Junior Mints

Half-way through my junior year and rejoicing! Whenever a semester comes to a close, I am left to ponder the ways in which the time challenged and stretched me. Amidst the craziness of taking 17 credits, working, and enjoying all that the campus of Grand Valley has to offer, I have felt accomplished, discouraged, excited, and calm. Michigan seasons are symbolic of personal life, as we go through all that the days involve. The winter in its crisp freshness, brings gloom, while the summer in its sunshine brings rain.

I can not go much further without introducing the man of which God has used to strengthen and encourage me this semester. Tony and I started dating in August, after a grand date adventure at the Toledo Zoo. Grad School brings him nearly 6 hours away, but thankfully God has provided the time for us to meet nearly twice a month. I have never been an accomplished conversationalist on the phone; believe you me those skills have gotten much better over the last three months :)

In addition to getting to know this wonderful man, I have been appreciating the people God has allowed me to draw closer to through conversation and experiences. My dear, dear, sister Christina enjoys what we originally coined as bible study, but amounted to much needed girl talk, every Tuesday afternoon as we venture the streets of Grand Rapids. We are both encouraged through the couple of hours to talk and gain insight from one another. I appreciate her greatly.

I joined the Campus Ministries prayer team this semester. The prayer is great and the friendship is grand. Our small group of five ladies has become quite the bonding place. The girls friendship is something I treasure and thank the Lord for providing in my life.

My little Gabester turned 16 yesterday. My goodness, time really does go quickly. This semester, I have been joining my family for dinner on Thursday nights, which has proven to be a great place for some R&R. Rest and Relaxation in the Stille household is not being calm and tranquil, but rather loud and crazy. I like it that way :) Thanksgiving was indeed something to be greatful for as the family travelled out to Westerville, Ohio to enjoy a feast with the cousins. Uncle Bill and Aunt Char, you are great hosts!

Tony and I were recently talking about it being fairly odd that chef's can become famous. Which led us into the question of what we would want to be famous for. I want to be a motivational speaker, I think it would be a very fufilling profession to help others reach their full potential by speaking God's work into them and showering them with encouragment. Maybe some day...

In closing, five classes later, I have finished another semester. God continues to provide daily bread and from it I eat and am fufilled. In all honesty, I at times disregard this provision, leading to discontentment and discouragment.

This holiday season, take, eat, and do this in remembrance of the one who gives you breathe.

Growing, Learning, and Enjoying,

AnnaBelle