Pray for Paris

Yesterday night, Paris was struck by acts of terrorism.  And the world watched, horrified.  The world is not only watching, but we stand ready to help.  These acts of terrorism are despicable, and no matter what part of the world you live in, if an act of terror is committed, it is committed against all of humanity.  The ruthless shedding of innocent life is sickening, and we should all continue to have Paris and the people of France in our prayers.

I pray that the Lord would watch and protect over all those who were involved.

"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?  The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?" (Psalm 27:1)

"Let your steadfast love comfort me according to your promise to your servant."  (Psalm 119:76)

The Soldier Who Loves

G. K. Chesterton once said,  "The true soldier fights not because he hates what is in front of him, but because he loves what is behind him."

A true soldier.. a soldier, who would rather die, than see those he loves hurt.  Today, I am thankful for a true soldier that I am proud to call my father.  Happy Birthday, Dad!  I couldn't have asked for a better role model and mentor than you.  You have given me so much wisdom, and raised me in the way of the Almight.  You've always encouraged to push myself, and to chase after wisdom.

"My son, do not despise the Lord's discipline or be weary of his reproof, for the Lord reproves him who he loves, as a father in a son whom he delights." (Proverbs 3:11-12)

You don't show favoritism, you aren't quick to anger, and you help us when we make silly mistakes.  I know that my siblings and I are in an unanimous agreement in that you are the best dad one could ask for.  You're fair and understanding, and you're an amazing example of what a father and husband should be.  And a great example of the One.  I am so thankful for everything you have done! 

I remember you telling me, quite a few years ago now, how amazing it would be to be able to get to Europe.  Well, we actually got to live there and have experienced a whole lot.  God sure knows how to throw in surprises and blessings when we least expect them.  I can't count all the adventures that we've been through!  And I'm glad I got to do it with the best dad in the world!  Happy birthday, Dad!

Seven Years of Adventure

Seven years of adventure.  Seven years of Bear.  Seven years that I couldn't imagine what it would have be like without, Solomon Barak Lopez.  We have had our petty differences and annoyances, but we're brothers, we will always be there for each other.  I can't believe that it's been seven years since you've been born, they've been quick.  We have had our adventures.  We've moved across continents and oceans.  We've lived on a island in the middle of the Pacific, and explored multiple countries in Europe while living in Germany..  It's been a whirlwind.  An adventure.

You're a ham.

Anyone need a model for a jean magazine?

Throwback to your sixth birthday at Playmobil Land.

Always exploring.

And we're back one year later.

AT & T bars

*insert a meaningful quote here*

Can you spot the Bear?

This photo makes me laugh.

Manly poses, yes?



This adventure we're having in Germany is coming to a close.. Next stop, El Paso, Texas.  We need Stetsons, bro.

"Kill the dragon, get the girl."

Happy Birthday, Bear!

New Year... Resolutions? Really?

The New Year has finally rolled around, and what is common about this time of the year?

Besides firecrackers, drinking sparkly juice, getting stomachaches from sweets, and staying up till 12.  Besides all of these, this is the time of resolutions.  But, do they really come into play?

People all over the world continually make resolutions to be physically fit, eat better, and work harder.  Yet, about two weeks into the New Year, right after Exams.  We are tired.  The brains, and muscles are screeching for spring break.  But, you still have the second Semester to fight through.  I know.  Captain Kill Joy over here.  How in the world are you going to keep up with all those resolutions? 

One way is to just start out easy, no need to be in a hurry.  Each month, pick up something new.  Don't try to rush through with all in one month.  You will swing and strike out quickly.  So, take it easy.

The other way is to lay it at the Lord's feet, still try to do the Monthly way, where you pick up gradually.  But before making your resolutions, examine yourself.  Pray.  Read His Word.  Ask the Majestic Creator of the Universe to reveal your flaws to you and ask for strength to grow in those areas.  Prostrate yourself before the Throne of God.

So, that is my meager advice to you.  Take it easy.  Exams take it out of you.  After you're done, take a walk and clear your head.  Get those brain cells a break, they probably have been whirring for a good while.

Don't Panic.
Pray.

Seventeen

I have been busy.  Wimpy I know.  Almost to wimpy.  But let me explain, basketball, school, online classes, basketball, food... And basketball.  Yes, it is just getting busier.  Yes, I just used the word busier.


 Micaiah.  Is.  Turning.  17.  This is a good excuse to post, no?  Anyway, I will sing her praises out more than a hippo burps.  Which, by the way, they do quite often.  So, I have alot to live up to.


17 moments or reasons that I am thankful for you:
1.  Although you can be the annoying older sister, I enjoy your dorkish ways.
2.  Cracking me up/poking me in the stomach when I am down.
3.  A memory: For taking my balloon at the age of 2.  And I still have turned out well.
4.  At Kodiak and NYLT you were always the embarrassing older sister.  But, ya know, you still are awesome.
5.  When we were mistaken for twins.  But now, that would be impossible.
6.  The three of us listening to Oddysee together.
7.   Coming and supporting me at my first basketball game..  And for sacrificing a babysitting job.  Such a wonderful sister.  (sarcasm, yes that is number eight.)
8.  For teaching me sarcasm.
9.  Ninja Bob.
10.Jason's Journey.
11.Allowing me to join Venture Crew. ;) 
12. Kodiak: When Patrick and you were mistaken for siblings.
13. For the tripping phase.  I am sorry that I didn't let that one go.  I mean, it was just so hilarious.
14. When we played spies in the basement in our house on Ash.
15. Having you come down and walk dogs with me.
16. You singing all night,"I am sixteen going on seventeen."
17. And the moment you have all been waiting for!!  *drum roll*  Gutterballs.

Don't ya just love this pic? haha

Oh, and.  HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MICAIAH!!!!!!