What are you waitin' for?

This is the most appropriate song to describe how I am feeling right now. It's a new hit. Listen and Enjoy! :)

Nothing is greater. Nothing at all.

Hi friends,

Tonight I am the bearer of the most unfortunate news. A few minutes ago I found out that Nate Henn was killed in a suicide bombing in Uganda, while doing work for Invisible Children, a non-profit dedicated to helping children in Uganda. I am so sad to hear about the death of a hero in my eyes, so much sacrifice. Let everyone be inspired. I know I am. What is greater than losing your life supporting what you believe in, and completely selflessly to benefit others? It reminds me of a similar sacrifice. Nothing is greater. Nothing at all.

To find out more about Nate and his story check out this website and his story here or on the news at

 http://abcnews.go.com/TheLaw/International/nate-henn-uganda-victim-strong/story?id=11144253




Love you all,

Nel

Cafe 1040

Something interesting happened to me the night before last. I received a potentially life-changing call from a man with Cafe 1040. He told me all about their ministry and how they are trying to reach the unreached. I was deeply moved by our phone conversation and have been exploring the cafe 1040 website. If you are a college student or someone in your 20's and are interested in investing 3 months to serve Christ here is a great opportunity. This seems like an incredible way to spend a summer or a semester. I do not know what journey I will be taking within the next year or two but this could be an exciting opportunity.

Check out there website here if you want insight on a global perspective.

You can also become a fan on facebook and get updates at http://www.facebook.com/cafe1040?v=app_4949752878

Thanks guys!

Danella

"Since I Have My Life Before Me"

Hey everyone!

Its been so long since i last blogged. Thanks to the encouragement of my wonderful roommate brittany hines (thoughtsbybhines@blogspot.com) I decided its time to blog again. So much has happened this summer that I just couldnt zone in on something to write about. There is this one thing in particular though that I havent been able to get off my mind so I am going to share it with you.


I am in the middle of the book Crazy Love by Francis Chan and throughout the book it has been inspiring me to make the most of where I am now. This book has made me think about life in a different way, got me thinking. Recently Ive been asking myself questions like..What am I really doing in Raleigh NC this summer?  Have I become complacent and too routine? Am I living up to my full potential? What is my purpose here? Am I being selfish with my time? Is Christ my first love?

If you have asked yourself similar questions keep reading. I think you will find this inspiring, like I did. What if we lived life like Brooke Bronkowski?

This is an excerpt from the book Crazy Love, and surprisingly was written by 12 yr old Brooke Bronkowski.

Since I have My Life Before Me

I'll live my life to the fullest. I'll be happy. I'll brighten up. I will be more joyful than I have ever been. l will be kind to others. I will loosen up. I will tell others about Christ. i will go on adventures and change the world. I will be bold and not change who I really am. i will have no troubles but instead help others with their troubles.
You see, I'll be one of those people who live to be history makers at a young age. Oh, I'll have moments good and bad, but i will wipe away the bad and only remember the good. In fact that's all that I remember, just the good moments. nothing in between, just living my life to the fullest. I'll be on of thsoe people who go somewhere with a mission, an awesome plan, a world-changing plan, and nothing will hold me back. I will set an example for others, i will pray for direction.
I have my life before me. I will give others the joy I have and God will give me more joy. I will do everything God tells me to do. I will follow the footsteps of God. I will do my best!!!

Brooke Brownkowski was tragically killed in a car accident two years later at such a young age, but had a lasting impact on so many people in her short life. She is my inspiration.

Her message hit home for me. What more can I do? What more can you do?

-Danella

Your Love is Strong

Check out these lyrics guys..I think this could easily become my new favorite song. I heard it for the first time today and something about the lyrics really gripped me. Hope it affects you like it did me. You may have heard it but just in case, here it is..... Its called Your Love is Strong by Jon Foreman.





Your Love is Strong 

Heavenly Father

You always amaze me

Let your kingdom come

In my world and in my life

You give me the food I need

To live through the day

And forgive me as I forgive

The people that wronged me

Lead me far from temptation

Deliver me from the evil one



I look out the window

The birds are composing

Not a note is out of tune

Or out of place

I look at the meadow

And stare at the flowers

Better dressed than any girl

On her wedding day



So why do I worry?

Why do I freak out?

God knows what I need

You know what I need



Chorus (3x):

Your love is

Your love is

Your love is strong



The kingdom of the heavens

Is now advancing

Invade my heart

Invade this broken town

The kingdom of the heavens

Is buried treasure

Will you sell yourself

To buy the one you've found?



Two things you told me

That you are strong

And you love me

Yes, you love me



(Chorus 3x)



Our God in heaven

Hallowed be

Thy name above all name

Your kingdom come

Your will be done

On earth as it is in heaven

Give us today our daily bread

Forgive us wicked sinners

Lead us far away from our vices

And deliver us from these prisons

-Danella

Im so LOST

Ok everyone,

There are only a few more seasons of what has grown to be my new favorite show...LOST. I have to admit that i have not always been a faithful, committed Lost fan. Before this season I knew absolutely nothing about Lost. I find it quite ironic that my first season watching Lost is actually the last and final season. it all started this semester when a friend invited me over for Lost night after Raleigh Worship. It quickly became one of the highlights of my week as I realized so many other people shared the same enthusiasm. I borrowed the 1st 3 seasons from a friend, went through the first season like it was chocolate cake, just couldnt get enough. Then I got sick with a stomach bug and watched the second season in less than a week. Now im on season 3. Half way through. My goal is to catch up by May 23rd, THE SEASON FINALE. Think I can do it? Well, recently my roommate got hooked as well (after my constant persistance)

So we were sitting in the living room avoiding studying when an interesting conversation came up. Who is the more desirable guy....JACK or SAWYER? So we decided to take a poll.

What do u guys think??? Who would u choose

The Art of Latte

Today was EPIC! As some of you know, I work at Royal Bean Coffee shop, and have been for almost a year now. I am just learning how to do some latte art and have been practicing how to do a heart out of the foam. Today I succeeded in making a heart for a customer! Thought I would record it and show you all.
Ok so maybe it wasnt that epic, but I was pretty pumped!

<3 Nellady

What's Life Without Weather?

Does anyone else ever feel like their mood is directly related to the weather? Though I am a generally happy person, I have recently found myself extremely exuberant and satisfied with life every single day for the past week or or so. Like overly ecstatic about little things, ask my roommates..haha The wonderful weather, a consistant sunny streak, has a way of changing things.

Yesterday, as I was getting coffee with a friend and we were discussing how it is so hard to find "God-time", just 15 or 20 minutes of undivided attention. I am not much of a morning person and always seem to be rushing around. At night I literally pass out as soon as I hit the pillow, often falling asleep while doing homework really late. So I started thinking, Am I too busy? When can I have my "God-time"? I decided I needed a time without rushing, buzzing cell phones, ipods, computers, or friends. No distractions, just me and God. So.... for those of you who have asked yourself the same questions let me share a little helpful secret with you all that my friend suggested to me.

You can carry a Bible with you. Think about a break in between your classes and pick a 20 minute slot of time. Then just find your favorite spot, a relaxing quiet area. For me, outside! That's where the beautiful weather comes in to play!!

I tried it out this morning in between PE classes and  found a swing in a grassy area.  I  felt overwhelming peace and joy in my heart as I rested my head on my backpack and looked up at the sky and trees. A bird was chirping. Nature has a way of getting to me. I thought to myself, I need nothing else. I am completely 100% happy and enjoying life. Ahhh! Thank you God. 
Then I opened up to Psalms and read this verse in Psalm 47 - "How awesome is the Lord Most High, the great King over all the earth."

Taking a few minutes to praise the Creator has made a world of a difference in my attitude and overall well being. This is something I can look forward to doing more of. Hope you will too!

-Nellady

For me, the beginning is in the end

Hey guys!

Im back! Its been a while since I've blogged, mostly because I've been busier this semester than I ever have. Recently, I have had decided to make this last semester at State the best one yet by doing everything Ive always wanted to do. I'm making the most of it. We're half way through already! When I look back at all that has happened and look ahead at the future, I get so excited! I am so blessed. So here's a quick update on whats been going on in my life in this final semester.

1) Last week, on wed. I went to a Copeland concert in Carborro, at Cat's Cradle. My first time there, Copeland's final farewell tour, got to meet aaron marsh. Lets just say it was a great day.

2)The following friday, I went with 5 of my closest friends to the beach and stayed in my friend, Sagan's beach house. After a rough week of tests it felt so nice to just chill. Best weekend I have had all semester.

3) The beach weekend included kayaking, random games and movies, fishing..etc.

4) Tuesday, my friends and I went to Blue flame, and I got a NOSE RING. inspired by Sagan lampe, Ted Yap, Bryant Cook, and Beth Moore. I was so nervous at first, but now I'll admit that I love it!

5) This past friday I went to the Oyster Bar dowtown and got oysters, interesting enough. Then, my sister, her spanish roommmate, another friend, and I went out to the cupcake shoppe, and one of my favorite coffee shops, Morning Times, while exploring downtown.

6) On Friday, I also bought a new pair of tennis shoes, which I spent with the money I did not have to pay for parking tickets....which reminds me...

7) In Bible study wednesday night, we were talking about the power of prayer. I said a little prayer before I went in to pay 3 parking tickets, $40 each! Not good. When I walked in the women behing the counter told me that for some reason, unknown to her, all the charges were voided. I owed 0.00. What a great day! God does answer prayers and is so faithful even in the small things.

8) I found 2 wonderful roommmates for next year at UNCW.

9)My good friends from California, Callista, just released their CD this week after about 2 yrs of waiting to hear their new music. Check it out!
http://www.myspace.com/callistamusic
10) My parents are moving to California in May, so my plans have been up in the air. Its so exciting to think that I could be moving out there with them in the near future. I want to get a group of friends together and make the drive across country this summer! anyone else wanna join me?

11) I saw my dad for the first time without a mustache. For those of you who know him, this is a BIG DEAL. He hasnt shaved his mustache since college. He shaved it for a benefit event, raising 4,000 for erraticating polio.

12)I'm going to Nashville TN for the first time since i have lived in NC. I've always wanted to go, because i love music. Spring break with the roomies has been long awaited.

12) I learned how to play KISS ME by sixpence none the richer on the ukulele.

13)I made the perfect heart, practicing my latte art at Royal Bean. Its gettin there.

14) I started watching LOST with some friends after 6 seasons, just to see what all the hype was about, and i really like it. Starting at season one. Think i can finish them all by the grand finale? We'll see.

Thats all.

After all that said, God has been fitting together the pieces of my life, giving me direction, and giving me peace. I feel so blessed and at the same time excited about all the opportunities and things that have happened this semester.

What is going on in your life?

Danella

Are u Satisfied?

Are You Satisfied?

That is the question that I was faced with tonight as i heard a young couple speak about life, love, relationships, and fulfillment.
When I look back on my life a few years from now I don't want to see how I wasted so much time on pursuing trivial things, things that mattered so much then but now are insignificant .We live in a world, constantly being distracted by temporary satisfaction in whatever it is that makes us the most happy at the time. How many countless hours have I wasted on facebook, twitter and other social networks? Not to mention all the relationships I have pursued that ended in a crushing blow to my self esteem. I put all my hope in imperfect people, thinking they would make my life more satisfying, when really I was left disappointed. If only I could date him, have physical intimacy, work out harder, or changed something about myself then I would be more satisfied with my life. I could change my major or life direction. These are the type of things that keep us forever wanting, forever trying to attain . The next step, the next best thing. We all think this way. I mean, don't you? When does the longing ever end? Are we ever truly content with our lives? Epiphany! Tonight I was reminded how all these things that i persistently pursue have left me empty and in many cases hurt. That is such a hard reality.

Some college students were asked a couple questions, "What satisfies you, and do u think u can ever be ultimately satisfied? Here are some of their responses when asked what satisfies them. Food, chocolate, sex, my boyfriend, my friends, my job, exercising...those are the most satisfying things in life? Yes, I could not agree more that those are all great things, but how sad would it be if those pleasures were the best there is, all there is.

C.S. Lewis once said

if the things of this world leave you unsatisfied then there must be something greater.

It was so good to be reminded again of my purpose, our purpose. What am i really here for? No wonder why i feel unsatisfied with the things the world has to offer. I have not been focusing on the things that will last, the eternal things. There is nothing more fulfilling then pursuing Christ, and then everything else is just icing on the cake. That is what we were made for.

-Nellady

TOMS

As most of your know TOMS shoes are high in demand right now. I really hope that this is not just another fad. I hope that people see what a great thing this is. To express yourself through a really unique pair of shoes, while also helping a child by giving them a pair. Every time you buy a pair, another pair is dropped off to a child in need of shoes. One for one. Doesnt get better than that.

I really wish I could have met the founder of TOMS, Blake Mycoskie, when he came to NC State. I think we would have connected. He seems like such a cool guy. I mean how awesome would it be to sit down and talk to him about all the places he's been and new projects he is doing to help people. This is one of my dreams/aspirations. I follow his twitter posts and love how he travels to exciting places. There is nothing more contagious than to watch someone fulfill their dream. I am glad that I can be a part of that in some small way. I wish I had this many pairs! http://twitpic.com/11te12

See if you can find both my pair of TOMS on the TOMS wall, or post your own pics with your TOMS. www.tomsshoes.com/flag.aspx Feel free to check out Blake's blog if you want to know more about the cool stuff going on. This is a link to everything, his blog, twitter. etc. Check it out! www.tomsshoes.com/Community

So if you are one of those people who havent bought a pair yet and are on the fence, well just go for it! Go to TOMSshoes.com You wont regret it, promise!

Heartbreak Warfare

This is a hard post to write about, because I feel more exposed than normal. There is always a risk to writing about matters of the heart.

Let me be completely honest with you. This week I was challenged. The issues I struggle with most came at me, full speed, like in tennis when the machine spits balls at you too fast too react. (especially when u are bad at tennis like me) This is how my life felt this past week, one tennis ball after another flying right in my direction, hitting me from every angle. When you pray to God for brokenness and humility, be prepared for Him to step in and show you all the areas in your life where you have failed miserably. Just admitting to you how I have failed is humbling in itself. Life can be painful.

Like John Mayers new song "Heartbreak Warfare", heartbreak warfare is disappointing and no one ever wins. I will not go into the details but there is someone who I care about that I hurt, and sadly, that person hurt me deeply as well. I had been clinging so tight, placing all my faith in a person, only to be sadly disappointed. But God gave me the ability to LET GO. I feel like God is wiping my slate clean, so that I can start over again, move on. Look ahead and not behind. God has the power to redeem us, to rid us of the sin in our lives and all that is holding us back, even ongoing things. For me, it was a relationship. But I now have so much peace in letting go, forgiving, and admitting where I was wrong.

I learned that "every action has an equal and opposite reaction." No one is exempt from falling into temptation. I didnt realize until now the extent of my actions and how much I hurt someone I care about. I fell so far down that I felt like the hole was too deep to climb out of. I realized how far from perfect I am, and that I should stop trying to pretend that I am. Now I can appreciate God's grace in a whole new way because I know that I need Him, more than I knew before.

As i was singing in Raleigh worship on Tuesday night I looked around the room and realized that all of us are in the same boat. None of us are exempt. We struggle. We make mistakes. Let us not judge, but instead learn how to support and love each other better.

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." -James 1:2-4

"But above all, love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins"

"Take heart I have overcome the world"

I am so thankful that God addressed these areas of my life, broke my heart, and showed me how much I need Him. He wiped out everything and showed me how to love and forgive better. Such a beautiful thing!

So I challenge you to ask God how He can work in your life to transform you into the person He wants you to be. What is holding you back? And how can you love better?

~Nel

Ask Me

The Power Of Words

Dear Blog,

I'm sorry I have neglected you over the past month and holiday season. Last night I found out that my parents would NOT be coming down for my 21st birthday this weekend. What a stinkin bummer!! There is a snow storm that has just started creeping in. Of course, a snow storm on my 21st birthday! And we are expecting up to half a foot in Raleigh!!! This is ridiculous. As bummed as I was that my family couldnt come to celebrate with me, I promised myself I would make the most of it. Thanks to being snowed in, I am now taking a break on my comfy couch to write. (Dont worry the fun will start tomorrow) ;) Also, part of the reason I chose to pick up blogging again was because I realized the power of words and was truly inspired by my friends today.

I was so encouraged when three of my friends told me they started blogging as well. We have so much potential impact others through pursuing our own passions and exploring our gifts. Rachel, after reading my blog decided to give it a try. My friend Sagan is pursuing her dream as a writer by starting with her very own blog. My roommate Brittany posted her first few pictures today, in hopes to express herself creatively through photography (and her pictures are amazing by the way). Thanks to all of you out there who are taking a huge risk by expressing yourselves.

To all of you who have read my blog and commented I truly appreciate it. It makes my writing worth it. And for those of you who dont have a blog yet because you dont know what to say or where to start, well, go for it! Don't give up. Take it one day at a time and start exploring what your passions are. I started by reading other people's blogs, figuring out why they are so interesting to read, and went from there. Have you ever had something you cared about so much that you just had to tell people about it? Write about it! These are some questions that might help you get started. What are your passions? What do you want others to know about you? What interesting even happened in your day? Did you have an epiphony about something? A funny story?

Hope that helps.

Everyone has something to say. It's all about finding your own unique way of saying it.

Love you all.

*Nel