Finals Week

Let me just start off by saying that it has been a rough past few weeks. I'm sure every college student in the world right now is studying for finals and stressing about the possibility of failure. I know that I definitely fall into that category. My problem is that I stress to the max and anything that does not involve studying falls by the wayside. That includes, but is not limited to, makeup, hair, nail maintenance, eating proper meals, grocery shopping, and so much more.  I haven't even done laundry in over a month. I had to take my clothes home a couple weeks ago so that Mom could wash my clothes for me (thanks Mom!) because I just couldn't justify the "time it takes" to do laundry...even though the laundry room is literally right next to my bedroom. 

I'm telling you, all judgment is off during finals week. I definitely have had a couple of minor breakdowns in my room. And a couple more in the shower. And a couple more in my car driving home. And one at work. I don't think that I relieve my stress correctly...meaning I don't relieve it at all...I just let it pile up.  

While I was driving back to my hometown for the weekend, I just sat and talked to God. I told him about my worries, about my praises, I gave Him my thanks, I discussed and prayed over the family troubles I've had, and just had a conversation with our Lord unlike any conversation I've had with Him in way too long.  I finally had a realization that nothing is really  in my hands...it's all in His. As much as I would like to take control and let God take a backseat, I really have no power compared to his awesome, glorious, unwavering strength.  He has the power to heal me, to calm me, to make me feel relieved for the first time in weeks. 

Ever since our conversation I've had this sense of calmness. I've felt happier these past few days than I have all semester. I've relished in the little things in my life. I also came to a realization how much I take Lovebug for granted, and I don't let him know how much I truly appreciate how much he loves me and my family.  He'd do anything in the world for us and never asks for anything in return. Oh, how I love that man. I need to let him know how much he means to me more often. I think sometimes, especially being in a relationship for an extended amount of time, we can become complacent and not take the time to appreciate the little things we would do for each other. I'm going to start taking that time. 

Basically, I've realized I wouldn't be where I am today without the Lord's unending, pure, and faithful love. That revelation in and of itself has given me an entirely new perspective and refreshed me as a prepare for finals.  This weekend was the most eye-opening and enjoyable weekend I could've ever asked for. And to Him all the glory. Thank you, Lord! 

Have you ever had these eye opening moments? It's ah-mazing how opening your mind as well as your heart to the Lord can change your life in so many different ways! 

xoxo, 

M

"Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me." 

-Psalm 51:10-12 

This is what my days have looked like lately. Lots and lots of coffee and Lyla ignoring me for not paying her any attention. 

Also, I've been trying to lay off all the extra sugars in Starbucks' lattes and have been getting the light roast instead. I must say it's a difficult transition...but I don't hate it!