Author Archives: Sammi

Thoughts of Last Year

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2014 was the year lots of things changed. I made the transfer from homeschooling my whole 16 years of existence to college. Friendships died, blossomed, and grew. I got my first job and started earning my own money. I bought a computer and got my first smart phone. I got into (really into) a Korean TV show. I traveled to Mexico for the first time. I became the only child at home. I planned and cooked meals for 3 months. I got my hair cut short. I helped start a band and performed in cafes and in a competition. I discovered the beauty of my own city. I started volunteering on my own. I became a local freak.

2014 was a bitter sweet year. I’d say it was one the the worst years of my life and also one of the best. I had to deal with stress, pain, and directionless-ness. I learned decided how I would deal with each of these. I decided who to turn to. Myself, others, or God. I further recognized the need of a savior.

I suppose, instead of changing into someone else, I’ve changed more into myself.

 

Thanksgiving

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Here’s a few photos from a lovely trip to St. Louis. Let’s just say it’s weird going to your sister’s house. That she lives in with her husband. When did all this happen?

I’m a working gal

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I don’t necessarily work in retail, but I think some of the retail stereotypes still apply at my bookstore job. I’ve had some interesting experiences. And I’ve really learned a lot.  Probably the biggest thing I’ve learned is how to make and deal with a mistake. Some situations are just rough. Here are a few rough situations:

1) When telling a customer you can help them at register 3, never say “I can check you out right here.”

2) When trying to recover from saying “I can check you out right here”, don’t say “I mean, I can do you right here.” Just don’t.

3) When asking a not too shabby looking guy for a phone number under his account, don’t say “Can I have your number?”

4) When answering the phone, remember that this is your territory and the other person probably feels just as uncomfortable.

5) But in case you still are nervous, don’t stumble over your own words, e.g., “Is there any other answers that you have that I can question?” Just take your time and get the words out correctly. Yeah…

6) Don’t read sad books when there are no customers to help. You might start crying.

7) When dealing with a crabby customer, try not to talk to them like they’re a child. “It doesn’t look like we can buy this book back.” Moments later, “We’re still unable to buy this book back… See this water damage? We can’t buy any books back with water damage… This book, we’re unable to buy it back… I’m sorry, we can’t buy this book… Okay, let me try this one more time and we’ll see if you can understand. WE CAN’T BUY THIS BOOK BACK.” At times like these, I’m glad I’m not a manager.

Bop to the Top

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School is almost done, and I find myself thinking of how much I have. I have a great college. The perfect college job, the perfect amount of down time. Yes, there are crazy, hard things to get through (mostly statistics), but life is so good. And, although B is for bad, it’s not the end of the world.

Plus I’ve been able to join part of the Engagement Team for Transform Rockford. I’m greatly looking forward to directing some energy there.

A few other great things happened just today. I have been thinking of joining student government at Rock Valley College, and today two of the board members at different times invited me to join!

Also today I randomly felt that I should offer my house to host some InterVarsity event over Christmas break. Before I could tell one of the leaders, an opportunity arose without me bringing it up. It just goes to show what an open mind and heart can do. Be ready and listen for God’s voice. Don’t be anxious. You’re where you are for a reason. God has your back. And everything else.