Sous Baker

Sometimes God gives you a little hint of a blessing before it comes in full. I went to a St. Toms New Student Overnighter during my freshman year. At the time, I didn't feel like it was that helpful in welcoming me in the St. Toms community, but I was wrong. In my group is my now amazing friend Emily. I would eventually run into Emily at the Bible study I attended last year and now lead.

Amazing things about Emily:

1) Emily stress bakes. This is a completely selfish thing I love about her. So when she's stressed out, she bakes and brings the goods to Ignite. Man, the are always delicious. I truly feel it has made our Ignite group more connected. Food has power. Emily is just a fantastic chef in general. She has invited us over a couple of times and made delicious food that makes my tummy happy. She is a giver and asks nothing in return other than smiles and thank yous.

2) Emily has the most genuine friend and family love. The best way I can explain it is nothing about her care and actions for her friends and family feels self-serving. It just feels like selflessly loving.

3) Emily celebrates simple joys. She is a small-town Indiana girl. I love hearing her stories relating to the Gospel. She finds joy in connections, quotes, a single smile, etc. She attributes simple joys to answered prayers. I'm not saying she isn't deep or extraordinary. Rather, I am saying she has an extraordinary appreciation for the many small blessings God provides deep in her heart. I'd bet it's a quality she recognize how awesome it is in herself, but when she cares about her friends and family and shares stories the way she does, it is amazing.

4) Emily is inviting. She is often inviting people to her apartment, to pancakes, to join her in doing something, to PUDM. I think people underestimate the power of invitations. Emily constantly inviting people makes people feel like they have a place, including me.

Emily:

I am beyond thankful to have you in my life. You have taught me to be a better friend. You have taught me to bring my insulin to Ignite. You have given me so many smiles and laughs. Those are things I cannot repay or thank you enough for. Mondays wouldn't be as good without you! Much love friend.