Just an update!
I am currently 39 weeks and 1 day pregnant. According to the wonderful Alison Clark (my midwife), I am 1cm dilated, somewhat effaced, and Harleigh Grace has dropped! She foresees her making her arrival within the next week. We shall see...
I've let Harleigh know that she is welcome to come whenever she feels she is ready. Although my body is telling me it needs her to come soon with the on-again, off-again contractions, the intense pressure in my pelvic area and the pinching of my nerves in the middle of my back. Either way, she can come when she likes.
To ensure that she makes her arrival on time I've been taking at least 15 pills a day!
5-w: to tone the uterus and prepare it for labor
Evening Primrose Oil: to prepare the cervix...aka help thin it out
Clary Sage: this is an essential oil, it helps the cervix dilate and efface..basically it's just estrogen.
Sclaressence: tastes AWFUL! BUT, I'll do what it takes. Putting a drop in my cheek and applying to my ankles along with Clary Sage.
Gentle Baby and Clara Derm Spray: to keep the perineum from tearing. YES, it does work. It worked with Eden(: Have faith...
Once I do go into labor this oils along with a handful more will help with the pain, labor and delivery. I will update you on the birth AFTER it happens!
Thanks to all the prayer warriors out there because we finally have a house! Unfortunately, we more than likely won't be living in it when Harleigh does arrive but at the end of the day, we have a home. And THAT is a wonderful feeling. I love everybody, but I don't want to live with anyone but my husband and girls...ANYMORE! Thank ya, JESUS!
Tis the time (: Relaxation, security and comfort in our own home again. Love it!
That is all for now...Harleigh bug will be here soon and I will let you in on all the juicy details of natural birth...for the SECOND time! It's a breeze (;
Friday, June 24, 2011
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Victorious!
What is a blog?! I've forgotten, seeing how it has been years. Harleigh Grace will be here in two months! That is a shocker..it feels like yesterday I was 3 months pregnant. Time has most certaintly flown by. We are still not in a house, that is also a shocker! But my God is sufficient and He is my provision! No worries...
I was trying to get my feet off the floor recently...and laid back in a great recliner. While sitting there with my eyes closed I began to think upon Jacob. From the time he was born his name meant "supplanter, deceiver or trickster..."
Supplanter means: to take the place of another, as through force, scheming, or to replace. To overthrow or to trip up.
I'm sure we all are familiar with the other two words meanings.
Anyways, every name that I pick for my children I want to mean something great, I want it to be who they are. The meaning of names was also so important in the "bible days" and to some of us today, it still is. Who names their child a name that has that kind of meaning? Deceiver...trickster..supplanter.
Although Jacob was named such a name, he was blessed by God. It took some scheming to get the first-born blessing...but lo and behold, Jacob was blessed by God. We know this because many times the scripture says it. Jacob even says it to his father-in-law, Laban (Genesis 31:42). In the end, this name Jacob was given was a name that he had to live with for the rest of his life. A name that meant something I sure wouldn't have wanted to be labeled as.
While on his way back to his "hometown", he finds out that Esau is headed his way with 400 men. Now, think back to the beginning when Esau is boiling mad because his little brother took his birth right. He said he would kill him, etc. We all know the story. So, wouldn't you be freaking out a little bit if you knew that your angry (with you) brother was on his way to meet YOU with 400 men? Yes, I thought so. So, Jacob reminds God of his promise He made to him so on so forth. (This is not the point of my story, hence my skipping forward!)
Eventually Jacob has split his group into so many smaller groups and sends them ahead of him. All that is left on one side of the river with him are his wives and children. He wakes up in the middle of the night and sends them over too. 1. Who wakes up in the middle of the night and makes a random decision like this? and 2. Jacob gets alone.
Once Jacob gets alone the "man" comes and wrestles Jacob. These two men are wrestling and Jacob is winning. The man says to Jacob, "Let me go, for the dawn is breaking!" And Jacob's response is, "I will not let you go until you bless me!"...Then God changes his name to "VICTORIOUS!"
Have you ever had a moment in your life, where you got alone...and you waited for God to come? Have you ever said, "I will not leave this place until you bless me!?" "God I will wait here until you show up and you CHANGE me." I don't have an alcohol, drug or porn problem. I don't cheat on my husband or murder...(although all sin is the same)...but I do deal with the small issues. I know many times I have gotten alone with God and cried out for change! I want to have victory over even the smallest issues in my heart. The days I may have even lost my temper or patience..the days that I've wrongfully juged a person....I want to be victorious over that!
I love spending my time pushing into God and seeking His face, and I love the times that He is so enticed by my wanting, that He comes to me. It may take a while for that flesh to begin to burn enough for Him to come, but it burns indeed. Sometimes the flesh begins to burn before I begin to seek and He meets me before I ever decide to seek Him.
Anyways, my point of the story is this...we all have to come to a place where we recognize something that is a little off-kilter in our walk with Jesus Christ whether it be small or big, and we put all distractions aside and get alone and wait on God to come and declare us victorious. The main thing is to walk in that victory and own it. Never looking back at who I once was...I am no longer "(insert sin)", I am VICTORIOUS! My dealings are not with the past but with the future and who I've been destined to be.
This touched me in a mighty way, I hope it can do the same for you.
-Victorious!
I was trying to get my feet off the floor recently...and laid back in a great recliner. While sitting there with my eyes closed I began to think upon Jacob. From the time he was born his name meant "supplanter, deceiver or trickster..."
Supplanter means: to take the place of another, as through force, scheming, or to replace. To overthrow or to trip up.
I'm sure we all are familiar with the other two words meanings.
Anyways, every name that I pick for my children I want to mean something great, I want it to be who they are. The meaning of names was also so important in the "bible days" and to some of us today, it still is. Who names their child a name that has that kind of meaning? Deceiver...trickster..supplanter.
Although Jacob was named such a name, he was blessed by God. It took some scheming to get the first-born blessing...but lo and behold, Jacob was blessed by God. We know this because many times the scripture says it. Jacob even says it to his father-in-law, Laban (Genesis 31:42). In the end, this name Jacob was given was a name that he had to live with for the rest of his life. A name that meant something I sure wouldn't have wanted to be labeled as.
While on his way back to his "hometown", he finds out that Esau is headed his way with 400 men. Now, think back to the beginning when Esau is boiling mad because his little brother took his birth right. He said he would kill him, etc. We all know the story. So, wouldn't you be freaking out a little bit if you knew that your angry (with you) brother was on his way to meet YOU with 400 men? Yes, I thought so. So, Jacob reminds God of his promise He made to him so on so forth. (This is not the point of my story, hence my skipping forward!)
Eventually Jacob has split his group into so many smaller groups and sends them ahead of him. All that is left on one side of the river with him are his wives and children. He wakes up in the middle of the night and sends them over too. 1. Who wakes up in the middle of the night and makes a random decision like this? and 2. Jacob gets alone.
Once Jacob gets alone the "man" comes and wrestles Jacob. These two men are wrestling and Jacob is winning. The man says to Jacob, "Let me go, for the dawn is breaking!" And Jacob's response is, "I will not let you go until you bless me!"...Then God changes his name to "VICTORIOUS!"
Have you ever had a moment in your life, where you got alone...and you waited for God to come? Have you ever said, "I will not leave this place until you bless me!?" "God I will wait here until you show up and you CHANGE me." I don't have an alcohol, drug or porn problem. I don't cheat on my husband or murder...(although all sin is the same)...but I do deal with the small issues. I know many times I have gotten alone with God and cried out for change! I want to have victory over even the smallest issues in my heart. The days I may have even lost my temper or patience..the days that I've wrongfully juged a person....I want to be victorious over that!
I love spending my time pushing into God and seeking His face, and I love the times that He is so enticed by my wanting, that He comes to me. It may take a while for that flesh to begin to burn enough for Him to come, but it burns indeed. Sometimes the flesh begins to burn before I begin to seek and He meets me before I ever decide to seek Him.
Anyways, my point of the story is this...we all have to come to a place where we recognize something that is a little off-kilter in our walk with Jesus Christ whether it be small or big, and we put all distractions aside and get alone and wait on God to come and declare us victorious. The main thing is to walk in that victory and own it. Never looking back at who I once was...I am no longer "(insert sin)", I am VICTORIOUS! My dealings are not with the past but with the future and who I've been destined to be.
This touched me in a mighty way, I hope it can do the same for you.
-Victorious!
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Forever loved!
I walk with a heavy heart this week. If the only thing I can do in the wake of tragedy is carry a burden then so be it. A friend lost her husband Monday afternoon. Although I didn't know him as well as I was hoping I'd be able to now that we were back in Meridian, I hurt. Married under a year with a newborn baby at home. I hurt for her more than I've hurt in a long time. I had the honor of being a member of their wedding and watching these two be united as one by and under God.
As I know she was, I asked God many questions. "Why?" being the main one. The first thing I did was walk straight to Caleb, who was seeking God on the very question I was about to ask, and I asked him, "Do we raise him up?" I know God is more than capable of even the biggest thing my human mind could fathom. Raising someone from the dead is not even close to the top of the biggest thing I know God to be capable of. Although it didn't happen, I know that He would have. In these moments it's the last thing anyone wants to hear, but God's plan is so much bigger than we know.
Not only did I question God but I questioned thin air. It's so hard to understand why such a thing would or even could happen to someone so young. God knows he just had a new baby and he knows they didn't even get to spend their first anniversary together. But what I don't know is whose heart was forever changed by this event. What I don't know is what the road would have looked like 5 years from now.
I love this verse: Isaiah 57:1, "Good people pass away; the godly often die before their time. But no one seems to care or wonder why. No one seems to understand that God is protecting them from the evil to come."
That is hope for me...for her. Knowing that God protected Zac from something we could not see. Trusting in his word. Learning to accept His comfort but knowing that He is willing to allow us to greive someone loved. Being thankful for the time he was allowed on earth and thankful for the time God gave us to know him. What good will come from this? Plenty. Not that I can see it yet, but I believe in His word. He has a plan and it is to prosper!
I thank you Jesus for allowing us the time we had to know Zac. For me it was little, but I thank you. I thank you that your plan is bigger! I thank you for the love he was allowed to give to his new family and I thank you for holding them close in this time. I ask for peace that passes all understanding!
I send my love to Hannah and sweet baby Jax.
As I know she was, I asked God many questions. "Why?" being the main one. The first thing I did was walk straight to Caleb, who was seeking God on the very question I was about to ask, and I asked him, "Do we raise him up?" I know God is more than capable of even the biggest thing my human mind could fathom. Raising someone from the dead is not even close to the top of the biggest thing I know God to be capable of. Although it didn't happen, I know that He would have. In these moments it's the last thing anyone wants to hear, but God's plan is so much bigger than we know.
Not only did I question God but I questioned thin air. It's so hard to understand why such a thing would or even could happen to someone so young. God knows he just had a new baby and he knows they didn't even get to spend their first anniversary together. But what I don't know is whose heart was forever changed by this event. What I don't know is what the road would have looked like 5 years from now.
I love this verse: Isaiah 57:1, "Good people pass away; the godly often die before their time. But no one seems to care or wonder why. No one seems to understand that God is protecting them from the evil to come."
That is hope for me...for her. Knowing that God protected Zac from something we could not see. Trusting in his word. Learning to accept His comfort but knowing that He is willing to allow us to greive someone loved. Being thankful for the time he was allowed on earth and thankful for the time God gave us to know him. What good will come from this? Plenty. Not that I can see it yet, but I believe in His word. He has a plan and it is to prosper!
I thank you Jesus for allowing us the time we had to know Zac. For me it was little, but I thank you. I thank you that your plan is bigger! I thank you for the love he was allowed to give to his new family and I thank you for holding them close in this time. I ask for peace that passes all understanding!
I send my love to Hannah and sweet baby Jax.
Friday, March 18, 2011
Transition, Contractions and Birthdays!
Hello all. Time to update, I guess. Did you know that the number 11 means transition? At least that's what I have been told. As most of you know we have been and still are in transition. Transition=Change. I'm not a big fan of change; I like things the way they are and when I'm ready for them to change...well, I'll change them.
BUT, when you ask God to guide you in the right direction, you don't have much control over change. I guess that means I also have a control issue. I never would have considered myself a "control-freak" but I'm beginning to realize that I very much am. I like things a certain way. I enjoy them a certain way. And I want to be the one making them how I want them. Transition is bringing humility to my heart. Transition is allowing me to let go of the reigns for once and to really let God take over and be the controller of every situation.
That doesn't mean it's been easy. Oh, no. Not at all. It's frustrating, complicated and sometimes beyond stressful. The more so it has been, the more I realize the issues God is working out of my heart and life. He is not the reason it is difficult. I am. It wouldn't be so frustrating, complicated and stressful if I would just relax and quit trying to make things happen. It's not about me trying to make things happen, it is about God allowing the perfect will for my family to happen. If I did it "my way", no tellin' where we'd be right now. Oh, how I love how he loves me!
Now, update on Miss Harleigh Grace: She is doing great! My body has been contracting "under stress" and thankfully God has kept the dilation under wraps. No dilating! The Dr's are now not quite sure how many weeks I am?! I'm somewhere between 25-28 weeks..we will be finding out for sure March 31st. Either way, everything is going good and I am just thankful for a healthy baby.
Eden's 2nd birthday is in a week! Can't believe it. Who knew time could fly so fast? So I'll be spending the next few days OFF of my feet (for Harleigh's sake) and attempting to put a birthday together(: I can do this. He gives me strength.
Until next time....
BUT, when you ask God to guide you in the right direction, you don't have much control over change. I guess that means I also have a control issue. I never would have considered myself a "control-freak" but I'm beginning to realize that I very much am. I like things a certain way. I enjoy them a certain way. And I want to be the one making them how I want them. Transition is bringing humility to my heart. Transition is allowing me to let go of the reigns for once and to really let God take over and be the controller of every situation.
That doesn't mean it's been easy. Oh, no. Not at all. It's frustrating, complicated and sometimes beyond stressful. The more so it has been, the more I realize the issues God is working out of my heart and life. He is not the reason it is difficult. I am. It wouldn't be so frustrating, complicated and stressful if I would just relax and quit trying to make things happen. It's not about me trying to make things happen, it is about God allowing the perfect will for my family to happen. If I did it "my way", no tellin' where we'd be right now. Oh, how I love how he loves me!
Now, update on Miss Harleigh Grace: She is doing great! My body has been contracting "under stress" and thankfully God has kept the dilation under wraps. No dilating! The Dr's are now not quite sure how many weeks I am?! I'm somewhere between 25-28 weeks..we will be finding out for sure March 31st. Either way, everything is going good and I am just thankful for a healthy baby.
Eden's 2nd birthday is in a week! Can't believe it. Who knew time could fly so fast? So I'll be spending the next few days OFF of my feet (for Harleigh's sake) and attempting to put a birthday together(: I can do this. He gives me strength.
Until next time....
Monday, February 21, 2011
My Vegas Experience
Our vacation is finally over. It's day 1 from being home and I'm thankful for so much! Caleb and I both had an amazing time while in literally another world...but I found myself being thankful for so much more than I thought possible.
The day we flew out I was beyond anxious. You hear so much about Vegas and it's surroundings, I honestly didn't know what to expect. Caleb, being there before, fore-warned me of the sin but also the beauty. We made our arrival at 4 that afternoon and literally 4 hours later...we were in bed, asleep! We attempted to walk down the strip but time, pregnancy, and disgusting pictures forced us to turn back. It was too early in the week for that.
The next morning, being Valentines, we had made reservations for The Top of the World restaurant. We dressed all fancy (they had a dress code & Caleb looked mighty fine in his suit and tie) and were seated next to the window over-looking the entire city. This place did a 180 degree turn around so we were able to see everything from our seat. Food was nice. Waiters were great. Valentines Day = successful. Post-lunch, we took another stroll down the strip, this time keeping our gazes ahead, not down. I've never seen a street so littered with naked girls. My heart ached for every single girl who felt she had to expose herself in that way. So, I said a small prayer. The closer we got to the middle of the strip the better it got. There was less trash and more super nice hotels. We went in EVERY single one. They were absolutely beautiful and had great stores! After about 2 hours of serious walking...we caught at taxi back to our hotel.
We went to the Cirque du Solei 'Mystere'. A-MAZING! Completely worth the money! I swear, I almost threw up like 10 times because I honestly felt I was going to witness someone die. No joke. They do so many crazy things!! One guy held himself up with one hand 100ft above the ground while holding a huge cube-thingy! It was awesome. Caleb loved it, I loved it. I can't wait to see another!!
There was this awesome 50's diner in our hotel called Roxy's. This was one of the highlights of our trip! They served, probably some of the best food ever while singing old songs! Everytime, I ordered a turkey blt wrap...without the wrap. I wanted, well baby wanted, toasted bread(: ABSOLUTELY amazing. It was well worth 10.99! Not to mention, Roxy's workers were by far the most polite people in the entire city. Also, the sweet monorail information lady who rode with us to MGM one day. I wore my chosen "God" t-shirt one day....she must have been curious(: I also said a prayer for her. I felt more confident in that one!
Hoover Dam and Grand Canyon: Absolutely beautiful. If that had been the only thing we did the whole time, it would have been beyond worth it! God was so magnified that day. He is a beautiful creator and artist. It felt so surreal to actually be in these two places. I never would have thought that I would get to have that experience, and I suggest that everyone make it possible!!
On every street corner there were men (and sometimes women) constantly pushing baseball sized cards into your face. You could clearly tell that these were the only jobs available but it was by far the most annoying experience the whole trip. Each one wore a shirt that said 'Hot Hot Girls Direct to your Room. Call: xxx-xxx-xxxx!!' The baseball sized card was a picture of a nude girl. I was extremely suprised to see that most people were passing them up, telling them no, or taking the card and dropping it back to the ground. There is hope for this city!
The annoying shirt-wearers were the only down-fall of our entire vacation. And even in that down-fall, we were able to see the hope that was still there. This made my heart glad. I have to be honest, it took me a couple of days to quit saying, "EWWWW". After having the epiphany that people are actually refusing the offers I decided "Eww" was not the appropriate word anymore. Another astonishing discovery was that there weren't many people gambling in the casinos! You would think, it being Vegas, that every casino would be full. Nope. Trust me, you have to walk through the casinos to get to ANYTHING in EVERY hotel. Gosh, but the cigarette smoke was ridiculous. Blech!
Alcohol. It was also few and far between. Living in a 'dry' town, even seeing the word beer shocked me! It had been so long since I had seen a place offering any type of alcohol and it took me a day or two to realize I wasn't in Kansas anymore. During the day, I witnessed more people drinking their water, cokes and other odds than a alcoholic beverage. At night the bats came out though...What do you expect in Vegas, huh? With all honesty the only time I actually saw someone in a stupor was at 3:30am on our way to the airport. As soon as the elevator doors opened, BOOM, there they were. I'm pretty sure this girl had no idea where she was, what she was doing...or possibly who she was.
My conclusion of 'Sin City' is this: The name 'Sin City' actually comes from the thought that the mafia used to run Las Vegas. With that, they had their so-called prostitutes. Many people seem to think that anything goes, when in all actuality that is not the truth. Some in the city pride themselves on others coming and 'letting their hair down' so to speak. Some, I said! Most of the locals actually look down on this thought and intend for it to be a family vacation spot and push every other amenity other than gambling and partying. Now, think about this...how many cities have bars? clubs? and 30 minutes from my own hometown are two casinos. Living in my 'dry' city here, I tend to forget that myself. It's nice to remember that my bubble doesn't exist everywhere I go and there are real needs and prayer to be lifted! It is a true eye-opener to remove myself from comfortable and place myself into unfamiliar. I believe that is when you truly find who you are in God. In the places of unfamiliar. When no other believers are close by, what will I do? Will I try and blend in or continue to strive for holiness and stand apart?
At the end of the day, I am glad that we had our "Vegas" experience...maybe not the one most people would be thinking of when they hear of this city, but it was indeed a wonderful experience. My heart was glad to be home where there is grass and sweet tea though(: Grass...another beauty the Lord made! I never thought I loved grass as much as I did. I received a new measure of thankfulness. I'm thankful for grass, sweet tea, my family and my God! I am thankful to know that there is more hope than I had imagined for a town so looked down upon. He is bigger!
-A new believer in greater things!
The day we flew out I was beyond anxious. You hear so much about Vegas and it's surroundings, I honestly didn't know what to expect. Caleb, being there before, fore-warned me of the sin but also the beauty. We made our arrival at 4 that afternoon and literally 4 hours later...we were in bed, asleep! We attempted to walk down the strip but time, pregnancy, and disgusting pictures forced us to turn back. It was too early in the week for that.
The next morning, being Valentines, we had made reservations for The Top of the World restaurant. We dressed all fancy (they had a dress code & Caleb looked mighty fine in his suit and tie) and were seated next to the window over-looking the entire city. This place did a 180 degree turn around so we were able to see everything from our seat. Food was nice. Waiters were great. Valentines Day = successful. Post-lunch, we took another stroll down the strip, this time keeping our gazes ahead, not down. I've never seen a street so littered with naked girls. My heart ached for every single girl who felt she had to expose herself in that way. So, I said a small prayer. The closer we got to the middle of the strip the better it got. There was less trash and more super nice hotels. We went in EVERY single one. They were absolutely beautiful and had great stores! After about 2 hours of serious walking...we caught at taxi back to our hotel.
We went to the Cirque du Solei 'Mystere'. A-MAZING! Completely worth the money! I swear, I almost threw up like 10 times because I honestly felt I was going to witness someone die. No joke. They do so many crazy things!! One guy held himself up with one hand 100ft above the ground while holding a huge cube-thingy! It was awesome. Caleb loved it, I loved it. I can't wait to see another!!
There was this awesome 50's diner in our hotel called Roxy's. This was one of the highlights of our trip! They served, probably some of the best food ever while singing old songs! Everytime, I ordered a turkey blt wrap...without the wrap. I wanted, well baby wanted, toasted bread(: ABSOLUTELY amazing. It was well worth 10.99! Not to mention, Roxy's workers were by far the most polite people in the entire city. Also, the sweet monorail information lady who rode with us to MGM one day. I wore my chosen "God" t-shirt one day....she must have been curious(: I also said a prayer for her. I felt more confident in that one!
Hoover Dam and Grand Canyon: Absolutely beautiful. If that had been the only thing we did the whole time, it would have been beyond worth it! God was so magnified that day. He is a beautiful creator and artist. It felt so surreal to actually be in these two places. I never would have thought that I would get to have that experience, and I suggest that everyone make it possible!!
On every street corner there were men (and sometimes women) constantly pushing baseball sized cards into your face. You could clearly tell that these were the only jobs available but it was by far the most annoying experience the whole trip. Each one wore a shirt that said 'Hot Hot Girls Direct to your Room. Call: xxx-xxx-xxxx!!' The baseball sized card was a picture of a nude girl. I was extremely suprised to see that most people were passing them up, telling them no, or taking the card and dropping it back to the ground. There is hope for this city!
The annoying shirt-wearers were the only down-fall of our entire vacation. And even in that down-fall, we were able to see the hope that was still there. This made my heart glad. I have to be honest, it took me a couple of days to quit saying, "EWWWW". After having the epiphany that people are actually refusing the offers I decided "Eww" was not the appropriate word anymore. Another astonishing discovery was that there weren't many people gambling in the casinos! You would think, it being Vegas, that every casino would be full. Nope. Trust me, you have to walk through the casinos to get to ANYTHING in EVERY hotel. Gosh, but the cigarette smoke was ridiculous. Blech!
Alcohol. It was also few and far between. Living in a 'dry' town, even seeing the word beer shocked me! It had been so long since I had seen a place offering any type of alcohol and it took me a day or two to realize I wasn't in Kansas anymore. During the day, I witnessed more people drinking their water, cokes and other odds than a alcoholic beverage. At night the bats came out though...What do you expect in Vegas, huh? With all honesty the only time I actually saw someone in a stupor was at 3:30am on our way to the airport. As soon as the elevator doors opened, BOOM, there they were. I'm pretty sure this girl had no idea where she was, what she was doing...or possibly who she was.
My conclusion of 'Sin City' is this: The name 'Sin City' actually comes from the thought that the mafia used to run Las Vegas. With that, they had their so-called prostitutes. Many people seem to think that anything goes, when in all actuality that is not the truth. Some in the city pride themselves on others coming and 'letting their hair down' so to speak. Some, I said! Most of the locals actually look down on this thought and intend for it to be a family vacation spot and push every other amenity other than gambling and partying. Now, think about this...how many cities have bars? clubs? and 30 minutes from my own hometown are two casinos. Living in my 'dry' city here, I tend to forget that myself. It's nice to remember that my bubble doesn't exist everywhere I go and there are real needs and prayer to be lifted! It is a true eye-opener to remove myself from comfortable and place myself into unfamiliar. I believe that is when you truly find who you are in God. In the places of unfamiliar. When no other believers are close by, what will I do? Will I try and blend in or continue to strive for holiness and stand apart?
At the end of the day, I am glad that we had our "Vegas" experience...maybe not the one most people would be thinking of when they hear of this city, but it was indeed a wonderful experience. My heart was glad to be home where there is grass and sweet tea though(: Grass...another beauty the Lord made! I never thought I loved grass as much as I did. I received a new measure of thankfulness. I'm thankful for grass, sweet tea, my family and my God! I am thankful to know that there is more hope than I had imagined for a town so looked down upon. He is bigger!
-A new believer in greater things!
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Remember me...
On the way home today, I drove over my favorite bridge. It is on one of these Alabama backroads that I love so much, shaded by the biggest oak trees. Under it runs from the foothills the most beautiful emerald green water. Being a creek it isn't quite see-through, although I wish it was. Sometimes I wish I had 5 more seconds to stop and take in everything I see.
When I was 8 years old, I had this little brown wallet (a mans wallet, because what girl doesn't want to be just like her dad at 8?) that I was given to me by my dad. At this age I still had a huge toybox that fit perfectly at the end of my bed. It was so huge, it came up almost to my chest! One particular day, I was searching and searching for my wallet because I had a dollar to contribute to it's mouth. My man wallet was no where to be found. I sat there in my huge toybox after throwing things over and around it, and for probably the first time I asked God, "God, where is my wallet?". Immediately, I heard the Holy Spirit breathe it into my ear. Guess what? Holy Spirit was right. That was my first true encounter with God that I can recall. The first time I actually heard the voice of God. My faith was made known that day in something, someone who loved me. Yes, I went to church with my parents and I did the Sunday school thing, but never had I been introduced to God in such a way. The God that we talk about...talks back? I stepped out on some faith and curiosity that day and He met me.
Years later in a hurt kind-of rebellion, I told that voice 'no more'. I couldn't listen or talk because He hadn't listened to me. My prayers for a family made whole weren't answered and I wanted to try it my way for a while. Oh, but He still didn't listen...he kept talking!
Sitting with my feet hanging off the end of a pier, in a drunken stupor, I remember shaking my head at God and cursing His name. My faith had been chipped at and it had been too long since I had heard His voice..He left me long ago, at least that is what I told myself. Then He spoke. That sweet voice I had longed for came back to me bringing me to sobriety and awareness. "Remember me..." Those were the words I had heard that night. Tears warmed in my eyes and so did my heart in my chest. I remembered.
I remembered the day that my faith had been made known. The first day I truly heard the voice of God. Moments after finding that little brown wallet, I took off running off our back porch down into our woods. I ran and ran until I reached the small creek that lined our property. I climbed down the 5 foot steep bank and stuck my bare feet into the beautiful emerald green water. From there I ran as fast as you can through water until I couldn't breathe anymore. When I close my eyes, I see that 8 year old girl with her blue jean over-all shorts and tangled brown hair with her hands lifted to the Heavens, running. Just running. Full of faith.
That is why I love my favorite bridge. Not because of anything but my memory of the day I found faith in the One I love. I still remember....
When I was 8 years old, I had this little brown wallet (a mans wallet, because what girl doesn't want to be just like her dad at 8?) that I was given to me by my dad. At this age I still had a huge toybox that fit perfectly at the end of my bed. It was so huge, it came up almost to my chest! One particular day, I was searching and searching for my wallet because I had a dollar to contribute to it's mouth. My man wallet was no where to be found. I sat there in my huge toybox after throwing things over and around it, and for probably the first time I asked God, "God, where is my wallet?". Immediately, I heard the Holy Spirit breathe it into my ear. Guess what? Holy Spirit was right. That was my first true encounter with God that I can recall. The first time I actually heard the voice of God. My faith was made known that day in something, someone who loved me. Yes, I went to church with my parents and I did the Sunday school thing, but never had I been introduced to God in such a way. The God that we talk about...talks back? I stepped out on some faith and curiosity that day and He met me.
Years later in a hurt kind-of rebellion, I told that voice 'no more'. I couldn't listen or talk because He hadn't listened to me. My prayers for a family made whole weren't answered and I wanted to try it my way for a while. Oh, but He still didn't listen...he kept talking!
Sitting with my feet hanging off the end of a pier, in a drunken stupor, I remember shaking my head at God and cursing His name. My faith had been chipped at and it had been too long since I had heard His voice..He left me long ago, at least that is what I told myself. Then He spoke. That sweet voice I had longed for came back to me bringing me to sobriety and awareness. "Remember me..." Those were the words I had heard that night. Tears warmed in my eyes and so did my heart in my chest. I remembered.
I remembered the day that my faith had been made known. The first day I truly heard the voice of God. Moments after finding that little brown wallet, I took off running off our back porch down into our woods. I ran and ran until I reached the small creek that lined our property. I climbed down the 5 foot steep bank and stuck my bare feet into the beautiful emerald green water. From there I ran as fast as you can through water until I couldn't breathe anymore. When I close my eyes, I see that 8 year old girl with her blue jean over-all shorts and tangled brown hair with her hands lifted to the Heavens, running. Just running. Full of faith.
That is why I love my favorite bridge. Not because of anything but my memory of the day I found faith in the One I love. I still remember....
Monday, February 7, 2011
Learning Patience+Pregnancy=Oh, Lord.
Life has been like one of those free falls that catch you and bring you back up at the end. I contribute a lot of the frustration to pregnancy. Things are so magnified/intensified when you are pregnant. I've asked God to teach me how to deal with hormones. We're still working on it.
Man, pregnancy! God has taken this time to do some serious purging in my heart. Starting with patience. I have never been the most patient person in the world. Oh, he's cracking the egg pretty good.
"We prove ourselves by our purity, our understanding, our patience, our kindness, by the holy spirit within us, and by our sincere love." 2 Corinthians 6:6 NLT
I am just waiting on purity, understanding, kindness...etc. Not saying I don't already possess the ability, but surely as I say I have mastered those he'll hit me with another test. Not that I don't want that either...I'm just sayin'!
I have always been told, "Don't ask for patience." Which I find somewhat ridiculous. We want to hold the light of patience. Ahem, we prove ourselves by...patience. Although it can be very annoying and frustrating at times I know that once I finally pass the test of patience, I've conquered a treasure. I want to produce good fruit. I don't want to be cut from the tree!
Patience is also necessary to endure the road of discipleship...I have found this one to be true from experience. Who better to learn how to be patient than from the one who's displayed it so beautifully for all of time?!
Lately, more than ever, I have REALLY been learning that I cannot look to man but to God for all I need. One day when the scars have turned white I hope to share but right now the wounds are still bleeding...
I cannot put my trust in man alone but in the One who created me. I cannot confide in man alone but in the One who loves me. Only has He been the one to show me the way and I will continue to follow that way. In the test of patience, I find the place to say I am thankful for being taught the fruit of patience. Not only in prayer but in scripture. I can see the test in others and I am rooting for them as I hope they are for me. All tests never end, they just become easier with time. Where to next? Oh, kindness maybe....pregnancy is proving I don't have it like I need it(;
-Sydney, soon-to-be Patient(:
Man, pregnancy! God has taken this time to do some serious purging in my heart. Starting with patience. I have never been the most patient person in the world. Oh, he's cracking the egg pretty good.
"We prove ourselves by our purity, our understanding, our patience, our kindness, by the holy spirit within us, and by our sincere love." 2 Corinthians 6:6 NLT
I am just waiting on purity, understanding, kindness...etc. Not saying I don't already possess the ability, but surely as I say I have mastered those he'll hit me with another test. Not that I don't want that either...I'm just sayin'!
I have always been told, "Don't ask for patience." Which I find somewhat ridiculous. We want to hold the light of patience. Ahem, we prove ourselves by...patience. Although it can be very annoying and frustrating at times I know that once I finally pass the test of patience, I've conquered a treasure. I want to produce good fruit. I don't want to be cut from the tree!
Patience is also necessary to endure the road of discipleship...I have found this one to be true from experience. Who better to learn how to be patient than from the one who's displayed it so beautifully for all of time?!
Lately, more than ever, I have REALLY been learning that I cannot look to man but to God for all I need. One day when the scars have turned white I hope to share but right now the wounds are still bleeding...
I cannot put my trust in man alone but in the One who created me. I cannot confide in man alone but in the One who loves me. Only has He been the one to show me the way and I will continue to follow that way. In the test of patience, I find the place to say I am thankful for being taught the fruit of patience. Not only in prayer but in scripture. I can see the test in others and I am rooting for them as I hope they are for me. All tests never end, they just become easier with time. Where to next? Oh, kindness maybe....pregnancy is proving I don't have it like I need it(;
-Sydney, soon-to-be Patient(:
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Continuing this road...
As most of you know we are on a journey back to our hometown, Meridian. If you haven't heard, or are curious of the story..please read the previous post!
After having confirmation of our move, we immediately began searching for a place to live. This search has not been easy. Being self-employed has it's downfalls and the fact that our economy is falling apart does not help either. It didn't take long for me to become somewhat discouraged. It didn't take long for my hopes to begin to pick up either! I began to pray Philipians 4:6-7 over and over again. Anytime I felt the tears coming on, I prayed. That hiss would whisper in my ear all the many obstacles I faced. "You won't have a place to live, everyone needs a house" "You're pregnant, where will your baby sleep?"....on and on. Then I prayed. I made my requests known to God, not just that we would have a place to stay, but that I would be encompassed in His peace. I just wanted peace.
My stresses only lasted a day. God immediately answered my prayers. Through thanksgiving, I asked and received. And thanksgiving I return! I have peace. No, we still don't have a house to stay in until we can buy what we want. BUT, I have peace!!
God is faithful! He remains the same. He gave us a word and on a word we stand. Life is full of obstacles and He's given us the strength to surpass them all! I am excited to continue this journey and come into all that God has for my family. We will never understand why He does what He does, but I am thankful that He has chosen us to do His will where He needs us.
Thank you to those who have taken us up in prayer. There's nothing like friends who love...
He is Faithful!
After having confirmation of our move, we immediately began searching for a place to live. This search has not been easy. Being self-employed has it's downfalls and the fact that our economy is falling apart does not help either. It didn't take long for me to become somewhat discouraged. It didn't take long for my hopes to begin to pick up either! I began to pray Philipians 4:6-7 over and over again. Anytime I felt the tears coming on, I prayed. That hiss would whisper in my ear all the many obstacles I faced. "You won't have a place to live, everyone needs a house" "You're pregnant, where will your baby sleep?"....on and on. Then I prayed. I made my requests known to God, not just that we would have a place to stay, but that I would be encompassed in His peace. I just wanted peace.
My stresses only lasted a day. God immediately answered my prayers. Through thanksgiving, I asked and received. And thanksgiving I return! I have peace. No, we still don't have a house to stay in until we can buy what we want. BUT, I have peace!!
God is faithful! He remains the same. He gave us a word and on a word we stand. Life is full of obstacles and He's given us the strength to surpass them all! I am excited to continue this journey and come into all that God has for my family. We will never understand why He does what He does, but I am thankful that He has chosen us to do His will where He needs us.
Thank you to those who have taken us up in prayer. There's nothing like friends who love...
He is Faithful!
Thursday, January 13, 2011
This journey we are on....
You know those people who say, "I can't wait to get out of this town!"....well, I have never been one of those people. I was born in Meridian, Ms. I grew up in Meridian, and I love Meridian!
Caleb was on Chosen from the beginning of 2006 until the end of 2007. So, two years...
He took a "break" ( I guess you could say ) from the team to prepare for marriage and take care of financial matters. We got married May 3 of 2008. That October I was 4 months pregnant and the thought of Hamilton began to imbed itself in our minds. The Lord started a stirring in Caleb's heart to return. For me it was only a thought. I said, "Maybe one day".
At seven months pregnant, Caleb began to feel this stirring even more strongly and really began to seek the Lord about it in prayer. The thought of moving away from my family with a newborn did not settle well with me. I needed a definite word from God.
Caleb went to work at 8 every morning and I was usually still asleep. This particular morning in my half asleep/awake stage I clearly heard Caleb say, "Pack your bags...you're moving to Hamilton". When I completely woke up, I jumped up and ran in every room in our small home trying to find Caleb. He was no where to be found. I called him at work and asked him did he tell me that and he said no. The strange thing was He finally clearly heard the Lord tell him the SAME thing!! That morning!! Immediately I had peace in my heart. I was ready to move to Hamilton on the word of God.
When Eden was only 3 months old...we moved to Hamilton. It was a hard transition. But we were willing vessels saying YES to the will of God. We knew when we moved that this would only be for a season of our lives. This would not be permanent for us. We expected it would be 5-10 years....at the least! Many times we've tried to make our lives here permanent. We have planted business. Attempted to buy a home. Make deep connections with others, etc. Nothing seemed to work though. Our business just got us by. Our loan wouldn't go through. And the deep connections were far and few between, although there are those we consider friends who stick closer than a brother! I believe God didn't allow the permanent fixes to stick because He knew it wouldn't be long until He called us home.
Six to seven months ago the Lord began to stir in my heart dreams of Meridian. I literally smelled Meridian. I thought about it constantly and missed it a lot. So...I started rebuking a "familiar spirit"! Haha! I told it Hamilton is the place God called us to and I started breaking any ties with Meridian that I might have forgotten about. But this stirring just didn't go away. So, I began praying into it HARD! Dreams I used to have for Meridian (that I had pushed back) started to come forth. I started desiring to do these things. God has hope for Meridian! One day, I said to Caleb, "I miss Meridian"....and he responded with the same statement. I asked him had he been feeling the same things I was and He said yes. Together we began to pray into this.
God has a perfect will for our lives. He knows the right and wrong move and we know that anything we do without His word is in vain. We know that we could move home and it not be the word of God for us and fail. When I say we prayed...we PRAYED!
After Christmas I felt the stirring even stronger! I knew the Lord was saying it was time. We've only lived in Hamilton 1 year and 7 months. Why would He call us to a place for this period of time? "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens" -Ecc 3:1
That is the only answer I got.
Again we say yes Lord to all you have for us. We are willing vessels! We so want to fulfil His call for our lives!!
Our first move, before telling ANYONE, was to go to Mrs. Karen...our spiritual authority. I advise everyone to have spiritual authority in your life! The right order of this was to get with her and tell her everything I felt the Lord was sharing with me and Caleb. She confirmed everything we had been hearing and blessed us on the word of the Lord. What a relief! Having that confirmation is glorious. There were times that I thought I was crazy and just simply missing home.
I am thankful with all of my heart that God brought us here. Although we never had a platform to speak on, or a mic in our hands...we learned so many valuable things that are ETERNAL! We grew as husband and wife, as parents and as a son and daughter of God. We have spent more of our married life in Hamilton than any other place. Our first daughter has spent most of her life (so far) in Hamilton. We have great friends here in Hamilton. This will be a hard transition but beautiful all in the same. I believe God brought us to Hamilton to attain something we can take back to Meridian, that Meridian does not have! Awakening!
I look forward to more tent revivals in the Ben Arthur Davis park. I look forward to lives being totally and radically changed for the glory of the Lord. I look forward to a new journey in our hearts. Our hearts will always be a part of The Ramp and Hamilton. We will stay connected and continue being a part. God has huge plans and I am excited and thankful that He is using us. I am thankful that He is faithful in everything.
To all our Ramp community family: We love you all very much! We will always keep each and every one of you in our prayers. We're not falling off the face of the earth....I promise! Every conference weekend and Sunday night service we can make, we WILL be back! We thank each and everyone of you who have been a part of our lives. Thank you for loving us back.
K, I have to stop now before the tears start flowing.
Caleb was on Chosen from the beginning of 2006 until the end of 2007. So, two years...
He took a "break" ( I guess you could say ) from the team to prepare for marriage and take care of financial matters. We got married May 3 of 2008. That October I was 4 months pregnant and the thought of Hamilton began to imbed itself in our minds. The Lord started a stirring in Caleb's heart to return. For me it was only a thought. I said, "Maybe one day".
At seven months pregnant, Caleb began to feel this stirring even more strongly and really began to seek the Lord about it in prayer. The thought of moving away from my family with a newborn did not settle well with me. I needed a definite word from God.
Caleb went to work at 8 every morning and I was usually still asleep. This particular morning in my half asleep/awake stage I clearly heard Caleb say, "Pack your bags...you're moving to Hamilton". When I completely woke up, I jumped up and ran in every room in our small home trying to find Caleb. He was no where to be found. I called him at work and asked him did he tell me that and he said no. The strange thing was He finally clearly heard the Lord tell him the SAME thing!! That morning!! Immediately I had peace in my heart. I was ready to move to Hamilton on the word of God.
When Eden was only 3 months old...we moved to Hamilton. It was a hard transition. But we were willing vessels saying YES to the will of God. We knew when we moved that this would only be for a season of our lives. This would not be permanent for us. We expected it would be 5-10 years....at the least! Many times we've tried to make our lives here permanent. We have planted business. Attempted to buy a home. Make deep connections with others, etc. Nothing seemed to work though. Our business just got us by. Our loan wouldn't go through. And the deep connections were far and few between, although there are those we consider friends who stick closer than a brother! I believe God didn't allow the permanent fixes to stick because He knew it wouldn't be long until He called us home.
Six to seven months ago the Lord began to stir in my heart dreams of Meridian. I literally smelled Meridian. I thought about it constantly and missed it a lot. So...I started rebuking a "familiar spirit"! Haha! I told it Hamilton is the place God called us to and I started breaking any ties with Meridian that I might have forgotten about. But this stirring just didn't go away. So, I began praying into it HARD! Dreams I used to have for Meridian (that I had pushed back) started to come forth. I started desiring to do these things. God has hope for Meridian! One day, I said to Caleb, "I miss Meridian"....and he responded with the same statement. I asked him had he been feeling the same things I was and He said yes. Together we began to pray into this.
God has a perfect will for our lives. He knows the right and wrong move and we know that anything we do without His word is in vain. We know that we could move home and it not be the word of God for us and fail. When I say we prayed...we PRAYED!
After Christmas I felt the stirring even stronger! I knew the Lord was saying it was time. We've only lived in Hamilton 1 year and 7 months. Why would He call us to a place for this period of time? "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens" -Ecc 3:1
That is the only answer I got.
Again we say yes Lord to all you have for us. We are willing vessels! We so want to fulfil His call for our lives!!
Our first move, before telling ANYONE, was to go to Mrs. Karen...our spiritual authority. I advise everyone to have spiritual authority in your life! The right order of this was to get with her and tell her everything I felt the Lord was sharing with me and Caleb. She confirmed everything we had been hearing and blessed us on the word of the Lord. What a relief! Having that confirmation is glorious. There were times that I thought I was crazy and just simply missing home.
I am thankful with all of my heart that God brought us here. Although we never had a platform to speak on, or a mic in our hands...we learned so many valuable things that are ETERNAL! We grew as husband and wife, as parents and as a son and daughter of God. We have spent more of our married life in Hamilton than any other place. Our first daughter has spent most of her life (so far) in Hamilton. We have great friends here in Hamilton. This will be a hard transition but beautiful all in the same. I believe God brought us to Hamilton to attain something we can take back to Meridian, that Meridian does not have! Awakening!
I look forward to more tent revivals in the Ben Arthur Davis park. I look forward to lives being totally and radically changed for the glory of the Lord. I look forward to a new journey in our hearts. Our hearts will always be a part of The Ramp and Hamilton. We will stay connected and continue being a part. God has huge plans and I am excited and thankful that He is using us. I am thankful that He is faithful in everything.
To all our Ramp community family: We love you all very much! We will always keep each and every one of you in our prayers. We're not falling off the face of the earth....I promise! Every conference weekend and Sunday night service we can make, we WILL be back! We thank each and everyone of you who have been a part of our lives. Thank you for loving us back.
K, I have to stop now before the tears start flowing.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Jesus is a sword. Dividing between flesh and spirit.
As humans we tend to imagine God as who we think He is. We don't truly have knowledge of who He is. Imagining God as one thing compared to who He really is, is such a dangerous place. In our fault we can say, "Oh, he is God, full of grace and mercy." But remember that He is also Just! As a parent, I understand this next statement better. Yes, He is a father...but a father that TRULY loves also disciplines. When I was little I remember my dad spanking me, then turning me around and asking me, "Do you know why I did that? Because I love you!"
In everything we analyze and decide who we think God is. There are so many areas I can go into concerning this but in prayer this morning, God laid something specific on my heart.
"Do you think I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I have come to divide people against each other! From now on, families will be split apart, three in favor of me, and two against- or two in favor and three against. Father will be divided against son and son against father; mother against daughter and daughter against mother; and mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law. -Luke 12:51-53
That is semi-hard to imagine, huh? That Jesus really didn't come to bring peace and unity but division between flesh and spirit. Relationships developed in the flesh and not spirit eventually end in death. Being reared in a christian home, and rearing my children in a christian home is so desireable to me. I love them with all of my heart and could not imagine being seperated from them. Being 155.11 miles away from my own family is hard enough. It is so important to yoke ourselves with those who are like-minded for Christ. This passage not only pushes me to make sure I teach my children the ways of the Lord but also that I pray for my family who does not know Him for who He truly is. I want these people to remain in my life. I want to look beside me and see them running this race too! And if and whenever they stumble, I want to take them by the hand and be an encouragement.
Jesus also states this, "If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple." -Luke 14: 26-27
Ok, you don't have to hate on everybody! This simply means that He should be so loved by you that you will follow him no matter the circumstances! I thought about this verse while watching Ratatoullie with Eden and Caleb last night (Hilarious movie if you've never seen it). Remy, the main mouse, is very different from his family. He loves to cook and he's very good at it! He gets seperated from his family for a while and ends up at his favorite restaraunt, Gusteau's. While there he sits in the chef hat of a terrible cook and helps him cook good meals. Eventually he is reunited with his family. He has been taught that all great chefs do not steal food. He lets his family get the best of him and begins to sneak food to them. Eventually, he lets his whole rodent family into the restaraunt one night to take what they want....and he gets caught!
Although he had commited himself to Linguini(the chef), after some discouragement he encountered, he let his family get the best of him. His loyalty was indeed not to the chef after all.
I see our relationship with Christ this way. When we commit to dying daily and taking up our cross, we put Christ above all. Our loyalty is to Him and him alone. You forsake ALL to take up your cross and follow Him wherever He may lead.
A.W Tozer says this, "Flesh must always be sacrificed to the spirit and the heavenly placed above the earthly, and that at any cost. When we take up the cross, we become expendable, along with all natural friendships and all previous loyalties and Christ becomes all in all." Nicely put.
Although I personally believe that God wants us to enjoy those He has placed in our lives, He also wants those relationships to be equally yoked. I can tell you from experience it is hard to maintain a relationship with someone who is not spiritually in the same place as you. Our lives should revolve around Christ and our spiritual relationship with Him. It is eternally important. Religion (or our relationship with Christ) SHOULD interfere in our private lives. It should be a constant in our lives. He created you and He has the right to be in every crevice and crack. Denying Him that place is a non-devoted heart.
And don't feel that division is the end of the world either! While we know that God knows only the perfect plan in the end, we should trust that. Sometimes division is necessary for God to take us to the place intended for us from the beginning of time. He will not forsake us(: He is a good God in the hard places and the good places. Take the time to draw near to Him in the hard places and soar on the easy roads. He takes all things intended for evil and indeed makes them good!
This is a good test and will show the true intentions of the heart. Definitely not a bad thing(:
In everything we analyze and decide who we think God is. There are so many areas I can go into concerning this but in prayer this morning, God laid something specific on my heart.
"Do you think I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I have come to divide people against each other! From now on, families will be split apart, three in favor of me, and two against- or two in favor and three against. Father will be divided against son and son against father; mother against daughter and daughter against mother; and mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law. -Luke 12:51-53
That is semi-hard to imagine, huh? That Jesus really didn't come to bring peace and unity but division between flesh and spirit. Relationships developed in the flesh and not spirit eventually end in death. Being reared in a christian home, and rearing my children in a christian home is so desireable to me. I love them with all of my heart and could not imagine being seperated from them. Being 155.11 miles away from my own family is hard enough. It is so important to yoke ourselves with those who are like-minded for Christ. This passage not only pushes me to make sure I teach my children the ways of the Lord but also that I pray for my family who does not know Him for who He truly is. I want these people to remain in my life. I want to look beside me and see them running this race too! And if and whenever they stumble, I want to take them by the hand and be an encouragement.
Jesus also states this, "If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple." -Luke 14: 26-27
Ok, you don't have to hate on everybody! This simply means that He should be so loved by you that you will follow him no matter the circumstances! I thought about this verse while watching Ratatoullie with Eden and Caleb last night (Hilarious movie if you've never seen it). Remy, the main mouse, is very different from his family. He loves to cook and he's very good at it! He gets seperated from his family for a while and ends up at his favorite restaraunt, Gusteau's. While there he sits in the chef hat of a terrible cook and helps him cook good meals. Eventually he is reunited with his family. He has been taught that all great chefs do not steal food. He lets his family get the best of him and begins to sneak food to them. Eventually, he lets his whole rodent family into the restaraunt one night to take what they want....and he gets caught!
Although he had commited himself to Linguini(the chef), after some discouragement he encountered, he let his family get the best of him. His loyalty was indeed not to the chef after all.
I see our relationship with Christ this way. When we commit to dying daily and taking up our cross, we put Christ above all. Our loyalty is to Him and him alone. You forsake ALL to take up your cross and follow Him wherever He may lead.
A.W Tozer says this, "Flesh must always be sacrificed to the spirit and the heavenly placed above the earthly, and that at any cost. When we take up the cross, we become expendable, along with all natural friendships and all previous loyalties and Christ becomes all in all." Nicely put.
Although I personally believe that God wants us to enjoy those He has placed in our lives, He also wants those relationships to be equally yoked. I can tell you from experience it is hard to maintain a relationship with someone who is not spiritually in the same place as you. Our lives should revolve around Christ and our spiritual relationship with Him. It is eternally important. Religion (or our relationship with Christ) SHOULD interfere in our private lives. It should be a constant in our lives. He created you and He has the right to be in every crevice and crack. Denying Him that place is a non-devoted heart.
And don't feel that division is the end of the world either! While we know that God knows only the perfect plan in the end, we should trust that. Sometimes division is necessary for God to take us to the place intended for us from the beginning of time. He will not forsake us(: He is a good God in the hard places and the good places. Take the time to draw near to Him in the hard places and soar on the easy roads. He takes all things intended for evil and indeed makes them good!
This is a good test and will show the true intentions of the heart. Definitely not a bad thing(:
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Would this be considered a biography?
I came across a question the other day which I attempted to answer in my head but could not. So I thought the best place to do so would be here. So for those of you who are only aquaintances, enjoy!
Who are you? Enlighten me about yourself...
Here goes...
Keep in mind that I am only 21 and this will more than likely change with time. So I will include those things that have stayed with me along with the "now".
1. I was the eldest child. I definitely think that plays a big part in personality. I didn't have a sibling until I was 5 1/2. My mom always said that even before my sister came along that I wasn't good at playing by myself. I always wanted a friend to play with. That has stuck with me through life. I enjoy people. I could spend all day hanging out with someone even if that meant not talking and just watching movies. I love the presence of people. One thing that has changed in the past 3 years is that I enjoy my alone time also. That is when I enjoy the presence of God.
Onto other things..
2. I will carry on a conversation with ANYONE. Speaking of, here is an example. Caleb and I stopped in Ackerman to have someone look at something on my car before we sold it. Instead of letting Caleb handle it, I stood with the guy and talked about everything possible. I like meeting new people and making friends. It's not too hard for me for the most part. And...I def get along with those who are the same. Aricka Drewery, can carry on a conversation with a wall and I love that about her! Hence, she's a friend(:
3. I spend a lot of time being goofy. Most of my life's hours consist of being insanely stupid. Silly dancing, lip-syncing (bc I have no talent in that area) with a brush and jumping on my furniture. Yes, I remember...I'm still only 21. But I hope I never outgrow the silliness. The best thing about this part of "me" is that I'm married to someone very similar! Caleb has a cb in one of his trucks and we like to drive down the road singing like chinese people through it. He "dings" while I sing. It's very odd, because we can do this for 30 minutes without stopping. We break into crazy dance in our living room ALOT. I don't even have to tell him what I'm thinking...he like...reads my mind. My favorite part is our wrestling matches we have at midnight when we're both SO tired we can barely hold our eyes open. He usually wins. One time he pushed me off our bed (it's at least 4 feet high!) caught me by the feet so I banged my face on the side of our bed. It is a sleigh bed so all I hit was wood. Then I just crumpled to the floor in pain. We laughed so hard even though I was almost positive I broke my nose. We play soccer in our living room nearly every night. I win. I maintain lots of black and blue bruises on my legs. I swear he doesn't beat me.
4. I appreciate life more than anyone I currently know. I've been through it all and have never had it all. I witnessed my mom struggle and have struggled myself in more things than one. I feel that gives me a sense of appreciation. I don't regret the life I've had but am thankful it is what I was given. Lacking creates appreciation. God knew what He was doing. He developed REAL faith within me.
5. Talents- I have none. I don't sing. I danced in high school, but I wouldn't consider it a talent. I took piano for 9 years....and don't remember ONE thing. I can't even read music. No boasting intended but I am quite athletic. I played softball for 15 years. I played on Varsity for my school and also with a tournament team that traveled. I took gymnastics for 12 years and dance/cheer for 4. I made the soccer team but my mom made me quit before our first practice. I played basketball for my school and if I had any interest in tennis I would have pursued that but didn't. Oh, and I did track for a year. Sadly, I can't carry those "talents" if that's what you call it...into my adult life. I wish that they could advance the kingdom in some way but unless the world goes into mass chaos and I had to run a long way...I don't think it would matter. And I can't hit a softball and hope that brings Jesus. No giftings that I know of? yah-dah yah...
6. I think I have a slight sense of humor. My mom and I are pretty funny to hang out with. We crack a lot of jokes and are always laughing about something. I decided after analyzing myself (haha) that I can be a somewhat smart eleck(sp) with my humor. But never hurtful! I'm the type of person that if you have a booger in your nose...I'm going to whisper it in your ear. Don't worry, I'll tell you. But I would not embarass anyone! Not on purpose at least!
7. I'm probably one of the most honest people you meet. Not brutally honest, just honest. (Unless you are a cop and I ran a red light...then I might try and bend the truth some) Terrible, I know!! Not that I run red lights or anything. Yellow means slow down, not speed up. I have actually never had a ticket before. If you ever want to know anything just ask me and I'll tell you first hand. If I ever hear anything about anyone that seems odd...I'm probably just gonna ask them. No need in going through 10 people to find out the truth. I think that can become gossip anyways. I have to say though, it aggravates me when people don't do the same. If you hear something that makes you "think differently" of another person...just find out the truth for yourself! You could have possibly had a good friend indeed! I have learned that taking others for their word is not always the best. People lie! Sad truth, but it is true.
8. This may not even be about me...idk. Yes it is...I love to eat! My dad and I used to have eating contests when I was little. We would see who could eat the most sloppy joe's. I always won! Thankfully, I had this ridiculous metabolism. I love carbs. I love pastas with all of my heart. Mmmm-mmm! Give me a good baked potato with just the right amount of butter and cheese and I'll be your best friend for life. Well, since I love to eat, I enjoy cooking. I hate cleaning up afterwards...but putting that food in my mouth makes it all worth it! I even ate lunch at school. Most people don't do that. I would ask my friends who didn't eat all theirs if I could have the rest. That's how much I enjoyed it.
9. I love movies. Action, romance, comedy, suspense (not scary), you name it...I'll love it. If my job could be movie critic I would be a millionaire. Every day all day I would watch movies. Obviously, I have a life so I can't do that. Also, it would interfere with my time with God. I definitely can't have that. Maybe tv/movies is of the devil. Haha!!
10. I love my family more than anything in this world. Not only my husband and children, but ALL of them. My mom is my best friend. I call her everyday, literally 3 times or more. I love her so much because she doesn't always take my side. I know that seems a little crazy but I love how she weighs out a situation and gives me her conclusion. She's not some "spiritual" person. She's very simple and I love that. She's my "down to earth" bestie. My dad, I love simply because he is my dad. He's not always done things right by no means but at the end of the day he is my dad. He is a definte redneck living the redneck life. I think that's all I have to say about that! You will find him with a beer in his hand, a dip in his mouth and a few cuss words slingin around. He tried to teach me to cuss at people. Yes. That is him. I believe for some real salvation there. I could go on about every single person in my family and why I love them but that would be boring to you. Regardless, I love with all of my heart. I don't half-way do it. I've been made fun of a lot for having "too much" compassion. Call it what you may, but I sure do love the people in my life. I love them in their gross sin because He loved me in mine. And I believe through that, they'll see Him.
Who am I? Non-spiritually speaking...I'm Sydney Rachel Cagle Culpepper. Wife to Caleb Culpepper, by far the best earthly friend I'll ever have. Mother to a wonderful, full of life daughter and soon to be angel. A true friend to those I love. I enjoy a lot of laughs and some good food and most importantly friends who are real. I'm my own person. I love who I am and everything about me that makes me, me.
Who are you? Enlighten me about yourself...
Here goes...
Keep in mind that I am only 21 and this will more than likely change with time. So I will include those things that have stayed with me along with the "now".
1. I was the eldest child. I definitely think that plays a big part in personality. I didn't have a sibling until I was 5 1/2. My mom always said that even before my sister came along that I wasn't good at playing by myself. I always wanted a friend to play with. That has stuck with me through life. I enjoy people. I could spend all day hanging out with someone even if that meant not talking and just watching movies. I love the presence of people. One thing that has changed in the past 3 years is that I enjoy my alone time also. That is when I enjoy the presence of God.
Onto other things..
2. I will carry on a conversation with ANYONE. Speaking of, here is an example. Caleb and I stopped in Ackerman to have someone look at something on my car before we sold it. Instead of letting Caleb handle it, I stood with the guy and talked about everything possible. I like meeting new people and making friends. It's not too hard for me for the most part. And...I def get along with those who are the same. Aricka Drewery, can carry on a conversation with a wall and I love that about her! Hence, she's a friend(:
3. I spend a lot of time being goofy. Most of my life's hours consist of being insanely stupid. Silly dancing, lip-syncing (bc I have no talent in that area) with a brush and jumping on my furniture. Yes, I remember...I'm still only 21. But I hope I never outgrow the silliness. The best thing about this part of "me" is that I'm married to someone very similar! Caleb has a cb in one of his trucks and we like to drive down the road singing like chinese people through it. He "dings" while I sing. It's very odd, because we can do this for 30 minutes without stopping. We break into crazy dance in our living room ALOT. I don't even have to tell him what I'm thinking...he like...reads my mind. My favorite part is our wrestling matches we have at midnight when we're both SO tired we can barely hold our eyes open. He usually wins. One time he pushed me off our bed (it's at least 4 feet high!) caught me by the feet so I banged my face on the side of our bed. It is a sleigh bed so all I hit was wood. Then I just crumpled to the floor in pain. We laughed so hard even though I was almost positive I broke my nose. We play soccer in our living room nearly every night. I win. I maintain lots of black and blue bruises on my legs. I swear he doesn't beat me.
4. I appreciate life more than anyone I currently know. I've been through it all and have never had it all. I witnessed my mom struggle and have struggled myself in more things than one. I feel that gives me a sense of appreciation. I don't regret the life I've had but am thankful it is what I was given. Lacking creates appreciation. God knew what He was doing. He developed REAL faith within me.
5. Talents- I have none. I don't sing. I danced in high school, but I wouldn't consider it a talent. I took piano for 9 years....and don't remember ONE thing. I can't even read music. No boasting intended but I am quite athletic. I played softball for 15 years. I played on Varsity for my school and also with a tournament team that traveled. I took gymnastics for 12 years and dance/cheer for 4. I made the soccer team but my mom made me quit before our first practice. I played basketball for my school and if I had any interest in tennis I would have pursued that but didn't. Oh, and I did track for a year. Sadly, I can't carry those "talents" if that's what you call it...into my adult life. I wish that they could advance the kingdom in some way but unless the world goes into mass chaos and I had to run a long way...I don't think it would matter. And I can't hit a softball and hope that brings Jesus. No giftings that I know of? yah-dah yah...
6. I think I have a slight sense of humor. My mom and I are pretty funny to hang out with. We crack a lot of jokes and are always laughing about something. I decided after analyzing myself (haha) that I can be a somewhat smart eleck(sp) with my humor. But never hurtful! I'm the type of person that if you have a booger in your nose...I'm going to whisper it in your ear. Don't worry, I'll tell you. But I would not embarass anyone! Not on purpose at least!
7. I'm probably one of the most honest people you meet. Not brutally honest, just honest. (Unless you are a cop and I ran a red light...then I might try and bend the truth some) Terrible, I know!! Not that I run red lights or anything. Yellow means slow down, not speed up. I have actually never had a ticket before. If you ever want to know anything just ask me and I'll tell you first hand. If I ever hear anything about anyone that seems odd...I'm probably just gonna ask them. No need in going through 10 people to find out the truth. I think that can become gossip anyways. I have to say though, it aggravates me when people don't do the same. If you hear something that makes you "think differently" of another person...just find out the truth for yourself! You could have possibly had a good friend indeed! I have learned that taking others for their word is not always the best. People lie! Sad truth, but it is true.
8. This may not even be about me...idk. Yes it is...I love to eat! My dad and I used to have eating contests when I was little. We would see who could eat the most sloppy joe's. I always won! Thankfully, I had this ridiculous metabolism. I love carbs. I love pastas with all of my heart. Mmmm-mmm! Give me a good baked potato with just the right amount of butter and cheese and I'll be your best friend for life. Well, since I love to eat, I enjoy cooking. I hate cleaning up afterwards...but putting that food in my mouth makes it all worth it! I even ate lunch at school. Most people don't do that. I would ask my friends who didn't eat all theirs if I could have the rest. That's how much I enjoyed it.
9. I love movies. Action, romance, comedy, suspense (not scary), you name it...I'll love it. If my job could be movie critic I would be a millionaire. Every day all day I would watch movies. Obviously, I have a life so I can't do that. Also, it would interfere with my time with God. I definitely can't have that. Maybe tv/movies is of the devil. Haha!!
10. I love my family more than anything in this world. Not only my husband and children, but ALL of them. My mom is my best friend. I call her everyday, literally 3 times or more. I love her so much because she doesn't always take my side. I know that seems a little crazy but I love how she weighs out a situation and gives me her conclusion. She's not some "spiritual" person. She's very simple and I love that. She's my "down to earth" bestie. My dad, I love simply because he is my dad. He's not always done things right by no means but at the end of the day he is my dad. He is a definte redneck living the redneck life. I think that's all I have to say about that! You will find him with a beer in his hand, a dip in his mouth and a few cuss words slingin around. He tried to teach me to cuss at people. Yes. That is him. I believe for some real salvation there. I could go on about every single person in my family and why I love them but that would be boring to you. Regardless, I love with all of my heart. I don't half-way do it. I've been made fun of a lot for having "too much" compassion. Call it what you may, but I sure do love the people in my life. I love them in their gross sin because He loved me in mine. And I believe through that, they'll see Him.
Who am I? Non-spiritually speaking...I'm Sydney Rachel Cagle Culpepper. Wife to Caleb Culpepper, by far the best earthly friend I'll ever have. Mother to a wonderful, full of life daughter and soon to be angel. A true friend to those I love. I enjoy a lot of laughs and some good food and most importantly friends who are real. I'm my own person. I love who I am and everything about me that makes me, me.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Woah! I love this blog...
Today was our 14 week 1 day doctor appointment. Suprisingly they told me I needed to gain weight. I've lost 5 pounds since my first appointment. At least I wasn't told not to eat more(: I love eating! The past week I've been feeling little baby ball up on my left side and I can even see him/her. I would swear that I felt them move last night but God said not to make a vow you can't keep and honestly I could be slightly delusional so I'll not swear.
I'll have to say, lately I have felt slightly delusional. Kick it to baby hormones or whatever you feel like, but I've been on a one-way street to telling it how I see it. Trying not to get frustrated/emotional at what could be considered minor details is very hard. So, unfortunately I've been wanting to punch some folks lately..and in my state I'm scared to say I wouldn't. Caleb said to me today, "If you could cuss, you would...wouldn't you?" So, today I read about self-control and holding my tongue. Thank you Holy word of God. Don't judge me. If you have a problem with that don't be nosey and read my blog! See, that's what I'm talking about. It just comes out. Thankfully, I can backspace this if I want. But...seriously don't take my honesty out of context, please?!
Speaking of emotions. We're doing owner financing with the couple we're buying our house from and the sweet wife died Sunday. She has battled cancer for many years and so has her husband. Unfortunately...or I guess I should say fortunately, considering she's pain/sick-free, the Lord decided it was time for her to come home. They are like grandparents to us. No lie. They love us and we love them dearly! In my akwardness, I don't know how to handle death. I never have. I just kind of run the other way. I already know that nothing I say can make them feel better and I seriously freak out when I get in their presence. Well, while in Wal-Mart reading sympathy cards trying to pick out the most appropriate one....I cried. Truly, I will miss Mrs. Judy. She had that funny bossy attitude towards her husband but in her eyes all you saw was love. Mr. David almost broke Caleb down when he spoke with him on the phone. We have prayed with them nearly everytime we've been to their home. Speaking healing over each of their bodies. The second time we met him, he said he believed since his dad had died, God had sent us to them for prayer. I know he's right.
Spiritually, God has had me in like 10 different places. I'm not sure if He's wanting me to take my pick or what? So, I'm in a little of this and a little of that everyday. The Jezebel spirit, Romans 14 and character. Okay, so it's not 10 but with everything else I have going on in my day it feels like it!
Lessons I've learned today? Never drive a vehicle with Caleb in it. Just let the man drive. I'm telling ya! He's bossy(: We got a good laugh at the end of the day though!
Well, if you think dreams mean anything.....I have had 3 dreams we're having a boy! I would be delighted(: Of course, if it is a girl I will be just as delighted! Boy names: Noah Bryan or Koehn Reighns, we can't decide. Noah-comforter, Bryan-strength (that's like a crazy oxymoron). Koehn-Priest, Reighns-meaning in itself. Girl names: Oh my goodness, you don't want to go there! I'll give you a little rundown. Note: We CANNOT agree. Willow, Piper, Scarlett, Shiloh, Mychal, Laine, Khloee, Emma-Grace, Hadlie....yeah, told ya. Middle names: Grace, Rose or Rain. If it happens to be a girl, I pray God gives me a dream of an exact name because it's stressin' me ouuutttt!
Good News: We sold my car! Yes, thank you Jesus! Now, for sale still: 02 Chevrolet Avalanche, 95 Honda Shadow(I think) It's a motorcycle, 90-something Toyota thingy...anyways. We're cleaning house! After selling all of our motor-things, we'll only have Caleb's diesel and me a new vehicle(: Yay!!
For you Vegas haters: Have you been there before? Did you know that a cruise is just as "sin-filled"? Or you neighboring store parking lot!? Sometimes the home next door has worse things going down. I know it's "the name". Everyone associates Vegas to the whole "sin-city" thing. Well let me explain....
1. This is the first reason we chose Vegas. Caleb went there WITH HIS PARENTS when he was 12. He loved it and has ALWAYS said he wanted to take me there.
2. All you can eat buffet's. I mean what the heck? Yes, please take me. (they're CHEAP)!
3. TONS of shows that are...ahem, PG. No boobies! Hello, "Disney's The Lion King"....among COUNTLESS others.
4. Sweet hotel for $30 a night. Yes, you read right. Did I mention we're in the tallest hotel and can see everything? We have a spa in our hotel. And a themepark on top of it....Chhhyyeaaah!
5. God said HE went to the darkness.
6. Um, I'm pregnant. Do you seriously think I'm going to bust up in some topless, hoo-ha showing, booze passin' round show. No. Think again. How tasteless....
7. Even if I wasn't impregnated I would not be looking at other girls doobles, much less letting my husband...
8. Yes, I like a Georgia Peach....a VIRGIN Georgia Peach. And I will partake of one. Yummy...
9. Have you ever asked yourself this question: If I stay in my cute little bubble (Yes, I totally believe God will bring them to me) BUT if I stay in my bubble, what about those who don't come? What about Peter? His shadow passed over people and they were healed! Seriously, don't underestimate my God!
10. I'm convinced that anyone who would even slightly question the thought of us taking a vacation in Vegas indeed does not know us at all. If your first response to this is, "Oh, that place is full of sin"....you've let me down. My first thought was, "HECK YEAHHHH!" I'm a grain of salt. I'm made in the image and likeness of a Holy God. I can change an atmosphere! You may think small but I think big! Pessimism is not allowed in my home. Maybe I'm a little over optimistic. But I'd rather be too much than too little. Sometimes we assume more than we should. Just sayin'..
11. I'm gonna have a baller time. With my baby bump and all(: I might meet a few celebrities. Attempt to hug em' and then tell them about Jesus. So, we don't need prayers for our salvation, just prayers for those we meet.
I totally laughed at what I just wrote. I just want some of you to think a little more open-mindedly (is that even a word?). Anyways, God is way bigger than the box we put him in. He has the capability to do above and beyond the biggest thing we can think of. Vegas is small in his eyes. But I know God put this place on our heart for a reason. What better way to spend a vacation than introducing others to Someone so Great!
I love each and everyone of you very much! I am happy and ecstatic about our trip and I know God is too! Have a blessed day(:
I'll have to say, lately I have felt slightly delusional. Kick it to baby hormones or whatever you feel like, but I've been on a one-way street to telling it how I see it. Trying not to get frustrated/emotional at what could be considered minor details is very hard. So, unfortunately I've been wanting to punch some folks lately..and in my state I'm scared to say I wouldn't. Caleb said to me today, "If you could cuss, you would...wouldn't you?" So, today I read about self-control and holding my tongue. Thank you Holy word of God. Don't judge me. If you have a problem with that don't be nosey and read my blog! See, that's what I'm talking about. It just comes out. Thankfully, I can backspace this if I want. But...seriously don't take my honesty out of context, please?!
Speaking of emotions. We're doing owner financing with the couple we're buying our house from and the sweet wife died Sunday. She has battled cancer for many years and so has her husband. Unfortunately...or I guess I should say fortunately, considering she's pain/sick-free, the Lord decided it was time for her to come home. They are like grandparents to us. No lie. They love us and we love them dearly! In my akwardness, I don't know how to handle death. I never have. I just kind of run the other way. I already know that nothing I say can make them feel better and I seriously freak out when I get in their presence. Well, while in Wal-Mart reading sympathy cards trying to pick out the most appropriate one....I cried. Truly, I will miss Mrs. Judy. She had that funny bossy attitude towards her husband but in her eyes all you saw was love. Mr. David almost broke Caleb down when he spoke with him on the phone. We have prayed with them nearly everytime we've been to their home. Speaking healing over each of their bodies. The second time we met him, he said he believed since his dad had died, God had sent us to them for prayer. I know he's right.
Spiritually, God has had me in like 10 different places. I'm not sure if He's wanting me to take my pick or what? So, I'm in a little of this and a little of that everyday. The Jezebel spirit, Romans 14 and character. Okay, so it's not 10 but with everything else I have going on in my day it feels like it!
Lessons I've learned today? Never drive a vehicle with Caleb in it. Just let the man drive. I'm telling ya! He's bossy(: We got a good laugh at the end of the day though!
Well, if you think dreams mean anything.....I have had 3 dreams we're having a boy! I would be delighted(: Of course, if it is a girl I will be just as delighted! Boy names: Noah Bryan or Koehn Reighns, we can't decide. Noah-comforter, Bryan-strength (that's like a crazy oxymoron). Koehn-Priest, Reighns-meaning in itself. Girl names: Oh my goodness, you don't want to go there! I'll give you a little rundown. Note: We CANNOT agree. Willow, Piper, Scarlett, Shiloh, Mychal, Laine, Khloee, Emma-Grace, Hadlie....yeah, told ya. Middle names: Grace, Rose or Rain. If it happens to be a girl, I pray God gives me a dream of an exact name because it's stressin' me ouuutttt!
Good News: We sold my car! Yes, thank you Jesus! Now, for sale still: 02 Chevrolet Avalanche, 95 Honda Shadow(I think) It's a motorcycle, 90-something Toyota thingy...anyways. We're cleaning house! After selling all of our motor-things, we'll only have Caleb's diesel and me a new vehicle(: Yay!!
For you Vegas haters: Have you been there before? Did you know that a cruise is just as "sin-filled"? Or you neighboring store parking lot!? Sometimes the home next door has worse things going down. I know it's "the name". Everyone associates Vegas to the whole "sin-city" thing. Well let me explain....
1. This is the first reason we chose Vegas. Caleb went there WITH HIS PARENTS when he was 12. He loved it and has ALWAYS said he wanted to take me there.
2. All you can eat buffet's. I mean what the heck? Yes, please take me. (they're CHEAP)!
3. TONS of shows that are...ahem, PG. No boobies! Hello, "Disney's The Lion King"....among COUNTLESS others.
4. Sweet hotel for $30 a night. Yes, you read right. Did I mention we're in the tallest hotel and can see everything? We have a spa in our hotel. And a themepark on top of it....Chhhyyeaaah!
5. God said HE went to the darkness.
6. Um, I'm pregnant. Do you seriously think I'm going to bust up in some topless, hoo-ha showing, booze passin' round show. No. Think again. How tasteless....
7. Even if I wasn't impregnated I would not be looking at other girls doobles, much less letting my husband...
8. Yes, I like a Georgia Peach....a VIRGIN Georgia Peach. And I will partake of one. Yummy...
9. Have you ever asked yourself this question: If I stay in my cute little bubble (Yes, I totally believe God will bring them to me) BUT if I stay in my bubble, what about those who don't come? What about Peter? His shadow passed over people and they were healed! Seriously, don't underestimate my God!
10. I'm convinced that anyone who would even slightly question the thought of us taking a vacation in Vegas indeed does not know us at all. If your first response to this is, "Oh, that place is full of sin"....you've let me down. My first thought was, "HECK YEAHHHH!" I'm a grain of salt. I'm made in the image and likeness of a Holy God. I can change an atmosphere! You may think small but I think big! Pessimism is not allowed in my home. Maybe I'm a little over optimistic. But I'd rather be too much than too little. Sometimes we assume more than we should. Just sayin'..
11. I'm gonna have a baller time. With my baby bump and all(: I might meet a few celebrities. Attempt to hug em' and then tell them about Jesus. So, we don't need prayers for our salvation, just prayers for those we meet.
I totally laughed at what I just wrote. I just want some of you to think a little more open-mindedly (is that even a word?). Anyways, God is way bigger than the box we put him in. He has the capability to do above and beyond the biggest thing we can think of. Vegas is small in his eyes. But I know God put this place on our heart for a reason. What better way to spend a vacation than introducing others to Someone so Great!
I love each and everyone of you very much! I am happy and ecstatic about our trip and I know God is too! Have a blessed day(:
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)