This is but a short letter of hope to my younger self that I wish I would have had before going through these obstacles in life. I hope this message brings you hope in whatever obstacles you are enduring.
Dear One,
You are young, naive, and have much to learn. You also come bearing enthusiasm and joy. Adulting can be hard, but oh so rewarding! These are (a few) obstacles that you will face in life...and ways you can get over the wall with a stronger faith.
True criticism. Know this: do not take it personally. Learn from it, make changes, and move on. Adapt when necessary. You enjoy rolling with the punches and change (for some odd reason), and criticism is the perfect avenue for that if that is the perspective taken.
Loss. By this, I mean true loss--not getting your butt whooped on the basketball court and running lines for it. This one seemingly came out of nowhere, but put your hope in the Lord. Cling to the truth. Hope should be put nowhere else but in the Lord, for all else will fail.
Wandering into the Unknown. Seek truth every time. Trust that God has a plan and what seems to be the unknown to you is still part of His greater story. He's the Alpha AND Omega. Enjoy the unknown (and whatever season comes after) and hope in the Lord.
Decisions to Make. By golly, be confident in yourself and in the decisions you make. There are big and small ones coming. Use the small ones as practice for the big ones. Talk these decisions out and seek counsel, but let your 'yes' be 'yes' and your 'no' be 'no.' It's biblical, you know!
Entanglement. Simplify your life. Give All. The. Things. to God! He is God, you are not. When you cling solely to Jesus, the Creator of the Universe, nothing else seems to matter. Assess what is important and spend time doing that with those you love. Your family motto encapsulates it all: Love God. Love People. Be Intentional. THAT IS IT! Simple as that. Run your race simply. Run because He has called you to it. It's hard because we can become entangled by the things that don't add anything but stress and worry to our lives. Shake it off, fix your eyes on Jesus, and all else will fall either to the wayside or into place as it should.
Enjoy life.
Continue seeing things on the bright side because that is how God made you.
Hope.
Love,
Me
Thursday, August 3, 2017
Friday, February 26, 2016
5 Names of God I Now Know And Love
Being the nerd that I am, I challenged myself to journal them and try to find one for each letter of the alphabet (pictured).
There is something truly amazing about praying His names back to Him. There are no words to fumble over because they aren't yours. They are His names and they represent His character in different facets. The names of God are wonderful, beautiful, and exhilarating!
These Hebrew names of God below are new to me and I am ever so grateful for continuing to learn new things about God. The names are not new in the sense that I didn't know this was a characteristic of the Almighty God, rather they are new to me in the Hebrew. These are the ones that speak to me in different seasons of life, very applicable for where I am at.
When I am distracted by the things of this life, I remember that God is Qanna.
Qanna--Jealous. He is a jealous God, wanting everything that we are. All of me, not just the part I'm 'okay' with surrendering. Exodus 34:14, "Do not worship any other God, for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God."
When I am dismayed or discouraged, I am reminded that God is El Simchath Gili.
El Simchath Gili--God, My Exceeding Joy. Permanent, never-failing joy in my heart can only be sourced from God. Psalm 43:4, "Then I will go to the altar of God, to a god, my joy and my delight. I will praise you with the lyre, O God, my God."
When I feel alone or hurting, God is El Rai.
El Rai--He Sees Me. God sees me and knows my heart, desires, pain and sin. The Creator of the Universe SEES me. That is where my value and worth lie. Genesis 16:13, "She gave this name to the LORD who spoke to her: 'You are the God who sees me,' for she said, 'I have now seen the One who sees me."
When I fail myself or let shame run rampant in my soul, I remember the truth that God is Jehovah Nissi.
Jehovah Nissi--The LORD My Banner. He waves this triumphant banner of truth over my head. I am His and I will cling to the beautiful banner of truth and righteousness when my mind and heart become distracted by my shortcomings, for He is victorious. 1 Corinthians 15:57, "But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our LORD Jesus Christ."
When I am feeling consumed by the by the busyness of life or the demands that I put on myself, I remember that God is Esh Oklah.
Esh Oklah--A Consuming Fire. He is a consuming fire, a jealous God, that protects his creation. He chose to take the cross for us and in doing so, consumed our imperfections so that we could have eternal life. May my love for God burn brightly. Deuteronomy 4:24, "For the LORD your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God."
And as a bonus...as we are praying through the ministry of adoption and what our hearts, hands/feet, and home could be open to, we are reminded that God is 'Ab.
'Ab--Father. The perfect Father. An advocate. A voice. A listener. Psalm 68:5, "A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in His holy dwelling."
Whatever the season, I know that the Names of God are always a beautiful way to pray to Him in thankfulness. He knows me and sees me and enjoys the act of worship through prayer. When words fail me, His names and character do not.
In this season of life, what Names of God resonate with you? Link up with Mrs. Disciple and share!
Monday, February 22, 2016
Running From Shame :: Guest Post at Dauntless Grace Ministries
I had the opportunity to share my story with Dauntless Grace Ministries regarding shame. I hope it brings you comfort as it did me when writing it. Check out their ministry! This is what they want, their vision, their hope--and I love it. I am so grateful to have been able to take a small part in that.
"Dauntless Grace Ministries was born out of a desire for women to have permission to be vulnerable. Too often, women are expected to have it all together. This is especially true of Christian women. We are afraid that if anyone sees the chaos in our hearts or our lives, then we will be judged, isolated, pitied."
Shame is something that many of us have experienced, if not all of us. With sin and brokenness in the world, shame exists. God is not in the business of shaming you, He is in the business of redeeming and loving you. That is the message I want you to hear!
"Dauntless Grace Ministries was born out of a desire for women to have permission to be vulnerable. Too often, women are expected to have it all together. This is especially true of Christian women. We are afraid that if anyone sees the chaos in our hearts or our lives, then we will be judged, isolated, pitied."
Shame is something that many of us have experienced, if not all of us. With sin and brokenness in the world, shame exists. God is not in the business of shaming you, He is in the business of redeeming and loving you. That is the message I want you to hear!
Sunday, February 21, 2016
processing
It is a ministry, not just a way for us to grow our family as I once thought. I knew that before this weekend, but after hearing from families that have walked that path, the ministerial piece of this type of calling was extremely evident.
I came into the conference with the notion that if we are to adopt, then we should do it internationally, though we didn't have a country in mind. In truth, I am glad that we didn't have these decisions made before attending because it helped me see the opportunities laid before us prior to seeking out a path for our family. Maybe it was naive of me not to have done much research, but I do feel that this weekend was a beautiful time of learning. My eyes were opened to the different routes that adoption can take, and I am grateful for it. If I'm honest, the following are scary words to write but isn't that a part of faith? We know we want to take part in this ministry, but don't necessarily know what that will look like for our family. There is much to do, but it must first start with prayer.
I know there isn't much more to say yet because I am still processing all of it. Whatever this journey looks like for our family, we are going to do it with opens hands and hearts. In excitement & anticipation, we surrender our decisions to Him--not for our gain, but His glory!
Friday, February 19, 2016
#FridayFive :: Five Senses
As I link up with Mrs. Disciple for this Friday Five featuring our senses, I decided to go a little bit of a different route than I have previously with these postings, so bear with me.
This season of Lent has drawn me deeper into the senses of experiencing life and death, and ultimately the resurrection of our King. Can you imagine what it must have been like? Put yourself there...in the midst of the crowd, as you see the Savior crying out on the cross. The dry cracking earth below your feet is but an image of the depraved world that put Yahweh on the cross.
Hope is on that cross, the Messiah hanging on that tree for all of mankind's imperfections though He stands alone as perfectly perfect. The scent of the vinegar laden sponge pungently stings your nostrils as the guard raises it to the parched lips of Jesus for but a sip. The remnants of Jesus' body and blood that He broke for you are ever on your breath, but it serves as a beautiful reminder of His last supper on earth and so you treasure it. You hear Him cry out His final breath, and with it comes doubt, sadness, and yet a glimmer of hope and comfort knowing that He is no longer suffering. Hope and fear are coursing through your veins, not fully comprehending what is to come.
Alas, you race to the tomb that people are claiming is now empty. The garments that were once draping His sacrificial body are gingerly clasped in your hands. Hope soaked tears are rolling down your face. You know that this now means grace and redemption for all mankind; that which Jesus was telling of for years, but it's only now become a reality to you. Does this change you? How now do you live knowing that the Savior has risen?
I sit and reflect upon what happened on that cross, that is what the season of Lent is. Jesus did something extremely selfless that day thousands of years ago. Something that is necessary for my self-worth, because I am His. Let us now rejoice in this beautiful act of sacrifice for this is the good news.
How can you use your senses to fully reflect on the magnitude of Christ's death and resurrection in this Lenten season?
This season of Lent has drawn me deeper into the senses of experiencing life and death, and ultimately the resurrection of our King. Can you imagine what it must have been like? Put yourself there...in the midst of the crowd, as you see the Savior crying out on the cross. The dry cracking earth below your feet is but an image of the depraved world that put Yahweh on the cross.
Hope is on that cross, the Messiah hanging on that tree for all of mankind's imperfections though He stands alone as perfectly perfect. The scent of the vinegar laden sponge pungently stings your nostrils as the guard raises it to the parched lips of Jesus for but a sip. The remnants of Jesus' body and blood that He broke for you are ever on your breath, but it serves as a beautiful reminder of His last supper on earth and so you treasure it. You hear Him cry out His final breath, and with it comes doubt, sadness, and yet a glimmer of hope and comfort knowing that He is no longer suffering. Hope and fear are coursing through your veins, not fully comprehending what is to come.
Alas, you race to the tomb that people are claiming is now empty. The garments that were once draping His sacrificial body are gingerly clasped in your hands. Hope soaked tears are rolling down your face. You know that this now means grace and redemption for all mankind; that which Jesus was telling of for years, but it's only now become a reality to you. Does this change you? How now do you live knowing that the Savior has risen?
I sit and reflect upon what happened on that cross, that is what the season of Lent is. Jesus did something extremely selfless that day thousands of years ago. Something that is necessary for my self-worth, because I am His. Let us now rejoice in this beautiful act of sacrifice for this is the good news.
How can you use your senses to fully reflect on the magnitude of Christ's death and resurrection in this Lenten season?
Wednesday, February 17, 2016
Experiencing Intellectual Intimacy : Guest Post at Unveiled & Revealed
It's been a while since I have blogged! Today, I am guest posting over at Unveiled and Revealed on Intellectual Intimacy. I absolutely love this series that Brianna has going and I encourage you to check it out and dig deep into the different areas of intimacy in your own life.
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Hard talks are healthy talks, if gone about correctly. I loathe confrontation—my heart is palpitating just thinking about it. I think it’s because confrontation doesn’t bode well for a middle school girl when she knows her friends are doing something wrong and has to speak up. But more than that, true intellectual intimacy is expressed in loving someone enough to care for his or her soul.
That is agape love.
Read more here.
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I would love to hear your thoughts on intellectual intimacy!
Wednesday, January 27, 2016
His Love Never Fails : Guest Post at For the Love of Dixie
Today, I have the privilege of guest posting for my For the Love Sister, Lauren Flake – the founder of the blog, For the Love of Dixie and #texasstrong Fundraiser. This post was challenging to write because it begged me to reflect on what the Lord has done in our family over the years.
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I had never truly lost something before 2014.
Sure, a pet fish would bite the dust or a dog would run away, but the last time I had experienced loss was my grandmother. I was 6 years old. To say that I learned what grieving was during that time is off the mark...read more here.
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Jump on over to read all of Lauren's 'Permission to Grieve' series. Grab a cup of coffee and soak in truth.
Monday, January 25, 2016
A Prayer for Our Daughter : Guest Post at Empty Plate. Full Heart.
Today, I have the honor and beautiful privilege of guest posting for Andrea Stunz – the founder of the blog, Empty Plate. Full Heart. I enjoyed reflecting on this wonderful year that Harper has given us and I cannot wait to see what her next year of life will be like. Lord, we give it all to you!
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To my sweet daughter as you lay in your bed—
As 2016 begins and we celebrate your first year of life, it is our heart’s desire that we show you who Jesus is. To show you ways in which we can love others. To show you what serving looks like...read more here.
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What is your prayer or hope for 2016?
Saturday, January 16, 2016
#FridayFive :: Adjectives
The topic this week is very fitting, as I have decided to stay home with my daughter. At work, when someone leaves, we circle around them and edify them and then pray over them. These words (or descriptions of these words more or less) were said about me.
Extroverted: This is a blessing and a curse. Prayerfully more of a blessing than anything else! Being extroverted lends itself to a multitude of opportunities to be around other people and love them. Though sometimes I do need to recharge.
Creative: I love to make new things and problem solve in a unique way.
Kind: Helpful, giving, and generous. This is a demeanor that I want to instill in my daughter. Being kind is so important--simply smiling at someone may change their day.
Intentional: Seeking out relationships--each and every one. Prayerfully those on the receiving end know that they are loved, cared for, seen and heard. Deliberate with the words I say, the actions I live out, and the way in which I handle situations.
Loving: This is partnered with being intentional. I want to love and serve others well, with abandon.
What do I want my daughter to be?
Courageous
Fun-loving
Spirit-filled
Intentional
Kindhearted
Resilient
Adventurous
Amiable
Dream-chaser
It's funny, you see--when we found out that the gender of our child, I immediately started thinking about and reflecting on my characteristics, flaws, quirks, and the like. I know that she will embody some of them, as that is currently what she sees most.
Harper...I want her to be more decisive than I am.
A healthy mix of introvert and extrovert (because we're all a little of both!).
Someone who isn't afraid to make mistakes.
Someone who loves to serve and love others well.
Someone who finds her purpose in the Lord.
Someone who is brave enough to take on the challenges of this life, but isn't intimidated when she gets knocked down.
Someone who sees the good in others.
Someone who chases after the Lord with her whole heart.
But when I really think of my impact on my child and what characteristics I want her to take on, I realize that I am not doing this alone! There is no way I can instill all of the aforementioned items into my child alone. I need help! The Lord is the only one that can change and mold a soul and, boy, am I grateful!? Harper will see these characteristics in those she is around. At church. At home. In community. In fellowship. We cannot do it alone--it truly does take a village.
I know I've strayed from the adjectives; however, adjectives are applicable to a person that has been described as such. The adjectives are seen by others and pointed out. Affirmed by your community. Who is able to give an accurate description of you? Whomever it is, I encourage you to lean in to those people. They know you. Love you. Care for you.
Link up with Mrs. Disciple and describe yourself! What would your community describe you as?
Wednesday, December 23, 2015
Joy is Servanthood: Guest Post at Unveiled & Revealed
Merry Christmas Eve Eve!
I had the privilege and honor to guest post over at Unveiled & Revealed today! Brianna is a For the Love sister of mine and I have so enjoyed her blog.
She challenged us to write about joy in 100 words. Only 100. That's not a whole lot!
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Joy—we all want it. Why is it so hard to get? It starts with...read more here.
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What is joy to you in 100 words?
I had the privilege and honor to guest post over at Unveiled & Revealed today! Brianna is a For the Love sister of mine and I have so enjoyed her blog.
She challenged us to write about joy in 100 words. Only 100. That's not a whole lot!
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Joy—we all want it. Why is it so hard to get? It starts with...read more here.
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What is joy to you in 100 words?
Friday, December 18, 2015
#FridayFive :: Five Hopes in the New Year
With the eve of the New Year nigh upon us, I wanted to discuss five hopes I have for 2016. These hopes, some may result in life change and a perspective shift, are something I'm looking forward to!
In 2016, I hope to learn more.
I long to be reflective and recognize what I've learned over the course of each month. I have so enjoyed linking up with emily p. freeman for her monthly reflection of what she has learned. Since I am out of school, it's so important for me to continually stretch my mind and by putting that in writing, I am committing to it and identifying how I have grown.
I have asked for a few resources to help me learn something new this year. One of those is a hand-lettering kit for Christmas in an effort to learn how to create some beautiful hand-lettered art. I also look forward to reading some great books and blogs as well.
In 2016, I hope to be more intentional.
I long to be intentional with my family, the ministry I'm part of, and the community I'm in. Each person has needs that must be met differently, I desire to identify those needs and intentionally meet them in whatever means I can. Our family motto is 'Love God. Love People. Have a Purpose.' Being intentional is exactly that!
In 2016, I hope to be used.
Used. Used, not in the sense of 'used and abused,' rather I yearn to be utilized by the Lord. I want to be obedient. Hands open to whatever comes. I want to remember to hold loosely to the things of this life and be used by God--whatever that may look like.
In 2016, I hope to adventure.
We will be venturing down a new year, another year of life with our daughter, another year of marriage, and into whatever is coming our way. I love adventuring, exploring and discovering. I want to do more of that with my daughter. Harper is going to explore a whole new world--and I am so excited to be staying home with her to adventure alongside her.
In being obedient and being open to being used by God, adventure will come!
In 2016, I hope to love well.
Loving well and not looking back. Loving others without regret. Not worrying about what loving others looks like. Not questioning how it will all work out, rather loving with no regard. When I love others well, Proverbs 31 comes to life.
What hopes do you have? Link up with Mrs. Disciple and let us know!
Thursday, December 17, 2015
Spread the Joy: Guest Post at Radically Broken
Today I am guest posting on Radically Broken in her series on Advent. Below is an excerpt from the posting!
As this is our first Christmas with our sweet daughter, I aim to be very intentional with her about the season of Advent and the birth of our Savior. We assembled her plastic nativity last night and as she crawled around with a shepherd in her mouth that was hanging on by his staff, I began to contemplate the role of these shepherds.
Read more here.
Saturday, December 12, 2015
#FridayFive :: Five Joys
These joys are so simple, yet so very important to the season of life that I am currently in. I would love to continually post Five Joys for my week. I will be posting later about 'Joy being found in Servanthood;' however, at this point in time, my brain can only handle composing these 5 things that bring me great joy.
Running
I need this outlet. Running is therapeutic for me and it is necessary for my sanity. The pounding of the pavement and my heart inside my chest, it's both challenging and life-giving. Joy is found in each difficult step, knowing that I'm running towards the prize.
Hot Showers
As of late + being a momma, self-hygiene got pushed to the back burner more often than I would like to admit. I never realized how beautiful a hot shower truly was until I didn't get to do it nearly as much. :) Hot showers are relaxing and rejuvenating and this momma needs more of them! I'm sure those around me would appreciate it as well.
Snuggles
Baby snuggles are the absolute best and I get so much joy from it! Harper is probably the best snuggler around town. I want time to freeze when we snuggle. I often stare at her--taking every tiny thing in. I long to notice each hair, breath, and grasp. Having this perspective makes each moment with her special, and I'm often reminded that my longing for my daughter is like my longing for my Savior. I want to learn everything about our Creator because He loves me. He knows me.
Date Nights
It's so very important for my husband and I to be intentional in spending time with one another. I don't want to lose sight of our first love for one another. Date nights are a routine and it's an event that is very much looked forward to.
Good Books and Quiet Time
I've always enjoyed reading, though it became a chore while in school. As of late, I feel that this joy had been rekindled! I was blessed to have been on the launch team for Jen Hatmaker's book For the Love in March. It was exactly what my soul needed. Since then, it has sparked an interest and true enjoyment in reading once more. I have now taken part in several book launch teams and I cannot say enough about the joy I get when I read and recommend these books to friends! I've also begun to have a better, and more consistent quiet time because of this deepened desire to read. God is so good. I have seen how He has used each of these launch teams to pull me closer to Him.
What are five joys in your life? What brings you joy? Link up to Mrs. Disciple and share your #FridayFive!
Running
I need this outlet. Running is therapeutic for me and it is necessary for my sanity. The pounding of the pavement and my heart inside my chest, it's both challenging and life-giving. Joy is found in each difficult step, knowing that I'm running towards the prize.
Hot Showers
As of late + being a momma, self-hygiene got pushed to the back burner more often than I would like to admit. I never realized how beautiful a hot shower truly was until I didn't get to do it nearly as much. :) Hot showers are relaxing and rejuvenating and this momma needs more of them! I'm sure those around me would appreciate it as well.
Snuggles
Baby snuggles are the absolute best and I get so much joy from it! Harper is probably the best snuggler around town. I want time to freeze when we snuggle. I often stare at her--taking every tiny thing in. I long to notice each hair, breath, and grasp. Having this perspective makes each moment with her special, and I'm often reminded that my longing for my daughter is like my longing for my Savior. I want to learn everything about our Creator because He loves me. He knows me.
Date Nights
It's so very important for my husband and I to be intentional in spending time with one another. I don't want to lose sight of our first love for one another. Date nights are a routine and it's an event that is very much looked forward to.
Good Books and Quiet Time
I've always enjoyed reading, though it became a chore while in school. As of late, I feel that this joy had been rekindled! I was blessed to have been on the launch team for Jen Hatmaker's book For the Love in March. It was exactly what my soul needed. Since then, it has sparked an interest and true enjoyment in reading once more. I have now taken part in several book launch teams and I cannot say enough about the joy I get when I read and recommend these books to friends! I've also begun to have a better, and more consistent quiet time because of this deepened desire to read. God is so good. I have seen how He has used each of these launch teams to pull me closer to Him.
What are five joys in your life? What brings you joy? Link up to Mrs. Disciple and share your #FridayFive!
Thursday, December 10, 2015
Thankful Thursday
I am thankful for family time. Tyler had to travel, so we are enjoying some evenings at home. I love the simple things that we do as a family--cook, eat, bathe Harper. They are seemingly uneventful, but I love it. We are also planning to take Harper to see her first round of Christmas lights this weekend--it should be so awesome!
I am thankful for the opportunity to serve. We enjoyed a ladies staff day this week and I loved getting the opportunity to serve Blue Santa. We wrapped Christmas presents--and if you know me well, you know that I am awful at wrapping gifts. It was a challenge, but I loved it. I had a great time of community as well.
I am thankful for challenges. Challenges for me come in many forms--wrapping Christmas presents, writing for someone's blog, stretching myself, etc. I am thankful for those challenges because it gives me the opportunity to push myself and grow! Life is made sweeter when I can grown, stretch, and become better at something.
I am thankful for the opportunity to watch sweet Harper grow, change, and develop. She's changing rapidly. I don't want to miss any of it! Last weekend I watched Inside Out and I loved it. I want to cherish each memory with Harper.
I am thankful for Christmas lists and Amazon. Amazon Prime is a beautiful thing and has allowed me to knock off a good portion of my Christmas list. Prime has allowed me to shop without leaving the house, and it arrives at my house in TWO days. Everyone needs this in their lives.
I am thankful for hard days. Hard days make the easy days so much better and sweeter. Without the difficult days, I would grow tired of the good days. My innate desire is not to be satisfied with what I have, even the good days can become expected rather than treasured. I want to treasure each and every day!
I am thankful for simple truths. I often read aloud The Jesus Storybook Bible or Bedtime Bible Stories to Harper and I am often reminded of these beautiful, simple truths. Sometimes I need those reminders stripped down and simplified.
I am thankful for Advent. Other than gathering around an Advent wreath and lighting candles one Sunday per week in December, I don't remember knowing or participating much in Advent while growing up. Now that this will be Harper's first Christmas, we are looking forward to Christmas traditions with her. I want to be intentional with her, for her to see that the Advent season is all about the anticipation, waiting, and trusting in the coming of Christ.
I am thankful for fulfillment in Jesus. Advent is important in that we learn about Jesus being a true and better Adam. A true and better Moses. A true and better Noah. We no longer have to offer up a sacrificial lamb because He is the Lamb. We no longer have to light a menorah because He is the Light of Life. He fulfills all of God's promises. 2 Corinthians 1:20, "For no matter how many promises God has made, they are "Yes" in Christ. And so through him the "Amen" is spoken by us to the glory of God."
What are you thankful for?
Sunday, December 6, 2015
#FridayFive :: Five Traditions
This #FridayFive is an extremely sentimental and fun one! We are discussing Christmas Traditions! My family was very rich in Christmas tradition and as this will be our first Christmas with a child, we been reflective over the traditions we both held growing up and those we want to hold onto or create with our own family.
A staple in our house is to watch a Christmas movie -- generally we watch one a night, a few days leading up to Christmas. We love to kick off the Christmas movie season by inviting friends over to watch Elf with us. A family favorite of mine while growing up is A Christmas Story. We love this simple tradition and love to cultivate a sense of community while gathering around the TV with some cider or cocoa.
We snag ornaments from everywhere we travel. This in and of itself has become a beautiful tradition for us. Some of my favorites are from the National Parks that we visit throughout the year. One of the most meaningful ornaments is from Acadia National Park in Maine, as we named our daughter after our time there (you can read more about that here). We love to decorate the tree with those ornaments and reminisce over our time on that trip!
Every year, my family would load up the car and head out of town. When we arrived at the Christmas Tree Farm, we would squish several families onto a hayride. My brother and I would take turns deciding where we would stop to hop off. We would pick the perfect tree and cut it down. It was ours. We worked hard for that tree, sawing, chopping, and agreeing on the 'one.' Once the tree was cut, our family would be taken back to the barn at the front of the Tree Farm and drink cider while the tree was tied to the car. I would love to continue this tradition on; however, my husband is allergic! The best I can make of the situation is to use a fake tree and I now diffuse pine tree oil--which then makes the whole house smell like we have a real tree! Problem solved.
One thing I want to do with Harper is to go through Advent with her. My church had the Advent wreath and we would go through it each week as a family. I also want to partner Advent with being 'others' focused. Harper will help us look to help others, especially so in this season. I'm not sure what that will look like yet, but I know that we will look for ways to love others and express Christ's love for others by the giving up of ourselves.
Every child has a toy that they always want at Christmastime, but some years those toys don't make it under the tree. My parents have since given us one toy that we wanted as a kid, but we didn't get. It's now become a tradition of ours to receive one 'kid' gift each year. This is an absolute favorite of mine because we end up playing with those toys as a family! One year, we all got Beyblades and battled one another for hours. Two years ago, we each got Nerf Guns and played in the front yard--some of those foam darts didn't make it past Christmas day! I genuinely look forward to (and often attempt to guess at) the 'kid' gift that we get. I urge you to do this with your family if you don't already--we all love it and it's such a blast!
A staple in our house is to watch a Christmas movie -- generally we watch one a night, a few days leading up to Christmas. We love to kick off the Christmas movie season by inviting friends over to watch Elf with us. A family favorite of mine while growing up is A Christmas Story. We love this simple tradition and love to cultivate a sense of community while gathering around the TV with some cider or cocoa.
We snag ornaments from everywhere we travel. This in and of itself has become a beautiful tradition for us. Some of my favorites are from the National Parks that we visit throughout the year. One of the most meaningful ornaments is from Acadia National Park in Maine, as we named our daughter after our time there (you can read more about that here). We love to decorate the tree with those ornaments and reminisce over our time on that trip!
Every year, my family would load up the car and head out of town. When we arrived at the Christmas Tree Farm, we would squish several families onto a hayride. My brother and I would take turns deciding where we would stop to hop off. We would pick the perfect tree and cut it down. It was ours. We worked hard for that tree, sawing, chopping, and agreeing on the 'one.' Once the tree was cut, our family would be taken back to the barn at the front of the Tree Farm and drink cider while the tree was tied to the car. I would love to continue this tradition on; however, my husband is allergic! The best I can make of the situation is to use a fake tree and I now diffuse pine tree oil--which then makes the whole house smell like we have a real tree! Problem solved.
One thing I want to do with Harper is to go through Advent with her. My church had the Advent wreath and we would go through it each week as a family. I also want to partner Advent with being 'others' focused. Harper will help us look to help others, especially so in this season. I'm not sure what that will look like yet, but I know that we will look for ways to love others and express Christ's love for others by the giving up of ourselves.
Every child has a toy that they always want at Christmastime, but some years those toys don't make it under the tree. My parents have since given us one toy that we wanted as a kid, but we didn't get. It's now become a tradition of ours to receive one 'kid' gift each year. This is an absolute favorite of mine because we end up playing with those toys as a family! One year, we all got Beyblades and battled one another for hours. Two years ago, we each got Nerf Guns and played in the front yard--some of those foam darts didn't make it past Christmas day! I genuinely look forward to (and often attempt to guess at) the 'kid' gift that we get. I urge you to do this with your family if you don't already--we all love it and it's such a blast!
What are some of your Christmas traditions? Link up with Mrs. Disciple and let us know!
Tuesday, December 1, 2015
What I Learned :: November 2015
November was crazy--beautiful, encouraging, busy. I've blinked and it's December. Bitter winds whip, ushering in the cold chaos that is the holiday season. Before we embark on the Christmas season, I want to reflect on what November taught our family.
Who actually cares about a red cup?
Grab some coffee and enjoy your life. Honestly, this is hilarious that people were ever upset over a cup. I would much rather grab coffee with a friend and dig deep into each others' lives over worrying about the cup it is served in. I love people, we are funny.
Patience and trust can go a long way!
Wow, the month of November was PACKED with opportunities to be patient. It was hard. Trying. Difficult. Challenging. Ultimately, we put our trust in the Lord and we are BLESSED for doing it. Patience is a discipline--one that I will continually have to learn, relearn, and be reminded of often.
Subway systems are neat.
We visited the Big Apple during November--we enjoyed it as much as we could, with both of us getting sick on our first trip without our sweet baby. One thing we were extremely impressed by was the subway system in NY. If we wanted to get anywhere. Google knew EXACTLY which line to take, when the next one is coming, etc. Technology is amazing.
Launching books is a lot of fun!
I was notified of two more launch teams that I am on--Breaking Busy by Alli Worthington and Raising Grateful Kids by Kristen Welch. I love to read and learn and read some more! I'll post more about the books later.
Self-reflection is necessary.
I'm a list maker. A to-do list queen, if you will. Self-reflection helps me analyze what I can do to get things knocked off that list. Diana Kerr is a wonderful Christian Life Coach and she hosted a webinar on finishing 2015 strong--and it starts with creating a to-do list, setting goals, and wanting to achieve them! Analyze your action plan. Tyler and I have been setting goals (both short and long-term) and we discuss them every 6 months or so. I have NEEDED this in my life.
Decision making can be scary, but is ultimately rewarding!
I suck at making decisions. I would rather somebody else choose for me, because I know that I would be happy with anything. Unfortunately, that does not and cannot happen all of the time in this life. I made a tough decision this month...and I am proud of myself for it. I was given a super simple tip from a friend, she said to flip a coin with the two sides of the decision. As you flip it, you know in your heart what side you want it to land on--call it before it lands, and that is what you truly decide. It sounds so flippant; however, I was pleasantly surprised with how true this coin flipping has been for myself. I also realized that I was attempting to please the masses, instead of doing what was best for me.
People SWIM in the ocean on Thanksgiving.
That is crazy! They are brave. I enjoyed some time at the beach over Thanksgiving, but nothing was more bewildering to me than those that were swimming--and they were not in wet-suits or anything. We also heard some crazy Black Friday stories, but we decided to #optoutside and go to the beach instead. It was awesome--a fire, s'mores, and the ocean.
November, you've been a treat! Looking forward to what December has to offer!
Saturday, November 28, 2015
She Reads Truth :: Psalms of Gratitude, Day 3
Day 3 of She Reads Truth's Psalms of Gratitude has commenced! I would love for you to join me in digger deeper within Psalm 34:1-22.
This is a beautiful section of scripture packed with blessings and promises from the Lord! I am overwhelmed by His character that I have learned and been reminded of in this passage. The authors of this devotion want you to dig deeper into each gift that we are given in the specific verses below:
This is a beautiful section of scripture packed with blessings and promises from the Lord! I am overwhelmed by His character that I have learned and been reminded of in this passage. The authors of this devotion want you to dig deeper into each gift that we are given in the specific verses below:
God’s gracious gifts to me!
verse 4: He answers me
verse 4: He delivers me
verse 5: He sees me
verse 6: He hears me
verse 6: He saves me
verse 7: He delivers me
verse 7: He protects me
verses 9-10: He provides for me
verse 15: He sees and hears me
verse 18: He is near me
verse 18: He saves me
verse 20: He protects me
verse 22: He redeems me
---------------------------
Those who seek the Lord will not lack any good thing. Psalm 34:10
Because of His gracious provision, I will continue to be grateful. I am grateful for the truths found in scripture and seen to fruition in my own life. Lord, may my eyes be opened to Your blessings and provisions. May I continually turn back to You, in all things, and give thanks!
What new things are you learning about God while reading these Psalms of Gratitude?
Friday, November 27, 2015
#FridayFive :: Five Thanks
Hello on this Black Friday! I'm going to be linking up with Mrs. Disciple for this #FridayFive--Five Thanks!
1 Chronicles 29:13, "Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name."
Psalm 106:1, "Praise the Lord. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever."
If 'giving thanks' is in scripture multiple times, there must be a reason for it. I know that it isn't in our human nature to be thankful, rather it is an attitude and discipline. Hebrews 12:11 says that a discipline at the time is unpleasant; however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those that have been trained by it. I am currently in a season of training. Looking at each facet of my life and training my mind and heart to be thankful in all circumstances, as Paul learned to be content in everything. I yearn for that.
On Thanksgiving day, my husband gave me a wonderful gift--he took care of our sweet baby and allowed me to shower and get ready in quiet. While getting ready, I was reflective of what season of life we are in and why we should be thankful. I was reminded of a wonderful book that I had the opportunity to help launch this year.
In Jenny Simmons' book The Road to Becoming, she breaks down each season of life: the dreaming/destruction, burying, lostness, waiting, and becoming. Her beautiful words bring me comfort for whatever this season of life it is that I am in, He will meet me there. I am thankful for each season of life, as I've been through each one, and I want to reflect and express my gratitude. I can see His hand in each season, and for that I am THANKFUL!
Thank Him in the Dreaming and Destruction
Life happens--both beautiful and sad. During this season, we are thankful that God is sovereign. We understand that He is in control, though it may not come easily. He paves the way. Lives are made new each day and sometimes that life is taken away. We can doubt God during this season or we can lean into His gracious arms. I've done both, and the doubting I did allowed me to draw closer to Him in time. It's how you handle the destruction that reflects your heart.
We are thankful because He is still there when all else fails.
We are thankful because He is the rock we cling when hard times come.
We are thankful because He is beside us in the midst of suffering.
Having walked through both dreaming and destruction while trying to start a family, I am so very grateful for the truth found in scripture.
Psalm 46:1, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."
We thank You because, in You, we dream and find hope in the season of dreaming and destruction. We thank You for trust, strength, and desire in this season. We thank You for hearing us when we call.
Thank Him in the Burying
Burying something is the acceptance of it being gone. The control you think you have over things is not truly in your hands. In the burying of these things, you soon realize that you should hold loosely to them. That doesn't mean that you shouldn't love well or fiercely nor should you live in fear that all will be stripped away; rather, you should live and love each day accepting that our hearts are made for things not of this earth. Our hope is in Christ alone.
We accept the grief that comes with burial. Grief allows your soul to heal. Burial brings grief and grief will eventually birth hope. We are thankful for that painful, yet magnificent, process!
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says, "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."
We thank You for the season of burial, for we know that through this season You are planning greater things. Our hope is in You and You alone. We thank You for allowing burial to happen and praise You for setting eternity in the hearts of men.
Thank Him in the Lostness
When we are lost, we think that no one knows where we are. But, being lost can be a wonderful thing! We can inhabit the stillness of being lost and listen, listen to what is happening around us. Find our bearings. Be reminded of our roots.
Sometimes I feel that God uses the lostness so that we can refocus on Him. When we've become so entangled in this life, when all is stripped away, and we investigate our hearts to find what truly matters. God is at the heart of it all. Lostness strips away the busy, the plans, the next steps. Lostness strips away the noise of this life.
After having two miscarriages, I often found myself crying in the car. Arguing with the Lord. I felt as though I was wrestling the Angel of the Lord, like Jacob at the Jabbok. This is when I felt lost. I recognized that God has a better plan, but I had put my hope in getting pregnant, because that's what others had told me. 'I was young. It's ok,' trying to brush the grief under the rug. The point of the lostness was to accept the burial and destruction that had taken place after the dreaming, and to know that God is who He says He is. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. In an effort to start a family, I put all my hope in that.
Psalm 46:10a, He says, “Be still, and know that I am God..."
We thank You for FINDING us, no matter how far we've gone, You'll ALWAYS find us. We thank You for calling out to us in our lostness. We thank You for the calm and stillness in this season.
Thank Him in the Waiting
I feel as though this is the season that we have one foot in--heading out of, but still in to some degree, as we have been waiting and trusting in the Lord for some clarity over our daughter's health issues. Waiting is hard. Waiting sucks. Even still, I am continually reminded that He is good.
We thank Him because we know that He is fighting for us.
Standing beside us.
Holding our hands.
He is faithful, even in the waiting.
He is preparing the way for us.
Jenny's words hit home with my heart: "I want to finish well--and finishing well means having the patience to wait when waiting is required...Sprinting to the finish line only shortchanges dreams that need divine time to come to life."
God uses this time of waiting to refine us. To grow us. To make all things new. To make us more like Him. It is in the lostness and the waiting that we see glimpses of Heaven, glimpses of what is to become in us.
2 Corinthians 5:17 says, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come."
We thank You for Your comfort, protection, and peace during the season of waiting. We thank You for allowing us to wait, trust, and lean in to Your plan.
Thank Him in the Becoming
Our other foot is stepping forward into the becoming. The acceptance of this new 'normal' for our lives and we want to live it.
Live every day and be thankful for each new mercy.
Each new morning.
Each new blood cell that is produced in our daughter's sweet marrow.
We are praising Him because we know that we are blessed. We know in our hearts that we may never have an answer from the doctors, and that is ok! It does not mean that God is any less good. We can find rest in knowing that He is working in us. We rest in His goodness, His blessings, His faithfulness, His promises and His coming again.
John 10:10 says, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." Whatever season of life you find yourself in, may you live life to the full. Rest in His blessings.
We thank You for the becoming. We thank You for the rest we find in You and the life we HAVE IN YOU.
We are thankful for each season because it draws us closer to Him and allows us to become more like Him. I want to give thanks for each season daily, to train myself to give thanks in circumstances. Training will eventually become a habit, and a habit becomes a state of mind. Lord, train me to be thankful and grateful every single day.
What are you thankful for?
1 Chronicles 29:13, "Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name."
Psalm 106:1, "Praise the Lord. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever."
If 'giving thanks' is in scripture multiple times, there must be a reason for it. I know that it isn't in our human nature to be thankful, rather it is an attitude and discipline. Hebrews 12:11 says that a discipline at the time is unpleasant; however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those that have been trained by it. I am currently in a season of training. Looking at each facet of my life and training my mind and heart to be thankful in all circumstances, as Paul learned to be content in everything. I yearn for that.
On Thanksgiving day, my husband gave me a wonderful gift--he took care of our sweet baby and allowed me to shower and get ready in quiet. While getting ready, I was reflective of what season of life we are in and why we should be thankful. I was reminded of a wonderful book that I had the opportunity to help launch this year.
In Jenny Simmons' book The Road to Becoming, she breaks down each season of life: the dreaming/destruction, burying, lostness, waiting, and becoming. Her beautiful words bring me comfort for whatever this season of life it is that I am in, He will meet me there. I am thankful for each season of life, as I've been through each one, and I want to reflect and express my gratitude. I can see His hand in each season, and for that I am THANKFUL!
Thank Him in the Dreaming and Destruction
Life happens--both beautiful and sad. During this season, we are thankful that God is sovereign. We understand that He is in control, though it may not come easily. He paves the way. Lives are made new each day and sometimes that life is taken away. We can doubt God during this season or we can lean into His gracious arms. I've done both, and the doubting I did allowed me to draw closer to Him in time. It's how you handle the destruction that reflects your heart.
We are thankful because He is still there when all else fails.
We are thankful because He is the rock we cling when hard times come.
We are thankful because He is beside us in the midst of suffering.
Having walked through both dreaming and destruction while trying to start a family, I am so very grateful for the truth found in scripture.
Psalm 46:1, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."
We thank You because, in You, we dream and find hope in the season of dreaming and destruction. We thank You for trust, strength, and desire in this season. We thank You for hearing us when we call.
Thank Him in the Burying
Burying something is the acceptance of it being gone. The control you think you have over things is not truly in your hands. In the burying of these things, you soon realize that you should hold loosely to them. That doesn't mean that you shouldn't love well or fiercely nor should you live in fear that all will be stripped away; rather, you should live and love each day accepting that our hearts are made for things not of this earth. Our hope is in Christ alone.
We accept the grief that comes with burial. Grief allows your soul to heal. Burial brings grief and grief will eventually birth hope. We are thankful for that painful, yet magnificent, process!
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says, "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."
We thank You for the season of burial, for we know that through this season You are planning greater things. Our hope is in You and You alone. We thank You for allowing burial to happen and praise You for setting eternity in the hearts of men.
Thank Him in the Lostness
When we are lost, we think that no one knows where we are. But, being lost can be a wonderful thing! We can inhabit the stillness of being lost and listen, listen to what is happening around us. Find our bearings. Be reminded of our roots.
Sometimes I feel that God uses the lostness so that we can refocus on Him. When we've become so entangled in this life, when all is stripped away, and we investigate our hearts to find what truly matters. God is at the heart of it all. Lostness strips away the busy, the plans, the next steps. Lostness strips away the noise of this life.
After having two miscarriages, I often found myself crying in the car. Arguing with the Lord. I felt as though I was wrestling the Angel of the Lord, like Jacob at the Jabbok. This is when I felt lost. I recognized that God has a better plan, but I had put my hope in getting pregnant, because that's what others had told me. 'I was young. It's ok,' trying to brush the grief under the rug. The point of the lostness was to accept the burial and destruction that had taken place after the dreaming, and to know that God is who He says He is. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. In an effort to start a family, I put all my hope in that.
Psalm 46:10a, He says, “Be still, and know that I am God..."
We thank You for FINDING us, no matter how far we've gone, You'll ALWAYS find us. We thank You for calling out to us in our lostness. We thank You for the calm and stillness in this season.
Thank Him in the Waiting
I feel as though this is the season that we have one foot in--heading out of, but still in to some degree, as we have been waiting and trusting in the Lord for some clarity over our daughter's health issues. Waiting is hard. Waiting sucks. Even still, I am continually reminded that He is good.
We thank Him because we know that He is fighting for us.
Standing beside us.
Holding our hands.
He is faithful, even in the waiting.
He is preparing the way for us.
Jenny's words hit home with my heart: "I want to finish well--and finishing well means having the patience to wait when waiting is required...Sprinting to the finish line only shortchanges dreams that need divine time to come to life."
God uses this time of waiting to refine us. To grow us. To make all things new. To make us more like Him. It is in the lostness and the waiting that we see glimpses of Heaven, glimpses of what is to become in us.
2 Corinthians 5:17 says, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come."
We thank You for Your comfort, protection, and peace during the season of waiting. We thank You for allowing us to wait, trust, and lean in to Your plan.
Thank Him in the Becoming
Our other foot is stepping forward into the becoming. The acceptance of this new 'normal' for our lives and we want to live it.
Live every day and be thankful for each new mercy.
Each new morning.
Each new blood cell that is produced in our daughter's sweet marrow.
We are praising Him because we know that we are blessed. We know in our hearts that we may never have an answer from the doctors, and that is ok! It does not mean that God is any less good. We can find rest in knowing that He is working in us. We rest in His goodness, His blessings, His faithfulness, His promises and His coming again.
John 10:10 says, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." Whatever season of life you find yourself in, may you live life to the full. Rest in His blessings.
We thank You for the becoming. We thank You for the rest we find in You and the life we HAVE IN YOU.
-----------------------------
We are thankful for each season because it draws us closer to Him and allows us to become more like Him. I want to give thanks for each season daily, to train myself to give thanks in circumstances. Training will eventually become a habit, and a habit becomes a state of mind. Lord, train me to be thankful and grateful every single day.
What are you thankful for?
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
She Reads Truth :: Psalms of Gratitude, Day 2
In Day 2 of She Reads Truth's study Psalms of Gratitude, I am exploring Psalm 19:1-14. This Davidic psalm is written by one who has witnessed creation and scripture. When I look at creation, my busy and weary soul is calmed. Finding rest in what He has created for our pleasure. I am thankful for His goodness, His creation, and His perfection. I am continually learning to seek after Him (our Perfecter) not what the human mind conceives as perfection--I'll never be able to stack up. Because His law is perfect, I must confess my imperfections.
Who perceives my unintentional sins?
Who perceives my unintentional sins?
Cleanse me from _______________________.
my impatience.
my anger.
my judgement.
my brokenness.
Moreover, keep me from _______________________.
allowing those sins to harden my heart.
normalizing, rationalizing, and justifying those sins.
Do not let them rule over me.
Then I will be innocent and cleansed from blatant rebellion.
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to You, Lord, my rock and my Redeemer.
I recognize that I am broken and that makes Jesus all the more beautiful in my eyes. Thank you, Lord, for being far more than my human mind can fathom, for being bigger than my big worries and imperfections, and for seeing your Son when you see me.
Your glory abounds, may I reflect Your glory in all I do.
Diving into Psalm 19:12-14, what are some issues you are working to surrender to the Lord?
Monday, November 23, 2015
She Reads Truth :: Psalms of Gratitude, Day 1
During this time, I am going through She Reads Truth's "Psalms of Gratitude" Study. This is my response to day 1, Psalm 100. I know...I am starting late in the study, but this is a perfect season to express thanks. I love that the activity asks you to respond to God. This is my prayer, my thanksgiving, my song of gratitude to God.
Shout triumphantly to the Lord, all the earth.
Serve the Lord with gladness;
come before Him with joyful songs.
You are the Healer!
You restore & make all things new!
In me, You make all things new.
Acknowledge that Yahweh is God.
He made us, and we are His —
His people, the sheep of His pasture.
We are Yours, forever Yours.
Til the end of my days, remind me that I am Yours.
Even when we turn, we are Yours.
We are in Your hands.
Enter His gates with thanksgiving
and His courts with praise.
Give thanks to Him and praise His name.
We praise You because we are made in Your divine image.
Some piece of me reflects You, though I am unworthy.
You bend down and call me Yours.
I will praise You because each day is a blessing.
Though they can be hard, we praise You because each day is written in Your book.
May You be glorified by each of my days.
For Yahweh is good, and His love is eternal;
His faithfulness endures through all generations.
I know that I can write many more verses and versions of this song of thanks. My prayer is that this song would become a posture of praise, thanks, and worship to Him.
What does your song of gratitude look like? Follow along at SRT for more Psalms of Gratitude.
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