April 18th

Though it isn't really what I would choose to talk about right now today is significant, and to ignore so would just feel inconsiderate of all the Lord has accomplished.

Some of you know instantly, some don't. So instead of going into any elaborate story let me come out quickly and say today is the 2 year anniversary of the assault. I hope this isn't a surprise to anyone; I'd feel awful if this is the startling first way you've heard, so of course, please talk to me. Just call my number or message me on facebook, but here's what I want to do now that I've hurried through that announcement...

Two years in review.

I'll be leaving a lot out, but these are the parts that are most apparent to me as milestones at the moment. 

April 18, 2008: THCF's junior high Purity Night at which I was supposed to be a speaking to the girls about Purity, the assault occurred the afternoon before I arrived. 

August 2008: I began school at Baylor University as an Accounting major in the Honors Residential College and Baylor Interdisciplinary Core program.

Thanksgiving 2008: after having talked to girls I was in Bible study with, I planned, and then failed, to tell my family about the assault.

December 30th, 2008: after receiving a deficiency notice from the University my parents checked through my Baylor accounts, found a letter in which I had written of the assault, and approached me on it. We decided I would not return to Baylor for the spring semester.

January 2009: I had my first counseling appointment and Mom and I flew to Baylor together to pack up my things. During my check out of school, we met Melanie Smith; an academic advisor in the Hankamer Business School, and Dean Mark Dunn. Both of them expressed a desire to see me back at Baylor, and I found myself incredibly encouraged by them in the midst of feeling "just not cut out" for the school.

January 2009-April 2009: FAMILY, counseling, lots of God time, and an interview to work at Hume Lake Christian Camps

May 2009: last counseling appointment, Mom and Mary Ann and I head to Hume Lake to drop me off

Summer 2009: Hume Lake, I learned that God had some amazing appointments set for me that summer. Shared with a lot of girls in ways that were divinely orchestrated.

August 2009: I officially heard I'd be back at Baylor!!! Spent a few days home and headed back to Texas. 

Fall Semester, 2009: I felt incredibly challenged to prove I did belong back, and as affirmation won "Most Likely to Succeed" from my business class of 250! Melanie Smith introduces me to Baylor Business Women, a key reason I won the success award. 

Spring Semester, 2010: I become president of Baylor Business Women, and am reintroduced to Dean Mark Dunn who recognizes me and welcomes me back. 

Friday, April 16th, 2010: the Friday that would be the two-year-mark of the assault. Preston-my boyfriend- and I have a movie and cooking night.

Today, April 18th, 2010: the numeric two-year mark, I post this to declare ... Oh how good and great is our GOD!

 I'll post soon about the more recent updates, but for today this review felt appropriate. Thank you for pouring into me in my need, and celebrating with me in the victories,

Allison