robot that could do amazing things, however I'm talking about one of the lame robots in the car factory. I did however, get to talk to my workmate about the Lord. He was raised in a christian home and he knows quite a lot about the Lord, and he says he believes in Jesus, but he's come to a lot of his own conclusions about the bible and the idea of God that don't seem to fit with what the bible says. He's also living a life that isn't in line with Christ and he doesn't see anything wrong with it, so please keep him and me in your prayers. I really want to see him come to the Lord in a true and real way. Well it looks like it's time to hit the hay and or sack, whichever you prefer, personally I don't feel like hitting anything but I don't want to be exhausted in the morning. Hopefully in the next post I'll have some pictures...maybe of my new badge, how exciting. It makes me feel special! Once again, thanks for remembering my little blog, friends. Bye all!

sashiburi ne?

2007-09-12T15:41:00.000-07:00

I have been gone for quite a while. I think i've been too busy reading everyone else's blog that I've forgotten what writing was about. So things for me have been very interesting the past few months. I got a job finally. I work at GE wind in the mountains of Tehachapi. It's not that far of a drive, the work is easy, and the pay is pretty good. On to other matters, every day I eat sandwiches for lunch. Things for me have been a huge growing experience for the past few months. The Lord has been showing me a lot through different things that have been happening. Also this past Sunday Derek and I went to the fair in Pomona with Lauren, her brothers Jason and Brandon, and Brandon's girlfriend Kelsey( I sure hope I spelled that right). That was a fun time, although I was looking forward to trying rattlesnake bites...but...nothing :-( Although the animals were cute and the things we saw were cool.
I'm going to be making more posts soon and hopefully there will be pictures from my grand adventures. Hopefully no one forgot about my blog and maybe someone will read this....otherwise...I'll know that I at least read it. Alright friends, be encouraged and keep looking to Christ and find satisfaction in Him! Bye :-)

Vegas baby!

2007-03-26T18:55:00.001-07:00

Oo mama! Vegas!

So I went to vegas for the weekend to visit my dad.
The first question that people tend to ask me is...does my dad live in vegas...and the answer is no. He's working there for a few weeks and our family went to visit him.

Me and the broham kicking it to some tunes on the way there....

We went to the hotel and hung out for a while and then we went out to a barbeque joint...they had Bombshwah Collard Greens(southern amazingness) Cho oishi!

Then dad found out about the phone bill and was wondering why it was so high...

I, of course, used my smooth skills to get out of it though...phew!

Then the next day we went to the cactus farm/chocolate factory mmmmmmmm

We also hit up a giant guitar store
....this is my favorite picture from it

Finally...this is the sweet ride that we drove around in while we were there

The whole weekend was really fun! It was great to be able to hang out with the family.

It was a little sad seeing so many misguided people that were looking for hope in their mindless gambling and parties. It's definitly a place that needs alot of prayer. Also my dad needs prayer because he's pretty much the only christian out of the people he works with. If you remember continue to pray for him while he's there in vegas being a shining light for Christ.

Weekend at home

2007-03-19T10:09:00.000-07:00

This last weekend was really fun! Nicky and Shannon came home with me to the glorious California city...well not quite that glorious, but it was still fun.

We went with my brother to a restaurant where they cook the food in front of you, and they do tricks with the food, cho sweet.
We had a mexican chef who kept saying really funny things about being mexican
Then we went and got some ice cream mochi from trader joes, mmmmmmmmm
As you can see it was pretty delicious.

We had a great time watching movies, like the burbs, joe versus the volcano, and the new ninja turtles movie for free.

Although life has been going great, I've been needing alot of prayer because i've been getting oppressed by satan lately. Continue to pray for strength for me and direction for after school.

Jaa ne!

Welcome back

2007-03-17T22:52:00.000-07:00

Finally updating! I got rid of my myspace account...which means that I won't spend as much time on the internet, which is cool. I've been learning alot of things in the word and been getting encouraged alot.

There will for sure be more updates when I can get to it.

Bye peoples

Whoa....

2007-01-11T11:00:00.000-08:00

This morning I woke up and was once again feeling down about being selfish...serving only myself instead of the Lord. I prayed that God would change me...or do something in my life over this break. Another struggle that has come up is money...knowning that God will provide for me and my family is a no brainer...however in the lasty few days my dad bought my christmas present(a cajon), paid my bed deposit, and received news that as part of my tuition payment plan...we have to have 600 dollars due in two weeks that we just don't have. So...this morning, as I'm laying down, I hear my mom find a bill that was due yesterday...dangit. She was fine with it and called it in...but I felt like all this money is due and I wanted the Lord to provide something.

So... as I'm laying, praying that the Lord would change me...while at the same time providing money for my current situation. Suddenly...my phone rings. "hmmmm...who is this?" I asked myself. The screen on the phone read Daryl. "Hello is this Douglas?" He asked. "Yes it is." I replied. "Are you still interested in getting a job down here for the last couple of weeks before school?" This caught me totally off guard because I called at least 3 to four weeks ago, and didn't expect to have him call me back. In that moment I felt like God was sending me a message. "I love you no matter how much you rebel. I you to know that I will always provide for you NO MATTER WHAT." That was a big comfort. Although I know I need to change from being so selfish...especially towards the Lord, yet He still loves me the same when I am.

I'm so blessed to have amazing earthly father, and an even more amazing heavenly Father.

comMENTOS THE dougie FRESH MAKER

2007-01-09T15:45:00.000-08:00

I've officially changed that comment thingy! So now I will accept anonymous comments.
That's right Trevor I'm talking to you! psh...I mean who else even reads this juice?

Visitors

2007-01-08T13:17:00.000-08:00

Aaron came over to spend the night on saturday because Tom was coming to speak at our church on sunday. I think he was probably overwhelmed with food because my mom kept trying to stuff him with anything she could find. She fixed up the ribs and gumbo that was in the fridge.(mmmmmm おいしい...) Then my family kept trying to give us ice cream and cake after the fat meal we had. The next morning we had a good time at church. Tom gave an awesome message and it made me wish I was going back out to Okinawa just to hear him teach. Afterward they came over and looked at baby pictures and talked and all that junk. We had alot of fun

...Life at home has been good. There have definitely been ups and downs already...but I think that God is bringing me through His refining fire in this time. I'm just so greatful for the grace that God gives...because no matter how many times I leave Him...He's always ready to take me back...comforting me with His soft voice. I love having a relationship with the Creator of the universe.

Bald Face..........

2006-12-26T15:52:00.000-08:00

I shaved the other day and I feel wierd. Even though I didn't have much mustache to begin with I feel naked on my face. I think it looks pretty good, but I would sacrifice a better looking face for a sweet mustache.

pics coming soon...

Home again

2006-12-26T15:44:00.002-08:00

So I made it home...
The trip was pretty good...
The movies worked...
I really miss Japan and everyone there...
I need prayer about getting a job somewhere, prayerfully the school, but I have to get a hold of them soon...
I miss all of my classmates...
God is so good, and I don't deserve anything from Him, although He still blesses me...

I can't to see everyone again.

2006-12-26T15:44:00.001-08:00

So we have two weeks left! I have alot of homework left and alot of things to be doing. So why am I writing this blog now do you ask? I feel like doing it! Here's some pictures

I can't tell you how beautiful this water was. God sure does know how to make the best colors.

I almost died going up these....ugh....

Everybody!
The Lord really knows how to bless us. I thought that maybe it would be a good experience coming out here, and I thought that working really hard over the summer was going to pay off...but I realize that this whole trip hasn't had anything to do with me...it's all a blessing from Christ. I've gotten closer to Him and i've been able to witness some really incredible stuff. I don't think that there could be a better experience than this in my life! But...that's the most incredible thing about Christ and serving Him with my life. I know that there are greater things in store for me if I continue to follow Him and simply love Him with everything I have. I can' comprehend the greatness that God has for me...but I know that it's better than what I have to offer or anything that I can come up with.

Oh Lord Jesus...how great is Your love for me...as pitful as I am. Even in my despair, when I can't see past my self and my problems...just beyond my selfishness lies something that's seems like too much for my eyes to capture and my mind to comprehend! Oh the day when I'm able to behold the unbeholdable and rest in Your presence.

I think that the thing that God has taught me most this semester, is that Christ is coming back...and it's the only thing worth looking forward to.

2006-12-26T15:43:00.002-08:00

Today we went to the beach...well it's not really a beach, it was kinda like a...well it was like a fake beach, but it was alot of fun. We through rocks at other rocks and skipped rocks and....well it may not sound like fun but it was. We leave in exactly five week from today. It's pretty sad to know that I'll be leaving here so soon, but at the same time it will be great to go home and share all of my experiences with my friends and family! All the things that God has done here are so incredible! Despite all of my failures and falling short(which seems to be an overwhelming amount.) could never cancel out God's power to overcome those things. I've been seeing that even when I'm a failure, He is strong, and He loves me the same no matter what!
Here's some Korea pictures

Oishi ne?

This is our first night in Korea before we started worship time

My favorite time in Korea, getting to worship Jesus. This was a very special time for me.

this was when we got to share a verse with the Korean students. This was cool because some of the students weren't christians so we got to share a little bit of our faith with them. This was also right before I split my pants in the car....hmmmmm....this was a weird night. We were also treated to my favorite song...100 bottles of juice on the wall...thanks Jeremy.

2006-12-26T15:43:00.001-08:00

Today has been crazy! I feel like i'm bi-polar...I'm up one minute and down the next...then the Lord brings me back up again. I might have failed my Church History midterm...agh! But at the same time I was really seeking God today...and I felt, like every other day, I was getting no answers, but today I feel like He might have opened my eyes a little bit to His plan. I feel like it's something that's going to involve a lot of faith, and prayer...but God is definitely good. He also spoke directly to me through His words and some problems that I've been having, PRAISE JESUS! I'm currently seeking God and His will for me in the next six months...so please pray that God would provided me a with a clear vision as to what He wants for me. I must say that God has been good to me all my life, but I've just been appreciating Him more for it recently. When I look back at my life, I feel like I was even more selfish than I am now (which right now seems like ALOT). But in spite of that, Jesus is way to incredible to focus on that! WHOO Thank you Jesus!

2006-12-26T15:11:00.002-08:00

We had our first real midterm today...I hope I did ok
I was thinking about home lately, and I've come to the conclusion that I can't wait to be home, but I don't want to go home right now. Even though I miss home and I wish I could spend some time with family and friends, I know that God has called me here for a special reason and I don't want to abandon the great privilages and blessings that He has for me. I'm so grateful that the Lord has brought me here to serve Him, so even though it gets hard sometimes I know that the it's a blessing to be here. I also don't want to leave because it's so fun spending time with my brothers and sisters here. I definitely don't want to leave the fellowship I have here...so I want to try and soak up as much as I can while I'm here, regardless of how much I miss home. I feel like being here has allowed me to mature in the Lord

But at the same time I also have enjoyed being a little childish

This so far has been a great experience, and the Lord no doubt has a lot more for me in store...I just thank Him for all the things He's done so far.

Wharf Jumping

2006-12-26T15:11:00.001-08:00

Today we went to the wharf again to jump off the walls, it was amazing! We had such a fun time.
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A bunch of us went on the big one pretty much right away.

Fearless Shannon stared death in the face and backhanded it with her ceremonial glove of doom(eh...well it wasn't really that dramatic, she pretty much just jumped off the wall into the water).

However, I was really proud of keegan, he took the big plunge! We were just about the leave, but then keegan built up his animal courage and rocked the jump!

Then afterwards I made a pig of myself and got a zacklet and a box of those little ice cream balls(I sure will miss those when I'm in the states). Overall we had a great time hanging out with each other. I think that the Lord brought together the perfect group for this semester! I've had so much fun just enjoying everyone's company...and I hope they've enjoyed mine.

2006-12-26T15:10:00.002-08:00

So, I didn't think that I was ever going to miss home, but I do. I really miss sitting in my living room while my dad sings karaoke to my mom. There's alot that I miss at home, but I know that the Lord has me here doing things to glorify Him. I'm so thankful that He's brought me here, I just know that I need the Lord's strength to get through it, because honestly I feel worn out. There's so many things going on in my mind all the time that I get so tired and worn out. I was thinking about Jesus' example and how He went to spend time with the Father when He was worn out, I think that I need more of that. My mind feels like a mess right now, and I'm super tired from today...ugh, I feel like i'm feeling sorry for myself...well besides all this junk, God is so amazing to me and I thank Him for all the things He's done!

2006-12-26T15:10:00.001-08:00

eh....well, when I went to youth group tonight I didn't expect to become a transvestite. We played a game where we each had a partner and we had to put makeup on each other. Even though we only had one kid there, it was a really fun time! On another note, I've been thinking alot lately about how the Lord is changing me more into His image, it leaves me in awe at how He can take someone like me, and make me more like Him. Looking at the things that He's doing in my life make me love Him more and more. I'm also seeing that while I'm maturing in my spiritual life, I look at the little kids like Asa(as crazy as he can be), unconsciously enjoying God and what He does for them, and I see how I should be enjoy all the things that God has given me. Even though I don't want to act childish, in a sense, I feel like there are so many things about them that just make God smile, I know it makes me smile to see them. I think that I take all the things that He gives me, for granted. I get so caught up in the things of life instead of enjoying God and the things that He's given to me! I tend to get worked up over little things that so trivial...when God just wants me to rest and enjoy. So I look forward to the blessing that He's going to give me, and hopefully I won't be so into myself that i'm blinded to His amazing blessings.
All I can say about my life right now is, God is so gracious to me, and I'm so thankful that He loves me the way He does, because I'm nothing at all without Him.

Tomodachis

2006-12-26T15:09:00.001-08:00

Today was a good day! We went out for lectures and got to spend some time with the Lord, then we went sliding these marble slides with cardboard! Amazing! I thought today I post up pictures of everyone out here so that you can be familiar with everyone!

This is Keegan...my little buddy! I love him, he's kinda like my little mexican brother! He's been a big comfort to me and a great source of encouragement!

I'm sure you all know brad! I'm glad that he's out here cause we've known each other a long time and it seems like old times! Plus he shares his candies with me!

heh......amazing! This is of course jeremy...altough we disagree alot we're pretty close, I love this guy a lot!

Joel Corindizzle even though he doesn't like to speak his mind that often and is very quiet, everyone is glad that he's here just to be with us.

Aaron(kamechan)...hmmmm well I'm definitely glad he's here because otherwise I'd be dead! But besides that he's been a blessing and an encouragement in lots of things! Maybe I'll learn some stuff from him, he's pretty smart!

This is Mark...amazing musician and cool friend. He's also single ladies...WHOO HOO!!!

Shannon(left) is a really cool girl! We got to go to camp together and had alot of fun together, Although she showed that she likes to cheat in scavenger hunts. Michelle(right) is also a great girl! It's been a huge blessing to see what a great heart for the Lord that she has! I love both of these girls and i'm really glad they're here!

Awwww Nicky! She always makes me laugh...such a funny gal. I think one day we'll make a hardcore band together. And if you read this, "Nicky, you're beautiful."(inside joke)hahahahaha

Haley! In the beginning of the semester she kept boasting that she was old enough to be my mom(she's three years older than me), but I think that she realizes that she acts more childish than I do. She's my quarter Japanese sister, and an おしり(just kidding Haley)!

The Djudjster! This girl is crazy and fearless! She'll beat you up if you aren't careful...well most likely not. But she is really funny, and she's rocking it from Austria!

And last but not least, our off campus student Erin(right). She's like the woman Bruce Lee, well sort of, actually not at all...but she does study a bit of the Karate.

2006-12-26T15:08:00.001-08:00

Jaa, I gave devotions today and I got a chance to share my heart everyone, which was pretty cool...I'm hoping the Lord blessed someone through me, if not I think I was blessed enough for everyone. The Lord gave me Philippians 4:3-7 to share with everyone...which was cool because I feel like I say and do all the wrong things, embarassing myself all the time, but it's cool knowing that the Lord loves me anyway, such a comfort. Now if only I can learn to better articulate my thought into something other than nonsense. We also went to something called M.E.L.T, my english lunch time, today. We were helping college students practice their えいご(english)! My japanese reading and writing is getting better. I read almost everything that's not Kanji(even though I'm supposed to be able to read EVERYTHING except kanji anyway) which is pretty exciting! I feel like even if I accomplish nothing else I learned a little bit of Japanese and grew in the Lord...hooray for me!

P.S. I realize the inconsistency and random directions that all my blogs so far have taken, I think I have a bit of the A.D.D, so bear with me, it's hard for me to consentrate on one thing at a time.

bored...

2006-12-26T15:06:00.000-08:00

So today we had church history class...ugh...listening to Dave Shirley for an hour and a half is so hard. I felt like there were little invisible sleep trolls spreading their sleeping dust on me and hanging off of my eyelids. Then he went a tangent for a thousand years...I don't even remember what it was about, hopefully I pass this class so I don't have to take it next semester. Besides that we had an amazing missions class because the guy speaking was talking about all the things that had been on my mind lately. It was such an encouragement to be reminded the Christ is always with me! whoo hoo! AH, I also got to witness Asa getting a haircut, amazing! Mostly because he was terrified to get it cut, and even let people see it afterward. Amazing....

The first one

2006-12-26T15:04:00.000-08:00

Wow...So It's come to this...blogging...So things have been going good this semester so far. It's getting to the middle of the semester, and I'm very glad that the Lord has brought me here. Although I love it here, things are getting harder for me. I'm not really homesick, but i'm really starting to miss my brother and it feels like Satan is trying to confuse me and make me stress over little things. I feel spiritually and physically tired, which I realized today that it's a good thing. I've feel like I've been so tired trying to fight off all these things that Satan is causing me to stress over, but I'm realizing that I really need to rely on Christ in everything. I've been trying to make all these things work in my life, but I know that I just need to rest in Jesus. So needless to say that I need a lot of prayer...hahahaha and I realize that this was a heavy first post, but it's always on my mind and I need the prayer, so thanks everyone!
nighty night all!