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Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Monday, April 9, 2012
Easter Weekend!
This past Easter weekend was super fun. I had the joy of staying on St.Simons with my family the week prior due to my spring break at school. It was just Molly and Mommy for the most part during the day and even though it was a struggle at times (props to all the single mama's and daddy's out there) it was such an honor and blessing to be with Molly all the day long.
Easter Sunday consisted of a walk on the pier with coffee and a good friend (plus lil molly), rushing and packing, sitting in a cramped tiny airplane with a very active toddler and seeing my love at the airport! After that we proceeded to lunch and an afternoon nap, Easter egg hunt at Grammy M's and Granddaddy and a wonderful Easter supper.
It was a beautiful day, to celebrate a beautiful sacrifice that gives me life every single day and even after death!
Easter Sunday consisted of a walk on the pier with coffee and a good friend (plus lil molly), rushing and packing, sitting in a cramped tiny airplane with a very active toddler and seeing my love at the airport! After that we proceeded to lunch and an afternoon nap, Easter egg hunt at Grammy M's and Granddaddy and a wonderful Easter supper.
It was a beautiful day, to celebrate a beautiful sacrifice that gives me life every single day and even after death!
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Monday, March 26, 2012
Weekend Faves
In no particular order...
1. cooler weather in Na Georgia
2. chocolate chip chess squares
3. watching Lost with allen Sunday night
4. finding adorable baby clothes for 50cents a pop at a community yard sale
5. molly's voice
6. molly insisting she wear her bikini around the house
7. family picnic on the front lawn
8. buying wildflower seeds to plant in hanging baskets on front porch
9. spending my entire weekend with my family
1. cooler weather in Na Georgia
2. chocolate chip chess squares
3. watching Lost with allen Sunday night
4. finding adorable baby clothes for 50cents a pop at a community yard sale
5. molly's voice
6. molly insisting she wear her bikini around the house
7. family picnic on the front lawn
8. buying wildflower seeds to plant in hanging baskets on front porch
9. spending my entire weekend with my family
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
blank slate
I have so many thoughts and ideas in my heart that I want to put on here. Several times a day I think " I need to blog about that or I want to share this with others etc."
Then something happens. I click on my blog to update a post and I draw a blank. It's not that I cannot remember what it is I want to share it is that I have lost the desire to do so. I still think that it is important or funny or valuable it is just that something is stopping me.
I struggle with all things hidden. It is not like I have some outward addiction where people can count how many drinks I have or see damage done to my body by using substances frequently. It is the hidden problems that that remain unseen. Pride, selfishness, lack of follow through, and comparison. Not every day and not every week but they are there, lurking in the background.
This morning I woke up feeling tangled up in all of those plus a few more. When I was younger my mom rented a movie for me, Gidget and I loved it. I loved the clothes and hairstyles and the technicolor goodness of old fashioned life. There is a scene in the beginning where Gidget gets tangled up in kelp out in the ocean in an effort to show a group of people that she can "fit in" with them. Now, I could draw all sorts of comparisons to that in my real life (both present and past) but instead I just wanna say that is how I felt this morning. Like all the hidden stuff was drowning me. There was just this heaviness around me. An outsider could look at my life and say "how is that possible? You have so much? A family that loves you, a home that is safe and sound, a good job etc." Nonetheless it was still there.
So I sat down in my favorite chair and wrote in my journal. I wrote to Jesus. I told him how I felt and that I need His help. I wrote out promises of God's love for me and tried to remind myself of how He see's me and wants me to be.
On my way to work I had my windows rolled down and my music playing loudly. As I was driving and singing loudly a memory flashed in my mind. One of me in high school driving around in my car with my windows down and my music playing loudly. Thinking I was so cool listening to Bloodhound Gang on tape.
And He reminded me of what He has done for me.
Fast forward ten years and I am driving in my car with my windows down and my music playing loudly. And instead of songs full of angst,sex and obscenities I am listening to words that lift up Jesus and declare His Glory and our good. I am revived by those truths and by the relationship I have with Him. My breath was taken away. I couldn't believe that he would bring to my mind an isolated memory that only the Lord and I shared of me as a mixed up teenager. It was really awesome and so personal.
I know this is kind of a mixed up post - to whoever may read it but it is my heart right now.
I feel as if I am going through a refining process of sorts and on the verge of something. I feel like I am being pulled this way and that way and trying really hard to just stay close to Him.
Then something happens. I click on my blog to update a post and I draw a blank. It's not that I cannot remember what it is I want to share it is that I have lost the desire to do so. I still think that it is important or funny or valuable it is just that something is stopping me.
I struggle with all things hidden. It is not like I have some outward addiction where people can count how many drinks I have or see damage done to my body by using substances frequently. It is the hidden problems that that remain unseen. Pride, selfishness, lack of follow through, and comparison. Not every day and not every week but they are there, lurking in the background.
This morning I woke up feeling tangled up in all of those plus a few more. When I was younger my mom rented a movie for me, Gidget and I loved it. I loved the clothes and hairstyles and the technicolor goodness of old fashioned life. There is a scene in the beginning where Gidget gets tangled up in kelp out in the ocean in an effort to show a group of people that she can "fit in" with them. Now, I could draw all sorts of comparisons to that in my real life (both present and past) but instead I just wanna say that is how I felt this morning. Like all the hidden stuff was drowning me. There was just this heaviness around me. An outsider could look at my life and say "how is that possible? You have so much? A family that loves you, a home that is safe and sound, a good job etc." Nonetheless it was still there.
So I sat down in my favorite chair and wrote in my journal. I wrote to Jesus. I told him how I felt and that I need His help. I wrote out promises of God's love for me and tried to remind myself of how He see's me and wants me to be.
On my way to work I had my windows rolled down and my music playing loudly. As I was driving and singing loudly a memory flashed in my mind. One of me in high school driving around in my car with my windows down and my music playing loudly. Thinking I was so cool listening to Bloodhound Gang on tape.
And He reminded me of what He has done for me.
Fast forward ten years and I am driving in my car with my windows down and my music playing loudly. And instead of songs full of angst,sex and obscenities I am listening to words that lift up Jesus and declare His Glory and our good. I am revived by those truths and by the relationship I have with Him. My breath was taken away. I couldn't believe that he would bring to my mind an isolated memory that only the Lord and I shared of me as a mixed up teenager. It was really awesome and so personal.
I know this is kind of a mixed up post - to whoever may read it but it is my heart right now.
I feel as if I am going through a refining process of sorts and on the verge of something. I feel like I am being pulled this way and that way and trying really hard to just stay close to Him.
Friday, February 24, 2012
A shepherd looks at Psalm 23
I borrowed a book from my gram. It is rocking my world right now. It is called "A shepherd looks at Psalm 23" by Phillip Keller.
Maybe I am like last on the train to read this book and discover Christ's unique character through it but if you haven't heard of it check it out. It is an old book, one that is yellowed with age but holds truth in it that I have never known before.
It was written by a man who grew up in Africa herding sheep. He takes the famous psalm written by David and breaks it down from a shepherds perspective. I have only gotten through the first chapter but it is really teaching me a lot.
Here a few things that have jumped out at me:
"Many who either read or study the Scriptures in the 20th century come from an urban, man-made environment. They are often unfamiliar with such subjects as livestock, crops, and fruit etc. They miss much of the truth taught in God's word because they are not familiar with such things as sheep, wheat, soil or grapes."
"Our view of Him is often too small--- too cramped--too provincial--to human. And because it we feel unwilling to allow Him to have authority or control--much less outright ownership of our lives."
Talking about David's proclamation 'The LORD is my shepherd': " after all, he knew from firsthand experience that the lot in life of any particular sheep depend on the type of man who owned it. Some men were gentle, kind, intelligent, brae and selfless in their devotion to their stock. Under one man sheep would struggle, starve and suffer endless hardship. In another's care they would flourish and thrive contentedly."
" His ownership of me as a human being is legitimate----simply because it is He who brought me into being and no one is better to able to understand or care for me"
I am so enjoying these truths as I read about our Lord the Good Shepherd.
Maybe I am like last on the train to read this book and discover Christ's unique character through it but if you haven't heard of it check it out. It is an old book, one that is yellowed with age but holds truth in it that I have never known before.
It was written by a man who grew up in Africa herding sheep. He takes the famous psalm written by David and breaks it down from a shepherds perspective. I have only gotten through the first chapter but it is really teaching me a lot.
Here a few things that have jumped out at me:
"Many who either read or study the Scriptures in the 20th century come from an urban, man-made environment. They are often unfamiliar with such subjects as livestock, crops, and fruit etc. They miss much of the truth taught in God's word because they are not familiar with such things as sheep, wheat, soil or grapes."
"Our view of Him is often too small--- too cramped--too provincial--to human. And because it we feel unwilling to allow Him to have authority or control--much less outright ownership of our lives."
Talking about David's proclamation 'The LORD is my shepherd': " after all, he knew from firsthand experience that the lot in life of any particular sheep depend on the type of man who owned it. Some men were gentle, kind, intelligent, brae and selfless in their devotion to their stock. Under one man sheep would struggle, starve and suffer endless hardship. In another's care they would flourish and thrive contentedly."
" His ownership of me as a human being is legitimate----simply because it is He who brought me into being and no one is better to able to understand or care for me"
I am so enjoying these truths as I read about our Lord the Good Shepherd.
plans this weekend
I don't really have any plans this weekend. I mean I have plans like: laundry, sleeping, playing in the park, reading bedtime stories, worship, watching lost (we are so sucked into it, its bad:) but that is about it.
Last weekend we went down to st. simons island to see my sweet Gram who was in the hospital and spend some time with extended family. Thats a post for another day but in the meantime drool over some of these yummy lunches/dinners I would love to make for my family this weekend. All courtsey of pinterest.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
fun with lovey
fun times this weekend with molly and lovey
baby girl loves to stand on couches and chairs
such a lil dare devil!
how i love thee
jesus is so gracious. so so so gracious. HE is why i breathe.
i am so so so imperfect. i am so mixed up and messed up. i was dead. i was really dead.
now i am alive. i am ALIVE. only by HIM can i breathe. i can breathe.
i am so so so imperfect. i am so mixed up and messed up. i was dead. i was really dead.
now i am alive. i am ALIVE. only by HIM can i breathe. i can breathe.
His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.
2 Peter 1: 3
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
our little valentine
we spent our valentines together as a family with no electricity. none. i complained even though i know that many people around the world live with out electricity on a daily basis. it messed up my plans. how were we going to stay warm? what about dinner? i had groceries to put in the fridge? what about molly's sound machine? blah blah blah.
thank goodness allen is my other half. he made things infinitely better by finding candles and lanterns from old camping trips. we thankfully also have natural gas that heats our water and our fireplace and stove so issues like dinner and bath time worked themselves out. molly's sound machine is actually an old iphone with a sound machine app and it was fully charged so that worked out fine too. it was cold outside so some groceries were able to say out on the back porch and allen grilled our steaks on the grill. we had fun.
allen said several times, " we will always remember this valentines day when we had no electricity" and he was right. i will remember lighting candles in our kitchen, dining room and living room. i will remember bathing molly with a lantern as our only light. i will remember us rummaging through the fridge/freezer as fast as we can so that cold air would not escape. i will remember that in the middle of our dinner when the electricity came back on and we cheered and then i asked allen to turn the lights back off because if was more fun talking to one another and eating by candlelight.
our Jesus takes care of us and was patient with me while i struggled with being a brat about not having electricity. i knew that it wasn't the end of the world, i knew that it was more important that i had my family and that we had heat from the fireplace and we were safe. however i still struggled. i still wanted MY plans and i sulked when they didn't happen. HE is always patient and slow to anger. he helped me turn my attitude around and used my sweet husband to help that process.
it was a perfect valentines day. absolutely perfect.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Monday, February 13, 2012
weekend faves
here are a few of my weekend faves in no particular order
1. walking around the neighborhood with the dogs on a really cold Sunday afternoon
2. my mother in law surprising us and bringing over warm tortilla soup for dinner
3. re-arranging molly's room
4. discovering more of molly's sense of humor
5. girl talk with a good friend Friday night
6. clean sheets on our bed
7. our go to Sunday lunch: grilled cheese and ham with sriracha
1. walking around the neighborhood with the dogs on a really cold Sunday afternoon
2. my mother in law surprising us and bringing over warm tortilla soup for dinner
3. re-arranging molly's room
4. discovering more of molly's sense of humor
5. girl talk with a good friend Friday night
6. clean sheets on our bed
7. our go to Sunday lunch: grilled cheese and ham with sriracha
Thursday, February 9, 2012
seasons of life
I read a quote today that said " childhood is the most beautiful of all of life's seasons" (anonymous) and I started thinking about the different "seasons" of my life. It is amazing to think of how different each season has been for me as I have grown up and become no longer a girl but a woman. If I am honest with myself (and you) I still to prefer to call myself a girl because woman seems old and mature but in reality I am a woman. When I was a girl I thought about myself mainly. I didn't see very far beyond my own needs and wants. I was given many opportunities to serve others in the name of Jesus and that absolutely speared me on towards living as a woman who saw others rather than just self. I thought about cute clothes and boys and what others thought of me. I had a hard time imagining myself with a husband or with a child and the thought of buying a house seemed scary.
I still think buying/selling a house is scary. I still want to wear cute clothes and I worry sometimes about how others see me. However, I know that I married the best man God had for me and that being a mom was my destiny. I think back on the hours that I prayed to God and worried about what I was going to "major" in or do with my life and now I know. I am going to be a mom. Part time to students on a daily basis who struggle with reading and math and behavior issues but also full time to my own child who I love and adore a million times more than myself. I know that saving money and working with what I have in my closet is more valuable and important than wearing the worlds cutest pair of skinny jeans. I know that giving up what I want is way harder but so worth it. I used to have anxiety about how others saw my outward appearance and now I really only care about how my heart looks.
I used to pray all the time that God would mold me into the woman of God he created me to be and I finally am beginning to believe and see that He is doing just that.
**picture of Ariccia, Italy where I spent the summer of 2004 learning and loving all things Italian
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
my favorite part of yesterday
my favorite part of yesterday occurred at 6am.
after an early morning awakening at 4am by our little one and our attempts to help her fall back asleep I finally caved and brought her into our bed at 6. She nestled down next to me and snuggled up beside me. She sighed and immediately began snoring. She stretched her arms out above her head and in her sleep searched for my hand.
it was such a beautiful moment. I was struggling to keep my eyes open but I really wanted to remember everything. The look on her face, the soft pajamas and the paci moving up and down with each suck. Her tiny fingers curled around my hand and the way her wispy hair fell across her face.
oh my goodness I am so thankful for that moment. it has been etched in my heart forever. being molly's mama was what i was made to do.
after an early morning awakening at 4am by our little one and our attempts to help her fall back asleep I finally caved and brought her into our bed at 6. She nestled down next to me and snuggled up beside me. She sighed and immediately began snoring. She stretched her arms out above her head and in her sleep searched for my hand.
it was such a beautiful moment. I was struggling to keep my eyes open but I really wanted to remember everything. The look on her face, the soft pajamas and the paci moving up and down with each suck. Her tiny fingers curled around my hand and the way her wispy hair fell across her face.
oh my goodness I am so thankful for that moment. it has been etched in my heart forever. being molly's mama was what i was made to do.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
big hair = good times
this morning on the way to work i opted out of my normal routine. my normal routine being either a) listen to worship music or b) listen to NPR radio.
i instead listened to Cher. it was fabulous. i had such a great time singing in my car. i forgot how good it felt to sing to like that.
i just wish i could pull of that hairstyle of hers...wouldn't that be something?
Thursday, January 26, 2012
a new love lately
coffee.
i am picky about my coffee. let me rephrase that, i am picky about the creamer that goes in my coffee.
my favorite half and half is from Harris Teeter. The only place i can find it is on St. Simon's Island. Where is another Harris Teeter??
i am almost out of my stash that i bought over new years... but since 1.1.12 i have really been enjoying my coffee...
i am picky about my coffee. let me rephrase that, i am picky about the creamer that goes in my coffee.
my favorite half and half is from Harris Teeter. The only place i can find it is on St. Simon's Island. Where is another Harris Teeter??
i am almost out of my stash that i bought over new years... but since 1.1.12 i have really been enjoying my coffee...
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
I learned two things last night
In an effort to be transparent (because why not? in a world where people play pretend and wear masks, let this place not be just another place for dress up and false security) I will share two things that I learned last night about myself.
1. I need better (i.e. healthier) ways to cope with stress and disappointment.
2. I cannot serve both God and Money. I know the verse like I know the back of my own hand but yet, I am still trying to learn the lesson.
It is so hard. It is hard for me. Its easy for me to feel secure because of a number in my bank account or a pay check. It is hard for me to let ALL my hope be in Jesus Christ alone. He knows that. We talk about it, and he is gently teaching me but it is not an easy lesson to learn. My heart is willing by my flesh is so weak. Just this Sunday our pastor spoke truth to me (even though i did not know it at the time). He was talking about having HOPE in Jesus Christ and he gave lots of examples of where people find their hope. In their marriage, in their job status/title, in their home, in their bank account, in the future etc. Little did I know that the Holy Spirit would reveal in just a few short days that my hope is in the wrong place. Not ALL my hope mind you, but a good portion of it.
Good thing that God is bigger than me and bigger than my mistakes and mess ups. Good thing that when you ask for something in Jesus name that it will be given to you - and I know what my heart truly wants is in align with his good and pleasing perfect will. I can HOPE in that this morning.
1. I need better (i.e. healthier) ways to cope with stress and disappointment.
2. I cannot serve both God and Money. I know the verse like I know the back of my own hand but yet, I am still trying to learn the lesson.
It is so hard. It is hard for me. Its easy for me to feel secure because of a number in my bank account or a pay check. It is hard for me to let ALL my hope be in Jesus Christ alone. He knows that. We talk about it, and he is gently teaching me but it is not an easy lesson to learn. My heart is willing by my flesh is so weak. Just this Sunday our pastor spoke truth to me (even though i did not know it at the time). He was talking about having HOPE in Jesus Christ and he gave lots of examples of where people find their hope. In their marriage, in their job status/title, in their home, in their bank account, in the future etc. Little did I know that the Holy Spirit would reveal in just a few short days that my hope is in the wrong place. Not ALL my hope mind you, but a good portion of it.
Good thing that God is bigger than me and bigger than my mistakes and mess ups. Good thing that when you ask for something in Jesus name that it will be given to you - and I know what my heart truly wants is in align with his good and pleasing perfect will. I can HOPE in that this morning.
Friday, January 20, 2012
Why not be random?
1. i really wish that leggings could pass as pants because they are so darn comfortable.
2. i suggested that my students and i tweet each other about a new show that is starting on TV because it follows a book we started reading in class.
3. i am pretty sure they think i am LAME.
4. i have been drinking more water, i am starting to get used to it but will always prefer diet Dr pepper
5. i read the book "heaven is for real" it was a good book
6. kettle corn popcorn really is the best. why don't they sell that in the movie theaters?
7. my new hairdresser is amazing. for real.
8. molly hit me in the head last Sunday in front of about 20 people because she was mad at me. hello welcome to toddler hood mama!
9. i am in the market for a new bible that is compact but not tiny. that is what i am hoping for valentines day (plus a morning of sleeping in until 10)
10. God is awesome.
2. i suggested that my students and i tweet each other about a new show that is starting on TV because it follows a book we started reading in class.
3. i am pretty sure they think i am LAME.
4. i have been drinking more water, i am starting to get used to it but will always prefer diet Dr pepper
5. i read the book "heaven is for real" it was a good book
6. kettle corn popcorn really is the best. why don't they sell that in the movie theaters?
7. my new hairdresser is amazing. for real.
8. molly hit me in the head last Sunday in front of about 20 people because she was mad at me. hello welcome to toddler hood mama!
9. i am in the market for a new bible that is compact but not tiny. that is what i am hoping for valentines day (plus a morning of sleeping in until 10)
10. God is awesome.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
police, cheesecake,and diapers
Last week was quite a week. Some adjectives to describe the week I had would be: busy, fun, long, short, scary, confusing, enjoyable, encouraging, loving, happy.
It all started on Thursday. If you have ever ridden in the car with me you know I am not afraid to use my horn. It was built into the car for a good reason is my philosophy. Now, I am not someone who randomly honks at other drives just because they don't turn on their turn signal but I will use my horn when someone cuts me off, veers into my lane or is sitting at a red light for a looooooooooooooooong time. I am sorry if those kind of people annoy you or cause you to roll your eyes but yes I am one of them.
.....anyways I was driving home from work and this car pulled out in front of me going about 20 mph. I was going about 50 (speed limit) so it was first dangerous and then secondly annoying. So I honked my horn. I might have layed on my horn a little too. When I could I passed the driver and went on my merry way. Except he was really mad. He didn't like that I honked my horn at him. Not one bit. So he pulled up beside me and started screaming at me, throwing his hands in the air, getting in front of me and slowing way down so I was forced to go the same speed limit. I was starting to get a little worried and in fact fearful as we pulled up to a stop light. Allen told me to call the police so that is what I did. I had to file a police report etc. It made the afternoon more hectic than I would have liked but I am okay and I really hope that angry driver man gets some help before he has another freak out on the road.
Friday night I celebrated a big birthday for one of my best friends. I met some new people and really had a great time getting to know them. We stayed out LATE and ate cheesecake and sang happy birthday. It was so much fun.
Saturday morning molly woke us up earlier than normal crying and crying. I think we drifted in and out of sleep for about 15 minutes before we actually went to get her. As I picked her up out of her crib I noticed that she was soaking wet so I took her to her changing table to put on a fresh diaper and pajamas. Well apparently she stored up all her peeing for nighttime and made her diaper explode. Have you ever seen the stuff that is inside the diaper? It is impossible to get off of a sticky, cold, screaming baby. Allen and I both were barely awake trying to figure out how to remedy the situation. I felt so stupid. Haha all part of the job title I suppose. We eventually ended up putting her in the bathroom sink with warm water and a washcloth. All before 7am. Yippie!
Besides all of that - molly is cutting her two top teeth and I am just hoping and praying that she doesn't look like a rabbit. She is walking more and talking up a storm and it is PURE JOY to my heart. Allen and I had a great weekend being married and trying to help each other out more by really paying attention to each other's needs and concerns. I got to take a nap when Molly napped on Sunday and talk to a dear friend who lives in Italy. I had the freedom to worship Jesus on Sunday night and to love on my neighbors and a stranger at goodwill. It was a fantastic weekend and I am so so so thankful that we had Monday off!
It all started on Thursday. If you have ever ridden in the car with me you know I am not afraid to use my horn. It was built into the car for a good reason is my philosophy. Now, I am not someone who randomly honks at other drives just because they don't turn on their turn signal but I will use my horn when someone cuts me off, veers into my lane or is sitting at a red light for a looooooooooooooooong time. I am sorry if those kind of people annoy you or cause you to roll your eyes but yes I am one of them.
.....anyways I was driving home from work and this car pulled out in front of me going about 20 mph. I was going about 50 (speed limit) so it was first dangerous and then secondly annoying. So I honked my horn. I might have layed on my horn a little too. When I could I passed the driver and went on my merry way. Except he was really mad. He didn't like that I honked my horn at him. Not one bit. So he pulled up beside me and started screaming at me, throwing his hands in the air, getting in front of me and slowing way down so I was forced to go the same speed limit. I was starting to get a little worried and in fact fearful as we pulled up to a stop light. Allen told me to call the police so that is what I did. I had to file a police report etc. It made the afternoon more hectic than I would have liked but I am okay and I really hope that angry driver man gets some help before he has another freak out on the road.
Friday night I celebrated a big birthday for one of my best friends. I met some new people and really had a great time getting to know them. We stayed out LATE and ate cheesecake and sang happy birthday. It was so much fun.
Saturday morning molly woke us up earlier than normal crying and crying. I think we drifted in and out of sleep for about 15 minutes before we actually went to get her. As I picked her up out of her crib I noticed that she was soaking wet so I took her to her changing table to put on a fresh diaper and pajamas. Well apparently she stored up all her peeing for nighttime and made her diaper explode. Have you ever seen the stuff that is inside the diaper? It is impossible to get off of a sticky, cold, screaming baby. Allen and I both were barely awake trying to figure out how to remedy the situation. I felt so stupid. Haha all part of the job title I suppose. We eventually ended up putting her in the bathroom sink with warm water and a washcloth. All before 7am. Yippie!
Besides all of that - molly is cutting her two top teeth and I am just hoping and praying that she doesn't look like a rabbit. She is walking more and talking up a storm and it is PURE JOY to my heart. Allen and I had a great weekend being married and trying to help each other out more by really paying attention to each other's needs and concerns. I got to take a nap when Molly napped on Sunday and talk to a dear friend who lives in Italy. I had the freedom to worship Jesus on Sunday night and to love on my neighbors and a stranger at goodwill. It was a fantastic weekend and I am so so so thankful that we had Monday off!
Thursday, January 12, 2012
he is the MOST personal God
Do you know how personal God is? Incredibly. Sometimes I forget this little known fact about Him and he kindly reminds me.
Take yesterday morning for example. I had the opportunity to take 10 minutes before I left the house and pour over Psalm 23. A verse that I had never really paid much attention to before stood out to me. Verse 5 says "you annoit my head with oil; my cup overflows." I asked God to make that true of me that day. I asked Him to write His words on my heart and to allow His word to not stay inside me but because of the overflow, pour out.
One the way to work I felt a little nudge from the Holy Spirit and decided to call a sweet friend to see if I could pray for her or encourage her in anyways. I almost didn't because I was so afraid that it might come off the wrong way like it was all about me or something.
Turns out that phone call was completely in the Lords plans. At 8 o'clock on a random weekday morning she answered the phone in need of some encouragement. It was so awesome! I just can't get over how God united us with Him in that moment. It wasn't about me trying to do something nice it was about the Lord knowing one of his children was in need and asking another child to help out. After our conversation had ended I was in awe. It was so awesome to say to the Lord "use me, i am here, i am yours, help me say yes more than i say no today" and then less than one hour later the Lord said "oh, you want me to use you? okay that's awesome, call your friend, tell you love her and ask her if you can pray for her. it is for my namesake, it is for my glory."
He is so personal. SO personal. I hope I believe this more and more about Him and that I continue to say yes to Him more than I say no.
Take yesterday morning for example. I had the opportunity to take 10 minutes before I left the house and pour over Psalm 23. A verse that I had never really paid much attention to before stood out to me. Verse 5 says "you annoit my head with oil; my cup overflows." I asked God to make that true of me that day. I asked Him to write His words on my heart and to allow His word to not stay inside me but because of the overflow, pour out.
One the way to work I felt a little nudge from the Holy Spirit and decided to call a sweet friend to see if I could pray for her or encourage her in anyways. I almost didn't because I was so afraid that it might come off the wrong way like it was all about me or something.
Turns out that phone call was completely in the Lords plans. At 8 o'clock on a random weekday morning she answered the phone in need of some encouragement. It was so awesome! I just can't get over how God united us with Him in that moment. It wasn't about me trying to do something nice it was about the Lord knowing one of his children was in need and asking another child to help out. After our conversation had ended I was in awe. It was so awesome to say to the Lord "use me, i am here, i am yours, help me say yes more than i say no today" and then less than one hour later the Lord said "oh, you want me to use you? okay that's awesome, call your friend, tell you love her and ask her if you can pray for her. it is for my namesake, it is for my glory."
He is so personal. SO personal. I hope I believe this more and more about Him and that I continue to say yes to Him more than I say no.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
A21
A21 is an amazing organization that seeks to free slaves from the sex trade and bondage.
The offer shelters to those in need of safe housing, they offer medical and psychological support
They offer transition homes
They offer love
They offer support
They offer kindness
They educate
They prevent
They care
I want to share some facts with you from their website:
Human trafficking is an organized criminal industry that affects every nation. While the statistics can seem overwhelming, it is important to remember that every number represents the life of a victim. The A21 Campaign has recognized a significant need in the region of Europe, and is committed to combating this injustice through rescuing one life at a time. (http://www.thea21campaign.org/)
•Human trafficking is the second largest global organized crime today, generating approximately 31.6 billion USD each year. Specifically, trafficking for sexual exploitation generates 27.8 billion USD per year.
-There are 1.39 million victims of commercial sexual servitude worldwide
-Over 25 percent of sex trafficked victims are trafficked from Southern and Eastern Europe
-90% of victims trafficked into the European Union member states will end up in the sex industry
-Tragically, only 1-2 percent of victims are rescued, and only 1 in 100,000 Europeans involved in trafficking are convicted
-Greece is known as 'the center of trafficking in Europe. A primary destination and transit country for human trafficking, Greece is the primary gateway for trafficked victims to enter the European Union, host to 90% of all EU illegal immigration
There is more information than I have time to write...please take time today learning so that for you ignorance is not an excuse
Today is an important day
Today is an important day. January 11 is Human Trafficking awareness day. Last year January 11 was just January 11th. Nothing extraordinary. Nothing important - at least nothing that I can remember.
But now I know. I can't stand by and do nothing. I have to say something.
Its more than a blockbuster movie with Hollywood stars. Its more than a billboard or a poster you might see. It is real life. Not for me, and not for you but for someone who is just as valuable and important.
Lately I have been scouring the A21 website trying to absorb all the amazing information that they have put at our fingertips. Over my Christmas break from work I was able to hear Christine Caine speak at the Passion 2012 conference. I have never in my entire life heard such a dynamic speaker. The Holy Spirit was definitely speaking through her to the 42,000 + that attended the conference that afternoon. She heads up the A21 campaign which you can like up with right ------------ > HERE
One statement that was repeated over and over was " Ignorance is not an option" and you know, it really isn't. We live in such an "all access" world. Information, news, resources are all available with a click of a button. Most friends and family I know have the Internet literally in the palm of their hands so why don't people take advantage of it?
But now I know. I can't stand by and do nothing. I have to say something.
Its more than a blockbuster movie with Hollywood stars. Its more than a billboard or a poster you might see. It is real life. Not for me, and not for you but for someone who is just as valuable and important.
Lately I have been scouring the A21 website trying to absorb all the amazing information that they have put at our fingertips. Over my Christmas break from work I was able to hear Christine Caine speak at the Passion 2012 conference. I have never in my entire life heard such a dynamic speaker. The Holy Spirit was definitely speaking through her to the 42,000 + that attended the conference that afternoon. She heads up the A21 campaign which you can like up with right ------------ > HERE
One statement that was repeated over and over was " Ignorance is not an option" and you know, it really isn't. We live in such an "all access" world. Information, news, resources are all available with a click of a button. Most friends and family I know have the Internet literally in the palm of their hands so why don't people take advantage of it?
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Don't stand by
There are two major human issues that have been weighing on my mind and heavily weighing on my heart.
1. the crisis in the congo
2. human/sex trafficking
I believe both of these issues are human issues. It does not matter your race, gender, faith background or age to be concerned about what is happening in these two arenas of life. Both of these, the crisis in the Congo and the rampant human trafficking are absolutely devastating to me. I believe the Lord has brought these two problems to the forefront of my heart not to just say "oh that is so sad! Where is God in this?" or " wow, i wish i could do something about that." No. I believe that he has brought them to my heart because they are His Heart. I can't imagine the grief and sorrow our Lord knows and feels in regards to these issues. My heart is broken on a daily basis and I only know a tiny person with a tiny bit of information.
For the next couple of days I really want to share information with you that I know in hopes that you will read it and be changed. Maybe you will pass it on, maybe you will begin to pray, maybe you will learn something new and the Lord will lay His heart over yours and you will begin to ache with the longing of healing and restoration for a beautiful country full of people in need or a generation of millions who are trapped in a sexual slave trade.
I don't know a lot. My mind is like a sponge soaking up information where I can find it. My heart is just out there trying to do something now instead of sitting around and just talking about a problem.
Today I read an article in the NY Times. The PICTURE was more than enough to stir every emotion in my heart. In my heart of hearts I wish I was on a plane tonight that was directed towards the Republic of Congo. Sometimes I feel like tPeter because I just want to go/do/act without thinking or without waiting on the Lord.
I am praying for so many things right now that are amazing and huge and confusing and would be hopeless if I was praying to anyone other than my Father in Heaven.
Please take 3 minutes to click the picture link and read just one story of the current crisis of the Congo. This story is really nothing in comparision to what I have read, but the picture tells a much bigger story than what is written.
Back in Novemeber
we celebrated a little American holiday called Thanksgiving
Celebrations included both families with lots of great conversations and great food. My mother in law and her famous cooking pictured below. Molly made it almost through the whole meal before we got to witness a nice holiday melt down.
after the morrison thanksgiving we headed up the mountain to celebrate a dobrenic thanksgiving. it was so nice and peaceful to be in a place where family time was more important that getting the best deals in the stores. We took our time and cooked a great meal and watched a Christmas movie.
La La, Lovey and Daddy walking around downtown Highlands, North Carolina
sweet molly fast asleep as we closed out the awesome holiday known for apple pie, turkey, family and football
Monday, January 9, 2012
a picture is worth a thousand words
they say a picture is worth a thousand words.
this picture for me represents a thousand thoughts/happenings.
molly is stretching her arms out to receive a hug from me in the photo and i feel like that is how we have embraced this season as a family.
there is so much to say and so much that God is doing. He is always at work, but sometimes it just seems more noticeable.
i hope to share in the next few weeks a little bit of our life from the past two weeks and how good God is!
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