Carolyn's Journey of Faith

Feels Like Starting Over

2010-07-10T11:39:00.024-05:00

It also feels like I have just begun. :)

I finally have what I've been needing- time.

Time to breathe.

Time to recollect my thoughts and reconnect with my heart.

Time to be with family and friends.

Time to meet new people and let go of whatever was holding me back from doing that.

Time to . . .

write

play

explore

brainstorm

I feel like I am living an undiscovered life. One where I'm not working all the time and instead pushing toward the life I want.

And it's hard.

Uncertainty clouds my joy at times, but He is with me.

I wonder if this is all crazy - quitting my job and redesigning the ground rules of my life- and already know that it is.

But

It all feels worth it.

I'll have no regrets.

Music and videos can be viewed on my YouTube channel here

Floods

2010-05-04T09:36:00.011-05:00

Who would have thought? And where to begin?
(I'm fine and had no damage.)

Unbelievable.

Nashville is under water.

Today is Tuesday and it is a beautiful day. Such a testimony that His mercies are new each morning. Yet such a temptation for me to forget that there are people whose business will close as a result of this past weekend's severe storms, or have to start over- losing precious memories along with common day comforts. Nashville is coming together to provide needed supplies for displaced people and starting the process of cleaning up and assessing damages.

My camera phone pics.

These first two pictures are of a golf course!

Next three pictures are from Hermitage- down the street from where my friend Rebecca lives.

These last two pictures were taken 1/2 mile from my apartment.

This video is of local footage around where I live.
More Pictures

Faith

2010-04-20T15:43:00.007-05:00

Break through . . .

I have walked through this last month a bit dazed. Was hope on the horizon or another hill to climb?

People have been asking me questions that I just don't have the answers to. But I have one now. :)

My friend Julie has offered me a place to live, rent free. I know . . . crazy cool, right? This act of generosity has restored my waning confidence in this new chapter of life.

A friend of mine writes a blog and a recent post felt like my life.

(You should go back and read it.)

Church has felt like an obligation and frankly, pretty boring. I am not involved in a Bible study currently and have felt so far away from God's Word. I wish I could say this was a recent development. But then came church on Sunday.

Unexplainable comfort.
Passion.
Rescued.

The message was called "Learning to Swim." I linked to it so I could share with you the encouragement I received. He met me right where I was, when I couldn't take anymore, with words that spoke clearly to my heart.

I pray the same comfort and passion over you and a soft landing in His arms as you take your leap of faith.

Gross Yet Amazing

2010-04-15T09:17:00.001-05:00

Kids, I tell ya!

Musicians- How I love them :)

2010-03-13T14:42:00.000-06:00

Love Teaching Kiddos

2010-02-23T14:51:00.036-06:00

THEY

ARE

FUN

Taking Care of Business

2010-02-15T11:19:00.000-06:00

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Today is all about loose ends and catching up.

Budgeting
Financial planning Appointment and subsequent To-Do list
Email updates
Looking into subbing for next year
Watching the snow fall while at Barnes and Nobel
Facebook - why exactly are people on so much?
Thinking about lunch - leftovers, I'm pretty sure
Letting the "shoulds" roll around in my mind.

I love not working. Perhaps I will write. :)

Clock Making

2010-02-03T11:36:00.003-06:00

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Okay, more like vinyl decal art work. :) This was so much fun and added a neat unique kick to my room. I know I am leaving in a couple of months, but it still felt worth it. :) I think I will put up some vinyl quotes in my classroom next. Who knew I would be so into vinyl?

Step One- takes the most amount of time and precision. I am so not a detail person!

Step 2- rub-a-dub-dub

Step 3- Repeat process

Step 4- attach clock piece. Ahh,sweet success. :)

Here is the latest blog from Haiti for the APparent Project

2010-01-17T15:12:00.000-06:00

http://apparentproject.blogspot.com/

If you can help . . .

2010-01-17T15:07:00.001-06:00

This is from a good friend of mine:

Our friends, the Clays, run and orphanage and other ministries in Port Au Prince, Haiti. Please pray for Corrigan & Shelley, their family and the orphans and kids they lead. They came through the earthquake alive but their buildings are not safe to return to. Last night they slept on the street and have reported that t...he conditions where they live are very bad.

If you want to get involved with helping in Haiti I can think of no better people to support than people who are on-the-ground with the orphans and poor already. Check out their web site at

http://apparentproject.org/

Thanks for spreading the word and helping out!

Snow Day(s)

2010-01-10T17:04:00.014-06:00

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What a long absence from blogging. I think I was so frustrated with work that I stopped taking the time to capture the FUN and sweet moments. No more!

Snow Days

Let's talk about the glorious unexpected, unearned, and perfectly indulgent gift that is a snow day.

I am unashamed to say that I slept peacefully for most of the first one. Nowhere to be. A day without lesson plans or convincing a student to care about inner and outer planets.

Just a slender covering of white and the peace that comes and whispers, "Take this day. Rest." So I did. I made biscuits . . .It was very domestic of me.

Smudge loves the snow and continued begging to go outside.
She looked frosty out there. I made her come in shortly after.

Work returns tomorrow, Monday, but I am re-created and ready. As it should be. :)

I Can Die Happy

2009-11-10T18:34:00.001-06:00

Sam is only 4, which makes him a baby. :) I was supposed to just trot over the ground poles, but he had other ideas. :)

He is the cutest horse! And totally worth the half mile hike to get him and bring him back. I actually have to park my car in front of his pasture just to save time. I am racing the dark. I never thought I would say this, but "boo daylight savings!"

Today I got my Principal's permission to skip out on the staff meeting and I was running out the door with the kids. You should have seen me be all like, "Peace out!"

Meet Sam's mom, Leslie.

(They should have won that costume contest. I mean Ga-linda and Elphaba from Wicked?
Sam dressed like a girl, a fairy even!)

OK, so here they are in their street clothes.

She found him 2 years ago. She says she made the purchase with her heart because he was a "skinny, ugly red mule." Sam's mom also spoils him, giving him many extra munchies. He tries to get me to do the same, but I am mean. I only gave him 3 today. While I was putting up his halter after dropping him off in the pasture, he walked right up behind me. He wasn't about to let me go. Here was this big lug of a horse begging- in the most refined way, of course.

Did I mention how dirty he was? Apparently after Sunday's lesson he got a bath. He wasn't quite dry and then rolled all around the dirt. They actually have a special tool to get off that thick of mud. I always wondered what it was for. :)

I couldn't ask for more. I love it.

Thanks for sharing my joy, friends!

I pray the same for you. :)

Meet Sam!

2009-11-08T09:22:00.003-06:00

I signed the lease yesterday! More to come!
Thank you, Father, for touching my heart. :)

Halloween

2009-10-30T19:07:00.007-05:00

I had a great time with my last minute costume, thanks to Mary Carol, one of the teachers I team with.

Professor Trelawney is right up my ally, I think. So much for trying to be cool! :)

Each your heart out, Emma Thompson! :)

Home room class. These are just the kids who dressed up like their favorite "book" character. The ones dressed in plain clothing were themselves from their own autobiographies. Smart, huh? I have more kids than this, so don't get any ideas of perfect class size!

Violet Beauregaurde! Rachel Smith is a fun teacher!!

Are words even necessary?

This kiddo's costume and accompanying attitude was awesome!

Happy Halloween!

Colorado

2009-10-15T16:43:00.002-05:00

I went to Colorado Springs for a music conference. One huge motivating factor was that Kathy was going to drive 2 1/2 hours to come see me! Val flew in for the weekend to top it all off. We hung out at Chili's for hours and I loved every minute! It had been way too long since I had seen you, Kath!! So glad we blog and talk on the phone. :)

I hope that Val will put up her picture of us in Denver. There's a story there. :)

Home Again

2009-10-15T16:18:00.005-05:00

Me and Grandma

Sara and Mom

Darren!

The almost 20 year old, coryn

Dad

Cole

Super technological kiddo

McDonald's Day. I picked them up from school and took them to get lunch and see some horses!

I love that this horse is sticking out his tongue. What personality!

They had a blast. I might have had a little more fun then they did.

What a horse looks like from Cole's perspective. He took this picture. :)

I wouldn't trade anything for the solid time I had at home. I got to go to church and hug friends dear to me. I hung out with my grandmother and family. I saw friends. Work went on without me. :) Love it.

Monday

2009-09-07T23:10:00.005-05:00

Treva played the pre-show of Shakespeare in the Park at Centennial Park in Nashville.
AWESOME.

She even played the new one we wrote called, "Live a Little." Can't wait for you to hear it!

She is onstage with Rachel Pearl and Hitoshi. Both very talented musicians and artists!

Shakespeare in the Park

The Abridged version! These three talented actors did a hilarious comical take on the entire works of Shakespeare in 2 hours. I laughed LOUDLY and OFTEN. Belly laughs. The kind you get embarrassed about. :)

If you were here, you could have been on a blanket with me, eating a delicious picnic, and enjoying great comedy under the stars on a school night.

What can I say? I'm a rebel.

Sunday

2009-09-07T15:46:00.008-05:00

This is Jag. He makes me happy. :)

Even though I am sore today, he is well worth the effort.

Notice the forward happy ear when I am kissing him. :)

Notice the unhappy ears before I kiss him.

Don't notice his unhappy ears in this picture. At least I'm smiling.
He has great 80' s hair bangs. . .

Southern Promise Farm

The Barn

Palomino- also known as The Golden Horse
and Carolyn's favorite

Another beautiful view at Southern Promise Farm.

This is Bandit. One of the many friendly dogs at the barn. He actually follows along for rides. How cute is that? I'm not even that much of a dog person.
I think I could be if he loved horses, too.

Tennessee is stunning beautiful. . .
You should come visit! :)
Me, in fact.

It's Another Saturday Night . . .

2009-09-05T22:45:00.001-05:00

Is it weird that I actually had fun grading a big chunk of those notebooks while WALL-E played on the big screen of my classroom?

Don't feel too bad for me. I had a massage earlier today and wrote a fun song with a great friend. :)

I'm going home. It's 10:45 pm. I'll put it on my bill. :)

Ode to the Jacks'

2009-08-23T19:55:00.004-05:00

I now enjoy the look and feel of my classroom.

Why?

About a week before school started Joel and Karen Jacks came to help me in my classroom. You know, moving desks and cleaning the dust that settles when children aren't present.

Did I mention that Karen was on vacation? Joel was doing the songwriter thing out here in Nashville. (He's great by the way.)

Upon walking into my classroom and seeing the prison gray walls, Karen looked lost in thought.

"I want to paint."

"WHAT?"

"I want to paint. This room."

The rest was a flurry of motion running through Target, Lowes, and Wallmart. Six hours and several repeat listenings of Jordan Sparks entire CD later (Battlefield! Battlefield! Battlefield!) they had given me a beautiful, warmly inviting classroom.

I love their servant hearts and ability to not just IMAGINE, but bring it to fruition.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Thank.

You.

:)

TN was beautiful today

2009-08-11T22:58:00.003-05:00

Photos are in!

2009-07-28T11:17:00.002-05:00

Thank you Rachel! Kirkland Professional Studios

You can see them all by checking out myspace. Just click on albums :)

AR stands for Arkansas

2009-07-20T17:16:00.013-05:00

Once I made the plan to road trip it to Texas, I quickly realized that I would be able to visit my dear friend, Treva in Conway, AR. TREVA Treva's Music

She was a gracious hostess and we had a blast hanging out, writing a new song, watching Flight of the Concords, and making delicious food in her fabulous kitchen. We went to church on Sunday in a room above an Italian restaurant - a first for me - that was located in, I kid you not, Toad Suck Square. Did I mention that Conway, AR is the home of Kris Allen?! All the signs around town will quickly acquaint you with that fact. :)

For the camera

For real :)

Delicious Pancake Breakfast. I have discovered how much I enjoy coffee with Creme Brulee creamer. Ummmm.

Can you guess the secret ingredient in this cake recipe?

He was the only single guy there . . .

Josh, Treva's husband, teaching the guys the ropes.

Winston doing the dishes.

Josh looking cool with his genuine Cuban cigar. He is a geologist and spent a lot of time teaching me about the earth and answering my questions. We even went on a little field trip. :)

Deep in the Heart of Texas

2009-07-20T16:32:00.006-05:00

This past week I ventured on my own to Hutto, TX to visit my best friend, Rachel, and her boys. It was so much fun! I was inducted very quickly into the life of a full time mommy and was so impressed with the way Rachel had it organized. Her energy and sweetness with her children blew me away. I literally had to take a nap one day while mommy of two, wife to Ian, professional photographer, house manager, meal maker KEPT GOING.

One thing that I am not thankful for is a new addiction. The Bachelorette. Poor Reed. :( Rach and Ian let me crash their date night and we all watched it together. Our Mormon moment. ;)

Highlights:
Photo shoot - pics TBA
Feeding Joaquin a bottle and involuntary tears came to my eyes
Playing with Elijah and becoming his buddy
Dairy Queen Blizzard!
Shopping in downtown Austin
Deep heart talks with Rach
Candlelight dinner- making the everyday something to celebrate
Holding kiddos
Learning so much about motherhood
Seeing Sarah

Rachel,
You teach me about love and Grace with your friendship and inviting me into your life. I love you, girl!

Looking Back

2009-07-03T16:42:00.002-05:00

Dear Friends and Family,

A year ago yesterday I arrived with Krissy with my U-haul in tow to Nashville, TN. One whole year ago. 365 days. 525, 600 minutes as the famous musical has ingrained in our brains. You also mark that time by events in your own lives. It's so interesting see time in fast forward as we look back. There has been movement. :)

* I moved here without a job. I begin my second year at Crockett Elementary school in August.
* I have moved two times and now have a roommate.
* I struggled with finances and a paycut. I will be debt free by August. (Thank you Dave Ramsey)
* I have a wonderful companion cat named Smudge who is patient while i figure things out. She has comforted my tears and snuggled on cold nights.
* I have a church that challenges me in good ways
* I have met Chris Tomlin, Brandon Heath and Sarah Buxton :) Other industry peeps, too.
* I have been knocked around and turned down but I am still here (That's how the meeting turned out with the AR guy by the way.)
* I went home to CA 4 times! What can I say, I miss you guys!
* Val came to visit . . . twice!
* I am learning what it means to have an authentic and immovable faith. Pain required. Questions unanswered. Surrender.
* Making new friends takes time. Who would have thought?!
* Went to Durango songwriter's expo. Going to GMA Immerse event end of July.
* Wrote and recorded some music. I really like "Alive" and "You" www.myspace.com/carolynrosemiller
* No cuts yet, guys. :) But who knows what next year holds.

Love to all,
Carolyn

PS Send along your year in review. Love to hear!
PPS Thanks for praying. I have been strengthened and deeply encouraged by them!

Thought I'd Share

2009-06-17T16:23:00.005-05:00

P.S. This picture is not anyone I know! :)

Dear Fellowship Family,

I heard a story once about a guy who was wearing one of those big Panama straw hats. A stranger saw him and asked where he had gotten it, adding that he had always wanted a hat like that. The owner of the hat (let's call him Jim) promptly removed the hat saying, "Here, take it, it's yours." The stranger (let's call him Bob) went into the typical stammering and stuttering saying "Oh no! I didn't mean I wanted YOURS! I was just curious as to where you purchased it since I've always thought I would like one."

Jim was relentless in his generosity and after a few rounds of "Here, take it!," and "Oh no, I just couldn't," finally said, "Look, I'd love to give you this hat but the only way it can be yours is if you are willing to just take it." Finally Bob could no longer resist, but with his hand on the brim and his voice low said, "OK, but I'd really rather pay for it."

I know it's sort of goofy, but that story had a huge impact on me. It helped to expose the lie in my life that kept me believing that, eventually, I could do enough, work enough, behave enough to earn this gift of grace. That surely there must be a role for me to play in deserving my own redemption. And of course, the harder I tried, the more I labored, the more shame I felt that it was never enough. And sure enough, it never was, nor would it ever have been. As Frederick Buechner named it, God brought me to my own "magnificent defeat."

While reading the last few verses of 1st Thessalonians 5, the truth about this was brought home when Paul sort of settled the argument in verse 24 with the statement "Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass." Wow. Paul doesn't leave much room for us in there does he? It's Him. It's ALL Him. I'm SO grateful the verse doesn't read "... and you must bring it to pass," or your pastor must, or your spouse, or anybody else on earth. He started this good work, and He's absolutely committed to its completion (Phil. 1:6). Even for those of us who'd really rather pay for it.

So now we live between the beginnings and completions of our own faith stories. In process? Yep. Messy? Big time. Imperfect? You think?! But the Spirit is at work in us, bringing life to this truth, and the only reaction left to us is... response. With humility and gratitude, we respond in love, in service, in worship, in good works, in giving our lives away. Not because we'd really rather pay for it, but because He already did.

Taking the hat,

John Mays
Elder

Dinner with a True Gentleman

2009-06-17T09:39:00.003-05:00

Ron Phillips is our musical patron. :) He has a remarkable carreer at Pepperdine University and is wonderful Christian man. He also writes lyrics. He came to Nashville to visit Dee and meet those of us who have sang a demo for him. He took us out to dinner and we had a lovely time. He is someone I would want to just sit next to and soak up his wisdom and character.

We ate at Urban Flats in the Gulch. Doesn't is sound trendy? Ever had macadamian nut hummus? Me either!

Left to Right: Ron, Myself, Melissa, Dee, and Jason.

Below: Melissa and her husband, Tony. He is a remarkable photographer. If you have seen an REI catalog, you have seen his work. Propels off cliffs while taking pictures and all that. . .

Pinch Me!

2009-06-14T00:04:00.005-05:00

Friday morning I received the most unexpected call. "Would you like to sing in a choir for Chris Tomlin's Christmas album?"

It was an inspiring experience. Chris Tomlin lead us in worship for three hours. He was so authentic and eager to praise God. Matt Redman and Christy Nockels were there. I was singing next to Matt Wertz and Brandon Heath. But let me tell you what my take away was: They loved God. A lot.

Brandon Heath. He bent down to take this picture.

Chris Tomlin. He didn't :)

Christy Nockels. Have you heard her voice?! Sweet music to my ears.

A Great Show and a Good Time

2009-06-05T00:10:00.009-05:00

My dear friend Treva is in town for a bit and I got to see her play tonight. She was absolutely amazing!

After the show. Isn't she pretty?! :)

This is my favorite pic I took of her.

UP Can Be Down

2009-05-31T21:43:00.003-05:00

If you are like me, then you were really excited to see the new Disney/Pixar Movie, Up. I took the three children I am babysitting to see it today. I believe that it is rated PG for a reason. There are some heavy topics that the film introduces and harsh moments that jarred this Disney fan. The rest of the day was an emotional rollarcoaster with these kids, all processing what they had seen. Granted a bit of missing their parents must have been involved, but I really think the film affected them in an adverse way.

I did like the film, I just wish I had seen it with friends instead of impressionable children. Who would have thought I would be critizing Disney?

Am I just blaming Hollywood for my bad day?

Adventures in Babysitting

2009-05-30T21:14:00.002-05:00

I have introduced these kids to blogging. They are pretty much addicted! :) It is a fun way to keep their parents up-to-date.

www.thenovaknews.blogspot.com

This link will self-destruct after Tues.

My Time Off So Far

2009-05-27T12:06:00.008-05:00

Highlights:

Rachel had her second beautiful, healthy baby boy yesterday, 5/26!
Knotting Hill, Made of Honor, Stardust, Fun with Dick and Jane, August Rush, Pride and Prejudice
Time for lunches
Working out at the cabana while watching GAC, working on the "craft" :)
Getting acquainted with Facebook, Picnik, Twitter
Library :)
Massage (thank you room 3!)
Pedicure (sometime soon thanks to a kiddo in my class)
Going out and seeing music!
Writing songs
Meeting new people
Summer thunder storms
A rainbow
Getting to know my new roommate
My new pink pilates ball
Diet coke

Space Center in AL: A Fieldtrip Odyssey

2009-05-17T09:45:00.001-05:00

Redacted

2009-05-08T12:18:00.000-05:00

:( I was back at school by Wed.

School Closed. Swine Flu!

2009-05-04T21:43:00.000-05:00

That's right, we caught the bug. Good news is I don't return to work until the 12th of May. More good news is I still get out May 22nd, kids last day being the 21st. Now, I do have a huge to do list school wise that I will still have to do this week BUT . . .

I want to hear from you. What would you do with an unexpected 7 days off work?

Home

2009-04-15T11:54:00.001-05:00

Ha Ha Ha! Awwww . . . and sigh moments

Awwww and sigh.

Coryn greeted me at the door with a plate that had brownies, a rose, and a lit candle. She also made me a killer CD. (Did I leave that in your car, Ren?) Doesn't get better than that. She makes some seriously awesome brownies! Isn't she pretty?!

Definitely a Sigh moment- the Beach and In N Out

Sigh . . .

awww and sigh
Visiting Grandma. This is a picture of her and Grandpa after their wedding.

Awwww and Ha ha ha. He tore off the heads of the little chicks.

All of the above.

Love her!

My mom is fun and beautiful! What a combo!

What a sport. Coryn licked those, yes licked, and put them on his glasses. The baby gets away with everything! Spoken like a true middle child.

Oh California!

Ode to Val

2009-04-15T11:44:00.001-05:00

How do you thank a friend who travels across the country, encourages you to ignore her while you write with friends who are also in town, wakes you up with Starbucks, and is generally up for anything? Valerie Wayne, I love you and want to tell the world that you are a friend sent from God who encouraged me greatly when I was down. Thank you. Thank you! THANK YOU!

Where's Smudge? She blends in with Val's strategic outfit.

Radner Lake

Late night Walgreen's/Walmart run. See Val's blog!

Awww . . .

Miss you already!

Spring Break

2009-04-15T11:33:00.000-05:00

I can't remember a time when I've needed a break more than I did this year. From a cross country move, losing a month of summer (I know, poor me), making all kinds of living and financial adjustments, and missing friends and family, I was worn out. Thankfully God sent me amazing friends and good times!

Jeffrey Steele at Tin Pan. This guy's energy was unreal! He writes most of the hits in Nashville. :) You might have seen him most recently on Nashville Star as a judge.
Radner Lake- a state park 10 min from my house.

Writing a fun song. Not that you can tell by my face. I think I was trying to be cool. Proof that I shouldn't do that.

Kailee and Joel. Songwriters and friends!

What it takes to write a great song. :)

A Cozy Place

2009-03-16T15:34:00.001-05:00

The Brentwood library is my favorite place to go on lazy Sundays. I sit in the reading room and use my laptop and catch up on all my social networking. :) There is always a fire going, which I am sad to say is still necessary out here. But there are huge windows that overlook a green field. It feels like a grand room of old. This is also where I get my free DVD's. I love the library!

And the Oscar Goes To . . .

2009-02-24T09:16:00.001-06:00

Meet my community group! Katie held an Oscar party complete with ballots and prizes. I won for my best picture pick. (Thank Darren!)

Megan made delicious brownies! Rachael is in the background. She is an amazing singer! Check her out on myspace. Her full name is Rachael Hurt. Don't have the link on me.

Kelsey has Oscar worthy hair!

Liegh won Batman pencils for her pick for best supporting actor

Here we are holding our own Oscars. Sorry to cut you off Christy! Katie, why you hiding, girl? :)

PAR-TAY! :)

2009-02-12T09:15:00.000-06:00

For my first experience with my community group (Bible study group) I was invited to a dinner. The guy group made an extravagant meal and wouldn't let us help at all. Seriously. I couldn't even get my own water. A girl could really get spoiled out here. :) Towards the end we were introduced to an awesome new type of workout called "Zumba" which is Latin for "dance." I have since taken a class and LOVE it more than words! After you watch this video you'll probably be checking out your local YMCA for the next available class too! More pics to come. . .

PS I am only showing you the highlights of life out here. There is still plenty of loneliness and life lessons that I wish I could be going through with dear friends. But enough of that. I think I will just watch the video again, too!

Wind Storm

2009-02-12T09:13:00.001-06:00

Here is a picture of what happened at a student's house yesterday.

The Grammy's!

2009-02-09T11:51:00.000-06:00

By a fluke I ended up at an official Grammy party last night. It was invite only at the Hard Rock Cafe. I have a laminate and a few pictures to prove it. I ran into some people I had met at my songwriter Expos and met more industry people. No one else was taking pictures (except with their iPhone!) so I looked like the "invited" guest I was when I did. I had to pull back a play it cool. ;) I had a great time eating free food and Shirley Temples. There was even an ice sculpture of the Grammy symbol! Awesome!

How did I get in here?! :)

Faking celebrity

Erick and I contemplating Grammy greatness.

Joy and Patricia: Durango Song Expo Buddies

Stuck

2009-02-08T12:25:00.000-06:00

Well, it happened. This time there is no quick response or answer. I am locked out of my classroom on a Sunday- keys, wallet, and phone inside. I have been able to use the phone and start chasing down phone numbers. There are snacks in a draw and change for a soda. Luckily I know the woman who sits here and I can already hear her saying, "I'm glad I had supplies for you!"

What is the lesson here? Always take your keys with you? Never come to work on the weekends? If you don't take time off God will make it happen? Memory decreases with age? Hmmm . . .

:) Help!

The Andrews Family

2009-01-27T23:05:00.000-06:00

How I love and miss them . . .

The Dark Horse

2009-01-25T15:03:00.000-06:00

Tha name of the recording studio alone makes me smile. Yesterday I had the opportunity to go into a remarkable studio to lay down some tracks for a recent song I wrote with Melissa Fuller Czech and Dee Briggs. I saw friend, Josh Rush, whom I haven't seen much of since I moved out here. It felt like the real thing and I couldn't have been more excited! I will upload the new song as soon as I get it. Melissa is singing it and running with it. Those who know me well know that one of my favorite things is to write and have someone else sing it. She does an awesome job!

Outside the Front door

Melissa!

Working out the details.

The Kitchen. This place is HUGE. It had bedrooms, a mini movie theatre, and several recording rooms. Heaven!

Hand Clapping Maddness

2009-01-15T17:13:00.000-06:00

If you can't see this, it's because we are faster than the human eye can process! :) Or it is too dark. I choose the first theory.

The fabulous, double-dutch hand clappers are yours truly and Val.

Darren Visits

2009-01-13T13:00:00.000-06:00

Darren is one of my oldest friends, not in years but in years known. He came for dinner while I was in CA and wowed the fam with magic tricks and stories from Morocco. He is not Moroccan, though his beard would suggest otherwise. For all you guys out there, yes it is real. Don't hate. :) I will miss you in Morocco and then Vermont. Go get 'em buddy!

Long time friends love to goof off!

Mom taking notes, doubtful of the outcome

Dad picking cards. He totally thinks he will trick Darren into doing the trick incorrectly.

Master Magician Darren fools 'em!

New Year a bit late!

2009-01-09T16:47:00.001-06:00

I celebrated the new year by going to Praise 2009 at Knott's. Whoo Hoo! I have been desperate to go on Excelerator ever since I went with my fifth graders. Unfortunately, Ghost Rider knocked my neck out of whack and I was done. Before that, I was unstoppable! It was so much fun! I hope you all had a wonderful time and let's look to this New Year with faith in our faithful and trustworthy Father! :) Peace Out!

Meet Brandon Heath. We did! :)

Before pic of Ghost Rider! :) Hi Val, Steph, Melissa, and Holly!

On My Way to San Diego

2008-12-30T22:59:00.001-06:00

"Good Lookin' Out."

2008-12-20T13:34:00.000-06:00

This was a phrase from the mean streets of Philly that translates to mean, "Thanks for thinking of me"or "Thanks for helping me." Today I want to give a shout out to our very merciful and kind God. I am at work (on Saturday) finishing grades. I went to go get a drink, gearing up for the hours that lay before me. As I walked back to my room, I ran into Becca (the girl who invited me to the party) who was also doing grades. We chatted and started to part ways when I realized that my door was locked. My keys, purse, and phone were all being held hostage. Turns out, Becca's key worked in my door. Now let's recap:

No one is typically here, especially the day after break.
I didn't have anyone to call because all the info was in my phone, in the locked classroom.
I couldn't have driven anywhere to get help; knocking on doors was an option.
It's cold outside :)
There are no custodians on duty to help

God, you are amazing. Thank you for seeing me and going before me!!

Thank you Aunt Barbara and Uncle Erick!!

2008-12-19T13:47:00.000-06:00

I love the smell of fresh pine. Imagine my surprise when I came home to a package with my very own Christmas wreath inside! Thank you so much for thinking of me and filling my apartment with holiday cheer! Love you!

Night Out!

2008-12-16T15:52:00.000-06:00

It may be hard to believe, but I actually went out on a weekend instead of going to work. :) I was invited to a party where we were under the strictest of instructions to dress up. I finally got to re-wear a bridesmaids dress! Thanks J!!These are some of my co-workers that I really don't know at all.

At least they look fun. ;)

Santa Barbara- A Songwriter's Dream

2008-12-13T15:58:00.000-06:00

These lovely pictures are taken at The Jacks' Family home in Santa Ynez. Mr. Joel Jacks is a favorite co-writer and dear friend of mine. His wife Karen, and three children are amazing and always make me feel like part of the family. Shout out to Annie, Ray, and Will JACKS!! :) See you in a few!

The Barn

Inside the Barn

PCH

Vista Point off PCH

In case you were wondering . . .

2008-12-12T15:12:00.000-06:00

Yes I do LOVE that blue sweatshirt. You know, the one that is in every recent blog. Anybody have a count of how many times it appears? Who ever guess correctly first gets a blog post dedicated in their honor! :)

Silly Science

2008-12-11T15:48:00.000-06:00

At least that is what a local newspaper calls what I do in class with my kids. They meant it in a fun way, though. I think . . . wait, should I be offended? hee hee

I was so excited to see my kids in the newspaper demonstrating plant kingdoms.

Rachel, Elijah, and ???

2008-12-05T17:52:00.000-06:00

One of my favorite things is to hold babies. Elijah has grown so much since I last saw him. :) He is still perfect and the most content little guy I have met. Congrats to Rachel and Ian who have another bun in the oven!!

Rachel hates this picture but it is the only one with all of us.

Aww

Awwwwwwww

Reunited and It Feels So Good

2008-12-05T16:38:00.000-06:00

Krissy, my infamous cross-country traveling buddy, and I were able to get together and share some much loved Starbucks. We re-lived old adventures but mainly oohed and ahhed over where our lives have taken us. She is a soldier to the core and is preparing to go abroad in Feb. I don't know what I would have done without her generous heart of friendship in driving out with me to TN. I will miss you, sister! Praying for you!!

Alumni

2008-12-05T16:24:00.000-06:00

I was blown away to come home for Thanksgiving and have a little party to reunite with my former students and their parents! I couldn't stop smiling after they rushed me and gave me a huge group hug. These seriously are amazing kids with amazing hearts. For those of you reading, thank you so much for coming to hang out, play Pictionary and catch up!! I LOVED seeing you! Thank you, Rachel, for putting it together and opening your beautiful home!

Zoe and Hally

Pictionary

Hard Core Pictionary

Tania rockin' the guitar!

Mitchell!

The fabulous Rachel and McKenzie

Party Animals

Before and After

2008-12-05T16:19:00.000-06:00

Before: CA 11/25

After: TN 12/1

Signs

2008-11-30T19:29:00.000-06:00

It's official. I am surrounded by the coolest family, friends, and students ever! These thoughful signs say so much more about their makers. Thank you for the ways you make me feel special and loved. You are all so special to me! :)

Found

2008-11-19T13:18:00.000-06:00

My cell phone was in the washing machine. I will have a new one by this weekend, but can't check messages anymore. I feel disconnected, but at peace. See you soon!

Cell Phone

2008-11-18T17:21:00.000-06:00

is MIA . . .

2008-11-15T21:24:00.000-06:00

Hello dear ones! It has been too long! Here is a picture of this year's class. They presented me with a rolling podium for teacher appreciation week. WOW! I also was given a winter supply of Starbucks cards. Man it's getting cold around here and I am so thankful!

Other tid-bits:

I am sitting here on a Sat night watching Finding Nemo and munching a delicious homemade chicken quesadilla with a side of asparagus. I went in to work tonight for a few hours. I have been called a "work-a-holic" by several people. Truth is, I feel like I am in a glass box. Good news is I feel like I am getting better at my job that challenges me on every level.
I teach guitar to a few girls on Thursdays. It is a great way to get to know them.
I am coming home for Thanksgiving and Christmas!! Can't wait!
Smudge is a great companion. She has now taken to sitting and even sleeping with me on some privildged occasions.
I have started taking the steps to get more plugged in at Fellowship Bible Church

Smudge getting comfy on the couch next to me.

Meet my team teacher, Mary Carol! She is as fabulous than she looks! :)

"Sometimes" is Today

2008-10-28T19:15:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I just really want to watch the Sound of Music.

Saturday Driving

2008-10-26T16:08:00.000-05:00

Horses!

Breath-taking drive.

My FAVORITE!

Tennessee is a place where I can breathe in the sights at any moment. It actually soothes my heart and shouts about God's majesty all at once. Open fields and sunlight playing with the fall colored leaves is beauty in action. Come for a visit. You'll like it. Winter is almost upon us, so I'll let you know if this fuzzy feeling stays! :)

TN Weather Channel

2008-10-17T11:46:00.000-05:00

The forecast has dramatically changed from sunny with a high of 75 to CHILLY! When in Rome . . . Did I mention that I am currently enjoying something called "Fall Break?" It's the strangest concept. We get two days off to enjoy ourselves. Perhaps it has something to do with the weather to soon become even more restrictive and this is our last chance to enjoy the fading warmth of summer. I hear CA is having the opposite situation. Heat waves?!

Day 1 of so named "Fall Break" : I watched most of We Are Marshall while toasting marshmallows and making smores. It was raining outside. "It's not like I want to build a summer home here but the trees are actually quite lovely." Name that movie. :)

Impatient mallow making . . .

I LOVE PUMPKINS! I greatly miss getting to go with my niece and nephew this year.

Day 2: In progress :)

In Response to Val

2008-10-14T11:41:00.000-05:00

True, the beach is a far off dream that I will have to visit, but let's not even get started on the Fall competition. These pictures were taken on my way to work. What's missing? Traffic, concrete, tall buildings . . . oh and I can visit like 12 states in a weekend. :)

But I do miss the sound of the waves . . .

Durango in Pictures

2008-10-11T13:19:00.000-05:00

Treva Bloomquist (http://trevamusic.com/ or http://www.myspace.com/treva) and Sarah Buxton (http://profile.myspace.com/sarahbuxton), an amazing artist with a killer voice. Her big cut was "Stupid Boy" by Keith Urban. I LOVE the song "Space" that she wrote with Chuck Cannon and his wife.

Hanging with friends!

"Put 'em up! Put 'em up!

Penny Dionne and Troy McConnell. Great people and authors of the book Songplugger: The Cuts and the Bruises."

Wardrobe malfunction

Cheyenne Mountain Resort, CO Springs

My new friend Treva! She laughs at my jokes. . .

Debut of "Forever With You." Dee and I's shout out to Maroon 5. :)

I felt very important. Funny how a piece of paper can transform a morning. hee hee

Colorado in No Particular Order

2008-10-09T11:57:00.001-05:00

School Pictures and Flying Away

2008-09-30T20:50:00.000-05:00

Here is my school picture for the year. Actually, I like it. Well, except for one thing that I had corrected this week. "House of Brows" is my friend now. Man are those brows uneven! :) Documented for all time.

On a higher note, my camera has this nifty zoom feature that allowed me to capture someone's hot air balloon excursion last Saturday. See those leaves? That is called "Fall" California friends. I know, I have heard of it too! It really exists. :) Just playing. People who truly love the Fall can feel the change anywhere. Is it possible to be a season snob? Maybe we should start a club?

Cyclists With Courage and Compassion

2008-09-22T23:50:00.000-05:00

Tonight I had the privilege of hanging out with four rather remarkable young men. (I joked with them that it looked like I won a contest or something.) They are cycling across the USA to raise money for a non-profit they started to set up life guard training in Nicaragua. They are 12 days into this incredible adventure.

I have known one of these guys, Scott, since my early days in Westminster. Nashville was one of their stops and I was thrilled to get to chat with them as they are passing through. I got to hear first hand accounts of crossing the Appalachian Mountains! Wow. Today was 120 mile bike ride. To hear their hearts concerning this cause was impressive and inspiring.

Their website is www.cycling4acause.org This is the type of action, faith , and adventure that I want to support. You, too? :)

Would you please pray with me for safety, endurance, rejuvenation, wisdom, and joy in this crazy courageous task?

Scott, Olin, Eric, and Peter,

May God bless you with more down hill experiences and give you the extra drive you need to make it up the big ones. You are all in my prayers now. Grace be with you on this ride of a lifetime! (Can you hear patriotic theme music playing behind that last statement, or is it just me? Maybe it is the Super Mario Bros. theme?)

:)

How did I do it?

2008-09-20T10:29:00.000-05:00

You might be asking how I was able to keep Val here for so long against her will. My secret? Smudge. Not only is she a ferocious attack cat but she is also adorable. Much like Boots in Shrek. Ah, the POWER of a bipolar kitty!

"You ain't goin' nowhere."

"Yes, you may pet me now."

"Wassup fool? You want to rumble? Bring it on!"

(You know and I know this was all a ploy to get more cat pictures on my blog without coming across as crazy cat lady. But let's keep the illusion for now? Hee hee.)

Day 3

2008-09-20T09:34:00.000-05:00

Here is the posed picture for Day 3 of Val's forced captivity. Notice how the grande nonfat hazelnut latte is out of her reach.

"Give me my latte!"
"Never!"
Can you here the Batman theme playing in the background? Welcome to downtown Nashville.

You find the coolest things downtown. :) Uh huh huh

We were told we had to go here. . . we stayed outside. :)
For more pics see Val's blog. :)

Day 2

2008-09-20T09:18:00.000-05:00

Apparently there isn't any documentation of day two. Perhaps it was too horrible or not fit for younger viewers?

It started off with bagels. I went to work and sent her to the store; she slept while I WORKED. Val picked me up and visited with my students, giving a lollipop to a diabetic . . . :) Then I slept while she watched TV. Next stop was the best food so far, Bread and CO. We found a movie theatre that I am embarrassed to say was far closer than our travel time to get there. I highly DO NOT recommend Burn After Reading. The funny Brad Pitt moments do not excuse or redeem the crudeness or vulgarity. I wish I hadn't seen it. :( I was convicted this morning even more, a full week after seeing it, that I have the power to walk out of a theatre. Thanks Greg Laurie.

Val and I cleansed out pallet by watching part of National Treasure. This school teacher couldn't hang! Bed time!

Day 1 of Val's Captivity

2008-09-14T14:53:00.000-05:00

Valerie Wayne, AKA "Val" arrived via Southwest at approximately 6pm central time. Feeling a bit groggy from the time change, she was an easy capture. Without her consent, she was dragged to Logan's Roadhouse where she was forced to feast on delicious rolls and peanuts. She quickly became aggravated and began throwing her food.

Look What I Found!

2008-09-08T19:25:00.003-05:00

Right here in Brentwood, TN, a USC fan! :) His sister is just starting there this Fall.

My "Perfect" Circle

2008-09-03T16:36:00.000-05:00

Oh Happy First Day!!

2008-09-02T21:50:00.000-05:00

Attention all 5th . . . I mean SIXTH GRADERS!!

I hope you have a wonderful first day of school being official Junior High Students. "Too easy Miss Miller!" Go get 'em!

Tail-gating, beautiful sky, and bubbles- Happy Friday

2008-08-29T23:59:00.001-05:00

Spiders . . BIG spiders

2008-08-29T23:31:00.000-05:00

Creepy!

New Classroom

2008-08-27T22:21:00.001-05:00

My space in the new "Bat Cave." It is clean now and there will be a new can of diet coke in the morning. But what is it with me and trees? I NEEDED one. Thanks for my flowers mom! You absolutely made my day!

The Shack

2008-08-23T22:29:00.000-05:00

I read two books in a 24 hour period. I guess I was due. :) One that has affected me is called The Shack. Apparently this has been around but I hadn't even heard of it. I highly recommend it!

http://theshackbook.com/

It's Official

2008-08-23T22:18:00.000-05:00

I now have a TN license and plate. But notice that I am still representing Cali! :)

Mom's July Visit

2008-08-08T20:03:00.000-05:00

Hi all! Just click on the slide show to the right with the pic of my mom and I on the side of the page to see images of her visit.

By the way, if you want to turn off the music, it is coming from the other slide show a few posts down. Just roll your mouse over "more" and click the speaker.

School starts Monday! Peace out!

PS

2008-08-08T09:52:00.001-05:00

Got my TN license and met Brad Paisley's audio engineer in the process. Only in Nashville. . .

Something to Ponder

2008-08-08T09:48:00.000-05:00

Why is the fear of long words called hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia?

:)

2008-08-05T08:09:00.000-05:00

I miss her!

2008-08-03T20:39:00.000-05:00

I mean really, does it get any cuter than this? :)

Crazy fast update

2008-08-03T18:34:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday, MOM!

Hi everyone! It has been too long . . . I officially get internet tomorrow so my blogging will be more up-to-date, as will emails!
Here are some updates:
-God gave me a job at Crockett Elementary School team teaching 5th grade!
-I have been busy setting up my classroom and preparing
-My mom came out to visit for a week and we had an amazing time- slide show coming soon!
-She helped me add a few new pieces of furniture. She is a super shopper. :)
-I have been meeting more people and going to hear performers
-Smudge is doing really well!
-I've been writing music here and there, but would like to do more
-Good-bye summer :( and hello Provision :)
-You are missed. I love the emails and phone calls so much! (Special shout out to the Ringor family- thanks for the message!!)
-One of my roommates from Hill House, Stephanie, sent this to me and I was blown away. Too cool! Trust me.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3n8gxEwLx0w

My Fifth Graders Will Really Understand This

2008-07-22T10:27:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I walked into the very cluttered yet wonderful store, Bed Bath and Beyond, to return an orange decorative pillow- it had a tear. While I was distractedly waiting for the kind saleswoman to finish the exchange, squeezable key chains caught my eye. Naturally I picked up the rat because my mind instantly went to Disney/Pixar's Ratatouille. I squeezed the smiling gray rodent and what came out? None other than the script from from our beloved alien friend who does the "I like you" routine. My mouth dropped open and I looked at the people around me to see if they were as appalled as I was that someone stole those awesome words! (No one seems to care. In fact they avoided eye contact because I might have appeared slightly strange at caring so much about what a stuffed rat was saying.)

Regardless of the wrongness of this event, it made me think of my amazing fifth graders. Here is the link for old times sake. :) You are special. You are loved.

http://www.chriscummins.com/like/

Sunday Driving

2008-07-20T17:21:00.000-05:00

A friend of mine suggested that I "get lost" in Tennessee in order to find cool things and get to know the area. Here are some pictures of my Sunday drive. I found a great quiet time spot! By the way, I think I found a church!!

Buffalo Bills and the Bluebird

2008-07-19T15:13:00.001-05:00

Buffalo Bills is a popular spot in downtown Nashville. I recently went there with friends and met a girl who I hope to become good friends with. She has mad foosball skills and taught me how to twirl a pool cue like a riffle color guard style! Yesterday I went to the world famous Bluebird cafe to get tickets but they were sold out. However, the guy let me sneak in to the current show. I met a woman whom I had met during a songwriters conference and listened to amazing music! :) I am getting the feeling that this is a "small" town. :)

Meet Smudge!

2008-07-12T19:25:00.000-05:00

I adopted Smudge from PetSmart through Nashville Cat Rescue. She is quite the princess but has a compelling tale. On Christmas Eve last year, she was a month old and all alone. She found the only warm place she could, a car engine. She crawled inside to brave the Nashville cold. But someone started the car engine! Luckily she fell out or else she would have been killed. A good Samaritan took her to an emergency clinic. She lost most of her left ear. However, her personality is that of a cat that doesn't know she has lopsided features! :) She loves to stretch out (I think this is because she has been in cages most of her life) and be picked up to see what she is missing on the upper level of things.

I promise I won't turn into the crazy cat lady who only talks about her cat, but I did want to introduce you to Smudgy!

Before and After Photos

2008-07-12T19:22:00.000-05:00

Here is the link to check out the before and after photos of my TN Apt. There are details lacking, but I love it! :)

http://picasaweb.google.com/carolyn.rose.miller/BeforeAndAfter

Thunder storms in July

2008-07-09T11:42:00.001-05:00

Internet has been a bit tricky lately as I am at the mercy of free Wi-fi. :) However, I am now sitting in the beautiful club house window watching the light sprinkle of rain and roar of distant thunder. TN weather is a trip!

I adopted a cat today. Her name is Smudge. You know pictures will be coming very soon. I have always been a little leery of being the single girl with a cat, but now I can't wait to have this new little addition to my new living space.

I am almost done with the last box and the next time I post I will give you a tour! Thanks for sharing in this with me!

Ohhh, that was NOT so distant thunder just now . . . FUN!

Before Pic of My Apt

2008-07-07T12:51:00.001-05:00

Things you don't see in Signal Hill, CA

2008-07-07T12:38:00.000-05:00

As I walked through the dimly lit streets of my new neighborhood, I came across a few things that perked my interest, scared me, and made me smile. Let's start with the smiling part - lightening bugs. Last night was like a scene out of Disney's animated Robin Hood, you know the part when they are walking through the forest and falling in love and the lightening bugs softly accent the moment? OK, so this moment was minus the foxes and cool love song. Ah, but the falling in love with The Creator of that moment was absolutely real. :)

Let's now talk about the bats. These winged creatures sporadically fly around in such a jagged fashion that I wonder if they are in a huge hurry or about to crash land somewhere. They really aren't as scary as I would have thought.

I did jump when I heard a very strange sound suddenly erupt among the reeds of the small pond. I still don't know what it was. . . do you think ducks snore?

At last we come to a creature that has become dear to my heart and unfortunately I am well acquainted with them. Those who know me best can already guess. SKUNKS! This east coast variety seems a lot less threatened by humans. He didn't even lift his tail or hiss at me. Of course after I saw him, every log or darkened lump in the grass became another one. Welcome to Tennessee, Carolyn. :)

Graceland

2008-07-05T17:31:00.000-05:00

Where do you have to go if you stop in Memphis? Graceland baby! Krissy left with arms full of souvenirs for her family and I left with a head full of knowledge about Elvis' amazing and tragic life. The morning started with getting lost trying to find a Starbucks. We ended up at a total dive of a diner that had the BEST BREAKFAST EVER! After Graceland (headphone tour and everything) we drove the last leg to Nashville. I love where I am living! It is gorgeous, no stunning! Pics to come soon! Hope you enjoyed the road trip as much as we did. I will miss Krissy dearly as she experienced a whole bunch of firsts with me here. I miss you all!!

Tuesday, Day 4

2008-07-01T23:44:00.001-05:00

I have a new favorite song of the moment by Reba McEntire and Justin Timberlake called "The Only promise That Remains." Krissy is playing it on her iPhone right now. It has been on repeat. Check it out! :)

The traveling has gotten much easier. Krissy wisely suggested that we push on to Memphis rather than stay in Little Rock, AR, but not before we made a stop at Benihana's! Delish!

We finished Harry Potter and The Half Blood Prince! Krissy is dying to know what happens in the last book. Don't give it away!! :)