I was reading one of the Elevation blogs and came across this idea-
2 Samuel 22:36 says, "You give me your shield of victory; you stoop down to make me great."
One of the definitions of "stoop" is: to descend from one's level of dignity. How humbling is it to know that God Almighty, creator and ruler of EVERYTHING will descend down upon me to make me great? Wow!
Other translations use the words help, mercy, and gentleness for the word "stoop." His mercy certainly has made put me where I am and made me into the woman I am now. I am, thankfully, not finished growing and I yearn for more of Him every single day. I praise Him for His mercy and gentleness with me! There have definitely been times when I have not deserved one bit of it. Oh how sweet it is to have such a faithful and loving God who is holding my life in His hands.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Awesome New Praise Song
I went to Elevation last weekend for the Saturday night service. They are doing a series right now called Give.Me.Faith. They wrote this song and sang it at the service to go along with the series.
Here are the lyrics:
Here are the lyrics:
Verse 1:
I need you to soften my heart
To break me apart
I need you to open my eyes
To see that You’re shaping my life
Pre-Chorus:
All I am, I surrender
Chorus:
Give me faith to trust what you say
That you’re good and your love is great
I’m broken inside, I give you my life
Verse 2:
I need you to soften my heart
To break me apart
I need you pierce through the dark
And cleanse every part of me
Bridge:
I may be weak
But your Spirit’s strong in me
My flesh may fail
My God you never will
Hospital Visit
Sunday, I went with Jess to the hospital for a tour of the maternity ward. I don't know what the birthing process used to be like, but this place looked like a five star hotel! I am definitely having my children at Presbyterian. We start by walking into the lobby where we are surrounded by protruding bellies and anxious husbands. Do I feel a bit out of place? Yes.
We, as in all 16 of us, cram into an elevator. Talk about claustrophobia. We get to see the desk she will check in at, the hallway leading to the Cesarean room (which was acknowledged with a "I am NOT having that" by Jess) and the birthing "suite". Yes, it is called a suite, and rightly so. This room has wifi (so expect blog entries and Facebook updates..yay), surround sound, cd player, mp3 hookup, a flat screen TV with a DVD player, personal thermostat, and a whirlpool bathtub with jets. This baby is coming out into some high quality accommodations! Oh, and just after she arrives, her presence will be announced with the first stanza of a lullaby played throughout the hospital. Oh, I forgot to mention the light dimmer in the room as well. I think I covered it all :)
Strangely the entire time we were there, I felt as though people were looking at us like we were a couple. It didn't help that the tour guide refered to all the non-pregnant people there as "husbands or birthing support team". "Support partner" was used a few times too, making it equally awkward. Clearly people, we aren't together. For one, we would kill each other. Two, I don't that the capability to knock someone up. Sorry. We got a good laugh from it though.
After the tour we went to Target for our baby shoopping/Starbucks fix. I wound up buying a Fetal Heart Monitoring System. I bought it saying "This is mine, you have to give it back when I have kids one day" but really I just wanted to be able to use it with Jess. At the rate I am going, I won't have kids til I am 50. But that's a whole other blog entry in itself.
We got the little monitor all hooked up and we could hear little Jeanie's heart beating! I've heard it before at Jess's doctor appointments, but it was different to lay there and listen for a long period of time. Everytime she moved or kicked we could hear that too. It was amazing. As I sat there I began to think how it seemed like just yesterday this baby was the size of a piece of rice. Now she kicks and hiccups and has eyelashes and fingernails! God is so amazing. I just am in constant awe of Him and His creations.
11 weeks to go and then I will finally get to meet this little bundle of joy! Oh how I am anxiously awaiting that day! It's going to be the most emotional day of my life thus far, I am quite sure of that!
We, as in all 16 of us, cram into an elevator. Talk about claustrophobia. We get to see the desk she will check in at, the hallway leading to the Cesarean room (which was acknowledged with a "I am NOT having that" by Jess) and the birthing "suite". Yes, it is called a suite, and rightly so. This room has wifi (so expect blog entries and Facebook updates..yay), surround sound, cd player, mp3 hookup, a flat screen TV with a DVD player, personal thermostat, and a whirlpool bathtub with jets. This baby is coming out into some high quality accommodations! Oh, and just after she arrives, her presence will be announced with the first stanza of a lullaby played throughout the hospital. Oh, I forgot to mention the light dimmer in the room as well. I think I covered it all :)
Strangely the entire time we were there, I felt as though people were looking at us like we were a couple. It didn't help that the tour guide refered to all the non-pregnant people there as "husbands or birthing support team". "Support partner" was used a few times too, making it equally awkward. Clearly people, we aren't together. For one, we would kill each other. Two, I don't that the capability to knock someone up. Sorry. We got a good laugh from it though.
After the tour we went to Target for our baby shoopping/Starbucks fix. I wound up buying a Fetal Heart Monitoring System. I bought it saying "This is mine, you have to give it back when I have kids one day" but really I just wanted to be able to use it with Jess. At the rate I am going, I won't have kids til I am 50. But that's a whole other blog entry in itself.
We got the little monitor all hooked up and we could hear little Jeanie's heart beating! I've heard it before at Jess's doctor appointments, but it was different to lay there and listen for a long period of time. Everytime she moved or kicked we could hear that too. It was amazing. As I sat there I began to think how it seemed like just yesterday this baby was the size of a piece of rice. Now she kicks and hiccups and has eyelashes and fingernails! God is so amazing. I just am in constant awe of Him and His creations.
11 weeks to go and then I will finally get to meet this little bundle of joy! Oh how I am anxiously awaiting that day! It's going to be the most emotional day of my life thus far, I am quite sure of that!
Monday, August 17, 2009
Too Glad To Be Sad!
I stole this idea from Tori..who stole it from Holly. Here are 10 things I am grateful for today:
1~The fact that each passing day is one day closer to my trip to Guatemala. I bought Willy a new book bag today and it was on sale!
2~New Christian friendships. God is opening new doors, and reopening old doors to some new friends. It's awesome to see prayers being answered before my very eyes. God works in the MOST mysterious ways.
3~The ability every day to walk, talk, see, and hear. How very blessed I am.
4~God's grace. I certainly do not deserve it! I lose my temper, get anxious, and snap pretty often. I am working on it, and it's only through God's strength that it will be accomplished. But I am so thankful for His never ending patience with me.
5~ $2 Starbucks brews. There are some days (like today) that I would not get through without it.
6~My new passion for life. The Lord truly did a work on my heart while in Guatemala. I came back refreshed and renewed. I was in a rut before I left, and now I have a new direction and it's such an amazing feeling!
7~I have lost 6 pounds! Yay! Running and my new diet are paying off and it feels wonderful.
8~My goddaughter that is on her way. Man is she going to be spoiled rotten!
9~Mom's good report from the doctor. Just a few more tests in a few weeks, but things are looking up!
10~Pool/movie day tomorrow with the kids. Awesome.
1~The fact that each passing day is one day closer to my trip to Guatemala. I bought Willy a new book bag today and it was on sale!
2~New Christian friendships. God is opening new doors, and reopening old doors to some new friends. It's awesome to see prayers being answered before my very eyes. God works in the MOST mysterious ways.
3~The ability every day to walk, talk, see, and hear. How very blessed I am.
4~God's grace. I certainly do not deserve it! I lose my temper, get anxious, and snap pretty often. I am working on it, and it's only through God's strength that it will be accomplished. But I am so thankful for His never ending patience with me.
5~ $2 Starbucks brews. There are some days (like today) that I would not get through without it.
6~My new passion for life. The Lord truly did a work on my heart while in Guatemala. I came back refreshed and renewed. I was in a rut before I left, and now I have a new direction and it's such an amazing feeling!
7~I have lost 6 pounds! Yay! Running and my new diet are paying off and it feels wonderful.
8~My goddaughter that is on her way. Man is she going to be spoiled rotten!
9~Mom's good report from the doctor. Just a few more tests in a few weeks, but things are looking up!
10~Pool/movie day tomorrow with the kids. Awesome.
Monday, August 10, 2009
WAHOOOO!!!!
Last night I got the official "OK" email approving my trip to Guatemala. I have been waiting to hear back for approval before I book my flight. I was literally dancing in my room when I got the email.
Now it's time to get busy. I have got a lot of money to raise! Unlike last time though, I have quite some time to get it all together. I hope these next few months fly by, because I am already shaking with excitement if I think about it for longer than 2 minutes. I found myself wanting to go to Target and the Dollar Store today to start stocking up on toys and gifts for my babies there. (Don't worry, I told myself that there will be plenty of opportunities in the next 4 months....no need to start quite yet).
I am praising God for opening this door, yet again, and will begin praying for the support to be provided. I know when it's God's will, He will provide. If you have any good ideas for fund raising or are interested in supporting me, please let me know. I will be forever thankful! This is truly my passion for life and I could not be any more excited than I am now! I will keep you updated over the next few months leading up to the trip!
Now it's time to get busy. I have got a lot of money to raise! Unlike last time though, I have quite some time to get it all together. I hope these next few months fly by, because I am already shaking with excitement if I think about it for longer than 2 minutes. I found myself wanting to go to Target and the Dollar Store today to start stocking up on toys and gifts for my babies there. (Don't worry, I told myself that there will be plenty of opportunities in the next 4 months....no need to start quite yet).
I am praising God for opening this door, yet again, and will begin praying for the support to be provided. I know when it's God's will, He will provide. If you have any good ideas for fund raising or are interested in supporting me, please let me know. I will be forever thankful! This is truly my passion for life and I could not be any more excited than I am now! I will keep you updated over the next few months leading up to the trip!
Trying to beat the heat!!
1. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? Nope....mom decided on Megan at the last minute. My middle name, Fairchild, is after my grandma.
2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED? Sunday when the youth led church. I am so proud of them and their desire to live a life pleasing to the Lord at such a young age!
3. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Most days.
4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Um....Honey Turkey. Hate ham, bologna, roast beef, etc.
5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS? Yes, 3 that I watch every day. And then I get to go home to peace and quiet!!
6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON, WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Sure
7. DO YOU USE SARCASM? Not at all ;)
8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Nope.
9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? Um....I would get up there and get all strapped in. Would I jump? Not so sure.
10. NAKED? You don't want to see that!
11. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Not a cereal person at all but Fruit Loops and Reese Cups cereals are good.
12. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? Nope...too lazy for that!
13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? Pralines and cream
14. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE? Smile and hands.
15. RED OR PINK? PINK!
16. WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? I tend to be pretty paranoid about if people like me or not. I wish I could be one of those people that just doesn't care but I do!
17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? Shelley. Thank goodness I will be seeing her again.
18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO COMPLETE THIS LIST? Sure.
19. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? Black workout capris, no shoes
21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? Silence...it's so nice.
22. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Well of course a shade of pink. Or maybe Sunshine Yellow.
23. FAVORITE SMELLS? Right before it rains, cookies baking, roses (even though I don't like the flower).
24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? Sherri
25. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? Stole it from Tori and she's pretty cool :)
26. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH? FOOTBALLLLLLLLLLLL
27. HAIR COLOR? @ the moment it is light brown. Been thinking about a switch though. I've had this color for about 2 months now...I'm getting restless.
28. EYE COLOR? Blue/Green
29. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? Nope
30. FAVORITE FOOD? Mex
31. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? Happy ending annoy me. Ask me again when I have a bf though.
32. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? The Proposal. Hilarious.
33. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Blue.
34. SUMMER OR WINTER? Summer except these last few weeks have been miserable!
35. HUGS OR KISSES? Depends who it's from...
37. MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Don't care.
38. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Don't care.
39. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW? Currently reading Lady in Waiting, Mommywood, and What Happens When Women Say Yes To God.
40. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? Don't have one.
41. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON TV LAST NIGHT? Army Wives
42. FAVORITE SOUND(S)? Waves. Rain. (weird Tori!) S's voice.
43. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? UGHHHH I do NOT like the Beatles.
44. WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME? Guatemala.
45. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT? I don't think so...
46 WHERE WERE U BORN? VA
47. WHOSE ANSWERS ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO GETTING BACK? Everyone!
48. HOW DID YOU MEET YOUR SPOUSE/SIGNIFICANT OTHER? HA! Still working on that one...
49. WHAT DO YOU DRIVE? Mazda 6
50. WHAT IS YOUR PSYCHIC TALENT? Psychic talent? What's that?
2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED? Sunday when the youth led church. I am so proud of them and their desire to live a life pleasing to the Lord at such a young age!
3. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Most days.
4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Um....Honey Turkey. Hate ham, bologna, roast beef, etc.
5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS? Yes, 3 that I watch every day. And then I get to go home to peace and quiet!!
6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON, WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Sure
7. DO YOU USE SARCASM? Not at all ;)
8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Nope.
9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? Um....I would get up there and get all strapped in. Would I jump? Not so sure.
10. NAKED? You don't want to see that!
11. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Not a cereal person at all but Fruit Loops and Reese Cups cereals are good.
12. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? Nope...too lazy for that!
13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? Pralines and cream
14. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE? Smile and hands.
15. RED OR PINK? PINK!
16. WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? I tend to be pretty paranoid about if people like me or not. I wish I could be one of those people that just doesn't care but I do!
17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? Shelley. Thank goodness I will be seeing her again.
18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO COMPLETE THIS LIST? Sure.
19. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? Black workout capris, no shoes
21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? Silence...it's so nice.
22. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Well of course a shade of pink. Or maybe Sunshine Yellow.
23. FAVORITE SMELLS? Right before it rains, cookies baking, roses (even though I don't like the flower).
24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? Sherri
25. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? Stole it from Tori and she's pretty cool :)
26. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH? FOOTBALLLLLLLLLLLL
27. HAIR COLOR? @ the moment it is light brown. Been thinking about a switch though. I've had this color for about 2 months now...I'm getting restless.
28. EYE COLOR? Blue/Green
29. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? Nope
30. FAVORITE FOOD? Mex
31. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? Happy ending annoy me. Ask me again when I have a bf though.
32. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? The Proposal. Hilarious.
33. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Blue.
34. SUMMER OR WINTER? Summer except these last few weeks have been miserable!
35. HUGS OR KISSES? Depends who it's from...
37. MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Don't care.
38. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Don't care.
39. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW? Currently reading Lady in Waiting, Mommywood, and What Happens When Women Say Yes To God.
40. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? Don't have one.
41. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON TV LAST NIGHT? Army Wives
42. FAVORITE SOUND(S)? Waves. Rain. (weird Tori!) S's voice.
43. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? UGHHHH I do NOT like the Beatles.
44. WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME? Guatemala.
45. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT? I don't think so...
46 WHERE WERE U BORN? VA
47. WHOSE ANSWERS ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO GETTING BACK? Everyone!
48. HOW DID YOU MEET YOUR SPOUSE/SIGNIFICANT OTHER? HA! Still working on that one...
49. WHAT DO YOU DRIVE? Mazda 6
50. WHAT IS YOUR PSYCHIC TALENT? Psychic talent? What's that?
Friday, August 7, 2009
NeedToBreathe
Have you heard of them? This is my new favorite band. I heard them on the christian radio station and they are awesome! I am going to see them in concert next Friday...YAY!!! I am taking some of the girls from my Bible study to a baseball game and the band is playing after.
I have been pretty down lately about friendships. I have felt very strongly lately that I need to walk away from a few friendships that are not helping me grow in my Christian walk. This of course is very difficult because it has left me with very few friends. I have been very lonely lately and desperately wanting some friendships. It seems as though a lot of people are getting engaged, married, or are in serious relationships. That leaves little time to make new friends and work on friendships. I have been praying for God to send me some girlfriends. I have 2 very good friends from college but they live in other states. And I feel like the one good friend that does live here sees a little too much of me!
I've had a hard time with girlfriends in the past. In middle and high school I had a few friends that I really trusted that turned on me. I was burnt by a few "good friends." In college, my best friend, my "soul mate" best friend, passed away. You know, that one girlfriend that you are closer to than anyone else? The one you could trust with your deepest secret and know she not only won't tell anyone but wouldn't even think of judging you either? That was her. Not a day went by in 3 years that we didn't talk. After she passed I began to think that I couldn't have a close friend because they either would stab me in the back or I would lose them. That was totally the Devil giving me those thoughts and I was buying into it.
Sunday I was telling all of this to a lady at home fellowship. She told me, "Maybe God is going to send you a new friend who isn't necessarily your age. Maybe older, maybe younger. We always think friends are going to be someone just like us but that isn't always the case."
The same night I was having this same conversation with another woman in the group. She told me, "God is going to send you a friend." Since that day I have been told this again. When the Lord says something 3 times, He means it! I will continue to pray for strong, consistent, female friendships in my life. This really is my hearts desire.
*Disclaimer* This is not to say that the few female friends I have are not anything short of amazing. I love you 3, KK, JJ, and SW, to death. Even though the miles separate us, I could not ask for better friends.
I have been pretty down lately about friendships. I have felt very strongly lately that I need to walk away from a few friendships that are not helping me grow in my Christian walk. This of course is very difficult because it has left me with very few friends. I have been very lonely lately and desperately wanting some friendships. It seems as though a lot of people are getting engaged, married, or are in serious relationships. That leaves little time to make new friends and work on friendships. I have been praying for God to send me some girlfriends. I have 2 very good friends from college but they live in other states. And I feel like the one good friend that does live here sees a little too much of me!
I've had a hard time with girlfriends in the past. In middle and high school I had a few friends that I really trusted that turned on me. I was burnt by a few "good friends." In college, my best friend, my "soul mate" best friend, passed away. You know, that one girlfriend that you are closer to than anyone else? The one you could trust with your deepest secret and know she not only won't tell anyone but wouldn't even think of judging you either? That was her. Not a day went by in 3 years that we didn't talk. After she passed I began to think that I couldn't have a close friend because they either would stab me in the back or I would lose them. That was totally the Devil giving me those thoughts and I was buying into it.
Sunday I was telling all of this to a lady at home fellowship. She told me, "Maybe God is going to send you a new friend who isn't necessarily your age. Maybe older, maybe younger. We always think friends are going to be someone just like us but that isn't always the case."
The same night I was having this same conversation with another woman in the group. She told me, "God is going to send you a friend." Since that day I have been told this again. When the Lord says something 3 times, He means it! I will continue to pray for strong, consistent, female friendships in my life. This really is my hearts desire.
*Disclaimer* This is not to say that the few female friends I have are not anything short of amazing. I love you 3, KK, JJ, and SW, to death. Even though the miles separate us, I could not ask for better friends.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Get to know me
So today I thought I would do a little questionnaire. Maybe you will learn a new thing or two about me!
1. What time did you get up this morning?
8:30-and had to leave for work at 8:45!
2. How do you like your steak?
Medium rare
3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema?
The Ugly Truth
4. What is your favorite TV show?
Grey's Anatomy and most of the reality shows on Bravo
5. If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?
Guatemala
6. What did you have for breakfast?
A protein shake with strawberries
7. What is your favorite cuisine?
Mexican
8. What foods do you dislike?
black olives
9. Favorite Place to Eat?
On the Border, Cantina 1511
10. Favorite dressing?
Honey mustard
11.What kind of vehicle do you drive?
Mazda 6
12. What are your favorite clothes?
Sundress and flip-flops
13. Where would you visit if you had the chance?
Greece
14. Cup 1/2 empty or 1/2 full?
1/2 full
15. Where would you want to retire?
somewhere with a beach
16. Favorite time of day?
dusk
17. Where were you born?
Newport News, VA
18. What is your favorite sport to watch?
College football
19. Who do you think will not tag you back?
???? don't care
20. Person you expect to tag you back first?
???? don't care
21. Who are you most curious about their responses to this?
I'd love to see what everyone has to say
22. Bird watcher?
Not really...more of a people watcher
23. Are you a morning person or a night person?
If I am in the habit of getting up early, I like it. But for the most part, I am a night owl.
24. Do you have any pets?
3 dogs-Doodle, Freddie, Cleo, and a cat-Sassy
25. Any new and exciting news you'd like to share?
Um....God is good!!
26. What did you want to be when you were little?
Teacher
27. What is your best childhood memory?
Family vacations or playing with Brandon all the time who is still my friend :)
28. Are you a cat or dog person?
Dog
29. Are you married?
Nope...still praying about that one
30. Always wear your seat belt?
Yes. That's one of the dumbest things you can get a ticket for. It's so easy to follow that rule!
31. Been in a car accident?
Well if rolling into the back of someone counts as an accident, yes.
32. Any pet peeves?
Kids who ask "Why?" after being told "No" or kids that argue with adults. Whiny kids. Spoiled kids. Parents who let their kids get away with all of the above.
33. Favorite Pizza Toppings?
Pineapple
34. Favorite Flower?
Daisy
35. Favorite ice cream?
Pralines
36. Favorite fast food restaurant?
Bojangles
37. How many times did you fail your driver's test?
None
38. From whom did you get your last email?
Bailey
39. Which store would you choose to max out your credit card?
J. Crew or Banana Republic
40. Do anything spontaneous lately?
Ran through a sprinkler
41. Like your job?
It's pretty great on the days when the kids get enough sleep
42. Broccoli?
Anyway you fix it
43. What was your favorite vacation?
This summer's trip to Sanibel Island was pretty great
44. Last person you went out to dinner with?
Mom and I went out to dinner last night.
45. What are you listening to right now?
Nothing
46. What is your favorite color?
Pink
47. How many tattoos do you have?
None-I would rather get engraved jewelry instead
48. Coffee Drinker?
Everyday
1. What time did you get up this morning?
8:30-and had to leave for work at 8:45!
2. How do you like your steak?
Medium rare
3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema?
The Ugly Truth
4. What is your favorite TV show?
Grey's Anatomy and most of the reality shows on Bravo
5. If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?
Guatemala
6. What did you have for breakfast?
A protein shake with strawberries
7. What is your favorite cuisine?
Mexican
8. What foods do you dislike?
black olives
9. Favorite Place to Eat?
On the Border, Cantina 1511
10. Favorite dressing?
Honey mustard
11.What kind of vehicle do you drive?
Mazda 6
12. What are your favorite clothes?
Sundress and flip-flops
13. Where would you visit if you had the chance?
Greece
14. Cup 1/2 empty or 1/2 full?
1/2 full
15. Where would you want to retire?
somewhere with a beach
16. Favorite time of day?
dusk
17. Where were you born?
Newport News, VA
18. What is your favorite sport to watch?
College football
19. Who do you think will not tag you back?
???? don't care
20. Person you expect to tag you back first?
???? don't care
21. Who are you most curious about their responses to this?
I'd love to see what everyone has to say
22. Bird watcher?
Not really...more of a people watcher
23. Are you a morning person or a night person?
If I am in the habit of getting up early, I like it. But for the most part, I am a night owl.
24. Do you have any pets?
3 dogs-Doodle, Freddie, Cleo, and a cat-Sassy
25. Any new and exciting news you'd like to share?
Um....God is good!!
26. What did you want to be when you were little?
Teacher
27. What is your best childhood memory?
Family vacations or playing with Brandon all the time who is still my friend :)
28. Are you a cat or dog person?
Dog
29. Are you married?
Nope...still praying about that one
30. Always wear your seat belt?
Yes. That's one of the dumbest things you can get a ticket for. It's so easy to follow that rule!
31. Been in a car accident?
Well if rolling into the back of someone counts as an accident, yes.
32. Any pet peeves?
Kids who ask "Why?" after being told "No" or kids that argue with adults. Whiny kids. Spoiled kids. Parents who let their kids get away with all of the above.
33. Favorite Pizza Toppings?
Pineapple
34. Favorite Flower?
Daisy
35. Favorite ice cream?
Pralines
36. Favorite fast food restaurant?
Bojangles
37. How many times did you fail your driver's test?
None
38. From whom did you get your last email?
Bailey
39. Which store would you choose to max out your credit card?
J. Crew or Banana Republic
40. Do anything spontaneous lately?
Ran through a sprinkler
41. Like your job?
It's pretty great on the days when the kids get enough sleep
42. Broccoli?
Anyway you fix it
43. What was your favorite vacation?
This summer's trip to Sanibel Island was pretty great
44. Last person you went out to dinner with?
Mom and I went out to dinner last night.
45. What are you listening to right now?
Nothing
46. What is your favorite color?
Pink
47. How many tattoos do you have?
None-I would rather get engraved jewelry instead
48. Coffee Drinker?
Everyday
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Mile 2
Mike Clark, the founder of Casa Aleluya, has a blog. He writes some of the most encouraging and profound things I have read. He is truly filled with God's wisdom. He recently wrote about "Going the extra mile". PLEASE go read this...I think all Christians need this reminder to blow people away with God's love :)
Mile # 2!
Mile # 2!
Being Thoughtful
Today started off as any other. Making breakfast for the kids I nanny, getting teeth brushed, outfits laid out, finding shoes and out the door by 9:30 is quite the task. Maybe it's because I am not their mom? Anyways, we headed downtown to the hospital to meet Jess for her 7 month ultrasound. I was SO proud of the girls for waiting so patiently in the waiting room. I was going to let them come back to see the ultrasound but unfortunately the doctor decided to wait a few more weeks. Please pray for little baby Jeanie. At the last ultrasound, some cysts were visible on her spine. Jess was assured today that this is not the result of a genetic disorder which is an answered prayer. Hopefully the next pictures will show that they are totally gone. I will keep you updated.
The best part of the visit? I got to feel Jeanie kick! Finally! She has been acting a little stubborn with me lately. Every time Jess feels her kick and quickly puts my hand on her belly to feel it, Jeanie stops moving. I'm so glad she decided to cooperate with Tutu today. (My soon to be name! Aunt Meg just wasn't fun).
After the appointment we went to lunch and got ice cream. I got in a little trouble with my boss for spoiling the girls the way I do. I can't help it....they are so precious! We then went to ImaginOn. If you have kids and have not been here yet, you need to go! It's so much fun! And provides hours of entertainment.
The DJ on 91.9 was talking on the radio today about her upcoming trip to Africa. She was saying how she could not fit all her things in her bag that she wanted to take and could only check one bag. I called the station to share with her that on international flights you may check as many bags as you would like. We got to talking and I shared with her about my trip to Guatemala and how I feel called now to be a full time missionary. Later tonight Jill and Cindy called saying they heard me on the radio! How fun! I didn't get to hear it but I was pretty excited about it!
God laid it on my heart several times today that when He puts an encouraging thought or idea into my mind, I need to act on it. There are many times that an encouraging word will come to my mind, but the thought of approaching a stranger to share that thought is scary! That is walking in faith though, isn't it? As a society, we are not as thoughtful as we should be. When a person acts thoughtfully, it catches people off guard. That's when our Christian light will shine through. When you are prompted to say or do something encouraging.... do it. You are being used!
If you see a need, meet it.
If you think an encouraging word, say it.
If you think a kind thought, put it into action.
The best part of the visit? I got to feel Jeanie kick! Finally! She has been acting a little stubborn with me lately. Every time Jess feels her kick and quickly puts my hand on her belly to feel it, Jeanie stops moving. I'm so glad she decided to cooperate with Tutu today. (My soon to be name! Aunt Meg just wasn't fun).
After the appointment we went to lunch and got ice cream. I got in a little trouble with my boss for spoiling the girls the way I do. I can't help it....they are so precious! We then went to ImaginOn. If you have kids and have not been here yet, you need to go! It's so much fun! And provides hours of entertainment.
The DJ on 91.9 was talking on the radio today about her upcoming trip to Africa. She was saying how she could not fit all her things in her bag that she wanted to take and could only check one bag. I called the station to share with her that on international flights you may check as many bags as you would like. We got to talking and I shared with her about my trip to Guatemala and how I feel called now to be a full time missionary. Later tonight Jill and Cindy called saying they heard me on the radio! How fun! I didn't get to hear it but I was pretty excited about it!
God laid it on my heart several times today that when He puts an encouraging thought or idea into my mind, I need to act on it. There are many times that an encouraging word will come to my mind, but the thought of approaching a stranger to share that thought is scary! That is walking in faith though, isn't it? As a society, we are not as thoughtful as we should be. When a person acts thoughtfully, it catches people off guard. That's when our Christian light will shine through. When you are prompted to say or do something encouraging.... do it. You are being used!
If you see a need, meet it.
If you think an encouraging word, say it.
If you think a kind thought, put it into action.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Trust
Ok. I just got done checking out the blogs of all the women in my Home Fellowship group. I am embarrassed now! Theirs have pictures, pretty backgrounds, and are really done up nicely. I'm sorry to disappoint with mine. I have no idea how to make it look cool like theirs! I am not tech-savvy at all. I am lucky to turn on the TV and get the digital cable to work.
As I was reading their blogs, God spoke to me. Let me back up by saying that last week I was reading Papi's blog. Papi is the man who started Casa Aleluya. He is an incredible man full of God's wisdom and spirit. I admire him so much. One of his entries was telling the story of a two year old boy who is in need of a kidney transplant. His mom left him at the hospital because she did not want him. The hospital asked Papi to come get the boy and care for him until he is old enough for a transplant. He will be on dialysis a few times a week. Papi would like someone to come and care for this boy full time. Maybe this is the door opening for me. I have been praying since I read that blog. Sunday at home group I shared the story with a friend. With chills on her arms she told me I had to email Papi about my desires to live in Guatemala as one of his workers. So tonight, with knots in my stomach and a nauseous feeling quickly taking over, I sent the email. Oh how scary it can sometimes be to walk in faith!
I spent the next 20 minutes worrying and crying. (If you don't know me, I am a crier. If I am happy, I cry. Sad, I cry. Mad, I cry. Moved by the Spirit, I cry. If you cry, I cry. And so it goes...) I came across one of those awesome blogs I was telling you about around this time or worrying and crying. She quoted from a book called CrazyLove. If you have not read this book, go right now and get it. It's amazing.
This is stolen from her post:
Worry implies that we don't quite trust that God is big enough, powerful enough, or loving enough to take care of what's happening in our lives.
Doesn't God speak to us in the most unexpected ways sometimes? Yes, sending that email tonight was big. It was a leap of faith. It was what God told me to do. Who am I to worry? I am committing to let go and know that I am in the best hands anyone could ask to be in.
What is making you happy?
Everyone has that one small thing that makes them happy. That one little thing can bring sunlight to any cloudy day. What is making you happy today? Here are some of the small things in life that make me happy...
~Mango Sorbet. I don't like eating real mangos (or it is mangoes?) that much but YUM, the sorbet is amazing. And it's fat free.
~Seeing a rainbow.
~Spotting a small flower growing somewhere it shouldn't be. I know when I see that, God is giving me that flower and THAT makes me feel special.
~Thunderstorms with extra thunder.
~Runner's high. This one doesn't happen much because I have been lazy this summer. Once it cools off I will be back on it. Promise.
~Kisses on the forehead.
~Butterflies in my stomach before talking or seeing that special someone.
~Thinking about my new goddaughter.
~Asking God to let me know He is near and then hearing my favorite praise song on the radio.
~The smell of something burning outside.
~When the kids I nanny say one of the following: "You are so cool!", "You are so nice!" or "I love you".
~Knowing every day that passes is one day closer to being back in Guatemala.
What little things make your day?
A Radical Experience
My quiet times for the past few weeks have been from a book titled, When Women Say Yes To God. It is teaching me to abandon myself, my desires, and to live a life pleasing to God. When we commit to follow Him, who knows what we can do! God has bigger plans for us than we could ever imagine and we are to be open to being used, in any way necessary, on this great adventure of life. Yes, it's scary to live a life completely trusting in someone you can't even see. But when you do, it is so rewarding.
A just returned from a missions trip to Guatemala 2 weeks ago. Talk about a life changing experience. My heart now has a place in it that I never even knew I had. I have such a deep love and passion for some children now that I didn't expect to return with. It was heartbreaking to leave them. I literally cried the entire way home. I wanted to stay in Guatemala so desperately. Those children were more of a blessing to me than I could ever be to them. They taught me some of the most important life lessons that I could have ever learned. I prayed before I left that God would teach me through the trip to love in a way I never knew how to before. He certainly answers prayers! I am still enamored by the way my outlook on life drastically changed over a week.
I know this is long but pleaseeee hear me out. I think it's an awesome testimony of God's faithfulness!
I felt the calling into missions when I was 20, but I ignored it because I was too busy living my own life. Besides, I always thought "I have never been on a missions trip, so how could I be called into that?" I actually had planned to go to Africa this summer. There was a trip w/Steele Creek but it fell through and I signed up for Guatemala. I was excited, but a little disheartened that Africa didn't work out. When I got there, I was completely overwhelmed. There stood over 500 children wanting and needing love and attention. I had to pray at that moment that God take over and show Himself through me, and help me to abandon my flesh to love these kids the way He knew they needed to be loved.
On Thursday we went to Antigua, the capital of Guatemala. After shopping all day we went to this really nice restaurant with a roof top view. I went up there with one of my team members and was looking at the mountains, the city and the volcanoes that surrounded us. I felt the overwhelming presence of God and His voice speaking to me. I began to get tears in my eyes because I knew once again, He was calling me. My team member looks at me and says. "Maybe you belong here in Guatemala. I have never seen kids interact with someone the way they do w/you" (and he is a teacher!) We went back to our table and the people at the table next to us were full time missionaries. I didn't speak to them, just listened as everyone else did, because I was still trying to swallow back my tears. The lady says "When God calls you, you must go". I went back that night to my dorm praying that God would help me be able to decipher the different between my own will and His own. If it was up to me, I would leave tomorrow to live there!
The next day I was doing my quiet time as I waited on the boys to get out of school. My quiet time was about how to know if what you hear is God's voice. Wow. I read about half of the devotion and then the boys began to get out of school and wanted to play. I closed the book. The next day when we left and got on the plane I decided to finish that devotion. I opened my book, flipping through it to find where I had left off. The VERY FIRST sentence I read was, "God is very clear in Scripture that as Christians we are to take care of widows and orphans." I was already crying bc I didn't want to leave, but this sent me over the edge. I was weeping. I know everyone on the plane thought I was a nut case.
I know I have only been home a few weeks, and many people come home from a mission trip on a "high" but I feel in my heart that I am to move to Guatemala. I am going to continue to pray for the Lord's will to become apparent to me. I am planning another trip for Dec-Jan, this time for 2 weeks. After that they like you to come for a few months to decide if this is truly what you want to do before you commit for 3-5 years. I am switching from Nursing to Education next semester. I hope to become trained to teach ESL classes. Please pray for me as the next few months go by, that I will follow the path that the Lord wants for me! I have been living for myself for so long that I am afraid I am not going to be able to know the difference.
I'm back...and better....
I decided to delete everything I had on here and start all over. My first attempt at blogging turned out to be pretty pathetic! So here we go again.
I need to start off by saying, WOW, what a whirlwind the last year has been. This time last year I was engaged, planning a wedding, looking for town homes in Wilmington, NC, and in a constant state of unrest with my family. And barely entering the doors of any church except the occasional Catholic service. (If you are Catholic, please do not take offense to this. I was raised Southern Baptist so from the moment I step foot in a mass until the time I leave, I am completely confused as to what is going on. And I was attending with someone who, let's just say, was not a regular himself and was not able to shed much light on my countless questions.)
I was making so many mistakes and was too blinded by my own pride to see any of it. I had NO business being engaged. My life was not at a stable point, nor was his, like it should be when preparing for a lifetime together. I did NOT want to move away from Charlotte, yet I was looking for homes in a city 3 hours away. All to please someone else. My happiness was at the bottom of the totem poll. I believe this is where the fighting with my parents came from. Not only was I rebelling, but they were trying to show me the same things that I myself already knew. But remember, my pride was standing in the way? Isn't that a situation we all find ourselves in at some point? We know we are wrong, but admitting our fault is just too painful so we risk completely bombing instead. Needless to say, I bombed.
So here I am, a year later, single, living at home, (in Charlotte I might add) and the happiest I have been in my life. I have a few close friends, most who live in other cities, a fun job, and an amazing group of Godly women that I know I can count on. I am living in God's will, studying His word daily, thanking Him for this life and the opportunities that I have. I am planning to apply to the Master's program for Education at UNCC and hopefully will begin in the Spring of 2010. I finally have found something that I am passionate about and am taking steps to have a lifelong job doing it. I am so thankful for God's grace on me, His patience until I decided to live for Him wholeheartedly and His mercy for forgiving my selfish past. I am so thankful we have such a forgiving and merciful God!
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