Someday...

So, SOMEDAY, I will get better pics of my tour, especially what our stage looked like, etc, but for now, you will just have to settle with the pics that I have... Let's see, I may have to make this a "two-poster", let's see what one I click on.. ahhhh yes. this is me: enjoyable, eh? (man, I miss my long hair.) And I'm not quite sure where we were in our travels: it looks cold: but I'm not wearing long sleeve, lol.... and the next one.... ah yes... here is me and what I THINK is all of my tour.. somewhere, in some state. lol. sorry guys, you know I have a horrible memory! But it's somewhere warm....lol...... Wow warm weather, what is that like? Okay, OKAY, I know... you ALL think that's MAD warm here, but it's not. it's like 50 degrees, and I'm always cold. in my apartment: I'm NEVER on my couch w/oo my blanket! lol!.... Okay, these pictures didn't post how I wanted them,..... so I'll try to figure it out w/ the next post. :) STAY TUNED!!

My Crazy, Crazy Kids.

Okay so here's a pic of most of my counselors, a few had already gone home (there is a few of us that got hidden, lol)... and this is the last day, and they all hated me about an hour before this pic, 'cause I made them all get up so we could have one last chance to pray for each other and encourage one another in the Word. haha. Good times. Anyways, this post is for them.

I love Living Waters w/ all of my heart, but every summer, I was like, "nope, I'm not going back"... haha. and summer of '05 was no exception. I thought I would be living in NH, but God had different plans. Just so happens that the Lord thought I was finally ready for MY dream job: head female counselor. I was always so burdened for the counselors, and I was excited to try to encourage them and have them love Jesus as much as I did.

But the Lord had much to teach me!! He used my counselors to change my life, in so many different ways. In Christian camping, you often have your one or two counselors that truly love Jesus, but it was the opposite. Almost every single one of them had a heart and a passion for Jesus... I was so blessed. We saw over 120 decisions made just in 3 weeks: it could only be God.

And there are soooooo many precious memories: prayer times, laughing times, confrontational times... haha. And for the first time since high school: I wish I could go back.

Living Waters: Know that I am praying for you! And though I don't think it possible :) , I pray that it will be the best summer yet there, for staff and campers. I LOVE YOU!!!!!

Wow, so I'm HORRIBLE...

Wow, okay, so I am most definitely becoming a horrible blogger. sorry ya'll.

Let's see...not whole lot has happened... I lead a typical full-time life: go to work, come home, exercise (though not this week, lol...) and sleep, and do it all over!

Oh, I found a pic of me and one of my dearest friends! Her name is Alison, and we originally both from Calais, but she moved away, she had been a camper of mine one summer at LW, and yeah (I went to school w/ her older brother), and she's about 3-4 years younger, so we never really knew each other.... anyways, well, this summer she was one of my counselors, and we became really really close... and still are! She's like a sister to me! Truly! I praise the Lord for her ALL the time (as you too!).. well, w/o further ado:

haha, there she is! I love her!! (and can you SEE the tan I had? man, I was dark! I still have lines! lol) and some day, you'll see pics of my new hair: she's the one who's hair cut style I got! lol!! Anyways... I think I may post another pic.... but this is it for now.

Oh, I've lived in California for 4 months, and one day.

peace.

PEOPLEFISHER.COM

PEOPLEFISHER.COM IS SWEEETT! It's EXACTLY like a myspace, but Christian. Well, come on now, you're always going to have fakers, but you don't have the adds all around it, so you don't see girls barely dressed, etc. It's awesome! check mine out!!!! www.peoplefisher.com/Shaunamarie00 (so original, I know! I couldn't think!). Anyways, that's it folks. just wanted you all to know. Thanks for my friend Eric for introducing it to me!

Kind...of....um...my town....

Well, sorry ya'll, haha, I guess I could've done this MUCH sooner, but this is my beach that I drive by (and almost walk by, haha) daily. So, for my PEI peeps, you've already seen this on Jonny B's blog, but for the rest of you (that NEVER comment), this is what it looks like! Aren't I soooooooooo blessed? K, got to go now! PEI'rs, the previous blog is for you: and, well, for any of you that have prayed for me... Love each of you!

Mostly to My Pei'rs.

Well, PEI'rs. It's been about 360 days since I have seen almost all of you. Almost a year since I have had fun with you, smiled with you, laughed with you (or haha, AT you), cried with you and learned with you, and from you. So here's what's happened in one year.

May: graduated from the BI. Some of you were there! oh MY! thank you for coming! I then spent several weeks with my dearest friend in the world: and some of my other favorites. Took care of Josiah for a week, and realized, how thankful I was that I wasn't a mom yet, but how excited I would be to have my own... haha, SOMEDAY.

June: hhmm, I thought I knew His immediate will for me at the time, but He quickly changed how I saw things, and accepted a job as co-Female Head Counselor and Asst. Program Director. Excited out of my mind, but just starting to get a wee bit scared about the Fall....but He was teaching me the importance and blessing of just "praying on the spot", which would turn out to be life changing....

July: full swing of camp: trials and blessings. $$ for Continentals? Slowly trickeling in....

August: made some great friends with some peeps from Florida, got to be a mentor and a sister to some of those girls. Got the privilege to pray with an amazing prayer warrior, Holly, wow. And then realized just how amazing my counselors were: they gave me or $750 dollars for trip. And I ended up having more money than I thought: I was set to go... still short, but enough for me to travel.

September: rehearsal camp and touring. I loved it. The rest of my money FINALLY came in, on HIS timing...Turned 23 on the 16th: my host mom and kid brought me cupcakes for the whole tour... I was so blessed. I was enjoying my life...(Did I mention I met a man who had been born in Calais?...)

October: Saw a couple of friends in Florida... but then, depression hit. Hit an all time low on tour. Just couldn't shake the low self esteem and pride... pride b/c "why was I on tour if I wasn't great?". But at the end, I just finally realized that I could only go out there and give my best: that's all that I could do. I needed to realize that I was being genuine, and that I needed to become comfortable with myself in my own skin

November: half way thru the month, I realized, "Oh MY word, I have no idea what I'm doing for my life in 3 weeks".... God soon answered. I was asked if I would consider a job with the Continentals... I knew my answer. Then I just sat back and enjoyed New Zealand and Fiji. haha. In Fiji, I said "Ok, Lord. I'll be a missionary if You want me to be." I left some of my heart there....

December: on the 4th, I accepted the job with the Continentals. Flew "home" (N.Hampshire)... had a wonderful few weeks with my dearest friends... did the drastic "hair cut", spent a few days with a couple other dear friends.... finally went home, packed up my life in 2 weeks, into 2 suitcases..... then...

January: the 2nd: flew out to Los Angeles, California. Traveled 2 hours to begin a new adventure. Loved my job... oh yeah: then saw Jonny as he started out his 3 month adventure!

February and March: life got tough. The reality of it all hitting me, and it was almost unbearable. Between not spending time with my Lord and missing my friends sooooo badly, I didn't know what to do. But I knew all along... I soon started regularly attending RealityCarpenteria... and that was the beginning of my life changing time out here...(Oh yeah, I got to see my other friend Jon, and Nate, as they came to visit me, as they were out here in SoCal... one of THE best times that I've had yet out here..)

April: Finally realized that my life isn't about me: It's ALL about Him. And what He wants to do thru me. His Word, once again, became a priority, and so did just spending time with Him. I'm sick of all the excuses that I had come up with to become a lazy, lukewarm Christian. I was sick of hiding in my shell, wanting others to just like me.... I started being who I wanted to be.

So, this is where I am. I am by NO means at a perfect spiritual state, (Lord, may I never reach it 'til I am with You)... as I still struggle daily, just waking up to spend time with Him. But life is so much more beautiful when you do.

Pei'rs, thank you soooooooooooo much for your precious prayers. They have helped to mold me and change me. I can't wait for you to get your reward.... and I can't WAIT to see you again: not only on your island, but to spend eternity with you. I will never forget you.

God Bless.

"When You said unto me, 'Seek ye My face'; My heart said unto You, 'Your face Lord, will I seek." ~Psalm 27:8

sorry, it's been a while...

hey ya'll: what's up?

well, I've been having a GREAT day. Let me tell you . Work was just amazing. I've been emailing university after university, about contact info for instrumentalist/vocalists, and today I was reaping a harvest!! What a blessing! The first thing, was that I received an email from a secretary, saying she was an ex-con (those of you that don't know, that means EX-CONTINENTAL, haha) so that was suuuch an encouragement! and then it just went on from there. What a blessing today was, surely, it was from the Lord.

And I was already on a high 'cause I had some time with Jesus this morning, just not enough. It had been a few days, and I was draining, but this morning was good. Always remember that in order to flow out: you need to be taking it in.

And what a beautiful few days it has been here. Quite fabulous. and tomorrow is Friday! woo woo! STARBUCKS day! haha.

let's see, honestly, not much to report. I thought I was going to a concert tonight, but my friends decided not to go. So, it's kind of a bummer 'cause I ran around like a chicken w/ its head cut off, getting ready for it... but, I just try to realize that the Lord's got a reason for it: who knows? maybe I would've been in an accident, ya' know? Or maybe someone's going to call, or something. Or maybe I'll never know: but I know that it's okay. I'm in Jesus' hands, and He's in His Father's. (although, He's my Daddy too... yay!)

New "Edit"ions....

Hey ya'll: just a quick post for you to notice the "new 'edit'ions".... haha. My profile.... I changed that a bit, and Sarah and Sawatsky's: I just added you!! Sorry that I haven't done it sooner!! But I check your blogs alllll the time! And those of you that think I should add something else, just let me know.... I'll probably be adding GBC soon... patience! haha!!

Great day! first of all... it's a 3 day weekend! (well, it was, anyways.) Had Friday off.... went to a Service that night at Reality.... it was sweet. They ended it by bringing out a wooden cross, and had paper and pencils for us, and we were to think of a sin that we had commited (habitual, or something that we just can not seem to give God and have Him keep it!) and go up and literally nail it to the cross. It was awesome. Ya' know though, it's cool, how He works. Because for some people, it was a very emotional time: and there's nothing wrong with that at all! But for me: it wasn't. It was just, "ya' know Shauna, this is your sin, and you need to do something about it." So I did! I find that many Christians today try to make every decision and life changing moments be emotional: but it doesn't have to be! Not every salvation in Scripture or life-changing moments were emotional: they just did it! (and He just did it!)

anyways, and so my roomate went to celebrate Easter with her boyfriend at his parents place, so I gots the place to myself! (yikes:( anyone remember my first week at Bev's by myself? haha... ) But I did a very thorough SPRING CLEANING!! yay! and finished the night before Easter by watching "the 10 Commandments"! That's right, the good one, with Charleton Heston!! Gotta' love it!!

Easter at Reality (www.jesusisreality.com) and then time with a family tomorrow that I barely even know! Yikes!! haha, but it should be good. They're good friends of my roomate, so it'll be a good time, that's for sure!! Love you all!!

Nettie, how was the birthday?? :0)

Today I am......

....am very tired.

that's it.

tired. 'cause I didn't get to bed 'til almost one, due to a Young Con concert (which was TOTALLY amazing... totally) that I went to.

so I'm exhausted.

but I don't have to work tomorrow.

yay.

and nettie's birthday is tomorrow! yea!

bye.

comment.

Huh.

Huh. So I actually have no idea what to blog about. But it's funny though: I get mad when ya'll don't post every day, or couple of days, but then expect ya'll to understand why I don't blog. Wow, I'm so selfish!

Just got back from exercising on the beach: yay!!!!!!!! Wish ya'll could be here. That'd be awesome. Come visit me! It's so beautiful here!! Must be 70 something degrees here today, yay!!!!!!!!!!!!! Saturday mornings there's a market with all fresh veggies and fruits (holy cow: NOTHING beats the oranges here!!), and then until 1pm, down by the beach, there's a little market where you can buy clothes, artwork, ice cones (yay!), etc. It's great!

The Lord and I hung out yesterday, and I remembered back when I was "growin up" and even recently, when I (and every other human being) dreamed about living by the ocean... being able to hear it everyday! AND I DO! Now granted, I by no means have a beach front apartment (who in their right mind can afford it?! haha) Anyways...I love it. And since it's the end of "winter" here, everything is green! At least for a few more weeks before it never rains again 'til next winter! It's crazy.... I finally took some pics, haha, but once again, I don't have a digi! But my roomie does, so maybe someday...:O)

I'm watching "the Making of the Ten Commandments", you know, the one that airs on ABC soon? It's crazy, everything: every article of clothing, every prop, every shoe, even the entire palace: has been hand made and made specifically for this movie! It's crazy!

well, I'll probably blog later this week ya'll. Have a great day with Jesus!

70th Post: PCH & Jesus

70th post kids.... whoa.... crazy!!

Well, I told you on Friday that I would probably post again: and here I am, I'm back. I just wanted to let you all know that today I went to Malibou w/ my roommate and got some ice cream.... and we looked for dolphins on the PCH (Pacific Coast Highway), but whenever I'm with her, she never sees them: so neither have I: yet. Anyways... and today it was warm enough for "tank tops" (exercise tanks, or "wife beaters"), so my roommate and I walked down the path by the beach.... people out surfing.... first time I've seen people ride the waves! So that was pretty sweet....

and I know that many of you know that I thought I had found "the church" that I was going to faithfully attend.... but, for certain reasons, I won't be going there. I've gone w/ my roommate now a few times to Reality Carpenteria (www.jesusisreality.com) , Reality, being the church, and Carpenteria, the city it's in. (neighbor to Santa Barbara, which is beautiful, by the way). The Pastor's there, they just, they really love Jesus. You can tell that they love to talk about Him, and it's just been amazing. They were on Part X of a series on Prayer, and it's been amazing. Last week it was Prayer & Fasting (yeah, GBC C&C group) and this week it was on Praying Scripture, which I had been really into doing last summer and fall, but got out of it. So it was sweet. Anyways, my roommate and I go to the Prayer time at 7:30, and then the service at 8:30..... and it's just so sweet. You truly walk out of there, pumped to live (like, for Christ, not to just go have fun). Honestly.... it's awesome. And things may change, but as of right now... how can I not keep going there? When for the first time since being here... I've found people that truly love Jesus? Not that church is all about what YOU get out of it, but that's for a later day.

Well, I'm exhausted. I've had a full day already--and it's only 4:30! And I have much to do...I was going to go to the beach and read down there, but I'm not going to want to walk back up the hill... so, I'm not going to. Anyways, miss ya'! Write me and let me know how things are going!

and Jonathan: how in the WORLD (no pun intended) do you have relatives in Buenos Aires? What the?!

Exhaustion.

So it's a Friday night, 6:38 pm, and I am exhausted out of my head. Well, not quite that bad, but yesterday definitely. TOUR O was back in town before they got on a plane for Hong Kong at 12:30 pm yesterday....so the night before, a few of us hung out: well, needless to say: I fell asleep on the chair at 12:30 a.m...and still didn't leave 'til like 1:20. I know! I KNOW! Even though I live on the SAME STREET as my friends.....I just very dislike walking home in the dark....anyways, so yeah, and so I came home, only to wake up at about 5:30 a.m...just a few hours later....crazy.

So imagine me doing my laundry, craving sleep...and just started to watch a movie, when, ha, Bev calls! But imagine more we didn't get off the phone for 2 1/2 hours!! Argh!! So I'm tired, BUT, it just made me think of you (pei'rs) more and how much I miss you, so it was worth it. And it was some pretty sweet fellowship: and I don't just mean catchin' up on everything: but praisin' Jesus while we were at it! Love you girl!! But if I didn't get off the phone 'til 10:30 pm....just think of Bev's 2:30 a.m....crazy!

Anyways.... had a good work day. Well, especially the end anyways. Had a really great conversation with a recruit of mine... just talkin' and laughin' and thinkin' of ways to get closer to the Lord: it was pretty sweet. And get this yo': she now lives in Miami, FL: but just moved from London, Ontario: I HAVE FRIENDS FROM THERE! Crazy!!

I miss singing.... and I don't even mean performance wise: I mean, like, singing for practice. And I can't get as loud or as strong as I want--'cause I live in such a small apartment!! :(

Sorry it's random...I may blog later this weekend.... I'm so excited for church!!

and oh, you all would love my hair now: it's red and blonde:)

Narnia.

Okay, so I blogged about this the other night: only for my roomate's laptop to lose the connection, so here I go again:

THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: Oh my word, how amazing!! My friends and I saw it Friday night...now each of them had seen it before, but I never had. And I never knew anything about it, going into the movie, except that C.S. Lewis had written the books, and that there was a parallel w/ Christian events and people. But let me tell you, I honestly got more out of watching that than I did the Passion. I know, I know, Narnia's characters are all animals...but I think that when I watch movies like the Passion, I always view them with a critical eye...like, "oh that never would have been allowed (women at the flogging scene) or more stuff still would've happen (like Jesus' bear being plucked out, etc.)....but with Narnia, I don't know. It was just so awesome. The scene that got me the most was when Aslan willingly lays his life down: and on his way up to the altar, all the beasts are mocking him, and kicking him, and whatever else they were all doing....and it just hit me: that we have no idea what Jesus was going thru on a spiritual level. Yes, the worst part was being separated from our Father on that tree, but can you imagine all the spiritual darkness that He felt? Do you not believe that possibly every demon that had ever been created, was there, mocking Him and laughing at Him? And the fact that He endured all that: for me? I know, I know, that He was there doing that, for the Father's will: but, He did that for ME. FOR ME I tell you!! How awesome is our God?!

And the other part that got me, was the famous line, "....He is not tame you know." "Yes, but He is good." That's my God! No one can tame Him, but He is good!


"Shauna, it is a mere child's book and movie...."

"True....but 'Suffer the little children to come unto Me'"

well, wow, thanks for all the comments guys on the previous post. I'll have to talk about AI more often.

So, I finally just watched, "The Sixth Sense" for the first time everyone. I know, I know...I'm 23 years old, and that movie came out quite some time ago: I was too chicken to watch it when it came out, and plus, it's about "dead people", and in real life--dead people/ghosts don't do that, so there's that. ANYWAYS...I had been talking about this not too long ago, and some friends were like, "do you know how it ends"? And I was like, "no", and they're like, "really? No one's ruined the end for you?" So, "no...guess not." So, anyways, it happened to be Saturday night's movie, so I watched it: and wow...what an ending. There's 5 minutes left in the movie, and I'm like, "What the crap?! There's no "ending...." so I was gettin' real frustrated: but let me tell you: wow. What an ending. My jaw literally dropped. craziness. I loved it. And I love Bruce Willis (I know, I'm a girl, and I love Bruce Willis) and I love that kid actor. He's amazing. My roommate doesn't think he can act, but I'm the one that's right!!:) (I love my roommate!)

Anyways, oh, AI last night: Catherine all the way. and Mandeeza. Top 2 girls right there. Paris: 3rd. The blonde chick...the last one that sang: she's gotta' go. Although that was her BEST vocal performance yet, she looked horrible. Gentlemen: Chris didn't actually do incredibly "wowish" last night, but he's always amazing. Ace didn't either...and i didn't care for his little "falsetto" at the end....I thought it kind of ruined it actually. Taylor Hicks: he's amazing, and I will buy his cd, HOWEVER, it was the song that ruined last night for him. I'm thinkin' he'll be in the bottom 3 tonight. Bucky: he's just horrible. Well, he shouldn't have made it this far anyways..and little kevin's gotta' go too. Although he's worked A LOT on controlling his vibrato. And I love the song that he performed....(I just don't like it when he performs Josh Groban, which he's done 2x's time now, b/c, well, he's not Josh Groban:) )

well, that's my update. I'm going to bed early, so I'm not watching AI tonight, so I'll find out tomorrow. Or if any Canadian peep wants to call me and let me know, that'll work too. Anyways...had a bit of a rough day, so I had some time with Jesus...and am chillaxin' and will soon make supper and watch P&P...

peace
out

American Idol....

Okay, so I borrowed my friend's "American Idol, Season I"...and I thought it was going to be an episode-by-episode thing....but it wasn't. Anyways.....( I didn't know American Idol existed 'til like, the end of Season II) Kelly Clarkson...Now...I think she has an amazing voice...but OH, MY word.....she almost made me cry (I know, I know...I "almost do that" a lot)...because she's THAT GOOD...I mean AMAZING....like, her song "Without You" that she competed with, like, holy cow, she, to me, is one of the best singers: like up there with Dion and Houston....seriously... she's that good. I was just completely blown away....it makes me want to buy her cd's even more now.

And, Oh yeah, Justin Guirreno's (or whatever his last name is) "Let's Stay Together" (amazing oldie)....is amazing too. But the best singer did win that season.

Well, that's my spiel. On American Idol. My predictions for this season? For a guy: Chris. (I think that's his name, we call him "Dan", 'cause Chris looks just like our friend Dan, so none of us know his name) Yeah, the guy with the amazingly, sweet looking sideburns. He's amazing. Let's see....but Taylor Hicks....he's my personal favorite. His album will be the first album that I buy though. He's amazing...but I don't think he'll go all the way.... Let's see, Girls. I don't know their names....but, the girl that's really good...GOSH: she's taller, dark....and she's just really cute, like, one time she was like, "I don't want all them looking at my butt". Oh well, guys, I can't remember her name...but she's really good...smooth voice....but Mandeeza may just go all the way too. She's been on a cd before, did you know that?

well, that's finally it. Hope you all are having, or did have, a great weekend. I'm going to spend some time with Jesus and the Patriarchs...write me!!

The Sutherlands

I know, I know, you're thinking, "The Sutherlands?" Well, here's why I'm going to write about them.

So, I usually do nothing besides emailing and blogs on the net, but hadn't seen last weeks "24", so I did some googling. And when I did, I came across Kiefer (obviously:). So, I'm reading his profile.....cool (and the rumor's not true: HE'S NOT GAY!!)...noticed that he lived in Canada for a little while....so then I click on his father's name, "donald", and, well, low and behold, look at what I found, "Born in St. John, NB, Canada"!! Like, what the?! How cool!! Gosh, I've been there numerous times! It's only 1 1/2 hrs from my house in Maine! Anyways, then, "he grew up and graduated H.S. in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia, Canada."!! HELLO??!! I've been there! My choir tour went there!! Come on people...isn't this cool? (and, by the way, you can check out Donald in a couple favorite movies of mine in, "A Time To Kill", and "Pride and Prejudice") PLUS: Erin's grandmother, use to babysit Donald!! Like, HELLO!!?? Ever cool!! Anyways...

I just wanted to share my joy....

Ya' know, they say that thru every 7 people....there's someone famous--and it only took 3 for me! Anyone else have any crazy stories?

A Simple...Life Changing Day in the Life of Shauna...

Okay, so, it's funny how no one comments on my sad posts!!

Aiight, aiight...here we go. Tonight, well, tonight was life changing. I now only have 4 weeks left in my Bible study that I go to in which we study, "the Patriarchs" (a Beth Moore study)...and it was here, back in January, that it hit me just what I've done...(ya' know...moving 3000 miles...that sort of stuff). But it was here tonight, that the Lord showed me why: HE WANTS TO BLESS ME! Tonight we were studying Jacob (Israel) wrestling God...and boy oh boy, it was a doosie! Here we go, here's the quote: "IN EVERY STRUGGLE DO NOT LET GO UNTIL THE BLESSING COMES." There we go: that's it. In a matter of 2 mili seconds, the last two weeks flashed before my eyes...my longing to see my friends...my longing for ...just something. And yeah: The Lord was just like, "Shauna, DON'T LET GO! I'm still wrestling--and not letting you go!" Isn't that amazing? God could've ended that "lil" wrestling match in no time...but He wanted to bless Jacob! (By changing his name! Praise the Lord! Who would want "Deceiver" to be their name?)

And hey, some food for thought: (as I go to bed, 'cause I'm exhausted now:0)





"Few things define us MORE than our struggles." --What do your struggles say about you?

Okay, so, THE REAL ME.

Okay, ya'll. Ya'll think that I'm like, this really strong person, but here we go.

This last week has been really, really hard. Not nec. spiritually, like in the past since I've been here. But like, a hard time being away from those that I love. Honestly, I know, can you believe it? The girl that never gets home sick, the girl that never calls home (I still don't...it's not home that I miss so much),...this girl, this little girl, so misses the true FELLOWSHIP with some of her friends that she's cried twice this last week. Like, listening to Andy's cd, and I'm just like, sitting there, with tears streaming down my face, because, I don't know what I'd do if I can't see them again. Honestly...I don't know what I would do.

I just feel like, the best moments of my life are over...honestly. (and my word---I'm only 23) I don't know how to explain it. Like, there's a hole, where my friends used to be. That's what it feels like. Like I don't know if I'll ever other friends that I can share my heart with, and pour my heart out to them...will I ever have a truly "great time"? My friend Marco at work is like ('cause I had a really, really hard day at work), "Go out and do something this week. Have fun." and I was like, "Marco...I don't know if I've truly had a time that I've come back to my apartment and been like, 'man, now that was fun'": 'cause honestly, I don't think that I have. Just when my friend's Jonathan and Nate (from NH) were here...crazy, I know.

So, that's me. I don't know how to explain it guys...sorry...but that's me.

QUICK RANDOMNESS.

hey ya'll...

so...we're having this competition at my work, and guess who won today? Just guess who won at $10 card for STARBUCKS?! That's right peeps, me--!!!!!!!!!! weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!! So excited!! Anyways...I made 69 phone calls today ya'll...just so ya' know. That ties me w/ my previous rec. from Monday...I do believe...

So not a whole lot new. I'm still really sore from running on sunday...I think I'm literally, damaging my body from running...my joints kill everytime I start walking from sitting down. This isn't good--I'm only 23!!!!!!!!

Yesterday was a hard day: my body, my heart: like, literally ached from missing people so bad. It was one of THE hardest days...but the Lord has called me....I must trust my life, my feelings, in my Master's hands. wow....such comfort...yet...still so lonely.

well, ya'll. Peace, out. sorry so random and short...but that's how you know me! (cept the short thing...I'm tall actually:0)

God...Oscars...Headaches...and not in that Order.

Hey ya'll: So: the Oscars. You wanna know the weirdest thing about it all? The fact that it started at 5:30 pm for me. LIke, what? Or at 5 pm...whatever time. Anyways...I'm so used to not even seeing the end because it's so late...and stuff. Anyways, aiight. So, BROKEBACK only won 3, right? Pretty sweet! I was pretty excited. I actually was really excited, pretty much, at all the winners....even though I haven't seen one movie. Almost saw "Memoirs of a Geisha", but couldn't. And of course I refuse to see "Brokeback"...and now that I'm starting to really enjoy Reese Witherspoon...I'm thinking I want to see that movie too. What else. "capote", don't know much about him....but the movie intrigues me. And I'm happy that the Seymore guy got best actor...'cause, well, he's been around for a while, and it was his 1st nomination. And what was up with that "pimp" song, anyways? That was a bit much.


Alright...so, yeah. I, SHAUNA MARIE STEVENS, AM IN NEED OF.....glasses. That's right. I said it. I will probably very soon, become a 4-eyed geek. Alright, ya'll...just kidding. But no, really. I think I do. I get really bad headaches and can barely keep my eyes open at work at the end of the day...and sometimes feel neaseaus...bla, bla, bla. That's right. It's totally ridiculous. Totally....


Ran today. Boy, don't I hate exercising.....have I ever mentioned this before?


And I, had a lazy week. So, I'm doing this Bible study, a Beth Moore study...totally amazing, anyways, it's on the Patriarchs......and we have 5 homework assignments...(like a m-f thing), and this week: I honestly, just totally, totally forgot. Isn't that weird? So I will be so dumb tomorrow night during small groups. No joke: I just totally forgot. It was real weird.

And right now, I'm watching "City of Angels". You're right...I totally disagree with the "non-theology" of it all: but, well, angels are pretty cool. If there is one or two or whatever amount, in my apartment right now, they're probably like, "Shauna...you're such a bum. Go to bed. You're exhuasted...and you have to be ready by 7 am. What are you thinking....and get up and read your Bible tomorrow. You and Jesus need some time together"....So yeah, that's what I'm thinking.

Made some brownies. My chocolate craving was so bad that I made brownies at 8:30 pm. It was fabulous. The best part? licking the spoons and bowl!

So, my friends Jon and Nate were out to see me yesterday!! That's right!! A couple of my peeps from New Hampshire were out to a John MacArthur conference, and they had rented a car, so they came the 65 minutes to see me...and we went downtown....went to the beach, then got in the convertible (that's right ya'll: my 2nd EVER convertible experience!! The first? well, that was actually just a few weeks ago...my friend Jimmy's mom's...) and headed to Santa Barbara. Wow: now that's a beautiful place...let me tell you.

Anyways, I need to go now. Peace, out ya'll. Comment!!

HEAVENLY GLIMPSES...

I believe that every day, the Lord allows us to "glimpse eternity"...and heaven, don't you? Today I went for a run: which, ordinarily, I hate (still sort of did actually), but, well, while I was running...I ran by some bushes, and the smell was just amazing, and refreshing--my reaction was smiling (what geek smiles while running?)....and then, I went to the beach. And I got to put my hands and feet in the Pacific Ocean...not the freezing cold Atlantic Ocean, but in the somewhat cold Pacific Ocean....and I got to feel the sand...and, well, I did a cartwheel: like, what? What 23 old does a cart wheel on the beach. Now granted...there were only three people that probably saw me, but still. And you want to know why I did it? Because I could. In the month of February, I, Shauna Marie Stevens, got to do a cartwheel, at the beach, in the town where I live--like, what the? The smells were amazing...the waves were beautiful....I think my favorite part being, when the waves are really loud, but then all of a sudden, it's so silent, that it even silents your mind, and heart. Oh my word--God is so good!!

In the paraphrase, The Message, in Eph. 5, when Paul is talking about Christ and the churchthe author puts it this way, "He evokes her beauty." So even though creation is as beautiful as it is....imagine, us! Forget that I'm a girl, so obviously some of my deepest longings deal with beauty, but, imagine that GOD evokes our beauty!! He is the one that brings it out in us!! No matter who we are, how dirty we are, how filthy we feel, how "whatever": it has nothing to do with us, but everything to do with Him. That's what He whispers in those still, soft moments. HE IS BEAUTY.



...May our Lord allow you to to glimpse eternity today....

FRESH LAUNDRY.

FRESH LAUNDRY: It has got to be one of the TOP 10 best little enjoyments of life, wouldn't you say? Like, even though it now (again) costs me money to do my laundry, and it means walking in the cold (yes, it's cold here in SoCal), and pressing stop to whatever cd I'm listening to or whatever dvd/vhs I'm watching: CLEAN, FRESH, [DOWNY] laundry is one of the most pure, enjoyable "things". It truly is. Like the fact I get to climb into a bed that A.) has flannel sheets (yes, we here in SoCal, most of us use flannel sheets), B.) has a fake goose down feather comforter, and last, but most importantly, C.) smells delightfully like Downy Honeysuckle. OH, MY WORD, life just does NOT get any better than that. Hmm...I wonder what heaven will smell like. That's a new one for me....I've never thought of that.

Thought of something today: Jesus never gave up. I don't know, I've heard it before, but, HE really didn't. Like, not saying I want to quit, but when emailing with a friend about the WORK of ministry, and the "business" that it can become, praise the Lord that He did not give up on us. Even when He had to get on a boat to get away from the crowd: He never gave up. Even though He prayed to our Father, "If You can, take this cup from me" three times, He never gave up. Instead, He saw "the joy that was set before Him". That joy being two things (I think...there could be more, this is just what I have thought of) 1.)He was accomplishing/fulfilling our Father's will. Wow...what a joy...and 2.)He did it for US to be WITH HIM for all of eternity. Wow...

hey, one final comment: How cool is it that we get to say "OUR Father": meaning, our Father, and Jesus' Father. That's pretty sweet. Just meditate on that.

peace, out homies.






ps...can anyone tell that I journaled today?

I LOVE MY FRIENDS....

I really do....I really love my friends. So when I was a kid....let's just say, fellow school kids weren't that nice to me. (they never came to my birthday parties...they sent clipboards around middle school saying "if you hate Shauna Stevens, sign your name here...", you know, that kind of stuff.) But now my problem is: who do I go to first when I have a problem? or something happy to share? (Though I may not have really too many of those peeps here, but by phone...:0)....

anyways, so I talked with my friend Marcy today...she was a year behind me in Bible School, and we ended up being good friends...A.) 'cause we were in trio together, and B.) she married probably one of my best friends from the BI....but both of my friendships w/ them were on the rocks, at least more than once. Gosh, I hate sin. PRIDE. It kills....not that they were the only ones at fault, there was definitely my H-U-G-E side of things....ANYWAYS....they just got married back in October, while on tour...and that was really hard for me...A.) 'cause their GREAT friends of mine and B.) they would've asked me to sing at their wedding, but they knew I was going to be away....

I SAY ALL THAT TO SAY THIS....I love my friends...and how despite myself, and my sin, and everything in between....they still love me. God is so good. The two of them (and more) have definitely fulfilled scripture by "spuring me on with encouragement and good works": they all kick my butt.

Lazy Christian. That's what I am. But hey: I'm going to church at 7 am tomorrow, not bad, eh? It's actually not even the church that I am seriously going to get involved in, it's my roommate's church...and she goes to Prayer Meeting at 7:30 a.m.....and I really believe that, well, I need to get praying again.

oh my word people...my discipline is SOOOOOOOOO gone in my life. Spiritually, and even physically. (this whole "no exercise thing" is just killin' me.) I just find it so hard to want to sit down and ENJOY my time with Jesus. I so am just so dumb. So dumb...but it's getting better.

well, this is long: PEI peeps....since your the ones that do most of the reading: I miss you all. E.BREDIN--why don't you just come visit me out here--so you're "almost there". and C&C: miss you guys bad. Looked at Baker's site, and watched the video.

and my other dear ones--love you too. Just....start leaving comments....

RANDOMNESS.....again....

I guess that I am just the queen of randomness, that's all.

So today was Valentines Day. I won't life--I'm lonely. I'd absolutely love to walk into work tomorrow (or somewhere) and just instantly fall in love with the man that the Lord feels is "my best match": the man that I was meant to complete. (although, I don't believe in the "there's-only-one-" thing) Anyways...so what did I do? I watched AMERICAN IDOL (AI). Fun times. This whole "ratings" thing is tickin me off...

so whoa: my dad turned 55 today. He can now get Senior Citizen's discount.

I love the beach. But I miss my closest friend Bethany, and her son Josiah (and her husband, and new little Mercy, but I haven't met her yet.) hey...got's to go. love ya'll.

peace, out

hey ya'll. I don't really know what to write about, but whatev. This is what a blog is for, right?

so, randomness, once again: Life is good. Life is hard....being passionate in my times with Jesus is real hard right now, but, it's nothing that just opening up His word and journaling won't conquer.

SO: I TOTALLY DO NOT LIKE JARS OF CLAY, so ya'll know. I can not, in any way, support them. They do not share the gospel at their concerts (at least the ones that MY friends have gone to) and my dearest friend Bethany told me today, that when asked to define their music, their response is, "ROCK--with Conscience". WHAT IS THAT? THAT IS TOTALLY TAKING GOD OUT OF THEIR MINISTRY--AND JUST MAKING IT ENTERTAINMENT. I can not, in any way, shape or form, condone that. I am highly disappointed. And they were giving a free concert at a nearby church tonight too...knowing my luck, their probably leading worship there tomorrow, and that's where I'm going...

so, it's the LORD'S DAY tomorrow, are ya'll excited? (even though it's like 4am already, for my pei'rs). I am!!

My first pen. Well, I should probably explain: a PEN, is, when a recruit confirms on a tour. And I just got my first one--from the very beginning of the application process! (you can get pens that are old recruits, and they don't have to do the whole process)!! Anyways, so I am excited....and esp. since I get a little extra $ next pay check:0)

recommended reading: CAPTIVATING, by John and Staci Eldridge. FOR MEN & WOMEN. It's totally amazing. Totally stinkin' amazing. so good.

So, "REALITY CHECK", is the theme for 2006's Continental Program. TOTALLY STINKIN' AMAZING. If there is a Continental concert ANYWHERE near you, YOU MUST GO. The choreo is amazing....and the songs too!! Someday, they'll have the music up on our Continental's site, but for now, just take my word:0)

love you all.

JONNY B. ARRIVED

well, Jonny B. at least made it as far as Ventura, CA. He didn't show up to my place 'til about 7 pm something--but I was fine with that!! Just wanted ya'll to know that he's still alive, at least this far in the game:0)

peace, out.

OH HEY--I GOT TO ACCEPT MY FIRST RECRUIT YESTERDAY! YEA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

HEY KIDS!!

HEY KIDS--WHASSUP?! Wow....I am sooooooooooooooooo tired today. I can not express how tired I am. It's ridiculous, but all good.

So, the last few days have been cool. The first rehearsal camp is up and going, and I've had the chance to help lead music, which has been pretty sweet. Sang a special last wednesday, and then this past Sunday, sang with one of the guys here, Cameron, who has an AMAZING voice, that was really fun for me. Then tomorrow is my last time leading music in the morning...how sad:0) But it's all good.

so, I think that I need glasses. Have I mentioned that before? Esp. now with this whole computer job thing:(

Still haven't cashed my first check yet. Ridiculous, eh? They won't let me open up a checking account here, which is soooooooooooo dumb. So then the place that I have to cash my check at will charge me $5!! like what?!

So how cold is it in PEI these days, eh? Sounds warm, from what ya'll been talkin' bout. I have a picture of me on top of a snowbank (while I lived at Bev's) hanging on my cubicle wall. Everyone here can't believe that I lived in that stuff!! (and almost neither can I!)

Hey, ya'll. kind of lonely, too. Just so you know. But I joined a women's bible study last night, and it's a study in the OT!! by Beth Moore! Ever excited me!

got's to go. EB--love ya'. Update me on your new adventures! I'm sooo proud of you!
JB: I'll be sad if you can't come visit me. But I understand!

peace, out, hommies.

hey ya'll. I know, I know...it's been a while. My bad. But I don't have a pc at home anymore, 'cause I've moved INTO MY APARTMENT! And have already gotten my 1st paycheck. Scarey:) I'm terrified of life. I've come to that conclusion. anyways...that's been me. I work8 hours at my desk on the computer and phone...so I'm not usually in the mood to be on a pc or phone. So I'm sorry, but don't expect too many phone calls, my dearest Canadians.

well, 24 began. I saw the first two, but then was unable to see monday nights, so I'm really sad, to the point of anger!! But, I think my friend Matt may just have recorded it, so we'll see.

erin, I'm sooooooooo proud of you for goin' out there! YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW EXCITED I AM FOR THIS JOURNEY YOU'RE ON! ENJOY EVERY MINUTE OF IT!!

peace, out guys. sorry...

One Week Tomorrow.

Wow...isn't my life just crazy.

So I will have been here in SoCal one week tomorrow. Totally crazy. Totally. I can't believe it. I still have to learn to work the phones and the computer, but other than that...its all just making those pohone calls, tryin' to get recruits. But I'm excited:0)

So today is "the Lord's Day". Joshua Harris says in right when he says, in his book, "Stop Dating the Church", that our entire week should be based upon the Lord's day, not Monday, or Friday, but His day. I could go on, but it's hard for me to put it into words....and I don't really remember how to put it....anyways.

So, Erin, you had asked me something. I don't remember what it was either. Oh my life. Well, starting tomorrow, I stare at a computer, learning 'bout all the ex-cons (ex-continentals) and applicants...and am on the phone all day, trying to get people to tour!! From 9 am to 6 pm. The beach? Well, when I move into my apartment, I will live 7 min. walking, from the beach. So, I'll get to run in the mornings and stuff. I'm excited!! love life? Um, don't have one:0) As my oversized post card says, "Boys are Stupid: throw sticks at them"!! And, I will put that up at work tomorrow...:0)

got's to go. love you all.

ARRIVAL: 3:00 pm western time.

Can you believe it? I'm here...in California. Absolutely ludicrous. Here I am, relaxing after my first day of work. WITHOUT BRINGING WORK HOME. Now, not to say that I never will, but not really. There's not a lot I can do w/o being at the office during those particular hours. (phone calls...all day long:0)

Many flying adventures yesterday. Every flight was delayed....so I was constantly running to my gates...great fun. But the Lord was good: sent me Jerry on my 5 hour flight...good guy from Phoenix. Laughed and talked the whole time. My shuttle ride to Dean's house: totally almost (like what is almost?) gave the gospel to the shuttle driver. It was amazing,....I don't even know his name. but I know that our shuttle ride was encouraging to him. Everyone was always talking! he said it never happens!! And esp. not posititve convo's! it was awesome!! pray that this man (all of them actually) gets saved!!

well, I'm tired. And should probably start heading to bed soon. Love you all...

DID I EVER MENTION...

Did I ever mention how I really DON'T LIKE flying, SOMETIMES?

Here I am....2 feet from the airport. To wake up in 9 hours (4 am...1 am. CALI time)...to get on a plane in 12 hours. Whatever. This is ridiculous.

thanks for all the comments guys. Sorry I didn't write sooner, and haven't been writing emails. In Calais, I can only check my email at the town library...

very soon it'll be..... shauna@continentalsingers......very interesting:0)

love,
shauna marie

packing....sneezing...packing...

....that has been my life the last few days....packing...sneezing....sneezing...rereading old journals (lol, oh, MY WORD)...packing...craziness.

aiight. Anyone ever takin' a shuttle before? So, like, I'm moving my life out to SoCal, only for me to be the most terrified of TAKING A SHUTTLE FROM THE AIRPORT TO DEAN'S HOUSE....OH MY WORD! Yeah, um, that's it. Like, what if I get stranded at LAX? Plus, I do not have a cell phone...etc. etc. I know, I KNOW...the Lord keeps reminding me that HE is in charge. And that's He's in charge of the weather. I keep getting terrified that like, there's gonna be a major storm in ME or PA...and I'll get stranded!! BUT IT'S ALL IN HIS CONTROL!

anyways...my dad is waiting in the car....and it's winter...and I'm at the library. Did you all know that? anyways, peace, out kids. thanks for the comments!

OH, MY WORD!!

SO, IT DEFINITELY TOOK OVER AN HOUR TO FIGURE OUT HOW TO PUT THAT STINKIN' LIL' PIC OF ME IN THAT STINKIN' LIL CORNER YO'!

There, I got it out. For those of you that wanted to see the pics of my new "do", there you go. For you girls...I can style my hair quite a few different ways: my friend Alison did this one. For those of you that were scared, "See: it's not that bad!"

well...I go "home home" tomorrow. So that'll be weird, but it's good. Get to go see my friend Matt (alison's bro) play ball tonight...I'm so excited!! It's been so long since I've been to a game!! Ever excited me!

what? How am I supposed to sit? Like a Continental? 

hark--a bird!! 

yo....it's cold...take the pic, Ali!! 

A PREVIOUS SUBJECT.

Now, I know that I've brought this up before, but I just wanted to see all of your guys' view on this: Christians that swear.

Now, here's my thing: You can stand there and tell me that words are just words (yet Jehovah says to not take His name in vain), and that it's just a cultural thing. But is it really? What is in our hearts flows out thru our lips. And that, my friend, is scripture also. Even in the secular world, swearing is considered ill-mannered in respectable situations...so why is that Christians sometimes swear--or even make it a lifestyle?

Now, when I was younger, I used to have a problem with swearing. But I always knew that it was wrong, and it truly was always coming from the pit of me. IT WAS IN MY HEART!! Anger, bitterness.....I'm humble enough to admit that...Now, Philippians 4:8 tells us to THINK and MEDITATE on that which is pure, lovely, admirable, HONORABLE, etc...is swearing that? The answer is clearly NO!!

And, which reminds me, why are we as Christians so afraid of that verse? I remember not liking that verse, even just a few years ago, because I thought it meant that I would be bored every day of my life. But is that not how our Enemy works? Thinking that the Christian life is boring? Like, many believe that heaven is just going to be us on clouds, playing the harp--but O! How it WON'T be so!! Heaven will be a party! A feast! Each of us having new names....the Word tells us that heaven is BEYOND our comprehension!! Oh my word, I'm rambling...

well, that's that. And hey: i'm 99% sure that I'll have an apartment a few weeks after I'm there!! (I just have to save money for me to move in!)

hey: comment, eh?

the Talent Department

Well, it's really, REALLY officical now folks: I will be a Talent Recruiter (Or Talent Representative) with the Continentals, in Ventura, California, beginning January 3rd! I may already even have an apartment! (w/ a bed--yea!!!!!!!)

I'm sooooooooooooooooooooo incredible excited about this.

Sorry I can't write more...but I've had an exhausting afternoon: talking with Jesus about this...all the phone calls w/ the office today....I can't wait to sleep! I love it!

LIKE THE NEW LOOK?

Like the new look? I do!! I discovered it today!!

Have a great book for ya'll to read: "Seizing Your Divine Moment", by Erwin Raphael McManus. It's an awesome book. He uses Scripture to show us how the Lord's will for us is not for us to just sit around and wait for His voice necessarily, and to wait for Him to make choices for us!! We are the choice makers!! It's amazing!!

(Hey Erin, did you notice I added you to my links? love ya' girlfriend! And am praying for you!)

Ahh...so I got to talk with my friend Omar on the phone yesterday....it was GREAT! And then my friend Josh called...and then today I talked with my girl Alison!! I've never talked to so many people on the phone in that short of time! Craziness!! Such a girl I am...

Missing tour a little. Not the exhaustion: not the sandwiches, and not even the performing: just missin' some of my peeps. "Abba, thank You sooooo much for being so amazing and bringing such people into my life. May I be as humble and as much of an encouragement to them as they are to me. Amen."

Did I ever mention how much I love prayer? Talking with the Only, Almight Jehovah, and Jesus...and Holy Spirit (all at once!) is just incredible!!

IT'S OFFICIAL.

IT'S OFFICIAL:

On January 2nd (or thereabout), I will be flying to California on a one-way ticket...following the Lord's path with an office job w/the Continentals. I was interviewed at about 2 am your time...and accepted the job. I am unsure as to which job I will have, but I will know by next Tuesday, at the latest, I believe.

Tour was amazing. Fiji made my trip. I know I already said that: but it did. It just sort of "brought everything to light" for me.

Though there was a period of time filled with spiritual attacks and depression, the Lord was with me and saw me through. Though there were times of pride and selfishness, the Lord rebuked and saw me through. Through the times of sweet, pure laughter and innocence, the Lord was with me and smiled with me. Though I am scared beyond belief of my life for the next two years: the Lord is with me and will see me through. I am convinced that He has even more in store for me by following His leading to Cali. I am excited. Wow. This is my life....a little girl who used to get homesick just 20 min. away from home, to LW in Maine, to New Hampshire, New York, Bible School, PEI, Canada, to 22 states, New Zealand and Fiji, to Cali....but more than this. The Lord has allowed me to "glimpse eternity"

...May He show me more. "I love you Lord, and pray to always be amazed when speaking of You, and talking with You."

ALMOST OVER....

WELL, it's hard to believe that it's over in about 48 hours. We'll leave for the airport at about 3 or 4 in the morning.....yeah, that's what I was thinking. But actually, the last night, we don't go to bed. You stay up all night to enjoy the last few hours with each other, so that's really exciting.

so, sorry to disappoint you jonny, but not too many exciting stories. We did a lot of driving, and performing...but we did see quite a bit of "RINGS" stuff, so that was cool....which reminds me:0)

FIJI....now that was amazing. For the first time in my life, I told the Lord that I would be a full time missionary if He wanted me to be. Awesome, eh? I don't know if that's where the Lord is taking me, but we'll see.

So, I still haven't been interviewed with the Continentals yet:), but I should be soon. This is what I really want to do guys...even though it may take me far away. Please pray that the Lord's will will be done though!!

7 DAYS!!

7 DAYS 'TIL I LEAVE FOR NEW ZEALAND!!

Please pray for safety--and sleep!! We actually lose a total day, 'cause we cross the INTERNATIONAL DATE LINE...but then we gain one on the way back...real weird.

in Alburquerque, New Mexico right now!! Enjoy life!!

ERIN B.

Erin B.: trust me darlin': I'll be visiting. I don't have money, nor do I have transportation: but I've been goin' thru MAD withdrawals. And since you NEVER email me, I have to ask you 2 questions on this: A. Where in the world is Paul? The kid has not emailed me since June. No joke. and B. Where's Jordan? It's been even longer...and he won't respond to any emails that I send him. I miss him a lot. Gosh.
But you almost made me cry when you mentioned Els. Please tell her that I love her and miss her and Bob. And Carolyn and Kevin too. Hey: so Shira was supposed to come see me, but ended up not being able to. That was really sad. I love you Erin B.: FOREVA!

Digital Cameras.

I know, I know: Digital cameras are the best. TOO BAD SHAUNA DOESN'T HAVE ONE!! So, mark it down: Shauna wishes she had a digi. Gosh people. BUT, I don't have a computer or anything to print pics off or any of that.

So, I'm in Missouri right now. Tomorrow: Kansas. Wow: insane. i think I have 4 rolls of film already...did I tell you that my camera got caught in the atlantic ocean? well, a few waves came over it....I don't know if those pics will come out...which will make me really, really sad. BUT....did I mention I go to New Zealand in 14 days? We're going to the Shire...and hangin' with the Somoans....AND : we get to ride in a ZORB. Basically, just think those balls that hamsters chill in: and that's what I'll be doin': for $29. Ridiculous price: but hey, it's once in a lifetime.

hey ya'll...pray that we get to have a video of our performance. I don't think we do: but I really want one. Then you guys can see me!!

love you all. Thanks for the prayers. They mean everything to me.

"God is most glorified in us, when we are most satisfied in Him." -John Piper

Salisbury, Maryland

Well, here I am in Maryland, today and tomorrow. Oh, all my PEI peeps: I miss you all so much. I just want you all to know that.

I just realized today that I have no idea what I'm doing when I go home in a month and a half: hey Erin--can I come live with you? Just kidding...

oh dear: New Zealand will be seeing me on November 16th. Oh dear. Pray for me:0) I'm excited!! Please pray as I still need $148.31 cents in before I leave!!

love you all.

wish I had a digi!

NORTH CAROLINA

ahh...North Carolina....home of the infamous TAR HEELS and.....WAKE FOREST.....and all that awesomeness.

soo....my Canadian friends: how happy are we that there's hockey??!!

yes...so....life. Continentals: quite the experience. I have not decided if I will tour again: my instinct is to say yes: because it's such an amazing experience....the places....the people....seeing God work. But I've found that it makes me very self-concious: something that I don't really need anymore of....but at the same time....oh, I just don't know. I think the Lord just wants me to focus on today (tonight actually).

ERIN: I'm sorry that I don't blog more: WHY DON"T YOU EMAIL MORE!!?? Life is tiring at night: adrenaline for 3 hours every night, to come home to hosts home and be asked tons of questions...to then email--and then blog? it's tough: but update me on you!! I miss you!! And everyone!! Gosh--I want to be there so badly!! I'm gonna' go read yours right now!!!

love you all!!

EAST COAST....HERE I AM....

Hey there ya'll!!

Sittin' here, chillaxin in good ole' Jacksonville, Florida. I have finally made it to the east coast!! Unbelievable!!

So I got to see some friends tonight!! My friend Amy lives in JAX....and gosh--it was so good to see you!! Love you girl!! and my friend Jill--she's here in JAX goin' to school!!

I don't really know what to say. I would have to say: the Lord is teaching me patience. I'm actually a pretty patient person when it comes to A LOT of things...but this whole "being-surrounded-24/7-with-the-same-person" thing is getting kind of old. But it's enjoyable.

well, I wasn't going to write this: but....I really have no idea if the Lord will bring me back to do continentals again: but if so...I would like to do NEXT FALL: they have a tour that goes to Great Britain....and stuff....and that's been on my heart. So, I don't know...but, if ya'll could just pray.....

xoxoxoxo
me

Martindale, TX

So one thing that the Lord has shown me today, is that, well, I'm not much of a touchy person anymore, which is really funny, 'cause I used to be, just a few years ago. And still am...but not really. Maybe it's because it's been over 100 degrees the last few days: and we have to wear pants/capri's and toe covered shoes at ALL times, but whatev.

yeah, wow...the last couple of days performances have been a couple of my best: PERFECT? HECK NO....but the confidence is totally starting to come along.

I still sort of can't believe that I'm doing this. It's awesome to see where the Lord has brought me thru the years. We were driving thru San Antonio today, and I was like, "OH my word--I ate at that VERY Taco Cabana a few years ago---and oh my word--I went to the top of that tower thing". Wow...God is so cool: He so knows what He is doing, and He truly does have the best in mind. What scares me is when I remember that all things work together for HIS GLORY, maybe not necessarily for me and my glory. But you know what? I'm starting to understand that whatever brings Him glory: is what is best for me: whether it is painful or joyful. My word: He is Jehovah-Jireh, Elohim, Alpha and Omega: HE IS AMAZING.

love you all.

EVER SORRY ME.

alright....ever sorry me.....

So we had our 6th day of touring today. Unbelievable. I'm in sunny, HOT, Arizona right now. I LOVE air condition, let me tell you.

so yes, I'm on tour. Hopefully I can update this more often, but honestly, it's hard to stay in touch: OH SO HARD. But it's going amazing. I'm not perfect, and please pray for that actually, as it's hard for me: seeing how I'm a perfectionist. Anyways....we'll be going to Katrina hit places in a few weeks, to perform and to lend a helping hand, so I'm thrilled to do that. And then we'll be in New Zealand and Figi in November (happy thanksgiving to ME!)....

anyways, love you all. Stay in touch.

peace, out.

I LIED....

Alright...so I lied!! So I rechecked my calendar--only for me to realize I had counted wrong!! So as of today (I'm pretty sure anyways, ) NOW I have 17 days left until tour!! And this is an update:

I received a $725 check from my counselors/staff here at camp: totally amazing. SO that's going to pay for my Rehearsal camp fee/ needed things for tour. Then, I got more money today in my check than I thought I would: So, that will be paying my parents back for my plane tickets/ MY INSURANCE!! And my insurance was the last MAJOR thing that I needed money for, besides my support money. (And I know that there is money on the way: from God, thru friends, and those who do not know!) Anyways, isn't God so good? Why do I ever doubt? My gosh--heaven will be amazing!! No more doubting!! I'm so excited!!

And camp is now done with: Campers left last night....staff weekend as of right now.....so I'm so excited to go run, (or nap, or both), take a long shower--and go roller-blading and bowling!! Ever pumped me.

It is official: I have the worst cold that I've ever had during the summer. But I refuse to let it ruin me!!

love you all, praying for you all. That's what I need to do: I need go make some time for Jesus!! I love Him!

Congratulations to the new Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Little!! (Love you Celeste! Sorry I couldn't be there!!)

Ya' think....

So, ya' think that with only 16 DAYS LEFT 'TIL I LEAVE FOR LOS ANGELES, that I'd be all extatic, and, well, I am, for the most part. 'Cept the fact that I have at least $3000 left that I need. Wait, hold on...

so, my summer is still going amazingly well....it has NOT been the easiest summer of my life, but it has been an incredible summer, all the same. Full of trials and testings, and wilderness times, and blessings that have overfilled my store house (malachai 3)....but I keep struggling with this same issue....

.....of $$.....I'm not particulary fond of this issue that the Lord deals with me on...and He's provided every other time of my life...but I guess that when I looked on the calendar today, and counted down, and remembered that according to them, you need to have your money in 2 weeks before you go...and well, 16-14=2...anyways....that's me. I've been in tears all day, because of my lack of faith in God. What is my problem?

love you all, praying for you all, too. Have a good day!

MY SUMMER SO FAR

So, yeah, definitely the key word for the summer is A-MAZING. God has totally "blown my socks off" these last few weeks: positively amazing....amazing. Not to say that I haven't had some low times, but God is good: no matter.

I have never worked with such an awesome counselling staff in my life. Totally rocks. Usually you have the 2-3 that have a passion for Christ--and it's totally the opposite here!! It's amazing!! (wow, I forgot how much I love typing!! random, I know:0) I miss Camp Hope, and all my "guests and campers", but I love my position here.

I'm one of 2 head female counselors/Asst. Program Directors. I'm not to into a lot of the "programming" stuff, but I love trying to be an encouragement to the counselors. It's a blast!! Definitely NOT always easy, as I have to be in authority (and with that, comes specific responsibilities and obligations), but it's all good. God is good.

As far as the Continentals go, I have a little under $3000 left to raise for support: but I also have the additional fees of going there: plane fees, $500 camp fee, spending money, etc. But God has me here! And hey: I NOW OWN A BRAND NEW DISCMAN!! all because of a couple I was talking with, and they somehow picked up on how I wanted one for when I fly--and they went out and bought me one!!!! GOD IS SOOOOOOOOOOOOO GOOD!!

Well, that's my life so far. I love my times with Jesus: I love looking forward to spending time with Him. I love how an hour and a half just isn't enough. I love Him.

well, I should go. Please, everyone--update me on you!!

LIVING WATERS.....and ERIN B....

Okay ya'll: BIG NEWS FOR YOU: Shauna is spending her summer at Living Waters!! Can you believe it? 'cause I can't? It's quite a long story of how I have arrived to be there, but trust me, I am. I am their Female Head Counselor/ Asst. Program Director...unbelievable, eh? I'm QUITE excited at this challenge and new change of pace. NO MORE SLEEPING WITH CAMPERS!! J/k...well, sort of. I'm terrified, but I am so thrilled to step up to the plate with this!! oh yeah....Erin B...

My dearest Erin B.? EVERY TIME I EMAIL YOU IT COMES BACK!! SO YOU HAVE TO WRITE ME FIRST! (shaunamarie00@yahoo.com) Erin...I miss you so much! And yes--they're getting married! Aug. 20th? And guess what? I'm singing for them! I'm so excited: to sing for them and to see them get married and to see everyone else! (Now I just need to find a place to stay!:0) Anyways, Erin dear, I miss you terribly. I love you!!

Yup, so that's right everyone: My friends from PEI, Nathan and Celeste, are to wed in Aug!! I'm so excited for them! And it's funny, 'cause sometimes being single, when your best friends are married and having kids, I get kinda' lonely. But the Lord has really been showing me the last little while, just exactly the privilege it is to be single at this stage in my life!! I can do sooooooo much!! Thank you Lord! You truly know best!!

I Still Don't Know Why....BUT....

So, I still don't know why I'm here in New Hampshire, but I am, and I know that this is where I am to be: for now at least. I work for Monadnock Bible Conference 2-3 days a week, doing some house cleaning....and I may be looking into a waitressing job in town, but we'll see. "So how do you know that you're supposed to be there, Shauna? And not somewhere else?" Honestly, I just know, because every other option doesn't even seem possible. But being here is. I've been given a place to live, food to eat, challenges, and hey: Guess what??!! I'M DRIVING!! That's right, here in New Hampshire there are not driving permits...just license's!! So I'm going for my license here!! I'm soooooooooo excited!!

sorry so short, but I'm going to go eat stuffed-crust pizza for the first time: EVER!!

WHERE AM I, LORD?

Okay ya'll: That's the point that I'm at right now: WHERE AM I, LORD? I feel sometimes that there is just ABSOLUTELY NOTHING that I can do: and at other times, I feel as though my life is my fault because of some laziness that I have: though I really haven't been. I may have the opportunity to be a nanny, I'm going to clean for Monadnock here, a couple days a week for the next week, plus, I'm calling Rite-Aid tomorrow, and calling a couple of contacts for a centre with children w/ disabilities. (I can't believe I just noticed that I spelt "centre" the Canadian way:0) So, ya'll can pray for me with this. Perhaps the Lord doesn't even want me to work this summer: maybe that's why I am having a hard time: it's all in the Lord's hands, and I am slowly getting that point.

Apparently, my Continentals stuff is in: So tomorrow I'll most likely be receiving my music to learn!! Ever pumped me! And oh....

I sang at the ARISE event, with my friend Andy, and his band. We performed a couple of his songs from his cd....it was such an interesting night. I had a hard time getting focused (I think b/c it had been so long since I've sang there), but finally, by the song "PRAISE ADONAI", my heart just sang for God, and it was amazing!! I love God soooooooo much!! We performed "It Is Well With My Soul", the Shane & Shane way, (really slow and beautiful), and it was so amazing to praise God during that song that all I wanted to do was drop on my knees and sing it and clap and shout for God!! HE IS LORD!

love ya'll.

Jobs.

hey there ya'll: this job hunting is hard. I now understand how hard it is for people to find decent jobs with decent pay: this is ridiculous. I applied to 5 places in Dover, NH: Rite-Aid, Brooks, Staples; Bed, Bath and Beyond and Hannaford's. The whole prospect of working in these places terrifies that begeebee's right out of: I can't even express it in words. I actually wish that I wasn't a lazy teenager and did work part-time during high school: I'm so scared, so scared.

so, right now, I'm babysitting Josiah: my friend's kid. (the same one as before.) Anyways, he's beautiful: and I'm going to cry when I have to say goodbye: if I have to. Perhaps I'll find a job here in Jaffrey or something. Who knows?! The Lord does!

So I have found my verses for the summer: Psalm 24:3-6. They're amazing. And I've decided to read no other book but the Bible from now 'til I return from the Continentals. The Word of God is what I should run to: not others, and not other books. I need a desire for His Word: I hunger for that. And it's awesome, 'cause the Lord has been teaching my mom that same lesson too, so it's cool.

well, I should get going. have a great day!:0)

Back in the U.S.A.!!

Hey ya'll: sorry it's been so long since I've updated: quite a bit has happened. I am a recent graduate of New Brunswck Bible Institute, located in Canada. I now have my diploma of of Theological and Biblical Studies, along with a diploma of Advanced Biblical Ministries. It was such an emotional 4-5 days at the school: seeing some of my closest friends in the world for the last time, plus having to say goodbye to some from where I interned in PEI, Canada, plus, being totally physically, mentally and spiritually exhausted, PLUS, the realization that it is time for me to grow up. Needless to say, I'm exhausted.

I'm now in Jaffrey, New Hampshire, visiting and vacationing. My friends Bethany and Andy have a gorgeous 15 month old, Josiah, who brightens my countenance every time my eyes fall on him. I pray for my (perhaps) future children that they will light up the room as he does. Anyways, so after a couple weeks here, I will most likely return to Maine to get a job for the summer, so I can join the Continentals in the fall. (which reminds me, I need to mail a check!)

well, it's 10:40 pm, and I'm totally exhausted. Please, stay in contact ya'll.