Well I submitted my THIRD resignation letter of the year today. After three long months of commuting 90 miles one way and staying with friends, Coach and I have decided that it is not in the best interest of me or us. While the opportunity seemed good, we feel that God has other (better) plans.
While I wish I could say that I was going to stay at home and create everything that I've pinned on Pinterest, our bills require me to work. I am going back to a job that I never should have given up -- a job that never felt like "work". I'm sure most people will think I'm crazy for giving up two really "great jobs" this year. Unfortunately, the definition of a good job seems to be one that provides benefits. Benefits might seem great, but after working a handful of jobs, I've come to realize that it is far more worth it to work at something you love doing.
It seems that a majority of people work at jobs they hate and sacrifice their health, their family and their livelihood... all in pursuit of the American dream. Well, I'm officially ending this pursuit in my life. I've decided that life is too short to be doing anything else than what you love...
Monday, October 3, 2011
Friday, September 16, 2011
The Wheels of your Mind
I've written about the power of positive before... and I've witnessed it time and time again in my life and in the lives of others.
I read this devotion today and thought it was a great illustration and very well said. So I'm sharing with theworld two people who read my blog.
From the devotional "Encouragement for Today" - http://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/encouragement/
"For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he." Proverbs 23:7a (KJV)
The day started off just fine, but ended with confusion and tears. As a timid middle-schooler, I climbed the steps of my school bus eager to get home after a long afternoon.
Sitting quietly in my seat, all of a sudden I got this sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. Although my surroundings appeared to be the same, something was not right.
The bus was the normal sunshine yellow. The seats were standard black vinyl, displaying rips and tears from years of students. The floor was littered with the usual misplaced pencils, erasers and wadded-up papers. Yet, I felt out of place.
That's when I realized I did not know any of the kids sitting around me. And I had never seen the bus driver before. Frantically, I searched for anything familiar. My cheeks grew hot and my heart raced with panic as I realized I was on the wrong bus.
Although I WAS headed somewhere, it was NOT where I wanted to go.
I'd been distracted by conversations with friends, thoughts of sleepovers, and how much homework I had. My thoughts were not focused on where I was going. The actions that followed caused me to end up somewhere I did not want to be.
Thinking back on that day, I've considered how our thoughts determine a lot about the direction of our lives. Like my school bus, our thoughts will always take us somewhere, but it may not be somewhere we want to end up.
If we spend time thinking about how our boss does not appreciate us, our thoughts will take us straight to a bad attitude at work and possibly poor performance.
If we focus on how much we do for others and how little we feel appreciated, our thoughts will take us to a place of resentment, with lack of patience and love.
If we spend an entire day fuming over something our husband or kids did, and mentally practice the harsh words we plan to say to them, those thoughts will lead us into a place of arguments, hurt feelings and damaged relationships.
If we dwell on why God has allowed certain problems in our lives, we will transport ourselves into a state of insecurity and unhappiness as we stop trusting God.
If we focus our thoughts on money, career, success and pleasure, we will find ourselves in the land of the lost—feeling frustrated and discontent.
Our thoughts are powerful and require great self control. If we allow them to run rampant, focusing on things that lead us away from God, then we will wind up at a destination we would never deliberately choose.
In today's key verse, God shows us why we should choose carefully what we think about, because our thoughts determine who we are and how we live.
My childhood memory reminds me to consistently ask God to help me keep my mind on Him and on the thoughts He has for me. That way I can live according to His plans and with His perspective, seeking to be acutely aware of where my thoughts may lead me.
Our thoughts really do have wheels. Where are your thoughts taking you today?
I read this devotion today and thought it was a great illustration and very well said. So I'm sharing with the
From the devotional "Encouragement for Today" - http://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/encouragement/
"For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he." Proverbs 23:7a (KJV)
The day started off just fine, but ended with confusion and tears. As a timid middle-schooler, I climbed the steps of my school bus eager to get home after a long afternoon.
Sitting quietly in my seat, all of a sudden I got this sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. Although my surroundings appeared to be the same, something was not right.
The bus was the normal sunshine yellow. The seats were standard black vinyl, displaying rips and tears from years of students. The floor was littered with the usual misplaced pencils, erasers and wadded-up papers. Yet, I felt out of place.
That's when I realized I did not know any of the kids sitting around me. And I had never seen the bus driver before. Frantically, I searched for anything familiar. My cheeks grew hot and my heart raced with panic as I realized I was on the wrong bus.
Although I WAS headed somewhere, it was NOT where I wanted to go.
I'd been distracted by conversations with friends, thoughts of sleepovers, and how much homework I had. My thoughts were not focused on where I was going. The actions that followed caused me to end up somewhere I did not want to be.
Thinking back on that day, I've considered how our thoughts determine a lot about the direction of our lives. Like my school bus, our thoughts will always take us somewhere, but it may not be somewhere we want to end up.
If we spend time thinking about how our boss does not appreciate us, our thoughts will take us straight to a bad attitude at work and possibly poor performance.
If we focus on how much we do for others and how little we feel appreciated, our thoughts will take us to a place of resentment, with lack of patience and love.
If we spend an entire day fuming over something our husband or kids did, and mentally practice the harsh words we plan to say to them, those thoughts will lead us into a place of arguments, hurt feelings and damaged relationships.
If we dwell on why God has allowed certain problems in our lives, we will transport ourselves into a state of insecurity and unhappiness as we stop trusting God.
If we focus our thoughts on money, career, success and pleasure, we will find ourselves in the land of the lost—feeling frustrated and discontent.
Our thoughts are powerful and require great self control. If we allow them to run rampant, focusing on things that lead us away from God, then we will wind up at a destination we would never deliberately choose.
In today's key verse, God shows us why we should choose carefully what we think about, because our thoughts determine who we are and how we live.
My childhood memory reminds me to consistently ask God to help me keep my mind on Him and on the thoughts He has for me. That way I can live according to His plans and with His perspective, seeking to be acutely aware of where my thoughts may lead me.
Our thoughts really do have wheels. Where are your thoughts taking you today?
Monday, September 12, 2011
Whoa Baby
Before my birthday even comes around this year, I have already declared myself old.
Three reasons:
1. Yesterday when I realized it was the TEN year anniversary of September 11th, I realized it was 10 years since I was a senior in high school. Where has the time gone?
2. I noticed a varicose vein that is trying to take residence on my leg. ACK.
3. I have been having many random thoughts about becoming a mother.
Yes, those things make me old. But...maybe being old won't be so bad.
And hey, by this definition, I've been old for a LONG time. Nap time has always made me happy!
Three reasons:
1. Yesterday when I realized it was the TEN year anniversary of September 11th, I realized it was 10 years since I was a senior in high school. Where has the time gone?
2. I noticed a varicose vein that is trying to take residence on my leg. ACK.
3. I have been having many random thoughts about becoming a mother.
Yes, those things make me old. But...maybe being old won't be so bad.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Dear Grandma,
I thought of you today when I looked at the calendar and realized it was your birthday. At first, I was sad that I couldn't call you and wish you Happy Birthday, but then I realized that your party with the big man and the angels singing a happy birthday chorus is much better!
It's hard to believe you've been gone 13 years. You wouldn't believe all that has changed!
First off, all the good TV shows you taught me to love have been replaced by trash. That's right, no more Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman, Walker Texas Ranger, Murder She Wrote. But, you will be excited to know that QVC is still thriving. (And Mom secretly loves watching it just like you did! She doesn't have their number in speed dial yet, but I'm sure that day will come!)
Mom is beautiful as she has always been and one day she is going to be a wonderful grandma, just like you. But for now, she stays rather busy with the OTHER Katie. Yes, she was silly enough to give her third child the same name as her brother's third child. (Hey, they are your kids!) Our Katie is a big goofball, just like the rest of your grandchildren. :) She loves to read and her favorite place to go is the library. She would've loved you :)
Khris never grew into loving reading or shopping like you tried to get him to. But, he has learned how to cook. A little. Just don't ask him to cook brownies.... or mashed potatoes. He's still working on it. He is still wild and crazy though!
Remember when you took me to work for "Take your Daughter to Work Day"? Well, I thought working in a big office was so cool that I decided to go to college and get a degree in business so I could work in a big office and eventually own my own office. My first job was with yours truly, the FDA. The Parklawn building wasn't as happy as the building you worked in. And there wasn't a Dunkin Donuts next door where I could order Cranberry Orange muffins every morning. But you know what was the same? You can't tell anyone.... but, I use the same password you used on your computer. SHHHHH! Anyway, I think I've had my share of working in offices and I'm ready to run my own office! Just one problem... I'm not sure what TYPE of office. Maybe you could work your connections with the Big Man and ask Him to send some guidance my way. Remind Him that I'm very indecisive and I need it spelled out rather clearly.
I met an amazing man in college who I married two years ago. I really missed your shopping expertise when we were shopping for wedding dresses! Russ and I had a lot of grandparents who we missed that day, but that beautiful double rainbow right before our reception began let us know that you were all in heaven smiling down on us and blessing our marriage!
Life is crazy, but we are doing our work and when we are finished, we are going to have the biggest family reunion ever! Hey, is that lady from Cinnamon Run who ALWAYS called the cops up there? If so, you better tell her to get ready, because we are going to party hard! Do you think you could start working on a big plate of Salmon Pate? And maybe a big bowl of German Potato Salad? For dessert, how about some Black Walnut cookies? And dig out the Scrabble board, because we are going to play a round, or ten. (Can you believe no one will play with me?! I tell them I learned from the best!)
I wish heaven wasn't so far away....Love you and miss you!
It's hard to believe you've been gone 13 years. You wouldn't believe all that has changed!
First off, all the good TV shows you taught me to love have been replaced by trash. That's right, no more Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman, Walker Texas Ranger, Murder She Wrote. But, you will be excited to know that QVC is still thriving. (And Mom secretly loves watching it just like you did! She doesn't have their number in speed dial yet, but I'm sure that day will come!)
Mom is beautiful as she has always been and one day she is going to be a wonderful grandma, just like you. But for now, she stays rather busy with the OTHER Katie. Yes, she was silly enough to give her third child the same name as her brother's third child. (Hey, they are your kids!) Our Katie is a big goofball, just like the rest of your grandchildren. :) She loves to read and her favorite place to go is the library. She would've loved you :)
Khris never grew into loving reading or shopping like you tried to get him to. But, he has learned how to cook. A little. Just don't ask him to cook brownies.... or mashed potatoes. He's still working on it. He is still wild and crazy though!
Remember when you took me to work for "Take your Daughter to Work Day"? Well, I thought working in a big office was so cool that I decided to go to college and get a degree in business so I could work in a big office and eventually own my own office. My first job was with yours truly, the FDA. The Parklawn building wasn't as happy as the building you worked in. And there wasn't a Dunkin Donuts next door where I could order Cranberry Orange muffins every morning. But you know what was the same? You can't tell anyone.... but, I use the same password you used on your computer. SHHHHH! Anyway, I think I've had my share of working in offices and I'm ready to run my own office! Just one problem... I'm not sure what TYPE of office. Maybe you could work your connections with the Big Man and ask Him to send some guidance my way. Remind Him that I'm very indecisive and I need it spelled out rather clearly.
I met an amazing man in college who I married two years ago. I really missed your shopping expertise when we were shopping for wedding dresses! Russ and I had a lot of grandparents who we missed that day, but that beautiful double rainbow right before our reception began let us know that you were all in heaven smiling down on us and blessing our marriage!
Life is crazy, but we are doing our work and when we are finished, we are going to have the biggest family reunion ever! Hey, is that lady from Cinnamon Run who ALWAYS called the cops up there? If so, you better tell her to get ready, because we are going to party hard! Do you think you could start working on a big plate of Salmon Pate? And maybe a big bowl of German Potato Salad? For dessert, how about some Black Walnut cookies? And dig out the Scrabble board, because we are going to play a round, or ten. (Can you believe no one will play with me?! I tell them I learned from the best!)
I wish heaven wasn't so far away....Love you and miss you!
Thursday, July 21, 2011
The Power of Positive Thinking
"Every thought is a seed. If you plant crabapples, don't expect to harvest Golden Delicious apples"
This week I've learned that there is true power in positive thinking. I started my new job, which is 90 miles from home. Talk about a lot of time to think! I admit, I started out the week with some excitement, but about 40 miles into the drive, it quickly faded. By the end of the day, I had to find some inspiration because I felt myself falling into a pit. I've had to do some re-programming of my grumblings along the week.
Instead of groaning about the awful time that I get up, I am grateful for the opportunity I have to watch the beautiful sunrise each morning on my way to work.
Instead of thinking about all the things that I have to do in such a short time at home, I am thankful that one of my strengths is organization. I plan our menu at the beginning of the week and I fix lunch and set out dinners for my husband to cook. Planning ahead = less stress in my world. And most of all, I am thankful for an amazing husband who takes care of everything at the house before I get home so I don't have to worry about it. A helping husband = a happy wife.
At the new job, I've had some anxiety over the change. I always hate the first week of the job. I feel like the dumbest person in the place while I learn everything. But instead of being overwhelmed, I am so grateful for the small things -- the ability to use Outlook for email instead of the TERRIBLE program I had at the previous job. I can actually access Facebook during lunch breaks. Not that I need to because I now work in a city where I have multiple dining and shopping options available to take advantage of during my hour :) And I work in an office of very friendly people.
And lastly, even though the drive has been grueling, I've had lots of time to spend thinking, praying, praising and catching up with God and family and friends. I can listen to about 7 chapters of an audio book each day. My cell phone has used more minutes in one week than it has in one month! And, after asking, I received many small affirmations from God that I am in fact doing what I am supposed to be doing.
Positive thinking and perseverance... they really do pay off in the long run! The 180 mile a day long run :P
This week I've learned that there is true power in positive thinking. I started my new job, which is 90 miles from home. Talk about a lot of time to think! I admit, I started out the week with some excitement, but about 40 miles into the drive, it quickly faded. By the end of the day, I had to find some inspiration because I felt myself falling into a pit. I've had to do some re-programming of my grumblings along the week.
Instead of groaning about the awful time that I get up, I am grateful for the opportunity I have to watch the beautiful sunrise each morning on my way to work.
Instead of thinking about all the things that I have to do in such a short time at home, I am thankful that one of my strengths is organization. I plan our menu at the beginning of the week and I fix lunch and set out dinners for my husband to cook. Planning ahead = less stress in my world. And most of all, I am thankful for an amazing husband who takes care of everything at the house before I get home so I don't have to worry about it. A helping husband = a happy wife.
At the new job, I've had some anxiety over the change. I always hate the first week of the job. I feel like the dumbest person in the place while I learn everything. But instead of being overwhelmed, I am so grateful for the small things -- the ability to use Outlook for email instead of the TERRIBLE program I had at the previous job. I can actually access Facebook during lunch breaks. Not that I need to because I now work in a city where I have multiple dining and shopping options available to take advantage of during my hour :) And I work in an office of very friendly people.
And lastly, even though the drive has been grueling, I've had lots of time to spend thinking, praying, praising and catching up with God and family and friends. I can listen to about 7 chapters of an audio book each day. My cell phone has used more minutes in one week than it has in one month! And, after asking, I received many small affirmations from God that I am in fact doing what I am supposed to be doing.
Positive thinking and perseverance... they really do pay off in the long run! The 180 mile a day long run :P
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Things I learned while on vacation
I am still around! Just very busy. Coach and I just came back from a vacation to see my side of the family. We had a great time... and even learned some things while we were gone...
The word vacation is not synonymous with "sleeping in"
Grandma will spoil you no matter how old she is... or how old you are.
Air mattresses CAN actually stay inflated.
Gummy bears are made with vegetables. Yup, we really heard that.
Restaurants in the South DO run out of biscuits.
One man can convince five women to walk out of a restaurant. Thank you Coach for convincing us that we wanted sushi instead of Friday's.
God can save you from anything. Even a speeding ticket.
You can still love Chipotle after eating it three times in one week.
You can still love your husband after spending FORTY FIVE hours in the car together.
While I'm glad to be back in my own bed and my own house, there are big changes on the way that are going to cause me to need another vacation.... to the spa!
The word vacation is not synonymous with "sleeping in"
Grandma will spoil you no matter how old she is... or how old you are.
Air mattresses CAN actually stay inflated.
Gummy bears are made with vegetables. Yup, we really heard that.
Restaurants in the South DO run out of biscuits.
One man can convince five women to walk out of a restaurant. Thank you Coach for convincing us that we wanted sushi instead of Friday's.
God can save you from anything. Even a speeding ticket.
You can still love Chipotle after eating it three times in one week.
You can still love your husband after spending FORTY FIVE hours in the car together.
While I'm glad to be back in my own bed and my own house, there are big changes on the way that are going to cause me to need another vacation.... to the spa!
Monday, June 6, 2011
Coachism's
If you ever want to know how my husband feels or thinks, you usually just have to ask. He's not one to hold back his feelings or philosophies.
Earlier this week, after hearing repeated yelling during a round of Wii baseball, I went to investigate. I walk into the room to see that the game is tied and I ask why he is so frustrated. To which my dearly beloved says...
"Because we all know tying is like kissing your grandma.......... french kissing your grandma."
Well then...
Coach - 1
Kacey - 0
No ties here.
Earlier this week, after hearing repeated yelling during a round of Wii baseball, I went to investigate. I walk into the room to see that the game is tied and I ask why he is so frustrated. To which my dearly beloved says...
"Because we all know tying is like kissing your grandma.......... french kissing your grandma."
Well then...
Coach - 1
Kacey - 0
No ties here.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Optimism helps my world go 'round
Lately, I've been having a lot of "so busy I can't think straight" days. Welcome to life with two jobs, a house and a husband to take care of. After a particularly busy and stressful day, someone came up to me and said "Thank you for being such an optimist. I really needed it today." I was taken aback. I don't mind being accused of being an optimist, in fact, I would venture to say it is probably my tendency to be an optimist, but there are days when I don't feel like being positive. That was one of those days. You know, the days where you want to tell people how you really feel.
Even the most optimistic person in the world experiences times in life when it is just downright hard to find a glimmer of sunlight in a situation. Times when you feel as though the storm is coming... the world is ending... the sky is falling. A child dies, a loved one is given a terminal diagnosis or is facing a drug addiction.
When I find myself in a deep, dark place in life, I seek out some sort of optimism (quotes, Bible verses, etc.) to help me cope. I have to share my discovery during my most recent quest - The Optimist's Creed. I found it to very inspiring and challenging. In fact, it's my new wall art in the office so I can remember the things that really matter.
Promise Yourself ...
To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.
To talk health, happiness and prosperity to every person you meet.
To make all your friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them.
To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.
To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best.
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.
To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.
To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others.
To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.
A few things that jumped out at me...
"To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind" -- NOTHING. Not the screaming kids. Not the piles of laundry. Not the unexpected repair bill. Not a diagnosis. Not a death. Nothing means nothing. You've got to have a strong peace of mind (one that can only be found through Christ) to cope with those things.
"To talk health, happiness and prosperity to every person you meet." So often we equate health to being negative news. But it doesn't have to be! God is in the healing business and we don't talk enough about it! God has been speaking to me lately about opening my mouth and using my health testimony. I'm not big on divulging my life to strangers, so it's something that I've been working on.
"make your optimism come true." What we think plays a large part of who we become. We've all known a "Negative Nancy" in life and they are not pleasant to be around. If we think optimistically, we are bound to help the optimistic outlook come true. As Henry Ford said, "Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, you are right"
"to be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own" Sure, we give people high fives, hugs and handshakes when they have accomplished something great, but deep down, are we TRULY happy for them? Or is there a nagging feeling of jealousy buried deep within?
"give every living creature you meet a smile" Ugh. I'm just not sure about smiling at a spider.... or a snake. Seriously though, this line might be the hardest, even if we eliminate animals. There are people in life who you just don't want to smile at. They are a thorn in your side. But a smile is a simple curve that can set a lot of things straight. It's true. You really can get through to people a lot easier by being nice to them rather than returning their ill moods and attitudes.
If we can follow the creed, we are bound to not only make our own lives more bearable, but we are probably going to impact those around us too. There are a lot of people with squeaky wheels who just need a little bit of optimistic oil squeezed into their lives. A few words or a simple smile can make a profound difference!
Even the most optimistic person in the world experiences times in life when it is just downright hard to find a glimmer of sunlight in a situation. Times when you feel as though the storm is coming... the world is ending... the sky is falling. A child dies, a loved one is given a terminal diagnosis or is facing a drug addiction.
When I find myself in a deep, dark place in life, I seek out some sort of optimism (quotes, Bible verses, etc.) to help me cope. I have to share my discovery during my most recent quest - The Optimist's Creed. I found it to very inspiring and challenging. In fact, it's my new wall art in the office so I can remember the things that really matter.
Promise Yourself ...
To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.
To talk health, happiness and prosperity to every person you meet.
To make all your friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them.
To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.
To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best.
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.
To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.
To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others.
To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.
A few things that jumped out at me...
"To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind" -- NOTHING. Not the screaming kids. Not the piles of laundry. Not the unexpected repair bill. Not a diagnosis. Not a death. Nothing means nothing. You've got to have a strong peace of mind (one that can only be found through Christ) to cope with those things.
"To talk health, happiness and prosperity to every person you meet." So often we equate health to being negative news. But it doesn't have to be! God is in the healing business and we don't talk enough about it! God has been speaking to me lately about opening my mouth and using my health testimony. I'm not big on divulging my life to strangers, so it's something that I've been working on.
"make your optimism come true." What we think plays a large part of who we become. We've all known a "Negative Nancy" in life and they are not pleasant to be around. If we think optimistically, we are bound to help the optimistic outlook come true. As Henry Ford said, "Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, you are right"
"to be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own" Sure, we give people high fives, hugs and handshakes when they have accomplished something great, but deep down, are we TRULY happy for them? Or is there a nagging feeling of jealousy buried deep within?
"give every living creature you meet a smile" Ugh. I'm just not sure about smiling at a spider.... or a snake. Seriously though, this line might be the hardest, even if we eliminate animals. There are people in life who you just don't want to smile at. They are a thorn in your side. But a smile is a simple curve that can set a lot of things straight. It's true. You really can get through to people a lot easier by being nice to them rather than returning their ill moods and attitudes.
If we can follow the creed, we are bound to not only make our own lives more bearable, but we are probably going to impact those around us too. There are a lot of people with squeaky wheels who just need a little bit of optimistic oil squeezed into their lives. A few words or a simple smile can make a profound difference!
Thursday, April 14, 2011
That takes some Rizpah
When Christian women think of a woman role model in the Bible, they usually go straight to the Proverbs 31 woman. While that woman has some serious qualities to be envious of, there are many other awe inspiring ladies in the Bible. I recently studied a woman who I had never studied before...
Her name is Rizpah. Her story is tragic, yet her character shines through.
Rizpah was one of King Saul's concubines. At one point during his reign, Saul attempted to wipe out the entire population of Gibeonites who were living in Israel. Because Joshua had promised protection to the Gibeonites, they were a little upset over this task and so was God. Israel began experiencing a three year famine after the attempted annihilation. When King David came to rule, he attempted to make amends with the Gibeonites in hopes of ending the famine. They called for the death Saul's sons -- two of those belonging to Rizpah. Her two sons were put to death and left for the animals to devour. Her sons were not given a proper burial, and momma was not going to settle for that.
Bless this momma's heart...instead of getting mad, bitter or depressed over the situation, she gets out her sackcloth and she stands on the mountaintop with her dead sons from approximately late April (during the barley harvest) to early October (when the rains come) to scare away the birds and the animals.
Think about that for a minute. No shelter. No companion. Just her and God and two dead, rotting bodies. FOR SIX MONTHS. She couldn't have gotten much sleep because the animals come out at night. Can you imagine being outside in the dead of night and turning around to see glimmering eyes and a set of chompers staring at you in the face, ready to devour your two sons? That takes some... "Rizpah"
This mother fiercely loved her children and faithfully stood by their side until they were given a proper burial. She fought for what was right. And she won! Not only were her sons given a proper burial, but the other five men were as well. Her faithfulness paid off.
Our faithfulness through tough situations will also be rewarded. God knows your situation and He will provide... in His time. We just have to be faithful and leave the rest up to Him. As Mother Teresa said "I am not called to be successful, I am called to be faithful."
May we find the love, courage and tenacity of Rizpah to be faithful through our toughest situations.
Her name is Rizpah. Her story is tragic, yet her character shines through.
Rizpah was one of King Saul's concubines. At one point during his reign, Saul attempted to wipe out the entire population of Gibeonites who were living in Israel. Because Joshua had promised protection to the Gibeonites, they were a little upset over this task and so was God. Israel began experiencing a three year famine after the attempted annihilation. When King David came to rule, he attempted to make amends with the Gibeonites in hopes of ending the famine. They called for the death Saul's sons -- two of those belonging to Rizpah. Her two sons were put to death and left for the animals to devour. Her sons were not given a proper burial, and momma was not going to settle for that.
Bless this momma's heart...instead of getting mad, bitter or depressed over the situation, she gets out her sackcloth and she stands on the mountaintop with her dead sons from approximately late April (during the barley harvest) to early October (when the rains come) to scare away the birds and the animals.
Think about that for a minute. No shelter. No companion. Just her and God and two dead, rotting bodies. FOR SIX MONTHS. She couldn't have gotten much sleep because the animals come out at night. Can you imagine being outside in the dead of night and turning around to see glimmering eyes and a set of chompers staring at you in the face, ready to devour your two sons? That takes some... "Rizpah"
This mother fiercely loved her children and faithfully stood by their side until they were given a proper burial. She fought for what was right. And she won! Not only were her sons given a proper burial, but the other five men were as well. Her faithfulness paid off.
Our faithfulness through tough situations will also be rewarded. God knows your situation and He will provide... in His time. We just have to be faithful and leave the rest up to Him. As Mother Teresa said "I am not called to be successful, I am called to be faithful."
May we find the love, courage and tenacity of Rizpah to be faithful through our toughest situations.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Happy Birthday Honey!
This year marks this 8th birthday that I've known you. Wow, the time flies!
I can't blindfold you and drive you three hours to the beach this year like I did for your 19th birthday because we don't have the time. We don't even have time to drive 45 minutes to the beach! We are busy... and broke but we still make time for each other. And those moments and memories are what I love and look forward to.
Little things like this...
I love how you get excited when you know we are going to have something good for dinner... like tacos. (PS - We are having those tonight for your birthday)
I love that you sing your heart out in the car, no matter who is in the car with us.
I love that you talk football with me like I'm one of the guys. One of these days I'm going to get it!
I love that you make me laugh by being your silly self.
I love how you are spontaneous, yet easy going. You provide a balance to my planned life in a way I never thought I needed.
I love that you lead the high schoolers in FCA and men's group at church, among all your other responsibilities. You are such an amazing example of what a man should be -- loving, smart, dedicated, determined and respected.
I love that you can carry on a conversation with anyone about anything. You are incredibly gifted in connecting with people.
I love that you love and care for my family as your own, even with all their crazy tendencies.
I love that you clean the bathrooms and take out the garbage in the name of love.
I love that you say you want lots of little boys, but secretly, you want to have lots of princess girls. hehe.
I love that you sit with me at the dinner table every night and listen to me, believe in me, and value my opinion.
I love that you pray with me and for me.
I love that you wear NFL apparel of my choosing!!
And most of all, I love that you love me. You tell me I'm pretty even when I'm in my old pajamas, my makeup is off, my hair is crazy, I have morning breath and there are pimples all over my face.
You are certainly more than I ever could dream of and more than I ever thought I deserved. Today, and every day, I celebrate you :)
I can't blindfold you and drive you three hours to the beach this year like I did for your 19th birthday because we don't have the time. We don't even have time to drive 45 minutes to the beach! We are busy... and broke but we still make time for each other. And those moments and memories are what I love and look forward to.
Little things like this...
I love how you get excited when you know we are going to have something good for dinner... like tacos. (PS - We are having those tonight for your birthday)
I love that you sing your heart out in the car, no matter who is in the car with us.
I love that you talk football with me like I'm one of the guys. One of these days I'm going to get it!
I love that you make me laugh by being your silly self.
I love how you are spontaneous, yet easy going. You provide a balance to my planned life in a way I never thought I needed.
I love that you lead the high schoolers in FCA and men's group at church, among all your other responsibilities. You are such an amazing example of what a man should be -- loving, smart, dedicated, determined and respected.
I love that you can carry on a conversation with anyone about anything. You are incredibly gifted in connecting with people.
I love that you love and care for my family as your own, even with all their crazy tendencies.
I love that you clean the bathrooms and take out the garbage in the name of love.
I love that you say you want lots of little boys, but secretly, you want to have lots of princess girls. hehe.
I love that you sit with me at the dinner table every night and listen to me, believe in me, and value my opinion.
I love that you pray with me and for me.
I love that you wear NFL apparel of my choosing!!
And most of all, I love that you love me. You tell me I'm pretty even when I'm in my old pajamas, my makeup is off, my hair is crazy, I have morning breath and there are pimples all over my face.
You are certainly more than I ever could dream of and more than I ever thought I deserved. Today, and every day, I celebrate you :)
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Spring Cleaning
This past weekend I took advantage of an extra day off work to do some serious spring cleaning around the house. Just so you know how serious it was -- I cleaned the oven.
Except I didn't. Yes, I cheated. The oven cleaned itself.
Thank God for whoever invented self cleaning ovens. And bless our landlords for buying one :) The one problem of the self cleaning oven is that after the cleaning process, you have a house that is about 7,000 degrees. Great in the winter.... Not so great in the spring when the temp is 75 degrees. Oops.
After I wiped my oven down and it was all sparkly, my life seemed so much better. With the exception of the blazing hot house. While icing myself down, I had a revelation. Ready for it? Our oven is like our heart.
No, our hearts don't make our houses feel like the Sahara Desert. Nor do they bake delicious mounds of bread or cakes or anything else. Here's my thinkin' Lincoln...
I don't know about you, but I don't put "clean the oven" on my weekly to do list because the inside of the oven isn't something that a visitor could see right away. I admit, on most days, my house LOOKS clean, but if you really start looking, you are going to find some hidden crud. Specifically in my oven.... after I bake a lasagna.
We, too, can also LOOK like we are doing well. We can do our hair and nails, wear a smile and pretend to be "doing great" when we really aren't. Just like my oven, I let slime and grime build up in my heart because people can't see in there. I can appear to be okay when deep down, my heart is being hardened because I haven't made time to read the word. Or it is being littered with anger, worry and negativity because I refuse to let go. Or, it is being dirtied with unforgiven sins because I become too busy to ask for forgiveness.
Cleaning my oven just took a switch of a button and enduring some heat. Heart cleansing just takes submission and confession. Jesus already took the heat. The gunk of our hearts will be "burned off" when we confess our sins:
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.1 John 1:9
Maybe it's time to do a little spiritual spring cleaning. Don't let your heart get dirty. Allow God to create in you a clean heart.
Except I didn't. Yes, I cheated. The oven cleaned itself.
Thank God for whoever invented self cleaning ovens. And bless our landlords for buying one :) The one problem of the self cleaning oven is that after the cleaning process, you have a house that is about 7,000 degrees. Great in the winter.... Not so great in the spring when the temp is 75 degrees. Oops.
After I wiped my oven down and it was all sparkly, my life seemed so much better. With the exception of the blazing hot house. While icing myself down, I had a revelation. Ready for it? Our oven is like our heart.
No, our hearts don't make our houses feel like the Sahara Desert. Nor do they bake delicious mounds of bread or cakes or anything else. Here's my thinkin' Lincoln...
I don't know about you, but I don't put "clean the oven" on my weekly to do list because the inside of the oven isn't something that a visitor could see right away. I admit, on most days, my house LOOKS clean, but if you really start looking, you are going to find some hidden crud. Specifically in my oven.... after I bake a lasagna.
We, too, can also LOOK like we are doing well. We can do our hair and nails, wear a smile and pretend to be "doing great" when we really aren't. Just like my oven, I let slime and grime build up in my heart because people can't see in there. I can appear to be okay when deep down, my heart is being hardened because I haven't made time to read the word. Or it is being littered with anger, worry and negativity because I refuse to let go. Or, it is being dirtied with unforgiven sins because I become too busy to ask for forgiveness.
Cleaning my oven just took a switch of a button and enduring some heat. Heart cleansing just takes submission and confession. Jesus already took the heat. The gunk of our hearts will be "burned off" when we confess our sins:
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.1 John 1:9
Maybe it's time to do a little spiritual spring cleaning. Don't let your heart get dirty. Allow God to create in you a clean heart.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Patience is a.....pain
Seriously. Let's forget the virtue thing. Patience is painful.
Let me start off this post by saying I absolutely hate being late to anything. I can remember hating it as a child. We were ALWAYS late and everyone was waiting on us. I have vowed to not be late to things. (I know, wait until I have kids, right?)
I don't have to wait. I am being trained right now. This morning as my beloved husband decided to get in the shower 20 minutes before church began, I found myself reciting "Love is patient... Love is patient... Love is patient" We walked into church 5 minutes late and my little punctual self was not a happy camper.
But then God said "Hey my Pouty Princess, listen here. When you have to wait on people, I am training you to wait on ME." Humph.
Okay, okay. The world didn't end because we were five minutes late. In fact, those five minutes might have kept us from being a part of an accident. And the world won't end because God doesn't answer His door when I want to. He'll open the door when He is ready. I have a hard time remembering that God's delays are not God's denials. I just have to WAIT.
Sigh. I'm not good at waiting. But I'll work on it....
Let me start off this post by saying I absolutely hate being late to anything. I can remember hating it as a child. We were ALWAYS late and everyone was waiting on us. I have vowed to not be late to things. (I know, wait until I have kids, right?)
I don't have to wait. I am being trained right now. This morning as my beloved husband decided to get in the shower 20 minutes before church began, I found myself reciting "Love is patient... Love is patient... Love is patient" We walked into church 5 minutes late and my little punctual self was not a happy camper.
But then God said "Hey my Pouty Princess, listen here. When you have to wait on people, I am training you to wait on ME." Humph.
Okay, okay. The world didn't end because we were five minutes late. In fact, those five minutes might have kept us from being a part of an accident. And the world won't end because God doesn't answer His door when I want to. He'll open the door when He is ready. I have a hard time remembering that God's delays are not God's denials. I just have to WAIT.
Sigh. I'm not good at waiting. But I'll work on it....
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Stores,Stores of the South
Yes, it's true I am alive! After reading this post, you might think I've been buried in coupons. That's not the case :) I assure you, I spend no more than an hour on coupons each week. I clip from the paper and I print all the printables I see during the week, put them in a pile and clip them all together before I go shopping.
I point out the time I spend on coupons because I hear so many people say "I just don't have time for that". Well, let me tell you, I just don't have the time (or money) not to clip coupons.
Let me illustrate by my shopping trip this week:
It is hard to capture everything in a picture. But here is a list...
1 40pk Hefty Trash Bags
1-8 Roll Scott Toilet Paper
8 cans of Green Giant Veggies
20 cans of Hunts Tomato Sauce
8 packs of Uncle Bens Long Grain Chicken and Wild Rice
2 Boxes of Ritz Crackerfulls
1 Bag of TendaBake pancake/waffle mix
1 Box of Minute Brown Rice
4 Boxes of Green Giant Frozen Veggies
2 Cans of Muir Glen Organic Fire Roasted Tomatoes
2 Jars of Bertolli Pasta sauce
2 cans of Pillsbury Crescent Rolls
4 boxes of chicken broth
4 cans of Progresso Beans
2 cans of Progresso Soup
3 half gallons of Silk Almond Milk
2 quarts of Good Belly Probiotic Drink
1 32 oz Pacific Almond Milk
2 cans of Lindsay Black Olives
1 jug of Log Cabin Syrup
1 package of Butterball Turkey Bacon
1 package of Butterball Turkey Sausage
2 packages of al Fresco Chicken Sausages
1 organic whole chicken
1 package of organic baby carrots
1 package of Sargento cheese
2 packages of Wholly guacamole
1 package of Activia Blueberry Cheesecake Yogurt
1 bottle of Kikkoman soy sauce
1 dish of mashed potatoes
1 bottle of Men's Vaseline lotion
10 gallons of water (not pictured)
Total spent? $56.52. Yup, fifty six bucks. Retail price (before sales and coupons) was $192.20. I saved $135.68. All for an hours worth of coupons each week. I save more money by clipping coupons than I make in an entire day at work.
Now, I will tell you one secret.... living in the South is a tremendous help. I shopped this week at three stores that they don't have in the North. Earth Fare is the equivalent of Whole Foods, except they have awesome coupons. (I got the chicken, carrots and mashed potatoes for FREE there just for buying water and a few other things I had coupons for.)
Then, Harris Teeter was having Super Doubles week where they double any coupon with a face value of up to $1.98. I love those weeks.
And Publix had an awesome deal on General Mills and Hunts products. They offer store coupons that you can use along WITH manufacturer coupons.
So, yes, the stores in the South rock. And they put Walmart's "Low Prices" to shame!
I point out the time I spend on coupons because I hear so many people say "I just don't have time for that". Well, let me tell you, I just don't have the time (or money) not to clip coupons.
Let me illustrate by my shopping trip this week:
1 40pk Hefty Trash Bags
1-8 Roll Scott Toilet Paper
8 cans of Green Giant Veggies
20 cans of Hunts Tomato Sauce
8 packs of Uncle Bens Long Grain Chicken and Wild Rice
2 Boxes of Ritz Crackerfulls
1 Bag of TendaBake pancake/waffle mix
1 Box of Minute Brown Rice
4 Boxes of Green Giant Frozen Veggies
2 Cans of Muir Glen Organic Fire Roasted Tomatoes
2 Jars of Bertolli Pasta sauce
2 cans of Pillsbury Crescent Rolls
4 boxes of chicken broth
4 cans of Progresso Beans
2 cans of Progresso Soup
3 half gallons of Silk Almond Milk
2 quarts of Good Belly Probiotic Drink
1 32 oz Pacific Almond Milk
2 cans of Lindsay Black Olives
1 jug of Log Cabin Syrup
1 package of Butterball Turkey Bacon
1 package of Butterball Turkey Sausage
2 packages of al Fresco Chicken Sausages
1 organic whole chicken
1 package of organic baby carrots
1 package of Sargento cheese
2 packages of Wholly guacamole
1 package of Activia Blueberry Cheesecake Yogurt
1 bottle of Kikkoman soy sauce
1 dish of mashed potatoes
1 bottle of Men's Vaseline lotion
10 gallons of water (not pictured)
Total spent? $56.52. Yup, fifty six bucks. Retail price (before sales and coupons) was $192.20. I saved $135.68. All for an hours worth of coupons each week. I save more money by clipping coupons than I make in an entire day at work.
Now, I will tell you one secret.... living in the South is a tremendous help. I shopped this week at three stores that they don't have in the North. Earth Fare is the equivalent of Whole Foods, except they have awesome coupons. (I got the chicken, carrots and mashed potatoes for FREE there just for buying water and a few other things I had coupons for.)
Then, Harris Teeter was having Super Doubles week where they double any coupon with a face value of up to $1.98. I love those weeks.
And Publix had an awesome deal on General Mills and Hunts products. They offer store coupons that you can use along WITH manufacturer coupons.
So, yes, the stores in the South rock. And they put Walmart's "Low Prices" to shame!
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Dream On!
We all have dreams in our life. We dream about getting our driver's license, going on our first date, graduating high school/college, getting married to the prettiest/richest woman/man, having lots of kids, dogs, cats, birds, etc. There are dreams planted in us. We were built for a purpose. (Jeremiah 1:5 - "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you... Before you were born, I set you apart." )
When you ask a little kid "What do you want to be when you grow up?", you always get fascinating answers. But ask some adults that same question and you'll usually be bored with their answer. Most likely they won't seem quite as excited as a five year old. Or they may not even have an answer. Somewhere between the years, the vision has been lost. But why?
Do we forget about them in our quest to earn a paycheck? In our money driven culture, I'm afraid too many people have let the pursuit of money ruin their pursuit of happyness.
Or do we just allow our dreams to fade away and write them off as being "impossible"? Do we believe that we aren't capable of accomplishing our dream? Part of that is truth -- we cannot accomplish things on our own. We need God to help us in accomplishing the dream. But we have to ask for it.
There is a story about a man who died and went to heaven. St. Peter met him at the gate and told him that he would take him to the place God had prepared for him. They passed street after street of big, beautiful mansions. The man got really excited, but they just kept walking. Finally, they stopped in front of a small, but livable house and St. Peter told him that this was his home. It wasn't a mansion, but the man was happy to just be in heaven.
However, as the man opened the door, he saw stacks and stacks of unopened boxes in his house. The man asked "What are these boxes for?". St. Peter replied "These are the gifts that God had for you while you were on Earth, but you never asked for them, so He never sent them"
Ouch. What gifts are waiting for you that you just haven't asked for? God has boxes filled with powers to conquer what you thought was impossible. So the task being impossible is no excuse.
Really, do you have an excuse? You can either spend your time making excuses or spend your time making a WAY. There is a quote that I love "The only thing that's keeping you from getting what you want is the story you keep telling yourself about why you can't have it"
So get out there and "Dream On" because you are never to old (or too young) to have big dreams.
When you ask a little kid "What do you want to be when you grow up?", you always get fascinating answers. But ask some adults that same question and you'll usually be bored with their answer. Most likely they won't seem quite as excited as a five year old. Or they may not even have an answer. Somewhere between the years, the vision has been lost. But why?
Do we forget about them in our quest to earn a paycheck? In our money driven culture, I'm afraid too many people have let the pursuit of money ruin their pursuit of happyness.
Or do we just allow our dreams to fade away and write them off as being "impossible"? Do we believe that we aren't capable of accomplishing our dream? Part of that is truth -- we cannot accomplish things on our own. We need God to help us in accomplishing the dream. But we have to ask for it.
There is a story about a man who died and went to heaven. St. Peter met him at the gate and told him that he would take him to the place God had prepared for him. They passed street after street of big, beautiful mansions. The man got really excited, but they just kept walking. Finally, they stopped in front of a small, but livable house and St. Peter told him that this was his home. It wasn't a mansion, but the man was happy to just be in heaven.
However, as the man opened the door, he saw stacks and stacks of unopened boxes in his house. The man asked "What are these boxes for?". St. Peter replied "These are the gifts that God had for you while you were on Earth, but you never asked for them, so He never sent them"
Ouch. What gifts are waiting for you that you just haven't asked for? God has boxes filled with powers to conquer what you thought was impossible. So the task being impossible is no excuse.
Really, do you have an excuse? You can either spend your time making excuses or spend your time making a WAY. There is a quote that I love "The only thing that's keeping you from getting what you want is the story you keep telling yourself about why you can't have it"
So get out there and "Dream On" because you are never to old (or too young) to have big dreams.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Glimmers of Heaven
Usually around the holidays people get all reminiscent and think about those who aren't here on Earth anymore. But me? I have these random days throughout the year for no rhyme or reason.
I was blessed to be able to meet three of my four grandparents. And I am blessed that I still have one here to enjoy and cherish!
My dad's mom died 3 years before I was born. I often wonder what he would've been like, but since I never got to meet him, so I guess I don't really "miss" him. But I wish I could....
I got to spend 12 years with my mom's mom before she left this world. But 14 years later, I still think about her an incredible amount and wonder what it would be like to have her around. She taught me to be a book worm. We took countless trips on the weekends to the library. She taught me how to enjoy German food. She taught me how to cook endless things. She taught me how to work. I never went to take your daughter to work day with my parents. Grandma took me to work and it was so much better. (Isn't everything better with grandparents?!) She shared her love of hot air balloons, dolphins and lighthouses with me.
Then there was my dad's dad - Grandad. He taught me how to do word searches and to watch Braves baseball. He also proved that you can eat a mammoth bowl of chocolate ice cream and still live to be 87. He was a man of great faith and I strive to know the Bible and live like he did. He was a man of few words, but I sure do miss him just being around! When I go visit Meme, I miss the house being 81,594 degrees because Grandad didn't want the fire to go out. I miss him sitting at the end of the table at his place. In fact, everyone hesitates to sit there still because it's Grandad's seat. I miss watching him walk to and from the barn two or three times a day in his worn path.
So yes, I miss them. But you know what? God gives me reassurance that they are happy. And it looks like this:
A rainbow cloud. I don't know the technical name, but to me, it is my glimmer of heaven. These little clouds, they are openings in heaven where Grandma and Grandad can pour out their love on me and let me know they are happy :) And that makes me happy.
Cherish your moments with your loved ones. No one can confidently say that they will be here tomorrow. The only thing we can be confident of is that there is a heaven...... and there is a way to get there! I hope you know the way!
John 14:1-6
My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. 4 You know the way to the place where I am going.” 5 Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” 6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
I was blessed to be able to meet three of my four grandparents. And I am blessed that I still have one here to enjoy and cherish!
My dad's mom died 3 years before I was born. I often wonder what he would've been like, but since I never got to meet him, so I guess I don't really "miss" him. But I wish I could....
I got to spend 12 years with my mom's mom before she left this world. But 14 years later, I still think about her an incredible amount and wonder what it would be like to have her around. She taught me to be a book worm. We took countless trips on the weekends to the library. She taught me how to enjoy German food. She taught me how to cook endless things. She taught me how to work. I never went to take your daughter to work day with my parents. Grandma took me to work and it was so much better. (Isn't everything better with grandparents?!) She shared her love of hot air balloons, dolphins and lighthouses with me.
Then there was my dad's dad - Grandad. He taught me how to do word searches and to watch Braves baseball. He also proved that you can eat a mammoth bowl of chocolate ice cream and still live to be 87. He was a man of great faith and I strive to know the Bible and live like he did. He was a man of few words, but I sure do miss him just being around! When I go visit Meme, I miss the house being 81,594 degrees because Grandad didn't want the fire to go out. I miss him sitting at the end of the table at his place. In fact, everyone hesitates to sit there still because it's Grandad's seat. I miss watching him walk to and from the barn two or three times a day in his worn path.
So yes, I miss them. But you know what? God gives me reassurance that they are happy. And it looks like this:
A rainbow cloud. I don't know the technical name, but to me, it is my glimmer of heaven. These little clouds, they are openings in heaven where Grandma and Grandad can pour out their love on me and let me know they are happy :) And that makes me happy.
Cherish your moments with your loved ones. No one can confidently say that they will be here tomorrow. The only thing we can be confident of is that there is a heaven...... and there is a way to get there! I hope you know the way!
John 14:1-6
My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. 4 You know the way to the place where I am going.” 5 Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” 6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
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