tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18231304188185958862024-02-19T14:07:53.400-08:00The Fasted LifeGalatians 5:22-23 "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law."Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.comBlogger190125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-50953829721646227292016-04-15T14:06:00.001-07:002016-04-15T14:06:27.524-07:00Blog Moved!To follow newer writings and musings please check out the new blog at <a href="http://theeverydaymiraculous.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Everyday Miraculous</a>! Blessings and thank you for following over here! See you on the other side =)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-12920569739662125832014-04-27T17:09:00.000-07:002014-04-27T17:09:08.782-07:00Taking Time in the Midst of MotherhoodThe tub fills with warm water. Bubbles building slowly. The smell of honey and tea tree mingle together in a pleasant way. <br />
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After a long week of toddler illness, husband working, and 34 weeks pregnancy malaise, I'm ready to take some time. Dearest daughter is napping finally. Her attitude snappy and fierce from not feeling well. My patience and grace is waning after the five millionth "no" or "humpf". Take time to recharge. <br />
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Taking time has never come naturally to me. Being a servant and a doer has never allowed those thoughts to enter my mind. Something has changed. <br />
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The Lord put me in a place of complete surrender. Surrender to other's doing for me. Which killed my pride. Surrender to letting go of my schedule and lists of things to do. Which pained me to the core. Surrender to the Lord. Which opened a floodgate of everything. <br />
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We went to the hospital at 19 weeks 6 days because I was having contractions and bleeding. Fearful we waited for the diagnosis. "Threatened miscarriage", "placenta previa", and "group B strep infection" all were thrust into our minds. <br />
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We also found out our sweet baby is a girl. Amelia Emerson we decided would be her name. Amelia-industrious leader and Emerson-brave. <br />
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We were released 24 hours later after being watched all night. Bed rest was the course of action. We had a long 11 weeks of this pregnancy looking at the walls of our house and the inside of doctors office and a few more trips to the hospital to boot. <br />
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Lots of time spent crying. Lots of time spent worrying. But the Lord turns things around.<br />
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Now on the other side of things with a little more activity, I'm craving those moments. That time I take to just be. In those moments, I have alone time. Not just with myself, but with the Lord. Being has allowed me to learn to connect with a new facet of my relationship with Jesus. <br />
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So as I look at the mess strewn all over the bathroom floor. The toilet that needs to be scrubbed. The millions of other things I could do while my daughter naps. I take time to worship and dialogue while in the state of being. <br />
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And that's what our relationship was supposed to be all along. No agenda, no deadline, no power meetings to list off my requests. Just a quiet space to talk about whatever may come up. To seek His face, not His hand. These moments I will treasure forever. Time well spent with the Father of all. The Father of me. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-75148161240609168272014-02-07T02:15:00.002-08:002014-02-07T02:15:59.033-08:00ChallengesNot having your days full of stuff to do/go, go, go really makes you think. A lot. About your life. And yourself. And mistakes.<br />
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Basically, you can go stir crazy in the silence and the stillness. I have done major amounts of reflecting, beating myself up, second guessing whole conversations, meditating on past or current wrong doing on my part, and generally just letting my thoughts beat me up. <br />
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It's a tough feeling. And can be very lonely. <br />
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Praise the Lord, He sends the cavalry in. I have had numerous texts and calls for people to come hang out with me for a few hours. I gladly accept! And I have been having so much fun talking to so many people about anything and everything. I'm getting to know people that I didn't have deeper relationship with a lot better and it's wonderful to see things bloom.<br />
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There are so many ups and downs in this season. The highs are high. Joyful visits. Meaningful conversations. Wisdom and revelation. Worship and praise in the midst. And the lows are extremely low. What if's asked. Doubts and fears. Misconceptions. Questioning the strength of things. <br />
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At the end of the day I have to remind myself to 1.) be thankful and 2.) my God is so much bigger than all of this. <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-57180080718492917312014-01-21T11:46:00.001-08:002014-01-21T11:46:13.844-08:00Baby On BoardIt's been a LONG time since I last posted. For one I'm pregnant with baby number 2. My sweet squirmy baby is due late May/early June. <br />
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We are having a few complications this go around. I was diagnosed with Hyperthyroidism. Not the funnest (or safest) thing to have while pregnant. Last week, I started having contractions and bleeding which landed me in the hospital overnight. They called it a threatened miscarriage and when they did an ultrasound they saw that I had the beginnings of placenta previa. So this mommy is on bed rest. Praise the Lord the baby is ok.<br />
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I have such an amazing well of support in my life and I'm so grateful! My parents who where Johnny on the Spot and stayed all weekend. My sister and brother in law that came and rearranged furniture to make the bedroom more bed rest and eventually baby friendly. My awesome BFF's who have called, texted, hung out etc. And my amazing church family who has brought meals and prayed continuously for us on this journey. <br />
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Mostly I cannot give my husband enough props! He is doing the job of ten men right now. Cooking, cleaning, toddler wrangling, errands, laundry and going to his regular job to name a few. He also surprised me with a laptop so I'm not so lonely and I can still do the admin side of my job. He is a wonderful gift from God and I love him dearly. <br />
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I know that bed rest is tough but necessary. For this busy go, go, go person, sitting still can be torture. But I want to be acceptance-with-joy and not complain (so much). I'm learning that in this season. <br />
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Another thing I'm learning. That the Lord is forcing my internal Martha to sit at the feet of Jesus and become a Mary. This morning I worshipped for the first time since I don't know when. Not like worship at church where you are dancing with your child (which is still fun, but has it's distractions), but really just me and Him worship.<br />
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I've also been finishing the mountain of half read books on my shelf. And can I tell you how life changing it is! My heart was fully tenderized for the messages that were waiting. I will write in later posts about that as well. <br />
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Until then prayers for a full term, healthy baby. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-62652409315520527242013-08-01T13:50:00.001-07:002013-08-01T13:50:52.713-07:00Lalaloopsy Doll House MakeoverWe were given this awesome huge doll house by a friends brother for Zoe. They had painted the roof pink and the rest of the house white. Zoe was still too little for dolls so we housed her stuffed animals until she got into a doll. Turns out she loved the Lalaloopsy movie when we had Netflix and wouldn't ya know it, those dolls (slightly larger than the average) fit perfectly in the doll house. She has a few already but there are a few others we want to get or are being stored for her birthday at Nene's house. <br />
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Wish I had a before pic, but don't sorry. <br />
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The house! We repainted the top to go with her "big girl" room colors (gray, yellow and purple) a pretty mellow yellow. </div>
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Tippy Tumbelina's room, very girly and sophisticated.</div>
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Pillow and Blanket coming soon. Their room. Stars, clouds, rainbows and sky blue. Perfect for napping.</div>
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Spot and Scribbles room. Looks like messy fun. </div>
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The country gals: Sunny, Prairie and Trouble. Pink plaid and yellow chevron pattern for wall. </div>
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Knowledge is power. School room/superhero room. (Bea, Specs, Peanut,and Dot coming soon). April and Dyna.</div>
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Bea's I Heart School rug. If only it said I heart homeschool...</div>
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Crumbs and Sprinkles in the kitchen. </div>
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I used scrapbook paper and some scrapbook fabric embellishments for the walls. I did paint the chalkboard on the wall (and put a scrapbook rug on the ground to cover up a spill...ooops). I intend to add "pictures" and other decorative accents in the future. I will post when they are available. </div>
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I used alot of stuff I already had, but had to get a few things here and there. So all in all, this makeover was around $10! Cheap and pretty. Zoe thinks so too. I was finishing up while she was napping and she came in and said "ooooohhhhh Mommy pretty!" </div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-72122721755246905492013-05-30T21:11:00.003-07:002013-05-30T21:11:44.927-07:00Controlling and casting out the anger beastI had a little problem. Just a tiny one really. Ok, it was big. HUGE to be exact. I struggled with anger. I say all this in the past tense to show that I'm not 100% free yet, but I will be in Jesus name!<div>
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Over the last few years I have seen the anger boiling over from time to time. I didn't like it but I assumed it was normal when your stretched thin. Well those times became more frequent, then I realized I'm living in a yelling house. I grew up in a yelling house and thought about how it was so frought with tension. While living in it, it felt normal. But seeing the destruction of anger now manifesting regularly I could see the wear and tear. Most noticeably in my daughter.</div>
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Our kids are perfect little mirrors. They display what they see. And my daughter was seeing us grumble, growl through gritted teeth in frustration, yell, scream, etc. So she started demonstrating what she saw. It hit home one day when I put her in time out and she yelled at me at the top of her lungs "I'M ANGRY!!!!" Pierce my heart! I was floored by this thing that had manifested in my daughter and what she was manifesting was me. </div>
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I confessed to a group of friends last week that I struggle with anger. They prayed for me and a friend talked to me a little while later about her struggle. Her testimony and wisdom was priceless! By confessing, repenting and now walking it out, I was seeing my daughter, husband, home and life in general in a new light. One thing she told me was that rocks are sound recorders. What ever is said to a rock (or concrete) is recorded and it echos it back in the spirit. So I had been spewing out nastyness and we were actually living in a broken record of anger. It explained so much.</div>
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So we needed to rerecord something new. Something of the Lord. We started worshipping more and more. Played the audio Bible. And are doing our best to control our tongues. It is difficult for sure. When dysfunction is your norm, breaking the cycle isn't easy.</div>
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But even after a week of trying, I see improvements in my relationship with my daughter. My husband and I are slower to anger each other. And the house is coming into a season of joy! </div>
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I made the scripture scrapbook for my daughter and I remembered a scripture passage I put in there. Ephesians 4:26-29: In your anger do not sin. Do not give the devil a foothold. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up. I definitely want to start building instead of tearing down! </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-16553987621333072302013-05-18T19:36:00.001-07:002013-05-18T19:36:12.227-07:00What's newHaven't written in a while. Last post was a stressful one for sure. Things are better, lol.<div>
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Potty training is going well! Our sweet girl is getting it down. Praise the Lord! We are busy with celebrations galore. Lots of babies being born, birthdays coming up, and graduation after graduation. So our social schedule is pretty packed for the next month and a half. </div>
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We have had some trials, ups and downs, and so on, but God is good all the time. </div>
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We are doing a Genesis 1:29 challenge for 40 days. I honestly can't remember what day we are on at the moment, but it is going well. The vegan life is totally agreeing with us. Our daughter didn't like meat in the first place so it wasn't a big change for her. I still crave stuff, but I know it won't last forever. I have lost weight, my inflamed joints don't hurt. I can actually get up from the ground and it isn't an event, as in it doesn't take forever and it doesn't hurt. When you work with kids having all these improvements are AWESOME!! I can run around for a lot longer now. Totally beneficial. </div>
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As of right now though. I feel all weird and awkward. Like I'm out of place.... Weird right? Don't know what it's about. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-15701844471711403322013-04-20T19:21:00.000-07:002013-04-20T19:21:47.984-07:00And today wasn't great...We had a rough day. We are at the end of a week of trying to potty train. Which wasn't terribly successful, but not a complete fail either. We have had power struggles and ups and downs. Today was a pretty down day.<br />
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Woke up exhausted which already puts mommy on edge. My daughter was full on defiant for 85% of the day so I believe I yelled for like 75%. I was ready to pull my hair out numerous times.<br />
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It was a long day without Daddy home because he was working overtime. <br />
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At the end of a long, hard day like today I feel like a failure. That my anger got the better of me. That I didn't love and correct... I scolded and yelled. I didn't show my daughter Jesus. She is my first ministry and when I'm not feeling it, I blow up. Lots of time outs, lots of NOs, lots of "why aren't you listening to me?", on and on. Worst mom of the year award should go to me.<br />
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I know that children help pull out of you the sin in your heart and bring it to the light. Truth is my fuse isn't very long. I don't have grace in abundance. But this is what I'm displaying to my child that there is no grace. Don't get me wrong grace is not a licence to sin, but an exhortation to pursue holiness. I'm not motivating her to want to do the right thing. <br />
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It's hard to have a ministry that sees your every weakness. If you have a ministry outside the home you have a retreat. When you are with them (children or spouse) 24/7, they see the good, the bad, and the ugly.<br />
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Well how do I show less bad and ugly and start showing the good? How do you pursue holiness and show it to your child? Especially one that is extremely strong willed. How do you sow into their redemptive gift and raise them rightly? <br />
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These have all been heavy on my heart the last few weeks. The desire to be a mother after God's own heart, training up children the way that they should go, but feeling overwhelmed and defeated most days. I know Mommy Guilt is very real, and the accuser wants to beat us with it, but I know that this is only a season and the devil is a liar. <br />
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Through the exhaustion, guilt, ponderings, and drained feelings, I can only thank God that His mercies are new every morning. I get another shot to get it right tomorrow. Not that it will ever be 100%, but we can get close. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-29872021029991189482013-04-18T14:16:00.000-07:002013-04-18T14:16:06.552-07:00Scripture written on hearts of fleshWhen my daughters was very little, I saw this on Pinterest...<a href="http://www.carissagraham.com/2012/03/i-made-book-scripture-scraps.html" target="_blank">Scripture Scraps by Carissa Graham</a>. <br />
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I made one for my niece and nephew after they were baptized about a year later and started one for my own daughter. <br />
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I put down the book half finished for over another year. My plate was full and I was overwhelmed. Well a sweet friend posted a pic of some journals her daughter and she had decorated. This spurred me to pick it up and finish this sweet little gift for my daughter. <br />
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I sought the Lord for most of my scriptures. Some He had already spoken over Zoe, but some He wants her to cherish. And some totally corresponded to the page design in the book. It was a perfect book for my daughter! It was nice to set aside the time to press in to prayer for my daughter and her future. More so than the daily prayers we usually pray. <br />
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Here are some pics. I used the Retro (light blue) Smash book for her. <br />
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Love this idea and am going to work on one for myself. Just nice reminders of what the Lord has spoken/is speaking to you. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-72819242987409035642013-03-23T22:16:00.000-07:002013-03-23T22:16:36.334-07:00Wild Windy WestMy mother, daughter and I went back to our roots these past few days. Back to West Texas, to a tiny town that is dying out. <br />
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Lots of happy memories have happened there. A lot of sad ones too. Everything about it screamed of one memory or another.<br />
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Driving through town that once had nice businesses, but are now run down. I could almost see the original facades superimposed over the new faded and broken ones. The statue of justice in front of the courthouse with one missing scale and cracked up her center. The many businesses that are no longer there. New ones that I wonder how they survive.<br />
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The Baptist church that looks exactly the same. The red clay soil that covers your shoes anytime you step outside. I could even see our little white tennis shoes turned an orange-red everytime we drove back to Houston. The dry landscape that hasn't seen rain in around 3 years. One of my favorite fragrances growing up was after it rained in West Texas. The smell of fresh rain mixed with the red clay soil mingled with heat created the most unique and soothing smell. You could almost sense it was the smell the ground emitted in thanksgiving for much needed rain. It saddens me that the smell hasn't been around for that long.<br />
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My great-grandmother's house that has been modified and changed. My great uncle's house now owned by a cousin. His father still running his ranch on the mountain, but weary from lack of rain. <br />
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And our sweet family friend who passed away at the wonderful age of 96. She was a second great-grandma to us. Full of life, love, and Jesus. She was always on the go and very determined. Always giving out "sugars", hugs and a love of learning. Lots of things I miss about this town, and she is definitely at the top of the list. <br />
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I wasn't particularly sad when I heard she passed. I was at peace, because I knew she was at peace. She lived every day to the fullest. Smart as a whip and wise until the day she died. I can honestly say, "I'll see you soon" instead of "goodbye" to her. Which makes my heart so happy. <br />
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She was truly inspiring. I hope I live my life half as well as she did. We love you and miss you, Kewpie, but "it's just a little while longer, till I see you. Just a little while longer till I know you. Just a little while longer and we will be together."<br /><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-87958179830337606562013-03-10T23:04:00.001-07:002013-03-10T23:04:46.900-07:00Facing the AccuserThis post has been sitting in my draft pile for a long time now. Just a title, nothing typed in the body. Just waiting for the right words. <br />
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I have had so much freedom and so much warfare since typing that title. Where to begin?...<br />
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I found out recently what my redemptive gift was, Mercy. Well Mercy's are people pleasers. To that I said a hearty "duh"! Because that is me to a T. I will go out of my way to please people. It's a stronghold in my life that I have battled against since I was born basically. I will go more in depth on the redemptive gifts stuff in other posts, but basically it explains my whole life. <br />
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A few weeks ago, I attended a class talking more in depth about our redemptive gifts and the strongholds behind them. The teacher said that each of us have a foundational lie in our lives. Something that is the root lie that we have believed our entire lives. It is tied to our gift and it explains so much of our struggle everyday. <br />
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I thought wow, that seems intense, I'm no where near finding mine out. Boy was I wrong! Later that night I was talking to a friend about the same issue I have every week, sometimes every day. I have an issue interacting with people. I will go someplace, be around people I love and care for, then go home and pick apart every part of our interaction and see how I messed up the whole thing and how they must hate me for it. CRAZY SAUCE! I know! <br />
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Well she was reassuring me yet again, that yes I am indeed crazy. Lol, it was more like why do you believe that about yourself. The Lord struck my heart in a whole new way in the midst of her praying for me. He revealed how I have always believed the lie "I'm no good and I will never be any good." I wept and wept. <br />
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The next 24 hours the Lord revealed every area I have believed that lie in my life. It ties into how I want to be well liked, but I'm sure that will never happen because I'm no good. He even reeled it all the way back to before birth. Rejection by my father. Growing up feeling rejected by every family member, either perceived or real. Classmates who said harsh things that stuck out as truth but were bald faced lies.<br />
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That was a sobering 24 hours. The Lord reminded me to meditate on what He alone says about me. Praise of man is but a vapor, but the Word of the Lord is eternal. I was on a whole new playing field! <br />
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There was pep in my step for a whole week. Then I was tested. I was in a situation that caused me to listen to the lies again. I was crying out to God. He reminded me "what is your foundational lie?" I told Him, "that I'm no good". And He said "and what do I say about you?" I said "that I'm loved and cherished, but God You must not really know me. I am pretty bad. Do you know what I've done in my life? You really must not know the real me." Then I stopped myself and chuckled thinking "did I just argue with God about HIS Word?" That helped get me off the crazy train and back to the heart of the matter.<br />
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Satan comes with so many accusations. He uses anything that will get us off track. He will flat out lie, lie with a truth, lie with our history, and on and on. The only truth that matters is His. Each time Satan comes with lies, I have to face my accuser and call him out for what he is, a liar. <br />
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There is so much freedom in knowing these things. I was so afraid of finding out that it would mean more pain and anguish. Some things are painful to sift through, but there is a new depth of joy underneath each one. I can't help but rejoice in His truth! Worship has taken on a whole new meaning in the last few weeks. I feel like I'm not weighed down by staring, judgmental eyes (eyes that were never focused on me to begin with) and I can move in a new direction. Keeping step with the King. Not fighting against the flow of the Holy Spirit, but in the river rush towards the heart of God. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-38574034351711307552013-02-02T14:52:00.000-08:002013-02-02T14:52:13.032-08:00RenewalWhen we come to God, we have a renewal. A renewal of life because we are made new again. <br />
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I just watched a video of <a href="http://www.iamsecond.com/seconds/anne-rice/" target="_blank">Anne Rice</a> for I am Second. Oh my goodness, I was so moved. Anne Rice and her vampire chronicles made such an impact on my adolescent, young adult life. I was pagan during high school and college. I read every novel she wrote and admired her writing so deeply. Vampires were very much an attraction to me. Watching her video about her return to faith in Jesus was amazing. <br />
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I put those novels away when I came to Christ and was saddened by the fact that such a wonderful writer could write about such things. Yet, there was always something in them that spoke of God. Not that they honored him, mind you, but some sort of sadness that seemed overwhelming. In the video she spoke of how she reflected on her novels and how she really can see that there was a longing for God written out on the pages, not explicitly but subtly.<br />
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I can relate. I grew up in a household that went to church on Sundays, but did not understand the fullness of God's glory. I turned away from God in order to "fulfill myself" at a young age, instead of embracing the true fulfillment of Christ. All through my wanderings, everything I tried to do subconsciously reached out for God. I tried to "harness" power through witchcraft that was not mine to hold. I longed for status and prominence. I wanted to walk in authority, but had none. <br />
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I wanted all the things God promises, but through my own way and understanding. <br />
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Looking back, I can see how all these efforts to "fulfill" myself where such a sad attempt and a crying out to God. I struggled, and still do on occasion, with knowing God loves me despite my past. And that, yes, purity is for EVERYONE. Not just for the one who never strayed, but for the prodigal as well. Renewal is for us all.<br />
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A few weeks ago, a friend spoke to me about how God knew we would say yes to Him from the beginning of time. When He authored our lives, He knew on what page we would give our hearts to Him. Such a beautiful and suspenseful novel He has written for each of us. The weary come to Him, after fighting long and hard, and surrender all for His name and glory. <br />
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I was reading in Mark this past Thursday about Jesus calling his Disciples. How he could call to two on a boat to come and they did. His best of best friends. Those closest to Him. And He knew that they would say yes from the beginning of time. That when He called out to those that would serve with Him in earthly ministry, that they would say yes. I shiver with excitement to think that He saw His best friends (even though they didn't know it yet), He knew exactly when to call them, and that they would with out a doubt say yes. What do you think He felt like when He saw them? 'Hey that's one of my dearest friends, they don't know me yet, but today is the day they will say yes to me!' <br />
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My heart bursts with joy when I think of this. Because do you think He might think about us that way? He surely does. He loves us that much! The day I said yes to Him, He was bursting with excitement because He knew that day was the day. I know He thought that about Ms. Anne Rice as well. He thinks that about you too. You just have to say yes. He already knows it's in your heart. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-72813365131872615972013-01-28T09:31:00.000-08:002013-01-28T09:31:09.588-08:00Why I'm tired todayThe weather here in Texas has been wacky. It's always wacky, but this is super wacky. It's hot, then cold, then hot, then cold. My sinuses are on overload and are screaming.<br />
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We have the sweet, sweet relief of an essential oil diffuser. Oh how I love essential oils! I could talk all day about it, but that's for another post. I decided to sleep last night with the diffuser going. Knowing my daughter had a stuffy nose as well, I decided I would let her sleep with me in the essential oil bliss. <br />
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Sleeping with a toddler in bed sounds like a great idea... for about 20 minutes. Then you think "I immediately regret this decision". <br />
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It starts out with the "oh, I get to cuddle my baby" and "I could just cuddle like this forever" and "it will be like when she was a tiny baby". You are WRONG! Quit thinking it as soon as it pops in your head. <br />
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After about 20 minutes, the tossing, turning and flopping like a fish starts and doesn't stop until you both decide you can't take it anymore and get up because sleep is not happening. I'm stubborn so we tried until 7 AM this morning. <br />
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My daughter also likes to hold your hand while she sleeps. So cute, until your arm falls asleep in an awkward position or her talon-like finger nails jab you repeatedly. Those fingernails are nice little reminders of what you were supposed to do that day. "Oh snap, I forgot to cut her fingernails!" <br />
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Right after we laid down, she was awake and wanted to stay awake. She was talking and messing with things. She likes to "boop" my nose when I'm almost asleep. I will be on the cusp and then all of a sudden a tiny finger comes up and "boops" the tip of my nose. And it sounds cute while your typing it, but when you are sleep deprived and about to be asleep, it is NOT CUTE. <br />
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She also likes to slap you while your sleeping, be it face, back, arm etc. She will raise her arm high in the air then let it fall on you. It's not hard, but it's startling. <br />
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About 3 AM, I finally had had it. I spoke sternly to my daughter how it was "night night" time and how she needs to sleep because mommy needs to sleep. Then she started sniffling cause I was being harsh, then I felt bad so I went back to cuddle mode. Which then lasted another 5 minutes then the fish flopping started again. <br />
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This time she flopped so hard and so much that she flopped off the bed. Literally flopped over the barriers I created. That is frightening to no end! She was totally fine. Now we are both completely awake because of our scare.<br />
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Around 5 AM sleep or some symbalance of it comes and we are out for a total of 2 hours. I can't sleep deeply now because of our falling off the bed scare. So I sleep as lightly as possible. At 7 she is awake again. Seriously how little sleep does a kid need? <br />
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If you know me and if you ever hear me say "oh it's ok, she can just sleep with us tonight", slap me across the face and point me to this post. It may not be worth it for all the heart stopping fear, the frustration, and the toddler kicks and slaps. <br />
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But it sure is cute when they do fall asleep in your arms. Like when they were a little baby. All cozy and safe in mommy's arms. The deep breathing, the peaceful look on their face... My daughter is napping, I may go cuddle with her now. <br />
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Oh, wait... I may just watch her on the video monitor instead. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-43092938303540409372012-11-16T11:40:00.001-08:002012-11-16T11:40:07.183-08:00Two weeks down. We are at over two weeks now. No eating out, no fast food. Yay! Working hard at being obedient. <br />
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We are contemplating going on a date tonight and we were talking about eating food at the movies. Do we, don't we, etc. For me, I can't. I can't go down the slippery slope like that again. So I will be eating before I go and I am contemplating turning into that person.... bringing my own snacks to the movies. I'm torn between the "don't bring your own food" policy and the need to not fall off the wagon. I'm sure I will have peace as the movie time gets closer, so we will see.<br />
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On another note, getting ready for Thanksgiving!!! My favorite of favorite holidays! We hosted last year and we are doing it again. It's an easy way for us to spend time with both sides of the family. Because we all know it's hard to split time between two families. Do ya feel me? <br />
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That's all for now. Back to a fun project that I can't wait to complete. I will post pictures. =)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-22945025999299217152012-11-04T16:05:00.001-08:002012-11-04T18:14:15.346-08:00MeditationI made it a week! I can't believe it. There were many, many, MANY times I thought I would cave and give in. The only way to make it through to deliverance of a stronghold (especially one that's left, regrouped, and returned) is submission to God. Continual submission. I can't do this in my own strength at all.<br />
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This week made me realize how weak and vulnerable I am and have become over the past few months. I have come to the revelation that I have allowed myself to meditate on 1.) what other's thought of me and 2.) my negative thoughts of myself. I could link to every post I have ever written about emotional eating and my own struggle with poor self esteem, but you would be reading for hours. </div>
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I had gained a measure of freedom in the realm of fear of rejection/praise of man, but I didn't know how deep it went until I went a little deeper with the Lord. Oh my, the root is deep and the anxiety it produced was paralyzing. I couldn't go anywhere without meditating on and tearing apart each conversation/awkward look I got from every person I encountered. </div>
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It wasn't until a couple of weeks ago that I really saw the need for deliverance. I am still in that place of anxious mediation and I'm seeking the Lord for freedom. I need to replace improper meditation with meditating on what the Lord thinks, feels, and says. Prayers are appreciated for sure if you are lead to pray.</div>
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We have a long way to go and I don't think it's a coincidence that we reentered this lifestyle change right before the holidays. I feel that the Lord will guide each and every step of the journey back to the fasted lifestyle. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-70331607578616548042012-10-29T22:30:00.001-07:002012-10-29T22:30:02.959-07:00Reboot-Our journey to the fasted lifestyle, Take 2, Pt. 1Today is our first day back on the journey. Officially. We had tried several times to get back on track, but have failed again and again.<br />
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I must say this time around is EXTREMELY difficult! We had defeated a big demon in our lives. Then we caved and it is bigger and badder than ever. The hubby and I were talking about how difficult it was when I was dropping him off at work. Bottom line, we allowed something back in our lives and it brought seven more of it's friends. So now we are fighting off a slew of demons instead of one, see Matthew 12:43-45.<br />
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The entire summer and early fall has been horrendous. We have spent and ate way more than just a tree. Obedience and discipline are hard, but it's a choice. We were choosing to disobey and do our own thing for convenience sake. <br />
<br />
The price of disobedience is way too high. Physically (see my post about PRICE), emotionally (I was eating to comfort myself due to some really wicked anxiety attacks), and spiritually (we are so distant from the Lord, that I'm desperately lovesick). <br />
<br />
Today we started again. We are rebooting our walk. I cannot tell you what a struggle it was. I went to visit a friend this evening and she called as I was pulling onto her street to see if I could stop and get her a soda. I was really glad I was already too close to turn around. The temptation would have been too great. I was already white knuckling it to get to her house, gripping the steering wheel with everything I had to keep myself from turning into a fast food place to get a "quick bite". <br />
<br />
So now we detox. The cravings will subside. The attacks will come less and less. Our all around health will improve. We will sit in the Word and soak in it's goodness. <br />
<br />
Today- I choose obedience. I choose discipline. I choose God's best for me and my family. I choose God as my audience. (I will repeat this everyday if I have to, several times a day if need be.) <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-12018166014723839112012-10-07T18:14:00.001-07:002012-10-07T18:14:17.105-07:00PriceI have been under the weather for about two weeks. Not many people know because I have not wanted to talk/complain about it. <br />
<br />
I have had a localized abdominal pain that has been slowly getting worse over the past few weeks. I did nothing about it because "it will go away". Well it didn't. I was in such pain this past Friday that I went to the doctor. <br />
<br />
She said that I have diverticulitis (not a new diagnosis) and that I'm experiencing a flare up. FUN! Not so much. I'm on two antibiotics and I LOATHE antibiotics. I haven't had a flare up in a long time, so it caught me off guard.<br />
<br />
If you have never heard of diverticulitis, it's a chronic condition that creates pockets on the intestines and they can occasionally become inflamed and infected. Nothing contagious mind you, just nasty nagging pain all day and night. <br />
<br />
How does one get this condition? I'm so glad you asked. It's because of eating processed food. It is a newer condition. It did not show up until the early 1900's because that's when processed food was introduced to our way of life. Our processed food has no nutritional value and no fiber so our intestines become malformed and things can get ugly pretty fast.<br />
<br />
I feel I could be the poster child for "Don't feed your kids processed food" or "Eat organic or pay the price". I have had so many stomach/digestive issues all because of food. Nothing hereditary. Nothing genetic. All food! I didn't eat the best growing up. Lots of sugar, canned veggies, and pre-made stuff. Now I'm literally paying the price of poor eating habits.<br />
<br />
The hubby and I were on a good path at the end of Spring and over the summer we got WAY off track. We ate horribly and spent what we didn't need to spend. The Lord told us how He wants us to live and we have been in rebellion. I know the Lord is not punishing me, but that He can't move in power in my life if I'm not doing what He wants me to do. He sometimes has to step out of the way and give us over to the consequence of our sin for things to change. <br />
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"The wages of sin is death". I don't feel I will literally die. But I'm having physical manifestations of my sin played out. The fruit of what He has for me is dying on the vine while I take my time on my way to obedience. <br />
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So that's where I'm at. Frustrated with myself and deeply desiring to quit this cycle of defeat. Prayers are appreciated. <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-48616527338711549672012-09-23T16:11:00.003-07:002012-09-23T16:11:46.667-07:00Stomach Bug 2012The resting I talked about in the last post... well didn't happen as much as I would have liked. The tiredness I was feeling last Monday was the start of a kidney infection brought on by extreme intact of caffiene and sugar to keep me going (and you guessed it, stress). <br />
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I was out of commission for about 3 days. Drank nothing but water and a little bit of organic no sugar added cranberry juice. That stuff is NASTY! <br />
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My little girl came down with a yucky stomach bug that's been going around. She threw up a total of 10 times over the course of about 4.5 hours. We stayed up and watched corny movies, tried to sleep on the couch together (she did, I didn't) and got up at around 5 AM. I had to go get the hubby at about 6 AM because I just couldn't stay awake any longer. <br />
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I napped from about 6:30 to about 8:30. I literally dreamed my husband came to wake me up because he needed me for something. I went out and he said, "why are you awake?" I said you just came to get me. Oh tricky sleep deprived mind. <br />
<br />
So today we have been napping, feeding our girl very little but with lots of water and pedialyte, cleaning/disinfecting, slathering ourselves with essential oils to prevent us from getting it as well. Both the hubby and I have had some tummy twitches, but we are praying they pass quickly. We don't need to have a full blown stomach bug later in the week because of my sweet cousin's wedding.<br />
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That's where we are right now. Have a healthy week everyone!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-56800215135973062982012-09-17T11:32:00.002-07:002012-09-17T11:32:58.169-07:00BreathingI have made it to the third week of September intact! I really was wondering if I would make it. I kept saying "if I can make it through September" every time I would feel overwhelmed. <br />
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But by grace I have made it to a plateau. Which is a seriously good thing. I was beginning to stress so bad that shingles was threatening to return and my hair was falling out. <br />
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I feel for the sweet friends and family that have seen me wide eyed and frantic. And I appreciate those who prayed for me both in person and from afar. Thank you all so much.<br />
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The stress was worth it though. I have spent some great time with friends and family every weekend. I have celebrated with my best friend. I have grown closer to people I had hoped I would grow closer to for years. I had my first night/weekend away from my daughter and I did not freak out (I actually did great) and it gave me a sweet renewing that I needed. I have had great encouragement in a new endeavor.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif1EBvhq0AgtXnFCbbgWYsXPakjShh-tQ7aRa1gh8mGTXmhfnBNhyo_YjX6yQfwgeBFR2c9ecJpphfmnLkqnK8RLvo_9aBH-XuGq8F6hgsV_AURkGaJ2gbACC7RksIZbgEvd5EfVRk6A/s1600/IMG_20120915_135639.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif1EBvhq0AgtXnFCbbgWYsXPakjShh-tQ7aRa1gh8mGTXmhfnBNhyo_YjX6yQfwgeBFR2c9ecJpphfmnLkqnK8RLvo_9aBH-XuGq8F6hgsV_AURkGaJ2gbACC7RksIZbgEvd5EfVRk6A/s1600/IMG_20120915_135639.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our view from the Gristmill in Gruene, TX.<br />We went to Gruene for my cousins Bachelorette<br />Weekend. It was a very relaxing weekend!</td></tr>
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I'm glad to be on the other side of the bulk of the chaotic schedule, but I can look back and see the blessings in each portion of the last few weeks. <br />
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For today, I'm taking a break and breathing a little bit. I'm not going to worry that the house is messy, that I have fall decorations to put up, that I have a mountain of things to get done that have been pushed aside. I'm going to take it slow, enjoy the day with my hubby and daughter and see what the Lord has for us. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-27820911925859495062012-08-26T18:25:00.003-07:002012-08-26T18:25:56.716-07:00Week 21: Our journey to the fasted lifestyle, pt. 29Not quite there, but still close. <br />
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There is so much to say, but I'm really struggling to determine what to type. Let's just say that my heart is heavy and burdened, but I can't put it into words. I think I will have to save it for another post or two. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-19374926925129775982012-08-18T12:56:00.001-07:002012-08-18T12:57:40.229-07:00Almost there, weeks 19 & 20: Our journey to the fasted lifestyle, pt. 28We are almost back on track fully. We ate out only once this past week and it was truly due to extenuating circumstances. We had a gas leak in the house and we snacked, but couldn't get into the fridge or cook until after the gas guy left. Well by that time we were on our way to church and absolutely had to eat something. That was our one and only time to eat out this week.<br />
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It makes me so happy to even type that! The previous week was very hard and we had to have some serious discussions about our discipline and obedience. Our finances are extremely tight yet again due to eating our money. It has been for the past two and a half months since falling off the wagon. <br />
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We talked about how when a demon is kicked out we have to be on guard to not let it and seven of it's friends back in. We were discussing how this time was so much harder and it's because we let our guard down. Are we gonna let satan get the best of us? No! So we have to pick ourselves back up and do it and not just talk about it. <br />
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Last week's message at church, our pastor talked about doing our part. I can pray to be healthy and fit all day, but am I doing my part. No, I haven't been. I've been eating junk but expecting a miracle to change my situation. How can He give me such a great blessing if I'm just going to throw it away? <br />
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So that's the main theme of the past two weeks, doing our part. The Lord will do His. Here we go! Thanks Lord for getting us back on track!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG1AFgzjn5wTRs9CgMZOqznd243koekBL4NwvtX8xkyNmltR1-Qc17_LNNrPGosVIcXSUHl6hFFvkVCXLNteYl3nlhCW0_MwSCVJPcC36A7ipSLFbLOMPd9vK7IN3kbswPgCe8VNEgvw/s1600/IMG_8937.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG1AFgzjn5wTRs9CgMZOqznd243koekBL4NwvtX8xkyNmltR1-Qc17_LNNrPGosVIcXSUHl6hFFvkVCXLNteYl3nlhCW0_MwSCVJPcC36A7ipSLFbLOMPd9vK7IN3kbswPgCe8VNEgvw/s320/IMG_8937.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoe at a park feeding the ducks. She loved it!</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-12326780135871146422012-08-04T14:11:00.000-07:002012-08-04T14:11:48.285-07:00Week 17 & 18: Our journey to the fasted lifestyle, pt. 27Not much change in our eating/spending from the previous month. Which makes me sad. The Lord is good because He has been so gracious to us and provided despite our disobedience. <br />
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I did have a lot of revelation the last few days specifically on the topic of obedience. I went to Texas Homeschool Coalition Convention here in The Woodlands. I know our girl is 19 months old, but I wanted to get a foundation for preschool. <br />
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I had grand plans, but saw that I could be easily overwhelmed when I started looking at the seminars available. I wanted to go listen about things that are so great, but not really what I was needing at the moment. So I asked the Lord what I should do. He guided me to the seminars and areas that were PERFECT for me. <br />
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I sat in on seminars dealing with child training, toddlers, and discipline. Basically, the Lord was telling me about myself. Of course! My heart was so convicted about how lack of discipline trickles down to our little ones. <br />
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I know that my discipline to the Lord is between Him and I, but our kids do observe and if we are disobedient, then our kids will be too. One woman defined obedience in her home. Basically obedience is supposed to be done 1.) cheerfully, 2.) completely, and 3.) immediately. She explained that if your child does something immediately and completely but is complaining, then they are rebellious in their heart.<br />
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Talk about heart piercing. When I obey the Lord, it isn't always done cheerfully. So I'm still rebelling in my own heart. It's so like the Lord to impart knowledge and wisdom for my situation as a parent, but also as His child. For that I'm truly grateful. It showed me that I want to obey the first time, to the fullness, and with a smile on my face and song in my heart. <br />
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Thank You Lord that I could go for these divine appointments. You guided me as to what I needed to hear and what will get us back on track.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-16929406440907923282012-07-21T14:59:00.004-07:002012-07-21T19:36:13.842-07:00Week 16: Our journey to the fasted lifestyle, pt. 26This week has been amazing, sad, joyful, heartbreaking, encouraging, humbling all wrapped up into one. We are feeling the stirrings of revival in our church. Lots of stuff in my heart is coming to the light and being swept away. <br />
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I made some hard admissions and felt things that I thought were gone, but they were just buried and festering. I had my whole being shaken in ways I never knew existed. <br />
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I prayed and the answer was no and then I was left wondering why? I prayed and the answer was yes, but I was left wondering why now?<span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">The biggest thing that came out of this week is a closer relationship with Jesus. When I was asking my "why's" to the Lord, He showed me Job 40:2a- </span><span style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Will the one who contends with the Almighty </span><sup class="crossreference" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-13867A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></sup><span style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">correct him? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I'm having to learn that the why's don't matter, but that His judgments and timing are perfect. With the why's I was telling God how to do His job. Not my place. Just my place to trust. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">That's where I'm at, I will elaborate more as the Lord leads. </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIS8Ymuf_ZwgoN1M2gyiP4UbAB3ydLBwnAkhc399SklEIGeOkXtXYcecGfoSXn2mfM6dmLuIM1CJ_NKCF3VSU09d-XahY_ibMWrP3PGA4qBR_VN7vSwscVpYHQi_Ax9l95QlhV-bwM-Q/s1600/IMG_1521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIS8Ymuf_ZwgoN1M2gyiP4UbAB3ydLBwnAkhc399SklEIGeOkXtXYcecGfoSXn2mfM6dmLuIM1CJ_NKCF3VSU09d-XahY_ibMWrP3PGA4qBR_VN7vSwscVpYHQi_Ax9l95QlhV-bwM-Q/s320/IMG_1521.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-auto;">“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; </span><b style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-auto;">knock</b><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> and the door will be opened to you."-Matthew 7:7</span></span>
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<i>Image courtesy of <a href="http://www.blissphotos.net/" target="_blank">Bliss Photography</a></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-29589860227483256012012-07-16T18:46:00.000-07:002012-07-16T18:49:41.228-07:00RestThe day is hectic. Rain off and on for days can make things feel a little closed in. While I'm thankful for the rain, I'm ready to go back out into the world. <br />
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I get my opportunity and it starts raining yet again. I come home feeling slightly defeated. My daughter is sleepy, I am too. I go put her in her crib for a nice afternoon nap and she cries. She keeps crying.<br />
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I go back to her and think, "you are tired, just rest already". The conditions are perfect for a nap: rainy weather, light thunder, dark afternoon, cozy sleeping arrangement. What else do you need? <br />
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I begin to rock her and hold her like a little baby. The baby she no longer is. I'm holding a toddler. She drifts off and I don't really notice because I'm rocking and singing. I look down and there is my little baby again. Her weight, features, and length completely different, but the look is the same as the day she was born. The look of peace, comfort, and rest. <br />
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How I remember those days rocking, nursing, or snoozing together on the couch when she was little. Those times are few and far between now. She wants her independence and most times fights to stay awake until she is in her own bed. But looking at her peaceful countenance I flashback to one and half years ago and play all those memories back like a movie. I cannot fathom the precious gift each one is. <br />
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I long to have that comfort, peace, and rest in my life. It is free to obtain, but my independence is in the way. I can run to my Father and lay in His lap, but I don't. I fight to stay awake. I fight to handle things my own way. <br />
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Why can't I rest? He knows I'm tired and the conditions are perfect: I'm thirsty for the Word, I have wounds that need healing, and I want to know Him more. Why do I think I know better?<br />
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He longs for me to rest in His arms. To see peace wash over my face. To know that I know that I'm protected, safe, and completely comfortable in His presence. Yet I don't. Stubborn as a mule, I don't budge closer than I dare. <br />
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Am I afraid? Sometimes. Do I trust Him? Yes and no. I'm sometimes afraid that if I trust Him, He will give me more sorrow or anguish than I can bear. So I hold Him at an arms length. And for that I'm sorry Lord. <br />
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I look down at my daughter again and I think of how she trusts me wholeheartedly. I know that the feelings she has for me are a picture of what I should have for the Lord. And the love I feel for her is just a fraction of what the Lord feels for us. I want to be wholeheartedly trusting of the Lord. Even now, my heart breaks at just the thought of loving on the level I need to love. I long for it as He longs for my heart. <br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqVh6bzVeJqiUYw1tmV9tZkpZ7Ei4ztMaviSz0JHvAqqRlznT5KLuIizn5VDs17HsIP9HohFTCKnLjb5Y-L2w8XKk0TlDd4C2yTV6tT3VbqvsV5I5RigqAtjM6anzPBLVyROZy4yggHw/s1600/IMG_2706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqVh6bzVeJqiUYw1tmV9tZkpZ7Ei4ztMaviSz0JHvAqqRlznT5KLuIizn5VDs17HsIP9HohFTCKnLjb5Y-L2w8XKk0TlDd4C2yTV6tT3VbqvsV5I5RigqAtjM6anzPBLVyROZy4yggHw/s200/IMG_2706.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoe asleep on Mommy, 1 Month</td></tr>
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I know He won't leave me where I am. "He won't relent until He has it all." Remove the things that hinder love, Lord. I want to dance after You with joy, fall into Your arms and rest in perfect peace.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1823130418818595886.post-6411300659979561442012-07-15T14:37:00.000-07:002012-07-15T14:37:02.007-07:00Week 15: Our journey to the fasted lifestyle, pt. 25We are slowly but surely making it back to the right path. We ate out twice this week which is getting closer to the mark.<br />
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<div>
We learned a lot this week through warfare, repentance, and pressing. </div>
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1. Things will come at you when you least expect. The enemy can attack in any way, shape, or form. </div>
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2. Eating your emotions is not a healthy way to deal with your circumstance (one of the times we ate out). </div>
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3. Close friends and family are priceless! A friend who will pray for you is invaluable.</div>
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4. There is a definite need for people who will mirror a healthy, honest image of you back to yourself. If you have mud on your face and you don't have a mirror who will tell you? A true friend.</div>
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5. Meditate on the Lord's thoughts for you and no one else's. </div>
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6. Bitterness hinders revival (and miracles). Turn from it, repent, and you will see true freedom.</div>
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7. A snippet from the message at church today: Prayer and fasting is not a substitute for obedience. (Will expand on that in a little bit).</div>
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8. There is no Junior Holy Spirit. Some kids will blow you away with their knowledge and wisdom.</div>
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9. You don't know your strength until you are tested.</div>
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10. Envy causes the Lord to crush the object of envy in order to produce compassion. (Finished up reading Envy by Bob Sorge. LOTS of wisdom and revelation!)</div>
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We have so much to learn about God's will. That's the ultimate lesson this week. </div>
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As for the snippet from the message- The revelation is that we can fast and pray but if we are not obedient, then the fasting and praying won't produce what we are desiring. The Lord cannot move without obedience. </div>
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Another pastor wrote on his facebook status: "<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">If your intentions don't lead to obedience then your good intentions are just hidden rebellion"-Luke Holter. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Yikes! So I'm really rebelling when I don't walk in obedience to the Holy Spirit. How many times have I said, "Lord, I will get to it" and never really do. So today, I'm restarting this whole thing. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">As I'm walking out obedience, </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">I'm contending for many things, but mostly I contend for a transformed life. A life that brings glory to God. </span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03431468723214319070noreply@blogger.com0