Update

I apologize for not posting much lately, I've been extremely sick with what started as an allergic reaction and turned into the flu, but it seems we're on the upside now!

Well I officially have less than 3 months until I graduate. Hallelujah!

Had a lovely chat with my best friend, who was my roommate in college. It was so nice to catch up and encourage each other. Actually, it was David who first prophesied that her and her now-husband would get married. hahaha I remember the three of us sitting in the Joust freshman year, and he just blurted it out. Tristen and I just stared at him wide-eyed as if to say, "Where on earth did that come from?" Sure enough, Tristen and Brandon were wed the end of their Junior year. :)

Speaking of David, I'm proud to announce that the US Army has approved David's burial in Arlington National Cemetery. I got chills when I read that! Although the circumstances aren't quite what we would choose, I'm proud that he is being so highly honored as he should be.

To all of you who signed the petition to keep licensure for Cosmetologists/Barbers in the state of Indiana, THANK YOU! Our voices were heard and we did it! This is what was reported on the bill:

Rep. David Wolkins killed HB1006 Wednesday, January 25th. He cited the outcry against the bill by the cosmetology industry. For all who signed, wrote their representatives, attended the hearing and the rally: THANK YOU. We all had a hand in making this happen.

This also makes it less likely that any other state will attempt to pass such a bill. Thanks again for helping to make a difference! :)

So I've had many-a-request to supply a reading list of recommended books. I believe that will be my next post. In case you were unaware, next to writing, I LOVE reading. It's an addiction, really. If I have any dream room some day, it would look a little something like this:

Or this:

So to ensure I leave you with something, I have Slow Cooker recipes! My in-laws were so gracious to give us a Crock-pot (well, two, actually. It came with a little mini one!) for Christmas so I found some recipes for us to try out. Here are a few websites for all your Crock-pot needs!

The Crockin' Girls

A Year of Slow Cooking

Healthy Crock-Pot Recipes

PunchFork Slow Cooker Recipes

Enjoy!

Celebrating a True Hero Part 2

KY3 has posted a video on David's first memorial service at school. I cannot express how much it breaks my heart to see my friends and professors mourning the loss of our friend...I only wish I were there to mourn and remember with them.

Yesterday I was coming out of Sam's Club and there was a table set up taking donations for our troops. I stopped for a moment and donated...and I couldn't hold back the tears, thinking of my brave friend. Now I've been given a flag that I'm flying in honor of David, and all the other service men and woman past, present, and future. 

I'm so proud of the people that sacrifice themselves for our freedom. Our freedom that we take for granted so often. I'm proud of the families and friends who show continuing support, as well. It makes me think of the time I visited Arlington Cemetery. If you've never been there, you must make a trip. It will change your perspective on many things.

The following are videos of Evangel's memorial service and a Wreath laying service in David's hometown. It is incredible how many lives this one person impacted. Like I stated before, he didn't just fight for his country, but he fought for his God. He was one of the most friendly people I knew, and he lived every moment of his life to the fullest.

Evangel University 1st Memorial Service

Mayville Wreath-laying Ceremony:

Celebrating a True Hero

Yesterday, my college friend First Lt. David Johnson, was killed in action over in Afghanistan. Although I am deeply saddened and still a bit shocked by this news, I am so proud of him. Not only did he fight valiantly for his country, but he always fought courageously for his heavenly kingdom. 

You will be missed while we're still here on earth, but because of the hope we have in Christ, we will see you again. And we know that heaven has welcomed home a real hero. It seems like only yesterday we were all chatting on Evangel campus between classes and chapel. Miss you, David! 

“It is good to remind ourselves that the freedom we enjoy isn’t free. It has cost many families a great deal—and it has cost some everything. Our veterans, reservists, active duty military personnel and military families deserve our thanks.” - Evangel Campus Pastor John Plake

You may read the article/announcement here.


First memorial service at Evangel Chapel here and here.

David’s civilian and military education includes a Bachelor of Science degree from Evangel University (2010), Infantry Basic Officer Leadership Course (2011), Combatives level 1 and 2 (2011), and the Stryker Brigade Combat Team Leaders Course (2011).

His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Bronze Service Star, Global War on Terror Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge and the Overseas Service Bar.