It's a Snow Day!

Well, we got the snow that was predicted, which actually enabled me to stay at home the past two days. And what an amazing two days it has been.

Snow, snow, and more snow. I spent yesterday relaxing at home, curled up on the couch under a warm blanket, drinking a delicious cup of coffee, listening to music, and looking at pictures with my roomie, Dina. What a great opportunity to just learn a little bit more about this wonderful friend. We pretty much went through all of her pictures, which took about 4 hours. And as she gave the background behind the pictures taken with her youth group, with her bible study girls, with her friends from Goshen, and with her family, I just learned more about her and how many people are special to her. I not only thank God for this friend, but for all those people in her life who make her laugh, who have supported her, and who she can call friends and family. Though relationships change, some grow closer and others grow distant, they all contribute to the person she is. God has blessed her with just some amazing people in her life and has blessed us by placing her in our lives as well.
Today, is Valentine's Day. And as I was wishing some people a happy Valentine's Day, I hear something outside. I look out my window, and there is my amazingly wonderful brother-in-law, Amos clearing my driveway with a snowblower. I run outside to thank him and to talk to Jess and Grace who were waiting in the car as he did this for me. Such a wonderful blessing to have family who cares and loves me so much...to think of me and help me out. They are just a special and beautiful family.

Dina and I then spent some time just playing in the snow. I attempted to snowboard down my lawn, which wasn't too successful since I kept sinking into the 8 inches of snow we had :). But, Dina lifted me and my snowboard out and carried me to the top of the driveway, where I was able to do a little snowboarding "slowly" down to the road.
We made snow angels
and I tried to knock her down in the snow, but she just pushed me down and that was that :). What can I say..."I am fragile" :).

We went for a walk and just took in the sunny day and the bright snow that covered everything. It was extremely beautiful. It was just a great reminder of how beautiful God's creation is. Dina expresses it beautifully in her blog, link to the right. But I just couldn't help but share how much these past two days meant to me, and just how wonderful God is.

Thank you God for the blessings that surround us, for being in every moment, and for showing us how Great you are.

Bring on the Snow!

Good Monday morning everyone! I would just like to say, "Bring on the Snow!". Why? Because if snow leads to the fun times I had this weekend, than I can only be excited for it.

I spent a wonderful friday night with my beautiful sis and my adorable niece. We enjoyed a great dinner at Hacienda, followed by a relaxing night at their house talking and making warm chocolate chip cookies and eating them with a side of ice cream. It really doesn't get any better than that.

I spent the night and then woke up early saturday so we could get some things done. I booked my flight to Argentina in March...yea!!! and am excited about this upcoming experience and being able to share it with my beautiful friend Sarah. I took pictures of some sports items that could possibly be used as part of the decoration for my nephew's nursery. I made, what I think is the best cake ever, angel food cake, for the evening's event. It was just another amazing day with Jess and Grace as we got so much done and just spent time with each other listening to music and playing with Grace, whose laugh by the way can just warm your heart!!!

Saturday night, was amazing as it was a ladies' movie night. Alicia, Jess, Melanie, Jamie, and I gathered at Alicia's house to watch a few movies. We warmed up by curling up on the new couch, eating fondue and some delicious cooks pizza..but we didn't eat all that on the couch of course. Thanks Alicia for hosting. We all had a great time, especially when Jamie and I beat Alicia and Jess in a little game of bid euchre. Okay, I just had to throw that in :).

Then Sunday, after a good church service, Brian took me on my very first snowmobile ride. I can pretty much say I am addicted now :). I loved the trails and the way the snow looked as it covered everything.

They say that we are to get a lot more snow this week, which is exciting. Why? Because, no matter what the temperature or the weather is or whatever else we face, God provides those wonderful opportunities to spend time with great friends! And that is exciting!

Seasons

I stand in the middle of it all, feeling as if my life were in slow motion and all that is around me is in fast forward. The blurry images of life pass by as I stand there waiting for what may come next. This is the season of life I am in right now, trying to wait patiently for God to lead me to that next step, that next movement. As the excitement builds and as the anxiety of the unknown weighs on me, I find the comfort knowing that I am not in control. I find the peace that I am exactly where God wants me. So I accept the changes that surround me and stand in the stillness of my life, quieting my own desires, so that I may hear His...and thankful for each moment. For it is all created by God.

Genesis 1:31
God saw all that he had made, and it was very good.

The Light in My Life

Many of you know how important light is to me. I love candles! And I love to turn the lights on as soon as it gets just a little dark in my house. But that is just me! There is just something about light to me. It is safe. It is warm. It is revealing. A couple of nights ago I began to realize that lately, just as the days of sunlight seem to be getting shorter, so has the light in me. It has gotten dimmer and dimmer. It is gradually being covered by stress at work, by little frustrations here and there, by laziness, by selfishness, by life’s challenges. But it is still there, trying to shine bright enough to lead me to where I need to be, to where my focus needs to be. That light in me is like the whisper of God. It is that simple touch that is clear when I am silent and only listening, when my focus is once again on the only thing that matters…my relationship with Christ and what I can do for Him.

My relationship with Christ is a personal relationship, but there are those around me who do help that light shine brighter.

My niece laughs and I know that only God could create something so beautiful. My Bible study group teaches me.

My friends surround me.

My parents encourage me.

My sister asks how my scripture study is going, reminding me that I shouldn’t keep putting it off. And so I take the time to open the Bible and read.

I start studying Genesis. And God reaches me with one simple verse, reminding me to clear that clutter in my life to hear him, to let that light in me burn bright once again. I read, Genesis 1:3-5, “And God said, "Let there be light," and there was light. God saw that the light was good, and He separated the light from the darkness. God called the light "day," and the darkness he called "night." And there was evening, and there was morning—the first day.” The first day, God created light. He created hope.

A Great Gift!

All you gentlemen out there...I am going to make your day. I have discovered a great gift. And Valentine's Day is right around the corner. No more worrying about what to get her. No more endless confusion at the jewelry counter. No more trying to figure out how to top last year's gift. This is the gift of all gifts. It is sturdy and comes in different varieties. What is the item I am talking about? Drum roll please! It is none other than the one and only meat tenderizer.

(OXO Black-Handled Meat Tenderizer:To tenderize or flatten cutlets and breasts of chicken, this Meat Tenderizer is the ideal tool. The Oxo Good Grips handle is sized just right for a sure, firm grip. One side of the tenderizer is flat & one is textured.)

Okay, so maybe I am just directing this to my friend Brad. You see last night, I had a great dinner with my friends Ang, Brad, and Addison. I was close to where they lived and so I dropped in for a suprise visit, after I called of course. While there, they invited me to stay for dinner, which of course I did :). I had a great time watching Ang prepare dinner and helping her out by trying to make cornbread. While I worked on the cornbread, Ang worked on the main course. Her recipe called for her to pound some chicken flat. First attempt: use a rolling pin. That didn't quite work out as well as expected. So Ang remembers watching a chef on tv use a skillet. Second attempt: use a household skillet. So I am standing there watching this sweet girl (and if you know Ang, you know she doesn't look like someone who can hurt anything) slam down a skillet on this chicken. It is loud, and I am pretty sure the house is shaking. And though I am watching her and know what noise to expect each time the skillet makes contact with the chicken, I flinch every time. After beating up on the chicken a couple of times, she decides it is flat enough. Brad and Addison return to the kitchen since the loud noise has stopped. I stop laughing. We continue talking and cooking. And at the end of it all, we enjoyed a delicious dinner!

So Brad, a good gift for Ang might be a meat tenderizer :). For me, the great gift is the time I spend with this beautiful family. The great gift is their friendship and love. The great gift is the love that we can share with others. Thank you Ang, Brad, and Addison for your friendship. And thank you God for those opportunities to love one another! That is a Great Gift!

It was a Football weekend!

Friday Night!
I must share with you the wonderful event I attended on Friday night. It was the first annual Rookies' Redzone fantasy football awards banquet. It is now officially the end of the first season for the ladies' only league and I would just like to thank the great friends who participated! Get ready for next season! I look forward to the competition. Okay, so maybe not so much competition from me, but I do love coming up with interesting strategies! I had a great time and am thankful for great friends like you!

Sunday Night!

The playoff games were exciting and great to watch with good friends and good pizza and popcorn! And it was snowing!!! Finally!!! Can't feel much more like football season than that! I wonder how many people are going to post on the greatest Super Bowl match up coming in a few weeks. I only say "greatest" because my two favorite teams are in the Super Bowl. How crazy is that? Though I will definitely be cheering for the Bears, if, by chance, they lose, which they won't :), I would rather it be to the Colts than any one else. So Go Bears! Also, must give credit to the Colts owner and coach as they gave credit and praise to God. That is definitely nice to hear! Two great teams in the Super Bowl. That is what the Super Bowl is all about. Anyone have a free ticket for me?

Thank you God for everyday! Thank you for the friends in our lives and for the exciting events that just make life interesting.

Faaabulous!

No this isn't a post on food, though I am definitely a fan of food :). But it is a post on an amazing friend and roommate who is nothing short of faaabulous!

Dina is a beautiful friend who I learn something new about every day. I never knew how much stronger our friendship would be until she became my roommate. I have been fortunate to see the youth that she touches, the passion she has for ministry, and that crazy, quirky, fun-loving personality that we all love. But beyond that is her sincerity, her honesty, a heart that reaches out to others, her love, compassion, and encouragment to be shared with anyone who needs it, and just her "dina-ness".

She has encouraged me with our late night talks. She has inspired me with her involvement with youth and ministry. She has taught me so much and just held me accountable as well. She makes me laugh everyday! We all have friends in our life who touch our hearts. Thanks Dina for touching my heart and I thank God for the friendship we have. May He continue to bless you and continue filling you with the love that you so generously share with others.

Dina, Addikins, and Ang

Dina, Ang, and Jess (and the hotest wings ever!)

Coach Dina

Dina, Jess, and Sarah

Now she beat me to a post like this, but I had to wait to add some pictures :).

Bear Down

Couldn't beat being with friends this weekend, wearing the Bears jersey, and watching the Bears actually win their playoff game. What more could a girl ask for?

Okay, maybe for another win next week :).

This Hope I Give

I want to thank the wonderful family and friends in my life who just encourage me everyday. You have been such a blessing to me. For whatever comes my way I have hope. I have hope because of the love of Christ. And I have hope because I have been blessed with your love. So thank you!

This hope I give. My heart breaks as I received some devastating news from a good friend of mine in Indy. I sat here and cried, for that was all I could do. I am here, and she is there and I just want to be there for her and her family. I feel so far. I didn't know what to say to her. I couldn't say anything that would make everything okay. So I just offered her my hope. I don't know what the future holds for them or for anyone, but I have hope. I just pray that they let God hold them during this time and that they feel the hope and love that I have for them.

That is the amazing thing about God's love...it is endless...it never runs out. So share it with others. And share the hope it provides.

Psalm 136:4
to him who alone does great wonders, His love endures forever

Kings' Day 2007

Though I didn't put my shoes outside the door and fill them with hay for the wisemens' camels, I did have my kings' day gift under the tree. Thanks mom and dad! Jess and I once again celebrated this holiday with friends. We all stuffed ourselves with good mexican food, played some games, and of course topped the evening off with Scott's famous brownies! It was a fun-filled night and here are just a few of the pictures!

New Year

Welcome 2007! Just need to say how wonderful it was to spend time with family celebrating Christmas this past weekend. One of my favorite gifts this Christmas was this beautiful hat my niece, Rhi, made for me. Love it when someone is creative and shares that with others. Then spent a wonderful New Year's Eve with my good friend Sarah, and a couple of gentlemen. And though the Bear's lost, I had a great time with these friends, listening to music, playing a game, and having good conversation. It was a great start to the new year. And let me tell you about my sweet roommate Dina! Though we live together, our schedules are so busy that we rarely spend time with each other. But that changed yesterday as we spent the entire day together. She spoiled me with a great lunch at The Sandwich Cellar and a couple of intense games of checkers. We enjoyed some good music as we took down Christmas decorations in her classroom and watched some Wawasee basketball and gymnastics...followed by a trip to Dairy Queen. It was just a great start to 2007. Many people have made resolutions to do this or that...but you know what? This weekend was about opportunities. And that is what this year is about...opportunities. So I am going to look for those opportunities to give, to love, to experience, and to grow. Here is to another year of adventures.

Future Tradition

I would like to take this time to thank a special friend who has created a wonderful memory for me, a memory that has developed into a future tradition. Thank you Sue for teaching me so much, especially taking the time to show me the special touches of making an apple pie. I enjoyed that time we shared as we worked together and as you taught me the basics of baking. That time with you meant so much to me. And though we may never share that experience again, it is something that will stay with me.

It was such a special memory that I wanted to share it with my sister and niece. I know my sister will do her always wonderful job describing the night, but I just wanted to say thank you to the friend who help create this tradition.
Last night Jess, Grace, and I made our first apple pie together. And though we discovered the importance of patience and though the kitchen looked like a virtual war zone, I was so thankful for that time with my girls...baking an apple pie, creating memories, creating a tradition. I look forward to next year!

Gift of Love

Ephesians 5:2
and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

An expression of love for a special couple that united in marriage, and who understands the importance of keeping Christ the center of their love.

Waiting

Last night I shared with my bible study group a few scripture verses that really spoke to me. We have talked before how we sometimes bargain with God, how we want undisputable proof that He is there, that He wants us to do something...we just want a sign sometimes. We begin to question ourselves and we question God. Sometimes a little doubt exists. Sometimes fear gets the better of us. Sometimes we let life's struggles discourage us.

In Judges 6:15-18 I see that doubt, that questioning in Gideon. It states, "But Lord", Gideon asked, "how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family." The LORD answered, "I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites together." Gideon replied, "If now I have found favor in your eyes, give me a sign that it is really you talking to me. Please do not go away until I come back and bring my offering and set it before you." And the LORD said, "I will wait until you return."

The Lord said he will wait! I was amazed at the patience the Lord had with Gideon and I am sure the Lord has with me. As I battle the doubt, He is waiting patiently for me to return to Him. As I question His calling, He is waiting patiently for me to return to Him. As I get burdened with life's struggles, He is waiting patiently for me to return to Him.

What a message of Hope!

God is Amazing!

Wow! GOD IS AMAZING! How can we doubt? Thanks Dina for the amazing experience last night!

You see, last night Dina took me down the road to see the Northern Lights. I have always wanted to see them, but never thought I could see them from here. It was such a clear night! we pulled off on a side road, got out of the car, and just stood there watching the sky with the bluish/greenish haze. Streaks of blue and green would shoot up towards the center of the sky. It was like our own personal light show. It was beautiful! It was one of those moments where you wish you had a camera, but knew that no picture could ever really capture that moment, those feelings of awe, and the colors that were present. It was one of those moments where you realize how amazing God is, and how beautiful His creation is. It was one of those moments where I thought of nothing, wanted to be no where else, but there.

GOD IS AMAZING!

Stop

Last night after meeting up with a friend, I had the unique opportunity to come home early in the evening. Some how my week nights get filled with late meetings, choir practices, bible study, dinners with friends, or other evening activities that seem to come up. But last night I was home at 6:00 with nothing planned or nothing I had to run off and accomplish. And on top of that, you guessed it, it was raining. For a moment I thought about what I could get done at home, or maybe turning on the tv to see what might be on. But instead, I grabbed a book and since we are having this unusual warm weather in the middle of december, decided to enjoy the rain a bit on my porch. I sat there trying to keep my book from getting too soaked, but reading and at the same time enjoying all the sounds the rain makes as it hits the ground, the porch, the cars, the houses, the road. When it became apparent that my book was getting a little on the damp side, I decided to retreat back into the house. I laid my book out on the table so that it would dry and grabbed a blanket and curled up on the couch. There, through my sliding glass doors, I watched the small storm pass over. There were a few spots of lightning and sounds of thunder, but the rain was constant. Then it just stopped. Just like that, the storm was over and there was a break from the rain.

So why am I rambling about the rain and this experience yesterday. Because if I hadn't taken the opportunity to just stop moving, working, running around, I would have missed out on one of the most calming and enjoyable experiences I have had. I can't plan the storms, but I can take the time to enjoy them. I am one of those people who likes to be busy, getting things done, meeting with friends, but sometimes it is just nice to stop, do nothing, and just enjoy the moment!

Birthday Celebration!

What another amazing week. Most people know how much I love birthdays...in fact, I usually plan something every night of the week of my birthday so that it can be a week long celebration. So this past week was a busy week for me, from dinner with friends, a wonderful youth conference in Indy, dinner at Palomino's and Buca's, shopping with the greatest sister, dinner at the Boathouse, a great musical in Warsaw with friends, to being a proud aunt and watching the cutest little sheep (Grace of course) in the children's Christmas play at Union Center. It was just an amazing week and an amazing birthday. It has been an amazing year! Who would have thought after all I have been through, that I could say that. But honestly, I have never felt more at peace with where my life is. My life is no where near perfect, but I find comfort knowing that I am not in control. I find comfort knowing that God is in my life, leading me down the road He has prepared. I find strength in the friends who surround me. I find love in the family, especially my amazing sister, who encourage me and who love me for who I am. I am excited about this next year in my life and the years to come, because I no longer feel lost, but feel at home.

It is perfect that Grace played a sheep, because I felt like that lost sheep before, But this past year, God found me and I can't think of any better reason to celebrate!

Matthew 18:12-14
What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off? And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he is happier about that one sheep than about the ninety-nine that did not wander off. In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should be lost.

The Answer is a Question!

Recently I shared with my Bible study group that I found myself skimming Judges, rather than really reading it. So I started all over again to take the time to really study it. Thankfully I did, because today I came across such a powerful question. A question that I missed during my previously rushed reading time. Within the scripture verse Judges 4:14 is the question, "Has not the LORD gone ahead of you?" This question seemed to be an answer I have been looking for.

When I think I am alone and no one really understands what I am going through. God is always with me and He is leading the way.

When I can't seem to find the courage to do something, God is always with me and He is leading the way.

When I find myself lost and confused, God is always with me and He is leading the way.

When I begin to worry and want to start planning my own future, I can find comfort knowing that God is always with me and He is leading the way.

With the world changing all around me, the one thing I can count on, the one thing that remains the same today and tomorrow...God is always with me and He is leading the way.

I hope you find the strength and confidence in this question that I have found...the strength to trust in the Lord always and the confidence to really make the choice to follow the One who is always with us and who is leading the way.

Family!...It's A Long One!

I have been thinking a lot about my family recently. I am so thankful that I live right down the road from my sis and brother-in-law and their family. Everyone knows how close we are. Our blogs even show how close we are. But as much as I love them, and as special as my relationship with my sister is, I find myself thinking about the rest of my family.

Seeing my brother, niece, and nephew this weekend was definitely a highlight of thanksgiving. There isn't a lot in common between all of us, but we always have fun when we are together, and I always look forward to seeing them! My brother is an amazing man. He is definitely accomplished, but most importantly, he is a good father. He has introduced his son and daughter to so much and makes time for them. He doesn't just drop them off at each of their games, but cheers them on. He may have a great house, a great job, work at being proficient at all of his many hobbies, but in my eyes he is a good father. My nephew and niece are growing up way too fast! I am just amazed at how their personalities are growing and changing. They are helpful, creative, smart, athletic, funny, and just great young adults!

Cute little Grace ended up giving Jess and I her deathly cold this weekend. Okay, not so deathly, but not a big fan of being sick! I spent all of Monday curled up in bed trying to breathe, trying to make my head stop throbbing. And as I laid there I thought about how much I missed my parents. I could have used mom's miracle grilled cheese sandwiches that she always made when we were sick and that always seemed to make us feel better. I could have used dad's big chair as we would sit with him watching great shows like M.A.S.H, Magnum P.I., etc...feeling safe knowing we would feel better soon.

I know I have mentioned family a lot recently, but it is just hard to get across how special they are me. Maybe it is the holiday season that is making me think about them often, or maybe it is finally realizing just how special my family is. Either way, I love them and they are on my mind and in my heart. I know we all have family that may not live close enough to see very often, but it just means that we cherish the time we do spend with them that much more!

Just had to share how special these people are!

Requests

Do you have those people in your life that you always turn to for assistance?...that you always count on to provide for you? Jess wrote a wonderful post on my parents and how giving they are. And as I was contemplating her post and my prayers lately, I realized that I had gotten into the "request" rut. I have taken those "relationships" for granted.

What was the last thing I have done for my parents? Even during their short visit, and after they provided us with so much, I actually made a request that they keep their eyes open for a particular item that I have been looking for. Who does that? Why couldn't I just be so grateful for all they have done and instead of making a request, turn the tables around and ask what they needed?

And in regards to my relationship with God, why have my prayers turned into request times. I examined my prayer this morning to find out that my requests far outweigh any praise I give Him. Have I made this about me instead of Him? How could I ever think I knew what was best for me or the world better than God?

The question should be what can I do for you?...rather that what can you do for me?...or what can I get? It is about trusting God enough to know that He will provide and take care of us so that we can fully open our hearts and lives to Him to be used to fulfill His will, not ours.

So I end this post with a couple more requests, because it is such a hard habit to break :)...Ask yourself, what can I do for those who do so much for me...and do it! Most importantly, let God handle the worries we have and the direction of our lives as he has proven to be trustworthy all along, so that we can be servants of God with a heart that asks..."What can I do for you?"

Opportunities

This past weekend, while watching football, a commercial caught my attention and presented a wonderful opportunity. You see lately, my amazing sister who seems to be able to do everything, has found herself tired and a little stressed studying for an extremely difficult accounting test working towards her master's. I know she has a lot on her plate, but I have been impressed at how she remembers the important things…spending time with her completely supportive husband, interacting with her adorable daughter, taking the time to talk to me about anything, going to choir practice, being active in our bible study. As tired as she is and as busy as she is, she keeps the time and love she has for her family, friends, and church in the forefront. She has her priorities straight and that is such a wonderful example to see. I knew I wanted to do something special for her and when I saw this commercial for Stomp, I knew that was it. Monday after rearranging our schedules a bit, I purchased the tickets and informed her that Tuesday night I wanted to spend time with her. It was the perfect timing because she was taking the test on Monday and would not have to study. Keeping it a surprise was the difficult part, as many of you know I am terrible with secrets.

So last night we saw Stomp! And it was completely and unbelievably amazing! The rhythm throughout the whole show moved us and just brought so much energy to the night. We sat their in awe of the talent and of the ability of the performers to entertain us, to distract us from all that we face and have to do, if only for a short time. It was one of the best shows I have seen…and maybe that is because of the company I was with. But, it was a great opportunity...an opportunity that I am so thankful for.

Thanks to the parents for introducing us to the arts so that we may develop that appreciation. Thanks to the performers who share their talents with us. Thanks to my sis for being an example. Thanks to God for creating opportunities such as these.

Respect

What an amazing trip to New York. It was a trip filled with community service, site seeing, and just a lot of realizations. After a 16 hour train ride with 9 youth and 3 other adults, we finally arrived to NYC hauling our bags on and off the subway, through busy streets, until we finally reached our hostel. After taking a few minutes to freshen up, we headed to Time Square. And that was the beginning of our trip. From then on the kids spent the next few days looking up at the tall buildings, taking pictures of everything that they could...statues, buildings, lights, street performers, subway trains, everything that they were amazed to see. It was fun for me to see the amazement in their eyes and to hear them talking about all that they have experienced. But, for me, out of everything we saw, it was the community service and the group I was with that made my second trip to NYC unbelievable. We went with a purpose, not just to see NYC, but to serve. And that is what we did. The memories I will carry with me are of the homeless man I gave food to, the mittens I sewed (yes, I actually sewed mom ;), and the many other youth from FYI that we visited in order to learn about their philanthropic efforts throughout the city. It was great to see other youth outside of our own county, our own state, helping others and making a difference because they want to...to see that passion was just inspiring and actually brought about a feeling of hope. All in all the trip was about respect...respect for each other...respect for our communities...and respect for the world we live in.

A Change in Perspective

"In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." - Matthew 5:16




365 days of creating a habit! 365 days of opening my heart! 365 days of being led by God and not my own desires! For those of you who might have done some investigative work into my past posts (Hint: October 2005) would have found that last year, at this time, I challenged myself. The challenge was to reach out to someone every day. To stop focusing on my own needs and wants but to change my "outlook" and actually see those around me, friends, family, strangers, and their needs...the ways I could help them...the ways I could be a servant rather than the one expecting to be served. It was last year that I realized that the goals I set for my life were based on ways for me to get praise and recognition when all praise goes to God, the One who works through us. I realized that the valuable thing my life could be used for is to touch just one heart...to truly reach out to someone so that they can see and feel the love of Christ.

Out of all the lessons I have learned this past year, the most important lesson has been that of faith and trust in Christ. Each day, He guided my heart and showed me all that I can do for others, with His help. I went into this challenge wondering how I could help others when I don't have many skills, talents, or even an understanding of how I could be used, but He prepared the way each day. Just wait and see...a simple phrase that has been a large part of this experience. Nothing I did throughout the year was planned. I put trust in God that He would show me those opportunities. I had to just wait and see. And it is amazing all I have seen.

I have kept a journal each day of the ways that I reached out to others and as I flip through the pages, I can't do anything but give all the credit to the One who works through me.

It has been 365 days and that is something to celebrate! I know I built up your expectations for this post and sincerely hope you have not been let down, but this year has been amazing. This challenge has been such a large part of my days and something I just had to share with you.


I know a year isn't a long time, and the acts I have done have been small, but I will continue striving to look outside myself every day and reach out to those around me. I will continue trusting in Christ knowing that He is guiding me. I will do all that I can to continue fighting my own selfishness to have a servant heart. And hopefully, one day, God will use me to reach that one heart.

One year down and a lifetime to go!

One Plus

Tomorrow is the day! What could it be? What is so important about tomorrow? Hmmm, I mentioned possibly providing a hint. What can I say that wouldn't give it a way too easily? I guess the only thing I can say is that you all have the opportunity to figure it out if you change your "outlook".

Still don't know....just wait and see...

Four Plus, Three Plus, Two Plus

Yes, I had to combine the countdown since I don't post during the weekend. So I figured this post could cover those days as well. Since it is to cover so many days, I thought I would share with you some guesses from a smart person in my life...guesses that make me smile. So enjoy!

I know, I know. Your bathroom will be finished!!! You will have a dishwasher installed!! An elevator will be put in for me at your house!! Green concrete is being poured so you don't have to mow!! Your garage will be clean?? You are getting cable tv??

I can guarantee that the future post will be on something more important than these, but since it is out in the open...if any of you want to accomplish these tasks for me, just let me know ;)...just kidding.

What could be more important than getting accomplished what is listed above?....Just wait and see...

Five Plus

Well, there have been some more interesting guesses! Though a post on halloween would be interesting and exciting for others, and I am sure you all know how much I "love" halloween (said sarcastically), I can definitely state with confidence, that my upcoming post will not be on halloween ;).

Good guesses that make me laugh! And some of you are trying to get it out of my sis (stay strong Jess! I am counting on you ;). You may think it is impossible to guess what the future post will be about, but I can assure you that it isn't.

Maybe I will give a hint...just wait and see...

Six Plus

I have heard some pretty good and funny guesses so far, particularly from someone whose name I will not mention, but you know who you are ;).

Will I be able to clearly explain?....Just wait and see...

Seven Plus

Did anyone notice that I skipped 8? Don't worry, I can count...sometimes. Thanks to a Melanie, I decided I needed to move up the exciting event by a day because I will be in New York City during the actual momentous occasion. Maybe that was a hint, maybe not...but if by chance you figure it out, congratulations and keep it to yourself ;).

If you still haven't figured it out....just wait and see...

Nine Plus

And the count down begins....

How will I ever be able to put into words? Just wait and see...

Giving

Breakthrough news to share with you. Last night I spent the evening with a good friend, ate some good food, and watched an incredible, yet stressful, football game...Go Bears! On my way home I was thinking. Here I enjoyed myself and ended up spending money in the process. Yes, I had a great time. Yes, I would do it again. But what was I really doing? A few weeks ago I shared with you my struggle with tithing and I can't thank each one of you enough for your words, prayers, and encouragement. As an update for you, I did tithe the first week in October. But last night, I realized that I should and that I wanted to tithe more. Here I am enjoying myself and just blessed with all God provides. I spend money here and there, but I have trouble finding money to tithe? I have trouble giving God what is His to begin with? There is just something wrong with that statement. In a way, I have been putting my needs and wants before God. And then making excuses for not being able to tithe. Well, I am done with that. Don't get me wrong, I am still going to enjoy myself, but I am going to give God what is His. So I am going to tithe again this month. And I am excited about this decision. I love realizations like these that really change perspectives...and create outcomes!

Just had to share...

Daily Blessings

Psalm 118:24
This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

My sis has a wonderful blog, entitled daily blessings. It is a blog that shares with us the blessings she sees in her every day life. Today is another Monday, and after my morning routine of dragging myself out of bed, listening to the news, driving to work, and looking at the list on my desk of things I hope to tackle today, her blog came to mind. Why? Because it is another Monday and I caught myself in that Monday mood. You know where you are just "blah" because the weekend is over and you have a whole week before the weekend comes again. So I thought about her blog and thought what better way to get out of this Monday mood then to share the blessings I had this past weekend, but also look forward to the blessings today brings, and tomorrow, and the next day.

First, Friday I had an amazing visit from my sis and Grace at work. They even brought me two dozen cookies ;) and I just loved the surprise visit! Then that evening I spent time with some good friends, enjoying a great dinner, a few haunted houses, and just driving around the area. Saturday I was lucky enough to be able to visit with the Frye's before Amos' football game, then I house sat for a bit ;)...ran a few errands and actually spent time at the park by the lake. Couldn't have asked for a more beautiful day...okay, maybe if it was just a bit warmer! Finished the evening visiting with some wonderful ladies! Sunday included another wonderful church service followed by a little bit of football!

and today....

Well, today's blessings so far include a good conversation with my roommate this morning, having a job I do enjoy, a co-worker bringing in donuts for all of us, the gloves that I remembered to bring today because it is a bit cold in the office ;), a great email from my sister, ....the Bear's game tonight ;), etc....and just the fact that I remembered to think about the blessings in my life...and the blessings that today holds...and tomorrow...and the next day...

Hope you find the time to think about all the blessings in your life! Thanks Jess for that reminder!

Water

WATER

Peaceful, Cleansing, Powerful, Energy, Refreshing, Needed, Pure, Movement, ....Satisfying

Every Detail

This weekend was definitely a busy weekend for me. But something happened, that I just had to share! I had the amazing opportunity to enjoy the beautiful day on Friday. After meeting my sister for lunch, I walked around a park taking pictures of the changing leaves, watching people walk by, and just enjoying the nice day. As I was taking pictures, I once again felt small. I was surrounded by large trees that tower over everything. As I focused on a group of leaves intertwined around one of the branches, I felt as one of those leaves, a small part of the big picture. I stood there just looking around at all that surrounded me, and I realized something. Each of those leaves contributes to the beauty of the tree, of the view. Each leaf was different. And that is what amazed me. I was amazed at what God created. He took care of every detail. He took the time to design each of those leaves...and as much care as He took on that landscape, He has taken that much if not more care on each one of us. As small as I felt at that moment, I felt special! I felt cared for! I felt as though I was designed for a purpose!...Because God took care of every detail!

History...Wake Me Up Please...

I have definitely not been one to get excited about history. Occasionally there are a few past events or people that capture my attention, but for the most part, history does not excite me too much. This morning I came to a realization. While studying Joshua, I read the chapters that list in detail, and in length, the distribution of the land the Israelites controlled after the many battles they fought. Chapter after chapter and page after page were names I really couldn't pronounce...which makes it a bit difficult to understand, unless I made some sort of diagram. That is an idea actually, but not really where I am going with this post.

There are few people, such as myself, who enjoy reading the stories of miracles, love, forgiveness, sacrifice....the life of Christ. But when it comes to the nitty gritty parts of the Bible, the family lines and ancestry, the battles, the division of land, etc...I tend to begin to skim, hoping that when I turn the page I get past the "boring" part to an interesting story or adventure. But, I realized I have missed out on a lot by doing this.

I realized as I read the list of kings the Israelites defeated and I read about the division of land, that though I get confused and may not be able to really remember the names, that just as the "miracle" stories, this history is important! I learned about how the Israelites followed God's commands and instructions. I learned about their human fears and doubts. I learned that God delivered their enemies to them so that they may receive the land He had promised. I learned that God is faithful! I learned that God provides! I learned that the Bible is about more than miracles, and all the "interesting" stories, but about love, promises, and history that reveals the past, a past that helps us understand the present and the future!

Hebrews 13:8
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever

Trust

Trust is such a difficult concept if you really think about it. Sometimes, like love, it is used too liberally...sometimes people just say it without really trusting. Sometimes I say it without really trusting. I don't know, it is just something I have been thinking about this past week. Mostly because I have an area of weakness that I need to face with trust. I have been working on really strengthening my faith...really being open to what God is teaching me, and really striving to give Him total control of my life. I have been learning about all the promises He has fulfilled in the past. I see the wonderful things He is doing in my life and in the world.

Yet, I still haven't been able to tithe.

Yes, through all that I have seen and experienced, I still hold on to my financial situation rather than trusting enough in Christ to give Him what is His. Thankfully, I have some wonderful friends who encourage me. They challenge me by reminding me that it is all about trusting God.

I have a friend who is a parent. And as a loving, caring, parent he/she worries about the safety and security of his/her child. Though I have no idea what it must feel like to be a parent and care for a child, I know that trust must be in Christ.

We all have areas in our life where we are weak in trusting in Christ. So I share this with you not only to hold myself more accountable, but as as a challenge.

How much do you trust God with?

One day, I hope my actions and my response to this question will be....EVERYTHING!