My point of frustration

I've decided that we need to hit the lottery. I'm at that point right now where I don't want to clean, cook, finish packing or do anything constructive. I know we should be eating way better than we are right now, but I just don't have the energy to cook meals. Solution: kick myself in the pants or win the lottery. I could hire a personal chef, maid, personal trainer.....you get the picture. Well, considering that one has to play the lottery to win it, that won't happen any time soon...so, off I go for some pants kicking...LOL!

This is how I feel right now...

Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God. John 1:12-13

Don't expect it, earn it.

*WARNING* This is me blowing off some steam...take it with a grain of salt.


One thing wrong with some of my generation and most of the next is they think they deserve respect. Well, the way I was taught, that is something that is earned. Back when my parents were young, they didn't get things handed to them, they had to earn them. (I was taught the same thing) That goes for material possessions and respect. Respect was something that you had to give in order to receive it...period. I recently had an encounter with someone who I once respected, at least a little. Needless to say, that respect is now gone due to the behavior exhibited. It's crazy to me how people think everyone should respect them because of their age, experience or even a title...sorry, doesn't work that way, at least not for me anyway. I guess the only thing that I can do here is to try to teach my children and others from their generation why respect is something only reciprocated when it is first given.

You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:14,16

Overwhelmed...in a GOoD and bad way

The last few days have been, well, interesting. Between swim parties that got rained out, so much rain I thought we'd float away, night meetings at church, a surprise phone call from my Daddy, I'd say we haven't lacked for things to do...just time to blog about them. It's getting to be just about time to disassemble furniture and begin coming up with a battle plan for packing the truck. Ah, the truck...I reserved that today. Just made the reality of the move that much more real. You know, talking about the move doesn't make it real in my mind. Just something that is theoretically going to happen in the future. Reserving the truck...now that made it really seem real. It will be even more real when we pick up the truck...


As much as I'm not looking forward to leaving, God has really stirred my spirit the last few days. He has renewed in me my calling for the youth. I know this may sound crazy, but I'd rather spend time with a bunch of teenagers than with a bunch of adults. Even those teenagers that try your patience. I just love them. God has given me such a passion for them...all of them. He has given me promises about the harvest I will help to reap for His Kingdom. Last night He just overwhelmed me with the vision He has for me. I also got a little more confirmation about our next church home. I really am getting excited to once again to be used by God to speak to the next generation.


I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Phil 3:14

Growing up too fast

Ugh...now that that is off my chest...why do kids want to grow up so fast? I remember wanting so badly to be an adult, but now, I just wish I could be a kid again. The freedom of adulthood looks so nice...but, as a kid, what you don't see, is the responsibility and lack of time to do fun stuff that comes right along with it. Something I don't remember, however, is my generation being so 'sexualized' at such a young age. I don't remember my mom having to talk to me at age 10 about dressing modestly. Or talking to me about what to say to a boy when he says he wants to be my boyfriend...or kiss me. These are things that I, mother of a 10 year old, am dealing with right now...like today. As in, I just had a conversation with my Big Girl about what to say to a boy who is asking her if she is ever going to kiss him. I had to tell her that she needs a plan. She needs to know what she's going to say in these kind of situations and she needs to let me know what and when she's going to say. Did I mention she's 10!?!?! I don't think I signed up for this part of parenthood....LOL! I guess this is when I rely VERY heavily on Jesus...


Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Heb 11:1

Packing, packing, packing....

Well, we've kinda been on a packing frenzy all day today. We've packed just about everything we can absolutely live without....that's the good news and the bad news. :( My house looks so weird. Oh and every time I pass by something, I think can I live without this? Can I find a box to put it in? I had to make another run for boxes today because we ran out. Our front room is full of boxes. It's a little sad to think that almost all of the stuff in our house can fit into boxes that barely fill 200 sq. ft...not kidding.

This is pretty much our whole house.

She's not sure what to think...

Good will come to him who is generous and lends freely, who conducts his affairs with justice. Ps 112:5

Time with my Angel

My Big Girl is spending the night with a friend tonight. That always makes for some super fun with my Angel. It's not that often that I can spend time with either of them individually, so I take full advantage of it when it happens! Well, Angel being the girlie girl she is, loves to get her nails done, her toes done, dress in pretty clothes and of course get her picture taken! So tonight, we did her nails (hands and toes), put some make-up on and had a mini photo session. She's just so stinkin' beautiful...of course I'm just a little biased. Well, here are the result of some of my favorites. Most are unretouched...she's such a good subject!

She's so precious

This is the only one I edited...love it!!

It's hard to believe she's not a baby anymore, but this picture proves it!

I think this one is my favorite!

Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these. Matthew 19:14

Mountain Moving

You know, there's a saying that goes kinda like this...prayer can move mountains. You know, I think I read something about that concept in a book somewhere... :) Anyway, I have had a rough few days...worst days I've had in a while. That's not to say that my life is perfect...far from it actually...just that I try to find the good in all situations. Well, the enemy has been working overtime in the lives of me and my loved ones. My hubby is feeling attacked at work (his tender area) and I am being attacked in my relationships with people I love (my tender spot). I know the enemy would love nothing more than to drive a wedge between me and the people I love to make us all ineffective for the Kingdom. Here's the only flaw in that little plan....I am a daughter of the risen KING!! I have the mind of Christ! I am righteous in Christ! No weapon formed against me shall prosper. While sometimes it is much easier to listen to his lies, I know that the only power he has, I give him. Well, I'm taking it all back!


Nothing, and I mean nothing, can change your atmosphere and your attitude like prayer. When you are in a difficult situation or you are feeling attacked, pray. Pray that the Lord's will be done in your life and in the lives of those affected by the situation. Maybe, just maybe, God is trying to teach you a new discipline...or bring you back to an old one that needs refining...


Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me. Revelation 3:20

Thankful for hard times?

You know, it's a common misconception among new believers that once you 'get saved' life is just hunky dory. Well, I'm living proof that's as far from the truth as you can get. I mean, I got saved in March 2004, and I had an affair in December 2007. But I was 'saved'...how did that happen? Well, I began to listen to the voice of the enemy, not my Lord. This might sound really crazy to some of you, but I am grateful for that time in my life. Not because I enjoyed breaking my husband's heart and nearly ripping my family apart, but because I became stronger in my Faith for it. Through all of that, I learned how to hear the Voice of the Lord and how to silence the voice of the evil one.


Let me tell you, that experience and growth has come in handy the last few days. I've had a rough time and I know that without the Lord allowing me to go through past struggles, I would not have the tools and the strength to get through my struggles today. Sometimes it's not so easy to silence the voice of the enemy, but I am holding on to the victory I have in Christ. Thank you Jesus!


I have chosen the way of truth; I have set my heart on your laws. Ps 119:30

A little bit of this and a little bit of that

I have sat in front of this computer 3 times since my last post trying to write something....anything. And I've got nothing. Not that there isn't anything going on...quite the opposite actually. There are so many things going on right now I can't decide which one I should write about. Hmmm, let's see...


1. My friends are amazing...no really they are. I love having a great group of girlfriends who get me. (and still love me) I mean everyone has their quirks. Take me for example. According to my great friends, I say all those things that everyone is thinking. You know, I'm pretty sure I'm totally ok with that. I just think that it's great that all of us can look past our flaws, quirks and "just me's" and still get along like sisters. I know God has put all these women in my life for a purpose. And I love you all!!


2. My Big Girl isn't such a little girl any more. I know I call her my big girl, but she's still young...just my oldest. Well, there was a moment, a few weeks ago, where I looked at my Big Girl and realized that she doesn't look like a kid any more. Every day, she's looking more and more like a teenager. She passed a milestone recently that I had hoped was not coming for at least another year. :( But I must say that I'm looking forward to teenage-dom. I know that sounds totally crazy, but hear me out. She and I don't connect as easily as I do with my Angel. I think it will be very helpful to our relationship to be able to go out and do 'girl' stuff together...just the two of us. So, I can look past all of the hormones, attitudes and other teenager-ness that comes with the territory just to be closer to my not-so-little girl.


3. The packing is coming along pretty well. Still haven't gotten back into that kitchen...ugh! It's difficult to pack and live in a house...but we will weather this storm too!


I know there's more, but it's not really blog worthy. So for all of you (all 8 of you) that's the update on my crazier than usual life. Many blessing and lots of love to you all!!


I will praise you with an upright heart as I learn your righteous laws. Ps 119:7

A much deserved break...

I busted my tail today getting the kitchen sorted and mostly packed and even cleaned a little. You know, you never realize how dirty things get until you move. Take for example the top of the refrigerator. Now I'm sure there are some people out there who clean it like once a month or whatever, but I am not one of them. So, living in this house for almost 3 years, you can imagine how disgusting the top was. EW! Scrubbed the top and the inside. I packed several boxes of dishes. Then I got a call for one of the pieces of furniture I have posted. So I had to stop the work in the kitchen in order to go clean the armoire in the bedroom. Lemme tell ya, that was DIRTY! Electronics make so much dust! (It doesn't help that I have so many other things that I spend my 'dusting' time on...LOL!) Well, armoire cleaned and sold, kitchen half packed...I headed to the grocery store to get some things we had to have today. Did that and stopped at Sonic for dinner. The rest of my evening will consist of sitting right here in this recliner doing one of three things (or some combination of the three)...1) playing around on the computer 2) watching a movie or 3) reading a book. Somewhere in there I might just send my hubby to DQ again...twice in one week, oh the insanity! (but I deserve it!)


Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. James 1:21

Slowly but surely...

I am getting this house packed. I have sorted more stuff and posted several things on Craigslist. (you know to make a little extra that you always seem to need when you move) I have had lots of interest and we are praying that we get the price we ask on all the other stuff. I know God will come through on that part. :)


My girls have combined rooms for the next month in order to pack up and paint a room...one less thing to worry about right before we move. After packing everything, taking out the furniture and vacuuming the room, I got a little sad. I remember when we signed the papers for this house almost 3 years ago. I love this house. I loved this house the first time I saw it. This house has been and will forever be home. It will be hard to leave, but we know we are leaving it in capable hands. :) And we are looking forward to the adventure we are sure to have in WF.


Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Phil 2:9-11

Perspective...

First off, I just have to say that God is sooooooo good! 


With that out of the way...as Americans we tend to forget how good we have it. I mean really, considering that 36% of people in Africa live on less than $1 a day, I'd say we're sitting pretty high on the hog. If you look up average American income, you start seeing stuff like "net worth" and "social class" and all kinds of other stuff. Net worth? What is that anyway? And, why does it matter? To me, that's just another piece of proof that America is going to hell in a handbasket, and fast....unless we do something about it. What are we going to do? Sometimes it takes you and I stepping back and getting a different view on things...a different perspective...before we can do anything.


Today at church we had some guest speakers from Teen Life Challenge in Dallas, TX. Those men had some amazing stories! But, in my opinion, those men wasted their time if all we got out of it was a 'good story'. The words were spoken and it is our (yours and mine) responsibility to allow them to change us...even if just a little. Hearing other people's testimonies always reminds me of where the Lord brought me from...not a great place, trust me. So, what to do? Well, I for one am not going to sit here and watch all my lost friends and family go to hell. What would God say to me if I did that? He has given me plenty of opportunities to speak life into them and what have I done with it? Wasted it! Well, no more! Starting today, I will speak life and be obedient to the voice of the Lord...first I have to stop long enough to listen. So Lord, I ask you for opportunities to speak life into the people in my realm of influence, and I vow to be obedient to Your voice. In Jesus' name, amen!


Ah, Sovereign LORD, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you. Jer 32:17

Our next generation...

I now know how my mother felt when I was younger. Watching me grow up, not knowing where I would go, who I would marry, how I would live the rest of my life. It sure can get overwhelming if you let it. I quite often think about what my girls will be when they become adults...who they will marry, what will their profession be, where will they live. There is one thing about them that I know I don't have to worry about. I know they will be in heaven with me. That is comforting. Considering this earth is only our temporary home, it makes me worry less knowing that my girls will come home to me (and Jesus). Sure, sometimes I will lose focus and worry about the time my girls have on this earth, but I pray I will always remember to re-focus on Jesus and what He has for them. Kinda takes the stress out of parenting, ya know? I am grateful that my girls have a head start on this journey back Home compared to where I started. Thanks God for these beautiful gifts, and help me to always remember that they are not mine, but Yours.

Next generation, God-fearing CRAZIES!!

Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it. Proverbs 22:6

Did you see that? That was the last month flying by...

Isn't it amazing how quickly time flies by? Now, sometimes, I am a fan of the time flying by...others, not so much. Right now is not one of those times. I have 4 boxes packed (and taped), just 4. We have a 3BR 2BA house. Oh did I mention we have about 40 days? No, well we do. HOLY COW!!!! Where has the time gone? Needless to say, I'd better get busy on the packing business...or I'm gonna be scrambling come 3 weeks from now. I reckon I could take advantage of all this "lovely" weather we've been having and get to it.


Did I mention 40 days? Oh boy...this is really happening, isn't it?


I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your love and your faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your name and your word. Ps 138:2

Sometimes I just need to be reminded...

As I have said before, I'm not looking forward to leaving my friends behind. Well, the following has come out of my mouth..."I'm not going to try to make any friends. I'm gonna just keep to myself. I have all the friends I need." Or something along those lines anyway. Well, yesterday at church, a friend of mine let me know what the Lord thought about that. She told me that it broke His heart to hear me say that. That I impact so many people in so many ways just by being who I am. There are many people, close friends, who have come to know the Lord through me. Not because I am some great preacher, but because I live and LOVE as the Bible says I should. I'm no saint...and Lord knows I'm not perfect, but I try. Well, He wants me to continue to do that. So, Lord, I lay aside any aspirations (or lack there of) that I have for this upcoming move and I will walk where You want me to walk, speak what You want me to speak, love who You want me to love. I know that this is all Your doing and I will listen before I go/do/speak. Thank You for reminding me when I need to be reminded...and thank You for GREAT friends and sisters in Christ who are willing to tell me the truth in love. May I be more like them. Use me Lord!! In Jesus' name, Amen.

By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. Jn 13:35

So much to say, so much to say...

Ok, well not really. The song just popped into my head...LOL! Well, today was a great day. I slept in until 9:30! That is late for me, I'm usually up by 8. Anyway, we got up and proceeded about our day...library, picnic, bowling...well most of it anyway. When we got to the bowling alley, a daycare was there taking up all the lanes...we didn't wait for one to open...so no bowling.


Anyhow, today is Wednesday...mid-week service day at the church...you know my favorite place to be. :) The person who spoke tonight was awesome! One of our elders. The word he brought was perfect, hard to swallow, but perfect! During worship, I received a Word from the Lord through a very dear friend. I haven't been super excited about our upcoming move...well, the leaving my friends behind part anyway. I had pretty much decided that I was going to just go, put in my time, keep to myself and come back in 3 years. Well, I guess that's not really what He has in mind. (I'll elaborate more on that one later) His plans are always better, right? So thanks to my GREAT friend for reminding me what He (and you) think(s) of me...and how He works best through me.


I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your love and your faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your name and your word. Ps 138:2

Books, books and more books....yep, I'm a nerd!

Today was a lazy kind of day...kinda like our normal Monday...only it was Tuesday. The hubs was home from work yesterday and it changed our routine...not that I mind. :) So I spent my day yesterday and today reading some books...yes books. Neta Jackson, author of the Yada Yada series, has a new(er) series called The House of Hope series. I have read the Yada Yada series and LOVED them, so naturally I was eager to read more. I finished book 2 today and pick up the third one tomorrow on our weekly library trip. Yay! :)


Speaking of books, I signed up to review some good quality books...honestly. I'm good at honest. :) Well, after waiting a couple of weeks, my first book arrived today! Eager to get into it, I read the acknowledgements and prologue, and I believe this will be a book that I enjoy. It is the type of book that you have to really focus on and chew on the tidbits of information within. It's what I like to call a "beef jerky" book. LOL! Anyway, I don't want to give away the title until I do the review, so y'all will have to stay in suspense...all 8 of you! HA! Shouldn't take me more than a few days to get it done.


Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. Matt 24:35

Celebrating freedom

Yesterday was the 4th of July...doesn't mean much to someone not from America. But to us, it's the day we celebrate our independence as a country. Not just political independence, but our religious freedom as well. So it seems quite appropriate to celebrate independence day in God's house. It was a great time of worship and a good Word. Couldn't ask for better!


After church we came home and relaxed before spending the evening with some great friends. Good food, good friends, good times...can't really ask for much more. Here are a few pictures of our great time. Enjoy.

Being silly with the sparkler...

"Lady" liberty

Just a cool pic

Love this!

Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. Jn 8:32

Accepting the mantle...

You know, I've never really thought all that much of myself. Back when I was younger, I had horrible self-esteem. Growing up in a rich town and not having and abundance of money was tough. I learned to be content with what we had, but that didn't ease the pain of the words from those who thought they were better than me because they had things. I'm sure they are great people...as a matter of fact, I know they are great people, but I was not like them and therefore easy to pick on. Let's face it, that's what kids do. Anyhow, hearing words from people that were harsh began to form the thoughts that I had about myself. Once I became a believer, the Lord revealed to me what HE thought of me. This started my journey toward healing.


Most people who know me today, don't believe that I once had horrible self-esteem. Not that I'm all full of myself, but I am assured of what God thinks of me...and His is the only opinion that matters. That being said, it is still quite difficult to accept a compliment from others. And it's also hard to believe people when they say how much of a difference I've made in their walk with the Lord. In April I went on a Walk to Emmaus. I can't really describe it except to tell you it changed my life. The biggest effect on me was all the love showered on me by people I did and didn't know. I was given many notes of encouragement by many of my friends. Let me just tell you...it was, wow. I can't even think of a word to describe how amazing it was. So on those days that I begin to listen to what the enemy has to say about me, I pull out these letters and reassure myself (and him) what God and all these people think of me. I also think that reading these letters help me to realize that God thinks that I AM worthy to do His work. I really don't feel like a leader, but I know that God has called me to be. I read these letters and realize how much of an impact my life and my walk has had on others...and it helps me to get back where I'm supposed to be. Back on the path carrying His mantle...


Here are a few words written that really impacted me...and still do.


"You have a compassion and a love for people not seen in most."
"I am so thankful that God put you in my life, so I could see what a true friend is. You genuinely care for everyone and that makes you truly special."
"Praying for you has stirred my spirit and I feel your love for the Lord."
"You are such a strong, bold daughter of God! Thank you for being a great example!"


I know that these words may not seem all that profound to anyone but me, but WHO they came from...that blows me away! People that I look up to, didn't even know or never even thought I impacted in any way. Now don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to toot my own horn, just letting you know what helps to get me through those down days...


Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Col 3:12-14

Rain, rain go away!

Ok, so I really am thankful for all the rain. Considering when we first moved here, we were in a severe drought, I am grateful for the rain! But there has been icky, cloudy, rainy weather for the last week. I'm ready for some sunshine!!! I guess I will have to wait until the end of next week to get some. :(


On another note, today is my Angel's birthday. It is truly hard to believe that she is 7 already. I remember the day I found out I was pregnant with her. I was sooo excited! When the day finally came for me to meet her, I was so nervous.  Let me start by saying that she was quite the stubborn child...even in the womb. She  didn't want anyone to know her gender. I would have bet my kidney that she was a boy...but nope, out came another girl. She has always been a lovey child...and still is. She is laying her head on my shoulder as I type this. <3 We had a pretty fun day celebrating her special day. We shopped, walked through lots of puddles, ate lots of pizza and played lots of games....oh and we ate ice cream too! (and a few left over cupcakes) I am so blessed to be a mom to two great, beautiful girls. I really do love my life!!!

She's always had a pretty big personality :)

My Angel today on her 7th Birthday!

Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him. Ps 127:3