What I Learned | September

I would love to start linking up with Emily P. Freeman at the end of each month for a 'What I Learned' series.

During the month of September, I learned some simple things and some hard truths. Looking forward to all that October has in store!

1. Booking flights to New York on a whim can be SO much fun.

I caught Tyler trying to surprise me...and now I am pumped! We plan to go to The Lone Bellow show, and I'm not sure of what else, but it's going to be great! It will be our first trip together since Harper has been born. I'm so looking forward to some time together! Here's to finding some awesome things to do in New York!

2. I cannot control everything that happens to my child.

Parenting is humbling in this regard! I know in my head that I cannot control her and that she is in the Lord's hands; however, sometimes my heart doesn't want that. My heart wants to control all the details, the small and big things. I continually remind myself that she is His, she's never been mine, and I TRUST that!

3. I love The Lone Bellow band.

AND, we are going to see them in November. I could not be more excited! More importantly, listening to them during my work day creates such a beautiful marriage between output and enjoyment! Keep that music pumpin' and the work gets crankin' out. That is how my mind operates.

4. My soul needs rest.

A weekend, or even a few hours, away can be truly restorative. My heart needs rest. My mind needs rest. My body needs it too. I cannot tell you how beautiful it was to have a weekend away with some of my girlfriends. I'm so grateful that my husband was willing to take care of little Harper for the weekend, this mamma needed it!

5. I'm addicted to helping launch books.

I've taken part in four launch teams now. I so look forward to diving into the next book. This has been a beautiful opportunity to explore new authors and create a sense of urgency in reading a book in a timely manner. Plus, I'm so grateful for the community that has been built as a result of the launch team. The Lord has used these books in many ways in my life. And now I have more great recommendations, if anyone is in need!

6. Jen Hatmaker is awesome.

 

She invited everyone on her launch team to her house in September. Mind you, there are 500 people on the launch team. Bless her. There were over 200 of us that were able to make it & it was truly an incredible time! The discussions that were had while there were amazing! I'm praying that the Lord continues to use those relationships in my life.

7. Exercising is hard.

Goodness me. Working out after having a child (+ not working out much while pregnant) can be pretty stinking challenging. I signed up for my first 5k post-baby and I am so excited! I know it will be hard, but I need a goal. I need something to work toward, and Run 4 The Water 5K is it! Game on.

8. Blue Apron is a great thing.

We've been using Blue Apron for a few weeks now and it wonderful! With a very young babe, having a predetermined menu sent to your doorstep is a beautiful thing. I often don't have the capacity to think about things like dinner, or showering for that matter. The meals are delicious and healthy. Currently, it is worth it in this season of life.

An Open Letter...To Me

You often have a million sticky notes everywhere to remind yourself of things. The importance of each of these events varies.

Rather than keeping a running record on old, crumpled sticky notes, I thought I could compose a letter to myself (or bullet points, if you will). This letter will be continued. My life will change and the things I need to remember may change upon the season of life I'm in.

Remember these things in this season...
-Let it go. Let the LORD take control of that which is already His. And that's everything. No one wants to be an Indian giver, so let it all go.

-Enjoy each giggle and coo. You never know when the last coo will be, and soon enough she will be into boys and may never want to talk to you about things. Cooing is the best. The best way to wake up is the cooing in the monitor, truly. Enjoy it.

-Sleep...some other time. It's okay. Your body will eventually tell you when you're in need of more than what you are giving. Sleep is often overrated as it is.

-Enjoy a bath. Umm, yes please. Bath salts, candles, fruit, wine and a good book. Relax, because this American life has taken its toll. We're taught 'hustle & bustle' early and it never stops. Rest. I'm sure the family won't fall apart while you are doing this. Life moves on, and you can step away to enjoy some 'you' time.

-Pray more. Prayer doesn't always have to take shape as one thinks. Prayer can take the form of hiking and running. Reading and singing. Playing and working. When viewed in that light, prayer is easy, amazing, and enjoyable! Do MORE of it.

-Let yourself off the hook. Jesus freed you from unrealistic expectations, don't put them back on. Don't look back. Enjoy it.

-Grace on grace on grace. Do it. Accept it. Show it. Give it. Love it. Practice it. Repeat previous steps until it is a habit.

-Encourage more. It's a spiritual gift after all. Enjoy it and enjoy all that it brings others too! Encourage your husband, your daughter, your friends. Encourage the community you have. Encourage others because you never know what people are going through. One simple expression of encouragement can change someone's day--whether or not you see it. No one will turn down an encouraging word. If they do, that's just plain weird...and it's not your problem.

-Savor each cup of coffee and meal with others. Community is life. Start a supper club or coffee dates. Just do it--you won't regret it.

These are reminders in my life to ENJOY life more! The LORD has come that we may have life and life to the FULL--John 10:10b. Just do it.

Sincerely,
me

#FridayFive :: Five Re-Reads

Good morning!

I'm linking up with a few other #ftllaunchteam ladies for this #FridayFive! Today I'll be sharing my five favorite books to re-read...and it's going to be tough! I have had the chance to read so many great books lately.

5. The Irresistible Revolution, Shane Claiborne. After reading this in high school, I was wrecked! Reading about the radical lives of Christians in other parts of the world, I was floored with how selfishly I was living. I hated it and wanted change EVERYTHING--thank you hormonal, teenage brain for thinking that I could do this all on my own! I have previously owned two copies of this book...I cannot find them currently. If you are someone that I lent this great read to, I'll take it back now. :) Click here to snag a copy today!

4. The Reason for God, Tim Keller. This book is phenomenal. For every doubt that I've had and every question that non-believers and believers alike ask, it is addressed! Though it can be a little dense and difficult to read at times (eg--when it's bedtime and your brain is no longer functioning), it is packed with great truth. Working with students, I find that this is a great resource to have. He addresses the complexity of the Holy Spirit,  I am encouraged by Tim Keller and the response to doubt. If we learn further into the truth through doubting and questioning, we will find it. Check out the book for yourself!

3. Redefining Beautiful, Jenna Lucado. I LOVE using this text with middle and high school girls! Jenna discusses what God sees when He looks at us--His Son! The world is quick to put labels and expectations on us in all areas, Jenna writes about the Lord freeing us from that. I'm glad that I've been able to read through this with a few girls as it forces me to re-read it as well and I love it! Maybe it's because I wish I would have had this book while in those years of horrible hair and awkward dress, but I want each girl to own this book...or at least know the truth! Song of Songs 4:7, "You are altogether beautiful, my darling; there is no flaw in you." Click here to purchase a copy!

2. The Road to Becoming, Jenny Simmons. I so look forward to re-reading this book. I was blessed to take part in Jenny's launching of this book. No matter the season, her words meet you there. That being said, I know that I will be able to read this book over and over. I've already dog-eared and highlighted a bunch! Jenny invites you in to the personal stories of her life, her hardships and heartache, and shares what the Lord has done in her life through those things. It is comforting, encouraging, and funny. Grab your copy today!

1. For the Love, Jen Hatmaker.  I'm not just adding this because I am on her launch team. I am adding this because no matter what season of life I am in, I KNOW that I will be able to glean something from this book. It's a great and easy read, filled will truth bombs--both heart-wrenching and hilarious. Your heart needs the words in this book, as does mine. I will make a point to re-read For the Love often and I hope you do too! Purchase your copy here!

Extras

Bossypants, Tina Fey. Hilarious, again and again! Naturally, Tine writes in a way that will have you laughing out loud. While reading this book on a flight, read with caution! Hilarity will ensue and it could result in removal of persons on plane. Even better than reading it is listening to Tina read it!

Matilda, Roald Dahl. Probably my favorite book as a child. I always wanted to be Miss Honey. I despised the Trunchbull and definitely wanted a slice of that chocolate cake!

The Westing Game, Ellen Raskin. I cannot tell you how many times I read this novel as a kid. I loved catching new clues each time.

Nancy Drew Series, Carolyn Keene. Because I grew up reading these books, I naturally felt like I could protect myself and punch out the taillight of someone's vehicle if I ever got nabbed. Obviously I was a 5th grade bad ass.

Stephanie Plum Series, Janet Evanovich. Goodness, Stephanie gets herself into some crazy tales as a female bounty hunter and I love it! I read these on my iPad and devour them--though, I do not like the way Janet gives a synopsis of each character at the beginning of the book. If I'm reading the fifteenth book in the series, I'm fairly certain I know the characters and I'm invested in the story line. No need for the intro, Janet, Stephanie and I are BFFs.

Do you have any favorite books you like to re-read or want to?

After writing about all of these great books, I'm off to cozy up with a cup of coffee and book in hand!

what's in a name?

What's in a name?

When naming a child, one feels pressure to select a 'perfect' name. You take into consideration who the child could become, what characteristics he/she could have. Additionally, having previously been a teacher, some names were deemed 'unusable.'

Harper Acadia. It's not a typical name. I've known for quite some time that I wanted to give my children unique names; it is likely because my name falls under that category as well--thank you, mom & dad! Harper actually stems from a visitor that attended our church. None of my students had that name, so I had no previous experience with it---aside from Harper Lee. Acadia has a beautiful story behind it.

Hiking with a 21 week baby bump!

Last October, we visited Acadia National Park in Maine. It was absolutely gorgeous--these pictures don't do it justice. We love to hike and explore, this was the perfect trip to do just that! The week before our trip, we found out that we were having a girl!

While in Acadia, we were blown away by the magnificence that we were surrounded by. As we hiked, I was struck by the beauty and the presence of the Lord. I was given a peace about this pregnancy--over our sweet daughter.

After having two miscarriages, each time I would go to the doctor, there was always a bit of hesitance present. Wondering. Doubting. Worrying. Questioning whether we were still pregnant or not. While in Acadia, I experienced a peace and comfort like never before. The Lord confirmed for me that this pregnancy was in His hands--as were the other two--and His Hands are exactly where my children belong! I was reassured that He is faithful. That regardless of my doubt, He was (and will forever be) good. Sovereign. Magnificent.

I was blown away by His Presence. His Faithfulness. His Gentle Reassurance. The beauty we were surrounded by was a minute picture of all that He has created. Because of these experiences, we wanted to raise up an Ebeneezer to forever remember that moment. Giving Harper her middle name is our physical representation and reminder of God's faithfulness in our lives.

We long to take Harper to her namesake. We want her to know that she is beautiful. We want her to know that she is in His Hands. We want her to know that her Creator is faithful. Harper Acadia is a true blessing.

Panoramic shot on one of our hikes.

For the Love

Several months ago, I became one of the #500. This became a band of women (and four men) that rallied around Jen Hatmaker's new book For The Love that launched yesterday! (You can snag your copy here!)

It has been a joy and a privilege to partake in something like this. I have never so quickly been enveloped into community, where we were once all strangers and now feel like we know one another, truly. Never did I think that the Launch Team would result in community, but it has and it's been a HUGE blessing in my life.

When I received the book in March, I knew it was going to be a good one! 7 wrecked me and so did Interrupted, so I knew I was in for a treat. Jen's words were a breath of fresh air, especially as I was journeying into motherhood. The idea of letting myself off the hook to receive God's grace and then to give His grace freely to others, it is truly freeing. As a first time mother, I set standards for myself. Wanted to do this or not do that. Ultimately being judgmental. For the love! I knew I needed to let it go. Each of Jen's chapters is a short essay that I read through in a matter of a few days--quick and easy to read, packed with TRUTH and hilarity. My highlighter ran out of ink.

At this point, my daughter is 6 months old and I am nowhere near a perfect parent and I never will be (BLESS.); however, I know that God's grace covers all. That is the true message. Grace covers all. We can never be perfect, why do we expect that from ourselves and from others? It results in invented standards that will never be met, unrealistic expectations, and shackles. The message echoed from Jesus and Jen: we are free! We are free to be ourselves, play our note, live the life we've been given! Once we let ourselves off the hook, we can do that for everyone else and live our lives as they are intended.

If you aren't convinced to buy this book NOW,  I hope you enjoy the book trailer! OR, search #forthelove on IG, Twitter, Pinterest, etc. Surely those posts alone would beckon one to add this lovely book to an Amazon cart or scurry to Barnes & Noble to pick up a copy! There are also several wonderful Launch Team Members that are giving away a copy--check out one of them here.

Below is a blurb about the book:

Best-selling author Jen Hatmaker is convinced life can be lovely and fun and courageous and kind. She knows how the squeeze of this life can make us competitive and judgmental, how we can lose love for others and then for ourselves. In For the Love, she reveals how to:

• Break free of guilt and shame by dismantling the unattainable Pinterest life.
• Learn to engage our culture’s controversial issues with a grace-first approach.
• Be liberated to love and release the burden of always being right.
• Identify the tools you already have to develop real-life, all-in, know-my-junk-but-love-me-anyway friendships.
• Escape our impossible standards for parenting and marriage by accepting the standard of “mostly good.”
• Laugh your butt off.

Below is one of my endorsements:

What a freeing read this book is! I’m so grateful for the words in this book, it is exactly what my soul needed. Pare down your life to grace and all else will follow suit. I look forward to sharing this message in my everyday life.

~ LaRae; wife, first time momma, lover of encouraging others, exploring the outdoors, & following Jesus. Austin, TX

By grace, we are called to live this life. Let's live it well!

This blog post is part of of blog tour to help launch Jen’s book, For The Love. The blog tour will take place August 18th through September 30, 2015.  To check out the other blogs click HERE!

vigorous

vig·or·ous

/ˈviɡ(ə)rəs/

adjective

strong, healthy, and full of energy

synonyms: robust, healthy, hale and hearty, strong, sturdy, fit 

-characterized by or involving physical strength, effort, or energy. 

This is how I want to live life. With vigor. Our pediatrician described our daughter in this way. Now, that is my prayer for her!

In light of recent events that put my 6 month old daughter in the hospital, it has caused me to be reflective. I've learned a few things since this journey has begun:

Trust: Because we were in the hospital for 6 six days, it really got me thinking and trusting in the Lord's goodness. No matter what the doctors or hematologists would say, I knew that someone was fighting for my daughter--standing beside my family. We were covered in prayer, and still are! Doctors don't know exactly what's going on; however, we know that we can trust the Lord. He has her in His hands. He is forever good. If doctors don't find out what's wrong, we may never have the answer, even so--He. Is. Good. Always. Forever.

Balance my Beam: This hospital stay required me to push a lot of things off of my beam. Jen Hatmaker discusses this in her new book, For the Love. (You should DEFINITELY order it!) We each have our own beam to balance on. Essentially, we overload our beam because we say 'yes' to too many things. We cannot do it all. We simply cannot. During our time in the hospital, I sought to re-balance my beam--what things do I need in my life that are absolutely life-giving and what things can I set aside for another time? My community will forever be on my beam--I thrive on it. Activities to keep me busy/distracted--off the beam. Watching TV--off the beam for a while. Cherishing our time with our daughter--on the beam. I want to enjoy life, with vigor. I want to focus in on what's important and set aside the things that are not.

When you balance the beam you have, you CAN live life with vigor. That's what I want to do daily. I want to be intentional with the live I have been given.

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!