Week 45: A Week to Fund Raise

Let's rewind back to January of 2011, so about 8 months ago. There was a lot going on in my life (you're more than welcome to head back to the archives of my blog and read more detail). It was during that time, as I was thinking about "New Year's Resolutions" and dreams that I had for the new year, that the thought of running a 5K came to mind. Now, I was not a runner. Goodness, I couldn't run 0.1 mile without wanting to die. I actually remember seeing people in the neighborhood running and thinking that they were masochists. "Why in the world would someone run for enjoyment?" I would think to myself. Any way, so the point is that the fact that this thought would even enter my mind is a miracle in itself. So I started training off and on through out January, February, March, and April. By off and on, I mean I would run for a couple weeks and then stop for a couple. I would never say that those months were wasted because it slowly got me running, but I wasn't seriously training. The same goes for my eating habits. I would be eating really healthily and appropriately for a couple weeks, then give up and overeat.

Then it was about the end of May, as I was going through "A Call to Die" by David Nasser (which I am now going through with my college ministry students) that things really started. There was one chapter (again, go back and read about it- I blogged ALL about it) that God used to change my life forever. It was such a simple chapter, yet it was like something clicked. From that day on, I joined Weight Watchers, started going to OA (Overeaters Anonymous), started working out 5+days a week, and started seriously training for this 5K. Let me tell you, it was all God. There is nothing in my human nature that wanted to leave this pit I'd been in for years, really for as long as I can remember- a pit of using food as comfort, being lazy, and honestly, just hating myself because I couldn't seem to overcome this sin in my life. It was 100% God, and still is. It wasn't until I stopped, realized that I was weak and powerless in the battle with food and laziness, and sought God with EVERYTHING that I had that things turned around.

So that's the background story. Here I am 30+ pounds lighter, just ran 3.2 miles for the first time today, feeling physically the best I've ever felt, and praising the Lord for all of it! A couple months ago, I signed up for my first official 5K. It's October 1- only a couple weeks away! Now, I knew that I wanted to run a race that meant something to me. I wanted to find a 5K with a cause that I could get behind and be excited about. I searched and searched and finally found one in Cambridge, MA with a cause dear to my heart. This 5K is to raise funds and awareness for Samaritans, a non-profit organization dedicated to reducing the incidence of suicide in Greater Boston and Metrowest. The tag line for the run is "run for someone else's life." I know so many people who suffer from depression and have entertained suicidal thoughts. Depression seems to run in my family as well. My sister is only 22 years old and has had SEVERAL friends commit suicide, and many of those people were mutual friends of her husband. They both have lost people very close to them. It's insane how many funerals they have been to already. Because this cause is also very dear to my sister and bother-in law's hearts, they are running with me! Our team name is simply "Team Hope," and we are running for all of the people we know who have lost their lives to suicide.

If you are able to contribute to this cause, we would really appreciate it. You go to this website and donate online: https://sna.etapestry.com/fundraiser/Samaritans/5K2011/individual.do?participationRef=1834.0.584395169

Also, prayers are greatly appreciated as the three of us continue to fund raise and train for the run. This week I'm focused on fundraising for the run and finishing up my training as October 1 draws near. Thank you all for your support, not only in this but in all things. I know that so many of you faithfully read my blog, pray for me, and check up on me. I sooo appreciate that- you have no idea!

Week 44, Day 5

My “little sister” is one of the most amazing people I know. I remember the day that she was born, I remember reading to her when she was a baby, I remember her following us around because she wanted to be like her big sisters. I remember she was the cutest baby.

Now, she is my little sister but grown up into a lovely young woman. Seriously, I can’t believe she is a sophomore in COLLEGE. When did that even happen???? I remember when I first found out she was going away to college, and I was so proud of her. I knew that it was a big step for her. Elyse has taught me a lot about family. She loves us so much. Not saying that Jennie and I don’t, but Elyse has always consistently put family first. No matter what. She’s a “Daddy’s girl” AND a “Mommy’s girl.” Because of her great love her for us, it was hard for her to go away, but I am so glad that she did so she can get that experience.

I have realized that since Elyse has grown up, I have become really protective of her. When her heart is broken, all I want to do is punch the person in the face who hurt her. For real. Guys, please be aware that you might never be good enough for Elyse in my eyes…ok that sounds mean. But the point is that, it’s going to take a very very very amazing guy to be good enough for my little sister. There will be many tests and daring feats he will need to perform before things get serious. Trust me.

I’m the oldest, but I will tell you that my younger sisters have been the ones to teach me, to shape who I am today. Elyse is an amazing friend- she goes above and beyond for them. She really loves people and that is very clear. Her family is always #1 priority. She’s such a hard worker. School has never come easy for her, but she works so hard and ends up doing an amazing job.

Elyse and I are a lot alike. We both love to sing (Jennie thinks she’s not a good singer, but she’s full of crap) and we love musicals. Some of my favorite times with Elyse lately have been the times we’ve gone to the theater and spent time together doing something we both enjoy. I just love her so much.

It’s funny. I didn’t really think that this week would be so much about my family. There have been SOOO many experiences, events, people in my life that have shaped who I am today. But it’s my family that has made the most impact. I love them more and more each day. I miss them a lot, but I know that wherever I am, they are there for me.

Week 44, Day 3

Today I received a beautiful card from Mom and Dad. It was a birthday card and said:

"I see a young lady out in the world, following her dreams, doing good, and making a difference. Then I think, "Hey, that's my kid. That's my pride and joy." Happy Birthday to a daughter who's so inspiring. And loved."

Of course I cried. No surprise there. I can't take a week to remember events in life that have shaped who I am as I turn 25 years old, without remembering my parents. My parents have shaped who I am today. God blessed me with an amazing mom and dad...seriously, it doesn't get much better than this. Now, I'm not saying there hasn't been disagreements or conflict or very different opinions on things. There has been. What I AM saying is that through all of it, I have always felt supported, always felt encouraged, always felt loved. I am a bit of a free spirit, I go where God leads no matter what that costs, and it has cost a lot at times. My family has probably thought that I'm crazy multiple times, and they would be right. I know that I am : ) But my parents have always let me go where I needed to go, even when it meant me not being physically around, which I know is so hard. Being obedient to God, has not only been a sacrifice for me, but for my parents, sisters, aunts and uncles as well. And while I know it's hard for them, they continue to support me. Gosh, what a blessing.

When I think about who I am as I turn a quarter of a century old, I know that I am a perfect mix of my parents. I have my mom's empathy, her compassion, her intuition, her love for people, her hard working/dedicated nature...and I know she's reading this thinking that I'm giving her way too much credit and that she's really not that great- I also got that from her. Mom, you are that great. Believe me!

Then there's Dad. This story will tell you a bit about him. One night, my friend Kaitlyn (Kait-I hope you're reading this) and I were watching the movie "Resident Evil" in my basement. All of a sudden my dad pops through the downstairs window, right where we were sitting and scared the crap out of both of us- almost literally. I have my Dad's sense of humor, his sense of adventure, love of practical jokes, his desire to work hard, his protective nature, his wisdom, and his love for people. Not to mention, I see pictures of when I was a child, and I look A LOT like my dad. Now that I've grown up, I think I look more like Mom.

Both of my parents would bend over backwards for just about anybody. They are two of the greatest people in the world (I'm so not biased at all).

So ladies and gentleman, the Amanda Keene you know today is a product of Mom and Dad's love and care (led by God) throughout these 25 years. I personally think they did a mighty fine job, don't you?

Week 44, Day 2

When my sisters and I were growing up, my middle sister Jennie was a free spirit (and still is). I remember when we asked Jennie what she wanted to do when she grew up, she would say she wanted to be a "hobo in Jamaica." Then the end of the summer 2007 came around, and Jennie told us she was pregnant. It was a big shock, life changing moment. Tons of emotions ran wild. Hands down, I have never been more proud of my family than in this time- a time where we walked alongside Jennie and just loved her. I have never been more proud of Jennie (well that may not be true since every single day I am proud of her). She bravely went through pregnancy, through giving birth, through being a mother at a young age. Her boyfriend (now husband) was with her through the whole thing. He's a great man, and I'm proud to call him my brother-in-law. I feel as if he's been part of the family forever.

I will never forget the day that Riley (my niece) was born. Seriously, Jennie gave birth and I don't think I heard one peep from her. She was so strong and brave. Then Riley Lauren entered the world and our world changed forever. This small, fragile, beautiful infant brought such joy to all of our lives. Now, I know the sacrifices Jennie and Cory made being parents at a young age, and it may not have been at an ideal time, but I am completely convinced that God had His hand in the whole thing. Riley brought our family together, my Grandma (lovingly known as G.G. which stands for great grandma) adored her right up until she passed, Jennie and Cory quickly matured into amazing parents because of her...The first time I held Riley, I immediately loved her. Well, I loved her before she was even born, but there's something very different about actually holding your niece in your arms for the first time. I never knew I could love a child that much. Goodness, if I love Riley that much and she isn't even my own child, I can't even imagine the love I will feel for my own.

Then last summer Jennie and Cory were married, and I can honestly say that it was one of the best days of MY life! It was the most beautiful wedding I have ever been to, the most fun wedding, and a wonderful celebration of love between two of my favorite people in the world.

God has used Jennie, Cory, and Riley to shape who I am today.

Week 44: A Week to Celebrate Me!

Guess what this Friday is... If you guessed my birthday, you are correct! Can you guess how old I will be? Note to self: don't ever let a child guess. Last time I did, they said "40!" Not really a self-esteem boost : ) I will be 25 years old. 25. A quarter of a century. Wow.

A lot has happened in these 25 years of my life- a lot of huge accomplishments, a lot of mistakes, a lot of let downs, a couple broken hearts, a lot of wonderful surprises, millions of blessings....I write this post, and it's hard to believe that I am already 25 years old. And, I'm kind of fighting back tears (let's be honest, this is no surprise to those who know me) as I praise God for the wonderful life that He has given to me. Gosh, how stinking blessed am I to have had such amazing experiences, awesome opportunities, an outstanding Christian College education, seriously the best friends a girl could ask for, a wonderful loving family who supports me in everything that I do....I have soo much. Such a full life.

I will be honest and say that this birthday will be a little hard for me, just because I'm not home. I've been a bit homesick this past week. This is the first birthday that I am away from home and not celebrating with my family and friends back home. BUT I am excited to spend the weekend with new friends, great people whom God has brought into my life. Yet another blessing!

This week, I want to look back on my life and blog about different events that have shaped who I am today and just moments in life that stick out for one reason or another. AND if you're reading this and can think of some moments in life that we've shared together, I would LOVE to read those! It would be a wonderful birthday present to me! Write a comment, so we can remember together : )

Today, I'll talk about college. I've been thinking a lot about college lately, probably because I am leading a college ministry here at the corps. College was such an amazing experience for me for many reasons. I made some amazing friends there. I met my very best friend in college, I met a group of gals in college who will be life long friends, I found The Salvation Army in college, it was in college when I worked at a camp during the summer that I was saved...so many wonderful things. I'd say one of the most transforming times was when I was an RA (Resident Assistant) for the first time- my sophmore year in college. Oh man, I ran into pretty much every problem/situation in the book. In fact, I could probably write my own book about my experiences as an RA. As crazy and tough it was, I LOVED it. I seriously loved the girls on my floor, I had an amazing RD, wonderful co-RA's, friends who lived on the floor with me in order to support me during that year...God used that year to challenge me, grow me, mature me, and all of this led to me accepting Christ that summer at a camp. This picture was taken on my birthday my sophmore year of college. It was actually a really tough weekend- many problems on my floor and in the midst of it all, I had to go on a camping trip with all of West Hall. I figured no one remembered my birthday, but then all of a sudden one of my fellow RA's brought out boxes of cupcakes and everyone sang "Happy Birthday" to me. It was simple, yet just what I needed to feel loved at that moment.

I am in a MASSIVE amount of debt now because of college, but I would never trade it back. Each of the four years of college holds a special place in my heart. Frolicking around with blankets on our heads to surprise a friend, sledding down a tiny hill on pieces of card board, sliding down a super soapy slip 'n slide, creating a "turd popsicle," making up code names for certain people, beach and jungle themed pranks in rival halls, Trollstock....memories that won't be forgotten. Gosh, I am blessed.