New Blog

http://acstanders.blogspot.com/2012/02/little-bundle-of-joy.html

The Spirit of God

Yesterday I had the opportunity to be a tour guide for the Atlanta LDS Temple Open House. It was the most amazing experience that I have ever had. We arrived at the temple grounds at 6:30 in the morning to prepare for the day. When we arrived, it was still dark- and the view of the lit temple against the bright stars was absolutely breathtaking! We received our instructions then headed out to our respective spots. As a tour guide, we took groups of 5-40 people from the church building (that is directly behind the temple) to the temple to see the inside. The tour began with a brief video about what temples mean to Latter-day Saints and mentions some of the ordinances performed inside. I had the pleasure of being the tour guide that followed the group- to make sure that no one got lost or left behind. Why was it such a pleasure? Because I got to see people's reactions- I got to see the looks that children gave their parents, I got to see everything! I had SO many experiences that truly built upon my testimony of the truthfulness of the work that goes on in temples. Each room is glorious and of indescribable beauty! I loved getting to go through so many times, because it enabled me to see the rooms over and over again!
I must admit, though- at the end of the day, I was utterly exhausted!!! I did all three shifts and helped clean up afterwards......so we ended up leaving at 10:30 pm. But, I wouldn't trade that day for anything in the world!! What made it even more of an amazing experience is that I will be able to be sealed in that very temple in less than 23 days! On the last shift, Aaron's (my wonderfully amazing fiance) post was directly outside the sealing room. So every time we would leave the sealing room I would get to see his handsome face. To be honest, I got emotional several times. I can't wait to marry him!! But, I don't need to get started on him..... this post will never end!!! :) Anyway, I just wanted to share a tidbit of my experience yesterday!
Before I close, I just want to share a little bit of my testimony- I know that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the restored gospel upon the face of the earth. I know that My Savior suffered and died for me (okay, maybe all of us.....), I know that temples have been set up on the earth to make it possible that we can all return home to be with our Heavenly Father AND be with our families for all eternity. I don't know about you, but I don't think it would be heaven without MY family there..... I think I'd opt out of that one. I know the Book of Mormon was an inspired book written by prophets of ancient America. I'm so extremely grateful to all those who have sacrificed so much just so that I can learn more about my Father in Heaven and His plan for me. I know that Joseph Smith was called of God to restore the gospel to the earth. I leave all of this with you- in my brother's name, even Jesus Christ, Amen.

Examples

I was watching another General Conference talk this morning and I was hit by how absolutely amazing my parents are. My whole life they have had incredible struggles, and yet they always made sure we were nourished spiritually and physically. They would always bear their testimony to us and help us learn SO much about the purpose of this life. Everything I am today, I owe to them. My relationship with my Savior wouldn't be what it is, if it wasn't for them. I am so blessed and I don't think I'll ever be able to convey just how grateful I am to them for everything they've done for me. All I can do is hope that I can someday be more like them. I was so blessed with my family- and I hope they know how much they mean to me. So, if you read this- Mama and Daddy- I love you! Thanks for putting up with this crazy daughter of yours!

Follow-up

Well, the blind date was so much fun! We went to a tapas restaurant....which is where they serve finger foods (or appetizers) instead of full dishes. It was delicious! Then we went back to my friend's house to play my Wii. The entire time I was laughing. He seems like a fun guy. Not a juicy update- but that's the way it went. He didn't try anything and opened all my doors for me. So, I think it was a good date.

I'm braving it!

YEP! I am going on one......friday night. What am I thinking? Good question. Haha, I have mixed emotions about it. But, hey- part of life is experiencing different things, right?! The way I see it, I will hopefully gain another friend. To be continued........

Still alive! :)

Sorry I've slacked off. Life has become so hectic, yep, again! But, I am still alive and plugging away. I signed up for another half marathon- April 28th. I'm excited AND nervous. It seems like each time I sign up for one of these things, stuff happens. I got sick with the flu- then had all sorts of test and assignments....... maybe I'll get around to training for it. Maybe. And right now, I should be working on a talk for church tomorrow. But, I am so nervous- not having given a talk for seven years, makes the event a little nerve racking. Oh well. I'm sure it'll be fine. Thankfully, I think everyone somewhat loves me there....... haha, I sure hope so anyway.


I have had the opportunity to help teach an investigator lately, which has been a lot of fun. She has asked so many deep questions that I've just never thought about before. So, it's been a lot of fun to learn and grow with her. She is an amazing girl.

I think that is about all. I lead a pretty boring life (haha, okay- not so much, I just can never remember when I go to post these things!).

A wonderful beginning

On January 5th I took the GRE, which is the Graduate Record Examination. Pretty much, it's the SAT for graduate school. I was so nervous because I felt like I hadn't had much time to study for it. Well, I'm sure you all know by now- but I made 350 points more than I needed to get into grad school!!! WOOHOO! Now, I just have to start working on grad school applications. What a wonderful way to start off the new year.

On a different note, I didn't make many "New Year's Resolutions" because I am starting to feel that just because it's a new year, doesn't mean that's the only time you should make goals. So, I am just continuing goals I made last year.

I am constantly amazed at how quickly life is flying by me. I am really starting to realize the importance of living to the fullest and working on becoming a much better person. With that- I leave you all with a quote I recently discovered:
"Don't say you don't have enough time. You have exactly the same number of hours per day that were given to Helen Keller, Pasteur, Michaelangelo, Mother Teresea, Leonardo da Vinci, Thomas Jefferson, and Albert Einstein." ~Life's Little Instruction Book, compiled by H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

Happy New Year's!

For New Year's Eve, a group from the branch decided to go to ATL to see the peach drop. As usual, I am game for anything. It was an interesting experience and I can't believe just how many people do the same. The crazy part- the peach is FLAT! I don't know why, but that shocked me........ haha! It was fun, though, to ring in the new year with such a wonderful group of friends! I am excited to see what 2010 holds!

My little bro got married!!!

Yesterday, Matthew got married to a wonderful girl named Alexa. It was a beautiful day and it was wonderful to be able to help them celebrate such a wonderful day. Don't have much more to say than that! :) I am super proud of him and excited for them both as they embark on their new adventure as a family. They are going to have some wonderful years together!

Heated seat warmers

So, yesterday I had the lovely pleasure of running an 8K with Josh & Natalie. I always love to hang out with them because it seems like we are always laughing! Alright...... so, before the race begins, we go to the restroom. No one is leaving as we walk in. Remember that! So, Madison just built this new town square with a beautiful restroom. As I sit down, I notice how warm the seat is.... and I'm thinking- WOW, heated seat warmers. They went to some serious lengths to make sure the visitors are comfy. Who cares, I LOVE it! ;) So, when I step out of the stall- I ask Natalie how she enjoyed her seat warmer. Her response, what? I repeated. She said- there aren't seat warmers. This continues. Eventually, we head back to the restroom immediately before the race begins....... guess what?! No seat warmers!!! Only me.
Anyway, the above pic is of the three of us right after the race!

Holidays are here.....

Well, when the holiday season started I noticed I was feeling something I've never before felt. I was a scrooge!! I didn't care whether or not the season came and I just wanted it to hurry past. I've put up NO decorations- and to be quite honest, didn't plan on doing anything at my house. If you know me well, my favorite time of year is from Thanksgiving until New Years!! I LIVE for that time. I know, I've been through alot, as people are so swift to point out....... but still!!!

SO, yesterday was the First Presidency Christmas Devotional. I do believe I cried through almost ALL of it!!! My amazing wonderful friend sitting next to me leaned over in the middle and said "it IS dusty in here". Haha, how did I get such wonderful understanding friends?! Anyway, I really needed to hear the words that were spoken- about how this season is about Christ. Well, to continue that thought- I got my ensign today. I opened it and decided to read a little in between classes. Let's just say- another reality check. This isn't a depressing holiday season- even when you've gone through a divorce and have no idea where your life is headed! This is a season of light and direction. It's a season of pure love and wonderful families! It's a season when we have the opportunity to serve others and really get a small taste of what eternity will be. I am not alone- nor will I ever be. I am getting blessed with an even larger family than I was blessed with when I started this mortal life! AND- I get to be with them for eternity. So, even though I am single- I will never be alone, as long as we all make the choices that lead us closer to our Father in Heaven. So, now- I can say, without any hesitation, MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!

Here are some race pics

So, there are a couple! I just wanted to add some thoughts..... while I was out there jogging I was amazed at how impossible it seemed, just a year ago, that I would ever jog 13.1 miles! And yet, on race day, the miles and time just rushed by. Now, when people find out that I ran a half marathon they say- I could never do that. I just think to myself, you really could- it's all about your mental determination! At the end of the race, when you realize that you did that- all by yourself...... well, it's impossible to understand the emotions that came to me that day. I don't think any other day will be as special to me as the 2 hours and 38 minutes I spent running where a horrible civil war battle raged. I am excited to see where I am headed next in life and see what kind of race, running and just living, I will be a part of.
I am amazed, still, at the thought that I could accomplish a half marathon. It makes me think about how many other things I have said "I can't do that" to. Never again. :)

Well, Thanksgiving is fast approaching, so one last thought: I am so grateful for the love of all my family and friends throughout the years. I know I haven't always been the easiest person to love, yet they have always been there. :)

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!

Race day came and went....

So, it's official!!! I am hooked on racing! I absolutely LOVED LOVED LOVED doing my half marathon in Chickamauga. It was gorgeous, thought provoking, and exhilarating. I don't have any pics of me from the actual race yet, but they will be coming soon. Next up- full marathon!!! WOOHOO! The picture above was while we were waiting for dinner, I decided to test out all the kid's things (train, merry go round, etc). And I casually invited my brothers (okay, I commanded them, but still....) to join in for a photo op! I'm such a wonderful sister!!! The weekend was amazing, and words can't describe how wonderful it was to have my daddy and brothers cheering me on! They really helped motivate me to run just a little further! Families are AMAZING!

Winds of change!

So, the past few weeks have been interesting. I am learning more about myself than I think I ever have. Haha, and let's just say- I'm quite boring! ;) Just kidding. But, last week was the best week I've had since everything happened. That being said- today........ something just feels different. Not sure what and I am excited to see what is going to happen. I am almost giddy this morning and that hasn't happened to me since........hm, who knows?! :) Ah, life! YEAH!

Little bit of me...

So, football season is going strong. (just wish the dawgs were!!) I bought season home tickets this year. Our first game of the season we lost, but last week- we won!! :) Yeah!
Unfortunately, I have to admit to an addiction- I LOVE college football.
So, the first picture is a little blurry, but you get the point! ;) The second pic is of a friend of mine in my branch. I go with a few members from the branch. It is so much fun!

Other than that, things are going pretty well. I seem to stay super busy. I just started a part time job. A member family in a ward here in Athens needed help with their family (a little of everything) two nights a week. So, I started that last week. I am really enjoying it. Haha, not hard- since I love kids! These kids are so much fun- I love getting paid to play!
School is going well. Not much to report there! I can't wait to graduate!!! :)

And it begins....

I signed up last night to run a half marathon through Chickamauga battlefield. I am super excited!! I actually have a relative named James Beard who fought, died, and is buried there. So, that kind of makes it even more exciting to be able to run the fields he fought so hard on! And it looks like I may be running the Disney half marathon as well with my cousin's wife. That will be so much fun!

I also signed up to take a rock climbing class. I get to do it next tuesday night. Fun fun!!!

It's fun to start making plans for just me. I plan on staying single for quite a while. (Hopefully Heavenly Father feels the same!!!) I want to just enjoy being by myself and get to know myself again.
So, there's my excitement! :)

It's official!

Yesterday was the divorce hearing. Yes, I am officially Christina Norris, divorcee. Time for fun! :) Actually, it's just nice to know that it's all done. I can now move forward with my life, and not have to look back. I truly hope Jason finds the happiness he is looking for in this life, I'm just glad that I get the same opportunity. I am hoping to learn so much from this experience and hopefully be a much better person for it. I just wanted to let everyone know.....

Wow....

So while I was home, Matthew showed me his slideshow of the pictures we took while we were in Waveland, Mississippi cleaning up after Hurricane Katrina. I forgot how completely devasted it was there!!! I am in awe at the amazing powers of nature and also the willingness of humans to help those who they don't even know. It's attests to the amazing power of our Heavenly Father!!! I am attaching it- for you all to enjoy. He did an incredible job and I am grateful that I have those memories.

"These difficult lessons teach us that man's extremity is God's opportunity, and if we will be humble and faithful, if we will be believing and not curse God for our problems, He can turn the unfair and inhumane and debilitating prisons of our lives into temples- or at least into a circumstance that can bring comfort and revelation, divine companionship and peace."
-Elder Jeffrey R. Holland


Sorry all of my posts have been serious lately. I guess everything is starting to really sink in. And I just can't say how grateful I am to have the gospel back in my life.

New song

Well, as I sit here listening to my new cd, I have found my theme song. It's called "Details in The Fabric" by Jason Mraz. It says "Hold your own, know your name, and go your own way. Everything will be fine." To sum it up- just says that if your heart is broken- to continue in life and rebuild your life. And that everything will be fine!! Amen to that!

Take the jumps- is one of the last things it says..... I firmly believe that life is full of those. I am so grateful that we have that extra help. :) That is how I KNOW everything will be fine.

I'm rebelling...

Haha, so I am sure the name of this blog brought up some questions..... but here is how:
Jason was so stinking cheap, we never got new phones or bought movies, cds, etc.
1. My old phone was not accepting new texts, I would have to remove the battery and restart the stinking thing to actually get it to work. After 4 times, I went to Verizon and got a new phone..... and got the one I wanted!!!! I am LOVING it!!!
2. Today at Walmart I got a new cd!!! :) I really enjoy Jason Mraz, so I bought his cd!! I am done with a guy telling me what to do. I am my own person 100% now. I am going to enjoy it. Yeah!!!!

So, not as bad as you thought at first, I am sure...... haha, gotta keep everyone on their toes. :)