Day 61: MY 21ST BIRTHDAY!!!

Tuesday was my 21st birthday!!! There was no drinking going, but plenty of FUN!! This picture is just a few of the girls who came to my party! It was so fun!! We went to Chili's where I got a free chocolate cake for my birthday:) So delicious!! Then, we came back and decorated tons of cupcakes, then watched Paranormal Activity 3!! So grateful for these girls in the picture and the other girls who came to my party!! They made the night so incredible!!! Love you girls:)

Day 60: First Day of my Senior Year!!

Monday was my first day of school as a senior:) Thankfully, I only ONE class! And I only had to be there for 30 minutes. YAY!! This picture is just a picture of my binders, planner, and books for the semester! I'm getting closer and closer to finally becoming a teacher! Love it:)

Day 59: PEDICURES:)

My birthday present from my family was PEDICURES! Which was a perfect way to end my summer and begin a brand new school year!! This was SO fun! I'm so grateful to my family. I love them so much:):)

Day 58: Early Birthday Celebration!

My family celebrated my 21st birthday last night:) SO FUN!! We ordered pizza (my fave!) and my daddy picked me out an ice cream cake!! LOVE:) Then, we watched Hunger Games!! Ah! So fun!! Love my family!! I've had an amazing time at home!

Day 57: PUPPY ZONE

Got to go to one of my favorite places today: PUPPY ZONE! A super fun place where you can go and must hold puppies as long as you want!! This little one was my favorite of the day:) So So precious!! You can even buy a puppy if you want...but I prefer to just pick them up and hold them! 

Day 56: Rummy Marathon

My favorite part about being home is just hanging out with my family. My mom and I have become ADDICTED to playing Rummy together. Typically she wins, but I've gotten a lot better:) THIS is what I will miss when I head back to school. 
I've been so blessed with a tight-knit family! My mom is truly my best friend that I go to with everything. There are so many random quirks that I have, that I realize my mom has too...and I'm so glad I have them! I love being like my mom!!
This picture just represents almost every night I've been home!! We LOVE cards!!

Day 55: FIRST Volleyball Game

Tonight was Sarah's first official volleyball game of the season. My sister kicked BUTT! I can't even tell you how proud I am of her! Although they lost the game by 2 points, my sister never game up. Every time she rotated back onto the court, the team seemed to get perkier and more energetic! She brings so much to that team!! And man, she can serve and she can hit!! It's crazy! This little 5'7 girl was easily able to take on a 6'2 (or maybe even taller) girl! She's amazing!
This picture is of her jersey and a volleyball! I love this picture because it completely shows something that Sarah is extremely passionate about!! And something that she's awesome at!

Day 54: It's been 6 months

I can't believe it's been 6 months (last Sunday) since my Grandpa passed away. It is actually starting to sink in. I refused to believe it. But, the more time I spend at my Grandma's, the more it hits me. 
I completely see God in my Grandma's life. God has given my Grandma unbelievable strength to get through this time! Every day, I know that she wakes up broken. But, I know that God is slowly healing her. My Grandma is an amazing woman of God and she has completely given this situation to Him, and her faith has not wavered! She's truly inspiring.
But, being at Grandma's, just Grandma and me, is hard. Don't get me wrong, I have loved and treasured every moment spent with her. But, it's still hard. It's so quiet and lonely. My Grandpa is supposed to be there, yet when I walk into the living room, he's not on his recliner watching tv....where he always is. Sometimes when I'm there, I just can't get rid of the tears I cry. 
This is a picture of an old picture taken of my Grandpa and me years ago when he came to our house and helped with some construction around the house. He was such a hardworker, and most pictures taken of him are when he's been hard at work!! The picture of on top of my bible because he was the most godliest man I've ever known. Everyone who knew him knew he was a man of God. His knowledge and relationship with our Lord is truly inspiring.
Man, I miss him. But, I know that I'll get to see him again one day in Heaven! I truly can't wait for that day!

Day 53: SMASHBOOK.

Just a little look into my Smashbook! Here's a page from the book. It's like a pre-made scrapbook that you can put recipes, pictures, notes, designs, lists, tickets, and so much more in. I got mine at Hobby Lobby, but they're a couple dollars cheaper at Wal-Mart. They're SO neat. During the summer, I kept up with all the little notes I received from the teens and different souvenirs from different events. And I smashed all those memories into this book! 
This is a page dedicated to church camp. My name and mask (the theme was unmasked) on the left page and a few notes on the right page. Just fun memories to keep together in one book!

Day 52: HUNGER GAMES DVD!!!!!!

YESSS!! It's finally here! As soon as I got home last night from Grandma's, Sarah and I ran to the store and bought the Hunger Games dvd! I have been ready for the dvd since the movie premiered! I'm so happy to finally own this movie!!
There's not a whole lot to say about this picture except that I am SO happy August 18th finally happened:)

Day 51: Grandma's House

It was so neat to get to see the house that my Grandma grew up in! It's been renovated some and kept up real nicely, but this is place where Grandma lived for so many years as a kid. Right next to the house is a HUGE red barn that her Daddy built. And on the other side of the house is a stream with big rocks around it.  She used to love climbing all over those rocks and swimming there! As we drove by, so many memories seemed to flood back to her. She'd tell me about her neighbors and the swimming hole and other stories that came to mind! 

Day 50: Bluegrass time

You can only find this kind of music and entertainment in Shelbyville, TN.
From the outside, The Parkway Cafe (also known as Richard's) is a little, run down restaurant. Nothing too special. Once you walk in, you realize that this place is home to so many residents of Shelbyville. It's a little buffet with fried chicken, mashed potatoes, fried okra, shrimp, biscuits and cornbread, ice cream, and much more. It's a Southern home cookin'.
To truly get the experience of eating at a mom and pop restaurant in Shelbyville, you've gotta head towards the back where there is live Bluegrass music (on the weekends).
And let me tell you, these people (9 men, 1 woman) were really good! It was such a fun experience!
Today, I've really missed my Grandpa. Throughout the day, I've just been in tears. But, I love going to these places that remind me of my Grandpa! I love going to places where I can almost feel him with me. So I'm thankful that The Parkway Cafe gave me that feeling.

Day 49: AMAZING t-shirt quilt

I've been so excited to come to my grandma's for a couple nights and I'd knew I'd be able to take some fun pictures on this trip. Little did I know, I'd be taking a picture of my brand new t-shirt quilt! I gave her these t-shirts at the beginning of the summer, and my grandma let me know many times that she doesn't do the quilting part until the winter...BUT she SURPRISED me with a complete t-shirt quilt when I got here!
And isn't this the most stunning and gorgeous surprise??!!
I can't wait to bring it back to school and show it off to all my friends!
I told my grandma that all my friends would be jealous. And she laughed and said, "Well, that's what it's all about!!"
I'm so grateful that she made this for me! There are so many beautiful memories on that quilt. I'm very happy that I have all these memories in one place!!

Day 48: Homework Help!

Now that school's started back, it means late night homework time! All 3 of us kids are/were involved with sports, clubs, and youth group so we never got to homework until late at night! I still don't understand why high school teachers gave us all that homework like we didn't have a life or something. The best part about late night homework was how we could help each other and get our parents' help to when we didn't understand something. 
I only get to help Sarah when my college breaks are different from her school breaks and I can come home. And since I'm gonna be a teacher, I LOVE helping her with homework. But, Caleb's been here to always help her when she needed it.
Caleb's leaving on Saturday for his first year of COLLEGE. Crazy!! So, I thought I'd get one last picture of Caleb helping Sarah with her mythology homework. 
Not only is Sarah gonna miss all the homework help, but she's just gonna miss her big brother being around!!
So proud of Caleb and all his accomplishments! He was talented on and off the football field. I can't wait to see what God has in store for him for his future!!

Day 47: Scrapbooking Memories

TODAY was EXCITING!!! After hours of hardwork on this online scrapbook, it was FINALLY delivered today:) 
I've kept an eye out EVERY DAY when the mailman pulls up to see if he's got a package for me...and today, he finally did! 
Oh happy day!
If you can't tell from the picture, this scrapbook holds tons of pictures from my INCREDIBLE summer!
This summer was truly unforgettable, but I thought a scrapbook would hold all those unforgettable memories in one place. 
I went back and forth for weeks deciding whether to make a completely homemade scrapbook (which I've done before for a week long mission trip) or an online printable scrapbook. I finally decided on the online option--using www.shutterfly.com 
It was not only cheaper, but much less time consuming and WAY neater! And I could still make it as personal as I wanted to!
I'm so pleased with my decision and I can't stop looking through it! The memories are truly endless!

Day 46: Bridal Party!

Oh my goodness. Last night was a FUN night!! Katie's bridesmaids all got together at her house to have a big hangout before we go away to school and work!
We five girls grew up together from birth. Since high school, we've gone our separate ways for college, but we can always come back together and be with each other like we never left. I don't have this same bond with anyone else!
We made a pinterfest craft (shown in today's picture), ate pinterest cupcakes, had barbecue dinner, and looked for bridesmaid dresses! It was some much needed girl time, and I canNOT wait for next summer!
Let the wedding festivities begin:)

Day 45: Sarah drove us here!

Yes, this is a very sweet picture of us! I like it because it shows our close sister relationship. HOWEVER, that is not why I LOVE this picture. MY SISTER, who is 15 years old, drove us to this park! It's crazy that my baby sister is driving with her permit. And she truly does an incredible job. I used to be scared, but now it's just like I'm riding with one of my friends. Of course, I'm always backseating it since I'm not 21 yet, but it's still fun!
This picture signifies my sister's freedom to drive anywhere she wants to! It signifies her growing up and maturing! It signifies her taking on and accepting her new responsibilities! She truly is an incredible sister!
I've taught her well;)
So proud of everything she's become!!

Day 44: YUM...cupcakes!

I love cupcakes. Almost any kind. Red Velvet (#1), chocolate, lemon, vanilla, peanut butter, and so on!! Seriously! The icing is my favorite part. I have a major sweet tooth. 
So, that's why Jenna and I decided to bake cupcakes after our sleepover! I used FUNFETTI (woohoo!!!) batter and cream cheese icing! Delicious.
Now, here me, I never claimed to be Cake Boss and I may have made these cupcakes out of a box, but they were still baked with LOVE!
And when I brought these home, they were all eaten up that day!
AHHHH...I love cupcakes! I RARELY bake them or eat them, so when I do, I know it's gonna be a good day!

Day 43: HUNGER GAMES...again.

It was time for a girls' night out!! Sarah, her best friend, Raegan, my best friend, Jenna, and I went out on the town...well, dinner and a movie. We had lunch at my favorite place NOODLES!! Then, headed to the "Dollar" Theater to watch Hunger Games. This was all of ours 2nd or 3rd time seeing it, but it was Rae's first time! So, it was so fun seeing her reaction when my favorite parts happened! This picture just resembles great friendship and great fun!
I love coming home and getting to hang out with all these girls!

Day 42: Volleyball Hottie

First off, sorry about the picture quality...had to use my phone.
Last night was my sister's first scrimmage on Farragut High's Varsity Volleyball Team! She is INCREDIBLE!! I absolutely love watching her! I've left college on the weekends many times to travel to her vball tournaments! I'm so proud of her! I love to watch her flawless serves and her slams over the net! 
She's come so far from when she started many years ago in CBFO. She's always been a natural! I can't wait to see her continue to grow and get even better!
Oh, and maybe it doesn't officially count, but they won:)

Day 41: Takin Peanut to the park

This is our wittle doggy, Peanut! We usually never take him out because he never obeys us...but Sarah and I were feeling adventurous today! So, we took Peanuty to the park and he LOVED it! We went on little trails and he was so excited! He kinda got annoyed that we kept stopping for pictures...as you can tell in this picture, he wasn't thrilled to be stopping, but he did so well:) He didn't bark at any of the other dogs! Woohoo! 

Day 40: God's Majestic Creation

Yesterday I spent much of the day outside, which I haven't done in a while. I loved just breathing in all of God's creation. Everything He's made is gorgeous! Other than the window reflection in the picture, this is my favorite picture! I spent the day outside at the park and at a softball game. I loved every minute. 
I know I don't take near enough time just enjoying nature. 
What's incredible is that the blue sky, white clouds, green grass, clear lake is not near as beautiful as us! Because God created us in His image! In God's eyes, we are more breathtaking than the things in this picture!
Thank you, God, for fresh air!!

Day 39: I'M HOME!!!!!

I am so excited to finally get some family time! My family's favorite thing to do is play cards! We are super competitive, and many times, someone walks away from the table and quits because they're losing...yet, we always come back to playing!! Caleb was working out at the Rush when I took this picture, but we can sometimes talk him into playing with us! 
Tonight we played our favorite game, Castle! Sarah and I both won once. Mom and Dad both won three times. Needless to say, it was a better night for the parents. 
These are my favorite moments about being home..just hanging out with my family!
I'm so blessed to have such a close, loving family!

Day 38: NEW Sister and Brother in Christ

Sunday was an INCREDIBLE day. It was my official last Sunday at Otter Creek. I couldn't have asked for a better last day. I got to witness two amazing middle schoolers commit their life to God and get baptized. It was a truly beautiful day. 
Seth, who is the most JOYFUL person I know, got baptized...and he was kind enough to ask me to speak at his baptism....I was shocked because I felt so unworthy, but I was completely flattered and grateful. 
Madeline Rubio (in the picture) also got baptized. It's been wonderful to see this beautiful young woman of God grow this summer. She has such a big heart for everyone! She always puts people before...which is something that I learned from her. I KNOW that God has big plans for her in her future! I cannot wait to see how God uses Madeline! 

Day 37: ....and DONE. All packed up.

ALL PACKED UP! I'm headed to Knoxville tomorrow after church. It's gonna be so weird leaving Brentwood--I've really become attached to the Ligon's house, Target, Mazatlan, Chill Spot, SONIC, and obviously Otter Creek Church! 
I came into this job really not liking the Nashville area, and I'm leaving this job already missing this area!! I've become attached to so many places and it truly makes me sad to leave.
Even though I'm sad I'm leaving, I know I'll be back to visit ALL THE TIME! 
I'm beyond thankful that God placed me here. I now know that He will do AMAZING things with you if you just listen! If you give Him control, He will absolutely blow your mind!
This is a bitter sweet ending. All of these packed bags means I'm leaving the best summer job I've ever had and I'm getting to go home and see my incredible family and friends that I've missed so much.
Thank you, Father, for everything You gave me this summer! 

Day 36: Jamesy-Greatest Co-Intern Ever!

Friday was mine and James' last day together as middle school interns. It's been a CRAZY summer and I'm so glad that we got to work through everything together! It's been AWESOME.
We've worked on videos, kickoffs, mission weeks, slideshows, classes, lock-ins, mystery trips, and so much more together. We've spent countless hours hanging out instead of working. He gave me fashion advice in Forever 21. He's introduced me to a lot of new music. 
He is an INCREDIBLE role model to those middle school boys. It's so cool to see the impact he's had on these kids after just one year of working here.
After we said bye to each other on Friday, it was weird cause it felt like we were gonna see each other again the next day...like we always did....but this time was different, because it'll be a long time till we see each other again. 
James has been put through trial after trial the past couple of years, and a lot more of hit him this summer. His strength and faith in God is truly encouraging. 
God truly blessed me with pairing me up with James this summer. This has been the greatest summer of my life and it would have been LAME to not have him there.
I love you, Jamesy, and I can't wait to see what God does with you as a youth minister!
Btdubs, sorry about this lame background in the picture, but it is a lot better than a gigantic whiteboard.

Day 35: It's actually come to an end

When we all six met together for the intern retreat in May, I had no idea how close I get to each of these people. I also had no idea how quickly this summer would fly by! Each person here has blessed me in some way, and for that I am grateful! Working with this team this summer was truly life changing! 
Every person in this picture has worked so hard to create an amazing experience this summer for these OCYG kids. But, in the process, God created an amazing experience for all of us!! God knew which people would be the perfect interns for this summer and He brought us here.
I have never been with another youth group as awe-inspiring and life-changing as this group! I can't wait to visit frequently and see what God is doing in this youth group! I can already see Him moving in their hearts! 
I cannot believe this was our last night to hang out! And my last official day is tomorrow. I'll be very happy to go home and see my family and friends! But, I have created ever-lasting bonds with the girls here. I can't imagine not spending every day with them like I've done this summer. 
As we transition from summer to school, we'll all get busy, move on with our lives, and make new friends. But, we'll always have these rich memories to hold onto for the rest of our lives.
Thank you, Winn, James, DKnox, Rubio, and Nick for an AMAZING summer!!

Day 34: CAMP NIGHT!

Tonight was AWESOME! It was camp night at OC. We praised like we did at camp and watched an amazing slideshow from camp! It was so wonderful looking back on all those sweet memories  from camp. I loved seeing the pictures from worship, games, canteen, slip n slide, and so much more!! This is a picture of some of my girls and I representing the tie-dye!! I can't believe that this is my last night as an OCYG intern!
I am beyond blessed to have this opportunity to work here. I had dreams of what I thought the summer may be like, but my dreams didn't even touch the AWESOMENESS of what this summer ended up being! I can't believe that God chose ME to come here.
I am humbled by His grace, love, and confidence. 
I am walking away from this experience completely changed. And I can't wait to visit these girls every chance I get!!