R & M and the Mission Mountains

Sisters

A New Year...

I’m not one for New Year’s resolutions, they usually only last a couple months. However, the New Year does feel like a fresh start. It’s a chance to regroup and regain perspective. I find it so easy to get stuck in a rut in the day-to-day of life and so this is a chance to get out of that rut and think about what’s important and what we hope will come in another year.

R. and I talked a lot over Christmas break about wanting more out of life than just going to work and coming home and going to work and coming home, etc. We realize we need to make more time for people and for nourishing friendships. We also desire opportunity to minister to others and to share our faith. And to learn and grow and press in more with the Lord. Looking ahead to a NEW year!!!

Urgent Prayer Request

Please pray for little Hudson Taylor. He's been battling cancer over the past few months and has taken a bad turn. He's been transferred to ICU with a blood infection and his liver has shut down. Please pray for him as well as his family!!

A Bit Sentimental Lately

I imagine it’s probably because of the holidays just around the corner and all the memories associated with them, but I’ve been feeling sentimental the last few days. Memories of times with friends and thoughts of people I haven’t seen in a long time have come to mind frequently of late…..my freshman RA……my girls who stood up with us at our wedding just over a year ago……my long-time friend traveling the globe this Christmas…….my spunky, red-haired music buddy…….former co-workers who became true friends…….and so many more! I’m richly blessed!

To all of my dear friends; know that I’m thinking of you and lifting you up in prayer! I hope you have a wonderful holiday with those you love! You are missed and greatly appreciated! I’m glad to have you in my life, even from a distance.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Merry Christmas from our house to yours!!

May the presence of Christ enrich your hearts this holiday!!!

With much love!

R & M

Rocking the Boat

We were in Louisiana over the weekend visiting R’s family. On Sunday all of us went out for breakfast. R, his little brother, and I rode in our car. When we were getting out of the vehicle at the restaurant, we got a stare down from an older, white woman who was preparing to leave. Any of you who have ever seen the movie ‘Save the Last Dance’ will the recall the classic scene on the train when an older, white passenger is staring at actors Sean Patrick Thomas (African-American) and Julia Stiles (Caucasian) who are traveling together on a date to the ballet. Once Stiles realizes they’re being observed she turns it on and starts necking with Thomas. I didn’t quite go for that, but when the woman continued to stare at us, I smiled and waved at her. Needless to say she looked away and drove off. It made me laugh, but at the same time it really saddened me. When we went into the restaurant, the host found it necessary to ask if I was with the group, even though I was the first to follow him when he said our table was ready. Thankfully R and I haven’t experienced any outright hostility because of our interracial marriage, but prejudice isn’t dead by any means.

In his book “Searching for God Knows What” Donald Miller says our culture is built upon a life-boat mentality. We’re always comparing ourselves with each other and looking for those differences that set us apart from others. We try to make sure that if anyone is going to get thrown off the lifeboat it won’t be us. We can’t seem to understand that God isn’t looking for a reason to love us; that He loves us no matter what. Prejudice and racism have been around a long time and I’m sure will always be around in some form or another. We all struggle with it at some level. I think maybe the only way we’ll ever be free of it is if we come to know and understand God’s love in all of its perfection and beauty.

“Jesus loves the little children. All the children of the world; red and yellow, black and white, they are precious in His sight. Jesus loves the little children of the world”………

Baking Memories

R. and I indulged in a little Christmas baking on Saturday. It was the first time we’ve baked together and the first time I’ve made Christmas cookies without my Mom or my Grandma present. In spite of this, our little adventure went surprisingly smooth and the cookies were mmmmmmmmmmmmm good. Here are some fun pics. We even made portrait cookies!!!! Isn’t Christmas wonderful?!?!

Arteest at Work

Kiss the Cook

A glimmer of hope...educationally speaking.

Today I received my acceptance letter to Baylor University!!!! Much is still unresolved as far as what music degree I will major in, or if I’ll even be accepted into the music program, however it’s a big step in the right direction! I don’t know yet what credits will transfer, but after reviewing my Prairie transcripts again, they have decided to accept transferred credits! Yay!

My audition for the music department is set for March. Yikes! This voice of mine is pretty rusty after two years out of the practice room. But I have a couple months to hone my skills. All this to say, nothing is certain at this point, but progress is being made!! Phew!

"Pour out your hearts to Him."

I wrestle with consistency in my walk with the Lord. I have moments when His presence is almost tangible and all I want is more of Him. But more often my quiet time is filled with distractions and mind-wanderings. Then there are the days when I neglect to spend time with Him altogether. My inconsistency brings with it a measure of guilt and I find myself feeling unworthy to spend time with Him at all.

I recall the graceless line of a song written by a passionate, well-meaning Christian. "If you can't come to Me(God) every day, then don't bother coming at all." Once upon a time I thought this sentiment was really how the Lord felt about us...and I guess considering the guilt I feel when I neglect to spend time with Him, I must still think this is how He feels.

Should I be frustrated that I can't seem to get a handle on how I order my time and my priorities, pushing God to the margins and even neglecting Him? Certainly; there's no question about that. However I am questioning how God reacts. (As I write this I find I can't quite put into words all that's swarming around in my head.) I wonder if I recoil from His presence with guilt because I expect Him to respond in the ungracious way I respond? I struggle sometimes to believe that it's not something personal when friends don't have time for me and my knee-jerk reaction is "fine, well I don't need them anyway" and I harden myself toward them and the potential to be hurt by them because they "won't" take time for me.

Perhaps as with most things for me, it's a matter of trust. This morning I read this verse from Psalm 62, "Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge". By no means have I arrived at any conclusion for all of this, but foundationally I need to trust Him and trust that He is open and receptive when I pour out my heart to Him. He is a safe place, a refuge, and because of Jesus the throne we approach is one of grace and so we're told to approach with confidence (Hebrews 4:16). If I carry around this burden of guilt for not coming to Him, it will only hinder me from coming.

Christmas in 18 days!!!

Christmas is my favorite time of year with all the music and the lights and the time with family and friends. Our house is looking all festive, inside and out. Even though we rent, we have such great neighbors that we were able to decorate outside as well. R. and our neighbor-friend took care of the “exterior illumination” as they called it. And thankfully, neither of them fell off the roof…I admit to being a little nervous about that!!!

Though Christmas is exciting, it doesn’t hold the same level of anticipation as it did when I was a child. Perhaps as adults we know too much and expect too little. I don’t know. My Christmas prayer is that we would become that child again and remember the delight of the season, and most importantly that we will keep before us the REASON we celebrate. Jesus became a child and was born into a harsh reality for sooooooo much more than music and lights and festivities and gifts. He came to bring us hope and a future. He came to save us from our sins. Let us hold this truth dear to our hearts and know once again the innocent delight of a child.

Present State of Being

I’ve been thinking about the state of being of so many of our friends and family, as well as our own situation at present. This state of waiting and wondering; knocking on doors unanswered; desirous to move forward and yet the way seems to be blocked and barred; a hint of possibility with no apparent outcome. It strikes me as strange that so many of us seem to be in this same state and it makes me wonder if there’s more to it than meets the eye. Could it be a byproduct of the spiritual state in this day and time? I think of the story in the book of Daniel where the angel tells him that the answer was sent as soon as Daniel prayed, and yet its arrival was hindered by a battle waged in the spiritual realm. Perhaps this is the case for us as well. The answer is on its way, but is delayed by the principalities and powers with which we wrestle.

If this is so, I wonder about the significance of our requests and why the answer would be a threat to the enemy? Is the delay a means of discouragement to blind us from what God is doing and will do? Does God have mighty plans for us that Satan shudders to see fulfilled? Or maybe it is meant as a distraction to keep us agitated and unfocused in the present time; unawares and not pressed in to the presence of the Lord.

In my heart there is a battle cry that calls us to press on and not give up; to take hold of all God has planned for us and the purpose He holds for each one of us. Let’s not become bogged down and succumb to discouragement as we wait and hope and look for that purpose and plan to be realized. God is faithful! As I write this, I’m aware that this is just what I needed to hear. I’ve allowed the waiting and the unknown to distract me from my relationship with Jesus. I’ve let all the thoughts of events outside my control to crowd out thoughts of the Lord and His kingdom. I don’t want to do this any longer! Lord, please help me to walk with You, through whatever you take me, wherever You lead, even if that means continued waiting. Help me to trust You…….

From one man He made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and He determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek Him and perhaps reach out for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us. 'For in Him we live and move and have our being.' Acts 17:26-28

365 days and nights

365 days and nights together. Yesterday we celebrated a year of marriage. It's been wonderful!!! I couldn't be more thankful for my sweet husband and the wonderful, thoughful man of God he is! All the waiting and praying and tears wondering when God would bring that special man into my life were worth it. I couldn't be happier with my love!

We spent a lazy day. Went out for breakfast, put up the Christmas tree, watched a movie. R made reservations for us for dinner. He reserved this great little nook at a local Italian place and he decorated with candles. We had our own private dining with plenty of great food and service. Yay! Fun times!!!!

Thanksgiving Feast

We celebrated Thanksgiving this year with R's family. Mom C and R's sisters prepared the feast. And feast we did! The food was great! Think Texas meets Louisiana! Seafood galore! Yum! We had a wonderful time with the family. It was a good chance for me to get to know everyone better. Needless to say, we have much to be thankful for!

First Married Thanksgiving

Thank the Lord

Dad C

Astride the Golden Elephant

Our nephews

Fully Educated

In the face of time’s passage, I often feel behind in the completion of my degree. I have no regrets for how I have spent the years since high school graduation. I’ve learned a lot and met some wonderful people. There’s just the pressure to be fully educated, not to mention the glass ceiling I’ve knocked my head against more than once!

This morning I heard a brief story about a Kansas college student. It certainly makes me feel better!! Maybe it’s not so important how old I am when I finally have my degree in hand……….

Morning Edition, November 21, 2006 · Kansas college student Nola Ochs, like many of her classmates, will likely do some studying over Thanksgiving break. But unlike them, Ochs can remember the events taught in her history class. She turns 95 tomorrow. Ochs remembers World War I, the formation of the Soviet Union and the fall of the Berlin Wall. Ochs has one semester to go before she graduates. That would make her the world's oldest college graduate.

"All Rise!"

Monday morning found us in Austin, Texas where R., along with 2,500 other newly licensed lawyers, was sworn in by the Chief Justice of the Texas Supreme Court. It was fun to witness the formality of the court, including the use of Latin to call the court to order. Those who addressed the inductees stressed the responsibility upon each new lawyer and the need for them to serve with integrity. I was proud to observe from the audience and know that my husband was among those making his pledge.

On Edge

I wouldn’t be honest if I didn’t admit that I’m on edge and a little anxious wondering what’s going to happen with R’s job and where we’ll be living if we have to move. This not knowing is unnerving. And it’s not for lack of faith. I KNOW that the Lord has a place for us that He has already determined. It’s simply that I want to know! When will R. get the job? Will it be somewhere there’s a school I can attend? Do I prepare myself to say goodbye to the friends we’ve made here and the fabulous church we love? Or do I have the freedom to put down roots?

Then there’s my own struggle to know what I really want concerning school and education. I’m feeling more and more uncertain whether I want to be a full-time music student again. I recall how madly stressed out I was before and I just don’t know if I want to go back to that level of stress. Nor do I want to have my time with R. get crowded out, especially since he has just finished his education and we’re still unencumbered by the responsibility of children.

A part of me simply wants to enjoy the freedom and flexibility we have right now and then in a couple years to start a family and focus on being a good mom. Then there’s this nagging voice in the back of my head that says I’m somehow less if I don’t complete my degree. I want to complete my degree, but sometimes I think it’s just to prove something; maybe to myself and maybe to the world.

I’m sure I’m stressing over nothing and will look back as I have many times before and see how perfectly God worked everything out. It’s possible that we’ll move to a place where there’s a school that will accept transfer credits from Prairie and I can complete my degree at a more moderate pace. Meanwhile, I’m on the edge and wondering.

Introducing!

My husband: Attorney at Law

Employee's Testament

I am a whole person
My life consists of more than 8 to 5
I’m more than just an employee
I am a wife, a mother, a sister, a friend

While I am at work, I dedicate myself to working hard
But when 5 comes around, I will leave
I will not apologize for leaving right on time
Just like I don’t apologize for my prompt arrival

While I am at work, my time is yours
But I will use up every last hour of vacation leave
I will not apologize for taking time off
I’m more than just an employee

I am a whole person
I have hobbies and interests and charm
I have a family and they come first
I am more than just an employee

You the employer should know
Good employees are hard to find
And harder to find is to keep them
Perhaps the answer lies with you

I am a whole person
And as such I deserve your respect
Don’t come between me and my husband, my child
For they’re more to me than this job

I may be one among many employees
But I’m the only wife and mother they have
If a whole person’s more than you bargained for
Perhaps it’s a robot you want

by Mollie

The Importance of Being Earnest

Now that the Bar results are in, the job search has begun in earnest. Please pray that the Lord will guide us and open the door that is best for us. Please pray that we will trust Him to care for us and that we won't get impatient as we wait. It's all a little overwhelming. The last seeming obstacle has been removed and yet we must still rely on the Lord to make a way for us. And sometimes trusting is hard, especially when circumstances are difficult in the waiting room............

Ladies and Gentleman!

After much anticipation and jitters, I am THRILLED to report that my sweet husband has successfully passed the Texas Bar Examination!!!!!! Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!!!!!!!!!!!!! Oh, my gosh! Yikes! I can't breathe, I can't breathe!!!! Phew! Wow! Yeah...we're a little excited!

Results came out a day earlier than scheduled and I had the great privilege of giving R. the wonderful news. I’m soooooooo proud of him and the many, many hours of study and hard work that went into this success!

We spent the weekend celebrating with family and friends. Friday night found us at the Elite with a relaxed time of conversation and laughter and jazz music. Then on Saturday we drove to R’s parents and were wined and dined at a “superior” restaurant in Louisiana. It was a great time with the whole family together!

Today we’re back to work and the anticipation of the next thing for us now that this very large hurdle has been passed! Congratulations, darling! I’m so proud of you, not just for this great accomplishment, but for who you are. I love you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Happy November!

It finally feels like Fall here today, though Texas style that still promises a high of 60 degrees for this afternoon. Still, I dug the turtleneck out of the drawer and feel all cozy and warm. I love Fall! I love the smell of the air and the holidays coming just around the corner. It's beautiful and refreshing and I feel like celebrating the day!

Blessings to all!!

School House Rock!!!

I wrote a week or so ago that I was experiencing a bit of a dilemma regarding the completion of my degree. So much hinged on responses outside my control. Well, as always, the Lord has been faithful to make a way for me once again! I received news on Friday that I've been granted an extension to complete my degree, giving me 4 semesters instead of just 3, and they will accept credits from the local community college which makes it much more financially feasible!!! I still feel kinda shocked as if this can't really be happening, but it's becoming more and more real. I'm going back to school!!!!!!!! Yippy!!!!! God is so faithful!!

Blessed..........

Yesterday R. and I celebrated eleven months of marriage! And I’m so thankful. I’m thankful for a husband I can respect, who’s filled with wisdom, and is sensitive to the needs of others, who’s not afraid to speak the truth and stand up for what he believes, who loves me unconditionally. I’m thankful for the deepening love in our relationship. I’m thankful to be married to you, sweetheart! Thank you for being who you are!!

From not Toward

Our Sunday School teacher asked our class whether we "felt" married when we first wed. He then told us that even if we didn't feel married, the reality was that we were married and thus we work from that reality and no longer toward it as we did when we were but engaged. He proceeded to tell us that this is true in our walk with the Lord as well. Scripture often speaks in the past tense when relating our relationship with God. Saved, redeemed, the old has passed away. Once His initial work of redemption has taken place in our hearts and we are "born again" or "saved", then we aren't walking toward this state of salvation, but His salvation becomes the source from which we walk.

From, not toward.... No longer reaching, but walking in the reality of this truth. And oh how I need to understand this reality. I seem to be in a constant state of striving. I may grasp and believe in God's love for me, but I'm certain I don't understand it as it really is because I still find myself working to keep it.

The same is true with human relationships. Even in marriage, when I know without a doubt that R. loves me intensely, I still live as though his love is dependent upon my behavior. Living as if I could lose his love if I "mess up" enough. Living in fear.....

"There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love." (1 John) Oh to submit my heart to this reality and to know this truth in all its fullness. To grasp God's heart toward me and the depth of His great love. Jesus, here is my heart.

Music Muse

As the end of the year approaches I have turned my attention to finishing my music degree. First things first, I applied to the school at which I am currently employed. I sent off for my college transcripts and upon their arrival, I excitedly presented them to the admissions counselor. Her words to me, however, quickly brought to my attention that this would not be a smooth process. Because Prairie is accredited only as a Bible College, they would not accept ANY credits for transfer. Not half, not some, but NONE. I was expecting that transferring credits would put me back a little, realizing they probably would only give partial credit, but I was completely shocked to hear that none of my hard work would be acknowledged.

And so began the search for options. Here a little background is appropriate. Soon after I moved to Texas and left Prairie behind, they completely revamped their degree programs, eliminating the degree program I had begun. Now for my options. If I choose to complete the degree I started through Prairie, I may do so, as long as I finish it by June of 2008. This sounds like a ways off, until one stops to calculate that this would mean completing 66 music credits in a year and a half, including an internship. So the search continues, comparing the current revamped degree to the old one to see what's different between the two, thinking perhaps I should just switch majors. Upon further review, however, I discover that changing majors would signal the end of music classes because my degree was revamped to the extent that it hardly bears resemblence to a music degree at all. Nope, that won't work. And I'm really not okay with nearly killing myself to complete my degree in such a short time, especially so early on in our marriage when we're still free of the responsibility of children.

At this point, then, it seems my options are shrinking rapidly. I'm still hopeful that something will work out for I know that the Lord knew about these circumstances ahead of time. However, that something still eludes me. Please pray for guidance. That my heart and motivations will be pure before the Lord, that even the seeking to finish my degree would not arise from my own pride, but will arise from an understanding of what the Lord has called me to with music.

Prayer in the Waiting Room

Psalm 13

1 How long, O LORD ? Will you forget me forever?
How long will you hide your face from me?
2 How long must I wrestle with my thoughts
and every day have sorrow in my heart?
How long will my enemy triumph over me?
3 Look on me and answer, O LORD my God.
Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death;
4 my enemy will say, "I have overcome him,"
and my foes will rejoice when I fall.
5 But I trust in your unfailing love;
my heart rejoices in your salvation.
6 I will sing to the LORD,
for he has been good to me.

Rainy Monday

On the weekends it seems somehow easier to remain positive and hopefull about the next step for us and the opportunity for an attorney job for R. But then Monday morning comes around, and a rainy Monday at that, and I feel the reality of another week in the same old job doing the same old thing all over again. It's frustrating! I know in my heart that this time won't be forever. And I know that this time of waiting has been good for us; we've learned so much and drawn closer to the Lord. But even in the face of this knowledge I get discouraged about not seeing any answers in sight. When, Lord? How much longer do we have to wait?

Open Mic Night!

So...as I mentioned, Friday night was my musical debut here in Texas! And it went great! A number of friends turned out to support me. All in all there were probably about 25 to 30 people at the coffee house (about 10 were friends). I sang first and did 3 songs that I've written new this year. I started my first song and a few people I didn't know changed seats to be closer to where I was. Then when I sang my second song, the whole place went completely silent and everyone stopped what they were doing to listen. It was so humbling to have such a response!! For years friends and family and especially R. have been telling me that my songs are good and that I need to get out there, but I think deep down I really thought that they only felt that way because they care about me and so they're biased in their opinions. But on Friday night I realized that there truly is potential for me to perform and perhaps even become a recording artist as I've always dreamed. We'll see what happens next and where God leads us. Whatever happens I'm blessed by how well it went and for the affirmation I received from those who came to listen.
Thank you, sweetheart, for encouraging me to go for it!!!! You're my hero!!!!

Where's Raldo?

He's out promoting me and tonight's coffee house!! I'm actually taking the plunge and getting out there with my music! Tonight! The Java Hut! 8pm! Three new songs! Yay!!!!!

Lord have mercy......

I just don’t understand…..why would anyone to into a school and shoot up a bunch of girls? Why? What drives someone to do that? To look right at them and pull the trigger? And not once, but multiple times? I just don’t get it. Senseless brutality.

R. and I have been discussing the recent wave of evil we’ve seen in the media. The real life kind aside, it’s all over the movies and the tv series’. A couple weekends ago we went to the movies to watch a PG-13 movie. In the previews there were THREE horror movie trailers for our viewing. I couldn’t watch, but just hearing them was enough to trail bad images through my mind and left me feeling violated. Then, we’ve recently started watching ‘Jericho’, a new tv series. It’s been clean so far, but we have to change channels just to avoid the graphic contents of previews for CSI and other shows that I recall liking at one time. What’s the deal? Why are we so obsessed with violence and downright evil? What about it draws our attention and interest?

A friend and I were discussing the devil and how hard it is to imagine him as an actual being, likely because of the caricatures of him running around in a red suit holding a pitchfork. But it takes no imagination to believe that he does exist when looking at the evidence of his handiwork in the evil surrounding and inundating us.

I think of the Scripture in Matthew that talks about the increase of wickedness causing the love of most to grow cold. The love of MOST. That means I’m not immune to it. I can’t get cocky and think that could never happen to me. It makes me realize even more how very dependant I am and must be on the Lord to keep me. I don’t want to get to the place where this evil is just taken in stride; to a place where my heart is hardened to its horror. Keep my heart soft, Jesus. Please keep my eyes on You; seeking You more, knowing You in a deeper way. Lord have mercy……….

Encouraging Quote

from Hudson Taylor, missionary to China, 1865

“The believer does not need to wait until he sees the reason of God’s afflictive dealings with him ere he is satisfied; he knows that all things work together for good to them that love God; that all dealings are those of a loving Father, who only permits that which for the time being is grievous in order to accomplish results that cannot be achieved in any less painful way. The wise and trustful child of God rejoices in tribulation…our Heavenly Father delights to trust a trustworthy child with a trial in which he can bring glory to God, and through which he will receive permanent enlargement of heart and blessings for himself and others.”

Please continue to pray for little Hudson Taylor. I mentioned him awhile back. He's one year old and battling cancer. Please join with us in praying for his healing.

Ten Terrific Months

Today is our 10th monthiversary! Ten months of learning and stretching and growing in new ways and ten months of the sweetest relationship I've ever known. I'm so thankful for my precious husband. R. is truly a gift from the Lord and I couldn't be more blessed to have him as my own!!

Last night as we talked just after we arrived home from work, I realized that I've been carrying some concerns inside for awhile. I've been concerned about getting stuck in this job and not getting the opportunity to pursue my dreams and education. I didn't even realize I was holding this inside, but talking to R. and getting it out brought a much needed relief. And of course crying always helps too! We prayed together and I feel so much better than yesterday's grumps! God does have good things for us and it will come just in time! I lose sight of that sometimes......

Grumpy

Grumpy is an apt description of how I'm feeling right now. My patience with people is thin and I just feel off today. Not sure why, really, except maybe monthly hormones. Grrrrrrr......... Alas, perhaps it's just Monday after a nice weekend that ended too soon. Sigh.

Various Laws of Nature....for laughs

Law of Mechanical Repair: After your hands become coated with grease, your nose will begin to itch or you'll have to pee.

Law of the Repair Person: When you take a malfunctioning product for repair, it will not duplicate the problem for the repair person. This is related to the Law of the Result.

Law of the Workshop: Any tool, when dropped, will roll or bounce to the least accessible location.

Law of Probability: The probability of being watched is directly proportional to the stupidity of your act.

Law of the Telephone: If you dial a wrong number, you never get a busy signal.

Law of the Alibi: If you tell the boss you were late for work because you had a flat tire, the very next morning you will have a flat tire.

Variation Law: If you change lines (or traffic lanes), the one you were in will start to move faster than the one you are in now (works every time).

Law of the Bath: When the body is fully immersed in water, the telephone rings.

Law of Close Encounters: The probability of meeting someone you know increases when you are with someone you with whom you don't want to be seen.

Law of the Result: When you try to demonstrate to someone that a machine won't work, it will.

Law of the Squeak: Products only make inappropriate noises when you don’t want them to. Related, but not limited to the Law of the Repair Person.

Law of Biomechanics: The severity of the itch is inversely proportional to the reach.

First Law of Events: At any event, the people whose seats are furthest from the aisle arrive last.

Second Law of Events: At an event, the people seated furthest from the aisle will more frequently need to get up for food, drinks and bathroom breaks.

Law of Coffee: As soon as you sit down to a cup of hot coffee, your boss will ask you to do something which will last until the coffee is cold.

Murphy's Law of Lockers: If there are only two people in a locker room, they will have adjacent lockers.

Law of Rugs/Carpets: The chances of an open-faced jelly sandwich landing face down on a floor are directly correlated to the value, newness and difficulty in cleaning the carpet.

Law of Spills: The messiness of the material spilled is inversely proportional to the value and difficulty in cleaning the surface on which it lands.

Law of Location: No matter where you go, there you are.

Law of Logical Argument: Anything is possible if you don't know what you are talking about.

Brown's Law: If the shoe fits, it's ugly.

Oliver's Law: A closed mouth gathers no feet.

Wilson's Law: As soon as you find a product that you really like, they will stop making it.

Law of the Sexes: There are two ways to handle an argument with a woman. Neither of them work.

Quick to Listen

Have you noticed that it seems like people don't listen very well? Part of my job in HR is to administer clerical testing for our clerical positions. It's always amazing to me when I can say something and the very next second they ask the question about what I have just told them; sometimes using the exact wording I used to explain it to them. What's the deal? Did I just not explain it clearly, or were they just not paying any attention? I wonder if I do this; ask a question immediately following the answer? Hmmmmmm..... Maybe that why Scripture tells us to be quick to listen and slow to speak. I wonder if it's a spiritual issue?............. Hmmmmmm....I don't know.

The Last of the Bar Projects

This was definitely the biggest project yet!! I forgot to take pictures before I took off the cupboard doors, but you get the idea of what it looked like before. Then R. helped me put in shelves inside for the DVD player and all that so it looks like a legitimate TV cabinet. No more stacking on top of the television!! Yay! I'm pretty proud of our work!!!

After

What?!? You've never heard of a balloon glow?

The 6th Annual Balloon Glow

Saturday night R. and I went to a balloon glow. Never heard of it? I hadn't either, but it was great fun!! The event was free. We watched them inflate the balloons and then they had a music presentation in which they lit the balloons in time with the music. It's really quite amazing all the muscle and sweat that goes into inflating one of those things! I was impressed!!

With a free Concert

Big Daddy Weave

And Glow They Did

...and we had a wonderful time!

To walk humbly

Humility has never been one of my strong points. In fact I'd say it's one of my biggest struggles. I like to be right and I don't appreciate being questioned or challenged. Needless to say, I've realized that even when someone is in the wrong in how they treat me, I'm still called to respond with humility because this is what the Lord requires and what honors Him. Dang! This is hard to swallow sometimes! Especially when I'm treated improperly or belittled! And yet, if this will bring pleasure to the Lord, that makes me want to try and to let Him change my heart. And I know I can trust Him to be faithful. Oh, but it's hard!!! My usual reaction is to get defensive and fight back, but the Lord is the one who defends me so I don't need to worry about myself. But I do. Hmmmmm.....Come Lord Jesus, please change this heart of mine.

With a thankful heart

I wrote earlier about God being true to His Word and His promise that if we seek Him first 'all these things will be added unto you'. We have felt that over the last few days in such a tangible way. First we recognized the change in our marriage. The fighting and arguing about silly things ceased and we found ourselves serving each other willingly without keeping a tally of our service and comparing with each other. Secondly we found ourselves inundated with invitations to be with others, in contrast to our previous feeling of isolation. On Sunday we went to Highland Baptist Church and the sermon spoke to us where we are. We went forward for prayer and were approached by a man we didn't know and invited to the small group he leads...they're studying the will of God and how to know His leading. Oh, and on a side note my car is running again. It was just a battery and Robert was able to change it himself. We're seeing God add unto us as week seek Him. But even more important, we're desiring the Lord and intimacy with Him in a way that we haven't for a long time. A passion to know Him deeply again.

Burning......

"My mountains" are on fire! Sniff, sniff. It's beautiful and sad all at the same time. Please do pray for rain in St. Ignatius so the fire will get put out!

True to His Word

R. and I had a blessed time visiting his family over the long weekend and we came home with new perspective. We've struggled to know what the Lord has for us and wondered why He seemed so silent In taking time away and talking and praying about it the answer was clear. We've been neglecting the Lord and focusing our attention everywhere except on Him. He has not been our first, second, or even third priority. We've been giving Him the leftovers. How could we expect to hear His voice when we haven't been listening or paying attention? We have renewed our evening devotions together and have been deliberate about personal time with the Lord and already see a change in our life. R. is more encouraged and we are meshing together and desiring to bless each other, instead of seeking for our own blessing.

"Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you." True to His Word, God has been adding to us as we seek Him first. I'm so thankful that even when I am faithless, He remains faithful.

Resting in His grace........

Brief Revival

Last night we used the jumper cables on Lucy, hoping that would be the end of her coma-like state. She fired to life and seemed to be running okay until I put the car in reverse...back to sleep. So we jumped her again and this time R. told me to take right off and head for the video store and he would be right behind me. So I left...only then remembering that my cell phone was charging in the living room.

I head for the store all the while looking for R. in my rear-view mirror; nope not there. I'm wondering what happened to him, feeling a little anxious about the fact that he's not there, I'm without a cell phone, and every time I roll up the window or turn on the radio, the headlights dim. Oh boy. Fifteen minutes later I pull into the video store parking lot; still no R. I drive around a few minutes and then decide to head home since I'm afraid to turn off the car.

I head on home and when I get to the highway, I switch on my brights. The car jerks like that was way too much energy extended, so I quickly turn it back to normal hoping I'll make it home 'cause it's dark and there's nothing but farm houses along this road. Wonderful. Still don't know where R. is. Thankfully I make it home, park the car, turn it off, made it. I try the key just to see if it will start again...deep coma-state. Yikes!

R. finally shows up. He went to the wrong video store. Oops! I guess that's what happens when one breaks routine! But, I made it home and he made it home. An unexpected little adventure to break up the week...phew!

Tomorrow we're off to R's parents until Wedesday. Happy Labor Day to all! Hope you don't have to labor!!! We'll be taking it easy!

Lucy is dying.....

Lucy hasn't been well the past couple months. It's most noticable in the mornings; it seems as if she just doesn't want to get going anymore. This morning, I couldn't wake her up at all. In case you're all really scared I should mention that Lucy is my car. And she didn't even make a sound this morning. Hopefully it's just the battery...hopefully just a quick and easy fix, or we might have to resign ourselves to one vehicle until our income status changes. Oh goody........
Please pray Lucy will get well soon!!! Smile!

Commenced

This morning we sent off our cousins to commence their new beginning and new life in South Texas. After many years of living far from them, this past year and a half has been a big blessing as we've gotten to spend time with T & A and support each other in similiar struggles and experiences. It was hard to see them go, knowing it will be harder to get together now, and yet there was the excitement that after many years of schooling and preparation they can now see some of the fruit of their hard work.

And it gives me hope that in time we will commence in our new beginning and new life, wherever that takes us. God is faithful...always and while it doesn't always seem like it on the outset, still His timing is perfect.

Rich blessings to you cousins in your new adventure together!!! May the Lord surround with His grace and bring into your path a community that you can share in, giving and receiving. Much love to you both!!!!!

True to the Challenge

It didn't take long for the opportunity to test out my challenge for honesty and authenticity. I'm heavy-hearted this morning. And, honestly, feeling a bit anxious about my sweet husband. He just hasn't been himself since the bar exam, a month ago. He's discouraged and seems to have lost hope.

Please pray that the Lord will draw him close to His heart and that R. will sense God's presence. Please pray for a job opportunity to open up that will be fulfilling, in an environment that's healthy. And please pray that we will love each other deeply in the midst of the struggles we're going through right now in this transitory time.

To All My Blogging Buddies and All Who Read Mine

I've been thinking...and that's often potentially dangerous, smile. But, I think it could be helpful, so I thought I'd share.

About blogging.....I love to blog and I love to read your blogs and catch up on what's happening in your lives. I've realized something, though, about blogging that is a problem. On a blog it's easy to pretend like life is great and everything is beautiful and to lie or deny that anything's wrong. Often this takes the form of only blogging when there's something positive going on. Not all of you have this problem and there has been many a time when I've read your blogs and been encouraged to know that I'm not the only one struggling; whether it's with discouragement, or job issues, or the future. But, for those of us who do have this problem, and I'm lumping myself in with that group, I'd like to make a challenge to us.

My challenge is that we be authentic. Not that we 'hang our dirty laundry out to dry' or anything like that, but that we be honest about life, whether good or bad. I think especially as Christians it's important that we are real and not pretenders.

As I write this I think about where we are right now. We're in transition. And transition can sometimes be frustrating. R. has particularly been struggling with discouragement as he waits for a job opportunity to open up, with no opportunity yet within our line of vision. (And when he's discouraged it often rubs off on me.) In the meantime we wait and keep waiting. Sometimes it feels like life has been put on hold and we're stuck in a place short of our goals and dreams.

Life is hard sometimes, and while the Lord is always faithful to uphold us and carry us through, that doesn't mean life is without problems and struggles. We need each other for support, but how can we give and receive that support if we're unaware of each other's struggles? Too often I forget this. Let's be committed to authenticity!! Let's give each other the opportunity to know the joy of ministering to each other! Let's not hide behind a facade anymore. I'm committing to being real, even if all I can say is 'please pray'.

Thankful for all of you! You are greatly appreciated and much loved!
Blessings!

5:30 isn't so bad.

Yay! I worked out this morning with one of my co-workers and it was great! The alarm went off at 5:30am and I was able to get right up and head to the gym before 6am. (thankfully I already packed everything I'd need last night) We met up and worked out for about an hour and then got ready and came to work! And it feels so good!!!

It's the little things sometimes that make a big difference. I've been wanting someone to work out with and have been wanting to work out in the morning, but knew that wouldn't happen without accountability. Finding someone to work out with hasn't been working out, let alone someone to work out with who also wanted to get up early to do it! And, the Lord provided in His faithfulness. Yay!

Return to Reality

Ah, vacation. It was great! My sweet sis came to visit and we had a wonderful time! After the first couple of days, I was even able to relax and not feel like I should be doing something! So, we slept in wondrously late, watched girlie movies, painted out toes, did a little shopping, and just generally enjoyed time together. By the way, we watched 'An Unfinished Life' with Robert Redford and JLo; great movie, really liked it! Overall, it was wonderful and I'm so thankful to have had that time with Surie. Thanks for coming, Sis!!
Here's a few fun pictures from the airport as Surie left to return home:

Vacation Time!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ah...the sigh of relief stemming from the wondrous fact that once this day is done, I have an entire week to relax and recover from the general frenzy of life!! It's vacation time! Oh, yes!

My sweet sis is flying down (minus a water bottle and her chapstick) to spend the week. I'm looking forward to the girlie time. Home spa treatment here we are!! And of course there's those movies that R. insists he cannot watch which we will be watching. And the lazing around in pajamas with hair unkempt. Yep, a true vacation.

But first, R. and I head to Houston for a job fair and excitedly a job interview for a firm in Fort Worth. Please pray the interview goes well and that the Lord gives clear guidance both for us and for those who are making the hiring selection. All very exciting and scary and wonderful!!!

I wish for all of you a fabulous week! 'Talk' to you soon!
May His grace overflow to you! Blessings!

Subtle Stray to Legalism

I've written before about the ladies Bible study I've been attending and what we've been studying about submission, etc. Well, this morning I had one of those light-bulb moments where I realized that I have strayed away from the freedom of walking in obedience to the legalism of rule keeping. I haven't wanted to work on my homework for the past couple of weeks and I've found myself resenting household tasks and have felt, overall, this burden of bearing too much responsibility.

This morning I awoke recalling the argument R. and I had last night and feeling like I was failing and would never be a good wife and be able to be all that I'm supposed to be. On my way to work I was praying and complaining to the Lord about not being able to do it all. It was then the lightbulb came on. I realized that I have taken the things I've read in a book as God's mandate for what I am to do and how I am to be as a wife, when they are simply the words of a woman of her own opinion. Nowhere does the Bible say that I am a bad wife if I don't have a full meal prepared every night for my husband! Loving, serving, respecting, and even submitting to R? Yes, God does call me to this and in this there is freedom. But a list of household chores that I am responsible for are not included. In that we have choices as a couple.

God seems more concerned about the principle and heart of submission and His order for the family. He doesn't give us a cookie-cutter mold about what marriage should look like with every couple, husband and wife, functioning in exactly the same way. This is when it becomes legalism, when rules are imposed and it becomes a religious duty and not a heart of love. Legalism produces quick results in the short-term, but over the long term it's only a changed heart, the work that God does, that will result in true obedience and freedom. Only in this can I be a "good" wife to R. and love him well.

Procrastinating the Simple

I'm greatly looking forward to next week and vacation along with a visit from my sis. Usually in preparation for guests I run around at a frantic pace dusting, picking up, and generally making a clean sweep of every nook and cranny. I've decided not to do that this time, but to take care of only the basics instead. After all, we keep a pretty clean house for the most part.

Last night, though, I did some laundry; a task I don't want to have to do during my week off. In the process I put away the clothes that have been hanging on the drying rack in our room for almost 3 weeks. It took all of maybe ten minutes to accomplish this task and I felt so great knowing they were put away. Why is it that I procrastinate those things they take such little time to do, but feel so good to have done? It's weird how life works that way sometimes! Alas, maybe next time I'll remember how little time it took and take care of it right away!!

Even the day to day

Each day to me should be more
than an obstacle to be gotten over,
a span of time to be endured,
a sequence of hours to be survived.
For me,
each day came forth from the hand of God
newly created and alive with opportunities to do His will….
We for our part
can accept and offer back to God
every prayer, work, and suffering of the day,
no matter how insignificant or unspectacular
they may seem to us….
Between God and the individual soul, however,
there are no insignificant moments;
this is the mystery of divine providence.

- Walter Ciszek

Fashionably Wrong

Last night I went out with a group of girlfriends and watched 'Devil Wears Prada'. I liked it. It was a fun movie and I really enjoy Anne Hathaway. Overall it was a good time. Still, leaving the theatre I found myself even more conscious than usual of my perceived lack of fashion. I envied the style and class displayed in the movie and wished I could afford to be so attired.

Then I remembered that the whole moral of the movie, really, was that none of that was important in the big picture, especially at the cost of relationships. So why do we put so much stock into fashion and how we or anyone else is dressed? I can have a bad day simply because I don't feel stylish or fashionable in what I'm wearing. Or I can feel really good about how I look...until I'm surrounded by others who look "better". Then there's the nearly unconcious practice of judging a stranger based soley on their dress and lack of fashion. How many people have I judged incompetent or stupid just because they dressed out of style, only to discover how mistaken I was?

This attitude goes against everything we find in Scripture about how God views us. The Bible says God doesn't judge as we do, because He looks at the condition of our hearts, not the designer label on our jeans. Then there's the place where God addresses women specifically, telling us that our beauty should not be reliant upon what we put on, but the gentleness of who we are in our character and our hearts. I feel convicted regarding my attitude about others and the ingratitude about what I have myself. I have not been functioning with God's heart. To put such emphasis on something so temporary...something that may not last through the year. Fashion is constantly changing. How to break free from this obsession. Lord, grant us your grace! Let us see as You see and not with the eyes of this flesh!

The Letdown

This has been the week after the big exam. One would think after anticipating the end of all the studying that the week would have a celebratory feel. But, for unknown reasons it has been more of a "man I'm so glad that's over...now what?" kind of week. The tired, cranky, listless, downer sort of week.

There's nothing standing between us and the next thing now and that's kinda scary. In a way it feels a little like I would imagine a remodel job to feel...if I was the house. "I'm so excited for the additional space, but man I thought I was a gonner when they knocked out my walls...still, the sunset was nice."

This morning was the "AH, I don't know what to wear! Nothing looks right, fits right, feels right...and I'm going to be late. Just get it together Mollie". All of this coming from me, of course, not my sweet husband. Then I chastise myself that I just need to get up earlier and be more responsible. Not the best way to start the day.

Just had to share

Happy Monday to all!! Just had to share this great pic of my sis and her boyfriend. Ya'll look adorable together! Blessings to you both!!

Bar None...Bar Done

Phew!! We finally made it!! After months of grueling study, R. has finished the last day of the Bar Examination. Overall R. has felt pretty confident about the whole thing and is ready to more on from here! AMEN!!

I'm so proud of my sweetheart and all his hard work! YOU ROCK, BABY!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thank you to all of you who prayed for him this week! We appreciate it so very much!!! We'll let you know when we hear the final results...but don't hold your breath 'cause they're not expected until November...sigh.

By the way, yesterday was our eighth month-a-versary! Marriage is superb and I married the sweetest man in the world!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

One Down, Two To Go

Thank you to all of you who are praying for R.! He's done with the first day, which is a half day, of the exam and although ready for a nap, feeling pretty confident about everything. He said he was able to readily recall all that he has studied! Praise the Lord!!! Please continue to pray for the next couple of full days!!!
Richest blessings to all!

The Big Week!!!!

This is the week of the Bar Exam!!! Please keep R. in prayer as he sits for this exam. He has worked so very diligently! Please pray he is able to recall all those facts he has learned and be able to write them in a timely and concise manner.

Way to go, R.!!!!!!!! You're my hero, sweetheart!

From the Journals of Jim Elliot

I sought song inside
but found a heart of brick unused to singing,
and the words came very slow. It seemed as if the gentle
pressure of the Father's finger
had caused a slight crevasse midst all the hardness,
and there, down deep, there bubbled up a quiet spring.
But still no song,
just risings which never reached above the surface.
And though there was no singing, somehow there was a
harmony not often heard among clattering temporalities.
LOVE was the keynote of the deep spring's song.
A major key that lent fullness to the pool.
Peace and joy chimed softly,
and other little recesses opened in the hardness,
and gentleness, born of the fractures of sorrow,
flowed unhindered to fill the rising pool.
And as the music played, the brick dissolved,
and my soul was happy, though there were still no words.

An update on Hudson

Thank you so much to all who have been praying for little Hudson and his surgery. He came through surgery fine and seems to be recovering well. Doctors removed a tumor the size of a potato, but were unable to remove all of it. The tumor is cancerous, though a treatment plan has not yet been determined. The Lord is working, though, and His work is good. Thanks for praying! Please continue!!!!

Tomorrow Hudson turns 1 year old........

Compared to........

At the ladies' Bible study I attend, our instructor said today that it is important that we don't compare ourselves with other people. She told us that we are all unique and come with our own struggles and short-comings and stories. This hit home with me because I find myself frequently comparing myself to others. If I'm feeling down and critical of myself, than I look at others and how their attitude is so much better or they're better wives or Christians or friends. Then in those times when I'm feeling pretty confident, or even when I'm excited about something the Lord is doing in my life, I tend to look at others and think how I'm better at doing something or have a better outlook or marriage or walk with the Lord. Neither is helpful at all.

If only I would remember that we all have something to offer to each other. We bring with us the life lessons and experiences we have known that we can share. Even those who are less intelligent or socially adapted have something to offer. The Bible says that a little child shall lead. How often I forget this and think that I'm better because I'm smart or outgoing. And in those times when I feel like I'm a hopelessly messed up case, even then I also have something to offer and something to share.

There is much to be learned in this walk of faith. Every time I think I've grasped hold of truth in an area, I become aware of how little I do know and understand and follow. Yet, even then God loves me and His patience is beyond my ability to comprehend. In this moment I'm so thankful for Christ and the grace He gives. With His help, perhaps one day I will learn to extend that grace to others and to myself.

At the end of said rope

A week from tomorrow R. takes the Bar Exam, the study of which has consumed both of us for the past three months. To be honest, it kinda feels like those three months were stolen from us. I just want my husband back; without the stress, without the strict time constraints. I feel selfish to be complaining about what I'm dealing with, knowing that he is working so very hard. But, I'm realizing how much I am affected by what he's going through.

Yesterday morning I cracked and hurt R's feelings in the process. Why did I do that? Why now, when the long dark tunnel finally has the glimmer of daylight? Needless to say, I'm more than a little disappointed with myself. I've been trying so hard to be strong and be an encourager to him. Sigh. Thankfully today is a new day and R. has forgiven me.

Please keep us both in prayer as we wrap up the studies and the waiting. Pray that I won't hold resentment in my heart about lost time. And most importantly, please pray R. nails the exam to the wall and for his confidence and continued perseverance as he finishes.

Hudson Taylor

Hudson Taylor was the first missionary to the interior of China and founder of the China Inland Mission. He learned to trust the Lord for everything and paved a path for others to come share the Gospel in China.

Today another by the name of Hudson Taylor is in need of prayer. Little Hudson is less than a year old and awaiting surgery for a cancerous tumor at the base of his spine. Please pray for him and his family.

Never a dull moment

So, when God says relating to others is like iron sharpening iron, I wonder if the code phrase for that is 'customer service'. People are unbelievable sometimes and it's amazing how many are worried that someone else got it easier than them! "Well so and so came in and they only had to...blah, blah, blah, blah."

I mentioned to a co-worker that sometimes I think the perfect job would be one that didn't involve customer service. She said that she has found that serving customers sharpens her, like iron sharpening iron. Well, it's never dull, I'll say that!

Then I think about myself when I'm in the role of the customer. Do I annoy and/or frustrate those who are waiting on me? Do I ask the same question that the last 50 people have asked and it's way old? Do I present an attitude that tells that person I know better how to do their job? Hmmmmmm....I think I need to be a little more patient 'cause I'm pretty sure I've done the very things that bother me. What's new, though?!? Smile.

15 Days

In 15 days R. will sit for the Bar Exam. He has been so very diligent to study, putting in 10 or 12 hours every day. I'm soooooooooo proud of him. Please keep him in prayer the next couple weeks as the 3-day exam approaches. Please pray he'll finish strong and pass with flying colors!!
You're almost there, Baby!!!!

Merciful Struggle.....

R. and I have been taking a break from church the past few weeks; taking time to heal. We had a really bad experience a few months ago involving false doctrine. We felt betrayed by the whole ordeal and the wounds aren't totally healed. As a result we're finding it hard to move on and trust again. So we're taking some time for that.

Recently I talked to a friend about our experience and she told me that I need to ask the Lord why I've had so many negative and hurtful church experiences. I don't think I've ever really contemplated that it might have a purpose. It happened and that was that. But, I've started to ask God to show me what He wants to teach me through it.

This passage from Psalms ministered to me and opened up an avenue of contemplation about the 'why' of it all. "I know, O LORD, that your laws are righteous, and in faithfulness you have afflicted me. May your unfailing love be my comfort, according to your promise to your servant. Let your compassion come to me that I may live, for your law is my delight." Psalm 119:75-77

What if God allowed, or let's say even caused, these hurts and disappointments and betrayals? And if so, why would He allow or cause these things? Perhaps these struggles are necessary to drive me to God. Maybe if life was absent these struggles I would live my life without Him, thinking I don't need Him.

In his book 'The Journey of Desire', John Eldredge writes, "living apart from God comes naturally. God must take away the heaven we create, or it will become our hell....I realized that the real issue is this: I haven't wanted to be an eternal person. I've wanted to find life here somehow." I think this is true of me as well. I have an expectation for present happiness and satisfaction. Possibly this is the way I have approached church also. Maybe I'm looking to have a need met through church that only God can meet through Himself. Thus I'm crushed when those needs are left unmet.

There's much more to learn, I'm sure, but it's a start. Please pray the Lord will heal those wounded places in me. In the coming weeks we plan to begin the search for a church to call our own. Quite honestly I'm petrified to start again. I fear more hurt and disappointment, yet I know that I need to belong with a body of believers.

Anticipating the Unknown

R. received a GLOWING recommendation today from one of his professors for a job opening. I'm so proud of him and all his hard work. I find myself wondering what the next step is for us. Where R. will get a job, where we'll be living, if we'll remain here or move on somewhere else. The anticipation of...it...is kind of overwhelming at times, and yet there's the deep abiding peace that God knows and will open the right door for us. It's an exciting time! Now more than any other time in my life, the thought of all that will happen between now and this time next year is HUGE. Life is an adventure! Yahoo!

Seven

Seven months of marriage! I can't believe how quickly the time flies by. Marriage is wonderful! I'm so very thankful for my sweet husband! I recall those times when I would see others getting married and wonder if there was someone out there for me, someone wonderful and amazing. R. exceeds all my hopes, dreams, and desires. If I had known what kind of man God had for me, perhaps I would have prayed with more faith and less anxiety! Thank you, Lord, for my husband!!!! Thank you, R. for being a man of God and for loving me well! I love you, sweetheart!!!!!!!

Houseguest

R. and I were in the guest bedroom last night hanging out. I was sorting pictures on the computer while R. chilled for a bit. There we were, minding our own business, thinking we were the only ones there. For some reason I looked up and low and behold, an intruder. We have a gecko! Living in our house...somewhere. He never moved all the while we were in the guest room, but this morning he was nowhere to be found. We're calling him "Skinny". R. came up with that one. It's better than a cockroach, though it is rather startling to think he could reappear at any moment and take us by surprise. The south is a strange new land, but the creatures don't seem too dangerous!

Bar Projects

Not the drinking kind of Bar, but the exam kind of Bar. While R. studies...all the time...(Smile, he's so diligent!) I've been keeping myself occupied with a few projects around the house. I have to say I'm quite proud of myself. I don't really know what I'm doing, but somehow the projects are turning out quite nicely. Our living room is looking classy!! Check out the before and after pictures! Sweet!

Before...

Finished Product

Sweet Action!!!

Relationship Status: TAKEN

I'm so beyond excited!!! My sweet sister has a sweet boyfriend!!! It all happened rather out of the blue. Just goes to show that tomorrow or today could bring the answer to what we've been praying and hoping for. It's a good reminder to trust that God is working on our behalf even when we don't see Him.

I'm proud of you, Sis! I'm proud that you've never dated before but have waited for God to orchestrate something for you! Thanks for being faithful! You rock.

Papa Roach

I think that's the name of a music band. Well, I met Papa Roach last night. Not the music band. He was quite eager to meet me, too! It was going on 10 o'clock. I went upstairs to get ready for bed and as I walked into the bathroom something jumped at me from the wall above the mirror. That something was the biggest cockroach I have ever seen! Yuck! I jumped and raced out of the room to yell for R. He came upstairs and went into the bathroom. "Oh my gOSH...thump, thump. Yuck." Dead Papa Roach. I promptly announced that we would have to move...north!

Needless to say, bedtime was out of the question after that little fiasco! My heart was still beating hard so I stayed up reading a bit longer until I calmed down. Things are not supposed to fly at you from the bathroom wall. It's not natural! And cockroaches are not supposed to be 3 to 4 inches long. That's not natural either! Yuck!

In spite of my adventure I managed to get a good night's sleep. Though I did check the walls in the bathroom this morning. It's wild down here! Smile.

Praise the Lord!

Well, Grandpa had his surgery on Friday and has already been released from the hospital! God is faithful! We weren't ready to let him go yet! He and Grandma are convalescing in the nursing home until Grandpa is fully recovered and they can return to their apartment. Thank you for all your prayers on his and our behalf! Blessings and Love!

Bible Study

I've been attending this Bible study at work for married women. We're studying the book "Created to be His Help Meet" by Debi Pearl. It's definitely not for the faint of heart. Pearl is pretty blunt about how we women have usurped the role God has give to our husbands and have tried to control instead of submitting to his leadership. It's been convicting and exciting as I've watched the Lord soften my heart. I've learned that submission is really about trust. Do I trust R. to care about me and to make wise decisions? Do I trust God to care for me even when R. makes mistakes? Trust has always been something I've struggled with and letting R. be the man has been huge in teaching me how to trust. And I have so much more peace in my heart when I'm not trying to control. I can't believe how much it's made me relax! I'm so thankful to be learning this in the early stage of my marriage rather than years down the road. God is faithful and He is certainly the one who changes our hearts. And it's great to watch Him do it!!!!

A Prayer Request

I'm requesting prayer from all of you for my Grandpa. He's been having some health troubles that have caused him to pass out a couple times in the last week. The doctor's think it's heart related and have been running some tests to determine what needs to be done. Please pray for his healing and for encouragement for him. Also, please lift up my parents as they deal with this as well as my Dad's injured shoulder and resulting unemployment. It's a lot right now.

On a happier note, I have to say how thankful I am for my sweet husband. He brought a cheesecake to the office for me and all my co-workers just as a pick me up for the stress at work and in our personal lives. Sometimes I can't believe how very blessed I am by the man God has given me. He's so thoughtful and considerate. I'm a blessed woman, indeed! Thank you, sweet love!!!!!

Job Woes

The past couple weeks work has been kind of a bummer. A co-worker returned after maternity leave and the dynamics changed. What I thought was a blossoming friendship with another co-worker has wilted before coming to bloom. "They" have become exclusive again and my partner A. and I feel like we're on the outside. Then there's the bosses. Can I say roller-coaster? It's impossible to tell from one moment to the next whether they'll be up, down, or something else. Stressed usually describes them, it's just a question of what that will look like to the rest of us.

Now don't get me wrong. I have some INCREDIBLE co-workers. It's just that lately some of those I have to work with directly are really a pain, or taking their stress out on A. and me. Needless to say, I'm wrestling with my attitude. I simply don't want to be here anymore and yet I don't have a choice at this point. That's the hardest part...not having a choice and feeling stuck.

Please pray that the Lord will help me to rise above the petty attitudes and mood swings. I really want to do my job well and to finish strong and not have things peeter out as my time here comes to a close. It's temporary (though I don't know when it will end), so I want to remain joyful in spite of the frustrations. Thanks!

It's all about me....

I think I'm starting to realize that I'm always going to encounter people who think they're better than me, or smarter than me, or cooler than me, or more mature than me. And that condescending attitude is annoying. However, it's not likely to change, so it's up to me to change. I'm letting other people control me when I react to their attitude and actions. Of course, now, knowing this and learning not to let them bother me are two very different things. But, I guess instead of focusing on what other people do that I have no control over, I can turn my attention instead to my response to them which I can control. Almost sounds like mind over matter.... Smile. Well, Happy Friday everyone!

Forever Young

I'm told that one day I will come to appreciate the fact that I look young for my age, but I have yet to see the benefits. (I should apologize for the fact that this will most likely be nothing more than a vent. ARGH!) I'm so tired of being treated as if I don't know what I'm doing simply because I look young!!!!!!! I'm frustrated with the condescending tone, the furtive glances looking for someone else to assist them, being questioned when I tell someone the procedure, told how to do something I've done a thousand times. What is it that makes people act this way? It takes twice as much effort trying to prove my competence rather than just being competent. I'm sure I should probably learn to just let it go, but it's hard when it happens repeatedly. Does anybody else feel this way????? AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!

For the birds

I arrived to work this morning to the sound of all sorts of birds echoing across the parking lot. The funny thing is, it's an electronic bird sound. No, it's not meant for pleasure or even ambiance, it's to scare away the gackles. Birds fly south, right? And they have to go somewhere, right? Well, they picked Texas. They flock everywhere and leave their evidence on cars and anything else that happens to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. So, they put in an electric bird sound to scare them off. One bird sounds very much like a falcon out of a creepy movie. All authentic, mind you. Smile.

All things considered, though, I've come to love this hot place. I never thought I'd enjoy Texas, let alone come to love it, but I do. I love the heat that wraps around me like a cozy blanket, the humidity that refreshes my skin like a soothing cloth, the homey sound of crickets chirping (as long as they're outside), the trees with branches reaching to the ground and spread wide. I love the rumble of thunder and the lightning that rips across the sky and the sound of the rain beating on the roof. I love it. And I love that I share this home in this place with my sweet husband. The Lord has blessed me greatly and I feel content.