Wednesday, December 29, 2010

I'm Lindsey, I'm 18, and I'm moving to Australia... "Hi Lindsey..."

I thought about not even posting, because there is so muuuch to say. But so much I don't even know how to express. But here goes...

The countdown is now at 11. Eleven days until I say my final farewells and hop on the plane to Australia.
I am constantly reminded of all of the amazing blessings that have led up to this point... my family has had wonderful time together (including the game Settlers!), my friends have surprised me in more ways than one, and my church family has shown incredible love and support. I'm so thankful.

I don't intend to, but I find myself growing increasingly distant from people. At home I try to hide in my room, writing songs that can somehow convey what I'm feeling. At work I feel tired, and I am constantly writing TO DO lists in order not to forget anything. When I'm with friends I try to stay involved, when really I'm having constant dialogue in my mind. When asked if I'm excited, I almost don't know how to answer. Yes, I am excited. But it still does not feel real.

I've been dreaming, praying and hoping for this for 8 months and now that it's finally here, there's a sense of melancholy about it all. So many feelings, so many emotions...So much to say, and so much to process. So many things I can't figure out until I'm there. Which also makes me a little nervous! It will be culture shock to the max!

So please forgive me if I have acted distant, unattentive or stressed. I do wish to have meaningful time with everyone before leaving.


Farewell for today. May you be reminded of God's goodness, thankful for His promises, and attentive to His Spirit.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Walk On The Water

Sometimes I fear that I'll get to the terminal and refuse to get on the plane...


What in the world am I doing?! Then I realize all of the miracles that have already taken place, and I am confident that God is faithful. I guess it's just beginning to hit me. And I really am excited. Don't worry, I'm not doubting my decision! haha
Last night, my family had a girl over that had attended Hillsong for two years and it was great to have some more information about everything. In a way it was overwhelming, because although I know a little more, there will be so much to figure out once I get there. 


But I feel ready.... I think. 


You know the peace that it talks about in Philippians 4? (verse 8...And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.) I totally can sense that. I believe God is protecting me so much. And comforting me more than I know! And I think he's protecting my family too. Honestly, my family and I don't talk about it more than we have to. We go over details, but don't talk about how much we'll miss each other, etc. I try to think about the new things I'm going to experience and not the things I'm going to miss. 


Below are the lyrics to "Walk on the Water" by Britt Nicole. This song has been a huge blessing, and every time I listen to it, I instantly feel God rebuilding my faith.

You look around, staring back at you
Another wave of doubt, will it pull you under? You wonder
What if I'm overtaken? What if I never make it?
What if no one's there? Will You hear my prayer?

When you take that first step into the unknown
You know that He won't let you go

So what are you waiting for? What do you have to lose?
Your insecurities, they try to hold to you
But you know you're made for more, so don't be afraid to move
Your faith is all it takes, and you can walk on the water, too

So get out, and let your fear fall to the ground
No time to waste, don't wait, and don't you turn around and miss out
Everything you were made for, I know you're not sure
So you play it safe, you try to run away

If you take that first step into the unknown
He won't let you go

So what are you waiting for? What do you have to lose?
Your insecurities, they try to hold to you
But you know you're made for more, so don't be afraid to move
Your faith is all it takes, and you can walk on the water, too

Step out, even when it's storming
Step out, even when you're broken
Step out, even when your heart is telling you
Telling you to give up

Step out, when your hope is stolen
Step out, you can't see where you're going
You don't have to be afraid
So what are you waiting, what are you waiting for?

So what are you waiting for? What do you have to lose?
Your insecurities try to hold to you
You know you're made for more, so don't be afraid to move
Your faith is all it takes, and you can walk on the water
Walk on the water, too

Friday, December 10, 2010

One Minute At A Time

Yesterday marked the one month countdown until I leave. And as it quickly approaches, I feel as though there is so much to be done. Christmas gifts to be made or bought. Final coffee dates with friends and family. My room must be overhauled. Which will be no easy task... Packing all of my things into two 50 lb. suitcases. I'm getting a headache just thinking about it!

But in these 30 days, life continues to swirl around me. The lights of our tree sparkle, the monotony of work seems even more apparent. I'm in the process of planning my sermon for Sunday and although I am so excited, I feel as though there is sooo much I wish to say, but don't have enough time. Isn't that how we all feel? The common phrases, "So much to do, so little time," and "if only there were only more hours in the day..." make me feel guilty for not making the most of the time I do have.

In my eighteen years, I feel as though I haven't accomplished much. I feel so small. And yet God still chooses me. I've learned that instead of having a "change the world" outlook, I need a "change the environment" perspective. Not the environment as in global warming, but the environment as in everywhere I go. Every person I meet. Every minute. Every second.

I'm sure at one point or another, everyone has wished to be famous. To be able to make an impact on a huge scale. But often what happens is that once people receive the recognition, it becomes all about them. I do not wish to be famous. I wish to partner in making God famous.
This impact begins in our homes. It spreads to our schools, our workplace, our churches, our communities, our city... so on and so forth.

So in this hectic season, look for ways to love. Love without conditions. Give with an open heart. And see every moment as a gift. And as you do that... you will change the world.

Monday, December 6, 2010

My First "Big Girl" Christmas Party

As I navigated my way through the room of women I thought to myself, I do not even deserve this title. I have not been to college, I have not married, and I don't have children. And yet, I felt totally accepted. When you look at a woman, what do you see? I see faces, filled with color, brimming with life. Mouths with words of encouragement and significant stories. I see hands that are gentle and productive. I see eyes that  are filled with the thoughts of life. I hear laughter, that comes even when I know there are probably loads of laundry at home waiting to be done... When the dishes are piling up, and the Christmas tree needs to be decorated. But for a few hours, we escape. We join together. And we are simply women. We eat, we laugh, we sing. No sweeter sound than that of women from all ages, all personalities, all walks of life. I feel so blessed to have such women in my life. Valiant women, full of grace and sincerity. Bold women, choosing to live Spirit led lives. 
Someday I hope to be like them. To have joy in rough seasons. To comfort like only a woman can. To understand, without need for words. 

To the women of Gateway, you are what Proverbs 31 describes. Thank you. 
You mean more to me than I know how to express.
I look forward to the seasons to come. Learning from you, laughing with you, and loving you. 

I'm a girl with many moms, aunties, sisters and gramma's. It can't get much better than that. 

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

The Sparkle of Life

Emotions. "The sparkle of life." In this season, so much is going on, that I fear I am numb to the sparkle. Numb to feeling anything. Because if I were to feel anything, I would feel too much. I have no idea if that makes any sense... I was discussing this with friends the other day, and we talked about how quickly life is going on around us, and we don't have time to catch up or really realize the immense changes. 

As a girl... I want to cry, and giggle, and know that I know I'm doing the right thing. 
I want to feel the crisp air of autumn, and dance in the pouring rain. 

So I ask myself, when will I feel again? 
Maybe I'll begin to feel, when my family and friends are thousands of miles away. When I'm left to navigate through the next year having no one I know constantly encouraging me or keeping me accountable. I'm excited that it's just me and Jesus. I know that my reliance on Him will become so much greater. Because He is all I'll have. I'm not saying that I'm going to completely ignore everyone back in the States, it's just that in Australia, I'm going to have to grow up really fast. That is exciting. And scary too. What am I made of? What are my passions? How do I think of myself? It will no longer just be Lindsey Schaub, pastors kid, singer and ice cream scooper. The people I meet will know NOTHING about me. I can be whoever I want to be. And I just want to be me. But I'm still finding out who "me" is... 
And won't I always? 

So as I reflect on my life, take a moment to reflect on yours. Who did God create you to be. Y.O.U. Only you. What is it that makes you tick, that makes you get unimaginably excited? 

"The Greeks did not write obituaries. They simply asked one question... Were they passionate?"

So here's to being passionate. Even when I can't seem to feel. Sometimes you have to make a choice and then later your heart will catch on.

Thursday, November 25, 2010

May I be thankful everyday...

I've heard that as years go by, time seems to go faster. And I certainly agree. I think back to childhood when Christmas was so magical, when the crisp autumn air made Thanksgiving so wonderful. But you know what escapes time? Love. The love of a family. The love of friends. The love of Jesus. I wouldn't be able to tell you whether this years turkey tasted better than lasts. Because that doesn't really matter. What I remember is the hours of preperation I spend with my mom and sisters in the kitchen. The flour flying everywhere... the extra butter added to make everything just a little better...and worse for you! I remember that every year my family takes a walk around the park. And when we walk back into the house, the amazing aroma fills the air. I remember that my aunts sit for hours looking through ads for black friday shopping. And it makes me want to listen to "Black [and blue] Friday" by IV. And in this holiday season, I truly am thankful. I'm thankful that today, I had another opportunity to breathe. To see and to share. To love and to be loved. At the end of my life I don't want to look back and remember what shirt I wore for the Christmas picture... I want to remember the memories I share with the ones around me.

Just a few other things I'm thankful for...

My family-
Dad, the way you lead our family with humility and honor is amazing to me.  I respect you more than anyone else I know. Thank you for all of the daddy/daughter dates.  And even when I pretend that I don't, I always want to be your little princess.
Mom, I love that you and I have been able to be the only girls in the house. I love your consistancy. To know that you're talking to Jesus is so reassuring. I love that you're never fake. Thanks for giggling with me, for listening to me vent, and for always knowing just what to say. I hope to be like you when I "grow up."
Kate, I am constantly amazed by your compacity to love and cherish people for who they are. I love that I feel so comfortable talking to you. I'm glad that you're only an hour away...
Cris, Welcome to the family! You've been around for a while, but it's so cool that it's finally "official!" (If ya like it then ya shoulda put a ring on it...hahaha) I've always wanted a big brother. Thanks for filling those shoes. You do it perfectly.
Bec, My fearless, bold, and captivating sister... I love your passion for life. Your passion for people. Your passion for Jesus. I can't wait to see all that God has for you. Thank you for always encouraging me. And thanks for starting the journal/quote tradition. You have no idea how much it blesses me. I miss you. Like reallly bad.
Jon, You have incredible leadership skills on and off the field. I'm such a proud sister. And at times that may be embarassing, but I just want you to know I love you.
Dan, Dude, I love your meek spirit. Meek means strength under control. You have an incredible work ethic, and amazing wood working skills. I'm so proud of you. Thanks for letting me hug you.

To all my extended family: Thank you for being a part of my life. I wish I could name each one of you, but it would take forever! Just know I think and pray for you often, and I wish we could see one another more. I love you.

And Gramma Cheryl, I missed you today. As we worked in the kitchen and then gathered around the table you blessed us with, I was reminded of your fun and loving spirit. Then I peered to the cabinet and spotted my teacup. Thank you Gramma for all of the laughter and joy... and sewing lessons. Have I told you lately that I love YOU?

To my friends- The lyrics "A friends a friend forever, if the Lord's the Lord of them..." bring me comfort knowing that even while I'm away, we will stay close.
In no specific order...
Natalie, In the 483 days we've known eachother, there have been so many wonderful memories. I can't even express how grateful I am that you're my friend. You are my favorite person to sing with. I look forward to being old ladies together!
Ondi, Darlin, you constantly amaze me with your passionate love for Jesus and people. I love our chats. We always pick up right where we leave off.
Bekah, Over the years, we haven't spent much time together, but through letters, and random camping experiences, I've come to appreciate what an amazing person you are. You are unique and truly gifted in so many ways.
Allie, Oh the crazy times we have shared. When I look back I think "that was sooo high school..." But maybe that was just us... haha Thanks for being obsessed with the Jobros with me. I'm glad we're not anymore, but it was fun while it lasted!
Jordan, Thanks for your sense of humor. I'm glad you were voted "Classiest Male" for the yearbook. It's so true. Thanks for understanding my puns. And thanks for thinking I'm funny even when I say the punchline wrong.
Shelby, We haven't been friends long, but working with you is always a highlight of my week. Thanks for keeping me updated on the latest "Kinderisms" and such. I'm excited to do a TSwift jam session.

And to my friends that I didn't name, it's not because I love you less. Each one of you has had a significant impact on my life. I'm super duper thankful for you.

To my church family- We truly are a family, and I am who I am because of all of you.  Thank you for all of your support these past few months. It's almost as if I'm taking a pice of you with me to Australia.
Aren and Heather, thank you for pouring your lives into a bunch of crazy teenagers. Thank you for believing in me. You guys are the best examples of what it means to set a standard for Jesus.
Aaron Hartey, thanks for letting me keep singing even when it wasn't in the microphone. I'm so grateful to have someone that will not only lead us, but will teach us along the way.
Gateway girls- From our princess parties, to camps and retreats, it has been so fun to grow up with you. I love that we're able to laugh and cry together. I'm going to miss allllll of you.
Gateway guys- way to be incredible young men for the Kingdom. I can't wait to see all that God has in store for you. Continue falling in love with Jesus.

I'm also grateful that I have the opportunity to work. I love Coldstone and Kroc and have been so blessed with amazing bosses, managers, and coworkers.

And most importantly, Thank you Jesus. Without you I would be nothing. Thanks for your love and grace and provision. Help me to continue trusting you. I know I don't say it enough, but I LOVE YOU.

Okay, before I exceed the maximum amount of characters, I'm going to stop writing. I just want you all to know that I love and appreciate you. We have so much to be thankful for.
Praise God from whom all blessings flow.

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

You are now free to move about the cabin...

Passport - check.

Application- check.

Acceptance Letter- check.

Student Visa- check.

Accomodation Papers- check.

Flight- check.

WOAH...
This is unreal. And I can't really feel anything. Life goes on as normal... my room is cluttered with laundry, my friends and I find crazy things to do, and I'm continually drawn back to the shiny black and white keys to fill my room with noise.

Everyday God brings surprises my way. And His timing is always better than mine. Confusing, maybe... but better ;)

Quote of the day


"I always knew that when I looked back on the times I cried I would smile. But I never knew that when I looked back on the times I smiled I would cry. One day at a time, this is enough. Don't look back and grieve over the past for it is gone. Do not be troubled about the future, for it has yet to come. Live in the present and make it so beautiful that it will be worth remembering."

Monday, November 8, 2010

Blessings

As I sit in a cold room, with my "Dream" blanket wrapped tightly around me, I'm overwhelmed with a sense of belonging. And as "Never Grow Up" rings quietly in the backround, I can barely contain each tear that spills onto my cheeks. 64 days until I must say "see ya later..." But I've decided that instead of talking about leaving, I'm going to cherish every moment I'm still here. There are so many things to figure out still, but I'm trusting Jesus every step of the way.

To everyone that came to Coldstone, thank you so much for supporting me. My dad and Pastor Aren were quite the entertainment! I feel so blessed to have friends and family that believe in me.

I can't wait to sit down and write about all of the miracles that have happened along the way! God is so faithful.

Remember that you are loved.

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

75 Days


And so it begins…

 Maybe it’s just me, but I’ve always wondered why it is that people begin asking the question “what are you doing with your life?” far before you even know the answer. Not that I’m upset. It’s just like… as soon as you become a junior in high school, everyone automatically asks the one question every 17-year-old dreads… “So… do you know where you’re going to college?” And in my mind I’m thinking, “I don’t even remember what I had for breakfast.” I cried the day our school counselors put us in a room and described FAFSA, SAT,401 K, ya know… all those things. :)

 When it came to my college decision, I was hoping for some miraculous sign from the Lord. I put way too much pressure on myself to choose the “right” thing; to follow my sister’s footsteps, all the while, creating my own path. To go where I know I will get equipped, but somewhere affordable. Etc. Etc. I really began to feel that no matter what my decision… God would use it. God would be there. And who has a time limit on school anyways? So halfway through my Senior year, I filled out applications and waited patiently on the results. I had already googled each dorm and found the nearest gas station, grocery store, and Costco, so it seemed as though I was set to go. But then, an amazing thing happened. I was standing in a middle school gym (doubles as a youth room on Sundays!) and one of the wisest, most Godly man I know comes up to me and inquires on my college decision. I go on to tell him I’m still not for sure, and he tells me to consider Hillsong. I had thought about it before, but never dreamed that it could be for a season so soon after graduating high school. He kindly says, “pray about it…” and walks away. I immediately bombard the Internet for information on Hillsong International Leadership College. A few weeks later, I got my passport and sent my application in. (Which was a step of faith in itself because it was a $200 non-refundable application fee!) Wowza… It was only 2 weeks later that I got the email saying “Congratulations Lindsey… We’d love to have you at HILC.”

Oh my goodness. Then I had to decide. I felt God say to me “Lindsey, I didn’t call you to do what is easy, I ask you to obey…
“Umm okay God… but you know that means a lot of money, right?”
“Trust me.”
“Well, you know that means I’ll be away from my family and friends for a year, right?”
“Trust me.”
Trust me, trust me, trust me is what I’ve been hearing for the past few months.
And I can assure you; it’s easier said than done. But God is faithful!

There have been many times when I think there is no possible way I can make it, but I’m always encouraged by Romans 4:20-21. Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, 21being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. This is all so exciting!

The paper chain in my room only contains 75 more rings. 75 days until I leave. 75 days until I hug my family and friends for the last time for a long time. 75 days to make as many memories as possible while I’m still here. And at the end of those 75 days, it’s just the beginning of something so new and wonderful.