I got some sad news this weekend.
It's so hard for me to hear about and know when my friends are struggling... I want to be able to help them in every way I can, but in many situations, a listening ear and offering up prayers are the most that can be done. While I know that is more than enough, many times I still feel like I should be doing more.
Then I come across sections of Scripture that just speak so clearly in these types of situations:
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.
(2 Corinthians 1:3-4, NIV)
I know I have gone through many heartaches in my life...and have received immense comfort from my Father. To know that I can take that same comfort and help someone else with it is so powerful.
The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.
(James 5:16b, NIV)
And it goes back to one of my new favorites as well:
Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
(Galatians 6:2, NIV)
My heart goes out to those who are hurting. My prayers are for them to be healed and restored by the power of Christ.
If your heart is heavy or burdened, lean in to God. He's got your back. He wants this to happen in your life:
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
(Matthew 11:28, NIV)
Monday, February 28, 2011
Friday, February 25, 2011
Latest Pieces of Happiness
I haven't posted pics of my jewelry in awhile, so I decided to post some.
Sorry the pics aren't the best. I didn't realize how much not having the flash on affected them.
This is one of my favorites. I love how it turned out. I actually don't wear it so the beads are right next to each other like that. I wear it off-center and I love it :)
A little close-up of the beads. My hubby thinks the big black ones look like licorice.
I also really like this one. It's a little dressier than the last one...and it's the longest necklace I've made.
Look at how pretty those beads are!
I LOVE this clasp! I bought a pack of these a couple of weeks ago and they are, by far, my absolute favorite. I love hearts...and these clasps are just amazing.
This was the first necklace I made with chain. I love the beads. They are a little funky, so I feel a little funky when I wear this necklace.
I wear this one off-center, too. It's more fun that way.
I love the chain, too. It's so fun!
I have other beads I'm waiting to do something with...and I have a couple of necklaces I made for friends that I'm not posting pics of, because they haven't gotten them yet! I just love making them!
Sorry the pics aren't the best. I didn't realize how much not having the flash on affected them.
This is one of my favorites. I love how it turned out. I actually don't wear it so the beads are right next to each other like that. I wear it off-center and I love it :)
A little close-up of the beads. My hubby thinks the big black ones look like licorice.
I also really like this one. It's a little dressier than the last one...and it's the longest necklace I've made. 
Look at how pretty those beads are!
I LOVE this clasp! I bought a pack of these a couple of weeks ago and they are, by far, my absolute favorite. I love hearts...and these clasps are just amazing.
This was the first necklace I made with chain. I love the beads. They are a little funky, so I feel a little funky when I wear this necklace.
I wear this one off-center, too. It's more fun that way.
I love the chain, too. It's so fun!I have other beads I'm waiting to do something with...and I have a couple of necklaces I made for friends that I'm not posting pics of, because they haven't gotten them yet! I just love making them!
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Slapped in the Face...or More Patience
EVERYONE is getting pregnant.
Seriously.
Ok, not everyone.
That is definitely an exaggeration.
But just this week, I found out two other FB friends are pregnant.
And, I have at least 6 other friends who are also expecting.
I am SO happy for them. Truly. I am so glad that God is choosing to bless their lives with a little bundle of joy...as many of them are having their first.
Yet...
I can't help but feel slapped in the face every time it happens. Is this some kind of sick joke? Does God really want me to suffer this much?
We are quickly approaching the two year mark of the day I stopped taking my birth control pills. We just hit our third wedding anniversary yesterday. And, I can't help but feel like I've been patient enough...and it should be my time now.
But...
Is that what God wants for me? To demand that my timing is better than His? The CREATOR of the universe? The One who knew me before I was even conceived?
A friend of mine posted this verse in her blog a couple of days ago...and it was in the chapter I was reading in Crazy Love this week. Coincidence? I think not...
Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.
(Jeremiah 1:5 NIV)
God set me apart for a purpose...HIS purpose. Why am I constantly trying to think that my purpose and my will are better than His? I know I will get pregnant when the timing is right...and yet...some days it's just so hard to hold onto that truth.
Oh Jesus, I really need Your help to be more patient...especially on these days when I want nothing but my own will. Help me learn to trust You more and more.
Seriously.
Ok, not everyone.
That is definitely an exaggeration.
But just this week, I found out two other FB friends are pregnant.
And, I have at least 6 other friends who are also expecting.
I am SO happy for them. Truly. I am so glad that God is choosing to bless their lives with a little bundle of joy...as many of them are having their first.
Yet...
I can't help but feel slapped in the face every time it happens. Is this some kind of sick joke? Does God really want me to suffer this much?
We are quickly approaching the two year mark of the day I stopped taking my birth control pills. We just hit our third wedding anniversary yesterday. And, I can't help but feel like I've been patient enough...and it should be my time now.
But...
Is that what God wants for me? To demand that my timing is better than His? The CREATOR of the universe? The One who knew me before I was even conceived?
A friend of mine posted this verse in her blog a couple of days ago...and it was in the chapter I was reading in Crazy Love this week. Coincidence? I think not...
Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.
(Jeremiah 1:5 NIV)
God set me apart for a purpose...HIS purpose. Why am I constantly trying to think that my purpose and my will are better than His? I know I will get pregnant when the timing is right...and yet...some days it's just so hard to hold onto that truth.
Oh Jesus, I really need Your help to be more patient...especially on these days when I want nothing but my own will. Help me learn to trust You more and more.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Things Left on my Doorstep
I got home today and found this in my mailbox:
It goes on to give details of where their services are located and when.
It also had a tract in the envelope.
It was so strange for me to see, as I have NEVER received a handwritten, mailed note from anyone that was trying to convert me to their beliefs. I don't know that I have this much passion to do the same for someone I've never met. While I am not Jehovah's Witness, I admire this woman's drive...that she would go so far as to physically write and mail a letter to a complete stranger (though I'm still a little weirded out as to how she knew my name).
This was also on my porch...after I got home:
It also had a card from my Secret Sister. A beautiful anniversary present that fits my hubby and I so well. She knows what I like for sure!
It goes on to give details of where their services are located and when.
It also had a tract in the envelope.
It was so strange for me to see, as I have NEVER received a handwritten, mailed note from anyone that was trying to convert me to their beliefs. I don't know that I have this much passion to do the same for someone I've never met. While I am not Jehovah's Witness, I admire this woman's drive...that she would go so far as to physically write and mail a letter to a complete stranger (though I'm still a little weirded out as to how she knew my name).
This was also on my porch...after I got home:
It also had a card from my Secret Sister. A beautiful anniversary present that fits my hubby and I so well. She knows what I like for sure!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
The Happiest Place on Earth
The hubby and I went on our anniversary trip to Disneyland this last week.
As I posted in my last blog, I was pretty worried about the weather being a huge issue for us. Thankfully, it was not. It rained every evening we were in the park...but we didn't have any crazy weather for the drive there or back. The worst of the rain hit while we were standing outside watching the World of Color show...but the show was SO worth the rain! I was very thankful we borrowed my mom's rain ponchos.
Here are a few pics from our trip:
The new signage they have in between the two parks now. It's supposed to look like the original Disneyland logo.
I loved all the Mardi Gras decorations. So pretty!
Snow White's wishing well
The clouds were incredible while we were there
We became Honorary Bugs :)
We have a pic in front of this for almost every Disneyland trip we've gone on together.
I love the Castle :)
It was a really fun trip. It went by far too fast, though...but isn't that how it always is?
If you are planning a trip to Disneyland in the near future, seriously get fast passes for the World of Color as soon as Disney California Adventure opens. The fast passes are distributed at the Grizzly River Run fast pass machines. And, you'll want to return an hour before the show starts, like they recommend, or else little people may not have a very good view of the show. It's amazing!
As I posted in my last blog, I was pretty worried about the weather being a huge issue for us. Thankfully, it was not. It rained every evening we were in the park...but we didn't have any crazy weather for the drive there or back. The worst of the rain hit while we were standing outside watching the World of Color show...but the show was SO worth the rain! I was very thankful we borrowed my mom's rain ponchos.
Here are a few pics from our trip:
The new signage they have in between the two parks now. It's supposed to look like the original Disneyland logo.
I loved all the Mardi Gras decorations. So pretty!
Snow White's wishing well
The clouds were incredible while we were there
We became Honorary Bugs :)
We have a pic in front of this for almost every Disneyland trip we've gone on together.
I love the Castle :)It was a really fun trip. It went by far too fast, though...but isn't that how it always is?
If you are planning a trip to Disneyland in the near future, seriously get fast passes for the World of Color as soon as Disney California Adventure opens. The fast passes are distributed at the Grizzly River Run fast pass machines. And, you'll want to return an hour before the show starts, like they recommend, or else little people may not have a very good view of the show. It's amazing!
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Peace
So, I was really freaking out tonight.
We are leaving tomorrow for our anniversary trip...and there is a storm coming. It's supposed to be raining on our way there...two of the days we are there...and on the way home...with a possibility of snow in certain parts. Crazyness!
Me, being the calm, rational, non-worrier that I am (ahem), took this news with stride...and did what I do best...freak out. I started looking up the hour by hour weather, trying to see how bad it was going to be. I looked up weather along our route to see what parts of our journey might be the worst. I started thinking, what if we can't go? What if we get stuck on the way there or back? What if all the money we put into this is lost because it doesn't work out?
Then, I remembered something...
Oh yeah...
God doesn't want me to worry.
So I opened up my Bible and wrote this verse down as one to work on memorizing. I'm pretty sure I've used it in other blogs...and if I haven't...I really should have:
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
(Philippians 4:6-7, NIV)
I really do wish I wasn't such a worrier. I really do wish that I thought of asking God to calm my nerves at the very beginning. I really do wish I wasn't such a problem solver...and let God solve more of my problems for me.
Sigh.
I am going to spend some more time praying and reflecting on God...and trust that He's got this...and I don't have to worry about it one single bit.
We are leaving tomorrow for our anniversary trip...and there is a storm coming. It's supposed to be raining on our way there...two of the days we are there...and on the way home...with a possibility of snow in certain parts. Crazyness!
Me, being the calm, rational, non-worrier that I am (ahem), took this news with stride...and did what I do best...freak out. I started looking up the hour by hour weather, trying to see how bad it was going to be. I looked up weather along our route to see what parts of our journey might be the worst. I started thinking, what if we can't go? What if we get stuck on the way there or back? What if all the money we put into this is lost because it doesn't work out?
Then, I remembered something...
Oh yeah...
God doesn't want me to worry.
So I opened up my Bible and wrote this verse down as one to work on memorizing. I'm pretty sure I've used it in other blogs...and if I haven't...I really should have:
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
(Philippians 4:6-7, NIV)
I really do wish I wasn't such a worrier. I really do wish that I thought of asking God to calm my nerves at the very beginning. I really do wish I wasn't such a problem solver...and let God solve more of my problems for me.
Sigh.
I am going to spend some more time praying and reflecting on God...and trust that He's got this...and I don't have to worry about it one single bit.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Love for You: Day Fourteen
Once again...this is a little late...but better late than never, right?
Today's post is all about the greatest lover I've ever known.
God - You created me in my mother's womb...before she even knew I was there. You had a purpose for my life before I was even thought of. You spoke into my heart before I even knew who You were. You knew before time what my life would look like...and that I would be sitting here in this very moment, writing this blog. You know every deep, dark secret I try to hide...as well as all of the not-so-secret parts of me. You gave me a heart for listening to people, for desiring to help them however I can, and for loving them. You gave me a love of writing, reading, singing, and baking. You sent Your Son on a cross to die for my sins...the very sins that nailed Him to that cross. You know every time I'm going to mess up before I do it...and yet You still love me. You have drawn me back to Yourself time and time again...whenever I've started to focus on myself and not on You. You have given me the perfect passages to read at just the right times...that speak to my heart in such powerful ways...and remind me of how much I need You in my life. You have never left me alone, and have always provided for my needs. You put me in this town...that I've lived in my entire life...for a reason. You have brought many wonderful people in and out of my life...people I will cherish forever. You have given me such amazing desires for my present and future. You have given me wonderful opportunities to serve You and Your people. I am so blown away at the things You've allowed me to do for You. I am so grateful to be Your instrument. Thank You for loving me the way You do. Thank You for sending Your Son to die so that I can live in the freedom of Your grace. Thank You for picking me up each time I fall, and for being the only One I can always depend on. You are such a gracious and mighty God, a God of wrath and a God of love. I am so thankful that all Your ways are beyond my comprehension...I would hate for You to be easy to figure out. I am so thankful for the family You put me in, for the husband You brought into my life, for the church family You led me to, and for the amazing friends You've given to me. I am so overwhelmed when I think of all You've done for me...when I deserve none of it. I can't say enough how grateful I am for everything...
I love You with all my heart, Jesus.
Today's post is all about the greatest lover I've ever known.
God - You created me in my mother's womb...before she even knew I was there. You had a purpose for my life before I was even thought of. You spoke into my heart before I even knew who You were. You knew before time what my life would look like...and that I would be sitting here in this very moment, writing this blog. You know every deep, dark secret I try to hide...as well as all of the not-so-secret parts of me. You gave me a heart for listening to people, for desiring to help them however I can, and for loving them. You gave me a love of writing, reading, singing, and baking. You sent Your Son on a cross to die for my sins...the very sins that nailed Him to that cross. You know every time I'm going to mess up before I do it...and yet You still love me. You have drawn me back to Yourself time and time again...whenever I've started to focus on myself and not on You. You have given me the perfect passages to read at just the right times...that speak to my heart in such powerful ways...and remind me of how much I need You in my life. You have never left me alone, and have always provided for my needs. You put me in this town...that I've lived in my entire life...for a reason. You have brought many wonderful people in and out of my life...people I will cherish forever. You have given me such amazing desires for my present and future. You have given me wonderful opportunities to serve You and Your people. I am so blown away at the things You've allowed me to do for You. I am so grateful to be Your instrument. Thank You for loving me the way You do. Thank You for sending Your Son to die so that I can live in the freedom of Your grace. Thank You for picking me up each time I fall, and for being the only One I can always depend on. You are such a gracious and mighty God, a God of wrath and a God of love. I am so thankful that all Your ways are beyond my comprehension...I would hate for You to be easy to figure out. I am so thankful for the family You put me in, for the husband You brought into my life, for the church family You led me to, and for the amazing friends You've given to me. I am so overwhelmed when I think of all You've done for me...when I deserve none of it. I can't say enough how grateful I am for everything...
I love You with all my heart, Jesus.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Love for You: Day Thirteen
Today's post is all about someone very important in my life.
Hubby - You and I met a long time ago...so long ago, that I don't remember the exact day. But, I didn't really know you and we weren't friends by any means. Yet, years after that, we "met" again at a mutual friend's house, as we watched Pirates of the Caribbean. You had just broken up with a long distance girlfriend, and I had been single for awhile...and was not looking for anything. You sat down next to me and kind of flirted with me...and I wasn't sure what to think. It wasn't until 4 months later, though, that you made your "move". I was getting out of class at the community college and I got a text that said Hey. I replied, asking who it was, to find out it was you. You proceeded to ask me what I was up to...and we found out we had both just gotten out of class at the same college. You were with your buddy at Panda Express and asked me if I wanted to join you...and I did. It was a pretty enjoyable lunch...even though I was very self-conscious of the ridiculous shirt I was wearing and how horrible my hair looked. We found each other on Myspace (that dates us a little, doesn't it?) and started talking on AIM (oh, the good ol' days). You asked me on a date...which we went on three days after that Panda lunch. You picked me up...and we were both wearing green shirts (it was pretty funny). You took me to a small Mexican restaurant. We had a wonderful time. You were leaving that day for a winter camp with your church's youth group and told me you would call me when you got back...and you did. We went to your friend's house and hung out with some people, and then went to Starbucks and hung out with them there. When you drove me home, we held hands and we pretty much decided to date. Then...about a week later, you called me up and said you didn't think it was right for us to be together...and we broke up. I was devastated. Yet, we remained friends.
We went on a trip to Disneyland with L.B. and C.M. and hung out with some fun people down there. It was one of the best trips I've been on. We went to Magic Mountain the first day, Disneyland the second, and the beach and thrift shopping the third. Our friends came back with us and we went to Yosemite the next day...and they went to San Francisco the day after. It was a fun trip...and I could tell that you still sort of had feelings for me. Two weeks later, we went to meet your best friend's girlfriend where she lived and had dinner together at the Red Robin there...and on the way home, you put your arm around me the whole way home. You insisted your friend drop us off at your house so you could take me home yourself...and you had your arm around me the entire way to my house. Then, when we were in front of my house, you kissed me, and I asked if that meant things were different. We began dating again and spent time together as much as we could. We were together for about a month...in which time I met most of your family and got invited to your brother's wedding...and then you broke up with me again. You were nervous, as you admitted later, because you knew I really loved you...and you weren't ready for that kind of relationship. So, we spent the rest of the summer apart. We were still friends (amazingly enough) and you told me about all the girls you were dating. It was hard for me to hear, and I would get pretty upset at times, but I was glad we were still talking. I was hoping that some part of you would change your mind and you'd want to be with me again. But, after awhile, I started liking someone else...and started pursuing a relationship with him. I thought things were going great with him...and then he told me he was dating someone else...and I was back to being single.
You told me a couple of different times during those four months that you wanted to get back together with me...but then you'd change your mind. You even told me once that your dad told you that you were stupid for breaking up with me, because he thought I was the girl you were supposed to marry...and you told me, "Well, if you like her so much, YOU marry her!" (Something I laugh about now) Yet, something must have changed in your heart at some point.
I remember being in Starbucks with L.B., doing our homework, and a friend you two went to high school with walked in. He was asking about you, so she decided to text you to see what you were doing. She invited you down to Starbucks and you came...and my heart skipped a beat. There was something different about you that day...something different about that interaction. But, you left...and she and I left...and my day went on. I got home and you were on AIM. You told me that you had feelings for me again and wanted to know if I still felt that way (which, of course, I did). You wanted to get together that evening, so you asked me to meet you at a park by your house. So, I met you there and we kissed on the bottom of one of the slides...and the rest is history.
We were engaged a little over a year later...married a little over a year after that...and are celebrating our third year of marriage in a little over a week.
We have had good times and bad...we've experienced births, deaths, and everything in between. Yet, our love has remained strong and God has been so faithful to us. I know He orchestrated our relationship...because He made everything work out perfectly. We both know if we would have stayed together from day 1, we probably wouldn't be married. We needed those months apart to know what we were missing.
You are my rock, my encourager...you lead me...and correct me when I'm wrong...and love me no matter what. You are amazing...and I'm beaming so much right now thinking about our love story. Even though it's a little muddy...I think it's the best love story we could ever have. These almost 6 years of being together have been such an amazing journey...and I can't wait to see where God is going to take us in the next six...and the six after that...and the hopefully many sixes after that...
I love you so much, dear Joshua, and I hope you know that.
Hubby - You and I met a long time ago...so long ago, that I don't remember the exact day. But, I didn't really know you and we weren't friends by any means. Yet, years after that, we "met" again at a mutual friend's house, as we watched Pirates of the Caribbean. You had just broken up with a long distance girlfriend, and I had been single for awhile...and was not looking for anything. You sat down next to me and kind of flirted with me...and I wasn't sure what to think. It wasn't until 4 months later, though, that you made your "move". I was getting out of class at the community college and I got a text that said Hey. I replied, asking who it was, to find out it was you. You proceeded to ask me what I was up to...and we found out we had both just gotten out of class at the same college. You were with your buddy at Panda Express and asked me if I wanted to join you...and I did. It was a pretty enjoyable lunch...even though I was very self-conscious of the ridiculous shirt I was wearing and how horrible my hair looked. We found each other on Myspace (that dates us a little, doesn't it?) and started talking on AIM (oh, the good ol' days). You asked me on a date...which we went on three days after that Panda lunch. You picked me up...and we were both wearing green shirts (it was pretty funny). You took me to a small Mexican restaurant. We had a wonderful time. You were leaving that day for a winter camp with your church's youth group and told me you would call me when you got back...and you did. We went to your friend's house and hung out with some people, and then went to Starbucks and hung out with them there. When you drove me home, we held hands and we pretty much decided to date. Then...about a week later, you called me up and said you didn't think it was right for us to be together...and we broke up. I was devastated. Yet, we remained friends.
We went on a trip to Disneyland with L.B. and C.M. and hung out with some fun people down there. It was one of the best trips I've been on. We went to Magic Mountain the first day, Disneyland the second, and the beach and thrift shopping the third. Our friends came back with us and we went to Yosemite the next day...and they went to San Francisco the day after. It was a fun trip...and I could tell that you still sort of had feelings for me. Two weeks later, we went to meet your best friend's girlfriend where she lived and had dinner together at the Red Robin there...and on the way home, you put your arm around me the whole way home. You insisted your friend drop us off at your house so you could take me home yourself...and you had your arm around me the entire way to my house. Then, when we were in front of my house, you kissed me, and I asked if that meant things were different. We began dating again and spent time together as much as we could. We were together for about a month...in which time I met most of your family and got invited to your brother's wedding...and then you broke up with me again. You were nervous, as you admitted later, because you knew I really loved you...and you weren't ready for that kind of relationship. So, we spent the rest of the summer apart. We were still friends (amazingly enough) and you told me about all the girls you were dating. It was hard for me to hear, and I would get pretty upset at times, but I was glad we were still talking. I was hoping that some part of you would change your mind and you'd want to be with me again. But, after awhile, I started liking someone else...and started pursuing a relationship with him. I thought things were going great with him...and then he told me he was dating someone else...and I was back to being single.
You told me a couple of different times during those four months that you wanted to get back together with me...but then you'd change your mind. You even told me once that your dad told you that you were stupid for breaking up with me, because he thought I was the girl you were supposed to marry...and you told me, "Well, if you like her so much, YOU marry her!" (Something I laugh about now) Yet, something must have changed in your heart at some point.
I remember being in Starbucks with L.B., doing our homework, and a friend you two went to high school with walked in. He was asking about you, so she decided to text you to see what you were doing. She invited you down to Starbucks and you came...and my heart skipped a beat. There was something different about you that day...something different about that interaction. But, you left...and she and I left...and my day went on. I got home and you were on AIM. You told me that you had feelings for me again and wanted to know if I still felt that way (which, of course, I did). You wanted to get together that evening, so you asked me to meet you at a park by your house. So, I met you there and we kissed on the bottom of one of the slides...and the rest is history.
We were engaged a little over a year later...married a little over a year after that...and are celebrating our third year of marriage in a little over a week.
We have had good times and bad...we've experienced births, deaths, and everything in between. Yet, our love has remained strong and God has been so faithful to us. I know He orchestrated our relationship...because He made everything work out perfectly. We both know if we would have stayed together from day 1, we probably wouldn't be married. We needed those months apart to know what we were missing.
You are my rock, my encourager...you lead me...and correct me when I'm wrong...and love me no matter what. You are amazing...and I'm beaming so much right now thinking about our love story. Even though it's a little muddy...I think it's the best love story we could ever have. These almost 6 years of being together have been such an amazing journey...and I can't wait to see where God is going to take us in the next six...and the six after that...and the hopefully many sixes after that...
I love you so much, dear Joshua, and I hope you know that.
Love for You: Day Twelve
Today's post is about a newer friend...and an older one.
E.H. - I remember seeing you play the piano for different community worship nights. Then the night that your then boyfriend brought you to Bible study...I was like, hey, it's that girl! I've always thought you had a beautiful, calm spirit. We didn't really start getting to know each other until you and your man started leading the college group with Josh and I. I love the things you say during our discussions...they always make me think a lot. I was so excited when you guys got engaged...as I got to hear about a lot of your plans. I'm so glad we've gotten closer in the past couple of months. Your heart for God and for other people is amazing. Your desire for us as women to draw closer to each other is the cry of my heart. Your love of jewelry making helped birthed a love in me. And, I love how cute you and your hubby are together. I'm so grateful to have you in my life and I hope we get closer as time goes on. I love you very much!!
C.E. - You and I go way back...I'm not even sure if we met at my old church first...or at dance first. But, we definitely got to be good friends when we were in high school. Your desire to follow Christ when you were in jr. high was such an inspiration to me...as I know it was to so many others. Your heart for the broken and hurting is so amazing. It's so fitting that you and your hubby are youth pastors now. You and I share a love for singing, a love for reading and writing, and a love for young people. I miss our coffee dates and wish we could have them more often. But, I am very thankful that our husbands get along and that we have been able to get together quite a few times as couples. I am excited to see how God is going to continue to use you and your hubby in your ministry. You are a beautiful blessing in my life and I am very thankful for you. I love you so very much!!
E.H. - I remember seeing you play the piano for different community worship nights. Then the night that your then boyfriend brought you to Bible study...I was like, hey, it's that girl! I've always thought you had a beautiful, calm spirit. We didn't really start getting to know each other until you and your man started leading the college group with Josh and I. I love the things you say during our discussions...they always make me think a lot. I was so excited when you guys got engaged...as I got to hear about a lot of your plans. I'm so glad we've gotten closer in the past couple of months. Your heart for God and for other people is amazing. Your desire for us as women to draw closer to each other is the cry of my heart. Your love of jewelry making helped birthed a love in me. And, I love how cute you and your hubby are together. I'm so grateful to have you in my life and I hope we get closer as time goes on. I love you very much!!
C.E. - You and I go way back...I'm not even sure if we met at my old church first...or at dance first. But, we definitely got to be good friends when we were in high school. Your desire to follow Christ when you were in jr. high was such an inspiration to me...as I know it was to so many others. Your heart for the broken and hurting is so amazing. It's so fitting that you and your hubby are youth pastors now. You and I share a love for singing, a love for reading and writing, and a love for young people. I miss our coffee dates and wish we could have them more often. But, I am very thankful that our husbands get along and that we have been able to get together quite a few times as couples. I am excited to see how God is going to continue to use you and your hubby in your ministry. You are a beautiful blessing in my life and I am very thankful for you. I love you so very much!!
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Things I'm Lovin'
Since Valentine's Day is around the corner, and I've been writing about all the people I love oh so much, I thought it would be good to write about some of the other things I've been lovin' lately.
1. Jewelry making. Not a big secret, right? I've blogged about it more than once. I need to take some more pictures and post them. But seriously...there is something so fulfilling to me about making jewelry. I get so excited when I step into Joann and see a strand of beads that just look like a friend...and I know she would love a necklace made out of them. It's pretty thrilling stuff. And, I love doing it with the college girls. We have some great conversations over those beads.
2. Coke. Ok, so I've always liked Coke...but lately I've just been wanting it more and more. Josh even told me when we were at the store last night that I just needed to buy a 2 liter so I'd stop going and getting one through a drive-thru...or having him get one for me. I am such a sucker for it. I would seriously rather have Coke than any other soda.
3. Sleeping in. Now that I am not working, I am back to my "ideal" sleep schedule...which probably sounds crazy to a lot of people. But, I would love to be up until 1am or 2am and get up at 10am every morning. My schedule has been more like 12:30, 1am to 9:30, 10am...which is still great with me. I seem to have more energy late at night...and I do some of my best thinking then, too (notice the time this was posted?).
4. Crazy Love. I am re-reading it with one of the girls in the college group...and I am getting so much good stuff out of it again. It's so crazy to really stop and think of how many times a day I am so selfish and don't even give God a second thought. And yet, He created all of the intricacies of this universe...and me...and He loves me so very much...even when I'm not thinking about Him. He deserves so much more from me.
5. Toffee Nut Lattes. I think they may be my new drink...at least when Pumpkin Spice Lattes are not available. I just recently discovered them...and fell in love. I actually like how they taste better as a Frappuccino, but it's still a little too cold for that just yet. And, I got $30 in Starbucks cards for my birthday, so I've been getting one about once a week.
6. Angry Birds. It's true...I'm addicted to that game. I have officially beaten all the levels that I can play...in both the original and the Seasons version. I am working now on getting three stars on everything so I can unlock all of the golden eggs (which I just found out yesterday each have their own bonus level). If you don't know what I'm talking about...and you have a phone that you can download it onto, you really should invest the money. It's so worth it...and kids like it, too.
7. Everybody Loves Raymond. I've been watching re-runs whenever I happen to be sitting in front of the TV and it's on. That show seriously cracks me up. Even when it's an episode I've seen more than once...I still laugh.
8. My new camera. I seriously love it. It's so convenient to take places. We will be taking it on a couple of different trips...and I can't wait to use it in those places! I may turn into the crazy tourist type...I'm just sayin'. And, please don't judge me if I do. I'm just enjoying my gift.
What are some of the things YOU are lovin' lately? You can say people if you want. I've just talked a lot about people, so I focused on other things for this post. But please, feel free to comment with things that you love.
1. Jewelry making. Not a big secret, right? I've blogged about it more than once. I need to take some more pictures and post them. But seriously...there is something so fulfilling to me about making jewelry. I get so excited when I step into Joann and see a strand of beads that just look like a friend...and I know she would love a necklace made out of them. It's pretty thrilling stuff. And, I love doing it with the college girls. We have some great conversations over those beads.
2. Coke. Ok, so I've always liked Coke...but lately I've just been wanting it more and more. Josh even told me when we were at the store last night that I just needed to buy a 2 liter so I'd stop going and getting one through a drive-thru...or having him get one for me. I am such a sucker for it. I would seriously rather have Coke than any other soda.
3. Sleeping in. Now that I am not working, I am back to my "ideal" sleep schedule...which probably sounds crazy to a lot of people. But, I would love to be up until 1am or 2am and get up at 10am every morning. My schedule has been more like 12:30, 1am to 9:30, 10am...which is still great with me. I seem to have more energy late at night...and I do some of my best thinking then, too (notice the time this was posted?).
4. Crazy Love. I am re-reading it with one of the girls in the college group...and I am getting so much good stuff out of it again. It's so crazy to really stop and think of how many times a day I am so selfish and don't even give God a second thought. And yet, He created all of the intricacies of this universe...and me...and He loves me so very much...even when I'm not thinking about Him. He deserves so much more from me.
5. Toffee Nut Lattes. I think they may be my new drink...at least when Pumpkin Spice Lattes are not available. I just recently discovered them...and fell in love. I actually like how they taste better as a Frappuccino, but it's still a little too cold for that just yet. And, I got $30 in Starbucks cards for my birthday, so I've been getting one about once a week.
6. Angry Birds. It's true...I'm addicted to that game. I have officially beaten all the levels that I can play...in both the original and the Seasons version. I am working now on getting three stars on everything so I can unlock all of the golden eggs (which I just found out yesterday each have their own bonus level). If you don't know what I'm talking about...and you have a phone that you can download it onto, you really should invest the money. It's so worth it...and kids like it, too.
7. Everybody Loves Raymond. I've been watching re-runs whenever I happen to be sitting in front of the TV and it's on. That show seriously cracks me up. Even when it's an episode I've seen more than once...I still laugh.
8. My new camera. I seriously love it. It's so convenient to take places. We will be taking it on a couple of different trips...and I can't wait to use it in those places! I may turn into the crazy tourist type...I'm just sayin'. And, please don't judge me if I do. I'm just enjoying my gift.
What are some of the things YOU are lovin' lately? You can say people if you want. I've just talked a lot about people, so I focused on other things for this post. But please, feel free to comment with things that you love.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Love for You: Day Eleven
Today's post is for two beautiful women in one of my Bible studies.
A.D. - I don't remember if we met at church or because of the YM group, but I love that you have such a passion for the women and the married couples in our church. Your desire to take women to WOF and create women's only worship nights is so refreshing and so needed. I was always a little uncomfortable being around the women in the YM group, because I was one of the only ones who didn't have kids, until you shared with me part of your struggles. I am so thankful God put you in my life. Your experiences with some of the things I'm dealing with have been so instrumental in my life. Thank you for being open and honest, and for caring about me. I am very thankful to have you in my life and I love you very much!!
S.F. - You and I met when I started helping out with youth. I remember driving to your house when we were doing the can drive so we could pick up extra cans. We also did a skit together in that year's Dinner Theatre. But we didn't really start hanging out until about a year ago. I'm so thankful that you are so honest and blunt and tell things like they are. You have been such an encouragement to me, and I so love our coffee dates. I am grateful that you've entrusted me with things, and I'm glad we can be there for each other. You are a huge blessing in my life and I love you very much!!
A.D. - I don't remember if we met at church or because of the YM group, but I love that you have such a passion for the women and the married couples in our church. Your desire to take women to WOF and create women's only worship nights is so refreshing and so needed. I was always a little uncomfortable being around the women in the YM group, because I was one of the only ones who didn't have kids, until you shared with me part of your struggles. I am so thankful God put you in my life. Your experiences with some of the things I'm dealing with have been so instrumental in my life. Thank you for being open and honest, and for caring about me. I am very thankful to have you in my life and I love you very much!!
S.F. - You and I met when I started helping out with youth. I remember driving to your house when we were doing the can drive so we could pick up extra cans. We also did a skit together in that year's Dinner Theatre. But we didn't really start hanging out until about a year ago. I'm so thankful that you are so honest and blunt and tell things like they are. You have been such an encouragement to me, and I so love our coffee dates. I am grateful that you've entrusted me with things, and I'm glad we can be there for each other. You are a huge blessing in my life and I love you very much!!
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Love for You: Day Ten
Today's post is about two wonderful ladies.
S.S. - You and I met a little over 5 years ago, as we both had started working with the youth at church around that time. You had such a love for my then boyfriend, as you had known him for years, and watched him grow up. I love how you loved the girls in your small group. You were an amazing leader. We got to know each other really well and started spending time together outside of church stuff. Even when we both stopped volunteering, we were still able to remain friends. I was so glad I was able to go to WOF with you this past year, and I love our lunch dates (and, of course, my massage appointments). I love that we can both be so honest with each other. You are an amazing wife and mother, an amazing woman of God, and a huge blessing in my life. I love you so very much!!
L.Z. - You and I have only been friends for less than a year, but you are already such a huge blessing in my life. I love that we share a love for singing. I love how much I have seen you grow and be moved in different ways this year. I love your heart for God and for leading people before His throne. You are a wonderful example in my life. I love how much you care for and love your girls and your hubby. You sacrifice so much for them, and I know they appreciate it so much. I am so thankful for the encouragement I have received from you, and I am excited to see how God is going to continue to use us in each other's lives. I love you very very much!!
S.S. - You and I met a little over 5 years ago, as we both had started working with the youth at church around that time. You had such a love for my then boyfriend, as you had known him for years, and watched him grow up. I love how you loved the girls in your small group. You were an amazing leader. We got to know each other really well and started spending time together outside of church stuff. Even when we both stopped volunteering, we were still able to remain friends. I was so glad I was able to go to WOF with you this past year, and I love our lunch dates (and, of course, my massage appointments). I love that we can both be so honest with each other. You are an amazing wife and mother, an amazing woman of God, and a huge blessing in my life. I love you so very much!!
L.Z. - You and I have only been friends for less than a year, but you are already such a huge blessing in my life. I love that we share a love for singing. I love how much I have seen you grow and be moved in different ways this year. I love your heart for God and for leading people before His throne. You are a wonderful example in my life. I love how much you care for and love your girls and your hubby. You sacrifice so much for them, and I know they appreciate it so much. I am so thankful for the encouragement I have received from you, and I am excited to see how God is going to continue to use us in each other's lives. I love you very very much!!
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Love for You: Day Nine
Today's post is for two wonderful women in my life.
C.M. - You and I met through L.B. about 7 years ago. You were returning from a missions trip overseas. I admired you so much for your desire to reach people in other countries with God's love. I remember that you came and spoke at my church's youth group about your experiences. You were not home for long, as you were off again for another trip. You returned in just enough time to be at my wedding, which I was so thankful for. I love your spunky personality, your creativity, and your love for others. I love that you are pursuing your dreams right now...and that they are coming true! I love that you met your hubby online...as if there were any other way for someone so technologically savvy. I was so honored to be in your wedding, and I'm so thankful for our lunch dates. You are a beautiful blessing in my life and I love you very much!!
K.T. - I remember meeting you when you started working at the church. I noticed right away what a huge heart you had. It was obvious that you had a deep love for other people. You have always been a huge encourager in my life...and I know when you say you are going to pray for me, you definitely do. I love that your role at church changed into something that fits your personality so well. It seems like you truly love every aspect of your job. I know everyone gets stressed sometimes, but you still work your heart out for the Lord...and I love that. Thank you for being a wonderful listening ear, and an amazing pillar of strength. You are a wonderful momma to your kids, and it's obvious they adore you. I admire your courage and your stamina so much. You have overcome some very hard trials, but through it all you continue to lean on God. I admire you so much for the person you are and I aspire to be more like you. I love you so very much!!
C.M. - You and I met through L.B. about 7 years ago. You were returning from a missions trip overseas. I admired you so much for your desire to reach people in other countries with God's love. I remember that you came and spoke at my church's youth group about your experiences. You were not home for long, as you were off again for another trip. You returned in just enough time to be at my wedding, which I was so thankful for. I love your spunky personality, your creativity, and your love for others. I love that you are pursuing your dreams right now...and that they are coming true! I love that you met your hubby online...as if there were any other way for someone so technologically savvy. I was so honored to be in your wedding, and I'm so thankful for our lunch dates. You are a beautiful blessing in my life and I love you very much!!
K.T. - I remember meeting you when you started working at the church. I noticed right away what a huge heart you had. It was obvious that you had a deep love for other people. You have always been a huge encourager in my life...and I know when you say you are going to pray for me, you definitely do. I love that your role at church changed into something that fits your personality so well. It seems like you truly love every aspect of your job. I know everyone gets stressed sometimes, but you still work your heart out for the Lord...and I love that. Thank you for being a wonderful listening ear, and an amazing pillar of strength. You are a wonderful momma to your kids, and it's obvious they adore you. I admire your courage and your stamina so much. You have overcome some very hard trials, but through it all you continue to lean on God. I admire you so much for the person you are and I aspire to be more like you. I love you so very much!!
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Love for You: Day Eight
Today's post is all about two very influential women in my life.
A.G. - I barely even knew you when you invited me to the Bible study at your house. I was excited about being a part of a young women's Bible study, but definitely a little nervous. As soon as I stepped into your house, I instantly felt at ease. You are so warm and loving, and created a wonderful environment for all of us women to just be honest and open with each other. You are the reason for many of the wonderful friends I have now...and I am so thankful to be able to call you a friend as well. You have been such a huge part of my life these past three and a half years. We have walked through some very hard things together, and have been able to encourage and lift each other up. I love that we watched the last two seasons of LOST together with our husbands...and have kept the tradition alive with other shows. I love our coffee dates, our Jamba Juice runs, our days of doing errands, and our days of hanging out at home with your kids. You are such a huge blessing in my life and I thank God so much for you. You are such a beautiful and amazing woman of God, wife, and mother...and I hope to be more like you. I love you very much!!
K.G. - I have known you for about four years now, but we've really only gotten close in the last year or so. I knew the first time I went to WOF that God was leading me to meet with you on a regular basis, and I was so happy that you were willing to. We had some really great conversations on those Tuesday nights at Starbucks. I was so excited when God put on both of our hearts to start a women's Bible study in the summer...and it was such an amazing study. I'm so thankful for your heart, for the amazing example you are, and for your honesty. I am so excited to see how God is going to continue to grow our friendship and bring us many more opportunities to serve Him and the women in our church. You are such a beautiful blessing in my life. I love you so very much!!
A.G. - I barely even knew you when you invited me to the Bible study at your house. I was excited about being a part of a young women's Bible study, but definitely a little nervous. As soon as I stepped into your house, I instantly felt at ease. You are so warm and loving, and created a wonderful environment for all of us women to just be honest and open with each other. You are the reason for many of the wonderful friends I have now...and I am so thankful to be able to call you a friend as well. You have been such a huge part of my life these past three and a half years. We have walked through some very hard things together, and have been able to encourage and lift each other up. I love that we watched the last two seasons of LOST together with our husbands...and have kept the tradition alive with other shows. I love our coffee dates, our Jamba Juice runs, our days of doing errands, and our days of hanging out at home with your kids. You are such a huge blessing in my life and I thank God so much for you. You are such a beautiful and amazing woman of God, wife, and mother...and I hope to be more like you. I love you very much!!
K.G. - I have known you for about four years now, but we've really only gotten close in the last year or so. I knew the first time I went to WOF that God was leading me to meet with you on a regular basis, and I was so happy that you were willing to. We had some really great conversations on those Tuesday nights at Starbucks. I was so excited when God put on both of our hearts to start a women's Bible study in the summer...and it was such an amazing study. I'm so thankful for your heart, for the amazing example you are, and for your honesty. I am so excited to see how God is going to continue to grow our friendship and bring us many more opportunities to serve Him and the women in our church. You are such a beautiful blessing in my life. I love you so very much!!
Monday, February 7, 2011
Honesty is the Best Policy
I came across this blog today.
And, it really got me thinking about something I've been talking to a lot of women about lately. Why is it that we try so hard to put on these perfect faces and pretend like everything is ok with us? Why are we so nervous about being real and vulnerable, because someone may not like what we have to say? Why are we so focused on keeping our pains and hurts and pasts a secret, instead of sharing them with others who may be dealing with the same things?
I am so guilty of this. Even with this blog. I share some personal things about myself...but there are many things I keep a secret. Why? Because I don't want someone to think less of me, or think I'm crazy, or give me crap about it later. Is that any way to live our lives? How are we ever going to reach out to people, and be truly effective in doing so, if we give off the impression that we have everything together 24/7?
I was so nervous about this blog post. Why? Because I was afraid of what people would think of me. I truly didn't want to offend anyone, so I think that was a valid reason for being nervous about it...but I was also worried that some people in my life may not agree with me, and think badly of me because of it. It's so silly! Why do we care so much about what people think of us, that we're afraid to be honest?
It's time to start being ourselves. It's time to start living our lives, exposing the not-so-pretty things, in order to encourage others to do the same. We are all imperfect, we all have flaws, pasts, hurts, struggles, and bad days. We all need the encouragement of other people in our lives...and we all need to be pointed back towards God on a daily basis. If we're always telling people we are "fine", no one is going to feel the need to encourage us. It's time to start being real!
And, it really got me thinking about something I've been talking to a lot of women about lately. Why is it that we try so hard to put on these perfect faces and pretend like everything is ok with us? Why are we so nervous about being real and vulnerable, because someone may not like what we have to say? Why are we so focused on keeping our pains and hurts and pasts a secret, instead of sharing them with others who may be dealing with the same things?
I am so guilty of this. Even with this blog. I share some personal things about myself...but there are many things I keep a secret. Why? Because I don't want someone to think less of me, or think I'm crazy, or give me crap about it later. Is that any way to live our lives? How are we ever going to reach out to people, and be truly effective in doing so, if we give off the impression that we have everything together 24/7?
I was so nervous about this blog post. Why? Because I was afraid of what people would think of me. I truly didn't want to offend anyone, so I think that was a valid reason for being nervous about it...but I was also worried that some people in my life may not agree with me, and think badly of me because of it. It's so silly! Why do we care so much about what people think of us, that we're afraid to be honest?
It's time to start being ourselves. It's time to start living our lives, exposing the not-so-pretty things, in order to encourage others to do the same. We are all imperfect, we all have flaws, pasts, hurts, struggles, and bad days. We all need the encouragement of other people in our lives...and we all need to be pointed back towards God on a daily basis. If we're always telling people we are "fine", no one is going to feel the need to encourage us. It's time to start being real!
Love for You: Day Seven
Today's post is for two wonderful friends of mine.
J.B. - I am so thankful you and I became friends. I know we knew each other for quite a few years, but it's only been in the last year and a half or so that we've really gotten to know each other. You have such a beautiful heart. Your love for God is so evident in all you do. I love your passion for animals and photography. You are such an encouragement in my life and I'm so thankful I can call you my sister. We have had so many fun times together. From BUNCO nights, to getting our makeup and toes done, to eating out and laughing a lot. Thank you for being you! I love you very much!!
B.H. - I remember meeting you at A.G.'s house about two years ago. Your honesty and vulnerability blew me away. You have amazing strength and courage. Your heart breaks for those who are hurting and rejoices for those who are doing great. You are a beautiful blessing. I love the joy you get from teaching little kids. Your face lights up every time you talk about them. You love your family so much, and would do anything for them. You are such an inspiration. I feel so privileged to be your friend. I love you so very much!!
J.B. - I am so thankful you and I became friends. I know we knew each other for quite a few years, but it's only been in the last year and a half or so that we've really gotten to know each other. You have such a beautiful heart. Your love for God is so evident in all you do. I love your passion for animals and photography. You are such an encouragement in my life and I'm so thankful I can call you my sister. We have had so many fun times together. From BUNCO nights, to getting our makeup and toes done, to eating out and laughing a lot. Thank you for being you! I love you very much!!
B.H. - I remember meeting you at A.G.'s house about two years ago. Your honesty and vulnerability blew me away. You have amazing strength and courage. Your heart breaks for those who are hurting and rejoices for those who are doing great. You are a beautiful blessing. I love the joy you get from teaching little kids. Your face lights up every time you talk about them. You love your family so much, and would do anything for them. You are such an inspiration. I feel so privileged to be your friend. I love you so very much!!
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Love for You: Day Six
Today is all about my beautiful friend in CO.
E.O. - You and I haven't been friends that long...but it seems like we've known each other all our lives. The very first time we met for coffee, I told you something I had only shared with about a handful of people prior to that. I felt so comfortable with you. Every time I was around you or we were able to hang out, I loved watching the way you interacted with people. You have such a beautiful personality. Your love for others just shines through you. I was so sad to learn that you guys were moving back to CO...but so happy at the same time. I knew your heart belonged there, with your family and friends, and that this was just a tiny piece in your journey...but I was a little bummed we wouldn't get to hang out as much. I love that we have been able to stay in touch...and that we were able to come see you guys! You have been such a huge encouragement in my life. I love that I am able to be honest with you, and know there is no judgment. You are such a wonderful mommy to your little beauty...and I know you will be a wonderful mommy to all the other babies you will have. Your life's story is inspiring, as is your relationship with your husband. You are such a sweet friend and I feel so blessed to have you in my life. I love you oh so very much!!
E.O. - You and I haven't been friends that long...but it seems like we've known each other all our lives. The very first time we met for coffee, I told you something I had only shared with about a handful of people prior to that. I felt so comfortable with you. Every time I was around you or we were able to hang out, I loved watching the way you interacted with people. You have such a beautiful personality. Your love for others just shines through you. I was so sad to learn that you guys were moving back to CO...but so happy at the same time. I knew your heart belonged there, with your family and friends, and that this was just a tiny piece in your journey...but I was a little bummed we wouldn't get to hang out as much. I love that we have been able to stay in touch...and that we were able to come see you guys! You have been such a huge encouragement in my life. I love that I am able to be honest with you, and know there is no judgment. You are such a wonderful mommy to your little beauty...and I know you will be a wonderful mommy to all the other babies you will have. Your life's story is inspiring, as is your relationship with your husband. You are such a sweet friend and I feel so blessed to have you in my life. I love you oh so very much!!
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Love for You: Day Five
Today's post is all about two wonderful M ladies :)
M.P. - We met at A.G.'s house a little over 3 years ago. You brought your beautiful babies with you...who were truly babies back then. I honestly didn't think we would ever be friends. But one day...all that changed. I was so happy that I was able to invite you to my wedding. I'm glad we were able to get to know one another better as time went on. And then, we started hanging out. And, you became the bestie...and one of my greatest friends. We always have so much fun together...and we sure laugh a lot. I remember all those nights I'd come over and hang out at your old apartment...sometimes with M.D., sometimes not. But, it was awesome. I am so proud of the person you have become in the past three years. I have watched your heart develop and grow in beautiful ways. You are such an amazing blessing in my life...as are your kids. Thank you for being you...I love you so much, bestie!!
M.D. - We also met at A.G.'s house a little over 3 years ago...on that very same day. I didn't really think we would ever be friends either. But, God definitely had other plans. I loved the passion you rediscovered for Him and His ways...and man, the things you would say during discussions...they blew my mind. You have such amazing wisdom and I feel so blessed to be able to hear it. You and I didn't really start getting close until after you left for school...but oh did I cherish those weekends you were here, and we could hang out. Even the weekend M.P. and I came to see you for your birthday. Good, good times. Our love for BE, sushi, and laughing make my heart happy. You are such a beautiful blessing in my life and I'm so thankful that God used A.G. to bring about amazing change in all of our lives. I love you very, very much!!
You two mean so much to me!!
M.P. - We met at A.G.'s house a little over 3 years ago. You brought your beautiful babies with you...who were truly babies back then. I honestly didn't think we would ever be friends. But one day...all that changed. I was so happy that I was able to invite you to my wedding. I'm glad we were able to get to know one another better as time went on. And then, we started hanging out. And, you became the bestie...and one of my greatest friends. We always have so much fun together...and we sure laugh a lot. I remember all those nights I'd come over and hang out at your old apartment...sometimes with M.D., sometimes not. But, it was awesome. I am so proud of the person you have become in the past three years. I have watched your heart develop and grow in beautiful ways. You are such an amazing blessing in my life...as are your kids. Thank you for being you...I love you so much, bestie!!
M.D. - We also met at A.G.'s house a little over 3 years ago...on that very same day. I didn't really think we would ever be friends either. But, God definitely had other plans. I loved the passion you rediscovered for Him and His ways...and man, the things you would say during discussions...they blew my mind. You have such amazing wisdom and I feel so blessed to be able to hear it. You and I didn't really start getting close until after you left for school...but oh did I cherish those weekends you were here, and we could hang out. Even the weekend M.P. and I came to see you for your birthday. Good, good times. Our love for BE, sushi, and laughing make my heart happy. You are such a beautiful blessing in my life and I'm so thankful that God used A.G. to bring about amazing change in all of our lives. I love you very, very much!!
You two mean so much to me!!
Friday, February 4, 2011
Love for You: Day Four
Today is all about my friend I met when I worked at Hallmark.
L.B. - You and I were locker buddies at Hallmark. I remember showing up for my first day at work and having a sweet note from you, welcoming me to Hallmark. I was so excited to meet you! You invited me to your graduation party and started coming to my church's youth group with a mutual friend. You and I started hanging out almost immediately and had a blast on our trips to the mall and Starbucks. We've been to Disneyland three times together; once with a group of friends, once with our sisters, and once with our husbands. I loved staying at your house when your parents were gone for the weekend, and all the chips and queso we'd consume. You and I have been through a lot together, and we are still friends 8 years later. I love the joy I see in your eyes when you're talking about your hubby or your daughter. You are beautiful inside and out and I love you so much!
L.B. - You and I were locker buddies at Hallmark. I remember showing up for my first day at work and having a sweet note from you, welcoming me to Hallmark. I was so excited to meet you! You invited me to your graduation party and started coming to my church's youth group with a mutual friend. You and I started hanging out almost immediately and had a blast on our trips to the mall and Starbucks. We've been to Disneyland three times together; once with a group of friends, once with our sisters, and once with our husbands. I loved staying at your house when your parents were gone for the weekend, and all the chips and queso we'd consume. You and I have been through a lot together, and we are still friends 8 years later. I love the joy I see in your eyes when you're talking about your hubby or your daughter. You are beautiful inside and out and I love you so much!
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Love for You: Day Three
Today is all about the friend I've had for 11 years.
E.K. - I love that we have been friends so long. We were there for each other for all of high school, college, and our weddings...and beyond. We've seen the best and worst of each other...and yet, we're still able to love each other. I love that you have always been honest with me, even when it was hard to tell me I was making mistakes or not being the greatest friend. I love that our husbands love each other and get along so well (manpanions!). I love that we had tons of sleepovers, gab fests, and fun outings in high school (by the way, I still have my man in a box). I love that we had a secret code for e-mails and handwritten notes, just in case the "wrong" person saw them. I love that God brought us together in such a random way...and that the first time we ever hung out outside of church was on Valentine's Day, 11 years ago. I have so many wonderful memories from all the times we've spent together...and I am looking forward to all the wonderful memories we will have in the future. Thanks for being such a great best friend! I love you oh so much!!
E.K. - I love that we have been friends so long. We were there for each other for all of high school, college, and our weddings...and beyond. We've seen the best and worst of each other...and yet, we're still able to love each other. I love that you have always been honest with me, even when it was hard to tell me I was making mistakes or not being the greatest friend. I love that our husbands love each other and get along so well (manpanions!). I love that we had tons of sleepovers, gab fests, and fun outings in high school (by the way, I still have my man in a box). I love that we had a secret code for e-mails and handwritten notes, just in case the "wrong" person saw them. I love that God brought us together in such a random way...and that the first time we ever hung out outside of church was on Valentine's Day, 11 years ago. I have so many wonderful memories from all the times we've spent together...and I am looking forward to all the wonderful memories we will have in the future. Thanks for being such a great best friend! I love you oh so much!!
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Itchin' to Create
I haven't made a piece of jewelry in over a week...
...and I'm really itchin' to do so.
I spent some time on etsy this evening, looking through some of my favorite shops, to see what other jewelry makers are creating and selling. I got some good ideas for some necklace designs I really want to try. Like this one, this one, and something like this. I also like how this one has so many different elements. I don't think I would make one exactly like that, but I love that there's different chain and stuff hanging off...it just inspires me to think so much more out of the box with my jewelry.
And completely unrelated to jewelry, I love this purse.
What things inspire you to get your creative juices flowing?
(I think I finally fixed the comments. You should be able to leave them now...and there's even a pop out box! Please let me know if you are still having issues)
...and I'm really itchin' to do so.
I spent some time on etsy this evening, looking through some of my favorite shops, to see what other jewelry makers are creating and selling. I got some good ideas for some necklace designs I really want to try. Like this one, this one, and something like this. I also like how this one has so many different elements. I don't think I would make one exactly like that, but I love that there's different chain and stuff hanging off...it just inspires me to think so much more out of the box with my jewelry.
And completely unrelated to jewelry, I love this purse.
What things inspire you to get your creative juices flowing?
(I think I finally fixed the comments. You should be able to leave them now...and there's even a pop out box! Please let me know if you are still having issues)
Love for You: Day Two
Today's post is all about those who are a part of my family by marriage.
B & A - I love the way you guys immediately accepted me into your family. I love that I was able to spend many holidays and family get-togethers with you guys before Josh and I got married. I love that you guys care so much about your family. I love that I was able to be a part of your precious daughter's life from the very beginning. You guys are amazing and I love you very much!!
A & E - You two weren't even married when Josh and I first started dating...though you got married that summer. You even invited me to your wedding, barely even knowing me (even though I didn't go because Josh broke up with me). I love how much fun you guys have with each other and with those in your lives. You both are very carefree and love to laugh...and I love that. Thank you for welcoming me into your family and for helping Josh and I in so many different ways over these years. I love you two crazy kids tons!!
J & K - You two started dating soon after Josh and I got married. I love how creative you guys have always been. You always come up with fun things to do together and with your friends...and creative ways to give gifts as well. I'm looking forward to how God is going to continue to use the both of you...and how He is going to work in you as a couple. Mucho love from me to you!!
A. J. - You married my sister...and for that alone, I love you very much. You and Josh have such a great relationship, and I love that we can all hang out and have fun together. You are such a hard worker and have done whatever it took to provide for my sister. You are a goofball and a joker...which added a much-needed element to my little family. I love watching you, Josh, and my dad laugh together. It's so very healing to see. Thank you for loving my sister, for loving my family, and for being you. I love you tons!!
J. B. - You brought my husband into this world over 26 years ago...and I am so very thankful you did. You are such an awesome woman...to be able to raise four boys that love the Lord and love their family so very much. Your influence in their lives over the years has shaped them into the amazing husbands that they are. Thank you for welcoming me into your family and making me feel comfortable in your home. Thank you for setting an awesome example of faith and love for all of us girls to strive for. I love you very much!!
T. B. - You raised four amazing boys...teaching them how to be men, how to love and take care of their wives, and how to be fathers. I love that the boys still love you in some of the same ways they did when they were younger (climbing on your back). Their admiration for you is so evident in all they say and do. Thank you for making me feel like I have a place in your family. Thank you for fulfilling God's call on your life to raise your family in His ways. I love you very much!!
A.B. - Oh, precious little niece of mine. You have been such a huge blessing in our family. You bring so much joy and happiness to all of our lives. There has never been a time that I've been around you that I haven't smiled and laughed a ton. You are goofy, spunky, stubborn, independent, sweet, and loving. I remember the very first time I held your tiny body in my arms...and fell in love with you. You are such a sweetheart and I can't wait to see what God is going to do in your life as you grow up...just don't grow up too fast.
B & A - I love the way you guys immediately accepted me into your family. I love that I was able to spend many holidays and family get-togethers with you guys before Josh and I got married. I love that you guys care so much about your family. I love that I was able to be a part of your precious daughter's life from the very beginning. You guys are amazing and I love you very much!!
A & E - You two weren't even married when Josh and I first started dating...though you got married that summer. You even invited me to your wedding, barely even knowing me (even though I didn't go because Josh broke up with me). I love how much fun you guys have with each other and with those in your lives. You both are very carefree and love to laugh...and I love that. Thank you for welcoming me into your family and for helping Josh and I in so many different ways over these years. I love you two crazy kids tons!!
J & K - You two started dating soon after Josh and I got married. I love how creative you guys have always been. You always come up with fun things to do together and with your friends...and creative ways to give gifts as well. I'm looking forward to how God is going to continue to use the both of you...and how He is going to work in you as a couple. Mucho love from me to you!!
A. J. - You married my sister...and for that alone, I love you very much. You and Josh have such a great relationship, and I love that we can all hang out and have fun together. You are such a hard worker and have done whatever it took to provide for my sister. You are a goofball and a joker...which added a much-needed element to my little family. I love watching you, Josh, and my dad laugh together. It's so very healing to see. Thank you for loving my sister, for loving my family, and for being you. I love you tons!!
J. B. - You brought my husband into this world over 26 years ago...and I am so very thankful you did. You are such an awesome woman...to be able to raise four boys that love the Lord and love their family so very much. Your influence in their lives over the years has shaped them into the amazing husbands that they are. Thank you for welcoming me into your family and making me feel comfortable in your home. Thank you for setting an awesome example of faith and love for all of us girls to strive for. I love you very much!!
T. B. - You raised four amazing boys...teaching them how to be men, how to love and take care of their wives, and how to be fathers. I love that the boys still love you in some of the same ways they did when they were younger (climbing on your back). Their admiration for you is so evident in all they say and do. Thank you for making me feel like I have a place in your family. Thank you for fulfilling God's call on your life to raise your family in His ways. I love you very much!!
A.B. - Oh, precious little niece of mine. You have been such a huge blessing in our family. You bring so much joy and happiness to all of our lives. There has never been a time that I've been around you that I haven't smiled and laughed a ton. You are goofy, spunky, stubborn, independent, sweet, and loving. I remember the very first time I held your tiny body in my arms...and fell in love with you. You are such a sweetheart and I can't wait to see what God is going to do in your life as you grow up...just don't grow up too fast.
Love for You: Day One
Day One is all about my beautiful family.
Mom: I am so in awe of how you sought God in such amazing ways when I was just a dream...and how you continued to seek Him as I was growing up. You set a precedence for Sister and I that is just phenomenal. You were always quick to listen and slow to become angry. You always gave me the benefit of the doubt, even if you thought I was making a dumb choice. You'd listen and then gently guide me down the right path again. Your love has always amazed me. You have put up with so much from us girls, and yet, you've never once stopped loving us. I hated knowing I'd disappointed you...because I never wanted you to be disappointed in me. Thank you for loving me gently, for being patient with me, and for setting a beautiful example of how a mother should be. I love you so very much more than words can say.
Dad: Being a married woman and being out of the house has helped me to see more clearly how much you have always loved me. Even when I thought you were being unfair, you were only looking out for me and trying to keep me from getting hurt...because you loved me that much. I know you would have...and still would...do anything to protect me from harm. You helped birth in me a love for all things musical and creative and artistic. You encourage me to use my gifts and develop my talents more fully. You desire for me to live my life solely for God...and made sure I was always in the right environment to do so. You may have been stern with me at times...but all those lessons shaped me into who I am today. Without your love and support, I would be a shell of the person I am today. God put me in your care for a reason; because He knew you would bring me up in the right ways. I love you so very much and I love that you constantly remind me how much you love me.
Sister: You were my first best friend. I can tell by our baby pictures that I loved you very much...even if I did try to smother you at times (hey, 14 month olds don't really know how to handle babies). I love that we have a good relationship. I love that we hardly ever fought when we were growing up...and still hardly ever do...yet, we can still be honest with each other about our feelings. I love that we live in the same town and go shopping together...or get frozen yogurt...or have dinner and play silly games with our husbands together. I love the fact that I can be real and honest with you...and know that you won't judge me. You and I don't always agree on things...and that is ok...because it doesn't change the bond we have with one another. You are the greatest sister I could have ever hoped for, and I feel so lucky to have you in my life. I love you so very much and am so glad you have a wonderful husband who loves you to pieces.
(Note: I know my family is not fond of having their info out in cyberspace, so that is why I did not use names. I will be using initials for most everyone else from here on out...just in case you feel the same way)
Mom: I am so in awe of how you sought God in such amazing ways when I was just a dream...and how you continued to seek Him as I was growing up. You set a precedence for Sister and I that is just phenomenal. You were always quick to listen and slow to become angry. You always gave me the benefit of the doubt, even if you thought I was making a dumb choice. You'd listen and then gently guide me down the right path again. Your love has always amazed me. You have put up with so much from us girls, and yet, you've never once stopped loving us. I hated knowing I'd disappointed you...because I never wanted you to be disappointed in me. Thank you for loving me gently, for being patient with me, and for setting a beautiful example of how a mother should be. I love you so very much more than words can say.
Dad: Being a married woman and being out of the house has helped me to see more clearly how much you have always loved me. Even when I thought you were being unfair, you were only looking out for me and trying to keep me from getting hurt...because you loved me that much. I know you would have...and still would...do anything to protect me from harm. You helped birth in me a love for all things musical and creative and artistic. You encourage me to use my gifts and develop my talents more fully. You desire for me to live my life solely for God...and made sure I was always in the right environment to do so. You may have been stern with me at times...but all those lessons shaped me into who I am today. Without your love and support, I would be a shell of the person I am today. God put me in your care for a reason; because He knew you would bring me up in the right ways. I love you so very much and I love that you constantly remind me how much you love me.
Sister: You were my first best friend. I can tell by our baby pictures that I loved you very much...even if I did try to smother you at times (hey, 14 month olds don't really know how to handle babies). I love that we have a good relationship. I love that we hardly ever fought when we were growing up...and still hardly ever do...yet, we can still be honest with each other about our feelings. I love that we live in the same town and go shopping together...or get frozen yogurt...or have dinner and play silly games with our husbands together. I love the fact that I can be real and honest with you...and know that you won't judge me. You and I don't always agree on things...and that is ok...because it doesn't change the bond we have with one another. You are the greatest sister I could have ever hoped for, and I feel so lucky to have you in my life. I love you so very much and am so glad you have a wonderful husband who loves you to pieces.
(Note: I know my family is not fond of having their info out in cyberspace, so that is why I did not use names. I will be using initials for most everyone else from here on out...just in case you feel the same way)
Love (Luv) is a Verb
I love me some dcTalk.
I truly do. dcTalk is and always will be one of my favorites. From the old school 80's rap days, to the more alternative sound in the 90's...I just love 'em.
But, they're not the reason I'm writing this post.
One of the blogs I've been following, cake and cotton, posted this earlier today. I've also seen lots of different posts about Valentine's Day that have inspired me to view it a little differently this year. One of those posts was this one from Leslie @ top of the page, who is one of the two women that writes on cake and cotton as well.
I have never been a big fan of Valentine's Day. I've always thought it was a lame holiday that men used to "make up" to their significant other for all the times they'd forgotten about them that year. I think part of me was just jealous the years I didn't have a "Valentine"...and the other part of me was even more turned off by it from working at Hallmark...and seeing all those men show up the day before/day of to buy a card or gift for their girl. I always would say, "If someone really means that much to you, you should celebrate and cherish them all the time, not just one day a year". Yet, I think my opinion is a little different this year...
Days are what we make them. This includes holidays, too. We can make Christmas a big deal or treat it like any other day. We can cook a big Thanksgiving dinner for family or sit at home watching a bunch of TV. We can choose to celebrate/not celebrate each "holiday" the way we want. And this year, I'm choosing to celebrate Valentine's Day differently than I ever have before.
Even though it is already past midnight and technically the 2nd, I am going to blog for 14 days about some of the people I love the most in this world. I am going to do my best to fit in as many people as I can...but I am only human and know I will probably forget one or two. But, I think it's important to take some time out of my life and truly reflect on the reasons why I love the people in my life. I don't do it often enough...and I know a simple post isn't going to do anyone justice...but it will definitely be a start.
How are you going to show love to those around you this month? It doesn't have to be about Valentine's Day...but it's definitely a good time of the year to show them how much you truly appreciate them.
I truly do. dcTalk is and always will be one of my favorites. From the old school 80's rap days, to the more alternative sound in the 90's...I just love 'em.
But, they're not the reason I'm writing this post.
One of the blogs I've been following, cake and cotton, posted this earlier today. I've also seen lots of different posts about Valentine's Day that have inspired me to view it a little differently this year. One of those posts was this one from Leslie @ top of the page, who is one of the two women that writes on cake and cotton as well.
I have never been a big fan of Valentine's Day. I've always thought it was a lame holiday that men used to "make up" to their significant other for all the times they'd forgotten about them that year. I think part of me was just jealous the years I didn't have a "Valentine"...and the other part of me was even more turned off by it from working at Hallmark...and seeing all those men show up the day before/day of to buy a card or gift for their girl. I always would say, "If someone really means that much to you, you should celebrate and cherish them all the time, not just one day a year". Yet, I think my opinion is a little different this year...
Days are what we make them. This includes holidays, too. We can make Christmas a big deal or treat it like any other day. We can cook a big Thanksgiving dinner for family or sit at home watching a bunch of TV. We can choose to celebrate/not celebrate each "holiday" the way we want. And this year, I'm choosing to celebrate Valentine's Day differently than I ever have before.
Even though it is already past midnight and technically the 2nd, I am going to blog for 14 days about some of the people I love the most in this world. I am going to do my best to fit in as many people as I can...but I am only human and know I will probably forget one or two. But, I think it's important to take some time out of my life and truly reflect on the reasons why I love the people in my life. I don't do it often enough...and I know a simple post isn't going to do anyone justice...but it will definitely be a start.
How are you going to show love to those around you this month? It doesn't have to be about Valentine's Day...but it's definitely a good time of the year to show them how much you truly appreciate them.
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