This week is a special week for me. Mike and I celebrated our anniversary on the 26th and just three days later we get to celebrate Mike's birthday! In honor of these events, I feel it only appropriate to write about my best friend and husband.
It is hard to believe that we have only been married for 3 years. I don't know that I can remember what it was like to not be married. The last three years have been some of the best in my life. I remember before Mike and I were even dating telling my mom that I wanted to marry someone just like Mike Darling. He always seemed to be different than all the other guys I knew. Something about him was really special. As I got to know him more I would have never imagined that he would have chosen me to spend his life with.
Here are a few things that I LOVE about Mike:
1. He encourages me to be a better person. He isn't afraid to call me out about a bad attitude, etc.
2. In that regard he has a way of making me laugh when I am in a bad mood. It isn't easy to be mad around him.
3. He always has a song in his soul and usually is spreading it to those around him.
4. Mike has a calming spirit on those around him.
5. If Mike is talking to someone he is giving them his full attention, regardless if it means he is not able to do other things he was supposed to do. People know that he is listening and he cares by the way he treats them.
6. I have been overwhelmed and blown away by the way he has taken on the responsibility of full-time ministry. It truly feels like his talents are being unleashed.
7. His gift for leading others in worship is incredible. I feel his enthusiasm while he is leading.
8. He works hard for our little family and always tries to go the extra mile.
9. Integrity is something embodied in Mike. He is one of the most honest, trustworthy people I know.
10. He always has a kind word and a blessing for those he encounters from the bank teller to the waitress at the restraunt.
11. Little kids LOVE him. When he is gone all the kids ask, Where's Mike? Where's Mike? I can't wait to parent with him someday.
12. He is willing to help around the house with whatever needs to be done.
13. He never lets his arthritis be an excuse for why he can't do something. He endures alot of pain most days.
14. He has a heart for faith formation. He is great at not berating someone when they do something wrong but using the moment to examine the kind of person God wants us to be.
15. He loves me unconditionally and puts up with all my baggage!
16. Mike can be really silly and light-hearted or really serious depending on what the situation calls for.
17. He continually reminds me that God will provide when I may be stressing about something!
I think this list could go on forever. I am so thankful for my husband who has chosen to live his life to the glory of God. I admire and respect who he is and waiting anxiously to see what this journey of life holds for us in the months and years to come.
Happy Anniversary and Birthday Mike! I love you!
Friday, July 28, 2006
Thursday, May 25, 2006
Sunday Tables
About a month and a half ago my dad called and asked me if I would write some thoughts about the Lord's Supper. If you know my dad then you know that he likes to push boundaries. I asked what he wanted it for and he told me that he had started thinking during worship what one of his "sister" in the faith would say given the opportunity. After procrastinating several weeks, this is what I sat down and composed:
Sunday Tables
Fried Chicken, laughter, Roast, amazement, potatoes, joy, vegetables, togetherness, homemade rolls, relationships. These words evoke special memories of gathering around a common table after church on Sundays with family. In my own family it was my grandparents table. The table itself may not be anything special, but the memories that have occurred around it make it priceless. The nicks and scars in the wood give the table character. Tables have given us moments of triumph and seasons of sorrow and allowed for a common experience.
As a child we gathered at my grandparents table often on Sundays for lunch and time with family. It was a time that we caught up with one another and shared with one another. We excitedly told stories and recalled memories. Stories brought laughter and tears. We shared both a meal and our lives together.
I imagine the disciples had a lot of memories about the tables where they had dined throughout the years. I wonder when they realized that their most special memories would be of the meals they shared together. I can hear them reminiscing with one another, “Remember that time when we were on the hillside and Jesus turned that boy’s lunch into a feast for everyone. And what about the Pharisees unbelief when they found out where Jesus was having dinner ... they were outraged! And then there was that night in the upper room when we enjoyed dinner and fellowship with Jesus and he gave us parting words. What incredible experiences!Jesus demonstrated many times that the table he communed at had no regard for social status, economic prosperity, race or level of education. At His table there is neither Jew nor Greek, male nor female, slave nor free, for we are all one in Christ. He has prepared the table before us this morning full of mercy and grace.
Without even realizing it, the gospel was being shown to me at my grandparents table. We communed together, young and old, without any regard for who brought what food. Often others we were welcomed at the table with us. We worshipped the Risen savior as we broke bread together. We celebrated renewed life and lamented our sorrows. We shared as the body of Christ. These memories give me a glimpse of the meal that Jesus had with the disciples.
Jesus demonstrated that community is important and that it is difficult to journey these roads alone. Together as a family we gather around this table just as you will shortly gather around the lunch table. Some of us will be in a celebratory mood and some will be lamenting. Either way, at this table there is room for everyone. Welcome to the table of the Lord.
A few weeks later I was home for my sister's graduation and had the opportunity to go back to my home church with my parents. My dad had asked if he could give the table talk that Sunday. Mom and I were very nervous about how he would handle it, but I couldn't have been more proud. He got up and shared that he had been wondering what one of his sisters in the faith would share given the opportunity. He commented that he didn't wonder very long before he went and asked and he wanted to share what she wrote. He proceeded to read it.
I really hadn't expected to feel anything knowing he was reading my thoughts, but I was surprised. In those moments I felt honored that I could participate in worship that morning and give a word that was diffferent than we normally hear. I felt validated in my abilities to think and write in a way that could edify the church body. Suddenly, it was as if my gifts were being used in the corporate setting. It was a new experience and one that made me feel things that I can't quite put words too.
I grew from that experience and am so thankful for my dad and his wonderings. He gave me the gift of participating and experiencing alongside him.
Sunday Tables
Fried Chicken, laughter, Roast, amazement, potatoes, joy, vegetables, togetherness, homemade rolls, relationships. These words evoke special memories of gathering around a common table after church on Sundays with family. In my own family it was my grandparents table. The table itself may not be anything special, but the memories that have occurred around it make it priceless. The nicks and scars in the wood give the table character. Tables have given us moments of triumph and seasons of sorrow and allowed for a common experience.
As a child we gathered at my grandparents table often on Sundays for lunch and time with family. It was a time that we caught up with one another and shared with one another. We excitedly told stories and recalled memories. Stories brought laughter and tears. We shared both a meal and our lives together.
I imagine the disciples had a lot of memories about the tables where they had dined throughout the years. I wonder when they realized that their most special memories would be of the meals they shared together. I can hear them reminiscing with one another, “Remember that time when we were on the hillside and Jesus turned that boy’s lunch into a feast for everyone. And what about the Pharisees unbelief when they found out where Jesus was having dinner ... they were outraged! And then there was that night in the upper room when we enjoyed dinner and fellowship with Jesus and he gave us parting words. What incredible experiences!Jesus demonstrated many times that the table he communed at had no regard for social status, economic prosperity, race or level of education. At His table there is neither Jew nor Greek, male nor female, slave nor free, for we are all one in Christ. He has prepared the table before us this morning full of mercy and grace.
Without even realizing it, the gospel was being shown to me at my grandparents table. We communed together, young and old, without any regard for who brought what food. Often others we were welcomed at the table with us. We worshipped the Risen savior as we broke bread together. We celebrated renewed life and lamented our sorrows. We shared as the body of Christ. These memories give me a glimpse of the meal that Jesus had with the disciples.
Jesus demonstrated that community is important and that it is difficult to journey these roads alone. Together as a family we gather around this table just as you will shortly gather around the lunch table. Some of us will be in a celebratory mood and some will be lamenting. Either way, at this table there is room for everyone. Welcome to the table of the Lord.
A few weeks later I was home for my sister's graduation and had the opportunity to go back to my home church with my parents. My dad had asked if he could give the table talk that Sunday. Mom and I were very nervous about how he would handle it, but I couldn't have been more proud. He got up and shared that he had been wondering what one of his sisters in the faith would share given the opportunity. He commented that he didn't wonder very long before he went and asked and he wanted to share what she wrote. He proceeded to read it.
I really hadn't expected to feel anything knowing he was reading my thoughts, but I was surprised. In those moments I felt honored that I could participate in worship that morning and give a word that was diffferent than we normally hear. I felt validated in my abilities to think and write in a way that could edify the church body. Suddenly, it was as if my gifts were being used in the corporate setting. It was a new experience and one that made me feel things that I can't quite put words too.
I grew from that experience and am so thankful for my dad and his wonderings. He gave me the gift of participating and experiencing alongside him.
Monday, April 17, 2006
He Lives
He is Risen! He Lives! Those words are easy to say but hard to totally grasp. Yet, things in nature are coming to life. It is amazing to me to see how quickly the trees go from barren to producing beautiful deep green leaves. My tulips and plants quickly come to life and bloom. The crisp morning air has a serene quality to it. The gentle breeze that catches the scents around you. The wonder of little girls who hear puppies or see flowers and are amazed by the smallest movement. The miracle of new life on a day when we celebrate resurrected life. All of these things give refreshment to this life that we live. If we truly had the wonder and joy of the children, how would we be transformed?
May your life be full of wonder and joy!
May your life be full of wonder and joy!
Thursday, March 30, 2006
Nothing
Everyday I think about blogging but when it comes down to it I just don't feel I have anything very bloggable to say right now. Hopefully, that will end soon but I don't know. Until then...
Thursday, March 02, 2006
Seasons
As Spring approaches I can't help but feel excited when I am outside. I was talking with someone yesterday about how neat it is to think about the design of the seasons. Spring and Fall are my favorites by far, but all the seasons represent something in our life. Winter seems to represent those seasons in our lives that are barren and cold. We may feel we don't have much energy and just want to hibernate. Along comes Spring and we begin to feel renewed and refreshed. We find energy to tackle life again. We are ready to dance, rejoice, and recognize the blessings in our lives. As the heat gets more intense we are refined by Summer. We find joy but also get worn out at times. Fall allows us to cool down as we enjoy the results of those refining times in our lives. Sometimes in our lives, our seasons may not always follow the pattern that weather seasons do, but I imagine that we all identify with seasons of our lives that parallel to seasons of weather.
I feel that I am on the edge right now between seasons. I am ready for Spring to take over my life and rejoice in what the Lord has done for me. Where are you right now?
I feel that I am on the edge right now between seasons. I am ready for Spring to take over my life and rejoice in what the Lord has done for me. Where are you right now?
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
Catch Up
Ever feel like there is tons of stuff going on and then not very much at the same time? That's my life lately. A quick recap....
Winterfest - It was a fun experience, however it is crazy. Definitely not my idea of a relaxing weekend, but we got to know alot of the kids better. On our way home, it started sleeting. We drove the last 3 hours in heavy snow. NOT FUN when you are responsible for 30 teenagers that aren't your own. However, as a result of that snow I had Monday off work and Mike stayed a few days longer.
Scrapbooking - It can be such a long and tedious process. I have a book that I have to have done in 2 months. I am going to have to kick it into high gear. I spent most of Friday night having a low key night at home working on that. I only got one page done!
Saturday - I was sooo looking forward to just having a leisure morning. Topaz was up at least every 30 minutes sick during the night Friday. Ugh. Needless to say I ended up waking up many times during the night and very early Saturday morning. I also ended up with 5 loads of laundry from it. However, saturday night I escaped and went to a cooking party. It was a lot of fun. We made salsa, fajitas, quesadillas, and fruit pizza. I met a couple of people I didn't know that are about my age.
Sunday - These are always crazy days. Since Mike works for the church, I feel I do to at times. I haven't had a relaxing Sunday in a long time. The problem is I still work Monday thru Friday too. After church I had a meeting, had a break, and then was back at church dealing with stuff. However, I got to enjoy dinner with lots of fun people and got to know a couple that has been visiting the last few weeks.
It is getting warm here and staying light longer. I love this time of year. It is so renewing and refreshing.
Winterfest - It was a fun experience, however it is crazy. Definitely not my idea of a relaxing weekend, but we got to know alot of the kids better. On our way home, it started sleeting. We drove the last 3 hours in heavy snow. NOT FUN when you are responsible for 30 teenagers that aren't your own. However, as a result of that snow I had Monday off work and Mike stayed a few days longer.
Scrapbooking - It can be such a long and tedious process. I have a book that I have to have done in 2 months. I am going to have to kick it into high gear. I spent most of Friday night having a low key night at home working on that. I only got one page done!
Saturday - I was sooo looking forward to just having a leisure morning. Topaz was up at least every 30 minutes sick during the night Friday. Ugh. Needless to say I ended up waking up many times during the night and very early Saturday morning. I also ended up with 5 loads of laundry from it. However, saturday night I escaped and went to a cooking party. It was a lot of fun. We made salsa, fajitas, quesadillas, and fruit pizza. I met a couple of people I didn't know that are about my age.
Sunday - These are always crazy days. Since Mike works for the church, I feel I do to at times. I haven't had a relaxing Sunday in a long time. The problem is I still work Monday thru Friday too. After church I had a meeting, had a break, and then was back at church dealing with stuff. However, I got to enjoy dinner with lots of fun people and got to know a couple that has been visiting the last few weeks.
It is getting warm here and staying light longer. I love this time of year. It is so renewing and refreshing.
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Something Fun
Just came across this and was curious what it would say. Guess it pegs me well since this is what I do. However, some days this is not what I want to do. I get really tired of having to end my relationships with people when they walk out the door. My real dream is to work beside my husband in family ministry. This way I could walk beside people as they deal with turmoil and be a friend but use my skills to enrich and teach about healthy families within a spiritual framework....Maybe someday!
| Your Career Type: Social |
 You would make an excellent: Counselor - Dental Hygienist - LibrarianNurse - Parole Officer - Personal TrainerPhysical Therapist - Social Worker - Teacher The worst career options for your are realistic careers, like truck driver or farmer. |
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
Weekend Recap
-Friday night I enjoyed a progressive dinner that was designed to allow our church an opportunity to bring friends and have fun together. It was hectic in the days leading up to it, but went off without a hitch Friday night, snow and all.
- I had a sleepover for two girls (18 months and 7 years old). The little one woke up puking about 6:30am Saturday. Talk about an unexpected experience. We both changed clothes three times before we dozed again for a few hours.
- Experienced a local flea market with a friend....not sure it will be a frequent shopping stop. Later enjoyed a stroll around the mall. Children's Place was having a HUGE sale. Both of my friends found great deals. I love buying for kids even though I don't have any, but resisted the temptation this time.
-Hosted my small group for lunch Sunday. Enjoyed a nap while watching the Olympics.
-Watched Grey's. This is my hands down favorite show right now. I was so shocked at many different points. I was cracking up at Dr. Bailey's new term.
-Low key, but fun. The next few weekends will be really busy and I will be ready for a low-key Saturday.
- I had a sleepover for two girls (18 months and 7 years old). The little one woke up puking about 6:30am Saturday. Talk about an unexpected experience. We both changed clothes three times before we dozed again for a few hours.
- Experienced a local flea market with a friend....not sure it will be a frequent shopping stop. Later enjoyed a stroll around the mall. Children's Place was having a HUGE sale. Both of my friends found great deals. I love buying for kids even though I don't have any, but resisted the temptation this time.
-Hosted my small group for lunch Sunday. Enjoyed a nap while watching the Olympics.
-Watched Grey's. This is my hands down favorite show right now. I was so shocked at many different points. I was cracking up at Dr. Bailey's new term.
-Low key, but fun. The next few weekends will be really busy and I will be ready for a low-key Saturday.
Tuesday, February 07, 2006
Tag..........
Maybe this will be more interesting....
Four Jobs I've Had:
1. Waitress at Cowboy's BBQ - it was my very first job when I was 15 1/2.
2. Youth Intern - Atlanta, GA; Pensacola, FL; The Woodlands, TX
3. Baby Gap - This was a great job. I got a discount at Gap, Old Navy, and Banana Republic. This was a definite perk. I am constantly thinking about doing it again in the evenings. Mike keeps telling me NO.
4. Therapist at the Christian Counseling Center - My first real job!
Four Movies I've NEVER Seen: (I am tweaking this one because I rarely watch movies so this will be much more interesting)
1. Lord of the Rings Trilogy
2. Star Wars
3. Harry Potter
4. Most of the Classics
Four Books (Authors) I could read over and over:
1. Francine Rivers
2. Karen Kinsbury
3. Penelope Stokes
4. Lauren Winner
Four Places I Have Lived:
1. Muskogee, OK
2. Nashville, TN
3. Abilene, TX
4. Paducah, KY
Four TV Shows I Watch:
1. Grey's Anatomy
2. ER
3. Oprah
4. Today Show
Four Places I've Been on Vacation:
1. San Francisco
2. Europe
3. Egypt
4. Gatlinburg, TN (honeymoon)
Four Websites I Visit Daily:
1. Blogs
2. US Bank
3. Google
4. More Blogs :)
Four Favorite Foods:
1. Fajitas
2. Brownies and IceCream
3. Pineapple
4. Italian
Four Places I Would Rather Be Right Now:
1. Greece with Mike
2. Shopping with unlimited funds
3. With my family in OK
4. The weekend with Mike
Four Jobs I've Had:
1. Waitress at Cowboy's BBQ - it was my very first job when I was 15 1/2.
2. Youth Intern - Atlanta, GA; Pensacola, FL; The Woodlands, TX
3. Baby Gap - This was a great job. I got a discount at Gap, Old Navy, and Banana Republic. This was a definite perk. I am constantly thinking about doing it again in the evenings. Mike keeps telling me NO.
4. Therapist at the Christian Counseling Center - My first real job!
Four Movies I've NEVER Seen: (I am tweaking this one because I rarely watch movies so this will be much more interesting)
1. Lord of the Rings Trilogy
2. Star Wars
3. Harry Potter
4. Most of the Classics
Four Books (Authors) I could read over and over:
1. Francine Rivers
2. Karen Kinsbury
3. Penelope Stokes
4. Lauren Winner
Four Places I Have Lived:
1. Muskogee, OK
2. Nashville, TN
3. Abilene, TX
4. Paducah, KY
Four TV Shows I Watch:
1. Grey's Anatomy
2. ER
3. Oprah
4. Today Show
Four Places I've Been on Vacation:
1. San Francisco
2. Europe
3. Egypt
4. Gatlinburg, TN (honeymoon)
Four Websites I Visit Daily:
1. Blogs
2. US Bank
3. Google
4. More Blogs :)
Four Favorite Foods:
1. Fajitas
2. Brownies and IceCream
3. Pineapple
4. Italian
Four Places I Would Rather Be Right Now:
1. Greece with Mike
2. Shopping with unlimited funds
3. With my family in OK
4. The weekend with Mike
Just the routine...
Absolutely nothing seems to be going on right now....It is pretty much the same routine everday. So that doesn't leave me much to blog about. But I will try to come up with something...
-My friend Megan came to hang out with me Friday and Saturday. We went to the gym Saturday morning and then walked around the mall before she headed home.
-Sunday was church and small group. Since my small group met at lunch I joined another small group that night.
-Topaz is definitely a spaz and is experiencing doggie adolescenthood. He will be experiencing a small surgery in the near future. :)
-He is REALLY enjoying the attention but hates the extra time he has to be in the kennel. He is ready for things to be back to normal.
-I actually cooked dinner last night. I haven't cooked a real meal in at least a month. (I still eat, but have a few families that have me over almost EVERY night)
- I tried to start gathering our tax stuff up to take to the accountant but it was overwhelming so I abandoned that project for another day.
Maybe I will have something more exciting to report later....but for now, it's all I've got.
-My friend Megan came to hang out with me Friday and Saturday. We went to the gym Saturday morning and then walked around the mall before she headed home.
-Sunday was church and small group. Since my small group met at lunch I joined another small group that night.
-Topaz is definitely a spaz and is experiencing doggie adolescenthood. He will be experiencing a small surgery in the near future. :)
-He is REALLY enjoying the attention but hates the extra time he has to be in the kennel. He is ready for things to be back to normal.
-I actually cooked dinner last night. I haven't cooked a real meal in at least a month. (I still eat, but have a few families that have me over almost EVERY night)
- I tried to start gathering our tax stuff up to take to the accountant but it was overwhelming so I abandoned that project for another day.
Maybe I will have something more exciting to report later....but for now, it's all I've got.
Monday, January 23, 2006
3 More Days
Only three more days until I get to see my husband. Can you tell that I am looking forward to it? But the exciting thing is that not only do I get to spend the time with him, I also get to see MANY friends that I miss so much. I am really looking forward to catching up with our small group, some of my best friends, and whoever else I happen to run into. It will be great!
This past weekend was pretty quiet. I hung out with a family from church Friday night. They are so kind to invite me to dinner EVERY night. I really feel at home with them. Saturday, I laid around all morning and then went to the gym for a few hours. I spent the afternoon and evening cleaning. Sunday morning was spent at church and then at the gym and cleaning some more. I hosted our small group Sunday night. We are switching groups now, so I look forward to that as well.
I am looking forward to getting a few projects completed in the next few weeks. There seems to always be something waiting. I want to learn more about my camera and get a good jumpstart on my sister's scrapbook. Mike and I were dreaming about learning lots and being able to open a business one day. I would really love to do that as a side job. Now I just have to figure out how do everything with it.
Back to work this morning and definitely looking forward to the short week. Thursday I will be headed to A-town. Hurray!
This past weekend was pretty quiet. I hung out with a family from church Friday night. They are so kind to invite me to dinner EVERY night. I really feel at home with them. Saturday, I laid around all morning and then went to the gym for a few hours. I spent the afternoon and evening cleaning. Sunday morning was spent at church and then at the gym and cleaning some more. I hosted our small group Sunday night. We are switching groups now, so I look forward to that as well.
I am looking forward to getting a few projects completed in the next few weeks. There seems to always be something waiting. I want to learn more about my camera and get a good jumpstart on my sister's scrapbook. Mike and I were dreaming about learning lots and being able to open a business one day. I would really love to do that as a side job. Now I just have to figure out how do everything with it.
Back to work this morning and definitely looking forward to the short week. Thursday I will be headed to A-town. Hurray!
Friday, January 20, 2006
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Where do I start....
Sometimes, I avoid blogging because I can't narrow down what I want to talk about. Kinda funny when I think about it. If I would just start writing I wouldn't have to narrow it down.
It's amazing how life continues to move and change. Since the last time I blogged, so much as happened. We enjoyed Christmas with both of our families, two severe colds which knocked us out for several days, a fun New Year's Eve party, Texas winning the National Championship (Mike was VERY excited about this), cooking dinner and celebrating one of my best friend's birthdays, painting another plate at "The Clay Chamelon", sending Mike to Abilene, and finding my routine again.
Topaz and I have had a great week. We have walked most evenings and enjoy the time to catch up with a friend or to just listen to my IPOD. I finished reading "Three Weeks with My Brother" by Nicholas Sparks. It was an excellent story about his life growing up interweaved with the story of traveling around the world in 3 weeks with his brother. I highly recommend it.
Sleeping through the night has been the most difficult part of the adjustment. Within the past year I have noticed that anytime I expereince a change in my life I have difficulty sleeping for a few days and then I tend to settle in. Last night was the first night that I didn't wake up until 5am (my alarm goes off at 5:30). Hopefully, this will resolve itself soon. One positive about this is that I get to go to bed when I want. It's not as if Mike won't let me but it seems that we always are doing something when he is here and it is at least 10pm before we make it to bed. I really like to be headed to bed about 9pm and then read for a few minutes before turning the light out. It has been 3 years since I have been able to do this. Shortly before Mike and I started dating. It also helps me to be able to get up by 5:30 to go run or work out. We'll see how this schedule holds out for the next few months.
It's amazing how life continues to move and change. Since the last time I blogged, so much as happened. We enjoyed Christmas with both of our families, two severe colds which knocked us out for several days, a fun New Year's Eve party, Texas winning the National Championship (Mike was VERY excited about this), cooking dinner and celebrating one of my best friend's birthdays, painting another plate at "The Clay Chamelon", sending Mike to Abilene, and finding my routine again.
Topaz and I have had a great week. We have walked most evenings and enjoy the time to catch up with a friend or to just listen to my IPOD. I finished reading "Three Weeks with My Brother" by Nicholas Sparks. It was an excellent story about his life growing up interweaved with the story of traveling around the world in 3 weeks with his brother. I highly recommend it.
Sleeping through the night has been the most difficult part of the adjustment. Within the past year I have noticed that anytime I expereince a change in my life I have difficulty sleeping for a few days and then I tend to settle in. Last night was the first night that I didn't wake up until 5am (my alarm goes off at 5:30). Hopefully, this will resolve itself soon. One positive about this is that I get to go to bed when I want. It's not as if Mike won't let me but it seems that we always are doing something when he is here and it is at least 10pm before we make it to bed. I really like to be headed to bed about 9pm and then read for a few minutes before turning the light out. It has been 3 years since I have been able to do this. Shortly before Mike and I started dating. It also helps me to be able to get up by 5:30 to go run or work out. We'll see how this schedule holds out for the next few months.
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
3 Short Work Weeks
The next three weeks at work are 4 day weeks. That is so exciting to me. And this week is half over already. Only 2 more work days. My parents will be here and I don't have to work. I always hate it when we have company and I have to work the whole time they are in town.
This past weekend was very productive and fun. Friday night we had dinner with some friends and played cards. Saturday morning we were able to participate in creating food baskets with our church and distributing them. It was a great reminder of what we are about. At several of the houses I just wished I could sit down and let those people tell me their stories of their lives. The last house was pretty frightening. The man at the house asked us for a ride somewhere through his daughter and when Mike went to talk to him he was smoking pot. My imagination started going crazy and I could just see us ending up in the worst of situations. We weren't able to take him, but it was difficult to make that decision. The middle part of the day was spent cleaning and organizing the house. We even fixed the smelly, broken vacuum ourselves! I did a little bit of shopping for myself and found a few new pairs of jeans. While I was in line to check out at Kohl's I watched a lady get angry because she was being asked to stand in the universal line that fed to the next available cashier. She did not understand why she couldn't just walk up to the one line that didn't have many people in it. When she was asked to get in line she threw her clothes in the ladies face and walked out. We were all shocked.
Saturday night we had my office Christmas party and then we went to this pottery place and painted. I can't wait to pick it up. Sunday morning we discussed our turning points on our spiritual journey in class. Sunday afternoon was spent painting nightstands, cleaning the garage, giving Topaz a bath, and cooking for the Christmas party at church. Sunday night we had the Christmas program which was great and yummy food afterwards.
Needless to say, I was tired yesterday!
This past weekend was very productive and fun. Friday night we had dinner with some friends and played cards. Saturday morning we were able to participate in creating food baskets with our church and distributing them. It was a great reminder of what we are about. At several of the houses I just wished I could sit down and let those people tell me their stories of their lives. The last house was pretty frightening. The man at the house asked us for a ride somewhere through his daughter and when Mike went to talk to him he was smoking pot. My imagination started going crazy and I could just see us ending up in the worst of situations. We weren't able to take him, but it was difficult to make that decision. The middle part of the day was spent cleaning and organizing the house. We even fixed the smelly, broken vacuum ourselves! I did a little bit of shopping for myself and found a few new pairs of jeans. While I was in line to check out at Kohl's I watched a lady get angry because she was being asked to stand in the universal line that fed to the next available cashier. She did not understand why she couldn't just walk up to the one line that didn't have many people in it. When she was asked to get in line she threw her clothes in the ladies face and walked out. We were all shocked.
Saturday night we had my office Christmas party and then we went to this pottery place and painted. I can't wait to pick it up. Sunday morning we discussed our turning points on our spiritual journey in class. Sunday afternoon was spent painting nightstands, cleaning the garage, giving Topaz a bath, and cooking for the Christmas party at church. Sunday night we had the Christmas program which was great and yummy food afterwards.
Needless to say, I was tired yesterday!
Friday, December 16, 2005
Changes
I think all of the changes in my life over the recent months are beginning to catch up with me. I find myself feeling very tired these days and trying to make it to bedtime each night. So many things have been going on, mostly good things, but I still feel worn out. Right now I long for a day off work that doesn't involve a holiday, a day in which I could just lay around and rest. Christmas is quickly approaching. I am always surprised at how quickly it sneaks up on me. I still have a few gifts to buy and need to wrap everything! My parents will be in town next weekend and I am really looking forward to having them here. The next three weeks are four day weeks so hopefully that will give me some rest. I look forward to making new memories in our home.
Other than exhaustion, it doesn't seem as though there is much going on. I have been baking for different holiday gatherings and we have the last of our Christmas parties this weekend. It will definitely be a full weekend and will probably be ready for Monday just to not go, go, go. Hope you all can enjoy life right now without feeling stressed and worn out.
Blessings.
Other than exhaustion, it doesn't seem as though there is much going on. I have been baking for different holiday gatherings and we have the last of our Christmas parties this weekend. It will definitely be a full weekend and will probably be ready for Monday just to not go, go, go. Hope you all can enjoy life right now without feeling stressed and worn out.
Blessings.
Thursday, December 08, 2005
Holidays...Joy and Suffering
Christmas is supposed to be such a happy and jolly time of the year. But every year, I can't help but feel immense sadness for families who don't have the money to celebrate in the same way as other people. Everytime I walk through the mall and see that angels on the angel tree or hear about a family who has recently lost everything my heart aches for the parents and the kids.
A few Sunday's ago we had the opportunity to adopt some children to buy gifts for through our church. Every year they put together food baskets and coordinate efforts with a local agency to provide presents to children whose families can't do these things for them. One of the things we have tried to be intentional about when picking these children out is that we choose a type of child that would not be typically chosen. Usually that means the older adolescents to teenagers. This is important to me because I feel strongly that it will effect a 17 much more if they don't get a gift then it will a 2 year old. The older kids are embarrassed when they go to school and know what they are missing out on. As we picked them out, the lady coordinating it told me that if they had left over names they would be going shopping for them. I quickly let her know that I would love to help if they needed it.
Mike and I agreed that we would forego gifts for each other and put our money towards these kids. We set a budget and have found them quite a few things. The lady in charge invited me to help finish the shopping for the kids that were leftover. When I met them Monday night I found out that we are only able to spend $20-$25 on each kid. This broke my heart. Most of these kids were older and their clothes naturally cost more than a 5 year old. So they will get very few items. I could hardly stand it. The other downside to this is many of their siblings have been "adopted" by someone in the church and will get a sackful of presents and they will only have one or two. It is times like this that my heart sinks. I just hate that kids have to experience pain during what is supposed to be a joyful holiday. I try to take joy in knowing that at least many of these kids will receive something and they might understand that their are people that truly care about them.
I love opportunities like this because it forces me to recognize how blessed I am. Praise God from whom all blessings flow. May he be present in the lives of those who are broken hearted this holiday season.
A few Sunday's ago we had the opportunity to adopt some children to buy gifts for through our church. Every year they put together food baskets and coordinate efforts with a local agency to provide presents to children whose families can't do these things for them. One of the things we have tried to be intentional about when picking these children out is that we choose a type of child that would not be typically chosen. Usually that means the older adolescents to teenagers. This is important to me because I feel strongly that it will effect a 17 much more if they don't get a gift then it will a 2 year old. The older kids are embarrassed when they go to school and know what they are missing out on. As we picked them out, the lady coordinating it told me that if they had left over names they would be going shopping for them. I quickly let her know that I would love to help if they needed it.
Mike and I agreed that we would forego gifts for each other and put our money towards these kids. We set a budget and have found them quite a few things. The lady in charge invited me to help finish the shopping for the kids that were leftover. When I met them Monday night I found out that we are only able to spend $20-$25 on each kid. This broke my heart. Most of these kids were older and their clothes naturally cost more than a 5 year old. So they will get very few items. I could hardly stand it. The other downside to this is many of their siblings have been "adopted" by someone in the church and will get a sackful of presents and they will only have one or two. It is times like this that my heart sinks. I just hate that kids have to experience pain during what is supposed to be a joyful holiday. I try to take joy in knowing that at least many of these kids will receive something and they might understand that their are people that truly care about them.
I love opportunities like this because it forces me to recognize how blessed I am. Praise God from whom all blessings flow. May he be present in the lives of those who are broken hearted this holiday season.
Thursday, December 01, 2005
Commenting Complex
For some odd reason, I don't like to comment on blogs. I love reading them (I read alot) and many times I have comments that I want to make but yet I don't. Certain bloggers have asked why I never comment. Last night I had to admit that I am a blog lurker to a friend at church :). I can't answer this question completely, except to say that I freeze when I think about leaving a comment. I think part of it is not wanting to sound stupid and another part, well who knows. In the last few weeks it is getting a little better....so I will keep working on it. I think I have the same complex at times with posting. Silly, I know. Just so my few readers know, I am working on it.
-ssd
-ssd
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
Highs and Lows
During September and October I co-taught a class of 4th and 5th graders. One of our routine questions each week was their highs and lows of the week. After everyone shared we would pray about those highs and lows. I thought I would participate today....
Lows:
-We had awful storms blow through yesterday damaging alot of homes.
-Mike is putting in alot of time with school right now.
-Mike's stay in Abilene is quickly approaching.
-Topaz is still working on being completely obedient.
Highs:
-I have a job that is helping me toward my license.
-We have been welcomed with open arms since we moved to Paducah.
-I have a husband that loves me and makes time for me despite his school work.
-Thanksgiving is next week and I get to go see my family.
-Mike will be done with school for the semester in 2 weeks.
-We have a clean house.
-We were not affected by the storm in any major way.
-I got to go home from work early.
This is just a few things that come to my mind at this moment. Thankfully, it was much easier to think of highs than lows at this point in our journey.
Lows:
-We had awful storms blow through yesterday damaging alot of homes.
-Mike is putting in alot of time with school right now.
-Mike's stay in Abilene is quickly approaching.
-Topaz is still working on being completely obedient.
Highs:
-I have a job that is helping me toward my license.
-We have been welcomed with open arms since we moved to Paducah.
-I have a husband that loves me and makes time for me despite his school work.
-Thanksgiving is next week and I get to go see my family.
-Mike will be done with school for the semester in 2 weeks.
-We have a clean house.
-We were not affected by the storm in any major way.
-I got to go home from work early.
This is just a few things that come to my mind at this moment. Thankfully, it was much easier to think of highs than lows at this point in our journey.
Friday, November 11, 2005
Memories
Friday is finally here! As long as I can remember I have always looked forward to Fridays. Who doesn't? I am especially looking forward to this weekend. Tomorrow Mike and I are going to make the short trip to Nashville for the day. I am going to a shower for a friend/sister of mine and he is going to spend the afternoon in the library. I think I am looking forward to the trip more than he is.
However, this has brought alot of memories back to me. I am amazed as I think about the number of people in my life that have been significant and still hold such special places in my heart. Today, I want to write in particular about the Osburns. After my freshman year in college, I decided to pursue a youth internship. That summer I ended up in Atlanta, GA at the Campus Church of Christ. It was an incredible summer. I had the joy of working with a childhood friend and two new friends and vetern youth ministers, Ken and Donna Ellis. Before I go any farther, I have to say that they are great ministers and have really impacted alot of lives. I learned so much that summer and could share many stories. While all of these relationships were special, the family I lived gave me and showed me something I really needed that summer.
The Osburns loved spending time together as well as to take others in their home. The summer I was with them their family (James, Jayne, Julia, and Jayme) was there as well as Freddy, their foster son, and the two female interns. This family laughed together, watched movies together, talked about God together. James and Jayne were not afraid to laugh and have a good time with their kids. They were involved in their lives, but they also disciplined them as well. They became confidants for me during a difficult time and continued to be there for me during the next two years. Their house was the frequent gathering place for the teenagers and they didn't mind. They have always considered me their third daughter and I easily consider them my second family. Those are my sisters and I care deeply for them. Several years later, it was interesting that Julia began her freshman year at Lipscomb as I finished my senior year. I have made special trips just to spend the weekend. I know they have open arms.
I am so happy for Julia as she prepares for marriage, but it is so difficult not to think of her as still being a junior in high school. My dream has always been to get to host an intern and show them the love that I received from this family. My heart is so excited to spend the evening with Jayne, Jayme, Julia, and David. I long for Mike to know them better so he can understand the connection we share.
Our lives change, but my memories of that summer will forever be engrained on my heart.
However, this has brought alot of memories back to me. I am amazed as I think about the number of people in my life that have been significant and still hold such special places in my heart. Today, I want to write in particular about the Osburns. After my freshman year in college, I decided to pursue a youth internship. That summer I ended up in Atlanta, GA at the Campus Church of Christ. It was an incredible summer. I had the joy of working with a childhood friend and two new friends and vetern youth ministers, Ken and Donna Ellis. Before I go any farther, I have to say that they are great ministers and have really impacted alot of lives. I learned so much that summer and could share many stories. While all of these relationships were special, the family I lived gave me and showed me something I really needed that summer.
The Osburns loved spending time together as well as to take others in their home. The summer I was with them their family (James, Jayne, Julia, and Jayme) was there as well as Freddy, their foster son, and the two female interns. This family laughed together, watched movies together, talked about God together. James and Jayne were not afraid to laugh and have a good time with their kids. They were involved in their lives, but they also disciplined them as well. They became confidants for me during a difficult time and continued to be there for me during the next two years. Their house was the frequent gathering place for the teenagers and they didn't mind. They have always considered me their third daughter and I easily consider them my second family. Those are my sisters and I care deeply for them. Several years later, it was interesting that Julia began her freshman year at Lipscomb as I finished my senior year. I have made special trips just to spend the weekend. I know they have open arms.
I am so happy for Julia as she prepares for marriage, but it is so difficult not to think of her as still being a junior in high school. My dream has always been to get to host an intern and show them the love that I received from this family. My heart is so excited to spend the evening with Jayne, Jayme, Julia, and David. I long for Mike to know them better so he can understand the connection we share.
Our lives change, but my memories of that summer will forever be engrained on my heart.
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