What do you deserve?

I am sure that you have heard many times from people, "you deserve that." One day I will blog about my testimony and maybe some of you would say I deserve ___________. But the truth is we don't deserve anything but death. Oh did I type say that out loud. Yes I did! The only thing that we all deserve in this life is death but guess what as Beth Moore says "the creator promised death and delivered life!
" Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!

In Romans 8:31-32, it says, "What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all – how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?" God loved us so much that he did not spare his ONLY Son! Could you imagine taking the life of your ONLY child for the world? For this world that we live in today! Just think what Abraham must have been thinking when God asked him to take his son, Isaac, and sacrifice him. God was testing Abraham at this moment and boy how I wish I could have the discipline, obedience, faith and unconditional love that Abraham showed that day. (Genesis 22:1-19) Don't you know if it was you or I being asked to do this, at least I can speak for myself, that I would be thinking okay Lord I am trusting that I really am not going to have to go through with this request you have asked of me. Thank the Lord he is not asking us to do that today but we are asked to make sacrifices each and every day.

Think about the title of this blog, "What do you deserve?" What would your response be if I met you today and asked you this question? Would you be honest with me and yourself about what you truly deserve? Would you tell me you deserve a new car; the latest gadget; a shopping spree; to be debt free; what would it be? I don't deserve anything that I have but you can bet that I am truly grateful for everything that has come in and out of my life. I really don't even deserve God's forgiveness but He sent His ONLY Son to die on the cross; to die a horrible death for MY SINS and He still loves me. That just blows my mind that we serve such an awesome, loving, forgiving, gracious, merciful, wonderful, unconditional Father.

If we go back a few more verses from what we just looked at it states in Romans 8:28 "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." In my bible it says in the sidelines: "Let's be crystal clear here. God works everything in believers' lives for their "good." This doesn't mean that everything works for pleasant lifestyles, enjoyable futures and happiness. The "good" here, though it isn't defined or specified, is to be understood as a spiritual and eternal "good." God uses everything in believers' lives – and often the difficult things in their lives – to remake them, to transform them into the likeness of his Son. Everything that happens to us – the easy, the difficult, the grief, the pain, the joy – has one purpose to make us more like Jesus."

So again I ask the question today: What do you deserve? I would love to hear from each of you and what you are struggling with in your personal walk.

What will you do today to be more like Jesus?

{For Such A Time As This}

I am reminded daily that I am not in control and that God does have a perfect plan for my life. As I have been keeping up with my FB friends, it is hard for us to remember this when we are waiting on the Army to bring our spouses home; waiting on doctors to find out what is wrong with us; waiting for our homes to sell; waiting on a job to open up; waiting on time for little babies to be born to this world; waiting, waiting and more waiting….

I know I continue to reference this bible study by Beth Moore: Esther It's Tough Being A Woman but this is good stuff and she is a gifted writer…anyway. In Esther 4: 14 Mordecai is telling Esther some important words that will forever change her life! He says "For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?" I can't say it better than Beth and I am not good at paraphrasing so this is what Beth continues to say on the matter. "Not only are you royalty but you have been placed in your sphere of influence, regardless of the size you perceive it to be. "for such a time as this." Ecclesiastes 3:2 tells us there is "a time to be born and a time to die." God cut out those exact perimeters for you and me on the kingdom calendar so that we would be positioned on earth right now. Likewise, Acts 17:26 tells us unflinchingly that God "determined the times set for [us] and the exact places that [we] should live." You see, even your current location is part of the set-up for your kingdom destiny." (pg. 97 Esther, It's Tough Being a Woman) Wow, if this does not hit your square in the face I don't know what will!

I am so reminded convicted each and every second that I am not in charge! God has a plan for my life and I need to "be still and know that I [He] am God." I must die to self everyday and remember that He will guide my steps. As Psalms 62: 7 clearly instructs me "My salvation and my honor depend on God, he is my mighty rock, my refuge." Sometimes we have no idea why we are going through certain problems but God knows. I received an email yesterday that depicted this perfectly. You see a man and many others carrying a cross and he is pleading with God to take the cross from him. So each time he is crying out to God, God cuts part of the bottom off the cross so it gets lighter and lighter. Once he gets to a canyon to cross, the others use their cross (since it is long enough) as a bridge to cross over but he cannot cross over because he continued to ask God to make his burden lighter. Sometimes we must bear the burden of our cross so that we may cross over the bridge to the other side. By going through the valley we are able to rise up and be stronger. Our witness becomes stronger each time we go through the valley and rise up victorious through Christ.

"We complain about the cross we bear but don't realize it is preparing us for the dip in the road that God can see and we can't. God promises you a safe landing not a calm passage."

"Who knows but that you have come to ________________ for such a time as this?"

Fill in the blank and just remember that God knows why you have come to this time. He will see you through to the other side.

Faithful Even When We are Faithless

It has been almost a month since my last post. Life just seemed to stop when my husband returned home from Afghanistan. It is hard to stay in your routine that you have had for almost a year when your other half comes home. It is such an adjustment when you have another adult living in your "our" home. So I am going to try really, really hard to start writing ever day after my quiet time.

I am in week 6 of my Beth Moore Study Esther, It's Tough Being a Woman and this is the most intense study that I have taken thus far. I have taken other Beth Moore studies and this one has challenged me spiritually and mentally as a wife, mother and a woman. Today Beth brought up 2 Timothy 2: 13, but I feel we must see the whole context of this scripture so let's back up to verse 11 "Here is a trustworthy saying: If we died with him, we will also live with him;'" if we endure, we will also reign with him." If we disown him, he will also disown us; if we are faithless, he will remain faithful, for he cannot disown himself", isn't this wonderful to hear because if you are anything like me my faith is not evident in my life every day. I have days where I think I give it over to the Lord but then I dwell on the matter that I just gave to Him.

My husband, Josh, and I just talked about this on Monday in relation to our upcoming move to Hattiesburg, MS. I tend to bring a lot of undue stress on myself because I am a procrastinator, CAN YOU RELATE? I like to think it is because of my free spirit but it is because I am distracted by so many things going on around me and I want to do it when I want to do it, just selfish if the truth be known. I know none of you out there are like that, ahem. No matter what I do or don't do God is still Faithful. What a comforting thought to know that He is still Faithful, in the midst of my faithlessness. God gives us encouragement to be Faithful in His word. We I need to be reminded of this daily and to spend that quiet time with my Lord on a daily basis. When I do this I am being filled up with the Holy Spirit and it becomes easier for me to be faithful in this faithless world.

The Joy Challenge: Day 9: A Yellow Balloon and Red Pumps

What kind of title is that you may be asking yourself? After I dropped my children off at preschool, I saw a yellow balloon floating down the street as if it had somewhere to be…where could this balloon be going on such a day as this…
If I were really great, or even the least bit good, I could write a story to go with this but I am not… this little balloon just brought a smile to my face because it was as if I could see it through the eyes of my children and thinking of the questions they may be asking about this yellow balloon.
I thought this was the one thing that I was going to write about but my friend, Elizabeth and I went shopping for a pair of boots! Yes boots, you notice I did not write a cute pair of brown boots at the top…no I wrote about a pair of red pumps! Well I could have also written about those cute brown boots and the cook black boots and yes the oh so chic purple pumps! Yes, I bought 4 pair of shoes tonight! This is not like me at all but it was buy one get one ½ off! I know, I know…I am saving my honey money right=)
Well my honey is coming home tomorrow and I went with the intentions of buying a pair of brown boots to go with my outfit but I am wearing a red shirt so the red pumps would look great! I think the red pumps would be great with anything! I don't normally have a shoe fetish but tonight was sooooo much fun! I am sure you know what is going to bring me Joy tomorrow before I ever write about it ;)

The Joy Challenge: Day 8: playing 20 questions with my husband

I got to talk to my honey on the phone Wednesday night and it was wonderful. We talk for almost 2 hours until I started getting very sleepy from some medicine I took earlier. I feel like during this deployment that we have found that first love again, I know we have only been married for 4 years but we were like high school kids last night and it was so much fun just getting to know him all over again. And we only have 2 more days to have to endure being apart! The great thing about Friday is not only is he coming home but he is coming home for good! He will never have to deploy again!

What were the 20 questions you ask, well, that is not the important thing about today's joy it was the joy in playing it and rekindling a love and fire! I know not what you wanted to read but those 20 questions may make you and me blush ;)

good night to all…remember God is good and he has a big plan for each of us!

The Joy Challenge: Day 7: Hope

Today was a great day! We are that much closer to seeing daddy and I am reminded by God that He is still in charge and that he will never leave me! I dropped my sweet peas off to preschool, ran errands, signed up for Curves, ate lunch with a friend at Lovin' Spoonful Café downtown and had a wonderful time….worked out for the first time in about a week (this felt great!) Off to pick up my sweet peas from preschool and run more errands.

The first being to the local Best Buy to see if I could get a plug in charger for computer (by the way that is why I didn't post these for the last couple of days, no laptop life). We I was excited to find out that I could return my other one and get a full credit YEAH! Something simple like that what is can do for your joy for the day. Well it gets better.

We go to our next stop, Sam's Club, to get the staples of our home: dog food, diapers, toilet paper and cheese. I know what a combo. Well we were completely out of 3 of the 4. The cheese was just a bonus. The shopping was not the best part but the walk to the car….We saw a rainbow and not just any rainbow but a double rainbow….It was beautiful and to see the excitement on my children's faces was priceless. In Genesis 9: 8-13, a rainbow was a sign from God that he will never send a flood to destroy all of life again. This gives us hope that even though we as a nation probably deserve this fate but God loves us and HE ultimately loved Noah to make such a promise to last eternally…

The Joy Challenge: Day 6: Knowing my limits

If you are anything like me, then you tend to take on too much and then just blow up at everything and everyone around you because you are the one that has taken on too much! Well I am learning to read my body and what emotions I am feeling and realizing when it is time to say no, time to go home, time to go into my room and just shut the door….

Tuesday will be two weeks ago that I had sinus surgery and today I was feeling a lot of sinus pressure and on top of that had not 1 but 2 needed children…they both seemed to be fighting for my attention and this just make my heart hurt because I can't give them that attention that each of them is desiring. We went to dance and gymnastics on this beautiful, windy morning. We made it through the morning of getting dressed and having breakfast….but them once we got to class and I took Sydney to her dance class she didn't want to stay and I had to be in class with Noah so what is a mother to do when she is the only one (daddy a million miles away but not for long=)). I did what only a good mother does…yep I put her in the class stayed with her a few minutes so she could gain her confidence and then slowly eased my way out so Noah and I could go to gymnastics.

Well about 5 minutes into her class here she comes running to me like she has just lost her best friend. Before she shows up Noah is acting like he normally does, a boy, not listening, not doing what he is suppose to do….but magically when his twin sister shows up he wants to do it because she is doing the stretches….oh the bond they have. But I have to explain to her that this is Noah's class and she can't do the activities. That is hard for a 3 year old to really comprehend. I convince her to go back to her class and of course stay with her a few minutes and shoe her it is fun. She is comfortable and I slowly ease out again.

By the end of class we have some sort of meltdown of 3 year olds, mommy's head is pounding and this is where I feel the presence of God saying this is one of those times for me to know my limits and call it a day before I do or say something I regret. So we packed up and went home, fixed a great lunch and all went down for a nap! The Lord is teaching me so much through my children and I am grateful for each lesson that I am learning.

The Joy Challenge: Day 5: Bible Study

I am realizing more and more that God is calling me to work with women in a women's ministry. I really enjoy leading a Bible study with other ladies and finding out more about their lives, their struggles, their strengths and their weaknesses. We all need other Godly women in our lives to help hold us accountable. I am not sure how God plans on using me to fulfill his plan but "here I am send me!"

Can't believe I just said that but it is true…God wants us to be obedient to him and his calling and if we are obedient then he will bless the ministry as well as our own lives. What an awesome God we serve. More on this tomorrow…my battery is dying but I am becoming more aware of what is truly bringing me joy and I am thankful that all my senses are aware of this journey that I am on to deliberately seek out daily joy!

The Joy Challenge: Day 4: Sweet Friends

God brings people in your life everyday and there will be a day when your paths will no longer cross but until that day comes we must appreciate those special people in our lives and try to figure out what God would have us learn from them, teach them, appreciate about them…

Have you ever had that special friend in your life that just knows the right things to say at just the right time…they know what you need before you even ask…they drop everything to help you when you are in need…they know your deepest secrets and can actually keep them…they are there when you need a shoulder to cry on…lend an ear to listen to you and not give advice, just let you vent…they give you a hug…

I have a sweet friend who came into my life last year and we have become best friends…Elizabeth you are such sweet dear friend and I am truly going to miss you when we move but God has great things in store for both of us and we will be running that Christian way farm soon! This dear friend will watch my children when I need to go to work, run errands, or just get some much needed rest….well on Saturday she was like my knight in shining armor coming to my rescue…she helped me get my house ready for my open house, then watched the kids while I had the open house. I know this doesn't sound like much but when we all woke from our naps I had the worst headache so she took my children to her house for a Bonfire and dinner, brought them back home and got them in the pj's , teeth brushed and glass of milk so they were ready for bed…she even pulled down my sheets so I could just climb into bed…God knew I needed her that day…

I pray that each of you reading this has someone like this in your life…we , as women, need a "girlfriend"…someone we can confide in, share our struggles with, laugh with, cry with, be ourselves and jus have fun… if you don't have someone like this I pray that god will bring a sweet friend in your life soon so you can enjoy life with a "girlfriend". Thank you Elizabeth for being such an inspiration to me as a friend, wife and mother.

The Joy Challenge: Day 3 ~ Coffee

I know what you are probably thinking, Coffee, are you kidding me, that brings you joy. I have not always been a coffee drinker and if I did drink it, it was with lots of cream and sugar….

I took this picture right before our training class today…which was on 4 traits of highly successful people…

Well not a lot has changed since my first taste of coffee but I just love the thought of pouring a cup, wrapping my hands around a nice and toasted mug and just taking a deep breath and letting the aroma of the coffee fill every ounce of space in my nose….she is crazy…I know….Coffee actually the smell of it takes on a whole new meaning or rather appreciation for me since my sinus surgery on the 2^nd of this month…. My sense of smell is heighten and I can actually breathe, yeah

I am one of those that like to bring my own coffee mug from home with me to work or someone's house because I just absolutely love my mugs….we got them from pier 1 when we got married and they are so me! As I am typing I am trying to think about God in this big scheme of coffee and this is where I wish I were a writer and the words could just flow from my mouth with such grace but they don't…but who is to say I can't work on it…I am trying to do better about finding Joy in my daily routine, trying to set goals for 2010 in my real estate career (for Hattiesburg, MS when we get down there) and working on being a better wife and mother by taking a awesome Bible study by Beth Moore, "It's tough Being a Woman".

The Joy Challenge: Day 2: Fall and all the Colors of Fall

Today I found myself thinking differently, feeling different, acting different….Could this Joy challenge really be working and could I actually be loving life again? Granted my children were going to preschool today, we got up early, already had their backpacks ready the night before, has all their clothes out and ready on their changing table, gave baths, got their favorite morning beverage ready – "hot milk" , breakfast ready and this was all before 8:00 am. Well to those of you who don't know me that is a big feat for me because I am known for being late!!!!

This is one of my favorite times of the year because of the changing leaves, the crisp air in the mornings, the smell of hot chocolate, wearing sweaters and scarves, cuddling under a blanket outside beside a bonfire, the crinkling of the leaves as you walk on them and the laughter from little ones when you throw leaves up in the air and when you get to jump in a big pile of leaves….what could be more fun than that and what could bring you more JOY?

God knew what he was doing when he made the different types of trees…He loves color just as much as we do and He knew in these cold months that color and sun do wonders for our spirits!

What is your favorite tree? I think my favorite tree has to be the maple because of how vibrant the colors of the leaves can get from bright red, to orange and yellow….what a site to see here in the hills of Tennessee. If you have never been up through Chattanooga, TN during the months of September, October and the first part of November then you need to get in your car and drive because the colors on the horizon will just take your breath away!

God gives us a beautiful canvas to look at each and every day but we must stop and "be still and know that I am God"…We are in such a hurried world that we don't take the time to see what God has provided for us even in our own backyard. A lot of times I take the simple things in life for granted and need to be reminded to slow down and look around me because I am blessed beyond words.

CONTEST: I’ve GOT it and Now I’m “re” gifting it to YOU

CONTEST: I’ve GOT it and Now I’m “re” gifting it to YOU

fun contest! have a great JOYFUL day!

The Joy Challenge: Day 1~ Waking up in God’s Glory

I am in the midst of struggling with anger so I decided to take this challenge of deliberately finding Joy…so for the next 40 days I am in search of finding Joy…..

For the first time in a while I woke up with a joyful heart and was actually excited about what the day had in store….

While reading Heart To Heart With Holley, http://blog.dayspring.com/, I came across her last day of the 40 day challenge of finding Joy and my Lord knew exactly what I needed to see last night while looking through my favorite blogs.

It has been such a challenge for me to find that joy that I so desperately long for in the midst of all that is going on in my life.

God still reigns on the throne and He still is in charge of every detail of my life but I need to let Him be in charge and take over the reins….

For his anger is but for a moment,
and his favor is for a lifetime.
Weeping may tarry for the night,
but joy comes with the morning.

    Psalm 30:5

My Joy did come in the morning just as this scripture says and my faithful Father knew what I needed!

Nap anyone

today , after much anticipation of this day, I sent my honey on his way back to work...

"to the army" as Sweet Pea says

Sweet Pea and Dragonfly did so good and gave kisses and hugs and watched as daddy got on the plan. Not for long though, not for long....

With the excitement and all the things we did over the last two weeks

spent time with family

lunch date with honey and a movie

New Orleans Audubon Zoo

New Orleans Aquarium

a few days at the "fish camp"

got an offer on our house

wrote an offer for a fellow army wife

played, played, played,

I am exhausted....

so today we took a 3 hour nap and it felt great!

We didn't go down until 4:15 and woke up at 7;15, that would be p.m., and I think I could have just slept through the night. Now it is time to slip into dream land again....until tomorrow!

cleansing waters

What a joy it is to be able to get up and actually have quiet time first thing in the morning. As I sit here in the stillness of the first part of my day I am reminded of the wonders of my God. Many of us don't get the chance to get up before anyone else to have that quiet time before something interrupts our thoughts. But today I had just a few minutes to enjoy what God had created.



The waters were still and I am reminded of several things.

First, the power that water has on the creation of the world in which we live. "And God said, "Let there be an expanse between the waters to separate water from water." So God made the expanse from the water above it. And it was so. God called the expanse "sky." And there was evening, and there was morning-the second day. "(Genesis 1: 6-8)

When you are on the Gulf Coast, you are still reminded of the power that Hurricane Katrina had on the land. It is still hard to imagine the power of water. When we look at a glass of water it is something simple and something that we drink but when it is joined with millions of gallons the power that it takes on and the damage that it can do to things in its path.

Second, water nourishes our body.

Our bodies are made up of 55-75% water depending on our ages and sexes. We must drink water to keep our bodies hydrated, just like we need to spend time with God to nourish our souls.

And lastly, water cleanses our bodies.

Have you ever gone more than a day before you were able to take a bath (you know you have)? When you are so dirty and you are able to take a bath, oh how good it feels to become clean again. In this same way Jesus is the water that truly cleanses our bodies. When will you allow time with Jesus so that he may be the cleansing water in your life?

AmAzInG GrAcE

God is amazing! What a whirlwind the past month has been but God still proves to be amazing! In the midst of my daily trials and struggles, I can still find comfort in knowing that my Jesus loves me and cares what I am going through.

On Friday, I couldn't seem to get moving and get my booty in the car to travel to Mobile, Al for my uncle's funeral. This was very hard for me for a number of reasons: 1)to be honest, I was mad that I was doing this by myself and really wanted Josh to be with me, 2)tired and didn't want to travel again, 3)was just not ready to say my last goodbye to my uncle, 4) not sure how the next 24 hours was going to go....

We had a good trip and the monkeys were really good for me. We got their about 6:30 pm and went straight to the funeral home for the wake. This was hard but my uncle looked great and I know that he is not in any more pain. What a time of celebration and a time of showing others the comfort we can find in our Savior! Well off to dinner we went and then to bed. Long night with a potentially broken rib or just a really bruised rib!! That is another story....

The next morning we get ready to head to the church and it is here that I love the child like faith....As a mother I hesitated to let my children see their great-uncle lying in the casket, but death is a part of life. I explained to them that he was asleep and now with Jesus and that they were having a big party in heaven. Sydney then says "with pink balloons". I said "yes with pink balloons, Uncle Johnnie would love that". How sweet to see life through the eyes of a child. During the service, Sydney asked me "what is his name up there?" I said "you mean uncle Johnnie", she said "yes". She asked me again "what is his name up there in the bed?" How sweet is that.

I had the honor to sing "Amazing Grace" and what a chance to be a witness for God to a church full of people. This is not a time of sorrow but of rejoicing and singing for GOD! It has been 5 years since I have sung in front of a church so this is normally a very nerve racking thing for me but I could feel God's presence. I was not nervous at all and the notes came out right. As I look over to my family and see the tears in their eyes and I can rejoice in the fact that I will see my uncle again one day and will see all my family and friends again one day as long as they believe that Jesus Christ is their Lord and Savior!


Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,That saved a wretch like me....I once was lost but now am found,Was blind, but now, I see.
T'was Grace that taught...my heart to fear.And Grace, my fears relieved.How precious did that Grace appear...the hour I first believed.
Through many dangers, toils and snares...we have already come.T'was Grace that brought us safe thus far...and Grace will lead us home.
The Lord has promised good to me...His word my hope secures.He will my shield and portion be...as long as life endures.
When we've been here ten thousand years...bright shining as the sun.We've no less days to sing God's praise...then when we've first begun.
Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,That saved a wretch like me....I once was lost but now am found,Was blind, but now, I see.

Heavy heart

The past month has been so long and full of so many changes, illness, events, and just daily living. I have not been up to par for what seems like this entire deployment. Josh and I laughed about all the "silly" things that I have done:

• fell and hit my head and hurt my thumb in the wee our of the night and had to take the monkeys with me to the ER;
• traveled to visit family for Easter;
• slipped on some pine straw after their preschool program so off to the doctor I went to have my foot/toe seen about which by the way still hurts and this was back in May!!!!;
• needed my first round of antibiotics for a sinus infection and looking back now I probably needed the drugs way before May;
• my best friend from high school got married (I was one of her bridesmaids and made the wedding cake in my dad's apartment and another friends home in Macon, GA) (side note: if you ever try to bake anything away from home just image having to bring all your cake decorating tools and then bake with 2 year old twins at your feet)
• visited family so the monkeys could go on Mimi and Pop's boat =)
• waiting for preschool , patiently waiting for preschool=)
• received another round of antibiotics while in MS, still feeling pretty rough!
• a long time friend of our family started declining (he has been battling MS for over 15 years)
• still feeling like a truck hit me and an elephant was sitting on my face~! went back to the doctor for yet another round of antibiotics (this time with predisone and a nasal spray=( )
• CT scan of my sinus passages to see how much fluid is still in there and if I have any polyps. uuuugggghhhh
• now today, my uncle has passed away....I know death is part of this life but it is still hard and the human in me struggles with it but the FAITH aspect prevails! My uncle wants me to sing Amazing Grace at his funeral! I have not sung in such a long time and the last time he heard me sing was at my mom's funeral October 1999.

My heart is so heavy and I so want/need my honey at times like these but at times like these I do know that I have my Jesus to lean on to find that comfort.

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

what a fun night!

Well life is good, feel terrible but life is good. My dad came this morning at 9:45 am and will be here until Tuesday so nap time can begin without interruption.....hahaha

About 10:30 am I took a much needed shower to shave my legs, wash my hair and then get into a nice HOT bath with bath oil, a magazine and peace & quiet! Wow how great you feel when you are clean! Yes if you are a mom you realize there are some days that you don't get a shower much less when you feel like crap. I put some deep conditioner in my hair while getting in the tub, so yes I had to get in the shower again. To say the least I am squeaky clean! I then proceeded to color my hair and wow I feel great! Just want to give a shout out to GOD for letting me be born in this day and age of hot showers, razors and hair color! The simply things in life.

We took the kids down to the Thursday Art Walk downtown. Went to my new favorite store Ingredients and ordered Sydney a bracelet. They had two artist in their Sharla Adams with Designs By Sharla. Check out her website: www.designsbysharla.net I am excited to see what she will make for my spunky little girl! Will post pics when I get the bracelet. The other vendor was a women after my own heart: Tammy Hyatt with Hyatt's Custom Cake and Confections. Check out her website : www.hyattscustomcakes.com . I did not get a chance to talk to her because she had several waiting to talk but she had some great samples. Sydney loved her truffles!

We made our way around the corner and Sydney said she wanted some pizza for dinner. I told here we were going somewhere that she would be able to get pizza..."I love some pizza. Pizza, pizza, I love pizza" all while doing a dance. My girl loves food! We enjoyed a great dinner at The Blackhorse Pub and Brewery: www.theblackhorsepub.com ....YUMMY! Beer Cheese Dip is the best!

ON our way back to the car we got a little dance show from you guessed it Sydney! The car was at the red light playin some booty dancing music and we know whose child she is, uuuummm yeah she started doing the booty dance and they just loved it. the car behind them rolled down their window and played some more booty music and she just loved it and danced with her mama even more. It was precious and priceless!

My dad is a big fan of "doo waap" music as he calls it and Sydney is becoming one too. she tried so hard to learn the words and sing along with "papa". He loved every minute of it. Tonight was such a good night. We all needed it after the long week we have had around this house!

26 days left till R&R!~

I did it~ running

I did go and get those running shoes yesterday and am hoping to try them out today if it does not rain on me. I have 4 weeks till Josh gets home so time to put it in overdrive to get this body healthy....well after about 5 handfuls of chocolate chips last night is not a very good start to that goal. Today I woke up in a good mood and then I don't know what happened but my anxiety level went crazy. I don't know what my problem was but I thought it would be a good idea to take a run. I did pretty good, not sure how far I ran but will clock it later today and let you know. Off to a good start as far as the running goes. So now I need to figure out how to put on my blog my daily running log. It felt really good to run and would be even better if I coul do it without a stroller and earlier in the morning. A little at a time.

Now today I need to hang those new curtains and return some to Target. I will post before and after pictures.

Running....

I was reading a friends blog and then found my way to the R3 site and looked over the times for the 4th annual R3 run. I so long to have that desire to run again and actually enjoy it and not think the whole time- how much longer. Running is challenging, a total body workout, a great stress relief, time to think, have that "me" time, and so many other things but , yes a but, but why can't I seem to get excited about it. I see people running and think "I can do that", "I want to do that", "what great shape I would be in if I would do that...", uuuggghhh! Then as I looked down the page of the running results to look at each category, I see people in their 50's, 60's an 70's running and with awesome times! Yes a man who is 71 ran the 5K in 30:33! Wow!!!! I can only hope to be in that great of shape to be exercising much less running at the age of 71. Okay I only have 34 years to train to that point! hahaha, okay my goal this week is to head to the R3 store and get some new running shoes (ones that the Velcro will not keep coming off)(my old running shoes are about 3 years old so it is time! Check back and see if I actually accomplished this or not and see where these running shoes will take me.....

It has been a while...I know

Wow, I can not believe that is has been over a month since I have written anything. Well what can I say, life has been crazy. What has happened in the last ummm 50 days give or take a few days......
life,
taking care of very independent two year olds,
missing my husband,
cutting grass,
my best friends (high school) wedding- which I was in,
my best friends wedding cake- which I made,
missing my husband,
had in-laws come visit,
had my dad come visit a couple times,
trimming tress,
carpet replaced in the house,
painted my bathroom,
bought a new comforter for our bed,
touch up paint in whole house,
packed up more things,
had mirror in master bath framed and outlet moved,
missing my husband,
going crazy chasing after independent two year olds,
got sick,
cutting mile high grass,
exercising,
forgetting to pay the water bill, uh oh big time!,
working with a few clients,
missing my husband,
trying to explain to a 2 year old that their daddy is coming home soon,
trying to get motivated to cook for me a 2 two year olds,
traveled to Mississippi for a week,
watching my children light up when they are with their grandparents,
watching my little girl gain the confidence to put her head under water and swim with floaties,
cutting even more grass,
catching up with friends,
missing friends,
meeting new friends,
appreciating life and all God's blessings,
cleaning house or should I say trying to keep this house clean,
missing my husband,
wondering what God is going to bring into our lives next,
dreaming of that bakery,
thinking how proud I am of my husband & how much he is growing w/ his relationship w/ God,
watching my little ones fall asleep next to me and thanking God for his many blessings!

GOD is amazing! Good night all, sleep tight.....

Happy 4th

Wow what a day! We had a great time with friends cooking out and playing in the pool. Lots of laughs, food and fun. Did you see my facebook comment earlier today....well Sweet Pea came outside and told me she went poo poo in her room....GREAT! Well what great friends I have they helped get together supplies but of course I had to clean it up! haha, as Sharon said "she loves my kids but will not clean up their poop off the floor" haha, what you don't want to clean up runny poop! These great friends also got together and cleaned up the kitchen! Thank you!

We then took a nice long nap~ what a sweet way to wake up to 2 little ones climbing in bed with you! even better when they go back to sleep with you! About a hour later Sweet Pea told it was time to get up...nothing like a bossy one!

Off to post to watch the fireworks and enjoy time with friends. The kids enjoyed getting to ride a ride, yes only one ride because they the sirens went off telling up a tornado warning was in effect. GREAT what fun! We all headed back to the blankets and packed up to head home which was an adventure all in itself. We got to the car and I got a call from my nerdy friend to seek cover so we stopped at the shopette. Nothing like taking 6 kids in the shopette waiting for a tornado to service, well it did not thank God so we headed home and are now tucked in our beds safe and sound.

Thank you to all the military families and the sacrifice that they go through for us to be able to celebrate this day in freedom! GOD BLESS YOU!

Following in Your Footsteps

As I was reading an article from Homelife I realize what type of man I want my little boy to grow up to be~ Godly. In the article it says,' "Manhood, as defined by the Bible, requires a man to put the needs and best interests of others before his own. It's about living sacrificially. A man uses his strength and influence to help others and defend those who cannot defend themselves. Read how manly the following verses sound and how they speak powerfully to a man's heart: "I rescued the poor...and the fatherless who had none to assist him...I made the widow's heart sing...I was eyes to the blind and feet to the lame. I was father to the needy; I took up the case of the stranger. I broke the fangs of the wicked and snatched the victims from their teeth" ' (Job 29:12-13, 15-17, NIV).

WOW....doesn't that just make you want to go out and search for that man right now. If we had all the men in the world like this we wold not be in the shape we are in as a country/planet! I wish I could just quote this entire article. It just really spoke to me and today being father's day it means that much more to me. It is time for all the men to rise up and be the Godly men that God has called them to be. We are following in your footsteps men, so rise up and take the oath. " In the movie Kingdom of Heaven, a dying knight speaks the following masculine challenge to his son:
Be without fear in the face of your enemies,
Be brave and upright that God may love thee,
Speak the truth even if it leads to your death,
Safeguard the helpless.
That is your oath!"


Excerpts from June 2009 HOMELIFE magazine pg. 17 "A Noble & Dangerous Man" by Rick Johnson.
"Kingdom of Heaven," directed by Ridley Scott (Twentieth Century Fox Film corp, 2005)

On A Journey

Life is a journey that we all must take but what journey are you taking? My days have been filled with so much chaos the last couple of weeks that I have found myself lost in the midst of my own journey. It is so amazing how God works each and everyday that if you are not paying attention sometimes you will miss the little things. I have noticed that when I do not spend quality time with God that my day does not go smoothly and I become stressed very easily. I have had a lot going on with work that it has taken away not only from my time with God but with my children. I have been short with them over little things. I always see this pattern in my life that when things get busy in one area the other areas of my life suffer and to me the most important areas of my life are God, husband and my little sweet pea and dragonfly!

I was determined today to have a good day and get out of this funk that I have been in. I had some coffee this morning, spent some time reading a study, Living Free, and then we went on a long bike ride. Thinking the bike ride would be an enjoyable event. Well event says it all. Remember that I have felt a little chaotic lately so that spilled over to my "suppose to be pleasant" bike ride. Sweet Pea and Dragonfly were whiny and I can't do whiny!@!@ They are 2 1/2 I get it but really just site back there in the doodle bug and enjoy the ride. I am the one doing all the work here is what I am thinking. Yes I know you can tell I am having a day, week, whatever.....

Get a call about the truck on the "pleasant" bike ride. He comes to take a look and says he will let me know. Days that I wish it would just sell! Called another lady who was interested but they bought something else. Hopefully this last call that I returned is the one who will by the truck.....

Wow, this journey of life is always an adventure and I will continue to keep my head up, eyes opened, ears tuned to see what God has in store for me on this daily ride.

"But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness." Hebrews 3:13

WOW, What a week!

This week has been to say the least a HUGE challenge for me.

Monday:
I accomplished my weekly trip to the commissary for groceries. Well I saved $10.30 in coupons, how awesome is that! Got home had lunch, put up groceries, put them down for a nap and I think I may have taken one that day as well. I planted more plants and cut the grass today. What a feeling of accomplishment when you have a completed yard.

Tuesday:
We ran a few errands and checked on the condo I have listed to see if the tenant was out yet....NOPE. We are suppose to close on Friday with the new buyer. We then went to Jump Zone to have lots of fun. My babies are growing up because they went down the slides all by themselves without me. Granted they had the girls next door with them to encourage them. My little babies are not babies anymore. We went to Hobby Lobby to get some things to make daddy a father's day gift. I found some great things for the kids and myself as well, oopps. Came home and off to Napland we all went....yes another nap this week and it is only Tuesday. Something about some nighttime planting. Lovin it.

Wednesday:
Noah's appointment. He is improving so much with his speech! We are sooooo proud of him. Off to take a look to see if tenant is out yet....NOPE. I decided we would go to the PX to get some weed and feed and we, of course, found a few other items (batteries for elliptical, watering wand to water those great ferns, a flashlight for my car emergency kit). Off to lunch and then home. Lots of phone calls about the condo issue and closing at the end of the week. May have sold the truck! Mimi and Pop came in late tonight, YEAH!!!!

Thursday:
We woke up at 8 am which was such a nice gift. I then took the monkeys upstairs for a surprise: mimi and pop. They were so tickled about them being here and waking up to find them here at their house. We got to talk to Josh for a few minutes and then off to a termite inspection, while Pop cooked his famous breakfast of fried eggs, grits, biscuits and bacon. Didn't get to eat with them but it was still good at 10:30 am. My pour sellers of this house have been troopers through it all: dishwasher broke, new one installed, water damage from new one and on and on but they are doing the right thing and GOD is good. Lazy day somewhat in the midst of still trying to deal with the condo which will not close until Tuesday. Took a nap, which was much needed with the stress of work and my joints hurting this week. Had a great dinner, prepared by Mimi: Shrimp and Sausage with pasta, fresh squash and zucchini, salad and bread. UUUUMMM good. After dinner walk with everyone and off to beds the monkeys went. Watch a good movie with the in-laws and then off to bed to type. Good day overall. God is good.

Friday:
Blessings unknown but it will be good I know because of my GOD.

The Joys of Playing in the Dirt

I have had the best two days. I started off my Sunday morning just totally refreshed and ready for the day. I got the monkeys ready for church, fixed breakfast, cleaned up the house and out the door by 9:30 am. Yes, this is a big deal for me....the worship service was so amazing and just uplifting for me.

I will have to tell you more about the sermon later but just remember these two things. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength and Love your neighbor as yourself. Enough said......If we would get SELF out of the way the world would be a better place, work would be better, marriages would be better, our families would be better, and our country would be better.....OKAY enough about that.....

Then from church we went to Lowe's to spend some birthday money....flowers on sale for $.50 whewwho!!!! I bought a lot for $91.00.

I just love different size pots just randomly placed. UUMMM what a great feeling.

The way my back porch looks now with ferns and pots filled with trailing petunias is so calming! Just a haven to come to at the end of a long day! Just wish my honey was here to enjoy it with me.

Well I also cleaned up our garden area which my friend Sharon will be excited to hear....I planted to Beef Master tomatoes, Golden Jubilee tomatoes, cinnamon Basil and Sweet Basil and the funny things is I thought I picked up green peppers, well we will have lots of HOT banana peppers, oh well.

Yes I took all these pictures tonight! More day light pics later.

I also put my blueberry plant in the garden as well...not producing yet like Sharon's but I am praying it will soon. Didn't put it in the ground as soon as she did....who me, procrastinate.

In cleaning up the garden area I mean pulling out the weedeater and going to town on some seriously tall weeds. Turned to soil and pulled weeds with the help of my little monkeys. Since I had the weedeater going (if you know weedeaters, as a woman, they are the hardest things to get started) I thought I would just weedeat around the entire yard as well as my neighbors since I was planning on mowing on Monday. I am glad that I did!

Well this morning I was blessed with sleep. We all slept until 8 am. I would not believe it. Obviously I worked them hard too! I mowed the grass today and the place just looks great!

Because of the Brave

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YPN8H_B3674&feature=email

Thank you for all our men and women who serve for our freedom and to those who have lost their life.

Give it AWAY! What are your kids sleeping on?

Give it AWAY! What are your kids sleeping on?

Vera Bradley Giveaway

Vera Bradley Giveaway

Special Day

Do you ever just wake up with such joy in your heart? Today was one of those days, granted it is my birthday today but it wasn't that...it was just feelings of joy and knowing that I am blessed beyond measure. I have a God who adores me, a husband who cherishes me, children who love me, family who are there for me, no matter what and friends who are there to laugh with me and support me. I am truly blessed and I owe it all to my Jesus. He is the best gift ever. I hope that each of you have a special day everyday!

Jeremiah 29:11

flat on my back

do you ever wonder why things happen....maybe God getting your attention...well it could be God wanting me to slow down and me being clumsy....slipped on some pine straw this morning after Sydney and Noah's preschool spring program. I am not sure if I broke a toe or not but it is swollen and hurts, update on that tomorrow after a trip to the doctor.

"Be still and know that I am God." Today was a day to reflect on the last year for Sydney & Noah as they finish their first year in preschool. Milestones are precious and how I wish daddy was here to witness those times. God has a perfect plan and continues to bless our family each and every day. This week I also finished a 10 week Bible study of Breaking Free by Beth Moore. Wow what a journey and I must confess it could have been a deeper journey for myself is I would have done everyday worth of homework. There are still areas that I need to work on and learn to let God be in charge and for myself to become bolder for Christ. During my study I met some wonderful ladies and I pray that God will continue to bless them and open doors for them, as well as help through those strongholds. Remember if we give it to God, He will work it out but we have to let go completely and know that His will is best. Till tomorrow......

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Life as a mom

What a sweet sight I was privileged to witness- Noah grabbing Sydney's hand so they could dance together....sometimes they just take my breath away and how sweet they can be to each other...then other times they can beat the stew out of each other....the love that twins have for each other is not like anything that I have seen before....they truly love each other and have that connection...they will love each other, hugs and kisses, beat each other up, play and run around giggling but watch it if you mess with the other sibling....they will defend each other in a heartbeat....they miss the other when they are not around and as I write this they are tackling each on the couch and screaming and crying...what love is this!

We had a great day in the midst of my sore throat. Blessings to all.

Mother's Day is coming

Hey all you moms out there, check out this great giveaway at http://www.madamedeals.com/. There are so many great websites out there to get free items and just words of wisdom. More later....

You Hide, I Seek

This weekend was filled with lots and lots of rain, the smell of fresh baked french-style country bread, naps, movies, giggles, and a good game of hide and seek.

I just love the sound of my sweet toddlers laughter when I find them hiding in oh so obvious spots (like Sydney's bed) and then they say mommy you hide, I seek....Sydney wanted to hide with me and Noah find us but I explained to her that he does not understand that he is the one seeking and not the one hiding. He loves it when he and sissy go hide and mommy goes to find them. She kept insisting (and if you know her little (rather BIG) personality) then you know how this came out of her mouth: "mommy you hide, I hide and Noah seek" I kept trying to explain to her that Noah doesn't want to to that so I convinced her that we would seek and Noah would hide. Well we tried to accomplish this by sitting in her bed and counting while Noah went to hide over on the floor beside his bed. When we were done counting he jumped up and just giggled. It was so precious.

Little moments like this fill my heart with such joy and know that it won't be like this for long. they will be grown before we know it, that is what my daddy keeps telling me. Oh the words of wisdom from him. Slow down and focus on those sweet babies is what he tells me and enjoy every minute.

To Make You Feel My Love

I was on the Old Red Barn Co. blog earlier just reading a few of her post. While I was reading the song "Make You Feel My Love" came on. I can relate to the words of wanting my husband to feel my love thousands of miles away from me. I hope that you have someone in your life that makes you feel loved and you would go to the ends of the earth to make them feel loved. Life is too short to miss those little opportunities to bring a ray of sunshine their way.

It is amazing how our God works in the midst of this world. He is our "refuge and our fortress". We need to turn to Him to daily to help us in our walk. He also wants to make you feel His love. Are you at a crossroad in your life, not sure which direction you should be traveling. Well He will show you if you allow Him to come into your life, not just one area but all areas of your life.

A group of ladies from our FRG group got together Friday night for a bible study. The book is titled Psalm 91 by Peggy Joyce Ruth. It goes over each line of the psalm and gives inspiring testimonies of God's amazing work today. We were able to share things in our on lives that we see God working as well as areas we need help, like patience, jobs, being Godly women/wives/mommy. God wants us to feel His love. V 14 states, Because he loves me," says the LORD, "I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. 15 He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him."

To Make You Fell My Love

When the rain is blowing in your face

And the whole world is on your case

I can offer you a warm embrace

To make you feel my love

When the evening shadows in the stars of fate

And there is no one there to dry your tears

I could hold you for a million years

To make you feel my love

I know you haven't made your mind up yet

But I will never do you wrong

I've known it from the moment that we met

No doubt in my mind where you belong

I'd go hungry I'd go black and blue

I'd go cold out on the avenue

No there's nothing that i wouldn't do

To make you feel my love

The storms are raging on the rollin' sea

and on the highway of a grid

The winds of change are blowing wild and free

You ain't seen nothing like me yet

I can make you happy

Make your dreams come true

Nothing that i wouldn't do

Go to the ends of the earth for you

To make you feel my love

To make you feel my love

Goals in Life

Okay not that I have found out that R&R will not be until ummmm October I need to make some weekly, monthly and maybe just some daily goals....

I am a little teary today since finding out we won't see Josh until October but this is what life is about....change.

daily goals:
Spend time with God
Walk
Drink more water
Read
Blog

Weekly goals:
Complete my daily goals (I know lame but I need to do this!!!)
Pay bills
Grocery Shop for healthy, yummy foods
Send care package to Josh
Cut grass, weed eat, etc.
Bible Studies on Wednesday AM and Friday PM
Bake bread
Make menu for week

Monthly Goals:
Pay down debt
Lose weight/tone up!


I am sure there are more things I need to accomplish but this is a good start on top of all those things that come up on a daily basis....

Truely Blessed

As I sit here in the quiet looking through our wedding pictures I am reminded how blessed I am to have such a wonderful man in my life. It has been just 2 1/2 months since Josh left for deployment and it seems like much longer. I miss him so! I know God is taking care of him and is using this time for His glory.

This is my first deployment and I just admire all the spouses out there who do this day in and day out for years and years. We need to pray for our military families who sign up for this life to defend our freedoms because they put so much on the line not just for their country but for their families, their children, their husbands/wives, everything. Military marriages are on the battle lines each and everyday and they need our prayers to join together to keep God first in their life and in their marriages.

My heart is just aching for military wives and husbands who are living this life. I was just listening to a song by Darius Rucker "It won't be like this for long". Read the words because it applies to each of us, just about life. Appreciate each moment you are in and remember "it won't be like this for long".

He didn't have to wake up
He'd been up all night
Layin’ there in bed listenin’
To his new born baby cry
He makes a pot of coffee
He splashes water on his face
His wife gives him a kiss and says
It gonna be OK

It won’t be like this for long
One day soon we'll look back laughin’
At the week we brought her home
This phase is gonna fly by
So baby just hold on‘
Cause it won't be like this for long

Four years later ‘bout 4:30
She's crawling in their bed
And when he drops her off at preschool
She's clinging to his leg
The teacher peels her off of him
He says what can I do
She says now don't you worry
This’ll only last a week or two

It won’t be like this for long
One day soon you'll drop her off
And she won’t even know you're gone
This phase is gonna fly by
If you can just hold on
It won’t be like this for long

Some day soon she'll be a teenager
And at times he'll think she hates him
Then he'll walk her down the aisle
And he'll raise her veil
But right now she's up and cryin’
And the truth is that he don't mind
As he kisses her good night
And she says her prayers

He lays down there beside her‘
Til her eyes are finally closed
And just watchin’ her it breaks his heart
Cause he already knows

It won’t be like this for long
One day soon that little girl is gonna be
All grown up and gone
Yeah, this phase is gonna fly by
So, he's tryin’ to hold on‘

Cause it won’t be like this for long

It won’t be like this for long

Eventful

Life is always eventful with 2 year old twins...today I woke up feeling relaxed, relieved and rejuvenated...I did not get that cup of coffee in the quietness of the morning but I did get it and it was just as nice. We ran errands today as well as a bite to eat with my friend Elizabeth at Torres Mexican restaurant. We helped set up for our MOM's Club Mega sale on Saturday from 8-12. I am excited about going through old clothes but then get sad knowing that my babies are growing up right before my eyes. I cherish every moment with them and look forward to another day to make a positive impact on their little lives.

This is short and sweet tonight...tired and need some rest for tomorrows big sale.

time to detox my body, my mind, & whatever else

I am searching for a healthy way of living and I feel my life, my body, my mind needs some detoxification. Yes I know this sounds crazy coming from me. I went to the library today to learn more about cleansing the body. Wow at the info that is out there and boy the toxic world we live in. My friend Sharon is starting to rub off on me as far as living more simple and looking at the world differently.

So, tonight I will drink some cleansing tea before I go to bed and start tomorrow fresh, read my bible, have my quiet time with God, have a cup of coffee in the quietness of the morning, oh how I hope this is what tomorrow brings.....

On another note, I miss my husband so much right now and look forward to hearing his voice everyday...those simple things in life that we all seems to take for granted; like a hug...a kiss...holding hands...that sweet smile...cuddling...I LOVE YOU Josh!

" Be Still..."

God has been working on me...many times He is telling me to "be still and know that I am God." Alright already is what I am saying but He continues to say the same thing. When will I get it? Who knows but a song I know says I am a work in progress (thank God). We are not perfect but we are continually a work in progress.

The two Bible studies that I am involved with right now are really opening my eyes and bringing me so much closer to him and in this process I am learning to hear that "still small voice". I am not saying that I am in the perfect walk, the perfect Christian or the best wife, mother or friend, but what I am saying is He is helping me to break free of some past hurts, guilts, losses, etc. Now what is He calling me to do....

There is a time for everything and in His timing things will happen~ like the sale of Josh's truck (know anyone who wants a truck let me know), sale of our home, business, etc. My neighbor is leading one of my studies and is really helping me see things in a different light and maybe being called out of my comfort zone. Please pray with me to see if God is calling me to give my testimony to a group of ladies in May for a spring event. I have never given my testimony in a public manner so this would really be stepping out of my comfort zone. I have shared my story with friends and during my bible study but not in such a bold way. If God is calling me to do this pray that He gives me the words to say so that His glory will shine through every situation.

All my friends know that I believe God is in control of my life, my family, our finances, our children, our business and my business. I know that He sends the right people my way either for me to help them with their real estate needs, touch their lives in some way, or for them to teach me something but what ever the reason He knows the plans and He is in Control! Thanks Elizabeth for opening my eyes, teaching me and opening doors.

God is good!

Mighty To Save

I was checking out one of the blogs I follow and she had this song "Mighty to Save":

Everyone needs compassion

A love that's never failing

Let mercy fall on me

Everyone needs forgiveness
The kindness of a Savior

The hope of nations

(Chorus:)

Savior

He can move the mountains

My God is mighty to save

He is mighty to save

Forever

Author of Salvation

He rose & conquered the grave

Jesus conquered the grave

So take me as You find me

All my fears & failures

Fill my life again

I give my life to follow

Everything I believe in

Now I surrender (I surrender)

(Chorus:) (2x)

Savior

He can move the mountains

My God is mighty to save

He is mighty to save

Forever

Author of Salvation

He rose & conquered the grave

Jesus conquered the grave

(Bridge:) (2x)

Shine Your light &

Let the whole world see

We're singing

For the glory

Of the risen King Jesus

(Chorus)

You're the Savior

You can move the mountains

Lord You are mighty to save

You are mighty to save

Forever

Author of Salvation

You rose & conquered the grave

Yes You conquered the grave

(Bridge:)

The words of this make you think and believe that there is nothing that God can't handle. He is bigger than anything you may be going through today. he already has a plan for each one of us and since He conquered the grave, He can conquer any problem you have. Just present it to Him with prayer and thanksgiving. His will, not your will be done. I am so grateful for all the new friends that have come into my life and I know that they will teach me so much.
Photo provided by http://www.freefoto.com/

In the midst of the storm

It seems like just when you think life is going along just as planned, a bump in the road appears. But God uses these bumps in the road to bring you closer to Him. I can speak from experience that I have needed these bumps in the road to bring me out of my own little world to realize that God has such a bigger plan for me and for those lives I touch.

It like when you throw a pebble into a pond. It has to have the right angle to jump and create those ripples along the water. You can be like a pebble and just throw it so it makes one splash or get just the right angle and create the ripples so it affects the rest of the pond. Can you find peace in the midst of the ripples in the pond?

Ron Hutchcraft Ministries says, "Peace is not just the absence of a storm, but rest in the middle of the storm. Many of us could use that kind of peace right now, and it is the kind of peace that you can have right now if you're resting where you ought to be.As our headlines have become dominated with new dangers and so many hearts have been struggling with new anxieties and fears, we're ready for the incredible peace offered in Psalm 46. It is good news for troubled times and should be our word for every day! "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." The more troubled things are, the more present God makes Himself. The psalmist then says, "Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging." Everything's collapsing, even things that have always been there for us. Have no fear because "God is our refuge and strength.""

Psalm 46: 10 "Be still and know that I am God."

For all of you that are feeling like you are in the midst of the storm, there is hope and refuge in our Jesus!

PEACE

today is another one of those days....I am just tired, drained, what else...I can't even think straight these days...do you ever have days like this. I hope that I am not alone in this which I know that I am not with my other CAV girls but you just have days that you feel alone in your daily struggles. I was reading a blog that I follow and she was just rambling and I could so follow every thing she was saying....as I get on to my little girl for getting ready to write on the wall....uuuggghhhh......

CALGON TAKE ME AWAY! I just can't even put my thoughts into word right now. God is speaking to me: John 14:27 "27Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." I leave you with that thought from Jesus.

Let it go

The last week has been a hard week and God is really speaking to me about letting it go and let Him handle everything. I have been starting my day with my closest friend and it makes my day go so much smoother but here lately it has been a struggle to get through the day and complete everything that needs to be done. I am sure there are many of you who feel like this too. I have such good friends around me that have been lifting me up in prayer and I sure do feel it....thank you.

Philippians 4:4-6 keeps coming to mind as well as Jeremiah 29:11. God is so much bigger than anything in my life and I am so truly blessed to serve an AWESOME GOD. I have to confess that I have not been the most pleasant person to be around these days and if I have hurt anyone I apologize. A friend of mine gave me something today that spoke wonders to me: for every minute you are angry you lose 60 seconds of happiness. So basic yet so true. Let it go!

Being on the countdown is hard and I feel like there is so much left to do on top of the everyday affairs of being a wife, mom, REALTOR, friend, sister, daughter and I am sure other hats. My bible study, The Frazzeled Woman, is teaching me so much and I am realizing how hard we as women tend to be on ourselves. I look forward to my weekly retreat with my other frazzled ladies and my daily time with my closest friend, Jesus. Well I am feeling lighter and encouraged to end this day and begin a new one tomorrow. May you learn to let it go and let GOD.

It has been a while~

Life has been crazy around the Moudy home but it getting back to normal. We have decluttered the house and put it on the market. This house looks great and what a sense of peace a clean home brings to me.

We will spend the next two weeks spending quality time with daddy before he leaves for the year. Please pray for Sydney and Noah as they have no clue what is about to happen. Life will change for them but God will be with us each step of the way. Phillippians 4:4-6 says "rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with Thanksgiving, present your requests to God."