It's been a while since a song has moved me to tears. The hard tears. Yesterday, it was this one and it's on eternal repeat now. I love to know how much Grace I truly walk in and it's nice to have these daily reminders.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Graduation Day
This will certainly be a day to remember. So many people say "Didn't it seem like you just started yesterday?" UM......NO!!! It seems like I have been doing this all of my life! Okay....just 5 years to get a 2 year degree....but I had a family to raise, had to work, moved into a new home, went through various illnesses, took care of the other 4 in my house when they were ill, and just overall, did a lot over the past 5 years. I'm so excited to have this chapter completed.
Graduation was held at ORU Mabee Center. I'm the one in the blue square hat! And I must add...this is the same place that my high school graduation was held, as well as the same color caps and gowns.
Yep...that's me.
Ah! Two of my best friends showed up. Love them! Couldn't imagine this day without them.
My friend Lindsay came. She's been a huge support through this whole deal. As well as huge help early in the mornings when I couldn't take the kids to school. She was always there. Even when I forgot to call.
Ah!!!! The 5 of us! Okay...have to say, the kids did NOT want to go to this! But as a parent, I did my duty and forced them. I loved having them there seeing their mom finally accomplish this dream. (anyone else notice how TALL Ian is? What happened???)
My mom and dad came to show their support. (My dad showing his new teeth too! LOL)
Well....that man was the guest speaker. Um....all I remember is blah blah blah blah. Followed by a lot of nothing.
Emilie takes every opportunity to have her picture taken with me. She loves her momma!
The love of my life! I bet at this point he was thinking....."I'M SO GLAD THIS IS OVER"
Graduation was held at ORU Mabee Center. I'm the one in the blue square hat! And I must add...this is the same place that my high school graduation was held, as well as the same color caps and gowns.
Yep...that's me.
Ah! Two of my best friends showed up. Love them! Couldn't imagine this day without them.
My friend Lindsay came. She's been a huge support through this whole deal. As well as huge help early in the mornings when I couldn't take the kids to school. She was always there. Even when I forgot to call.
Ah!!!! The 5 of us! Okay...have to say, the kids did NOT want to go to this! But as a parent, I did my duty and forced them. I loved having them there seeing their mom finally accomplish this dream. (anyone else notice how TALL Ian is? What happened???)
My mom and dad came to show their support. (My dad showing his new teeth too! LOL)
Well....that man was the guest speaker. Um....all I remember is blah blah blah blah. Followed by a lot of nothing.
Emilie takes every opportunity to have her picture taken with me. She loves her momma!
The love of my life! I bet at this point he was thinking....."I'M SO GLAD THIS IS OVER"
I know he's proud of me. Now he'll be more proud when he doesn't have to work so much to support my education habits! Now I can work and let him rest! :o)
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
He's still working on me....
We used to sing this song when I was a little girl:
He's still working on me to make me what I ought to be.
It took Him just a week to make the moon and stars,
The sun and the earth and Jupiter and Mars.
How loving and patient He must be, He's still working on me.
It's amazing to me how long He is going to keep on working:o) I look at what I've gone through in life. The good and the bad, happy and sad, and yet, He has always remained with me. I've let Him down....more often than I'd like, but His patience still amazes me.
Today He worked on me again, and I don't want to let Him down. Sometimes you have to put away your own selfish desires to do the work God put you here to do. He has blessed me with many gifts and talents in my life and I want to use those gifts to glorify Him. He presents me with opportunites that I am drawn to, but yet, makes me sacrifice in other areas.
Does it sound weird to say that today is one of those days.....I feel like a grown up, making grown up decisions, and grown up sacrifices.
Phillippians 2:1-14
If you've gotten anything at all out of following Christ,
if his love has made any difference in your life,
if being in a community of the Spirit means anything to you,
if you have a heart, if you care— then do me a favor:
Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends.
Don't push your way to the front; don't sweet-talk your way to the top.
Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead.
Don't be obsessed with getting your own advantage.
Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand.
Think of yourselves the way Christ Jesus thought of himself.
He had equal status with God but didn't think so much of himself that he had to cling to the advantages of that status no matter what. Not at all.
When the time came, he set aside the privileges of deity and took on the status of a slave, became human!
Having become human, he stayed human.
It was an incredibly humbling process.
He didn't claim special privileges.
Instead, he lived a selfless, obedient life and then died a selfless, obedient death—and the worst kind of death at that—a crucifixion.
Because of that obedience, God lifted him high and honored him far beyond anyone or anything, ever, so that all created beings in heaven and on earth—even those long ago dead and buried—will bow in worship before this Jesus Christ, and call out in praise that he is the Master of all, to the glorious honor of God the Father.
What I'm getting at, friends, is that you should simply keep on doing what you've done from the beginning.
When I was living among you, you lived in responsive obedience.
Now that I'm separated from you, keep it up. Better yet, redouble your efforts.
Be energetic in your life of salvation, reverent and sensitive before God. That energy is God's energy, an energy deep within you, God himself willing and working at what will give him the most pleasure.
Do everything readily and cheerfully—no bickering, no second-guessing allowed!
Go out into the world uncorrupted, a breath of fresh air in this squalid and polluted society.
Provide people with a glimpse of good living and of the living God.
Carry the light-giving Message into the night so I'll have good cause to be proud of you on the day that Christ returns. You'll be living proof that I didn't go to all this work for nothing.
He's still working on me to make me what I ought to be.
It took Him just a week to make the moon and stars,
The sun and the earth and Jupiter and Mars.
How loving and patient He must be, He's still working on me.
It's amazing to me how long He is going to keep on working:o) I look at what I've gone through in life. The good and the bad, happy and sad, and yet, He has always remained with me. I've let Him down....more often than I'd like, but His patience still amazes me.
Today He worked on me again, and I don't want to let Him down. Sometimes you have to put away your own selfish desires to do the work God put you here to do. He has blessed me with many gifts and talents in my life and I want to use those gifts to glorify Him. He presents me with opportunites that I am drawn to, but yet, makes me sacrifice in other areas.
Does it sound weird to say that today is one of those days.....I feel like a grown up, making grown up decisions, and grown up sacrifices.
Phillippians 2:1-14
If you've gotten anything at all out of following Christ,
if his love has made any difference in your life,
if being in a community of the Spirit means anything to you,
if you have a heart, if you care— then do me a favor:
Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends.
Don't push your way to the front; don't sweet-talk your way to the top.
Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead.
Don't be obsessed with getting your own advantage.
Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand.
Think of yourselves the way Christ Jesus thought of himself.
He had equal status with God but didn't think so much of himself that he had to cling to the advantages of that status no matter what. Not at all.
When the time came, he set aside the privileges of deity and took on the status of a slave, became human!
Having become human, he stayed human.
It was an incredibly humbling process.
He didn't claim special privileges.
Instead, he lived a selfless, obedient life and then died a selfless, obedient death—and the worst kind of death at that—a crucifixion.
Because of that obedience, God lifted him high and honored him far beyond anyone or anything, ever, so that all created beings in heaven and on earth—even those long ago dead and buried—will bow in worship before this Jesus Christ, and call out in praise that he is the Master of all, to the glorious honor of God the Father.
What I'm getting at, friends, is that you should simply keep on doing what you've done from the beginning.
When I was living among you, you lived in responsive obedience.
Now that I'm separated from you, keep it up. Better yet, redouble your efforts.
Be energetic in your life of salvation, reverent and sensitive before God. That energy is God's energy, an energy deep within you, God himself willing and working at what will give him the most pleasure.
Do everything readily and cheerfully—no bickering, no second-guessing allowed!
Go out into the world uncorrupted, a breath of fresh air in this squalid and polluted society.
Provide people with a glimpse of good living and of the living God.
Carry the light-giving Message into the night so I'll have good cause to be proud of you on the day that Christ returns. You'll be living proof that I didn't go to all this work for nothing.
In moments like these....
Is is Monday? No wait...it's Wednesday....but really it's my Saturday because I go to work on Friday which really is my Monday. Did you catch that? Whew!
Ever have mornings that just don't start out right? Today was that for me and I just had to laugh. I had a hard time waking up to go workout, but I did. About 1/2 way through my workout, it dawned on me...."I forgot my clothes to change into". Then that thought came over me...is this how my morning is going to go? Well, then a few other things happned and well...the answer is yes. This IS how my day is going to go.
So much so that I can only laugh about it.
I sat down and prayed, opened my Bible, and God sent me to this from Proverbs 21:31 "The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but deliverance and victory are of the Lord."
Okay....well...there ya have it. Guess I will go out and start my Saturday with that in mind. :o)
Ever have mornings that just don't start out right? Today was that for me and I just had to laugh. I had a hard time waking up to go workout, but I did. About 1/2 way through my workout, it dawned on me...."I forgot my clothes to change into". Then that thought came over me...is this how my morning is going to go? Well, then a few other things happned and well...the answer is yes. This IS how my day is going to go.
So much so that I can only laugh about it.
I sat down and prayed, opened my Bible, and God sent me to this from Proverbs 21:31 "The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but deliverance and victory are of the Lord."
Okay....well...there ya have it. Guess I will go out and start my Saturday with that in mind. :o)
Friday, May 07, 2010
It's THAT day!!!
I began a journey in 2005 that completes itself today and sets me forth to another journey in the future.
Many things got in my way over these past few years and caused me to stumble, but I stood strong, and I stood tall, and fought against it....and with God's help, I did it!
One of my all time favorite songs to inspire me is "The Power of a Dream" This is one of the songs that helped me in making a decision to go forward with my education. When I thought i couldn't do it, I sang this song over and over.....along with a lot of other songs. (one day will arrange this for some kids to sing *in a different key.... The lyrics are incredible!)
Deep within each heart, There lies a magic spark
That lights the fire of our imagination
And since the dawn of man, The strength of just "I can"
Has brought together people of all nations
There's nothing ordinary, In the living of each day
There's a special part , Every one of us will play
Feel the flame forever burn, Teaching lessons we must learn
To bring us closer to the power of the dream
As the world gives us its best, To stand apart from all the rest
It is the power of the dream that brings us here
Your mind will take you far, The rest is just pure heart
You'll find your fate is all your own creation
Every boy and girl, As they come into this world
They bring the gift of hope and inspiration
There's so much strength in all of us
Every woman child and man
It's the moment that you think you can't
You'll discover that you can
The power of the dream
The faith in things unseen
The courage to embrace your fear
No matter where you are
To reach for your own star
To realize the power of the dream
To realize the power of the dream
I relized the power of God and the dreams that He had given me were within my reach. Now that I'm done, I look forward to reaching for more goals and dreams that he will place in front of me. I think we have a God of endless possibilites and endless dreams. I want to take what I have learned and put it to use for HIS glory, not mine, not mans, but all His Glory. In everything I do I want others to see that I will use this accomplishment for His glory.
And on Graduation day today...I cleaned out all the papers and note cards, etc. This was just from the last 2 semesters!!!
Many things got in my way over these past few years and caused me to stumble, but I stood strong, and I stood tall, and fought against it....and with God's help, I did it!
One of my all time favorite songs to inspire me is "The Power of a Dream" This is one of the songs that helped me in making a decision to go forward with my education. When I thought i couldn't do it, I sang this song over and over.....along with a lot of other songs. (one day will arrange this for some kids to sing *in a different key.... The lyrics are incredible!)
Deep within each heart, There lies a magic spark
That lights the fire of our imagination
And since the dawn of man, The strength of just "I can"
Has brought together people of all nations
There's nothing ordinary, In the living of each day
There's a special part , Every one of us will play
Feel the flame forever burn, Teaching lessons we must learn
To bring us closer to the power of the dream
As the world gives us its best, To stand apart from all the rest
It is the power of the dream that brings us here
Your mind will take you far, The rest is just pure heart
You'll find your fate is all your own creation
Every boy and girl, As they come into this world
They bring the gift of hope and inspiration
There's so much strength in all of us
Every woman child and man
It's the moment that you think you can't
You'll discover that you can
The power of the dream
The faith in things unseen
The courage to embrace your fear
No matter where you are
To reach for your own star
To realize the power of the dream
To realize the power of the dream
I relized the power of God and the dreams that He had given me were within my reach. Now that I'm done, I look forward to reaching for more goals and dreams that he will place in front of me. I think we have a God of endless possibilites and endless dreams. I want to take what I have learned and put it to use for HIS glory, not mine, not mans, but all His Glory. In everything I do I want others to see that I will use this accomplishment for His glory.
And on Graduation day today...I cleaned out all the papers and note cards, etc. This was just from the last 2 semesters!!!
Thursday, May 06, 2010
National Day of Prayer
I love that we have something called "National Day of Prayer". I do believe that we should all spend a certain time everyday in prayer to God, but for those that don't, this is a good National reminder.
My most precious moments everyday are when I'm talking to God. It's my quiet time. And sometimes, it's not so quite....if He's speaking loud enough. I don't have a routine of a specific time everyday, but when I stop and recognize Him for the great things He is doing in my life, and in this world, my life is more blessed.
This morning I was blessed to spend an hour alone with God as I watched the sunrise, listened to the birds chirping, and taking time to be thankful that He has given me another day on earth.
I don't need...or want....anything more.
I am blessed.
My most precious moments everyday are when I'm talking to God. It's my quiet time. And sometimes, it's not so quite....if He's speaking loud enough. I don't have a routine of a specific time everyday, but when I stop and recognize Him for the great things He is doing in my life, and in this world, my life is more blessed.
This morning I was blessed to spend an hour alone with God as I watched the sunrise, listened to the birds chirping, and taking time to be thankful that He has given me another day on earth.
I don't need...or want....anything more.
I am blessed.
Tuesday, May 04, 2010
Dump Day
I, along with many others, have committed to participate in "Dump Day". This is a re-post from Trey Morgan's blog. Will you join? You can go to his blog to donate. Nobody should ever have to live like this. And we can help.
7 QUESTIONS ABOUT DUMP DAY
Can you imagine being so poor and so hungry that you'd take up residence at your local dump and dig through the disgusting trash to find yourself something to eat? Can you imagine feeding your children scraps of molded rotting garbage, just so they can live? Can you imagine your children picking the little bites of chicken off a chicken bone they found in the garbage? All these are regular occurrences at the dump in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. The Tegucigalpa dump is a dark and horrible place to live, yet many people do. Last year, on May 5th, you began to help make a difference in these forgotten people's lives, with the first ever Dump Day.
Twice this past year I had the privilege of being in Honduras and feeding hungry dump people with food you helped provide. This year I plan to go back to Honduras a couple of times and help feed the people at the dump. I'm praying this ministry is able to continue. Here are a few questions you may have that I hope I can help answer...
1. What is "Dump Day?"•Dump Day started last May 5th when we all raised over $12,500 for the Dump Fund. Everyone came together and pledged money and hungry people were fed. Here's the post if you want to look back. Now that a year has passed we want to have another "Dump Day" fundraiser to make sure we're able to continue to feed the hungry people of the Tegucigalpa, Honduras dump.
2. How did Dump Day start?•In November of 2008 I got a newsletter from a group of kids who were doing some mission work down in Honduras. They mentioned in their newsletter about going out to the dump and feeding people who lived there. When I first read it I thought to myself, "No way is there really people who live at a dump and eat out of the trash." I emailed them and found out more about their work. They were making and taking sandwiches to them when the funds to do so were available. About six months later we decided to have a fund raiser for them on this blog. My dream was to raise about $2500 for this work. I dreamed much too small.
3. Why May 5th?•May 5th is my cancer anniversary. This year I will have been cancer free for 7 years. What better way to celebrate surviving cancer and being cancer free than doing something like this. :)
4. How can you help?•By doing two things: 1) help pass the word about what we're doing here on May 5th. You can use your blog, your church bulletin, your email, send letters or any other way of getting the word out. The more people that know, the more people that can help. And 2) make a donation. Stop by on May 5th and leave a comment with what you're pledging to give. That helps us keep up with where we are on the fund-raiser.
5. How do I give/pledge?•Once you leave a pledge ("I'll give $50, etc."), you make out a check, money order or use the Paypal button on the side-bar of this blog. We're trying to make it as easy as possible to give. On May 5th I'll include the address where you can mail your money, if you pay by check or money order.
6. Where will my money go?•This is simple ... your money will go to help feed the people at the dump. Period.
7. How do I participate in this year's Dump Day fast? •This year I'm challenging you to a Dump Day fast. A 30 hour fast that will coincide with the Dump Day marathon. It will be a reminder to us that there are hungry people in this world, and they can't be overlooked. I'm not sure there's ever been a day in the Tegucigalpa dump when the people have actually had more to eat than me ... but on May 5th they will. I will be fasting and on that day (Dump Day, May 5th), and my friend Marc Tindall will be feeding rice, beans, tortillas, bananas and water to the people at the dump.
•I challenge you to fast from Tuesday afternoon until Wednesday evening. Then you can take the money you'd have spent on meals and give that money to hungry people. What better way to spend the money you saved on meals? :)
I also challenge you to some accountability on this by signing up. Simply leave a comment that says, "I'm in on the fast." You in?
7 QUESTIONS ABOUT DUMP DAY
Can you imagine being so poor and so hungry that you'd take up residence at your local dump and dig through the disgusting trash to find yourself something to eat? Can you imagine feeding your children scraps of molded rotting garbage, just so they can live? Can you imagine your children picking the little bites of chicken off a chicken bone they found in the garbage? All these are regular occurrences at the dump in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. The Tegucigalpa dump is a dark and horrible place to live, yet many people do. Last year, on May 5th, you began to help make a difference in these forgotten people's lives, with the first ever Dump Day.
Twice this past year I had the privilege of being in Honduras and feeding hungry dump people with food you helped provide. This year I plan to go back to Honduras a couple of times and help feed the people at the dump. I'm praying this ministry is able to continue. Here are a few questions you may have that I hope I can help answer...
1. What is "Dump Day?"•Dump Day started last May 5th when we all raised over $12,500 for the Dump Fund. Everyone came together and pledged money and hungry people were fed. Here's the post if you want to look back. Now that a year has passed we want to have another "Dump Day" fundraiser to make sure we're able to continue to feed the hungry people of the Tegucigalpa, Honduras dump.
2. How did Dump Day start?•In November of 2008 I got a newsletter from a group of kids who were doing some mission work down in Honduras. They mentioned in their newsletter about going out to the dump and feeding people who lived there. When I first read it I thought to myself, "No way is there really people who live at a dump and eat out of the trash." I emailed them and found out more about their work. They were making and taking sandwiches to them when the funds to do so were available. About six months later we decided to have a fund raiser for them on this blog. My dream was to raise about $2500 for this work. I dreamed much too small.
3. Why May 5th?•May 5th is my cancer anniversary. This year I will have been cancer free for 7 years. What better way to celebrate surviving cancer and being cancer free than doing something like this. :)
4. How can you help?•By doing two things: 1) help pass the word about what we're doing here on May 5th. You can use your blog, your church bulletin, your email, send letters or any other way of getting the word out. The more people that know, the more people that can help. And 2) make a donation. Stop by on May 5th and leave a comment with what you're pledging to give. That helps us keep up with where we are on the fund-raiser.
5. How do I give/pledge?•Once you leave a pledge ("I'll give $50, etc."), you make out a check, money order or use the Paypal button on the side-bar of this blog. We're trying to make it as easy as possible to give. On May 5th I'll include the address where you can mail your money, if you pay by check or money order.
6. Where will my money go?•This is simple ... your money will go to help feed the people at the dump. Period.
7. How do I participate in this year's Dump Day fast? •This year I'm challenging you to a Dump Day fast. A 30 hour fast that will coincide with the Dump Day marathon. It will be a reminder to us that there are hungry people in this world, and they can't be overlooked. I'm not sure there's ever been a day in the Tegucigalpa dump when the people have actually had more to eat than me ... but on May 5th they will. I will be fasting and on that day (Dump Day, May 5th), and my friend Marc Tindall will be feeding rice, beans, tortillas, bananas and water to the people at the dump.
•I challenge you to fast from Tuesday afternoon until Wednesday evening. Then you can take the money you'd have spent on meals and give that money to hungry people. What better way to spend the money you saved on meals? :)
I also challenge you to some accountability on this by signing up. Simply leave a comment that says, "I'm in on the fast." You in?
Monday, May 03, 2010
4 more days
Everything is set into place.
I've got the cap and gown. I've taken the test. I've met all the requirements to graduate. Now we just gotta wait for that official night.
I recieved a letter that was address to:
Brenda Lee Hughes, AAS, CRT, RRT.
Um....those are a lot of letters....THAT MEAN A WHOLE LOT TO ME! :o) I totally know that girl.
This morning I had time to reflect on some of the highlights of my school career. One of them was my Goverment class. Of all classes for me to love and excel in, this was the one. Even though it was just part of my basics, the professor I had made a huge difference in my thought process and whether to continue on with this dream or not. I had been out of school for 15 years a that time and didn't really remember much about studying or even how to take test. His class wasn't the best one for learning those things as he only gave 2 test a year. The mid-term and the final. Both were essays that you had to think on the fly and write not knowing what the question would be ahead of time. And I will never forget how I was able to incorporate how Santa Clause is so similar to Government today. No..that wasn't the question, but I worte about it and told every bit of the constitution and how it reltated and yes....I got an A!!!! But that professor taught me how to look at things in life differently. I admired him greately.
I've had a lot of great professors through these years and many of them stand out to me and helped me change my life. For that I am grateful. I am thankful that so many of them were wonderful christian leaders and role models. Not only for me, but for the students they encountered. I may be 36....but I still need positive role models in my life that will lead me in the right direction when I get lost. God knew just who to place in my life over these past 5 years to help me thorugh it. Not just teachers, but friends. So many that believed in me when I couldn't believe in myself and do it on my own. So many that pushed me. So many that helped me along the way. So many that loved me and get to see what I will now go out and do with the degree.....(and all those credentials) that I have earned.
I am so blessed.
I am so thankful.
I am so happy.
I am loved.
I've got the cap and gown. I've taken the test. I've met all the requirements to graduate. Now we just gotta wait for that official night.
I recieved a letter that was address to:
Brenda Lee Hughes, AAS, CRT, RRT.
Um....those are a lot of letters....THAT MEAN A WHOLE LOT TO ME! :o) I totally know that girl.
This morning I had time to reflect on some of the highlights of my school career. One of them was my Goverment class. Of all classes for me to love and excel in, this was the one. Even though it was just part of my basics, the professor I had made a huge difference in my thought process and whether to continue on with this dream or not. I had been out of school for 15 years a that time and didn't really remember much about studying or even how to take test. His class wasn't the best one for learning those things as he only gave 2 test a year. The mid-term and the final. Both were essays that you had to think on the fly and write not knowing what the question would be ahead of time. And I will never forget how I was able to incorporate how Santa Clause is so similar to Government today. No..that wasn't the question, but I worte about it and told every bit of the constitution and how it reltated and yes....I got an A!!!! But that professor taught me how to look at things in life differently. I admired him greately.
I've had a lot of great professors through these years and many of them stand out to me and helped me change my life. For that I am grateful. I am thankful that so many of them were wonderful christian leaders and role models. Not only for me, but for the students they encountered. I may be 36....but I still need positive role models in my life that will lead me in the right direction when I get lost. God knew just who to place in my life over these past 5 years to help me thorugh it. Not just teachers, but friends. So many that believed in me when I couldn't believe in myself and do it on my own. So many that pushed me. So many that helped me along the way. So many that loved me and get to see what I will now go out and do with the degree.....(and all those credentials) that I have earned.
I am so blessed.
I am so thankful.
I am so happy.
I am loved.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Countdowns....Graduation and KPC
Not sure what to count down to anymore, there is so much going on. It's good to have a busy life!!!
I've been counting down to graduation (21 days) but now my focused has switched.
I'm counting down to the KPC Night of Praise. 5 MORE DAYS!!!!
What a joy this year has been. These kids are amazing to me. They teach me so much about joy and laughter, happiness and sadness, and pride and humility. I think God gave me the ability to teach these kids so that I may learn from them myself.
In my 3 years of doing this, they have helped me grow in ways I didn't see before. It's like that phrase "I once was blind, but now I see...." I know....it doesn't mean this...but so many things that my heart and mind were blind to before, are now so opened. Things that were hurting my heart because of my selfish and prideful ways, I see so differently now.
Kids are smart. They are much smarter than we ever give them credit for. And when I teach 27 of them 4 times a month, I am the one that is really learning God lessons from them. The things they say are truly God statements. The ways they serve each other are beautiful acts of God. The way they care for one another and love each other shows just what God has commanded us to do. These kids have got it right.
I have to admit.....I'm sad. I'm really sad that in 5 days, this will be over again. I could do this all year. I love it that much. What makes me love it even more is the fact that I have a church family that supports this ministry and these kids so much. I have delegated more this year than I ever have and I pray it goes perfectly....and it will! God has placed the right people in place for this.
The kids look forward to this night for 4 1/2 months and they can't wait for their moms and dads to see what they have accomplished. To see how they have learned to worship God. For me.....when I turn my head at church and see them praising God with all they've got......that makes my heart simply smile. I can't even imagine what it does in God's heart. I'm not sure I have ever seen a smile quite that big....and I bet he's got it! :o)
I know one thing for sure, when this is over....I'll be able to just breathe! All of this behind me will be a good thing...but a chapter in my life gone. So what's next?
Stay tuned....and I'll tell ya! :o)
I've been counting down to graduation (21 days) but now my focused has switched.
I'm counting down to the KPC Night of Praise. 5 MORE DAYS!!!!
What a joy this year has been. These kids are amazing to me. They teach me so much about joy and laughter, happiness and sadness, and pride and humility. I think God gave me the ability to teach these kids so that I may learn from them myself.
In my 3 years of doing this, they have helped me grow in ways I didn't see before. It's like that phrase "I once was blind, but now I see...." I know....it doesn't mean this...but so many things that my heart and mind were blind to before, are now so opened. Things that were hurting my heart because of my selfish and prideful ways, I see so differently now.
Kids are smart. They are much smarter than we ever give them credit for. And when I teach 27 of them 4 times a month, I am the one that is really learning God lessons from them. The things they say are truly God statements. The ways they serve each other are beautiful acts of God. The way they care for one another and love each other shows just what God has commanded us to do. These kids have got it right.
I have to admit.....I'm sad. I'm really sad that in 5 days, this will be over again. I could do this all year. I love it that much. What makes me love it even more is the fact that I have a church family that supports this ministry and these kids so much. I have delegated more this year than I ever have and I pray it goes perfectly....and it will! God has placed the right people in place for this.
The kids look forward to this night for 4 1/2 months and they can't wait for their moms and dads to see what they have accomplished. To see how they have learned to worship God. For me.....when I turn my head at church and see them praising God with all they've got......that makes my heart simply smile. I can't even imagine what it does in God's heart. I'm not sure I have ever seen a smile quite that big....and I bet he's got it! :o)
I know one thing for sure, when this is over....I'll be able to just breathe! All of this behind me will be a good thing...but a chapter in my life gone. So what's next?
Stay tuned....and I'll tell ya! :o)
Monday, April 12, 2010
25 days
I know what I know...and it's all I know.
The test are overwhelming.
Changes here and there and everywhere. But what doesn't kill me will make me stronger right?
Today we did our graduation check, got our caps and gowns, and got everything in order. Really, it was kind of fun but for a moment, I felt relief and sadness all at the same time that this chapter of my life is almost over. Time for a new one to begin. I'm excited for that.
The test are overwhelming.
Changes here and there and everywhere. But what doesn't kill me will make me stronger right?
Today we did our graduation check, got our caps and gowns, and got everything in order. Really, it was kind of fun but for a moment, I felt relief and sadness all at the same time that this chapter of my life is almost over. Time for a new one to begin. I'm excited for that.
Tuesday, April 06, 2010
Whoa!!! 30 days!!!
Okay!!! Here we go!
30 days left! GRADUATION!!!! Wow!
In the next 3 and a half weeks I have to take 8 more huge exams, 13 more class days, 2 more doctor lectures, 6 more clinicals, a surgery rotation in the heart cath lab, a meeting with financial team, academic counselors, and graduation counselors.
Today in the car I wasn't listening to any music. That is odd for me. The moment I get in the car I turn something on and start singing. But today the peacefulness was amazing. When I do that, God sends me songs like "Still" and "Peace be Still" and "Peace, Perfect Peace" and "It is well" and so on. I know those are God moments. I love those moments.
I said today that I'm worried about my spirit over the next few weeks. Philippians 4:6 tells me not to worry and in Matthew 6:25-34 Jesus says that our Father will take care of our needs...and not to worry.
How do I not worry? Well he tells me in 1 Peter to cast my anxieties on him because he cares for me.
And back in Phillipians 4:7 is says He promises to give us the peace that passes all understanding.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).
If you read this....and I'm not sure who does anymore....please pray for the next 30 days that I will freely lay all my burdens down and trust Him to give me the rest I need. Pray that whatever happens, it will be all by His will....not mine. Pray that I have peace and understanding that this is not just a step, but a milestone that is about to be over and a new milestone to begin in my life. Pray for those that I come in contact with. Who knows if I will offend them by my lack of concentration or inability to focus on anything except these exams. Pray that I have the ability to lay down the books and focus on God and worship Him freely without feeling behind or burdened that I need to be doing something else. Pray that God works through me to accomplish all things in life. Pray that I continue to be strong in my faith in Him and that I don't lose site of the journey and the goal. Pray for my husband as he feels so neglected right now. Pray for my kids that they can hold on for 3 more weeks until they get their mamma back! Pray for my physical body as it is taking a beating right now. It need sleep! Pray for the patients I will see and pray that they see God working through me.
30 days left! GRADUATION!!!! Wow!
In the next 3 and a half weeks I have to take 8 more huge exams, 13 more class days, 2 more doctor lectures, 6 more clinicals, a surgery rotation in the heart cath lab, a meeting with financial team, academic counselors, and graduation counselors.
Today in the car I wasn't listening to any music. That is odd for me. The moment I get in the car I turn something on and start singing. But today the peacefulness was amazing. When I do that, God sends me songs like "Still" and "Peace be Still" and "Peace, Perfect Peace" and "It is well" and so on. I know those are God moments. I love those moments.
I said today that I'm worried about my spirit over the next few weeks. Philippians 4:6 tells me not to worry and in Matthew 6:25-34 Jesus says that our Father will take care of our needs...and not to worry.
How do I not worry? Well he tells me in 1 Peter to cast my anxieties on him because he cares for me.
And back in Phillipians 4:7 is says He promises to give us the peace that passes all understanding.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).
If you read this....and I'm not sure who does anymore....please pray for the next 30 days that I will freely lay all my burdens down and trust Him to give me the rest I need. Pray that whatever happens, it will be all by His will....not mine. Pray that I have peace and understanding that this is not just a step, but a milestone that is about to be over and a new milestone to begin in my life. Pray for those that I come in contact with. Who knows if I will offend them by my lack of concentration or inability to focus on anything except these exams. Pray that I have the ability to lay down the books and focus on God and worship Him freely without feeling behind or burdened that I need to be doing something else. Pray that God works through me to accomplish all things in life. Pray that I continue to be strong in my faith in Him and that I don't lose site of the journey and the goal. Pray for my husband as he feels so neglected right now. Pray for my kids that they can hold on for 3 more weeks until they get their mamma back! Pray for my physical body as it is taking a beating right now. It need sleep! Pray for the patients I will see and pray that they see God working through me.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Daddy's and Daughters
Fortunatley, Chad teaches Emilie what a girl is supposed to be treated like!!!!
This is them getting ready for the Father/Daughter dance. It was priceless!!!!
This is them getting ready for the Father/Daughter dance. It was priceless!!!!
Friday, January 15, 2010
Shining with brightness
2 Cor. 3:16-18 it says, "Whenever, though, they turn to face God as Moses did, God removes the veil and there they are--face to face! They suddenly recognize that God is a living, personal presence, not a piece of chiseled stone. And when God is personally present, a living Spirit, that old, constricting legislation is recognized as obsolete. We're free of it! All of us! Nothing between us and God, our faces shining with the brightness of his face. And so we are transfigured much like the Messiah, our lives gradually becoming brighter and more beautiful as God enters our lives and we become like him."
Father, I want to communicate Your name to others, in worship, at work, in the store, everywhere! Let me shine with brightness so that others may see You though me and so I can become more like You. Amen
Father, I want to communicate Your name to others, in worship, at work, in the store, everywhere! Let me shine with brightness so that others may see You though me and so I can become more like You. Amen
He's got my attention!
God's talking! I'm listening!
I highlight words in these songs not to point out negatives, but to point out things I have said to myself over the past few weeks in trying to make some decisions. It think God decided that if I wasn't going to listen that he would scream it at me last night through these songs. My heart sank. It was like being in that movie "Field of Dreams" and nobody could see the players......and here I sat wondering...."Am I the only one getting the message????" Okay.....He has my full attention!
We are not afraid, to follow where You lead,
Leaving what we know, for what we cannot see.
We are not afraid for we are not alone,
and so we'll go with You into the unknown.
We are not afraid to love the way You do,
to serve with the same grace we receive from You.
We are not afraid to look beyond ourselves,and offer hope to those who cannot help themselves.
We are not afraid though some say we should wait,
the cost is just too high, the danger is too great
We are not afraid to move when You say move,
Trusting in Your voice, We will follow You.
We will be fearless for You. Fearless for You.
We will be faithful in all that we do.
If we step out on the waves or walk through the flames
Whatever you ask us to do, we will be fearless for You.
~Anywhere with Jesus I can safely go. Anywhere He leads me in this world below
~Anywhere with Jesus I am not afraid.
~Anywhere with Jesus I am not alone.
~Anywhere with Jesus over land and sea, Telling souls in darkness of salvation free.
~READY AS HE SUMMONS ME TO GO OR STAY! ANYWHERE WITH JESUS WHEN HE POINTS THE WAY!
~I choose to be holy, set apart for You my Master, ready to do Your will. Lord, I'm ready to do your will.
~Give me the heart of a servant, tender and faith and true. Fill me with love, then use me O Lord, so that the world can see You.
~Mold me and shape me, do what you must do. To make me a servant, make me like You.
~Let me be a sacrifice, holy and acceptable.
~Take the Lord with you, everywhere you go.
I highlight words in these songs not to point out negatives, but to point out things I have said to myself over the past few weeks in trying to make some decisions. It think God decided that if I wasn't going to listen that he would scream it at me last night through these songs. My heart sank. It was like being in that movie "Field of Dreams" and nobody could see the players......and here I sat wondering...."Am I the only one getting the message????" Okay.....He has my full attention!
We are not afraid, to follow where You lead,
Leaving what we know, for what we cannot see.
We are not afraid for we are not alone,
and so we'll go with You into the unknown.
We are not afraid to love the way You do,
to serve with the same grace we receive from You.
We are not afraid to look beyond ourselves,and offer hope to those who cannot help themselves.
We are not afraid though some say we should wait,
the cost is just too high, the danger is too great
We are not afraid to move when You say move,
Trusting in Your voice, We will follow You.
We will be fearless for You. Fearless for You.
We will be faithful in all that we do.
If we step out on the waves or walk through the flames
Whatever you ask us to do, we will be fearless for You.
~Anywhere with Jesus I can safely go. Anywhere He leads me in this world below
~Anywhere with Jesus I am not afraid.
~Anywhere with Jesus I am not alone.
~Anywhere with Jesus over land and sea, Telling souls in darkness of salvation free.
~READY AS HE SUMMONS ME TO GO OR STAY! ANYWHERE WITH JESUS WHEN HE POINTS THE WAY!
~I choose to be holy, set apart for You my Master, ready to do Your will. Lord, I'm ready to do your will.
~Give me the heart of a servant, tender and faith and true. Fill me with love, then use me O Lord, so that the world can see You.
~Mold me and shape me, do what you must do. To make me a servant, make me like You.
~Let me be a sacrifice, holy and acceptable.
~Take the Lord with you, everywhere you go.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Love is....
Today in class we talked about many things surrounding loving your mate and being in love with your mate.
Here are just some of my thoughts after class: (not the thoughts of Chad)
I met Chad March 5th, 1992. Coming up on 18 years ago! I remember the first time I ever saw him. I had more butterflies than I could count. I was at a loss for words. My heart was pounding as I walked up to the counter to ask him for a drink. But at that moment, it was love at first sight!
I think the first time I can remember feeling "in love" was about 30 days into the "dating" portion of our relationship. That feeling continued for....oh....I can't tell you how long! But I realized at about 6 months or so that I truly loved this man and I didn't ever want to be without him. That's a different love. (but was still in love) ....I feel like I'm in a riddle! :o)
Many years went by.....8 to be exact.....and the "in love" was gone. Love was still there, but "in love" was being taken over by the love I was giving to the kids. They had all my butterflies and we were all flying together. It was a very very bad time for our marriage. But I knew this.....that I loved Chad with everything that I had. Even though it wasn't much....and I didn't have much love to give.....I still loved him.
Now, at year 15...coming up on 16 in April.....I am more "IN LOVE" with him than I have ever been. He walks in the room, and my heart skips a beat! Those same feelings I had 18 years ago, are back again. He is still as much my boyfriend, as he is my husband. I love to be with him. I love to date him. I love it when he calls me. I love it when he takes me out. I love his surprises. I just love him!
This morning at church, he was learning how to run the sound board and I had to try hard to not look up at him. I didn't want anyone to catch me looking at my boyfriend and see him looking at me. Is he a distraction??? Sometimes, but I can handle it. He's the love of my life. He is my soul mate. We'll be together until God brings us home.
When we were younger, Chad's love language to receive was physical touch. Okay really....it's probably that for most young men early in the relationship. I couldn't stand that because all I ever had was touch from the kids for so many years. By the time Chad came home, I was done. Hugs and kisses were already gone. But his love language TO me was gift giving. He is the biggest giver I know. He thinks of everyone else first....me included. But that wasn't me.I didn't like gifts. I am a saver of money and don't need a lot of things. I wanted quality time, and acts of service. I would love it if he cleaned out my car, or went to the store for me, or just sat with me and did nothing.
But today.....we have switched!
My love language to receive is Physical Touch. My kids are growing up and I miss the hugs and kisses I used to get from them. Just a simple hug from him....or from family...or friends means so much to me. But from Chad, it makes up for all those years that I couldn't give him his need.
My other would be words of affirmation. I need this for a lot of the same reasons as above. I want to hear the words "I love you" "You're special" "You did a good job" etc. Those mean a lot to me and I am fortunate that Chad is one of those guys that I don't ever have to ask. Sometimes, it's overkill....but that's okay! :o)
If I could have 3 I would definitely say quality time is a must. We DVR things and watch them together each night when the kids go to bed and I just love that time with him. Or if I just have to run to the store, he goes with me so it can be just us. I love that!
I left with a realization today that more than ever, I love him so much. I'm very fortunate that he has put up with me for all these years. I screw up as a wife all the time.....and I screw up big! But no matter what, he is always very forgiving and loves me unconditionally.
We may be totally opposite......I like Acappella....He likes AC/DC....but I think that God had and still has an amazing plan for us. One that I can't even comprehend. But I'm excited for the journey he is taking us on. I love it.
One day....I want to marry him all over again and get look into his eyes and say....well....I'm not sure what I'd say.....but I'm sure it would include the most 3 beautiful words I could ever hear.
Here are just some of my thoughts after class: (not the thoughts of Chad)
I met Chad March 5th, 1992. Coming up on 18 years ago! I remember the first time I ever saw him. I had more butterflies than I could count. I was at a loss for words. My heart was pounding as I walked up to the counter to ask him for a drink. But at that moment, it was love at first sight!
I think the first time I can remember feeling "in love" was about 30 days into the "dating" portion of our relationship. That feeling continued for....oh....I can't tell you how long! But I realized at about 6 months or so that I truly loved this man and I didn't ever want to be without him. That's a different love. (but was still in love) ....I feel like I'm in a riddle! :o)
Many years went by.....8 to be exact.....and the "in love" was gone. Love was still there, but "in love" was being taken over by the love I was giving to the kids. They had all my butterflies and we were all flying together. It was a very very bad time for our marriage. But I knew this.....that I loved Chad with everything that I had. Even though it wasn't much....and I didn't have much love to give.....I still loved him.
Now, at year 15...coming up on 16 in April.....I am more "IN LOVE" with him than I have ever been. He walks in the room, and my heart skips a beat! Those same feelings I had 18 years ago, are back again. He is still as much my boyfriend, as he is my husband. I love to be with him. I love to date him. I love it when he calls me. I love it when he takes me out. I love his surprises. I just love him!
This morning at church, he was learning how to run the sound board and I had to try hard to not look up at him. I didn't want anyone to catch me looking at my boyfriend and see him looking at me. Is he a distraction??? Sometimes, but I can handle it. He's the love of my life. He is my soul mate. We'll be together until God brings us home.
When we were younger, Chad's love language to receive was physical touch. Okay really....it's probably that for most young men early in the relationship. I couldn't stand that because all I ever had was touch from the kids for so many years. By the time Chad came home, I was done. Hugs and kisses were already gone. But his love language TO me was gift giving. He is the biggest giver I know. He thinks of everyone else first....me included. But that wasn't me.I didn't like gifts. I am a saver of money and don't need a lot of things. I wanted quality time, and acts of service. I would love it if he cleaned out my car, or went to the store for me, or just sat with me and did nothing.
But today.....we have switched!
My love language to receive is Physical Touch. My kids are growing up and I miss the hugs and kisses I used to get from them. Just a simple hug from him....or from family...or friends means so much to me. But from Chad, it makes up for all those years that I couldn't give him his need.
My other would be words of affirmation. I need this for a lot of the same reasons as above. I want to hear the words "I love you" "You're special" "You did a good job" etc. Those mean a lot to me and I am fortunate that Chad is one of those guys that I don't ever have to ask. Sometimes, it's overkill....but that's okay! :o)
If I could have 3 I would definitely say quality time is a must. We DVR things and watch them together each night when the kids go to bed and I just love that time with him. Or if I just have to run to the store, he goes with me so it can be just us. I love that!
I left with a realization today that more than ever, I love him so much. I'm very fortunate that he has put up with me for all these years. I screw up as a wife all the time.....and I screw up big! But no matter what, he is always very forgiving and loves me unconditionally.
We may be totally opposite......I like Acappella....He likes AC/DC....but I think that God had and still has an amazing plan for us. One that I can't even comprehend. But I'm excited for the journey he is taking us on. I love it.
One day....I want to marry him all over again and get look into his eyes and say....well....I'm not sure what I'd say.....but I'm sure it would include the most 3 beautiful words I could ever hear.
Weird..good or bad.
Since I've been back at work I've heard several times "you're just weird"
Now...I know they are saying this in a joking manner, but after about the 20th time I heard it yesterday, it started to rub me the wrong way. Insecurity set in, I started doubting who I was, and I just wondered what would I have to do to be considered "Normal"
Webester defines weird as
1. involving or suggesting the supernatural; unearthly or uncanny: a weird sound; weird lights.
2. fantastic; bizarre: a weird getup.
3. Archaic. concerned with or controlling fate or destiny
I'm not real sure if I fit any of those descriptions and I'm not sure they meant it like that either.
By my co-workers definitions, I'm weird becuase I don't drink, I don't go out to party, I don't cuss, I say poop or poot instead of using other words that I particularly don't want to hear myself. I'm weird because I have a husband that wants to shower me with gifts and I don't like that. I'm weird because I don't want him to take me out to a meal that cost over $100.00. I'm weird because I defend others when they can't defend themselves. I'm weird because I refuse to work on Sunday's and Wednesday's unless there is an emergency. I'm weird because I make random conversations that make others laugh. I'm weird becuause I like to have a converstaion with each of my patients instead of treat'em and street'em and I was told yesterday that I am weird because I actually care about things.
Wow! Okay, that doesn't quite sound like the definition I just read.
I'm constantly an open target for people and most of the time I find that others don't take me seriously. However, my bosses take me very seriously and love having me around.
So, do I change? Well, I think I did that for a point of my life where I changed to please others, and I was miserable. I love being happy and I love my life and I love who I am. Why sit around a table and gossip and talk bad about others? Why use words that aren't pleasing to God and especially to others around me? Why would I want to be anyone different that who God wants me to be?
I don't really have a word to describe myself best but I don't think I would choose weird.
Now...I know they are saying this in a joking manner, but after about the 20th time I heard it yesterday, it started to rub me the wrong way. Insecurity set in, I started doubting who I was, and I just wondered what would I have to do to be considered "Normal"
Webester defines weird as
1. involving or suggesting the supernatural; unearthly or uncanny: a weird sound; weird lights.
2. fantastic; bizarre: a weird getup.
3. Archaic. concerned with or controlling fate or destiny
I'm not real sure if I fit any of those descriptions and I'm not sure they meant it like that either.
By my co-workers definitions, I'm weird becuase I don't drink, I don't go out to party, I don't cuss, I say poop or poot instead of using other words that I particularly don't want to hear myself. I'm weird because I have a husband that wants to shower me with gifts and I don't like that. I'm weird because I don't want him to take me out to a meal that cost over $100.00. I'm weird because I defend others when they can't defend themselves. I'm weird because I refuse to work on Sunday's and Wednesday's unless there is an emergency. I'm weird because I make random conversations that make others laugh. I'm weird becuause I like to have a converstaion with each of my patients instead of treat'em and street'em and I was told yesterday that I am weird because I actually care about things.
Wow! Okay, that doesn't quite sound like the definition I just read.
I'm constantly an open target for people and most of the time I find that others don't take me seriously. However, my bosses take me very seriously and love having me around.
So, do I change? Well, I think I did that for a point of my life where I changed to please others, and I was miserable. I love being happy and I love my life and I love who I am. Why sit around a table and gossip and talk bad about others? Why use words that aren't pleasing to God and especially to others around me? Why would I want to be anyone different that who God wants me to be?
I don't really have a word to describe myself best but I don't think I would choose weird.
Thursday, January 07, 2010
Inside Out
"In the heart me there's a mystery,
in my weakness there is still,
a goodness not my own,
it comes from God alone,
and I can not be sure until.
You turn me inside out, so that I can be,
a reflection of the one who made me.
So the world can see that it's Christ in me,
Lord, turn me inside out, turn me inside out.
What my pride conceals,
Lord your truth reveals,
and your grace is seen somehow.
There is mercy when,
in spite of who I've been.
Your glory dwells within me now.
So turn me inside out, so that I can be,
a reflection of the one who made me.
So the world can see, that it's Christ in me Lord,
turn me inside out, turn me inside out.
These may be lyrics to a Zoe Group song, but they just feel like so much more when I'm singing them. It hits to the depths of my heart. That's how I know God is trying to speak to me.
When my heart sings this I hear it as such a prayer. One that I have prayed over and over.
In Luke 11 it is very clearly stated to the foolish people that our God is the one that made us on the inside as well as the outside. But, being the earthly people that we are or......sinners perhaps.....why wouldn't our prayer to God be to let others see what is really on the inside.
If you looked at the inside of someones body, (which I have) you would find that we are very complex. So much so it takes years and years of study and research to figure out things that didn't take God very long at all. When we were put here on earth, everything worked in us as God had planned. Some are born perfect. Some are born with sickness and some may develop things along the way. But again, it's all by design. It's God's plan.
I treat some of the most amazing people at work and I have to say, they have some pretty ugly lungs and organs. But when you break through that layer of sickness and find their true heart (turn them inside out) they are some of the most beautiful people I have ever met.
I want to be that person. Young...old....sick....healthy....living....or dying....I want to be turned inside out so that others can see Christ in me. I don't want there to be any hypocrisy. I want what is on the inside of my heart to be seen on the outside as well. I want to be beautiful on the inside and outside so that in everything that I do, Christ is the center of my reflection.
I know what this looks like to me. Most days, I don't find it a big challenge. But somedays.....I feel Satan pulling me and that is when I know....if I screw up, I am loved and covered by His mercy and grace.
My prayer today is that others will see Him and that I will live a life that is "Inside Out"
in my weakness there is still,
a goodness not my own,
it comes from God alone,
and I can not be sure until.
You turn me inside out, so that I can be,
a reflection of the one who made me.
So the world can see that it's Christ in me,
Lord, turn me inside out, turn me inside out.
What my pride conceals,
Lord your truth reveals,
and your grace is seen somehow.
There is mercy when,
in spite of who I've been.
Your glory dwells within me now.
So turn me inside out, so that I can be,
a reflection of the one who made me.
So the world can see, that it's Christ in me Lord,
turn me inside out, turn me inside out.
These may be lyrics to a Zoe Group song, but they just feel like so much more when I'm singing them. It hits to the depths of my heart. That's how I know God is trying to speak to me.
When my heart sings this I hear it as such a prayer. One that I have prayed over and over.
In Luke 11 it is very clearly stated to the foolish people that our God is the one that made us on the inside as well as the outside. But, being the earthly people that we are or......sinners perhaps.....why wouldn't our prayer to God be to let others see what is really on the inside.
If you looked at the inside of someones body, (which I have) you would find that we are very complex. So much so it takes years and years of study and research to figure out things that didn't take God very long at all. When we were put here on earth, everything worked in us as God had planned. Some are born perfect. Some are born with sickness and some may develop things along the way. But again, it's all by design. It's God's plan.
I treat some of the most amazing people at work and I have to say, they have some pretty ugly lungs and organs. But when you break through that layer of sickness and find their true heart (turn them inside out) they are some of the most beautiful people I have ever met.
I want to be that person. Young...old....sick....healthy....living....or dying....I want to be turned inside out so that others can see Christ in me. I don't want there to be any hypocrisy. I want what is on the inside of my heart to be seen on the outside as well. I want to be beautiful on the inside and outside so that in everything that I do, Christ is the center of my reflection.
I know what this looks like to me. Most days, I don't find it a big challenge. But somedays.....I feel Satan pulling me and that is when I know....if I screw up, I am loved and covered by His mercy and grace.
My prayer today is that others will see Him and that I will live a life that is "Inside Out"
Monday, January 04, 2010
KPC's 2010
Kids Praise Chorus started yesterday for the 2010 season. Let's just say....they blew me away! They were ready to go and did very well. Praying every rehearsal is like yesterdays!
(Thank you Tammy for the beautiful blog)
(Thank you Tammy for the beautiful blog)
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Less is more!
Reading Terry's blog this morning inspired me to write about our Christmas experience this year.
Financially things have been really rough since I haven't been working. It's caused us to make some changes in places that we would normally splurge. Christmas is one of those.
I get that from my parents. Christmas morning we always woke with the most amazing amount of gifts under the tree. The sight was unbelievable. Even as I have grown up and had children of my own, they couldn't wait to go to Grandma's house to see just how many presents they managed to fit under the tree.
About 2 months ago we had talk with the kids and told them Christmas wasn't going to be what they were use to in the past. They are getting older, things they would like to have cost more, and we have been living only on one income. What I didn't know is that their grandparents had that same talk with them. My dad retired this year and now they only have one income. Christmas would be small.
Each day they watched as we put the presents under the tree. They each got 4 items. They did ask if there was going to be any more, and I simply said no....and there was no fuss.
Christmas morning comes around and they are excited. I can't tell you a Christmas where I have seen them more excited than this one. It was different. They were patient, kind, and wanted to drag out the gift giving process to last as long as possible. I was so proud of them as I didn't hear one complaint. I heard many Thank Yous and I love yous and saw lots of smiles.....but they never wanted for anything more. Emilie was so sweet and is such a giver. 2 days before Christmas she realized that Chad and I didn't have presents under the tree so she went in her room and started making ornaments, books, and all kinds of things that we could open that were hand made from her with love. It was priceless. Some of the best moments that morning was when we opened the gifts made from her. Christmas morning was good!!!
We proceeded to my parents where again, as adults, we had no presents to open and that was okay. But I loved the reaction of the kids and how they watched us enjoy their moments of opening presents. Normally they would have 10-20 big gifts to open. But Ian got only 1, Emilie got 3, and Lukus got 2....and they couldn't have been happier and more thankful. And you want to know what we did more of that day? They put the gifts down, and we all went sledding and enjoyed each others company! Does it get any better than that?
Society is so bogged down with the wants in life and we forget to focus on the things that we really need which is love, happiness, and just being together. I learned more this Christmas from just watching my kids. Although, they'll go back to school in a week and hear about the Ipod's and cell phones, and all the other accessories that kids got for Christmas and I hope they can share with their friends that what they had on Christmas morning and all during this break was quality time with their family and friends and there is no price you can put on something like that.
Financially things have been really rough since I haven't been working. It's caused us to make some changes in places that we would normally splurge. Christmas is one of those.
I get that from my parents. Christmas morning we always woke with the most amazing amount of gifts under the tree. The sight was unbelievable. Even as I have grown up and had children of my own, they couldn't wait to go to Grandma's house to see just how many presents they managed to fit under the tree.
About 2 months ago we had talk with the kids and told them Christmas wasn't going to be what they were use to in the past. They are getting older, things they would like to have cost more, and we have been living only on one income. What I didn't know is that their grandparents had that same talk with them. My dad retired this year and now they only have one income. Christmas would be small.
Each day they watched as we put the presents under the tree. They each got 4 items. They did ask if there was going to be any more, and I simply said no....and there was no fuss.
Christmas morning comes around and they are excited. I can't tell you a Christmas where I have seen them more excited than this one. It was different. They were patient, kind, and wanted to drag out the gift giving process to last as long as possible. I was so proud of them as I didn't hear one complaint. I heard many Thank Yous and I love yous and saw lots of smiles.....but they never wanted for anything more. Emilie was so sweet and is such a giver. 2 days before Christmas she realized that Chad and I didn't have presents under the tree so she went in her room and started making ornaments, books, and all kinds of things that we could open that were hand made from her with love. It was priceless. Some of the best moments that morning was when we opened the gifts made from her. Christmas morning was good!!!
We proceeded to my parents where again, as adults, we had no presents to open and that was okay. But I loved the reaction of the kids and how they watched us enjoy their moments of opening presents. Normally they would have 10-20 big gifts to open. But Ian got only 1, Emilie got 3, and Lukus got 2....and they couldn't have been happier and more thankful. And you want to know what we did more of that day? They put the gifts down, and we all went sledding and enjoyed each others company! Does it get any better than that?
Society is so bogged down with the wants in life and we forget to focus on the things that we really need which is love, happiness, and just being together. I learned more this Christmas from just watching my kids. Although, they'll go back to school in a week and hear about the Ipod's and cell phones, and all the other accessories that kids got for Christmas and I hope they can share with their friends that what they had on Christmas morning and all during this break was quality time with their family and friends and there is no price you can put on something like that.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Random Tuesday Stuff
I have now seen Christmas Vacation and can't believe how hard I laughed. I can't believe I have gone this long without seeing it.
I still have not seen The Grinch movie. Old or new.
Should I admit that I have never seen "It's a Wonderful Life"???? (ducking for cover)
This is the first year that I have had every gift purchased and wrapped way before Christmas.
This is also the first year that we paid for our entire Christmas with cash! Thank you Dave Ramsey!
Today I waited on a phone call that never came.
The post office in Owasso is rarely ever busy and since that dude knocked down our mailbox....I have gotten to know the people there really well! We're on a first name basis now. :o)
I have come to the conclusion that I type too many typos when texting! You just never know what I am going to say! And neither do I!!!!!
I decided that it is better to give a gift card to someone instead of buying a really cheesy gift that they really can't use or don't want. After all....it's the thought that counts! But I will still spend HOURS looking and thinking of a person.............and then buy a gift card.
Believe it or not, I have ran out of "RED" clothes to wear this holiday season! I am reverting to the black wardrobe and will accessorize with RED! :o) Gotta make it work for 3 more days!
I still have not seen The Grinch movie. Old or new.
Should I admit that I have never seen "It's a Wonderful Life"???? (ducking for cover)
This is the first year that I have had every gift purchased and wrapped way before Christmas.
This is also the first year that we paid for our entire Christmas with cash! Thank you Dave Ramsey!
Today I waited on a phone call that never came.
The post office in Owasso is rarely ever busy and since that dude knocked down our mailbox....I have gotten to know the people there really well! We're on a first name basis now. :o)
I have come to the conclusion that I type too many typos when texting! You just never know what I am going to say! And neither do I!!!!!
I decided that it is better to give a gift card to someone instead of buying a really cheesy gift that they really can't use or don't want. After all....it's the thought that counts! But I will still spend HOURS looking and thinking of a person.............and then buy a gift card.
Believe it or not, I have ran out of "RED" clothes to wear this holiday season! I am reverting to the black wardrobe and will accessorize with RED! :o) Gotta make it work for 3 more days!
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