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The Ramblings of me: amymelissa

 
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The Ramblings of me: amymelissa - 7/13/2007 3:41:33 AM  1 votes
amymelissa


Posts: 2668
Joined: 8/15/2005
From: South Australia
Status: offline
Well ... my very first blog. I am not sure how regularly I am going to update, but I will, I promise you that.

It seems such a fitting time in my life to begin a blog here; I just finished my Certificate III in Business Administration last Thursday, and I attended Christian Life Week (CLW: a Christian camp) as a leader for the first time this week. I just got home, in fact. Next week I will be job hunting, so now is a very appropriate time to begin this.

Firstly I guess I should introduce myself for those who do not know me. My name is Amy and I am 18 years old and live in South Australia. I live at home with my parents and two younger brothers, 16 and 13. I have a boyfriend, Jesse, who is 19 and whom I have been with for over 3 years. (I know, we're very young)

Anyway, camp. It was amazing. It is for high school students, and I had been 4 times previously, in years 8, 9, 11 and 12. This week was my first time as a leader, and I was quite nervous. I had only decided 1 month before the camp that I was able to go as a leader, as they needed another female. So I went along to the meetings to go through the Bible Study, and that, I guess, made me a little more nervous. I was going to have to lead campers through a study which I had only just read and learned, and I'm not very experienced myself. Luckily, the leader with me was a close friend and a lot more mature and wise in her faith and she was able to help me explain things when I didn't know how. And we led a small group of Year 8 girls, which was much easier for me because I didn't feel so inadequate in my faith.

The Bible Studies were on the book of Romans, and it is such an amazing book when we look at it closer. I learned so much from the studies and through listening to the other leaders devotions in morning worship and just through the discussions with others around me. Paul examines and explains so much of what it is to be a Christian and tells us how we should live.

We started off the week looking at how we are sinful and how there is nothing good about the flesh and the human nature. Then we moved on to God's grace and just how much he loves us and how we should live as Christians in the Spirit and in Christ. We used Paul's analogy of slaves and even played a game to demonstrate what Paul is saying. We are slaves to sin, and then we were bought by God even while sinners and when Jesus died for us we were set from our sin and are able to live freely.

I should probably stop now, this post is getting quite long. But I will leave you with a passage that really touched me: Romans 8:31-39

So, what do you think? With God on our side like this, how can we lose? If God didn't hesitate to put everything on the line for us, embracing our condition and exposing himself to the worst by sending his own Son, is there anything else he wouldn't gladly and freely do for us? And who would dare tangle with God by messing with one of God's chosen? Who would dare even to point a finger? The One who died for us—who was raised to life for us!—is in the presence of God at this very moment sticking up for us. Do you think anyone is going to be able to drive a wedge between us and Christ's love for us? There is no way! Not trouble, not hard times, not hatred, not hunger, not homelessness, not bullying threats, not backstabbing, not even the worst sins listed in Scripture:

They kill us in cold blood because they hate you.
We're sitting ducks; they pick us off one by one.

None of this fazes us because Jesus loves us. I'm absolutely convinced that nothing—nothing living or dead, angelic or demonic, today or tomorrow, high or low, thinkable or unthinkable—absolutely nothing can get between us and God's love because of the way that Jesus our Master has embraced us.


_____________________________

~Joshua 1:9

I now have a blog: here

Come and join our new Christian RP forum!
Post #: 1
RE: The Ramblings of me: amymelissa - 7/15/2007 9:39:41 PM   
amymelissa


Posts: 2668
Joined: 8/15/2005
From: South Australia
Status: offline
Well, back again. It is now Monday morning and I haven't done a very good job of attempting to recover from camp (sleep-wish, that is). I had a really good weekend, and it was wonderful being able to see my boyfriend again. I was at his house for a couple hours on Friday night, and I was just so excited about what I had learned that I just had to find a Bible in his house and share with him some obscure verses and passages that seemed hilarious at 1.30 in the morning. I went home at 9pm and, although I wasn't feeling very tired, fell asleep almost as soon as I turned my light off.

I woke up to my alarm at 7am Saturday morning. Having taken the day off of work to recover from camp I had volunteered my services helping one of Jesse's colleagues (Scott) move house. We ended up leaving home about quarter past 8 and being the first ones to arrive to help Scott move. His finance Robyn was there to help out also. It was a very long day, and I only got to see the new house at about 5pm, having stayed back at the old house with Robyn to help clean so she wasn't lonely. This was actually the first time I had said more than hi to her, and it was really good getting to know her. She is a Lutheran teacher of grade 2's, and it's amazing what God has done in her life and Scott's life to bring them together.

Jesse and I headed home about 6, picking up KFC for tea on the way home. A few of his friends came over and we watched episodes of Scrubs for a couple hours. One of them had a 7am flight the next morning so he left about 9.30 and the others shortly after. But I ended up staying until just after midnight, when I was really about to fall asleep, but we were watching a documentary about the real story of the 300 Spartans and I wanted to see the end.

Sunday morning was a great sleep in for me. I didn't have to get up early and go to church as I attend a youth service in a town 15 minutes away at night, and last night was to be a CLW reunion kind of service. Anyway, once my parents and brother got back from church and we had lunch we headed out to a nature park where there was some water fall or something and met up with my cousin. We went for a walk to the falls and eventually headed back toward home. The service that night was interesting. I got there at about 4.30 to help set up. Jesse was on sound, which meant he was there to help set everything up and I was helping Gretel, a leader of a few bands and an excellent singer, sort out music and the service order. She needed a good dose of patience as the afternoon wore on as there were many things not working out. But it all came together in the end, and praise God it did. Both Jesse and Gretel were looking to murder someone about half an hour before the service.

After the service a group of us all went back to Jesse's house and watched a movie. He's home alone so the whole starting a movie night at 11pm doesn't really bother anyone as they are on holidays or don't work on Mondays. I got home about 1.30 and stayed up a while longer to give my electric blanket time to warm up.

And now it is Monday. It is just after 11am and I am yet to have breakfast. Today I need to apply for a job that mum found in the paper for me and go into work to see if I can get any extra shifts while I am not studying. Wish me luck!

Until next time, thank you for reading and God bless.

_____________________________

~Joshua 1:9

I now have a blog: here

Come and join our new Christian RP forum!
Post #: 2
RE: The Ramblings of me: amymelissa - 7/18/2007 5:56:13 AM   
amymelissa


Posts: 2668
Joined: 8/15/2005
From: South Australia
Status: offline
Just a quick one today. I wrote this during solitude time on camp and thought I should share it with you.

Father, you created me
I am yours
You have faith in me
And I in you
Father, you love me
You Son died
He was a sacrifice for me
And I for you

Father I want to live for you
I want to be a living sacrifice
I give to you my all, it's yours
Please use me to do your will


I'm not entirely sure whether or not it was meant to be a poem a start of a song or simply a prayer, but it's written.

God bless,
Amy.

_____________________________

~Joshua 1:9

I now have a blog: here

Come and join our new Christian RP forum!
Post #: 3
RE: The Ramblings of me: amymelissa - 7/21/2007 9:23:32 PM   
amymelissa


Posts: 2668
Joined: 8/15/2005
From: South Australia
Status: offline
Well, I think it is indeed time for another blog. I have had a good week, tho I warn you now that I'm venting.

I didn't actually do much during the week... that kind of made it good. But there was one slight... annoyance...I guess you could call it. I felt so great after camp, joyous and bursting to share what I had learned with those around me ... especially Jesse so our relationship could deepen. Unfortunately, one of his friends had decided to stay over at his house which cut our time together right down. Now, I am very understanding about this, Jesse doesn't get to see his friends very often, so I let them have this time, but when this friend was still there Wednesday (from Sunday) I was getting quite annoyed. So I messaged Jesse: "We are going to go thru the CLW Bible Study on Friday. Make sure you're free, ok? Sorry to sound so demanding but I wanna spend this time with you." And that was all good, Jesse said he would set the time aside and was looking forward to it. On Thursday, things changed. I worked on Thursday (yay, money!) and as I was coming home I received a message from Jesse saying that one of his other friends was coming over on Friday to get his computer fixed as it wasn't all able to be done the other day. I was soo disappointed, but he apologised sincerely and I knew it wasn't really his fault. Jesse is very generous when it comes to time and computer help.

On Thursday night, though, I did something I was not proud of. We had a leaders de-brief meeting for camp, and the friend who was going to Jesse's the next day was there. I kinda snapped at him a bit for taking this time away from me, but I immediately regretted it, as this was the kind of person who would actually not go to Jesse's because I said so (he's really really nice). Having dug myself a hole I had to apologise a bit and tell him that he had to go, Jesse was going to be distracted anyway (one of his friends was evicted that day and he helped him move). So I managed to convince this friend that he still had to go to Jesse's.

I saw Jesse briefly that day (he had his hair cut, it's shorter now...quite funny) and when he dropped me home he said that he felt really bad for not being able to go through the study with me and that he was looking forward to it. This made me feel a lot better. He also said that we would have to do it this week over a couple nights after work. (He was on holidays last week)

Anyway, that was my vent, I'm feeling much better now. Now I can tell you about the highlights of my week.

On Tuesday a group of us (about 20) from church/CLW went to the movies and saw Transformers cos it was the cheap night. That movie seriously exceeded my expectations. I loved it, and I didn't think I'd like it at all. Normally Tuesday is our night for cards, which means we end up at Mann's house chatting and playing Warlords. But now that I know how to play other games it may change. Anyway, after the movie we went back to one house and chatted and played cards. Cheat does not work with 12 people ... especially with Jesse playing (he just calls cheat on everyone)

Friday night I had youth group. It was part II of a study our pastor was running about Baptism. I found it really interesting, and the questions that were raised and discussed were ones that I had been struggling with, so it was also really helpful to me as well.

Um, Saturday I worked. Twas fun. Have I mentioned I work in a chocolate factory?! That night (last night) was Jesse's brothers 18th party. His name is Jack. So I was at his party until almost 1.30am. But that brings up another issue: drinking alcohol. This one is a biggie for me as it kinda ruined a friendship for me (due to differing opinions). I believe that there is nothing wrong with drinking, but I disagree with getting drunk or off your face or whatever. So I had a few to drink and made sure that I had a ride home before I did, but I was still very coherent and all throughout the night. Btw, all of this drinking thing is kinda new to me. I've only been 18 for 3 weeks, and although pretty much all of my friends drank before then, I never have, mainly due to the guilt I felt over the opinion of this other friend. I will get into that story later, it's quite long and I should probably finish this up now.

God bless you all for reading, hope it's not too boring or too whiny for you.

_____________________________

~Joshua 1:9

I now have a blog: here

Come and join our new Christian RP forum!
Post #: 4
RE: The Ramblings of me: amymelissa - 7/25/2007 12:03:08 AM   
amymelissa


Posts: 2668
Joined: 8/15/2005
From: South Australia
Status: offline
Well, tis Wednesday and I have had an exciting opportunity, but I will get to that later.

On Sunday I borrowed the seventh Harry Potter book from my friend (who had just finished it himself) and read it in (total) 4 to 5 hours, which I thought was pretty impressive. I managed to buy my own copy to finish off my collection on Tuesday. Um, Monday ... I didn't actually do a lot. I went out with mum to have a look at pots, as I was given a small tree for my birthday. That night I don't think I did anything either... was good to have a night home.

On Tuesday I was able to make an appointment with the job placement person at my business college so mum and I drove into the City and saw her. It was really good and she said that there were a few jobs still going that I could apply for so she sent off my resume. Then we met my Aunty Jo for lunch and my cousin Sarah (one after the other). With Aunty Jo she bought me the 7th Harry Potter book as a belated b'day present. When I got home I got a call from the lady at college saying that one of the businesses she sent my resume to was having interviews tomorrow and was wondering if I wanted to go!! I was excited, so I said yes. (More about interview later) That night after dinner Jesse and I went over to our friends house 20 mins away for our social cards night. There wasn't much cards being played, but it was good having a chat with people again. Though I'm feeling distant from Jesse at the moment. I've not been able to see him very much. Even at his brother's birthday party he left at about 10 to go to the "Lutheran LAN" - yeah, he's a geek. Hopefully this will kinda go away if we're able to go through the CLW Bible Study on Thurs. I made sure he set aside that night for me.

Anyway, today - Wednesday. I had my interview this morning at 11.15am and I thought it went well. It was so much more relaxed and friendly than my other interview. I felt as though these people were ones I'd get along with ... and they were Christians! That was an extra bonus. So now it's up to God whether or not this is the job for me.

Well, must be off; threads to post in, books to read!

God bless,
Amy.

P.s. A friend showed me today Psalm 139, a chapter I had never really taken notice of before, and it was really beautiful.

_____________________________

~Joshua 1:9

I now have a blog: here

Come and join our new Christian RP forum!
Post #: 5
RE: The Ramblings of me: amymelissa - 7/26/2007 6:28:59 AM   
amymelissa


Posts: 2668
Joined: 8/15/2005
From: South Australia
Status: offline
Well, I was hoping to keep my post count at 2222 as long as possible, but it seems that a blog is necessary. Even though it has been barely a day since I last posted I thought that I should at least write something. I spent most of this morning online, bumping my post count to the fabulous number of quad-2's. But never mind. But then I went out and did something I never thought I would do: I bought a pair of crocs! We sell them at work, and I quite like the look of the "Prima" ones so to support the business I bought a green pair that I really hope go with everything.

And I mentioned in my previous blog that Jesse and I were meant to go through the CLW Bible study tonight but I don't see this happening. It's not that Jesse isn't coming, it's more the fact that he knows he will not be in the right frame of mind. He's had a very stressful day (5 of the 7 guys in his office are away sick and he isn't feeling 100%) and he rang earlier to say that he would still come over, but not for the Bible Study. And I don't blame him, we'll probably just watch TV together or talk or something.

During the day I went over to my friend's house. She was my best friend last year but through differing opinions we have drifted apart a bit, but it was good catching up with her again. We played GameCube and she helped my organise an activity for a youth group tomorrow night and it was fun.

Oh, and Melissa, when I Googled my username I came up with 3,240 hits! This blog was top of the list but a lot of the other entries were not mine. But I will give the same warning she gave: be careful about what you post on the forum here, you never know who might be reading it.

God's blessings to you all.

_____________________________

~Joshua 1:9

I now have a blog: here

Come and join our new Christian RP forum!
Post #: 6
RE: The Ramblings of me: amymelissa - 7/27/2007 5:48:48 AM   
amymelissa


Posts: 2668
Joined: 8/15/2005
From: South Australia
Status: offline
My dad sent me this link in an email today. It's really shocking to see such statistics.

World Clock

God bless,
Amy.

_____________________________

~Joshua 1:9

I now have a blog: here

Come and join our new Christian RP forum!
Post #: 7
RE: The Ramblings of me: amymelissa - 7/28/2007 10:03:13 AM   
amymelissa


Posts: 2668
Joined: 8/15/2005
From: South Australia
Status: offline
Well, I had a great evening with Jesse tonight, though it did not look like that at the beginning. We were meant to go on a double date with one of the guys from Jesse's work and his fiance but S was sick and they were not able to make it. So Jesse and I decided that we would go by ourselves and see a movie afterwards (the restaurant we were going to is right next to the cinema). And I was thinking, maybe God had made S sick so Jesse and I would finally be able to have a dinner together (that was kinda the reason S had decided to go on a double date in the first place - so Jesse would take me out)

I had made reservations on like, Wednesday for 6.30pm so Jesse picked me up extra early because he had a drop a sound system at someone's house for the after-formal party for his old school. We were meant to get there at 6.10, set it up and be at the restaurant at 6.30 to meet my parents so they could give me a discount card. Well, the place was so hard to find we only ended up getting there at 6.30 and it took half an hour to set it up ... and even then it was not quite done. So we left, saying we'd be back in about 3 hours to finish. We made it to the restaurant shortly after 7 (I had gotten mum to tell them that we'd be late), got our dinner about 8 and made it to the 8.30 screening of the Simpsons movie. During dinner, though, there seemed to be not a lot of conversation between me and Jesse. We are such different people, and we know each other so well that there really isn't a lot to talk about, especially in a restaurant surrounded by dozens of people. The movie, though, made the night so worthwhile. It was fantastic, and wasn't too long to get boring.

So overall the night didn't turn out too badly. We went back to the house after the movie to finish setting up the sound system and that went well, and I made it home by 11pm, which I thought was quite reasonable. I am still annoyed that I have not been able to go through the Bible Study with Jesse yet, the Devil is definitely doing his best to stop that. I shall try again next week. It is now 11.30pm so I am going to bed.

God bless,
Amy.

P.s. I can't believe how often I've written on this blog. Don't get used to it being this regularly though, there's just a lot happening at the moment.

_____________________________

~Joshua 1:9

I now have a blog: here

Come and join our new Christian RP forum!
Post #: 8
RE: The Ramblings of me: amymelissa - 8/1/2007 1:13:34 AM   
amymelissa


Posts: 2668
Joined: 8/15/2005
From: South Australia
Status: offline
Well, I have had an interesting week so far. I had another job interview today in the city, and the people there were really nice and it seemed like a good atmosphere to work in. The only issue I had: it was an accounting firm. I don't particularly want to work in financial, but maybe this is where God is leading me. I haven't heard back from the other place yet. Last night, though, I was having second thoughts about the interview this morning. I really wanted to just ring up and tell them that I wasn't interested in the job. I am not in any position though, to be turning down interviews, so I went and I enjoyed it.

On Monday night I went to Jesse's and played Monopoly ... and I actually won! Jesse thinks he's sooo good at Monopoly, and then I go and beat him! (He's beaten me so many times before though)

Also, recently I've just finished reading the "Wild At Heart" book, and I would like to go through (or get him to read - highly unlikely) with Jesse, so I'll add that to my list of things to talk to him about. I'm also currently reading "A Heavenly Man" about Brother Yun from China. It is such an amazing story of modern day miracles and how God is really working in those countries to show them the truth. Like, it was only in the 1980's where he was been thrown in jail and beaten and tortured ... even in the 1990's! I really recommend that you read this book.

Anyway, God bless you!

_____________________________

~Joshua 1:9

I now have a blog: here

Come and join our new Christian RP forum!
Post #: 9
RE: The Ramblings of me: amymelissa - 8/1/2007 1:22:15 AM   
amymelissa


Posts: 2668
Joined: 8/15/2005
From: South Australia
Status: offline
I really love this song, and it is just so true how much God really does love us!

HOW DEEP THE FATHER’S LOVE

How deep the Father's love for us
How vast beyond all measure,
That He should give His only Son
To make a wretch His treasure.

How great the pain of searing loss –
The Father turns His face away,
As wounds which mar the Chosen One
Bring many sons to glory.

Behold the man upon a cross,
My sin upon His shoulders;
Ashamed, I hear my mocking voice
Call out among the scoffers.

It was my sin that held Him there
Until it was accomplished;
His dying breath has brought me life –
I know that it is finished.

I will not boast in anything,
No gifts, no power, no wisdom;
But I will boast in Jesus Christ,
His death and resurrection.

Why should I gain from His reward?
I cannot give an answer;
But this I know with all my heart –
His wounds have paid my ransom.


_____________________________

~Joshua 1:9

I now have a blog: here

Come and join our new Christian RP forum!
Post #: 10
RE: The Ramblings of me: amymelissa - 8/1/2007 4:28:23 AM   
amymelissa


Posts: 2668
Joined: 8/15/2005
From: South Australia
Status: offline
Oh my gosh! Three posts in one day! But I can't just not say something.

I HAVE A JOB!! I'm so excited! It's the interview that I went for this morning ... they rang and offered the job to me this afternoon! They wanted me to start tomorrow (as in Thursday) but I will start Friday. They want to get me used to the office while the boss is away (he gets back Monday)

Oh my gosh, my hands are still shaking! I have a job!!

Thank God for this wonderful opportunity!

_____________________________

~Joshua 1:9

I now have a blog: here

Come and join our new Christian RP forum!
Post #: 11
RE: The Ramblings of me: amymelissa - 8/4/2007 10:31:31 AM   
amymelissa


Posts: 2668
Joined: 8/15/2005
From: South Australia
Status: offline
Well, how do I start to describe such a turning point in my life? On Thursday, Mum and I went shopping for work clothes. We spent the best part of 5 hours in a shopping centre looking for and trying on clothes. In the end I think we spent close to $350, which is quite good considering that included shoes. I'm working at an Accounting firm, so I have to look nice.

And now ... the big day ... my very first day of my new job. It started OK; got up at 6.45, had a shower, dressed nicely, and dad had even made brekkie for me! I was just about ready to leave at 7.40. I went to brush my teeth and that's when I started coughing and I got sick (I get sick when I'm nervous) and I ended up leaving 10 minutes late to what I was planning ... consequently I got to work 10 minutes late. Luckily, the boss doesn't come back until Monday, and the manager seemed not to be too bothered that I was late. I called ahead to tell them I would be a bit late about 10 minutes before I got there. (I was sitting at the traffic lights ... nothing illegal about talking on my phone while driving). The drive in itself was quite good. I had never driven in peak-hour traffic before (only as a passenger) and I feel that I learned a lot by observation.

The day itself was kinda boring, but the people there are hilarious and I know I will get along with well. I and another lady did filing all day ... there was so much piled up. It was also my job to answer the phone. I finished at 5, drove home in peak-hour traffic (am getting used to it already), had tea and then went 10-pin bowling with my youth group! I get to meet my boss Monday morning for brekkie (7.30AM!! It means I have to leave home before 7!) and his AFL team just lost tonight so here's hoping he'll be in a good mood. (We go for the same team, so hopefully he'll be nice to me, but from what I've heard he's really cool)

Saturday ... well, I worked my other job at the chocolate factory ... twas fun! I'll have to quit soon, there's no way I can work 6 full days a week. It's sad, I really like working there.

Anywho ... tis just after midnight, I should best be off to bed. I won't be able to post much anymore, I reckon, with all this working. But I'll try my best to log on sometimes at night. (My night, that is ... your morning ... *sigh*)

God bless.

_____________________________

~Joshua 1:9

I now have a blog: here

Come and join our new Christian RP forum!
Post #: 12
RE: The Ramblings of me: amymelissa - 8/10/2007 5:19:14 AM   
amymelissa


Posts: 2668
Joined: 8/15/2005
From: South Australia
Status: offline
Well ... I have just finished my very first week of full-time work as a receptionist, and it was surprisingly fun!

As it is an accounting firm I thought it would be boring, and was skeptical about even going for the interview (as I think I mentioned in an earlier post.) But the people there are really nice and really fun to be with. Amber, the Personal Assistant to the boss, is the person I work closest with, and she is really helpful. I've learned so much in this week, and it's been tiring. I've learned all about the letters that have to go out, the different documents that have to go with the letters, how to read them, what they're for etc. And I've had to get used to answering the phones all the time and which clients belong to which companies, electronic lodging ... but I'm getting there. According to Nick (the boss) I'm much better than their last receptionist who only lasted a month. Apparently she could only do 1 letter in a day, and I get through about 8, so I'm pleased about that.

And driving in during peak hour is getting easier, which is always good. I've learned that I have to leave at 7.30 to get to work BY 8.30. Coming home usually takes longer, and I get home at 6.30, which is generally annoying, but one of the advantages I have by still living at home is that tea is ready for me when I walk in the door, which I am extremely grateful for.

On Tuesday night I had a chat with Jesse about the fact that we both felt we were drifting apart. We were driving to a friends house when he brought it up. (I had SMS'd him the night before and he'd actually thought about it that morning which I felt please about). And most of the things he pointed out were faults that I knew I had, but just didn't realise were the issue between us. He apologised for being so criticizing, but I needed it. It was a real wake-up call for me to grow up, so I'm very thankful to God that Jesse is able to speak his thoughts and be honest. On Wednesday night Jesse came over to go through the Bible study from CLW, but I just don't feel like it anymore, so instead I'm reading to him Wild At Heart by John Eldredge, which he is actually enjoying (even though I've only read the first chapter to him.) But I can feel it bringing us closer, which is the whole purpose of this exercise, so I hope that we can keep it up regularly, as he is quite a busy person.

Well, I'm off now. Hopefully I'll be able to post regularly, but inbetween work and sleep, there isn't a lot of time anymore.

God bless you all.

Amy.

[edited to add] One of the things I forgot to mention was about learning the names of our clients at work. They are all Greek (well, 90% anyway) and have such difficult names to spell and pronounce and some don't even speak very good English, which makes it even harder on the phone. But both Nick and the manager Effie speak fluent Greek so that helps thing a little. And it is quite strange sitting there listening to a conversation in which you cannot understand a single word. I have learned one Greek word though: Afendi (sp?) which means "Master" - Nick told his PA to call him that. Fun times.

< Message edited by amymelissa -- 8/10/2007 5:28:12 AM >


_____________________________

~Joshua 1:9

I now have a blog: here

Come and join our new Christian RP forum!
Post #: 13
RE: The Ramblings of me: amymelissa - 8/13/2007 7:56:29 AM   
amymelissa


Posts: 2668
Joined: 8/15/2005
From: South Australia
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Well, good evening everybody. What a weekend! I found out that I did not have to work at the chocolate factory on Saturday so on Friday I messaged a few friends to see if we could catch up Saturday as Jesse was going to a rally - not really my thing.

But anyway, I should start the weekend at Friday night! We had youth group (Jesse's - we go to different churches). It was a "girl's night". Nicole had organised a few games and then we had like a kind of fashion show. One person went into the kitchen where Nicole had brought clothes with and had 2 minutes to change into something, put on make-up and then come out and do some kind of pose. It was quite hilarious. Although, Jesse did go a little over the top (I chose to opt-out of this game). He was wearing a boob-tube as a skirt and had even stuffed other shirts down the front of his top (which I have myself!!). Strangely enough, I still love him ... (why! )

Saturday: Me and my friend Jemma went to the nearest Subway (20 minutes by car) just cos we wanted Subway. Then we decided that we'd go shopping, and I bought a couple head bands and a top to wear out that night. Then we went back to Kim's house and watched a couple movies. Both Hilary Duff movies (classic lame-ness) 'The Perfect Man' and 'Material Girls'.

Then that night I went out into the City for the first time. Andrew, Jac and Kez had invited me out to celebrate Andrew's 19th, and I had a blast! The first place we went to was kinda boring (Stag), but I had a blast at Church (yes, tis a nightclub). I knew but all of two of the songs all night, and I had soo much fun. Yes, I was drinking, but I could tell when enough was enough. I mind was fuzzy, but I could still think straight, walk (almost) straight and talk perfectly fine. Then we went to the casino cos Jac wanted to catch up with someone there, and Andrew remembered that they had free water, which was excellent, cos I needed some! I ended up getting home about 3.45am, which wasn't too bad. I am hoping to do it again, but not for a couple weeks at least. Still, was an awesome time. Actually, it got me thinking a bit ... I reckon I could feel God protecting me that night. I could hear this little voice in my mind saying ... that's enough, no more for you to drink, you need water now. It may just have been my conscience, but I'm pretty sure that's God. These random logical and safety-based thoughts kept popping into my mind throughout the night, and I knew God was looking out for me.

Sunday: I didn't do a lot. Me and Jesse finally met one of our good mates girlfriend for the first time (at a farewell party, which is quite ironic). One thing we both noticed is just how organised she is. Like, this was an organised informal gathering that was far more organised than my organised events (if that makes sense). She's also quite sophisticated and well spoken. I mean, my friend is like that too most of the time, but then you look at me and Jesse and we're such country bumpkins. (Kinda ... not really, but compared to her) Went to the youth service that night. The sermon was about materialism. I really really suck at that. I think we all suffer badly from materialism. It's just so easy to want and hoard earthly riches. The speaker showed the clip from the movie Ice Age in the special features about Scrat's adventure - I think it was called "Gone Nutty".

Had work today. The PA went home sick before 9am, and she really needed to. My boss was like, "hurry up and go home!" Was pretty busy all day, but the drive home was really easy, considering it was peak hour. I left work about 6 minutes later to normal but got home at the same time. The two major roads I go on were flowing very well.

Anyway, I'd best be off. I have to go and get ready for bed now.
God's blessings to you all.

Amy

=)

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Post #: 14
RE: The Ramblings of me: amymelissa - 8/18/2007 4:30:11 AM   
amymelissa


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From: South Australia
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Another week, another blog. I found out early in the week that we have a weekend seminar on the 25th and 26th of August, which really sucks. Not only will it mean I can't work at the chocolate factory on the Saturday, I won't have to Sunday off to rest and just chill out ... it also means I will be working 2 weeks without a break, and we're not getting paid for the seminar. And to top it off, to save travel time and myself from falling asleep at the wheel I've decided to stay at my cousin's house (which is actually my Aunty's house which she is house sitting) but it means I won't be able to see Jesse that whole weekend, except Sunday night at church, including the Friday night. It's bad enough that we rarely see each other during the week anyway. In fact, I mentioned this to him via email (our main form of communication at the moment) that if we don't make the effort to see each other more during the next two weeks we're both gonna be ... well, mainly me, as we both ride very different emotional roller coasters (his is for little kiddies ).

I should stop ranting and venting, you probably don't really need to hear about all of this.

Work is going fine, I'm quite enjoying it. I was slowly going insane from the silence so I took with about 200 songs on my flashdrive and have them playing throughout the day. I need to update it again though, 200 songs isn't a lot when you're listening 8 hours for 5 days. Actually, one thing that I've started doing again is writing during my lunch break. I have an hour, and I just finished The Lollypop Shoes (sequal to Chocolat) so I needed something to do, and I just felt like writing, it was soo good!

But right now I am just so tired! I've just worked 6 full days and I can't wait to go to bed tonight.

Well, I'll keep you updated later.
God bless,
Amy.

[edited to add] P.s. Look! I'm now a Super Member!!

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Post #: 15
RE: The Ramblings of me: amymelissa - 8/22/2007 8:12:09 AM   
amymelissa


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From: South Australia
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Well, tis Wednesday night, the middle of the week. I will not be able to post again until Wednesday next week, I'm thinking, so I thought I'd post a quick one now.

Let's see, Saturday night ... just before posting that blog I was home alone and so I watched the Matrix, then posted and then went to bed. I didn't even hear my family get home half an hour later! Sunday ... I pretty much did nothing in the morning and then after lunch went over to Jesse's for a while. His grandparents (dad's parents) came over, which was cool. I've met them a few times before, and they're very interesting people. They like traveling a lot, and have been over to Papau New Guinea various times for mission work. That night me and Jesse went to church, which was fun. They had a school chaplain doing the message, and it was about abseiling and trusting that small rope to hold your weight ... and that's how we need to trust God. God will hold us up, keep us from falling and won't ever break. I'm pretty sure I need to work on that in my life. I mean, while I do trust God has something great for me, I don't know how to (as my friend Kim loves to put it) "let go and let God".

Monday, work ... Tuesday, work and then cards at my friends house. Apparently it was my turn to buy snacks for everyone (I found out on the drive there) cos Jesse didn't have enough money to. Twas OK though, I'm a working girl now. Today, just work, and working out where me and Jesse are going to go with Scott and Robyn for dinner. The place Jesse wanted to go is closed Monday nights, so we're going to another restaurant they have in a different suburb.

On Tuesday I also found out the times for the seminar I've got on the weekend. 8 am - 5.30 pm (then straight to dinner at restaurant) on Saturday and 8 am - 11 am, 3 hour break, then 2 pm - 5 pm on the Sunday. During that break Jesse said he will drive into the City to come and meet me so I don't have to spend it by myself. Yay for loving boyfriends!

Well, I'd best be off and going to bed.

God bless you all in your week.

Amy

=)

_____________________________

~Joshua 1:9

I now have a blog: here

Come and join our new Christian RP forum!
Post #: 16
RE: The Ramblings of me: amymelissa - 8/29/2007 7:28:49 AM   
amymelissa


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From: South Australia
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Good evening everybody.

Well, what a tiring week so far. Tonight is my first night home where I've been able to sit down, relax and post since Thursday last week ... and it's now Wednesday night as I write this.

Well, being able to stay at my cousin's house was such a blessing. I was just a 5 minute drive from work for the seminar instead of a 45 minute one had I stayed at home. On the Friday night after work I took a tram into the city and met my cousin at the markets to buy food for dinner. When we got back to her place we took the dog for a walk, cooked dinner and ate while watching the movie Open Season, which was surprisingly funny. That night when I went to bed I slept so badly. It took me a while to get to sleep and then I woke up at about 5-5.30, lay in bed for a while, and got up a bit before 6.30 and threw up ... that was fun. I figured that I was up now and had my shower. I didn't eat much for breakfast, just a piece of toast. The seminar that day went well. The girls over from Perth were really friendly, but not really what I expected from hearing their voices on the phone. We all went out for dinner at a Greek restaurant that night and I literally said to one of the senior ladies at work "Just pick something out for me that is chicken and I'll have that" - I'm very indecisive, so that worked well. Dinner didn't go very late because everyone was exhausted so I was back at my cousin's house about quarter to nine. She had a couple friends over have a drink while watching "The Living Planet" - that was fun. Her friends were really nice.

On Sunday our plans all changed. Instead of having a three hour break in the middle of the day we went straight through and finished at 1.30. My boss bought us all lunch and then me and the Perth girls went shopping for a while before I drove to church and I saw Jesse for the first time since Wednesday. (In which we continued trying to read Wild at Heart but he was tired and fell asleep so I took him home) That night I slept well in my own bed at home, and I loved it.

Monday night Jesse and I finally went out for dinner with Scott and Robyn. It was a fun night. The restaurant we went to was really nice and had a great atmosphere and the staff were really friendly and cool. And it wasn't just because they are a client of Jesse's company and he was actually working there still when we got there. Although, we did get a little something on the house. Afterwards Jesse took me back to his place and we watched a few episodes of Scrubs, and I finally felt so much closer to him. We just lay there in each other's arms watching TV and that is one of the simple things that I really enjoy.

Tuesday (last night) we had cards night. I was the only girl there until about 9pm (we got there at 8) and all the boys were being anti-social and playing on the computer (even though they were playing multi-player games). Next week computers are being banned.

Tonight is my only night home this week. Tomorrow night I am going to see the musical production at my old high school. I've got a few friends in it so it will be good to catch up with them during the interval, and then on Friday I've got my youth group.

Anyways, I'm gonna go now, I'm actually getting sick of staring at the computer screen; I've done it for about 8 hours today.

God bless you all.

Amy.

=)

_____________________________

~Joshua 1:9

I now have a blog: here

Come and join our new Christian RP forum!
Post #: 17
RE: The Ramblings of me: amymelissa - 8/31/2007 5:18:35 AM   
amymelissa


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From: South Australia
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Well, my week is over. It is Friday and I am so glad!

Today our practice manager was on her first day of leave and my boss was still over in Perth, so the office was rather quiet and I didn't have much work at first to go on with. The whole day was rather relaxed and laid back. My boss only called the office 3 times (not bad considering the last couple days it has been 7 or 8) And on Fridays we all finish at 5 (normally 5.30) so right on 5pm we were all walking out the door.

Last night as I mentioned in my previous post, I was going to the musical production my old high school puts on every year. This year it was called O Romeo and was written by one of the teachers at the school. It was a spin-off of Romeo and Juliet, but it was absolutely hilarious! In the end, all of the characters were lying dead on the stage! I was able to catch up with my fellow band-geeks before hand, during the interval and afterwards, which was great cos I hadn't seen them since, like, March.

Tonight I've got youth group, which is called Global Village. It's a kind of simulation game. I'm not sure exactly how it works as I missed the similar one last year, but I heard that it was a lot of fun.

One last thing before I go, I would appreciate it if you would pray for me. All of this working is really tiring my out and hopefully this weekend will be a real blessing for me (if I can get out of my shift at the chocolate factory tomorrow). And for my relationship with Jesse, it's becoming so hard to find time to spend with him.

Also, in Australia, Fathers' Day is this Sunday, so keep dad's all over in your prayers.

God bless,
Amy.

=)

_____________________________

~Joshua 1:9

I now have a blog: here

Come and join our new Christian RP forum!
Post #: 18
RE: The Ramblings of me: amymelissa - 9/3/2007 7:15:01 AM   
amymelissa


Posts: 2668
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From: South Australia
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Good evening everybody out there in cyber-land!

Well, my weekend wasn't anything liked I planned. I found out about 15 minutes after I posted that I did have to work at the factory on Saturday. But I shall get to that later.

Youth Friday night was so much fun. The world was shrunk down to our youth group and we were each given different persona's. I was a poor Brazilian street kid with no money, no job and no home. The game was broken up into 10 minute rounds, and in each of those rounds we had to work, eat and drink (that was a must or else you would die and be out of the game) and as it cost money to buy food I was a little stumped. Luckily I got a food voucher for the first round and was able to find work and get bits of income in the other rounds to keep me alive. Jesse on the other hand, decided to take a different way of doing things. (It was the first time anyone had tried it) He able to earn and scrounge enough money to bribe the policeman into borrowing his gun and robbing one of the wealthy people. After being thrown in jail, he again bribed the policeman and was actually able to steal quite a bit of cash. He then proceeded to the casino and ended up being about $200,000 up (he started with about $100 before stealing a few thou) And then, to prevent the policeman taking his money back to put it all into shares and gave each of the poor people $1000 ... just as the game finished. I have to say, for someone earning $3 per round, having $200,000 in shares is quite an effort. All of his money was gotten through corruption and gambling though, so maybe that's not such a good thing.

All in all, it was a great night. After the game we watched a DVD about TEAR, a Christian organisation that helps developing countries and then I went home for a relatively early night.

Work on Saturday was tiring. I made it through the day, got home, changed, had tea and then went to band practice for Saturday night service. That didn't go very late (about 8pm we finished) and I was at Jesse's by about 8.20pm. We watched the movie Chicago (which is fantastic, by the way) and then about 5 episodes of Scrubs. It was so great being able to spend time with him, just lying there in his arms being together. I went home at midnight, posted for a bit on the forum and went to bed.

Sunday ... Fathers' Day. We didn't do much. We all gave our pressies to dad in the morning before church, and then in the afternoon we all (as in, my fam, and both sets of grandparents) met in a town about 40 minutes away for afternoon tea. Nanna gave us kids (me + 2 brothers) $5 each to spend at the lolly shop next to the cafe. Am loving the sugar rush. That night I had church, which was quite good.

I learnt a new word at church: Xenophobia - it is a fear of strangers. Yet it is these people that God encourages us to show hospitality and love to, and in doing so we may be unwittingly entertaining angels. (Hebrews 13:2)

Well, I had best be off. Things to do, sleep to be had.

God bless,
Amy.

=)

_____________________________

~Joshua 1:9

I now have a blog: here