what the what?!

These last several months have been both crazy and beautiful. I've learned so much about myself, who He is shaping me to be, and what I'm doing.

A baby will cause time to both slow down and speed the frick up! It needs to stop. I love watching my sweet daughter experience life and grow, but I want to cherish each change--and I want time to stop while this happens. I want to soak it all in and bask in it.

On Mother's Day, we had the opportunity to dedicate little Harper to the Lord--we declared in front of friends and family that we would raise her in a home that would point her toward Jesus in all things. If that isn't convicting, I don't know what is! It's humbling to know that our house is the first church she will ever know, and I pray that we would love her with His love overflowing from our hearts.

Harper needs to know that I'm a sinner. I am imperfect and broken. She needs to see that the Lord loves me for me. She also needs to know that His Grace covers a multitude of sins. I pray over her sweet soul, overcome by His love, in awe that her soul MATTERS to Him.

When I cradle her in my arms, I often stare at her. I stare at her sweet face and kiss on her, reflecting of the unconditional love from our heavenly Father. I stare at all of the little hairs on her head--overwhelmed by the number, only to realize that He has already numbered them. I stare at her precious eyes, praying that they will see Jesus.

Though I know I make mistakes, I am grateful for this journey of motherhood. God is already teaching me so much in these first few months. I know there is so much more to come!

your breath in our lungs

It's Your breath in our lungs
So we pour out our praise

Wow--take a moment to enjoy the breath that is in your lungs! That was given to you by the Lord. This simple and moving lyric from the song 'Great are You Lord' by All Sons and Daughters has made a huge impression on my life. I'm unsure of the direct impression, as it could be because, prayerfully, the awe of what those lyrics truly mean.

God made something out of nothing! He made us out of the dust of the earth and the air from His lungs. He breathed His own life into us. Why would such a Creator do this? Because of His great love for us. Because He longs for a relationship with us.

In this truth, we find what praise and worship looks like--it should be every expelled breath from our lungs. Every moment of the day should be praise to Him.

momma always said

One thing I can forever count on is the following statement from my mother...
'Have you prayed about it? If you haven't, don't call me back until you do.'

This truth coming from my mom's mouth is such a wake-up call. So quickly do I want to jump to worry, fear, and control above what I should be doing--taking it to the feet of my Savior. I love talking to my mom because I know she will always bring this truth into the conversation.

When life brings difficult situations, I would rather gab about it to someone before taking it to God. I look to chat with someone whom I believe is listening and has my best interest at heart; however, in reality, God has both my best interest at heart and truly listened before I have even uttered a word. Prayer is something that should be so natural to us--we LOVE to talk, even if you are an introvert.

Corrie Ten Boom says this, 'What wings are to a bird, and sails to a ship, so is prayer to the soul.' Prayer gives us the ability to converse with the Lord, in an uninhibited and truly beautiful way. I love knowing that I get to bring the daily dealings of my life to my God--who is gladly listening to every woe and joy. He relishes in that and so should I! If nothing else, it should encourage you to take even the smallest of things to His feet, because who wants to worry & stress over it anyway?!

Philippians 4:6 says, 'do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.'

Teaching With Love and Laughter: 500 Follower Giveaway! It's a B-I-G One!

Guys, check out this great giveaway!!! What a great start to summer... :)


Teaching With Love and Laughter: 500 Follower Giveaway! It's a B-I-G One!: I am so excited to have reached over 500 followers! To show my sincere appreciation, I have put together a BIG giveaway, which includes prod...

Summer 2012

I have realized that I haven't posted at all...and I apologize! The school year was great and I already miss several of my kiddos. :) There's an awesome giveaway that is going down all over blog land!! Check this one out::

2012

Wow! Can you say, 'it's been forever' since I have blogged? Yes, you can. :/

It's now 2012 and I, like most, have some resolutions for this year.

-run a half-marathon. I'm going to sign up for it next week! I'll be running at the end of October.
-after straying from a reading plan, I'd like to actually read the Bible in one year.
-surrender the anger I have when driving to the Lord.
-eat healthier to be able to run my half-marathon.
-simply be thankful for what I have in this life--a family, friends, the sun rising and setting each day, etc.
-cut back on things I don't truly need--e.g. the coffee from Starbucks or those last minute items from HEB.
-call family more often--I call my parents daily, but I want to be in contact with my extended side, as well as Tyler's.
-spend time listening to the Lord. Set aside time during the crazy busy day to truly hear from Him.

What are the resolutions you have put before yourself for this year?

Dollar Tree - To You, From Me!

Sunny Days in Second Grade is hosting an AWESOME giveaway!

I am seriously hoping I pull off the win in this one! :)


Check it out for yourself!
Sunny Days in Second Grade: Dollar Tree - To You, From Me!: I have developed a bit of an addiction to Dollar Tree. I can quickly think of six locations within driving distance, which restaurants are ...