How time flies!

Well, folks, another Christmas has passed and we are fast approaching the end of another year. What happens to time? I can remember when I was a kid and the school year seemed to last for years and Christmas took forever to get here! Now it seems January hardly passes before it's July 4th and then you blink and Christmas has arrived. Sometimes I don't like getting older.

In spite of the speed at which the holidays have passed, I must say I'm glad it's over. This past week has been hard. I think I spent too much time alone. At times, I didn't even like myself, but that, too, is passing. :)

On a lighter note, there were several things I did during the holidays that were some of my own favorite traditions: decorating the tree, watching my favorite holiday movies - "It's a Wonderful Life", "Holiday Inn", "White Christmas", and baking pecan pies. I didn't get to watch Charles Dickens', "A Christmas Carol". My favorite version of that movie is the one with Patrick Stewart as Ebenezer Scrooge. George C. Scott is my other favorite "Scrooge". I did, however, see it live at the local theater. That was cool.

Should God allow it, I can't wait for the day when I have a family and we establish our own holiday traditions. To me, the family traditions are the best part of the holidays.

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday and enjoyed yourselves immensely! Most importantly, I hope you were able to think about the One who is the Reason for the season.

I'm back in business!

I got my laptop back!!!!! Woohoo!!!! I am so excited to have it back.

The speed at which Apple repaired my laptop has restored my faith in this company! I shipped it out on Thursday of last week and got it back on Tuesday. They totally replaced all of the outer casing - so my laptop looks like new! Except that my battery is a slightly different color, but I won't be picky about that! :)

Now I will try to get back in the groove of posting. I think not having my computer worked out for the best anyway - I wouldn't have had enough time to post anyway.

I'm going to sign out now, since I have some things to do before tomorrow, but I hope you all will have a blessed Christmas. Be sure to hug all those folks you'll be with this week - even the ones you might not like very much. We never know if this Christmas will be the last one we have with those we love.

Blessings to you and yours!

'Tis the season, to be jolly....

But sometimes it's hard! My laptop was fixed and returned to me - only to be sent back today! It is a long story. But here it is in a letter I wrote to Apple and sent with my computer:

To Whom It May Concern:
...

On the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, my laptop stopped working correctly. I took it the next day to a local Apple repair shop and they determined the logic board was bad and that it would have to be shipped to Apple for repairs. It was shipped on the Wednesday prior to Thanksgiving (November 24). I understood that with the holidays, it would be the following week before my computer would arrive at the repair center. The local repair shop was awesome at keeping me apprised of the status of my computer, but was at a loss as to why it was taking so long to get repaired. After a week and a half, the status on my computer indicated that the part was backordered. One of the guys at the local shop talked with someone at the repair center on Thursday, December 9, and was told that if the part had not arrived by Monday, December 15, he would put me in touch with Apple and they would talk with me about replacing my laptop. I called the local shop on Monday and they told me the part had been found and my computer had been repaired on Saturday, December 11 and that I should have my computer back by Tuesday, December 16 – almost three weeks to the date it had been shipped in the first place. Needless to say, I was just happy to get my laptop back.

I called on Tuesday, December 16, to see if my laptop had made it back, and sure enough – it had. I went to get it and was very dismayed by what I found. After I had checked to make sure the data on the computer was mine, the guy from the store closed my laptop and I was treated to the first view of the outer casing on my laptop. First of all, some tape had been applied and removed and in its place was a huge spot of tape glue. Not only that, there were other scratches and marks on the outside that were not there when I shipped it for repairs. They guy used some “Goo Gone” to remove the tape glue and then cleaned the top of the laptop, however, there were still many marks on my laptop that were not there the last time I had seen it. Unfortunately, I was running out of time on my lunch hour and had to leave before giving my laptop a detailed once-over. When I got back to my office and was able to really look at it, I was even more dismayed by the overall appearance of my laptop.

In addition to the scratches and marks on the top of my laptop, there were scratches to the bottom of the case and some of the seams of the laptop – the places where the different parts of the case come together – were warped or had gaps. For example, looking at the front of the laptop with the top down, near the clasp, the seam where the top of the keyboard meets the bottom of the case has a gap and looks like it was forced together. Also, when looking at the front of the laptop with the top down, the screen is warped, and does not close like it did prior to being “repaired”.

From a consumer’s perspective, it seems that when talk turned from repairing my computer to possibly having to replace it, the part suddenly appeared and my computer was “thrown together” to get it back to me. I feel that I am a reasonable person and that I was very understanding about the amount of time it took to repair my computer. However, I am severely disappointed in the treatment of my laptop. In my opinion the technicians should have treated it with more care than it was afforded. Now, I have to send my laptop off again for who knows how long to fix what wasn’t broken in the first place.

...

Well, that about sums it up. Can you tell I was/am frustrated? I don't think I'm being unreasonable.

I must admit, though, after dealing with this yesterday, I was quickly reminded of how stuff like this isn't really that important when there are people who are hungry or homeless or family-and friend-less. I have been so blessed in every other way, I truly cannot complain.

So.....my holiday will still be jolly and happy because I have family and friends who love me and whom I love. I hope you do, too!

Holiday....whatever?

Is anyone else feeling like you just wish you weren't at work? Not because you don't like the job or the people you work with (although I do have some friends in that situation) but simply because the holidays are drawing near and you'd just rather not be in the office.

I'm telling you, it is a struggle for me. I do love my job and the people I work with, but I do not want to be sitting here at this desk working. I feel like I need to be "out there" doing something other than what I'm doing. I think it is a result of years spent in school, counting down the days until the Christmas break, which lasted for two weeks. Two whole weeks of doing nothing. Then once Christmas break was over, you knew it was back to work. It's funny....once the new year rolls around and I put up the Christmas ornaments and clean the corner where the tree now stands, it will be back to business as usual. Just like when I was in school.

Part of my apathy this time, is a strong desire to go and be somewhere where God and I can be together. I'm working through some things in my mind and I'd like to just go away from everyone and read the Word and talk to God. Maybe I should take a day off and do that anyway. Hmmm.....

Anyway, thought I'd post something during one spell of apathy here at my desk. Still no news on the iBook. It could be the end of this week or even next week before I get it back. *groan* I'll survive, I suppose.

iBook Update

Well, it could be the end of next week before I get my laptop back. *sigh* They are having to replace the logic board, and apparently, many other people's as well. Seems like they had a generation of bad logic boards and now they are on backorder. All I know is, I miss my 'puter!

In spite of being Mac-less, life has been busy. As I said, I knew this week at work was going to be crazy, and sure enough - it has! The only reason I'm getting to post something is because no one else is in the office right now. I finally finished our newsletter and other items we have to get printed to mail out. Whew! I need a vacation!

Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving! Ours was fantastic! We had 10 people at our house on Thanksgiving. The food was great, but the fellowship was even better. I'm just so thankful to God for all of His blessings in my life.

Last night, me and Deedee picked out our Christmas tree. I know she probably wanted to kill me. I'm so picky and all she wanted was a tree. We did meet in the middle and found a really cute tree for only $30!!! She was excited to find one cheap and I was glad to get a tree I actually liked. Her boyfriend, James, helped us get it to the house. He is just an awesome guy. I'll be sure to post pictures of the Christmas tree. (I know I missed getting pictures of the pumpkins at Halloween, but the tree will live longer than our pumpkins did!)

Anyway, this weekend is going to be crazy - oh the holiday season! It's Christmas-time in the city! I'm leading worship at a church "lock-in" tonight, but then I'll have to leave around 2am to make the hour-long drive home so I can grab a couple hours of sleep before I have to get up and be in a Christmas parade (with our motorcycle ministry) first thing in the morning. Needless to say, tomorrow is going to be interesting! I'm already tired thinking about it. On top of that - we have to decorate our tree sometime!

I hope your weekend is fun for you! Until next time.....

I've been grounded

Alas, my friends, I am an artist without a paintbrush....my Mac has been sent in for service work. Honestly, it breaks my heart to even say that, seeing as how wonderful Mac's are. One would think they are invincible. Apparently, they are not.

My iBook gave up the ghost after a brief struggle that began yesterday. It seems that there is some problem with some part of the hardware, so it is being sent back to Apple to be fixed. Fortunately, it is still under warranty!! Woohoo!!!

Unfortunately, I won't have a computer for about 2 weeks! Aaagghhh! This means posts will be few and far between. (This is a busy time at work, so even getting online there will be hard!)

I know that there is a lesson in this. God is again using an event in my life to remind me that He is my source and everything I need. Just this past Sunday, our pastor shared from the scripture in 1 John 2:15-17 about "loving the world." From that, he brought out the fact that anything we value or love more than God reveals that His love is not in us. Ouch! Here, again, the harsh truth of the Word cuts deep.

It is really easy to get caught up in desiring and loving the "things" of this world. Before you start yelling, I'm not saying it's wrong to have things, but whenever they take our attention from God and what He wants to do in us and through us, we should give them up or at the very least, examine our attitude about those things and see how they line up with His Word.

I plan on using this time to focus my attention on Him and what He's speaking to me. Not only that, since this is the Thanksgiving holiday, instead of bemoaning the fact my computer is absent, I'm going to focus on what I do have to be thankful for. Perhaps I won't even miss my computer!

I just love these things!

You are Psalms.


Which book of the Bible are you?
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There's no place like home!

"Toto, I don't think we're in Kansas (City) anymore!"

I am so glad to be back! Actually, I was home Thursday night, I've just been too busy to post.

Anyway, there is truly no place like home. I don't know if I feel that way because I'm becoming more of a homebody as I get older, or if I just truly love my home. I enjoyed my trip - we had fun and it was great seeing everyone from the Home Office - but after the second day, I was ready to come home! I missed my bed and my dog! :)

I've often wondered if I should have tried moving away from my hometown - either to go to college or to take a job in another state. I mean, I'm single, I have a degree in Accounting (although I'd probably have to go back to school for some refresher courses) and no real "thing", other than my parents and siblings, to tie me down. As a matter of fact, I have a standing offer with the Home Office for a job, should I decide to move there. "There" being Kansas City. They usually say it joking around (because they know I'd never leave my current job) but they are serious about the offer. It's nice to know people like you and want you around.

In spite of that, I am still here. I like being here. I love my house and my roommates. My church is fantastic. And, I truly enjoy my job and love the people I work with. On top of that, God is opening some doors for ministry - I've made some new friends at a local coffee shop and I'm looking forward to how God can use me to minister to them.

I guess, like Dorothy in the "Wizard of Oz", I realize that I don't need to go off to find happiness. Everything I need and love is right here. And that's just fine.

Enjoying Kansas City!

Just caught a few minutes and thought I'd post something. Unfortunately, we don't have internet access at our hotel (what's up with that?) so I'm writing this live from our home office.

When I arrived Monday, I found out that I would have to present the Devotional on Tuesday morning, so I was up late Monday night pulling something together. It ended up being about worry - which as an admin assistant can be a constant companion. It was really cool, because the devotion was as much for me as for any of the other ladies. I used the passage in Matthew 6 where Jesus is talking to the crowd about not worrying about our needs. If He can keep up with the birds and the flowers, how much more does He care for us? It was really good. I think just having to dig into the Word like that was good for me. A couple of ladies came up and thanked me for the devotion, so at least it blessed someone else, too!

Anyway, we're having a great time. This class of admin's is very small and very quiet! They are really nice women, but not very lively. I think I'm the liveliest in the bunch, besides the other trainer from Florida - who is a close personal friend and my roommate here. Life is just too short to be dull!

Hope life is treating everyone well. I'll be home Thursday night, so hopefully I'll be able to post some other stuff then.

Biker chick!

Well, it's official - I am now a member of the Soul Searchers Chapter of New Beginnings Motorcycle Ministry. Not only am I a member, they elected me Secretary/Treasurer. How's that for an interesting bit of news?!?!?

I was voted in on Friday night as member and officer and received my colors (back patch). I had my cloth patch sewn onto my denim jacket and it looks sharp!!! I've got to get a leather vest for my leather patch. The only thing is - I don't have a bike. Yet. :) I am working my way towards getting a motorcycle. It will probably take a year or so, but, Lord willing, I will have one! I'm not sure what I want - my first inclination is for a Harley Davidson. When people ask what you ride, I think it just sounds better.....Harley Davidson. Don't you? I will say this, my pastor has a fine Yamaha V-Star Custom 650cc and I would consider getting one of those, too. Anyway, I can't afford one right now, so I'll just be "window shopping" for a while.

In other news, I'll be leaving for Kansas City tomorrow morning. I'm going to our Home Office for New Staff Training. I'll be "training" new Administrative Assistants. This is my third year to go and I just love it! If I have internet access in the hotel we're staying in, I'll try to keep up with my posts. If not, I'll try to squeeze one or two in somehow.

Y'all have a blessed week and God bless!

Music to my ears!

I'm excited! I finally moved my piano from my parents house to my house. I have missed being able to sit down and play whenever the urge strikes. Playing the piano is therapeutic for me. When I have a stressful day or just need to relieve some tension, I'll pull out some old sheet music and play away.

Music is also my main venue of praise and worship to God. That includes playing my piano, singing or just listening to music that speaks to my heart. I sense His presence more when I'm into my music and whenever I need to pour out my heart to Him, I can do it much better through music than words.

Tonight I had the house to myself so I spent about an hour just piddling around on my piano. I was made painfully aware how out of practice I am. This is particularly strange since I'm the pianist for my church, but what I play on Sunday is a whole different ball game from Franz Schubert or Scott Joplin!

My piano is just a Lowrey console, nothing really special, except that I've had it since I was about 9 years old. (That's 21 years! Yikes, I'm getting old!) Anyway, I love the sound and feel of a real stringed piano, but I'm considering getting a digital. They are so much easier to move and I can plug earphones into one and play whenever I want to without disturbing anyone! Especially a plus if you have roommates!

In the meantime, I will take advantage of any opportunity I have the house to myself to work on some music. (I have one piece that has been requested by my pastor for an offertory that I must learn soon.) That way, no one else has to endure my mistakes as I work out the kinks!

Which Matrix character are you?

You are Trinity, from "The Matrix."
Strong, beautiful- you epitomize the ultimate
heroine.


What Matrix Persona Are You?
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Just who I would want to be like from that movie!

I saw Jesus today.

Have you ever met someone who, without any doubt, is in tune with Christ and His heart? Fortunately for me, I work for one of those people.

Now don't get me wrong, there are days when I'd rather not be at work - usually that's more because of me and my attitude than the people I work with - but there are those days, few and far between though they are, that I just don't want to be in the office.

Putting all that to the side, my boss is one of the few people I have ever known whose heart is truly tuned in to what Christ is doing. In case you don't know, I work for a non-profit sports ministry, so of course, I work in a decidedly Christian environment. I get tickled at my boss, sometimes, for the way he will "corner" people and ask them about what they know of Christ and whether or not they have a relationship with Him. Usually when he does that, and I'm around, I think to myself "man, I could not do that!" and then proceed to justify myself with some mumbled thoughts of "you can't force the Word on people" or "I think you should build a relationship first. People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care." The fact remains, Bill is willing to share Christ - no matter what. Wow!

Well, he did it again today. A woman called our office looking for some financial assistance. She had lost a child a month or so ago and also lost her job, so she can't pay her rent or utilities this month. I talked with her for a minute and was, of course, skeptical that she was telling the truth. So, I put her on hold and then went to tell Bill about her. He paused a moment and before he picked up the phone told me I could stay in there and listen. As I was sitting there listening to his conversation over the speakerphone, I was simply amazed. He started out asking for some specific information from her: name, address, phone, last few places she worked, etc. Then, he does what he's good at, and began to ask her about her faith and relationship with Christ.

As I sat there, I began to think of the verse in the Bible where Peter was walking into the Temple and passed by the crippled man begging at the temple gate. He looked intently at the man and said:

"Look at us! I don't have any money for you, but I'll give you what I have. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!" Acts 3:4-6

Peter wasn't concerned with giving the man money to make it another day. His concern, besides bringing glory to Jesus, was to meet the deeper need of this man. He saw an opportunity to give this man something more valuable than money to meet one day's needs. Peter gave him something that would last through eternity.

I was convicted for all the times I had helped people without first talking with them about their eternal soul. What does giving money or a helping hand or even "being a friend" do for someone who is walking the thin line between eternal life and eternal hell? Every day we encounter people who just need to know that there is a God in heaven who loved them so much, He gave His Son to die so that they could know Him intimately.

The rest of the story is this - Bill walked this woman through several scriptures in the Bible and just shared Christ with her. She prayed a prayer of confession and repentance and gave her life to Christ! Just like that! It was beautiful. Now that her soul's need has been met, we get to work on the other needs she has.

She's coming to the office tomorrow to meet me and hopefully one of the other guys in the office (since Bill won't be here.) We're working on helping her with finding a job and meeting the financial needs she has, so if you think about it, say a prayer.

Stop the world, I want to get off!

Is it just me or is life really speeding up? Man, I tell ya - it seems like it was just January 1st and here we are in November! As fast as time flies, I'm sure I'm missing something!

Anyway, we had a busy weekend. Our house is finally complete! Deedee and I drove to Arkansas to get a washer and dryer from her dad. (Adam, we were in your neck of the woods!) It was an all day trip, but we are now able to wash clothes whenever we want to! Woohoo!

I'm still working through "A Call to Die" by David Nasser. It has really been an eye opener for me. I got off track a couple of weeks ago and was feeling guilty about being so behind, but God once again showed me how He works in everything. It seems like everyday I've read exactly what I needed. I can see where a couple of times, I wouldn't have been open to what God is trying to do if I had "stayed on track". God is good!

I also started reading a book by Bunny Wilson - "Knight in Shining Armor - Discovering Your Lifelong Love". It is fabulous! She encourages the reader to take six months, put a sign up (so to speak) that you are "Under Construction" and take the time to really get to know yourself and your True Husband - Jesus. It's kind of neat because I had already purposed in my heart to do just that. That was one of the reasons I began "A Call to Die". At the end of each chapter, there are questions to consider and activities to do, so I'm going to work through each of those as well. I am really excited by what God is doing in my life. I would encourage any single women reading this post to get that book. I read the whole thing last night, but now I'm going to go back and take time to work through each principle. She also has another book - "Liberated Through Submission - God's Design for Freedom in All Relationships". I started reading through that one and it is really eye opening as well.

Well, enough about all that. Today is beautiful and I am thankful to God for all He has done and is doing in my life. Here's a scripture for you:

O god, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water. I have seen you in your sanctuary and gazed upon your power and glory. Your unfailing love is better to me than life itself; how I praise you! I will honor you as long as I live, lifting up my hands to you in prayer. You satisfy me more than the richest of foods. I will praise you with songs of joy! Psalm 63:1-5

Adding some new stuff

As you may be able to tell, I've added some stuff to my page. (Look to the right!) I've wanted to put some info about me on my website and just haven't had a chance to do it. I've also added a link where you can IM me directly from my website. (You need to have AIM installed on your computer for it to work.)

Anyway, let me know what you think! If there's something else you'd like to know about me, leave a comment. I might do one of those "100 things about me" lists. :-)

What a great weekend!

I had such a wonderful weekend. There wasn't anything exceptionally great about the weekend other than the fact that I really could sense God's presence in a way I haven't felt in a while.

One new thing I did was volunteer to serve at the local theatre. I worked the concession stand serving snacks and drinks. I had fun, got to meet some really nice people, see a good play and to top it all off - was groped by a 70 year old man! That was definitely a first for me! I don't know if he realized he touched my butt, but touch it he did! Needless to say, I was shocked, but not really offended. I mean, the man had been drinking and just seemed to be excited about being there. (He was also a volunteer.)

Anyway, back to the original point of this post. I have really been on the "mountaintop" in my walk over the past few days. I have come to appreciate these times. It gives me an opportunity to look back at where I've come from and examine all the things God has brought me through and has been trying to teach me. He has blessed me in so many ways, I could talk about it for days.

One thing I've learned I need to do while on the "mountaintop" is gear up for the next valley. Because...they always come. The good thing is (at least for this moment) I don't fear the next valley experience as much as I used to. I believe I'm learning to trust God more (I've been working hard at it), and so when those dark times come, I'm going to trust God. I know the valley does not last forever. I'll come through it, because I have before.....because He's brought me through before. Of course, I am speaking from the "mountaintop" right now!

I don't mean to sound like I've got it all together, because at this point in my life, I've just begun to realize how un-together I am - but I do sense a change in me. I'm still working through that Bible study "A Call to Die", and the other day, I was reading about going through dark times. As a young Christian, dark times can be brought about by the sin that is in our life. However, as we mature in our faith, there are dark times we experience because God is wanting to test us - to see where we are in our faith. As I read this particular day's devotion, I really began to examine where I've been in my walk and what were the lessons learned from the dark times I've already experienced. I believe most of them so far have been because of sin in my life, which is kinda scary! That means I haven't been through a time of "testing". You know - the kind that results in those really dark times. I know it's coming and I'm trying to prepare. I think I'm more scared of failing the test than actually going through it.

What if I am found lacking in some way? What character flaw in me will be revealed? What will become of me? What will people see when I go through the test - God or me?

As I read these questions, I realize just how self-centered they sound. Part of me doesn't want to be shown in a bad light or come up short - as most people would agree (if they're honest!) But - there is another part that doesn't want to bring shame upon God's name. I want to be an example to others that, "yes, you too can make it and be full of joy and peace!"

I've tried not to dwell too much on the fact that valleys and dark times of testing are inevitable. I'm just trying to prepare - filling myself with the Word and listening to God's voice. I want to be able to hear Him when He's speaking in that "still small voice" and for those times I can't hear Him, I'll know His voice anyway because of His Word that is in my heart. I just want Him to be proud of me!

Finger Update!

Well, good news - I'm almost back 100%!!!! Almost!

My finger is/was broken, but not like one would think. I went to an orthopedic doctor on Tuesday and had him check it out. He told me that when my finger bent backwards (when I hit the floor!) the ligament in my finger had a good hold on the bone and basically pulled a small chip of the bone off. Ehhh! So it wasn't like the bone was broken in half or anything. THANK GOD!!!! I don't think I would have been able to handle a seriously broken finger!

I don't think my church would have liked it too much either, since I'm the pianist! It would have been terrible to sing to taped music.

Anyway, I am using all 10 fingers to type this post. My "broken" finger is still very stiff and sore (from the tissue damage more than the bone chip) and is colored a lovely mix of purples, greens and yellows. Fortunately, the bruising is fading away. I'll be glad when I can bend my finger and not notice!

Shout outs

I just wanted to post a quick thanks to all of those who visit my site on a regular basis or who have my site listed in your links. I appreciate you!

Here are a few new links I've added to my website that I think are interesting.

Jax of Jax Place

Ailina of Paperbent and Lordside

Neely of Unquenchable Songs & Endless Praise

And last, but not least:

Joshua of VoxJoshua

Check them out if you get a chance!

Another first

I must say, I do not like getting older! Up until last April, I had never broken a bone in my life, and now within a year and a half, I have broken two!

Today, I broke my finger. And not just any finger. No - due to my injury, I am sure to offend someone because of the stigma attached to a fully extended middle finger. I cannot help it.

"So, Christy, how did you break the aforementioned finger?" I'm sure you're all dying to know. Well, that's what makes this story even better! I told the lady at the ER business office that when I injure myself, I make sure there's an interesting story to go with it, otherwise, what's the point, right?

Anyway, here's what happened: Deedee cooked a fabulous lunch - steak, grilled vegetables and mashed potatoes. (Her boyfriend helped her with the grilling.) Anyway, we were sitting in the living room, eating lunch. Deedee's boyfriend was sitting on the floor. Everyone was tossing my dog the fat and gristle from their steaks, so she was walking the floor, waiting to see what else was coming. Well, James looks away to say something to Deedee, and Sheba walks up and grabs his steak off of his plate. I couldn't believe it! So I scream at Sheba and walk over to her to grab the steak from her. At the same time, I go to pop her on the head, and she moves! So instead of popping Sheba, my hand makes contact with the hardwood floor. After that, I didn't care about the steak, Sheba or anything else. That hurt!!!!! After about an hour, and my finger doubling in size, I decided to go get it checked out.

The good news is, I was in and out of the ER in an hour and a half. The bad news, of course, was that I had fractured my finger. The doc told me I had chipped the bone. Tomorrow, I'm going to try and see an orthopedic doctor to make sure there's not any worse damage. After all, I work on a computer every day and play piano for church. My fingers are precious to me!

So that's the drama of my day. As I sit here working on this entry, I'm getting better at typing. I think I'll make do at work. We'll see how I fare at the piano next Sunday!

Everything I ever needed to know about life, I learned from my dog.

Last night, I was reminded of a valuable lesson - trust.

I gave my dog, Sheba, a bath. She hates getting a bath. Even though she always needs them by the time I give her one, she simply hates getting one. When the bath is over, I have to wrap her in a towel and hold her tightly to dry her off. Otherwise, she makes a mess. She'll run all over the place, spraying water and hair over everything and then will make a running dive into the nearest carpet to begin the "Doggie Shuffle". Anyone with a dog is sure to know what that is!

Anyway, we made it through the bath and because she was so good, I decided to give her a treat. So as I got the treat and was sitting on the bed, about to give it to her, I was reminded of how I respond to my Master when He has to "give me a bath" or when He wants to pour out His blessings in my life.

As I sat there, breaking up the cookie into small pieces, I watched my dog and how she responded to me. She sat there, totally focused on my hands and what was in them. As I gave her each piece, her eyes never left my hands. A couple of times I closed my hand with a piece of the cookie inside it, and just sat there, waiting to see what she would do. There were a couple of times she looked away - a car was passing by or a noise caught her attention - but she would always quickly turn back to stare intently at my hand, waiting to see what I was going to do.

It seemed like God was gently prodding me about my response to Him. How do I respond to Him when he wants to "wash me clean"? Do I just endure it, counting down the time until I can get out and run free? Or do I relish those times of cleansing and allow Him to do a thorough job? Am I as fervent in my devotion to "watching His hand"? Do I allow the distractions of this world to cause me to turn away from Him and perhaps miss a blessing or a ministry opportunity He has for me? Do I trust Him enough to simply wait for Him to move in my life? I was convicted, to say the least.

This is something I've been dealing with for a while. This, trusting God thing. I'm trying to figure out why it is so hard for me. It's sort of unfair, because He made me to be independent, but I'm supposed to lay that all down (dying daily to that sinful nature in me) and submit to Him. I'm not complaining, just trying to figure out how to do that. I'm sure a lot of my struggle is due to the sin of pride in my life. I've just recently recognized that I do have too much pride. It's hard when God gives you a good "scrubbing" by shining the light of His truth in your life.

The fact remains that I do want to trust God. To be broken and submissive to Him. Good grief, if I can't trust the Creator of the Universe, then whom can I trust? The hard part is getting to that broken and submissive place. To be the clay in the Potter's hands. To realize, truly realize, that without God, there is no point in going on.

I'm getting better - of this I'm sure! I'm almost beginning to look forward to the next bath!

Yes, Grasshoppa! A Ninja Story

Found this hilarious story over at Dave's site.

I almost wet myself laughing at it!

What kind of world do we live in?

I'm sure all of you have heard the name Terri Schindler-Schiavo in the news lately. Just today, after hearing her father on the Sean Hannity radio program, I went and looked up the website her family has about Terri's situation.

This is just unbelievable! The videos on this website of Terri and her reactions to several different stimuli is amazing. Her husband (who I believe is just evil) has refused any type of rehabilitative therapy for Terri ever since she received an award for a malpractice suit. Terri's father asserts that her husband had something to do with her "collapse" and that is why he doesn't want her to live. He must be afraid of what she would say if she were to start talking.

I only wish I had known more about this before now. Folks, pray for Terri and her family, and that God would intervene in this situation. Unless something happens (i.e., Governor Jeb Bush intervenes or God miraculously intervenes) Terri will slowly die of starvation.

There are several links on Terri's webpage for ways you can help. Who knows, a few more phone calls might make a difference.

Made some changes

Just so you know, I had to change my commenting feature, which means I've lost all the awesome comments left prior to today.

I'm sorry about that! I just got tired of my comments not being there from time to time. I've seen Haloscan being used by several other blogs and thought I'd give them a try.

Please feel free to go back and comment on any prior posting! It might be fun to see what people have to say about past posts!

In any case, I always enjoy reading your posts! I hope you'll continue to leave a bunch!

If only...

Have you ever been somewhere, and a person of the opposite sex walks into the room and so captivates your attention that you lose yourself for a moment (or two, or three....)? That happened to me today.

I was at my friend's office (I was just dropping something off to her) and this guy walks in for a meeting with someone else in her office. Well, when he walked in, I was just knocked over - so to speak. He is an attractive man and the first thing I thought was, "Lord, please let him be single!" Of course, the first thing I look for is a ring on that fourth finger of his left hand and lo and behold, it is naked! I'm thinking, this is good. Well, introductions were made and he asks me if I attended a particular college. I knew he looked vaguely familiar, so when he said he had also attended that school, that explained it. So he goes into the other office and then a few seconds later comes back out. When I introduced myself to him, I mentioned that I work for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He had come back out to ask me how he could get involved with FCA, so I told him I could get him some more information about it. He said ok and went back into the other office for his meeting.

Meanwhile, I'm standing there, praying to God that he is single. I mean, I've never been this rattled by meeting someone. It is very strange. Anyway, my friend gives me a piece of paper so I can write my name and office number down to give to this guy, so he can call me to get more info about FCA. When I finished, I jokingly said, "I'm leaving now, so when you give this to him, ask him if he's married. If he's not, tell him to call me!!!" We laughed at that (although I was dead serious) and then she proceeded to show me something on her computer.

All the while I'm standing at her desk, I'm thinking I need to get out of there before I do or say something stupid. Before too much longer, his meeting is over, so he comes back out and stands there and talks to the both of us for a minute. He then asks me where I went to high school. It turns out, not only did we go to the same college, but we had both attended the same high school. He graduated the year before I did. This explained further why he was familiar to me.

We were having a great conversation (I can tell he is a genuinely nice guy and committed to Christ). I couldn't remember much about him from high school (although, the more I think about it, I'm beginning to remember some things. i.e., he was a really nice guy in high school, too!) The good news is - he's a Christian! He shared a little bit about what God had done in his life and that was cool. The bad news is - he is separated from his wife (has been for a year) and has a four year old daughter. I was so disappointed!!!! I won't lie about it. He wants to reconcile with his wife, which is great! That is God's will, I know. At the same time, he said he is just trusting the Lord for his life and if it was God's will for someone else to come into his life, he was ok with that.

I'll say it again - I was disappointed. Here lately, I've really been thinking about dating and relationships and have begun to pray regularly for my future husband (whoever he might be), so the whole idea of meeting someone has been on my mind. I was rather startled at the intense reaction I had to this guy - it wasn't just a physical response like "oh my goodness, he's hot!" There was also a strong desire to want to know more about him. I don't think I've ever experienced that before. It got worse the more we talked, because he really has a great personality and I could tell he would be the type of guy I would definitely date.

So I left my friend's office (after he left) and start talking to God. Of course the most obvious argument I present to Him is "Why couldn't he have met me before his wife?" I immediately know the answer to that - God gently reminds me: "Do you remember who you were 7 years ago and what you've learned since then?"

"I know!" Then I proceed to throw a short pity party just a bit before I really get a hold of myself and begin to thank God that He knows what's best for me. I finally give it up and tell Him that I trust Him for bringing the right person into my life at the right time. I know He will. I just get impatient.

Nevertheless, this whole episode has caused me to consider what I would do if I met someone who was divorced and had a child. I don't think I would have as much a problem with dating a man who had been married and had no children with his first wife, especially if the guy was a dedicated Christian and had done everything in his power to try and reconcile. But to consider someone who was married and had a child....I just don't know. This guy would make me wonder about it (if he were available and were interested in me, that is!)

To any of you reading this who are divorced or are in a situation similar to this, please don't think this is a judgment on you or your life. I'm just writing about my feelings and experiences. I know that there are certain things I don't want, and until God changes my mind, that's the way I feel. Being involved with someone who is divorced with children is one of those things I don't think I could do. But - I'm not sure.

I'm just glad that God is in control. I truly trust Him for this area of my life and can't wait to see what He brings about. I'm just keeping my eyes and ears open, so that when He directs, I will follow!

A beautiful day!

I just love it when God blesses us with beautiful weather! Fall has finally and officially arrived!!!! Woo hoo!! I saw it when it came. It was the coolest thing!

I was driving to my house after going by the bank and could actually see fall arrive. Let me explain: this morning when I woke up, the sky was overcast and it was muggy outside. Not really hot, but just yucky. Well, when the front was moving through, you could actually see where the clouds ended and the blue skies began! It was cool! By the time I got to my house, there was a wind out of the north, blowing through the trees and you could just feel fall arriving! It was fantastic! I was so excited and the rest of my day was just great! This is my absolute favorite time of year!

In other news....I am really enjoying this Bible study - "A Call To Die". Well, enjoying may not be the right word....but it will do. I know one thing - I am learning a lot about myself. (I think I said that in another post.) It has been very revealing - and not always easy. I believe that God is about to do something in my life, or allow something big to take place. I only wish He would give me a "heads up" about it. Well, I guess He is - I know that I am supposed to be preparing for whatever it is by spending time in the word. I need to take some time to just "listen". I'm not real good at that.

Anyway - my battery is about to die and I'm getting cold sitting here at Cups, so I guess I'll go for now. I'm going to go home and open some windows! :)

One other thing...

To all my fellow bloggers whose sites I used to visit on a regular basis (and you know who you are).....

I have not forgotten about you! I miss you terribly and feel so out of touch since I haven't been able to read your sites and post comments to your pages.

Don't forget about me or give up on me! I'll be back in full force in a couple of weeks! (Lord, willing!)

Watch out blogosphere, here I come!

Found some time

Here I am again at a local coffee shop, Cups, so that I can post to my website. I am tired of not having internet at my house, but it will be a couple of weeks before it gets hooked back up. Waiting for the next payday.

Finally got most of my money from Meagan's paycheck fiasco. I hope to get the rest of it by tomorrow. It's not a moment too soon, since my car insurance will expire on Monday if I don't get a check to them. (That's another result of the money problems caused by Meagan's paycheck bouncing.) Anyway, it is about to be resolved and God has still been faithful through it all. I am glad I know Him.

Speaking of God....this Bible study Deedee and I are doing is kicking my tail. I've come to realize it is a good thing...but VERY difficult! In my previous post, I mentioned that God is dealing with me on some issues in my life. It has been difficult to come face to face with these issues. The one thing I am more certain of than ever, is that I need a Savior. I thought I "had it together" on a lot of different things. That was one of my main problems. I had become comfortable with me the way I am, but what I am is still way short of Christ's standard. Darn. I'm just thankful for my Savior and for the grace and mercy that was provided to me by His sacrifice.

A scripture I've had to memorize for this study is Galatians 2:20 - "I no longer live, but Christ now lives in me. So I will live my life in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." I've read that scripture before (as I'm sure most people have) but it definitely has more meaning now. I am awed and amazed at the price Jesus paid for me. The least I can do is to trust Him. (Another one of my incredible shortcomings!) It isn't easy, but I'm getting better at trusting Him.

Checkin' In

I got an opportunity to be online, so I thought I'd post something really quick.

Deedee and I have started the study "A Call to Die". It is really bringing out some things in my life that I've never dealt with before. As hard as it is, I'm glad to be doing it. I've gotten tired of my spiritual life as it is and so it is worth whatever cost to be able to know Christ better and be more real with myself.

My pastor pointed something out at church last night that I had never considered or realized. He said that the Bible is a mirror that shows us our shortcomings and failures - our imperfections. For example, I may have never known what envy is until one day, I read about it in the Bible. All of a sudden, I realize - I have been envious of my friend. Now I know of a shortcoming in my life. The good news is, we have hope in Christ! There is redemption! Thank God for Grace!

Anyway, what I realized is this: I had been reading the Bible looking for a "good feeling" so to speak and not for the the hard truth. Not for the Word that cuts like a two-edged sword. I have been avoiding those parts that point out my shortcomings. Those parts that would really cause me to examine my life and that would eventually make me more like Christ.

Needless to say, it hasn't been "fun" exactly. I've been looking hard and long at my life. I'm not sure what I think right now, but I know that God is working something out in me and I can't wait to see what He can make out of this mess I am. :)

I have not forgotten

that I have a blog! I just do not have internet at my house for a while.

It is a crazy story!

Here's the deal: one of my roommate's paycheck bounced! Can you believe that!?!?!?! She has been going absolutely crazy trying to get this mess straightened out. As a result, she has had hundreds of dollars in NSF and returned check fees (which she will recoup from the company she works for). It has affected all of us - she wrote checks on behalf of her sister (who was out of checks at that time) and also wrote me a check for some money she owed me. Needless to say, it screwed my bank account up and I have been winging it until payday (which is tomorrow - thank God!)

So.....our cable and internet access was cut off because of this fiasco. It will be a few days until I get the hi-speed internet connected. We've decided not to get cable for the time being. One reason is we are trying to save money; the other reason is, my roommate Deedee and I are starting a daily devotional titled "A Call to Die" by David Nasser. One of the things it suggests for the study to be effective is to commit to fasting from something for the 40 days it takes to go through the book. Deedee and I both feel like TV is what God is calling us to fast from. I haven't tallied the total hours a week I've spent watching tv because I'm scared to know how much of my time has been wasted in front of the tube.

Anyway, this is one of the goals I had in mind when I posted this article. I still haven't taken the time to write out my list of goals, but I will be able to do that now that I'm fasting from tv!!! I'm excited about this study and will share my experiences about what I learn.

Not much to say

As you can tell, I haven't had much to say. I've been busy but more to the point, I've been putting off some things that would greatly increase the number of posts. Namely - I've been avoiding dealing with some personal things. But more on that later.

The family is doing well. Roomates are doing good - although there's been some drama for Meagan. I've got to make sure it's ok with her to post about it, but right now is not a good time for it. If you're looking for something to pray about - pray for her about her job. She could really use some Divine intervention!

Anyway, I'll be housesitting for the rest of the week, so I might try to write some things at night and then actually post them when I get to work. Hopefully I can do some catching up.

Later!

What a beautiful day

It sure was a beautiful day today. I wasn't outside for most of it, but the few times I was outside it was nice.

No, my day was beautiful in other ways. It was so good to be in the house of the Lord this morning with my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. Then, I went to my mom's house and ate dinner with my family. After that, I washed clothes while watching a movie with my mom and dad. It was just a great day.

By the way, we watched one of my all time favorite movies - "The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers". That is a fabulous movie for discussing spiritual things. It (along with the first movie) are rich in spiritual applications. I highly recommend both of them!

Hope everyone else had a good day, too!

Don't you just love kids?

Ok, here she is - Trinity Cheyenne! Isn't she beautiful!!?!?! She is so tiny, too! I'm so excited by her birth and a bit sad. Excited because I get to love another wonderful child and be an influence in her life - sad because this will be the last opportunity for me to be an aunt for a while. If my youngest brother ever gets married and starts having children, I'll be excited.

I'm also a bit sad - but not too much - that I don't have any of my own yet. However, when I look at where I am and the life that I have, I can't imagine being married and having a family right now. God's timing is always perfect - even though it's usually not my timing. Still, His way is always the better way.

In the mean time, I'm living a full life - spending time with friends and family, working, writing for this blog (although I haven't been good at it lately) and spending time getting into God's word. I cannot complain.

I'm still here

I know it's been a few days since my last post, so I wanted to put a little something here for my regular readers. :-D

I was going to post a picture of my niece, but for some reason, Blogger isn't working right. As soon as I can, I'll post her picture. She is a doll!!!

Well, I need to run. Got to take care of some business this morning before I go in to work. There may be more on this story later on!

The last time...

I'll ever be an Aunt! (Unless my youngest brother gets married and has children.)

Yes, my brother and his wife had their fourth and final child yesterday - Trinity Cheyenne. (Ben wanted to name her Trinity Omega - since she is the third daughter and the last child. Shannon wasn't going for it!) I can't wait to see her later today!

Anyway, I got to play mom yesterday to my other two nieces and nephew - Hannah, Mackenzie and Nathaniel. I took off of work to stay with them and we had a good time! I must say though, it wasn't real fun when Hannah got up at 5:50 am this morning. I don't usually see that hour of the day! I'll be staying with them each night until my brother and sister-in-law get home with the new baby. The two Mamaw's are taking turns keeping them during the day today, tomorrow and Sunday.

In any case, I'll be busy for the next few days. If I can get a picture of Trinity, I'll post it. TTFN!

Goal setting

I came to the realization today, that I really don't have any goals that I am working towards. Well, to be honest, I can't say I just realized it today. I've known for a while. I guess I just had these amorphus plans for my life - you know....get married, have children, be a stay-home mom and homeschool, be an active part of the church body....those kinds of plans, but nothing really solid that I can work towards on a daily basis. Those plans I had for me are based solely on one event - getting married. Since that's not happening right now (or in the forseeable future) I realized I better have something else to focus my time on.

What's crazy is, I thought I had pretty good plans for my life. Hah! That's what I get for thinking. My desire to set goals has really been stirred by some of the messages my pastor has been sharing over the last few weeks. It came to a head tonight with our Bible study.

We're studying Hebrews - and boy is it loaded with good stuff! Tonight we were discussing chapter 5, verses 6 and following. Verse 8 is really what spoke to me: "So even though Jesus was God's Son, he learned obedience from the things he suffered." What? Jesus was God in the flesh, why did He have to learn obedience. Because He was in the flesh. He had to bring that fleshly body into submission. He learned what it means to have self-control.

My pastor made the comment that lack of self-control means there is a deficiency in your spiritual character. Sometimes lack of self-control is obvious - i.e., being overweight, addictions (drugs, alcohol), etc. Other times it is not. This is where it really hit home. I posted a little about this the other day. I have a lack of self-control and I believe it stems from not having set any goals.

Now, I know that self-control is included in the fruit of the spirit, but I also know that fruit won't grow if it isn't watered and fed. If I'm not spending time in the Word and getting to know Jesus, that fruit is going to die on the vine. If I don't have some goals or plans for getting into the Word, I won't learn or gain any self-control.

I need some structure to my life. So, I'm going to sit down and write out some goals for myself. I will pray over them and ask God to shine His light on areas that I need to focus on. I'm sure these goals will change as I go along, but at least I will have something to work from. I'm going to post them so I'll have some incentive to follow through on these goals (and hopefully some accountability from friends!)

If anyone else has done something like this or felt the need to do so, I'd love to hear your insights and experiences.

The one thing I draw hope from is the last part of that verse in Hebrews: "...He learned obedience from the things He suffered." Christ knows all the struggles I have. All the times I fight to bring under control a response or an action that is contrary to His will...Jesus fully understands. He's been there. I'm just barely beginning to understand how much He knows about my struggles and it is comforting.

This could be interesting!

I found this link over at Susan's webpage. Sounds like it could be interesting! I guess I'll be posting more stuff about Mississippi on here. Who knows what will happen!?!?!

The Weekend

It's going to be a long weekend. But a good weekend! Both of my roomates have been gone since Thursday afternoon (they'll be home tomorrow night), but in the mean time, we've got our motorcycle ministry rally going on this weekend at my church. It's going to be fun! I've hardly been home and won't be home most of the weekend, so I'm glad Monday is a holiday!!! I'll need it to recover from the weekend!!

Yikes!

I found this tidbit over at Irene's blog.

Woman Hurt as Cellphone Bursts Into Flames

How scary is that??? What's worse is, I just bought a replacement battery for my phone at Interstate Batteries!

I guess I'll have to be extra careful!

My Hero(ine)!

I have finally found someone I want to be like when I grow up. (It's about time since I'm 30!!!)

Ann Coulter is the coolest woman! She has brains, she has beauty and she has strong beliefs and convictions. What a gal! And, she doesn't mind saying it "like it is."

I've only recently begun to pay attention to what she has to say, mainly because she's been on Fox News and Sean Hannity's radio program several times. Recently, she was interviewed by Rush Limbaugh for his newsletter. I've just begun to read some of her columns and I love her panache. I plan on getting every one of her books. Here is an excerpt from a column she wrote on September 13, 2001:

"We should invade their countries, kill their leaders and convert them to Christianity. We weren't punctilious about locating and punishing only Hitler and his top officers. We carpet-bombed German cities; we killed civilians. That's war. And this is war."

That's something you won't hear from the liberal media, but she's absolutely right.

Will I ever learn...

I am so frustrated with myself!!!!! I am in a situation right now that I could have avoided. But no - I was undisciplined and did what I wanted to do - and now I'm paying for it. Literally. My finances stink right now.

I could offer a lot of excuses - moving into a new place being top on the list - but it simply comes down to not being disciplined with my checkbook. *sigh*

Ok, Lord, I'm learning....I'm learning!!!

Does anyone else have struggles like this?

Back to normal...

Well, now that I've got our "house" website up, I'll try to keep my comments here to what's happening in my life.

As you may have gathered from some of my posts - I'm single (I don't have an "About Me" page yet). I've gotten to a place in my walk with Christ that should I never get married, I will be ok. Really... I will. I want to get married, but I want to know Christ more. One thing I know is this: before I ever get married, there are some things God wants me to deal with and work out. I'm in the process of doing that. Or at least trying to.

The other day, I was pondering this place that I am in and realized that I have a serious weakness when it comes to self-discipline and self-denial (which tend to go hand in hand.) I don't know about you, but I have a hard time denying myself the things I want. I'm just talking about the small stuff - a book, cd, dinner at a specific restaurant, a program on tv, a movie that's playing - stuff like that.

I was driving home from somewhere, and it was as if God spoke to me..."if you don't have control over simple desires (like giving in to buying a book or outfit when I don't really have the money), what kind of control will you have when you get into a relationship?" Yikes! As we all know, in relationships of any kind, there are times you have to deny yourself to keep peace or sacrifice something to please the other person. If we're going to live our lives as the Bible teaches, we are to "be devoted to one another in brotherly love, honoring one another above ourselves." (Romans 12:10) In order to "honor" someone above myself, I have to give up my own selfish wants and desires.

It dawned on me that I have not even been doing a good job of that in my relationship with Christ. Christ is perfect....He is understanding....He is infinetly patient....and loves unconditionally. Even though I know it sorrows Him when I don't give up something I should to spend time with Him, He can handle it. How in the world am I going to have a good relationship - with someone who is imperfect, not always understanding or patient and who may not love unconditionally all the time - if I don't deny myself or have self-control or exercise some self-discipline? My selfishness can and would be a stumbling block to our relationship. (And vice versa!)

Needless to say, that's been some food for thought for several days. I'm not even dating anyone, but this relationship business is hard work!

Live, from Fondren...

We are live with our new website!!!!!

Go here to see the inaugural post of the Fondren Sisterhood.

Woohoo!

Blah.

I'm in a funk.

I'm not depressed or upset about anything. In fact, besides being a little strapped for cash, life is good. I love my house, my roommates, my job, my family, my church.....you name it, it's good.

It's just me, I think.

I know what part of it is. There are some things God is trying to work out of me :) (of course that's loads of fun!) It's been interesting the things God has been speaking to me through the pastor at my church. The good news is - I'm not the only one being affected!

It all comes down to the fact that dying daily - dying to my wants and desires - is a difficult thing. I did not realize how much I was still holding on to. My pastor made this statement a couple of weeks ago - "Your commitment to Christ is not measured by what you give up, but by what you keep."

Think about it!

Sometimes, it's easy to give up those things the Christian community would label "obvious" sins - drinking, promiscuity, drugs, stealing, cheating...you know what I mean. But when it comes time to go a bit deeper in your walk and God asks you to give up other stuff (attitudes, personal ambitions, pride - just to name some) it's a bit more difficult. We feel justified in our attitudes and opinions. We get comfortable with life the way it is. Then, the Holy Spirit comes along and pricks our conscience about an attitude we may have or nudges us while we're watching a movie or tv show and whispers "How much time have you spent with me today."

*sigh*

It's crazy - I know what I need to do. I just need to get motivated to do it. I know God will bless me. I know He has my best interests at heart. I know, too, that one day, I'll look back on this moment and time and say, "If I had only known then what I know now! That was nothing!"

Coming soon!

Well, I'm working on the blog for our house. It is called the Fondren Sisterhood and will feature stories about me, my two roommates and the things going on at our house. Did I mention before that we live in Grand Central Station?

It will be loads of fun - real lighthearted and with a lot of pictures.

As soon as I get it ready and make a post, I'll let you know!

Over the river and through the woods...

To Deedee's grandma's house we go!

My roommate, Deedee, and I will be leaving on Friday to go visit her grandma and grandpa in Louisiana. I'm looking forward to meeting her grandparents - especially since all of mine have been gone for many years. I'll get a good grandparent hug from anywhere I can! :)

i just love grandparents!!!! They are so awesome.

There's nothing I like better than sitting around listening to older folks telling stories about their childhood and the "way things used to be." We can learn a lot from our elders, if we just take the time to listen to what they have to say. Some of my best memories I have of time spent with my grandparents was sitting around with all the family there (aunts, uncles, cousins, etc.) listening to stories they had about each other and what they went through growing up. We always had a good time.

So, I'll be gone for a couple of days, but in the famous words of a soon-to-be governor - "I'll be back!"

TTFN!!

They grow up so fast

My niece, Hannah, started kindergarten today. She handled it better than the rest of us, I think. :)

My other niece and nephew were at home with their mom, so I went and picked up a couple of Happy Meals and had lunch with them. My niece, Mackenzie, was taking this whole school thing a little hard. "My miss Hannah," she says as I walk in the door. She was feeling a bit left out, so I wanted to do something special just for her (and Nathaniel too!)

Anyway, we're eating lunch and we start talking about why I came and brought lunch.

"Kiki wanted to do something special for you because Hannah went to school today." My sister-in-law reminds Mackenzie.

"Right, I brought you lunch because I knew you would be missing Hannah."

"My still miss Hannah!" says Mackenzie in her cute 3 year old voice, letting me know that the food was great, but her sister was still not there!

I about fell out of my chair! That was the sweetest thing I've heard in a long time.

As for Nathaniel, as soon as he finished his Happy Meal and got his toy, he was good to go. Boys just deal with this kind of stuff differently, I guess.

Anyway, they enjoyed their meal and I enjoyed spending time with them. I will admit, though, it was strange not having Hannah around, too. The three of them are almost a package deal. At the very least, Hannah and Mackenzie are usually together.

I just don't know what I would do if I had kids!

Can I take another vacation?

Good grief! I go back to work tomorrow after a week's vacation, and I think I'm more tired now than when I started this vacation! What a week!

Yesterday, my brother got a phone call from my roommate (who's boyfriend drives a Harley and is a member of the motorcycle minstry at our church). They were out riding and had two bikes break down about an hour and a half outside of town. The national president (who lives here in town and was with them) had a trailer that could haul both bikes, but they needed someone to come get them - which meant they also needed another car to haul passengers. So my brother and I head out about 2:45 to get the trailer (he's in his truck and I'm in my car) and actually get on the road to get our friends about 3:15. It was a really pretty ride up to get them. I was wishing I had my own motorcycle! We got there around 4:45 and then got back on the road home around 5:45. It was fun, but it also made for a very long day!

Everyone was so appreciative of us coming to get them, but I can't imagine not doing what we did. I guess I've just always been that way - if someone needs help, I'll do what I can to help them. From time to time, this helpfulness gets me in trouble. Sometimes, God is trying to work something out in a person's life and I'll step in and interfere by "helping" them out of a sticky situation. I'm learning to be a bit more cautious with my desire to help someone. But this one thing I know (and those close to me have heard this thousands of times!) "Freely you have received, freely give." Jesus was telling that to the disciples right before he sent them out to preach the gospel. (Matthew 10)

Everything I have and everything I am is because of Him! Every material thing I have, every talent or ability I have was given to me by my Father in Heaven. How could I not share what I have? Mind you, this lesson has not been easily learned. In fact, I'm still learning it. But if Jesus can give up Heaven and being in the presence of His Father to come to earth and die for me, I have no right to hold on to anything I have here on earth.

That's just what was on my mind, so I thought I'd share. Hope you all are having a wonderful day!

The Last Day

Alas, tis my last day of vacation. :(

It's been fun....just wish it could last a few more days. As a matter of fact, I still have about 5 days vacation due to me but I have to use them before September 1. There's no chance that I could take another week off! I'm just going to have to get better at planning vacation throughout the year instead of waiting until the summer to get it in.

There is some good news though - I'll be going to Kansas City for about 5 days in November - and it doesn't count against my vacation! Every year I go to our home office for new staff training (as a trainer) so I have the opportunity to be away from the office. What fun!

So, I'm sure you're just dying to know what I've been doing this week....right? Well - not much! I went swimming a couple of days with my sister-in-law and the kids - taught my niece Hannah how to swim. She is amazing! I couldn't get her to swim on top of the water or to float, but when I suggested she try swimming under the water - she took off like a fish!!! Hannah is only 5 and has never really had a chance to swim, so this week was a lot of fun. She got so brave, that she was jumping off the side of the pool and then would swim under water to the other side of the pool. It was cool! She got to show her daddy, mamaw and papaw that she could swim. Needless to say, they were all proud of her.

My other niece, Mackenzie, 3, was a little more cautious - she wouldn't swim - but she was all over the pool in her little Cookie Monster float! She eventually would jump off the side of the pool wearing her float. We were all proud of her too!

Last, but not least, we have Nathaniel, 2. He stayed to the edge of the pool in his Big Bird float most of the time, but would venture out with his mom or with me every so often. A couple of times, he tried to get in without his float, but his mom caught him. By the end of the day (yesterday), he wanted to jump into the pool (without his float). So I would stand there and catch him. He also tried it with his float. I think he decided to go for it because Mamaw and Papaw were watching. Anyway - we all had a great time!

As for what else I did this week - not a whole lot. It's been kind of nice. There were times this week I wished I was at the beach, but over all - it was a good week.

It's just over way too soon.

On Vacation

I can't believe I'm actually on vacation! It's not a really fantastic vacation - I'm not on the beach - but I am off of work and out of the office!!!! Yippee! I am enjoying myself, nonetheless.

We've had a bunch going on since I last wrote. Last Friday, we hosted our first really big gathering here at the house. The motorcycle ministry we are involved with has weekly meetings (hosted at different homes each week) and we were glad to offer our home as a meeting place. It went really well. We were concerned about parking, but it worked out perfectly! Of course the bikes all parked in the front yard. I wish I had thought about it - I would have taken a picture to post! Anyway, we had about 20 people over and it was a ton of fun!!

I'm still considering doing another blog specifically about the life and times of me and my roommates in our house. I think it would be fun. I've got a couple of other stories I could post that would make for interesting reading. I guess this week would be a good time to get it running.

Well, I'm going to sign off. My two nieces are spending the night with me tonight. One has already gone to sleep and now I need to get the other one to sleep.

Until later!

A Testimony

Another eventful week! I've been in staff meetings since Sunday night and have just now taken time to write this.

Today (Tuesday), for the first time that I can really remember, I was asked to share my testimony. For those of you who may not be sure what that means, it's just sharing with others about how I came to know Jesus Christ as my Savior and Lord. That was somewhat of a challenge, because I have never really had to put my experience into words. I tell you, when you stop to try and put into words your salvation experience, you really examine where you are in your walk with Christ.

Anyway, it got me to thinking that I really need to practice sharing my testimony. After all, the Bible tells us to be prepared to give an answer to anyone who asks the reason for the hope we have (1 Peter 3:15). So, here goes:

For the most part, my family was normal. My two brothers and I had both of our parents around. They both worked to provide for us and made sure we went to church on a regular basis. If dad wasn't able to go, mom made sure we were there - probably more for her own sanity than anything else. :) Well, needless to say, I was raised in church. As some folks would say, I cut my teeth on the back of the pew. So I had a pretty good head knowledge of the Bible and God and Jesus....you know, the whole nine yards.

I attended my first summer church camp at the age of seven. I'll never forget it. It was the first time I would be staying away from home for a whole 3 days! Camp became something I looked forward to each summer. God's presence was on that campground in a way I had never before experienced. I must have gotten "saved" every year. Mostly, that was because I didn't truly understand what it meant to accept Christ in my life. I think it was more about getting caught up in the moment and the emotion of those powerful services. Now, I don't want you to think that God wasn't working. He was using each of those experiences to bring me closer to a real knowledge of Him. But it wasn't until I was 14 and in camp, that I really felt God speaking to me and saying, "ok, this is it....it's time to make a real commitment." So I truly repented and accepted Christ as my Savior...but not really as my Lord. I was saved - no doubt about it - but the trials of life were still to come and test my willingness to completely surrender my life to Jesus.

When I was 18 and a freshman in college, I attended a youth convention with my church that really stirred within my heart the need to let Jesus be Lord of my life. I had been living my life as a Christian...for the most part. I was never tempted by things (like drinking or smoking or sleeping around) like most of the people I went to high school with. I won't act like I was perfect - I was far from that - but I at least acknowledged God's presence in my life and tried to do those things I thought were necessary to be a "good Christian". But when I entered college and was away from home and away from my home church, I started not attending church and not giving so much thought to where God fit into my life. I didn't start giving in to those temptations that I had withstood to that point, but I was living life for myself. When I went to that youth conference, I was really challenged by God's Word and began to examine in my own heart whether or not I had allowed Jesus to be Lord of my life. What that meant was this: was I going to continue doing things my way or was I going to seek God for His will in my life? It was a tough question.

I made the decision to allow Him to guide me in every aspect of my life. I won't pretend that it was easy or that even now I still always let Him lead and guide me, but that was a turning point in my life. I decided to come back home and attend a local private Christian college and at the close of my freshman year, went on a mission trip to Greece and Bulgaria that really changed my life and my perspective on the Christian experience.

Ever since that pivotal year (now an amazing 11 years ago!) I have seen God move in so many ways in my life and in the lives of those around me. I've had other struggles that have challenged my walk and my faith, but each time, God has been so faithful to me and has been with me each step of the way. I can look back now and see His hand in so many areas of my life. I am truly thankful and awed by His grace and mercy.

I used to feel like I didn't have a great testimony. I wasn't one of those who had come from the pit of hell (so to speak) and had a miraculous conversion. As a matter of fact, I hardly remember living my life without a desire to please Him. However, I realized that my testimony was just as incredible as the person with the miraculous conversion. My testimony is all about God's keeping power. His ability to guard me and keep me from sin.

Now, some of you may be thinking, "Well that's just great, Christy. I'm glad your life has been so wonderful. You haven't had to struggle with things like I have. I've not had it as easy as you." You are wrong. Sure, I didn't struggle with some of those things like drinking, smoking or sleeping around - but I've had other struggles. Struggles like pride, selfishness, self-righteousness....just to name a few.

The point of all of this is regardless of when you gave (or give) your life to Christ - whether you committed your life to Christ at an early age and lived a life pleasing to Him or you were an alcoholic living life on the edge without one thought of God and His will for your life - we all are sinners in need of a Savior. Thank God His grace and mercy are available to us all. The one thing I know is this - He is able to guard those things we give to Him (2 Timothy 1:12) and if you make the commitment today to give your life to Christ and entrust Him with that - you will never be the same.

If you would like to know more about accepting Christ as your Savior or need a friend to talk to about struggles you're facing as a Christian, please email me. I would love to help you in any way I can.

A post for today...

Hey all. Seems like there's some problem with my commenting feature. If it doesn't get straightened out soon, I'll change to another service. I hate that because it means I'll lose all the great posts you've left until now. If you know a good commenting service to use, email me!

Well, anyway.....life goes on, doesn't it? ;)

On to something a little deeper....

Someone pointed out the following scripture to me the other day and I read it again last night:

"After all, you have not yet given your lives in your struggle against sin." Hebrews 12:4

In this chapter, the writer of Hebrews is encouraging his readers to lay aside the "sin that so easily hinders" their progress and reminds them to keep their eyes on Jesus - the one who endured the cross. When we compare what Jesus endured to what we struggle with - there is no reason for us to lose heart. After all, we have not given our lives in our struggle against sin.

We all struggle with sin - that's just a fact. But I've come to realize in my own walk that I don't fight nearly hard enough to avoid sin. In fact, I sometimes don't put up any kind of fight.

Yikes! It really is convicting when I sit down and think of what my Savior did for me....and then realize I don't give my best effort in resisting sin. Now - I know I will fail. Even if I strive every day to totally resist sin, there is something I will miss. But you know what I mean - the sin (or sins) that continually raises its head in our everyday living. And you know as soon as you overcome that one, another is there to take it's place.......

Well, I guess that's the growing process. All I know is I want to be more like Him. I'm glad He's always there, prompting me, encouraging me and yes - even disciplining me. According to Hebrews 12:6, God disciplines those He loves. It is good to be loved!

I've been published!

Well, my friends...I answered the call on a fellow blogger's page about insight into Southern Belles and he printed some of my thoughts (along with a few other ladies) on his site.

You can read the article here. It is very good - and true!!!!

Thanks, Adam, for including me in your article!

Thought of something else to say...

Well, as you can see by the posting time of this entry - I'm up late!!!!

Everyone made it safely home today! Thank God! Deedee and Meagan's mom is here visiting as well as her friend Pat and a little girl, Sam, that's a friend of their family. As I said the other day - this weekend is going to be a riot! Up until about 30 minutes ago, we were out on the porch visiting.

I just love people! (Most of the time!!) And having them at my house is even better! I don't know how much of that is just bred into me (being born in the south) or how much of that is born in me because of Christ being in my life. His word does say that

"Love comes from God. Anyone who loves is born of God and knows God. But anyone who does not love does not know God - for God is love." 1 John 4:7-8

That is so cool!

It is my heart's desire that our house will be a place of refuge - not only for Deedee, Meagan and myself - but for anyone who steps over our threshold and needs a little love. I pray for God's blessing to be on our house and that He would use it for His glory. Who knows what will happen??!?!?!?

Still thinking about starting a new blog about our house. Deedee likes the idea, and I haven't talked to Meagan yet. Keep watching! We may have one up soon!

Give me a break!!!!!

OK!!! HERE THEY ARE!!! GEEZ! After being harassed by a few friends, here are some pictures of the house. I don't have any of the outside (I'm never home at a good time to get the outdoors photos) but you'll get a good idea of what we're living in from these pictures. I'm only posting 3 right now - so as not to make it difficult for viewers still using dial-up.

Let me know what you think! The picture below is of our living room. Don't you just love the hardwood floors?! Bottom left: the dining room. Bottom right: kitchen - we love the funky blue color!

I'm still here...

No, I've not fallen off the face of the earth. I've just been otherwise occupied.

I do have pictures of the house and will have those up by the end of the week. I love our house! Right now, I've got the house to myself as Deedee left for Illinois on Monday. She'll be back on Friday, along with her sister (our other roommate) Meagan, their mother and their mother's friend - and no telling who else that's coming to help Meagan get settled in. This weekend will be a riot!

Especially when we have our "Stripping & Screwing Party" on Saturday. . . . . .

Ok, I'm sure you're thinking "WHAT THE...."

It's not what it seems! We've got to strip down my/our dining room chairs (all six of them) and then screw the legs on tight - they're a bit loose. Anyway - we've had a bit of fun asking everyone if they wanted to attend our "Stripping & Screwing Party". You can imagine some of the looks we've gotten!!!

Oh, one other thing.....they got me! The folks from my church got me good last week for my birthday. You know, I turned 30 this year, so I was hoping someone would make a big deal of it - and they did!

My cell group normally meets on Thursday, but due to some scheduling conflicts, we had to move our meeting last week to Wednesday - the same night of the Bible study we recently started at the church. So, no big deal, our group just wouldn't be able to attend the Bible study.

Well, our home group meeting begins and there are a couple of people in attendance who normally aren't there - that was really cool since I knew them and had been hoping they would come to one of our meetings. We begin discussing our topic and people keep showing up. Now, I'm thinking...."Wow! God is really moving! Thanks, Lord!" and at the same time "God, help me not say something stupid!!" It all seemed a bit strange, but I've seen God do some weird stuff. I must have re-capped our topic 5 times by the time the group from the church shows up at our meeting. Then I knew - they were all there for my birthday! I experienced a myriad of emotions - all the way from excitement to embarrassment (I don't like being the center of attention like that.) It was great - and I really felt special and loved! (Thanks to Deborah and all those who helped her pull that off!)

So the adventure continues. I'm thinking of starting another blog just about my roommates and our house. Could be a lot of fun! I'll let you know if I do!

Have a great day!

Quick post

Here is one of the pictures of my car. It's a little hard to see, but I wanted to "share" a little of my experience!

We will have internet access tomorrow, so I hope to post some pictures of our house! I'm so excited! However, I find that, given a choice, I would rather stay home - so I know it will be even harder to leave the house once I get internet access. There is so much to do online!!!

Well, I guess I'd better get to work! Have a great day!

Today is a good day!

How about this - today is my birthday, I have the best roommate in the world and my website has registered over 1,000 hits!
Alright!

My roommate, Deedee, is the greatest! This morning, I woke up to my dog barking as Deedee was leaving the house. Very early. I thought maybe she had an early staff meeting (she's a teacher) and didn't think much of it. As I'm outside with my dog, she rolls back into the driveway, jumps out of her car and says "Happy Birthday! Breakfast for the birthday girl!" She had gone to McDonald's and gotten me breakfast! How awesome is that! That's not all....I go to get into my car and come to work, and lo and behold, my car is all painted up! She had painted birthday messages all over my windshields! You know..."Honk, it's her birthday!" "Happy, Happy Birthday!" "Birthday girl!" I couldn't believe it. No one had ever done that to or for me! I love it! She called me as I was driving to work, and of course I had to threaten her - "You are so dead!" I said. She just laughed and asked me if anyone had honked at me yet.

What a way to start the day! It is a good day!

Another mile-marker

Well, folks - I'm all settled in (with the exception of a few things that still need to be put away)! Have I mentioned that I love my new house? Deedee and I are enjoying ourselves and have already had company over this past week! Meagan will be home in a few weeks and then we'll really find our "groove". I'm excited.

Tomorrow, I will be turning 30. Woohoo!!!! I am excited. I feel like I'm on the verge of something great - either for me personally or with some part of the many things in which I'm involved. I just have a sense of underlying excitement deep within. Have you ever experienced that? Only God knows the things He has in store for me over the next year, but I sure am looking forward to whatever it may be.

I know I said I would post pictures of the house, and I will, but it may be a couple of days. I haven't had an opportunity to borrow my dad's digital camera to take the pictures!!! I'm at my parent's house now, so I'll get it today. Updating this page will be easier once we get the internet service connected at the house.

Anyway, I guess I'll get off of here for now. We're about to have dinner and some birthday cake!! :) Yum, yum!

It is good to be home!

We are in! Well, at least Deedee and I are in! We absolutely love our house! I'll try to get some pictures this weekend so you can see, too! :)

It has been a long week. Since Sunday night, I haven't been to bed before 2 am until last night. I got to sleep a whole 2 hours longer! Moving is hard work, but the really tough part is getting everything in it's own place! I didn't realize how much junk I have!

Anyway, I hope to be a bit more regular with my posts, but I won't have internet connected at the house until next Thursday. Oh well....soon enough!

Now for something a little more uplifting: I was reading the Bible this morning and ran across a passage that was extremely comforting. In today's climate of political unrest, wars abroad and troubles in our daily lives, everyone needs something on which to hang their hope. At least I know I do. Hebrews 2:8 says:

"In putting everything under him (Jesus), God left nothing that is not subject to him. Yet at present, we do not see everything subject to him."

EVERYTHING is under the Jesus' control. Even though we don't see it right now, there is coming a day when it will be obvious to us all. I was just so encouraged when I read that. If you're having a rough time, have courage - Jesus is in control. If you don't see a way out of the situation, be strong - Jesus is in control of that situation. I don't know about you, but I really find that comforting.

I hope you all have a wonderful July 4th weekend. If you haven't read the Declaration of Independance do that sometime this weekend. It is truly inspiring. God bless you all!

I'll be back!

Well, as you know, we got our new house!!! Woohooo! I'll be out of touch for a few days as we move and I get my cable internet service connected. Yippee!

I'll be back online on Tuesday or Wednesday (Lord willing). Keep us in your prayers as Deedee and I get settled. We'll just be getting settled in when Meagan comes back home from Illinois with all of her furniture! It's going to be a busy month.

On top of all of this, I'll be turning 30 next Monday! This is an exciting time for me - I feel like I'm just getting started on the rest of my life.

Anyway, have a great weekend and I'll see you when I see you!

Blessings!

WE GOT IT!!!!!!!

Ok, I didn't sleep very well last night and I probably won't tonight either! We got the house we wanted!!!! Woohoo!!! Deedee and I are ecstatic. Meagan hasn't even seen the house yet, but is glad we finally have somewhere to live.

As soon as I can, I will post pictures of the house. This is going to be so good!

Now, let's see: I've got to pack, get folks to help move, get new curtains, rugs for the floors..........oh dear, it's going to be a long weekend!!!!!

Flattery does not get you everywhere....

"I'm going to make your car as pretty as you."

"Ok, thanks."

"You sure are a pretty lady."

"Thanks."

"Are you married?"..........."No"

"Dating anyone?"........."Uh, no."

"I sure would like to call you sometime."

(very awkward pause)

"Thank you?!"

No lie - this was an actual conversation from my life. It happened today. I must say, that's the first time I've ever been hit on like that. I did not know what to do.

There were several reasons why it would never happen, but for a split second I was way flattered! I mean, who doesn't want to hear that they are beautiful!? The only problem is, reality has a way of working itself into the picture.

Alas, I am no beauty queen, but for that instant someone considered me extra special. It was kinda nice!

Life is definitely interesting

Well, me and one of my future roommates are still waiting to see a house we are VERY interested in. By tomorrow, we'll know for sure whether or not we totally like the house - if we do, then hopefully we'll know by the end of this week if we got it! I'm so ready for this to be over! The good news is, if this doesn't work out, another option has opened up! I don't understand this journey called life, but at least I do know the destination!!!!

I tell you, in the midst of all of this, I am being challenged spiritually. Over the past few years, I've struggled with breaking through the barriers that "religion" imposed upon my life - and feel like I've come a long way in learning how to have a relationship with Christ- but there are more lessons to be learned.

I'm learning a different side of Grace and freedom in Christ. I don't think most Christians fully understand these things. I know I don't. It's kind of scary. It is amazingly.....free! But, there's also a fine line between having freedom in Christ and crossing over into sin. This is my struggle. Let me explain.

I have formed some incredible friendships over the past few months with people who come from different backgrounds than myself. I cannot begin to describe how excited I am. These folks are incredible people and have amazing relationships with God. However, they are in a different place in their relationship with Christ than I am. Not saying either place is better than the other - just different. I am learning a lot about myself and my relationship with Christ because of their friendship. My struggle is learning how to be with them and accept them for who they are without changing what I know is necessary to keep me in a right relationship with Christ. Does any of this make sense?

I don't want to hold on to an idea just because it's what I was taught to believe. However, I don't want to do things or begin to accept a different attitude about things just because someone else does it and is not convicted in their spirit about it. After all, they have a different walk with Christ than I do.

I guess what I'm coming to realize is that if I don't keep my eyes on Christ and my ear tuned to His voice, I could begin to falter. I could step out of line with God's will for my life, because I was too focused on someone else. For me, this means that I need to learn to accept people for who they are and accept where they are and not necessarily change who I am.

I do know this - I do not want to be "stuck" in one place. It's just that I want the changes in my life to occur at Christ's prompting and not Christy's.