For clarification, I never wanted it to appear as if I "preferred" one parent over the other. Coming from a divorced family, it's important for me to not mention one parent merely because I mentioned the other. So, here's the low-down on my parents.
Mom- She's strong. I have seen her go through the roughest of times, and still pull out on top. She has held me while I have cried, and taught me to be strong and self-sufficient. She knows when I am struggling and too confident to ask for help. Such as sending surprise checks when I can't afford rent. She has always encouraged me to not let people hold me back, and to reach for the biggest goals. She has offered me a perspective on life that I would never get anywhere else. She has also encouraged me to get along with everyone and communicate with a variety of people.
Dad- Dad has taught me to form critical opinions and beliefs and stick beside them. It's worth it to put your faith out on a limb and risk having others not be liked. He's taught me I can survive living alone, and learn how to bake pies without dropping them in the oven. From my dad, I have also learned how important it is to create images for yourself in positive light.
In the end, both of my parents continue to challenge me to grow. Though I may not mention them equally, both have obviously had a major impact on my life.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Awesome People
I feel as if a shout-out to some of my friends is in dire need. Life has really been picking up for me lately, and it is because of some pretty sweet peeps.
Andy Jensen- Andy is always making me smile with random texts. He is so receptive to help and advice, and I am the same way toward him. We have a lot in common, and learn something new about each other everyday. Though he lives in SD, i am quite confidently able to call him one of my best friends.
Ian Andersen- He's a definite life saver. From getting away from creepy guys to borrowing your TV so you don't have to put it in storage, Ian is just one of those people I'm glad I have met in the past week.
Dave Kelly- Well, without getting into too much detail, Dave loves things that I don't. And he compliments my ruined pie.
Curtis Ullerich- No one can make me smile as much as Curtis. Sometimes I don't get his jokes, but I just laugh anyway.
The Interns- I never thought we would get to be this close. I love our hour lunch breaks and adventures in the office.
Andrew Lopez- I love watching him interact with people. Anywhere we go, he can introduce everyone and tell a story about them. He is very confident and out-going, staying up late chatting with Dave is worth dragging at work.
Keesha- I'm so glad I have her in Ames. I wouldn't know how anything worked without her in my life.
Morgan- Your company is greatly treasured when you come to visit. We think on the same page, even if we won't say our comments out-loud. Our vibe cannot be broken.
Ethan- What a patient friend. He helped make a table, dealt with my lack of grilling supplies, and even waited forever when I donated plasma.
Molly- Molly is a great friend. I know I can text her anything, and she is awesome to hang out with when she can make it to Ames. She can give me advice from miles away, and I'll be receptive.
Dad- He knows I can make it on my own, and he just offers words of encouragement despite the issue. He knows I'm getting stronger and wiser by the day and he can asses my growth in my faith as I prepare to leave for Niger.
I'd also like to give a shout-out to my good friend Saul. Thanks for being 31 and creepy.
Andy Jensen- Andy is always making me smile with random texts. He is so receptive to help and advice, and I am the same way toward him. We have a lot in common, and learn something new about each other everyday. Though he lives in SD, i am quite confidently able to call him one of my best friends.
Ian Andersen- He's a definite life saver. From getting away from creepy guys to borrowing your TV so you don't have to put it in storage, Ian is just one of those people I'm glad I have met in the past week.
Dave Kelly- Well, without getting into too much detail, Dave loves things that I don't. And he compliments my ruined pie.
Curtis Ullerich- No one can make me smile as much as Curtis. Sometimes I don't get his jokes, but I just laugh anyway.
The Interns- I never thought we would get to be this close. I love our hour lunch breaks and adventures in the office.
Andrew Lopez- I love watching him interact with people. Anywhere we go, he can introduce everyone and tell a story about them. He is very confident and out-going, staying up late chatting with Dave is worth dragging at work.
Keesha- I'm so glad I have her in Ames. I wouldn't know how anything worked without her in my life.
Morgan- Your company is greatly treasured when you come to visit. We think on the same page, even if we won't say our comments out-loud. Our vibe cannot be broken.
Ethan- What a patient friend. He helped make a table, dealt with my lack of grilling supplies, and even waited forever when I donated plasma.
Molly- Molly is a great friend. I know I can text her anything, and she is awesome to hang out with when she can make it to Ames. She can give me advice from miles away, and I'll be receptive.
Dad- He knows I can make it on my own, and he just offers words of encouragement despite the issue. He knows I'm getting stronger and wiser by the day and he can asses my growth in my faith as I prepare to leave for Niger.
I'd also like to give a shout-out to my good friend Saul. Thanks for being 31 and creepy.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Self-discoveries
As much as I am no where near being ready to marry anyone there are many aspects of life that show my outlook changing.
1. I am a submissive people person. I love seeing people happy, and I know that it is terrible to wait on people hand and foot, but sometimes I just want to make others feel happy. I usually say "I don't care what movie we watch," because I legit don't mind.
2. I have different lists for males. I have the list of men that I would date, and men that I would marry. Few men are in the middle of this list. Of course, someone needs to fall in-between in order for me to consider dating them, but I can't figure out why these two "lists" vary so much.
3. I now know some people guys just aren't worth it. I mean, I appreciate you buying me a drink for my birthday and calling me the most beautiful girl you have ever seen- but no, I would never go home with you.
4. I have started to refer to boys as men. Goodness, I'm getting old.
Discoveries that don't involve men..
1. I love planning gatherings, even if they aren't successful.
2. I can do anything with enough prayer. I donated plasma, have came close to meeting my fundraising goal for Niger, and even have done a few summer class assignments that I thought would kill me, lived alone... etc.
3. I can deal without structure and organization much better than two months ago. My desk at work is a mess, but I understand my system. I can't handle being tidy, unless it's my house, but even then I always make changes. I can make plans at the last minute, and not be let down when people cancel on me.
4. I can comfortably talk to people about my faith and journey to be more Christ-like. It used to be hard for me, but now I can tell when I am connected and just talk about my faith and the implications for my life.
1. I am a submissive people person. I love seeing people happy, and I know that it is terrible to wait on people hand and foot, but sometimes I just want to make others feel happy. I usually say "I don't care what movie we watch," because I legit don't mind.
2. I have different lists for males. I have the list of men that I would date, and men that I would marry. Few men are in the middle of this list. Of course, someone needs to fall in-between in order for me to consider dating them, but I can't figure out why these two "lists" vary so much.
3. I now know some people guys just aren't worth it. I mean, I appreciate you buying me a drink for my birthday and calling me the most beautiful girl you have ever seen- but no, I would never go home with you.
4. I have started to refer to boys as men. Goodness, I'm getting old.
Discoveries that don't involve men..
1. I love planning gatherings, even if they aren't successful.
2. I can do anything with enough prayer. I donated plasma, have came close to meeting my fundraising goal for Niger, and even have done a few summer class assignments that I thought would kill me, lived alone... etc.
3. I can deal without structure and organization much better than two months ago. My desk at work is a mess, but I understand my system. I can't handle being tidy, unless it's my house, but even then I always make changes. I can make plans at the last minute, and not be let down when people cancel on me.
4. I can comfortably talk to people about my faith and journey to be more Christ-like. It used to be hard for me, but now I can tell when I am connected and just talk about my faith and the implications for my life.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Berry Pie
b
3 cups Strawberries
2 cups raspberries
1 cup blackberries
1 cup blueberries
2/3 c water divided
3/4 c sugar
1 envelope unflavored gelatin
1/4 c raspberry
1 crust
Mix all berries and set aside.
Mix 1/3 cup water and sugar. Sprinkle gelatin on top, let set one minute. Boil remaining water and mix until dissolved. Wisk in jam until blended. Put mixture in fridge until think. Once thick, pour over berries and place in crust. Let set for one hour.
Sorry the pictures aren't in order! I don't know how to move pictures around!
Thursday, June 16, 2011
In an attempt to grow my hair faster, I would like to share my "hair care solutions with you!" Check out this picture of the hair on my shower wall, that's about 1/16 of what I lose every shower.. Follow these steps, and I think you will lose less hair, and have better hair!
1. The classic egg and olive oil mix. My hair takes two eggs and one tsp oil. Cover your hair in it and let it set for 15 mins. (it feels dry and gross) Then rinse it with COLD water.
2. Speaking of cold water, that's all I'm going to use on my hair now! Wish me luck, cold showers are my least favorite thing.
3. Shampoo. I have an olive oil, aloe, avocado mix. I'm not sure if I will stick with this yet.
4. Don't comb your hair while it's wet (I'll have to tell you how this works for me...
5. Don't use any product or heat, and no hair ties. (Again, we shall see..)
Share any other tips! Also keep in mind that my hair is un-manageable and curly/wavy/messy.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Sins.
As Christians, we must be critical of each other, as well as ourselves. We often take our sin lightly because we have this ever-loving, always forgiving God. We think He will stand by our side no matter what. While this is true, we are the chosen crowd. We have chosen to follow Christ, and should therefore do everything in our power (as well as His) to live closer to Him everyday.
Jesus died on a cross. He suffered a painful death without even wincing for our sin. Yet, we can't do anything but rationalize our choices and make up excuses for the sin in our life.
What are some sinful things in your life you aren't taking seriously? I'll list mine below, for others to hold me accountable to with hopes that you will critically look into your own lives as well.
1. Support. I need verbal support or people to be around all the time. Rather than relying on God, or close Christian support, I will rely on anyone who will listen.
2. Along with support, I try a little too hard to make people accept me. I don't "change" who I am, but I am so versatile I often feel like people don't get the "whole picture." I also always yearn to have friends- rather than relying on God's love to fill my heart.
3. Attention to biblical time. I often find myself saying "I'll look at His word later." I should yearn to be exposed to His word whenever my heart feels pulled. The Bible isn't something that should be put off or pushed to one large reading on a Saturday afternoon.
Jesus died on a cross. He suffered a painful death without even wincing for our sin. Yet, we can't do anything but rationalize our choices and make up excuses for the sin in our life.
What are some sinful things in your life you aren't taking seriously? I'll list mine below, for others to hold me accountable to with hopes that you will critically look into your own lives as well.
1. Support. I need verbal support or people to be around all the time. Rather than relying on God, or close Christian support, I will rely on anyone who will listen.
2. Along with support, I try a little too hard to make people accept me. I don't "change" who I am, but I am so versatile I often feel like people don't get the "whole picture." I also always yearn to have friends- rather than relying on God's love to fill my heart.
3. Attention to biblical time. I often find myself saying "I'll look at His word later." I should yearn to be exposed to His word whenever my heart feels pulled. The Bible isn't something that should be put off or pushed to one large reading on a Saturday afternoon.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
My Walk & Niger
This was a conversation via skype with my dad that transformed my life. I was in China. I felt alone, I was with a boyfriend that I had been dating for nearly two years, but I struggled with him being a "non-believer." He was practically everything I wanted in life, but both of us knew things were changing.
My faith was taking leaps. I had been to Mexico on missions, and was preparing for a trip to Haiti. I was learning how to walk for God everyday and become more like Jesus. I had time in China to read my Bible and form my own opinions. Mike and I broke up on my Birthday. It wasn't as tragic as I had expected, in fact the hardest part was hugging his mom at the airport.
God has given me a love for working with Children. When I graduated high school, I thought the only option would be teaching. I never looked into anything else. I never looked at leaving Iowa. Pella was a huge leap. As my faith changed, God gave me a love for the world. All of the Children of the world. As of now, I am not positive what my life will lead after graduation. I may teach, I may continue my education, I may... It's not in my hands, but in the hands of the higher power.
If asked, "why do you feel you need to go so far away to evangelize?" I now have an answer:
I go where God needs me. I am willing to be a servant of him for all of the days of my life. I want to live like Jesus everyday, and live like the people of the world to know their desires and match them to the Kingdoms. Even if my life does not lead to international work, I believe that God is using me for multiple purposes, and I will be able to relate to others even from a small town in Iowa.
On August 28th, I will be leaving for Niger, West Africa. I will be spending my time home schooling Tom Johnson's three children as well as learning, living and acting as a follower of Christ in my everyday life to show others the light I was shown. I am in need of lots of prater and some fundraising still needs done.
To donate visit: https://www.rca.org/volunteersupport and choose Ashley Kinkade
(the start of my faith story has multiple layers and factors, apologies if you have heard different ones)
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
money
The chicken reports the scattering stair throughout our composite.
I'm sure this is the most random post you will EVER see from me. :) I have decided to start blogging for money. With the upcoming interest in my travels to Niger, as well as my exciting life, I hope this will help some of the funding of my trip.
I'm sure this is the most random post you will EVER see from me. :) I have decided to start blogging for money. With the upcoming interest in my travels to Niger, as well as my exciting life, I hope this will help some of the funding of my trip.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Expert Traveler
Today, the doctor told me I was an expert and experienced traveler. *gasp* I never thought anyone would say that. Much to my surprise, he didn't really go over any (or all) of the food and water precautions when traveling because he said I "know the drill."
In addition, I had to get a yellow fever shot. Shots freak me out. I swear, I can feel them inside of me. The nurse walks in (mind you, I have NEVER been to this clinic) and shoves the needle into the back of my arm with no warning, no cleaning the area, and no gloves... I didn't know what to say, other than.. "I guess being sanitary never was important to me..."
My rant to the doctor: Niger will be different. I made have appeared knowledgeable about types of anti-malarial and known the area I was staying in, but I'm sure I could have learned something from you. I often feel like travelers who appear "well-informed" get the short end of the stick.
In addition, I had to get a yellow fever shot. Shots freak me out. I swear, I can feel them inside of me. The nurse walks in (mind you, I have NEVER been to this clinic) and shoves the needle into the back of my arm with no warning, no cleaning the area, and no gloves... I didn't know what to say, other than.. "I guess being sanitary never was important to me..."
My rant to the doctor: Niger will be different. I made have appeared knowledgeable about types of anti-malarial and known the area I was staying in, but I'm sure I could have learned something from you. I often feel like travelers who appear "well-informed" get the short end of the stick.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Andys 23rd
Dearest Andy Jensen,
Today is your birthday. I recorded an EPIC video on your facebook wall, but it wouldn't let me post.. so you get your very own blog post. I hope that you have a wonderful 23rd Birthday, and I hope we can run into each other in Des Moines Wednesday.
Thanks you always texting me. Thanks for being in my "top 5 most awesome people I know." Thanks for making me smile everyday. Thanks for understanding what I'm saying (either because 1. it doesn't make sense, or 2. you just get me.).
It's your Birthday, but you aren't getting old, yet. Old is something you can feel, and you can't feel it yet. Old is when you sit at your desk and don't fidget or freak out when Ke$ha comes on. Face it, "old" means you don't listen to Ke$ha. Old is what you aren't.
love,
Ashley Kinkade
Thankful
I'm thankful for...
... Summer Classes.
As much as I complain about them not working/the teacher being unprepared/taking too long/etc. I am thankful for them. Without them, I would not be leaving for Niger in 2 months. And it's nice to be able to take classes on your own time. I love learning, I apparently, also love to complain.
...People who listen to me.
Sometimes I just want to rant. I have a few (okay, one) person who lets me do that. They are very observant of my behavior and the changes.
... People who talk to me.
I love hearing about your lives, sorry if I don't come off that way..
... Music that describes my every move.
It gets me through the day.
... New/old friendships.
Right now, I feel like most of my friends like 45,654 miles away, but they are still awesome <3.
... Great work experiences.
As much as I wish I could be outside on nice days, I love having a nice office where I'm not forced to do hard labor for little money.
... Being able to choose religion.
On the days I am frustrated I can really look into life as being something deeper than what's here. Life wouldn't be worth it if God weren't pulling me through.
... Food, and an awesome apartment.
... Farm life.
I get to go trail riding this weekend! I'm still shocked that some people don't know I used to live on a farm.
... The chance to take chances.
I'm mainly talking about relationships, and I'm sorry for being blunt, but I'm happy to realize things would have never worked out rather than never knowing if it was "intended." As much as I'm sick of risking it, I'm glad there's always other options.
(okay, so that last one sounded a little *cocky*, but to rephrase it, I'm glad I don't have to be on one of those shows where you HAVE to pick between three people. I'm more of a fan of "learning to love someone.")
... Summer Classes.
As much as I complain about them not working/the teacher being unprepared/taking too long/etc. I am thankful for them. Without them, I would not be leaving for Niger in 2 months. And it's nice to be able to take classes on your own time. I love learning, I apparently, also love to complain.
...People who listen to me.
Sometimes I just want to rant. I have a few (okay, one) person who lets me do that. They are very observant of my behavior and the changes.
... People who talk to me.
I love hearing about your lives, sorry if I don't come off that way..
... Music that describes my every move.
It gets me through the day.
... New/old friendships.
Right now, I feel like most of my friends like 45,654 miles away, but they are still awesome <3.
... Great work experiences.
As much as I wish I could be outside on nice days, I love having a nice office where I'm not forced to do hard labor for little money.
... Being able to choose religion.
On the days I am frustrated I can really look into life as being something deeper than what's here. Life wouldn't be worth it if God weren't pulling me through.
... Food, and an awesome apartment.
... Farm life.
I get to go trail riding this weekend! I'm still shocked that some people don't know I used to live on a farm.
... The chance to take chances.
I'm mainly talking about relationships, and I'm sorry for being blunt, but I'm happy to realize things would have never worked out rather than never knowing if it was "intended." As much as I'm sick of risking it, I'm glad there's always other options.
(okay, so that last one sounded a little *cocky*, but to rephrase it, I'm glad I don't have to be on one of those shows where you HAVE to pick between three people. I'm more of a fan of "learning to love someone.")
Friday, June 3, 2011
Confidence
The submissive Ashley has been learning to stand up for things lately. I have told people to leave my apartment when I didn't want them over anymore. I've stood up for my beliefs. I have told people how I actually feel about situations. I've let on that my life isn't always perfect. It's not really confidence, but I'm starting to come out as a person.. which is a new concept.
I feel like I grew up a lot later than most. I have been thinking about how I got to where I am in life, and I am absolutely baffled that I didn't learn some things sooner in life. I never even looked into other majors, or schools. I don't think it would have changed things, but it is strange to me that I never looked.
I feel like I grew up a lot later than most. I have been thinking about how I got to where I am in life, and I am absolutely baffled that I didn't learn some things sooner in life. I never even looked into other majors, or schools. I don't think it would have changed things, but it is strange to me that I never looked.
Apartment Happenings
This week things went better than last.
1. I bought a FULL SET of silverware. It's not even plastic.
2. I stayed up until a normal time.
3. I took out my trash before it smelled.
4. I paid bills, thanks mom!
5. I had a variety of food for leftovers, and none of it was moldy!
a. I also finished AN ENTIRE loaf of bread.
Some things to work on:
Not falling asleep on my couch.
Not getting pink eye EVER again.
Being more productive when alone, I have some books I'd really enjoy.
Making new friends.
Not losing my phone.
1. I bought a FULL SET of silverware. It's not even plastic.
2. I stayed up until a normal time.
3. I took out my trash before it smelled.
4. I paid bills, thanks mom!
5. I had a variety of food for leftovers, and none of it was moldy!
a. I also finished AN ENTIRE loaf of bread.
Some things to work on:
Not falling asleep on my couch.
Not getting pink eye EVER again.
Being more productive when alone, I have some books I'd really enjoy.
Making new friends.
Not losing my phone.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Just to update everyone.
Things have been going on lately that I can't even begin to describe. I feel like (almost) everyone is using me.
Everything makes me want to start crying. My overly motivated self is gone. I pull away from everyone. I try and call people and no one answers. I ask what's new in others lives and it only turns into me complaining about things in my life. I'm asking about your life because I want to think of something else. anything else. I'll talk about my own life, but I don't even know where to start.
I have been removing facebook friends like crazy. It's supposed to be a great summer. I'm living in Ames. I'm working at my dream job, and I still feel like I'm falling.
Everything makes me want to start crying. My overly motivated self is gone. I pull away from everyone. I try and call people and no one answers. I ask what's new in others lives and it only turns into me complaining about things in my life. I'm asking about your life because I want to think of something else. anything else. I'll talk about my own life, but I don't even know where to start.
I have been removing facebook friends like crazy. It's supposed to be a great summer. I'm living in Ames. I'm working at my dream job, and I still feel like I'm falling.
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