tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-314703692024-02-19T05:51:09.879-08:00Random MusingsChristy Giardinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16742094671676441308noreply@blogger.comBlogger175125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-64858188324138181702024-01-22T09:52:00.000-08:002024-01-22T09:52:16.295-08:00Check On Those Around You<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwhXNG94Rm3NIAu_IEFLBWVAbKRKKwOoIKjnXz_-DIVu3PzWrhxA_hm2mNd_exhOsZItqlomp9h8x5_dQnpJX6t1jWSusQggWzZwmxvREMBpWcPgZaqy4eYnmEQJqSdlbEv2jP6sPtUeEXl3Lft-6qM82JIMcbMACdm-WglgPMyKiDzkLBr9IOnw/s1080/how%20are%20you%20feeling.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwhXNG94Rm3NIAu_IEFLBWVAbKRKKwOoIKjnXz_-DIVu3PzWrhxA_hm2mNd_exhOsZItqlomp9h8x5_dQnpJX6t1jWSusQggWzZwmxvREMBpWcPgZaqy4eYnmEQJqSdlbEv2jP6sPtUeEXl3Lft-6qM82JIMcbMACdm-WglgPMyKiDzkLBr9IOnw/s320/how%20are%20you%20feeling.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span> It's been a very long time since I've written anything on my personal blog. I hope to find time again for journaling here. I'm making the time today because I've had a number of conversations lately about mental health. I've come across an artist I'd like to share more about later who is speaking in an authentic way about deep things. But, today, I just want to drop this quick video here that has stirred my heart every time I've seen it. </span><br /></p><p><span>Keep checking in on your friends, family, and those around you. Some signs are harder to see than others. An awareness of those around us and when we see any significant changes can help us all be and do better.</span></p><p><br /><span><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="334" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tX8TgVR33KM" width="548" youtube-src-id="tX8TgVR33KM"></iframe></div><p></p>Christy Giardinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16742094671676441308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-11277600373124354772013-06-03T06:39:00.000-07:002013-06-03T06:50:30.846-07:00My GiftThis week has been full of overwhelming comprehension of the goodness of God. More than once this week, I've had to pinch myself to make sure I'm not dreaming. If I'm honest, I've been pinching myself for well over a year. I am living out my heart's desire and it is so beautiful. God's faithfulness is being proven to me over and over with each new day. <br />
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I am a believer, a dreamer of dreams. I know that the Lord has promised certain things to me and I've worked hard to be obedient to His calling. It hasn't always made sense to me. Sometimes I've had to leap into the darkness with no idea of what might break my fall. It's been lonely and scary at times. And, there have been moments when I wanted to give up hope and stop believing in dreams. But, the Lord is faithful and He loves His children. All good and perfect gifts come down from Heaven.<br />
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In less than five weeks, I will join hands with the man of my dreams and become his wife. He is the living, breathing fulfillment of God's promise to me, a desire planted deeply within my heart. I have prayed and waited for this day for so long, it hardly seems possible that it will be here so soon. And, the man I will marry is so much more than I could have ever hoped for in a husband.<br />
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He loves the Lord. He has been a believer since he was a child, but in the last ten years, he has fought hard to know who God is and how he is called to follow. He worships and serves the Lord with gladness and his whole heart. It's the most beautiful thing to me.<br />
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He loves me. I know this as much as I know my own name. He loves me and he tells and shows me often. He puts my needs before his own. He protects me and fights for me. He knows me and tenderly serves me. It's humbling. It's delightful.<br />
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He honors me. I catch him talking about me sometimes and I'm astounded. He honors me so well. He works hard to show me honor in the way he blesses me, but he always speaks of me with high regard and love. And, he always points to the Lord and how gracious He has been to us. It warms my heart each and every time.<br />
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This man that I love is truly a gift from God. He is intelligent (much smarter than me!) and he is excellent in his work. He works hard, even when he is not valued or appreciated, because it is the right thing to do. He is sought after for his knowledge and his work ethic. He solves problems and finds solutions (his name can be found multiple times in the U.S. Patent rolls!). He makes a way where others say it can't be done. <br />
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And, he loves to serve. He is always thinking of ways we can help people. He is good with his hands and all things mechanical, so he uses those gifts to help wherever he can. He loves it. He loves to teach others how to help themselves. I pray the Lord blesses us with children some day, because he will be an amazing and kind father.<br />
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Nick, you bless me far beyond these words can describe. I am so grateful for you and so humbled that the Lord has chosen this path for us. Thank you for being the fulfillment of the desires the Lord has planted in my heart, and for being far more than I had hoped or dreamed. Thank you for giving me a new dream and something new to wish. I'm so excited to begin this new journey with you. I can't imagine walking this road with anyone else. I love you.<br />
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Happy Birthday! May it be the best year yet!<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-14095189053982237002013-05-30T20:47:00.000-07:002013-05-30T20:48:07.422-07:00Birthday Blessings "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life." - Proverbs 13:12<br />
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For so many years, I held onto a hope that seemed impossible. I knew that the Lord had something amazing waiting for me, but I just had to stand in obedience until He brought it to fruition. It is true that "He [makes] all things beautiful in His time" (Ecclesiastes 3:11), but it is sometimes so difficult for us. Our bodies long and yearn for the fulfillment of our hopes and dreams. We become heart sick when it seems like we'll never receive the promise. We ache for what we do not know.</div>
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But, then something beautiful happens...God comes through for us. The joy that is found on that morning is beyond compare. This year has been a year of desires fulfilled. I am reveling in the goodness of a Father who would see fit to give me all of these good things. It's amazing. It's humbling. It's more than I dared to dream.</div>
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I began this year with <a href="http://christysolly.blogspot.com/2013/01/our-perfect-day.html" target="_blank">a perfect day</a>, and have been experiencing joy like I've never known. Today was another of those days.</div>
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In order for you to understand the meaning of the gift I received today, I need to give a little bit of the back story. In many Christian traditions, it is customary for a teenage girl to receive a purity or promise ring as a symbol of a commitment to remain pure until marriage. When I was 16, my parents gave me a purity ring. promised to wear it and honor its meaning until the day my future husband replaced it with another ring. The night Nick and I were engaged, I sent this picture to my parents and told them I'd kept my promise.</div>
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My hope has long been that I would melt the gold from my ring to make my husband's wedding band. So, a couple of weeks ago, Nick and I visited <a href="https://plus.google.com/100841237891217056761/about?gl=us&hl=en" target="_blank">our family jeweler</a> and designed his wedding band. I left my ring to be transformed into a wedding band for my future husband. I can't wait to give him that band on our wedding day! </div>
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Although we were able to use the gold, I was left with a solitary diamond. We talked about possible uses for it and ways that we could feature the meaning of the ring from which it came. But, with all of the other wedding plans, the timing didn't seem wise to spend more money on jewelry. When we returned to Chicago, the diamond was placed in the safe to be used another time.</div>
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Because of all of the focus on the upcoming wedding in July, Nick and I have decided to keep things simple for our birthdays. Or so I thought...</div>
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This man with which the Lord has blessed me honors me so very well. It is really so humbling. He took me to dinner tonight for my birthday and told me he had a surprise. He said that he was able to share our story several times in the last 24 hours and bless people with what God had done for us. As we waited for our meal, he slid a box with familiar bronze wrapping paper over to me. When I opened the box, I saw the most beautiful necklace! He had worked with a jeweler at <a href="http://www.jared.com/" target="_blank">Jared's</a> to custom design a pendant featuring my diamond. (It is actually reminiscent of the first necklace he ever bought for me). It is gorgeous and full of deep meaning and sentiment for us. A perfect gift! </div>
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He shared with me that our story had served to inspire everyone at the jeweler. When he came into the store, people wanted to hear the details of what God has done and how Nick has worked to honor our miracle. I absolutely love the heart of this man! He takes such great joy in pointing towards the Lord and making sure to give Him glory when he can. I can't believe how gracious the Lord has been to us!</div>
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The sweetest moment of the night came for me when it was time to blow out my birthday candle. For the first time, since I don't know when, I didn't know how to wish. For years, every time I had the opportunity to wish for something, my heart wished for this. Even when it seemed impossible, my heart held onto hope and wished for the fulfillment of this dream. My eyes filled with tears as I realized that I was right in the middle of seeing God fulfill my heart's desires. "...A desire fulfilled is a tree of life". I can definitely say that I am drinking deeply of that cup. My soul is resonating, to its very core, with the truth that God does come through for us, in His time. And, it's beyond what we can hope or imagine.</div>
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We share our story to share our hope. We know that the Lord is good and He wants good things for us. We have walked through times of longing, not knowing what God had in store. So, as we stand on this mountain top, we want to drink it in. This is definitely a year of blessing for us; a year of desires fulfilled. I am so grateful to all of those who are walking with us on this journey. We love you and can't wait to share more of God's goodness.</div>
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I can't wait to see what He has in store and the new dreams He will plant in our hearts. </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-70012148160901079442013-03-29T20:08:00.002-07:002013-03-29T20:08:58.314-07:00Changed for GoodOne of the hardest things for me to process, in my life, is the changing nature of relationships. I love my friends and family fiercely and it's difficult for me when life takes us separate ways. I've rarely parted ways with someone on bad terms, but sadly, I have had to walk that road at times. Whether amicable or antagonistic, it's always a little heart-breaking to accept when a relationship is ended or dramatically altered.<div>
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I've been thinking about this truth a great deal in the last few months. I think I'm beginning to find a way to make peace with relationships that aren't what they once were, and those that aren't what I thought they were.</div>
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I wonder how other people embrace this inevitable ebb and flow of life. I love to gain wisdom from the experiences of others. If anyone has any wisdom to share, I'm happy to hear it.</div>
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Right now, this song keeps echoing in my mind:</div>
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OkSu3N5p8cs" target="_blank">For Good</a></div>
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<i>from Wicked</i></div>
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I'm limited. Just look at me. I'm limited</div>
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And look at you, you can do all I couldn't do, Glenda.</div>
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Now it's up to you for both of us.</div>
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Now it's up to you.</div>
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I've heard it said that people come into our lives for a reason</div>
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bringing something we must learn</div>
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And we are lead to those who help us most to grow</div>
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if we let them and we help them in return.</div>
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Now, I don't know if I believe that's true</div>
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but I know I'm who I am today because I knew you.</div>
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Like a comet pulled from orbit as it passes a sun</div>
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Like stream that meets a boulder halfway through a wood</div>
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Who can say if I've been changed for the better?</div>
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Because I knew you, I have been changed for good.</div>
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It well may be that we may never meet again in this lifetime</div>
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So, let me say before we part</div>
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So much of me is made from what I've learned from you</div>
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You'll be with me, like a handprint on my heart</div>
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And whatever way our story ends</div>
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I know you have re-written mine by being my friend</div>
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Like a ship blown from its mooring by a wind off the sea</div>
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Like a seed dropped by a sky-bird in a distant wood</div>
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Who can say if I've been changed for the better?</div>
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But, because I knew you I have been changed for good.</div>
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And just to clear the air I ask forgiveness for all the things you blame me for</div>
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But, then again we know there's blame to share</div>
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And none of it seems to matter anymore</div>
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Like a comet pulled from orbit as it passes a sun</div>
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Like a stream that meets a boulder halfway through a wood</div>
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Who can say if I've been changed for the better?</div>
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I do believe I have been changed for the better.</div>
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Because I knew you</div>
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Because I knew you</div>
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Because I knew you </div>
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I have been changed for good.</div>
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The truth is that everyone we meet helps change, shape and refine us. So, for all of the relationships I have and have lost, I know I have been changed for good.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-32451856124177010732013-01-05T11:27:00.001-08:002013-01-12T22:55:46.703-08:00Our Perfect Day<em>"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of heavenly lights..." James 1:17</em><br />
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I've heard it said that, "Once in a while, in the middle of an ordinary life, love gives us a fairytale". On December 31st, 2012, the Lord gave me a good and perfect gift. Nick Giardino, the love of my life, planned a perfect day and the Lord surrounded and protected it with love and beauty.<br />
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The entire day was a surprise adventure for me. Nick planned everything with great love and attention to detail. I met him at his house that morning and we set off for a day I'll never forget. It was beautiful to be able to rest and trust in him to lead me through the day.<br />
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The Lord gave us beautiful little moments and gifts throughout the day. As we started on the journey, Nick said we needed to listen to some love songs. He had a soundtrack for the day! As he pulled it up on shuffle (it was in order for a different part of the journey), the first song that came on was our song! We listened through some beautiful love songs and talked as we headed towards our first destination.<br />
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As we were driving down the highway, I noticed that we were passing the Chicago Botanic Gardens. I made a mental note to tell Nick we should go there some day. But, just as I was thinking that, he quickly turned the car into the entrance! He had set the GPS to make me think we still had miles to go. He had told me we were going to a new cafe that we'd never tried, so I was completely surprised to learn that the cafe was at the Botanic Gardens!<br />
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As we arrived and began to walk around, he told me that he wanted to take me somewhere beautiful. He told me that I was the most beautiful person he knew and the gardens were the most beautiful place he could think to bring me. It was beautiful and peaceful, all covered in snow and ice. We walked around and talked of God's creativity. I love Nick's heart. He kept marveling in the wonder of God's creation. As humans, it takes us great effort, time and energy to create something truly beautiful. Few people ever really do manage that. But, yet, the Lord breathed all of this into existence! How great is our God? We spent several hours surrounded by the wonder of His creation.<br />
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After walking through the green houses, we found our way to a beautiful and peaceful spot by a lake. Everything was covered in white. Off to the right, there was a bell tower. We took in the moment and talked a little about music.<br />
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Nick said to me, "Since we are talking about music, I have a gift to give you". (First, however, he reached into his pocket and handed me a packet of tissues with my initial on it. Very thoughtful). He reached into his backpack and presented me with a lovely box.</div>
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I was surprised by the gift! I had a suspicion that I might receive a different kind of box on that day, but this was completely unexpected. So, with great curiosity, I opened it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidwDlDPnu_3Kqacaq0caX9_3_o_e4p4IvgCQzz1FBgva9xWN9hjjSaWflXHLs2mef21VIyFEf7Yr77WPGl_Za_yXWZPmu52GmeGZkBe8JTC76bU78u0y_0R5MuQ_9AubvS1IEk9A/s1600/The+Story+006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidwDlDPnu_3Kqacaq0caX9_3_o_e4p4IvgCQzz1FBgva9xWN9hjjSaWflXHLs2mef21VIyFEf7Yr77WPGl_Za_yXWZPmu52GmeGZkBe8JTC76bU78u0y_0R5MuQ_9AubvS1IEk9A/s320/The+Story+006.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Inside the box was a Pandora bracelet! Before I had time to ask any questions, he presented me with another box.<br />
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Inside the second box was a beautiful music note charm for the bracelet. He told me that he wanted to bring me somewhere beautiful and give me something to mark our beginnings. With extreme thoughtfulness, he planned our day to reflect our journey. The charm was meant to represent something about our story as well as remind me of the day. I can't believe how carefully he planned this! Our journey began 18 years ago at Landmark. We spent countless hours together in band, on band trips and celebrating our love of music. We both have a deep love for music and it has woven a thread through our story. Remember the soundtrack on the drive? It was all crafted to weave these moments together perfectly. (I must also note that he meticulously wrapped all of the boxes. I thought they were professionally wrapped!)<br />
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After lunch and a tour through an amazing train exhibit, we headed to our next destination. This man, who loves me so well, managed every detail of the day. We had a long drive before our next stop, and this was intentional in his plan. </div>
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We arrived at Navy Pier and the Lord gave us another little gift. We tried parking in the deck and drove slowly to the top with no success. There were several cars ahead of us and no one could find a spot. As we started heading down, the parking security guard stopped us, told us to turn around and he would park us. We quickly followed his order and he gave us a premium spot in a no parking zone. We were able to continue on our perfectly timed day.</div>
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When we arrived at Navy Pier, Nick gave me another charm for my bracelet.</div>
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The clock was to represent the time in our journey. In fact, in another fingerprint of God, our drive was suddenly detoured due to traffic about half way to Navy Pier. As I reflected on the day, I realized that the Lord was helping Nick's plan along. Our journey has been long, but it has also had stops, starts and detours. And, so our day experienced a touch of the same.</div>
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Once at Navy Pier, the plan was to visit Winter Fest. It was a beautiful explosion of Christmas wonder, complete with an enormous tree, an indoor ice skating rink and an amazing amount of fun.</div>
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And, because he knows me so well, he planned for my favorite Chicago snack...Garrett's Popcorn!</div>
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We took a moment to stop and enjoy some time together (and amazing Chicago mix popcorn) and Nick gave me another box!</div>
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The snowflake bead was intended to represent Winter Fest and Chicago winters. We have spent several New Year's Eve Nights in the city. And, it's very cold here! The Heart bead is a spacer bead (so you will see more of them), but it is intended to show his love for me. Throughout the day, he just kept telling me that I needed to know how much I was loved - how much he loved me. So, all of the hearts represent the best thing of all!</div>
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We spent some time at Navy Pier and he told me that the next place wasn't as crowded and would be just for the two of us. But, he was a little nervous because they didn't take reservations on New Year's Eve. He was hopeful that it would work out. We should have known that it would be perfect, because this day was a perfect gift from the Lord for both of us!</div>
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We drove into the city, parked the car and walked to a corner near the Chicago Water Tower. And, to my surprise, there waited a horse drawn carriage! Anyone who knows me knows that I love fairy tales, princesses and all of the things that come with them. I have never been treated more like a princess than I was on this perfect day! He made the arrangements and we got into the carriage. The driver informed us that her name was Corrie and our horse's name was Fiona! Yet, another little kiss from the Lord, giving us a horse with a princess' name!</div>
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If you can see, in this picture, there is a ring on my left hand. That ring was given to me by my parents when I turned 16. The ring represents my promise to remain pure before the Lord and for my husband until my wedding day. As it became clear that this day was leading to something amazing, I sent a message to my Dad. I said, "I've kept my promise and I will until we're married, but if it's OK with you, I'm hoping to trade this ring for one carrying a different promise tonight". It was a really beautiful moment for me and my Dad. Nick had already taken great care to ask my Dad's permission and blessing to marry me, but I wanted to honor them as well by wearing that ring on that day (and be able to hold true to its promise).<br />
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While we were on the carriage ride, Nick gave me another bead for my bracelet.<br />
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A Cinderella carriage!!! I really did feel like Cinderella that night! Nick knows that I have a soft spot for fairy tales and Cinderella has always been my favorite. He absolutely gave me a magical day! <br />
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After our carriage ride, we stopped and had hot chocolate at the Ghirardelli store. He had planned for more time in the carriage, but they do not let the carriage on Michigan Avenue until 7pm. So, we had a few minutes to spare. As we were enjoying our hot chocolate and each other's company, we saw a fancy horse and carriage drive by!<br />
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His name was Socks and he just knew he was royalty! We followed him and his driver Christine to their stop and took a ride down Michigan Avenue - the Magnificent Mile!<br />
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While we enjoyed the Christmas lights on this carriage ride, Nick gave me yet another bead for my bracelet! I was surprised because I'd already gotten the bead to represent the carriage ride! This man loves me so well!</div>
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He gave me a Christmas tree bead to represent the lights we saw on the carriage ride. Also, he knows that I really love Christmas and one of my favorite things was buying our Christmas tree together. We took great care, this year, in decorating his house for Christmas and he reflected that in our perfect day.<br />
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Once the carriage ride was over, it was time for our dinner reservation. We drove to our hotel, the Fairmont Chicago. He checked us into the hotel, took our bags upstairs, and then we went to dinner at Aria. (Note: musical term!)<br />
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As our courses began to arrive, he took my hand and blessed the food. Once he had finished praying, he gave me another box!<br />
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He told me that he wanted to give me this bead at the beginning because our story is not possible without the Lord. He has been SO gracious to us! He chose to give it to me later in the evening because of the placement on the bracelet, but, in truth, our story is built on a foundation of grace and mercy from our heavenly Father.<br />
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Once we had finished with dinner, it was time to go upstairs. He told me that he needed to go into the room for a moment. When he came back, he said, "It's not what you think right now". I simply trusted him and walked into the room. The sight that greeted me truly took my breath away.<br />
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It was simply amazing! His parents had secretly helped him with his plan! They arranged the room so perfectly while we were in the city. There were 18 dozen roses beautifully arranged in vases set around the room (1 for each year that we have known each other). There were princess touches everywhere! There were candles, strands of pearls, crystals, and even glass slippers! The walkway was peppered with rose petals and lead me to the table where another box rested upon Nick's Bible. He asked me to open it.<br />
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As I looked at a bead representing a ring bearer's pillow holding rings, he said, "What's in that one?" As I turned to him, tears already streaming down my face, he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him! In his hand was another box with a different treasure.</div>
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Isn't it beautiful!?! There are so many stories that accompany this ring. When he was shopping for it, he wanted to find the perfect ring for me. He studied so much about diamonds and what makes them perfect. He learned that Tolkowski (of Tolkowski diamond fame) was actually a mathematician. He discovered new ways to cut and design diamonds so that they would reflect light perfectly. Nick searched through thousands of diamonds and hundreds of settings. He found a diamond that is almost mathematically perfect! I love that my engineer has such a big piece of himself in the ring he placed on my hand! It's perfect for us!</div>
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Of course, I answered, "YES!" to his question and we both celebrated the moment. It was absolutely amazing! But, I also had a surprise for him! I asked him if it would be OK if I gave him something. (He was on quite the roll and I wanted to make sure I wasn't interrupting his plan!).</div>
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A few weeks before Christmas, we had been talking about what we would give one another for Christmas. He mentioned a few things and then surprised me by saying he thought he might like a promise ring. I'm so glad he said that! I started the search. There's a jewelry company that I love called <a href="http://www.remembermejewelry.com/" target="_blank">Remember Me Jewelry</a>. The designer puts great care and thought into each piece. They are meant to tell a story. I found a ring called "A Man After God's Own Heart". It's perfect for our story! Nick loves the Lord and loves me and honors us both really well. I wanted to give him something that reflected that.</div>
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He accepted my ring as a promise to make him my husband! At this point, it was nearing the midnight hour and he wanted us to watch the fireworks. But, from our suite, we weren't sure we were going to be able to see them. As we welcomed the new year, as an engaged couple, we heard the fireworks begin. We ran to the windows and found that we were able to see the fireworks just over a building by Lake Michigan!<br />
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Nick was so excited! It was the final piece of the puzzle and he had been afraid it wouldn't come through for us. He rushed into the other room, grabbed the champagne and poured a toast for us. As we welcomed 2013, he gave me one last gift.<br />
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He completed my bracelet with a firework! He really thought of everything! It's such a gift to know that someone loves me enough to give me such a perfect day!<br />
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It's so amazing to see my bracelet every day and remember each moment! It was like something out of a movie! I truly felt like Cinderella at the ball with my Prince Charming!<br />
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The next morning, as we were thinking over how well everything went and all of the little things and moments the Lord gave us, Nick said something I will never forget. He said, "The only way we got a perfect day like that is because the Lord said, 'You are my daughter and I love you and I want you to have this perfect gift".<br />
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I can't wait to marry this man the Lord has given me!<br />
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We can't say it enough that our journey, our beautiful story, is only possible because the Lord has been gracious to us. He loves us so much and He has good things for His children. Truly, every good and perfect gift comes down from above, from a heavenly Father who loves us more deeply than we will ever understand. I hope you find hope, love, and peace in the sharing of our gift. The Lord is good and His mercy never fails.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-77272409994823385762012-10-14T20:33:00.003-07:002012-10-14T20:33:36.899-07:00A Long Overdue UpdateI started writing tonight for the first time in quite a while. I was invited to guest write for a blog for a local women's organization and so I sat down at my computer to write. As those blogs are published, I will post them here. But, for now, it has come to my attention that my last blog post was in March! So many things have changed in my life since then and I want to take a moment to share them.<br />
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<strong><u>Chicago or Bust!</u></strong><br />
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Most of you know, but for those who don't, in February I moved to the beautiful and windy "Second City". Well, in truth, I live about 45 minutes North West of Chicago in Elgin, Illinois. Nick and I had always talked about him finding his way to the South, but the Lord had different plans. In a time frame that seemed impossible to both of us, the Lord opened the doors for me to move North. I found someone who was renting a room in a beautiful historic house in Downtown Elgin, packed my car and, with Karlee as co-pilot, headed out on a big adventure. I may one day write, in detail, about the amazing ways the Lord made it possible for me to move. So many of my friends and family blessed me in ways for which I can never say thank you enough. It was truly an overwhelming and humbling time.<br />
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<strong><u>Houston, we have a problem...</u></strong><br />
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Karlee and I, packed tightly in my Mustang with many of my belongings, set off on a journey. We stopped in Atlanta to have breakfast with Jonathan, Joya and Thomas Davis. Then we detoured through Knoxville to have lunch with my cousins Christy and Jen. Then it was straight on towards Chicago with more than a few stops at Starbuck's along the way. We left early on Saturday morning and didn't arrive at Nick's house until well after midnight. After catching a few winks, we were back up, moved me into my new room and made a trip to IKEA for everything I would need. <br />
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I settled in really quickly and we spent time hanging out while Nick and Karlee got to know each other a little better. On Monday morning, Karlee and I headed towards the airport and I noticed a problem with my car. I called Nick to explain what I was hearing and how I wasn't getting any heat when my car completely shut off in the middle of I-90. I was able to coast to the shoulder where Karlee and I waited for Nick to come rescue us. He scooped us up, got Karlee to her plane on time and then came back to wait for my car to be towed back to his house.<br />
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After a week of diagnostics, he decided that my car had blown a head gasket! Not exactly the way I wanted to start my life here, but THANK GOD it didn't happen somewhere in the middle of Kentucky! What grace that God allowed me to make it all the way here where it could become the pet project of a mechanical engineer. To me, it was completely devestating and overwhelming. To him, it was nothing but a challenge and a great big puzzle.<br />
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We learned a lot about each other and our ability to work as a team during those first few weeks. We took my engine apart, managed to get it to a machine shop in Chicago to have it remanufactured, and then put it all back together. I don't know if I've ever been more anxious than the moment I started the new engine for the first time. It was also the best feeling to have it roar to life!<br />
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Fortunately, for me, I was able to work from home for the travel agency. I can't imagine what I would have done if I'd been committed to a job right away. Again, the Lord knew what He was doing. I had hoped to secure a job before I moved, but the Lord knew what was ahead.<br />
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<strong><u>Plastics, my boy - Plastics!</u></strong><br />
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<br />WhileI was working and waiting, Nick's Aunt passed along a possible job opportunity through his Mom. So, in March, I interviewed for a new job. However, as this is an area with a high percentage of spanish speakers, they were hoping to find someone bilingual. So, "no harm, no foul". It was nice to have the opportunity to interview, but I wasn't desperately searching for a job. <br />
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Truthfully, I wasn't even sure I wanted a new job. I've worked for my family for 15 years and didn't know how I would like working for someone else. But, I felt like it was important for me to begin establishing a life here, so I kept praying about the opportunity God had for me.<br />
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About a month later, I was called back to the company with which I interviewed and was offered a job. I was initially hired to be an office administrator and accounting assistant with ADMO, Inc., a local plastic injection molding manufacturer. Actually, I was hired without a specific job in mind. My new boss loved the fact that I had come from a family business where I had learned to wear many hats. So, I worked as an admin for the President of the company, assisted the staff accounting and also managed IT issues. I really loved it right away!<br />
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I started on May 1st and on July 9th, I moved into a new position as Human Resources Administrator. The Staff Accountant (Her name is Nicole and has truly become a good friend!), was being promoted, so I was given the option of taking over the accounting or stepping into the recently vacated HR role. After thinking about it and talking it over with Nick, I decided that HR was a great fit for me. It was the best use of my skill set and I really believed I could excel. So, I accepted that position and have been learning so much ever since!<br />
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I have a boss (who, incidentally is very similar to my Dad) who really wants to teach me. He's happy to help me learn as I step into this new role in a larger organization. I feel like I've been thrown into the deep end with the situations I've had to handle in a few short months, but I am very proud of the job I'm doing. It's very exciting to step into a new industry and a new role and see success. It's been very encouraging!<br />
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<strong><u>A New Harvest</u></strong><br />
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Nick and I have also been attending Harvest Bible Chapel. It's a HUGE church, especially in comparison with the church I've been a member of for the last 8 years. I love the teaching and the worship and I am finally beginning to step into a woman's Bible study. Nick and I have been spending some time with one of the pastors and have been really encouraged by him. I've truly enjoyed a season of rest since moving here, but I am waiting to see what the Lord would have me do as life moves forward.<br />
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I've been at this for a while and probably should hit the hay. But, I just wanted to let everyone know that while I miss my family and friends in Georgia, I absolutely KNOW that the Lord moved me to Illinois! God has given Nick and I a beautiful story and an amazing chance to be together again. His family has been amazing, too! In fact, his sister-in-law, Ashley, was my first friend here. Drew, Ashley, Tony and Renee have been so welcoming and I love getting to spend time with them. I love to see Nick's relationships with his brothers. I have been loved really well by Jackie and Joe all of the way from Seattle and can't wait to see them in person (along with their 3 beautiful boys!). And, Nick's parents have recently moved back South to Lexington, Kentucky, making them a reasonable drive away. In fact, we were able to spend Labor Day Weekend with them and had a great time. I'm loving the life we are building here.<br />
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I hope to share, in more detail, about the amazing way God is blessing us. But, for now, I'm signing off and wishing you all a good night!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-73275938463029224782012-03-09T09:47:00.003-08:002012-03-09T10:14:28.007-08:00Something ControversialOver the last few days, a video has gone viral on the internet. Unlike so many viral videos, this is not of talking animals, dancing grandmas, or any number of other zany videos that make us laugh throughout the course of the day. No, this is a 30 minute documentation of the story of Josephy Kony, a war criminal.<br /><br />The video has sparked a lot of controversy and conversation. The organization responsible for the video, <a href="http://www.invisiblechildren.com.s3-website-us-east-1.amazonaws.com/">Invisible Children</a>, has come under scrutiny as well. All of this is good. It's important to ask questions and to do research. Before getting involved in a movement, it's important to ask questions.<br /><br />I am staggered by the darkness in this world. There are some days where I am sick to my stomach and reduced to tears over what happens here. It can be overwhelming to even know where to begin. I hate that we've given so few real alternatives to women that they often feel the only "choice" they have is to terminate the life of their child. I hate the degredation of the soul that allows for enslavement and torture of young people in a sex trade that is more alive than ever. I hate the state of our economy that has even 1st world, American children going to bed hungry at night. I hate that all over the world, people of all ages are starving, overwhelmed by disease, and afraid for their lives and the lives of their children. I hate that evil has such a hold on this world and so much power. This list doesn't even begin to scratch the surface of the injustice plaguing us today. Not even a little bit.<br /><br />But, in an age where my generation and the ones after are far too often apathetic and selfish, I love to see the stir created by <a href="http://www.invisiblechildren.com.s3-website-us-east-1.amazonaws.com/">Invisible Children</a>. I love to see that they are working to make a difference. I remember when they began their fight and how it stirred up the hearts of my friends. It's not the only thing in the world that needs our attention, but it has taken root in the hearts of some and I love to see them trying to make a difference. <br /><br />Everyone must make the choice for themselves if and where to begin. There are things that make me weep and yet, I am overwhelmed at where to start. But, this movement requires little of me and stirs up a desire for me to find other ways to help other people. It shows me the power of one voice when committed to make a change. <br /><br />For those of you who have questions about how <a href="http://www.invisiblechildren.com.s3-website-us-east-1.amazonaws.com/">Invisible Children</a> spends the donations they receive, they've outlined and answered as many questions as they could find in the blogosphere and news wires. Please visit their<a href="http://invisible.tumblr.com/"> blog </a>for more information: <a href="http://invisible.tumblr.com/">http://invisible.tumblr.com/</a><br /><br />Whether you agree with the <a href="http://kony2012.s3-website-us-east-1.amazonaws.com/">Stop Kony movement</a> or not,I hope you'll take the time to watch the film and let it stir your heart. Whether it stirs you to help "Make Kony Famous" or not, I hope it helps you peek outside of your own circumstance and look for a way to help combat a little of the darkness in the world. I hope it encourages you that one voice, committed to change, can make a difference.<br /><br />Here's the video for those who are interested:<br /><br /><iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Y4MnpzG5Sqc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br /><a href="http://youtu.be/Y4MnpzG5Sqc">http://youtu.be/Y4MnpzG5Sqc</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-1386897806309589742012-01-26T20:23:00.000-08:002012-01-26T20:35:32.670-08:00Something ScaryLast weekend I did something I honestly never dreamed I'd do. I can honestly say the thought never once crossed my mind that I would ever try something quite so frightening. But, I did it.<br /><br />I took my turn on the flying trapeze.<br /><br />It's ok if you need to stop and read that sentence again. I'll wait.<br /><br />For those of you who know me well, you have probably discovered that I have an intense fear of heights. I abhor ladders. And, if you're asking me to walk across something I can see through, you may as well ask me to land on the moon. Did you know that trapeze class incorporates ALL 3 of those things? I bet you didn't.<br /><br />But, you see, I have this friend who always comes up with crazy ideas and loves to push me outside of my comfort zone. And, she thought trapeze class sounded like fun. <br /><br />Unbeknownst to this friend, I've recently made a little promise to myself not to let fear stop me from trying new things. I want more adventure in my life and I'm tired of being paralyzed by the "what ifs". Enter Amy...and trapeze class.<br /><br />When we arrived at the facility, the advanced class was in progress. Watching those young folks "fly through the air with the greatest of ease" did nothing to quell my fears. I watched them scurry up the shaky ladder and blithely flip off the edge of the net. None of that seemed like fun to me. Not even a little.<br /><br />But, I did it.<br /><br />I couldn't feel my legs for about an hour afterwards because of all of the adrenaline and emotion running through my veins, but I am so proud of myself! I couldn't believe I was able to actually climb the ladder, jump off the platform, swing on the trapeze and flip off the net.<br /><br />This may seem like a small thing to you, but to me it was enormous. So, thank you, Amy for pushing me to do something I never thought I'd do. Thanks for taking the plunge with me. I'm hoping this year is full of adventure as I learn to let go of my fear and step out in faith.<br /><br />Here's a little video of my trapeze adventure for those who may be interested:<br /><br /><iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/VAuMSvyXvOE" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-67210911871737387922012-01-25T06:33:00.000-08:002012-01-25T06:54:51.572-08:00Something ManlyI'm currently reading the book "Wild at Heart" by John Eldredge. It's a book that talks specifically about how men were created to reflect the glory of God and teach us about His character. It's been an interesting journey into the wild heart of man.<br /><br />Eldredge states that there are three deep seated desires in the heart of a man. He must have a battle to fight, and adventure to live and a beauty to rescue. It's been interesting to dig into those three things and see what God has called man to be. I am also reading this book's counterpart for women, called "Captivating", by John and his wife Stasi Eldredge. In "Captivating" the couple states that the deep seated desires of a woman's heart are to be romanced, to play an irreplaceable role in a great adventure, and to have a beauty to unveil. Reading these books together has been a beautiful journey into how we are created in unique, yet complimentary ways, to display the face of God to the world.<br /><br />In "Captivating", the authors talk about the wounds that women can receive from men who do not use their strength appropriately. Sometimes strength is used aggressively and a woman is wounded by a man who physically or verbally abuses her. But, sometimes, the strength is passive and not used to stand up for or fight for the woman. Sometimes she is ignored, or not defended, or not seen. When there isn't balance to strength, it wounds.<br /><br />A few weeks ago, I was given a beautiful display of strength used appropriately. We have a project, a remodel, that has become overwhelming. It had become a drain on the financial and emotional resources of my family. It needed to be tackled, but we did not have the strength.<br /><br />And so, the men showed up.<br /><br />My Dad's father, his brothers, my brother, and men from my church all came together, pooling their strength and resources, and made a huge dent in the project. They came through for me and my family. It was a truly beautiful thing to watch. I am blessed to have such men in my life.<br /><br />Sometimes, that is what we need to see of the character of God. He shows up for us. He comes through for us. He uses His strength for our good. He doesn't sit by and watch as we sink, nor does He yell at us to try harder. No. "The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in His love He will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing" (Zephaniah 3:17)!<br /><br />I am so grateful to the men who showed up that day to show me how strength comes through. Each of you reflected the glory of God that day and my heart is forever grateful!<br /><br />Many thanks to:<br /><br />Bob Solly (Grandpa)<br />Robert Solly (Uncle)<br />Tom LaSalle (Uncle)<br />Deno Trentman (Uncle)<br />Dan Solly (Dad)<br />Daniel Solly (Brother)<br /><br />And the men of Word of Life Free Methodist Church<br />Kevin Bowers<br />Bob Britton<br />Tom Gridley<br />Michael McBrayer<br />Jeff Minor<br />Greg Nitchman<br /><br />I pray that the Lord gives back a double portion of what you give out as you use your strength to show the rest of us who He is. It means so much to have someone show up and come through. I'm more grateful than I have words to express!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-90436729506105453752012-01-21T13:54:00.000-08:002012-01-25T07:26:38.453-08:00Something BeautifulAll too often, I don't take the time to stop and blog unless I've been processing some deep truth in my life. More often than not, blogging helps me finally distill my thoughts into truth and belief. I share here, quite frequently, the struggles of my journey.<br /><br />But, I've come to realize that I don't project a full and complete picture.<br /><br />When I only take the time to talk about when life is hard, I lead my readers to believe my life is always hard. That is simply not true and is, in fact, far from the reality of it.<br /><br />My life is full of joy, happiness and people who love me really well. The story that God is writing for me is nothing short of beautiful.<br /><br />I had a taste of that "something beautiful" this Christmas and New Year's. I had the opportunity to take time to travel to Illinois to be with Nick. And, while I missed my family and spent my first Christmas without them, it was filled with so much joy I could hardly take it in.<br /><br />Some of you know the details of my story and how the Lord is working in my life. It's been so beautiful to see how He can redeem things I believed were lost. This trip was a gift to me from a Father Who loves me very much.<br /><br />Nick's Christmas gift to me was "Experiencing Life Together". Because we live far apart, we don't get to experience much life together at all. So, we were intentional about getting out and taking on life together. We baked cookies, bought and decorated a Christmas tree, put together puzzles, watched old Christmas movies and worshipped together at his church. And, the whole next week, he took me to several places in Chicago. We explored the Museum of Science and Industry, the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, The Art Institute of Chicago, The Brookfield Zoo at night and he even got me out on "the Ledge" in Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower). It was a week of seeing the wonder of the world and living together in it. It was really something beautiful.<br /><br />I wanted to take the time to share these things with you. And, although I don't really make New Year's Resolutions, perhaps I should. Perhaps I should resolve to share more of the joy of my life instead of only the difficult pieces. My life is full of beauty and love. And, I serve a God who is weaving redemption through every part of my story...and yours.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150470556577151.359993.500562150&type=3&l=5bbb908d11">Click here for pictures</a><br />So, hopefully I will have more beautiful things to share with you in 2012! I hope it's a blessed year for you all!<a href="http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150470556577151.359993.500562150&type=3&l=5bbb908d11"></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-31127545356068842152011-12-05T12:50:00.000-08:002011-12-05T14:47:16.914-08:00Thanksgiving 2011It's been a while since I've taken the time to blog. There's a great deal running through my mind, so I may have a few posts in the works. But, before too much more time passes, I think I should take a moment and reflect on all of things for which I am thankful this year.<br /><br />The last couple of years have been dotted with conflict and pain for me and my family. It's been a difficult process, but the Lord has been faithful to give us beauty amidst the storm. That's what I'm thankful for, most of all, this year.<br /><br />I'm thankful for relationships that are renewed and stronger through lessons learned.<br /><br />I'm thankful for a better understanding of what it means to "speak the truth in love" and why it is so important. I understand better why "beating around the bush" is not really loving or kind, even though we think we're trying to spare someone's feelings.<br /><br />I'm thankful for modern medicine and doctors who can replace my Mom's knees. I'm thankful for hospitals and emergency room doctors and nurses who were able to treat my Dad's recent cardiac event. We are blessed to be able to have access to quick and quality medical care.<br /><br />I'm thankful for my beautiful niece, Ansley Katherine, who shows me every day what it means to wonder at the world. Watching her grow and being part of her life is one of the greatest joys I've ever experienced.<br /><br />I'm thankful for friends who have allowed me to cry on their shoulders and, on occasion, scream in their ears. There are several people in my life who truly deserve a title stronger than "friend". They are the ones I can call in the middle of the night. They show up with meals for my family, company for my mom, or with their work boots on without hesitation. I am richly blessed by amazing people who love me so well. It's truly humbling.<br /><br />But, for me, this year has been largely about a story of reconciliation and redemption. In the midst of turmoil that seems to have no end, the Lord gave me something truly beautiful and full of hope on which to hang my heart. I could never have imagined the roads that lead us here. I am so grateful for a God who cares about the minute details of my story and has been weaving it together over the years. <br /><br />I don't know what the future holds, but I do know that I have been given an immense blessing and measure of joy. And, I've been given proof that the Lord hears my prayers and His Word and voice can be trusted. <br /><br />"Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen." (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%203:20-21&version=NIV">Ephesians 3:20-21</a>)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-8183198381778464252011-09-18T21:06:00.000-07:002011-09-18T21:08:18.806-07:00Wide Eyed WonderIt seems to me that the longer we walk on this earth, the more accustomed we become to its wonder. We can get to a place where we've "seen it all". Sometimes that is sad to me. When I'm stopped in my tracks by a beautiful sunset, I wonder how I've missed them every other day. Wonder is a beautiful thing and I try to keep that sense about me whenever I can.<br /><br />Tonight, I witnessed something truly beautiful. Daniel and Katie took the opportunity to have a "date night" tonight and I spent a bit of time watching my niece, Ansley. We are currently sailing on Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas. This is her first cruise and she's absolutely loving it! While we were hanging out in her cabin, (watching Lion King, singing and dancing) I heard the music for the Aqua Show start. We headed out onto the balcony and watched as amazing performers put on an unbelievable show.<br /><br />But, I could hardly take my eyes from Ansley's face. She was drinking it all in. She was entranced by it all and loving every second of it. I love getting to see her experience thigns for the first time. She has nothing about her that inhibits her sense of wonder. Unlike so many jaded adults, she has a fresh, clean palate upon which she can paint. It's truly beautiful to see.<br /><br />I hope that I can remember to stop and wonder at the things around me. Watching Ansley grow up and experience life afresh has helped me to do that more. It's more precious than I can say. What a priviledge and treasure. I'm so looking forward to this week and the wonder it will surely hold!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-51119573035138280592011-07-26T06:59:00.000-07:002011-07-26T07:03:12.535-07:00The Answer to ArgumentsFrom "Grace for the Moment" by Max Lucado<br /><br />"Get along with each other, and forgive each other. If someone does wrong to you, forgive that person because the Lord forgave you." Colossians 3:13<br /><br />Unity doesn't begin in examining others but in examining self. Unity begins not in demanding that others change, but in admitting that we aren't so perfect ourselves...<br /><br />The answer to arguments? Acceptance. The first step to unity? Acceptance. Not agreement, acceptance. Not unanimity, acceptance. Not negotiation, arbitration, or elaboration. Those might come later but only after the first step, acceptance.<br /><br /><em>from "In the Grip of Grace"</em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-41218640150649992512011-07-20T10:49:00.000-07:002011-07-20T10:57:51.923-07:00Taking the "hit" for JesusA dear friend's mother shared this short devotional with me the other day. She shared a lesson the Lord had taught her long ago in hopes that I would gain wisdom from it. It's been reverberating through my heart and mind ever since. I'd like to share it with you.<br /><br />This excerpt is from "My Utmost for His Highest (An updated edition in Today's Language)" by Oswald Chambers<br /><br />Suffering Afflictions and Going the Second Mile<br /><br />"I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also" (Matthew 5:39)<br /><br />This verse reveals the humiliation of being a Christian. In the natural realm, if a person does not hit back, it is because he is a coward. But in the spiritual realm, it is the very evidence of the Son of God in him if he does not hit back. When you are insulted, you must not only not resent it, but you must make it an opportunity to exhibit the Son of God in your life. And you cannot imitate the nature of Jesus - it is either in you or it is not. A personal insult becomes an opportunity for a saint to reveal the incredible sweetness of the Lord Jesus.<br /><br />The teaching of the Sermon on the Mount is not, "Do you r duty," but is, in effect, "Do what is not your duty." It is not your duty to go the second mile, or to turn the other cheek, but Jesus said that if we are His disciples, we will always do these things. We will not say, "Oh well, I just can't do any more, and I've been so misrepresented and misunderstood." Every time I insist on having my own rights, I hurt the Son of God, while in fact I can prevent Jesus from being hurt if I will take the blow myself. That is the real meaning of filling "up in my flesh what is lacking int he afflictions of Christ..." (Colossians 1:24). A disciple realizes that it is his Lord's honor that is at stake in his life, not his own honor.<br /><br />Never look for righteousness in the other person, but never cease to be righteous yourself. We are always looking for justice, yet the essence of the teaching of the Sermon on the Mount is - Never look for justice, but never cease to give it.<br /><br /><br />I'd love to hear your thoughts on this principle. It's very much against our nature to give up our rights...to apology...to vindication...to whatever, but this perspective is very humbling to me. It's going to be working on my heart for a while.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-70074783887317599232011-07-07T08:17:00.000-07:002011-07-07T08:30:48.553-07:00System Restore PointDo you ever have one of those days, one of those moments, that you'd just like to take back? How many times have you wanted to return to the moment just <em>before</em> you made that choice, spread that gossip, ended that relationship, or crossed that line? <br /><br />I've read a couple of books this week that have started my thoughts in that direction. I've started to think about and visualize that moment just before our lives change; that moment we completely take for granted. When we look back, we see it as the place we'd return to if there were any way possible. That fork in the road where things somehow got off track.<br /><br />As I was logging into my computer this morning, I reached my maximum level of frustration with its performance and decided today is the day I spend time working to make it work properly. As I started the process of clean up and recovery, I came across the option to set a system restore point.<br /><br />Wouldn't that be nice?<br /><br />What would it be like if we could stop, in a good moment, and hit the save button? What if we knew, no matter what choice we were about to make, we could return to that safe place in time?<br /><br />I don't know if I would want that option. My mistakes have made me who I am just as much as my good choices have. We learn (hopefully) when things go wrong and make better choices the next time.<br /><br />And, although we can't have a clean reset like a machine, there are ways to get back to that restore point in human relationships as well.<br /><br />What choice did you make that took you down an unfavorable path? Is there a way to get back?<br /><br />Did you spread gossip? Make it right. Confess it, repair the relationships, and try not to do it again.<br /><br />Did you end a relationship? Was that the right choice or do you wish it could be restored? Be brave. Make it right. Ask for forgiveness. Give forgiveness. Move forward.<br /><br />Did you cross a line that you shouldn't have? Apologize. Deal with the damage. Make restititution. Make it right.<br /><br />Make it right. It's possible. We can't get back to a clean restore point, necessarily, but I'm learning that if we just do the right thing, sometimes we end up in a much better place than we ever imagined. Sometimes a repaired relationship is stronger and more honest than the original one was.<br /><br />What are those things in your life? Where would you set your restore point if you could go back and do it again? What's stopping you from making it right?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-66557476319650740742011-06-17T13:28:00.000-07:002011-06-17T13:48:45.255-07:00I Want The HealerFor the last couple of days, I have had the priviledge of leading worship from the Woods stage at Atlanta Fest just before Chad Wallace took the stage to share a message from his heart. It's been a beautiful experience and I'm looking forward to doing it one more time tomorrow. I have a few stories I want to share about this experience and how God is working, but I think I still need some time to process them myself. But, I do want to share with you a song written by Matt Jackson who shared just after us the last two days.<br /><br />The chorus of this song is echoing in my heart and I hope will be resonating for the rest of my life:<br /><br />"I want the Healer, not just the Healing. I want the Giver, not just the gifts. I want the Real Thing, not just Something. I want You. I want You."<br /><br />Too often, we look for the healing and forget that the Healer is so much more than we could ever hope or imagine. I hope you'll let those words simmer in your heart, as they are in mine, and reach out the Healer, the Giver of all good things.<br /><br />Check out Matt Jackson at <a href="http://iammattjackson.com/">http://iammattjackson.com/</a><br /><br />And the link to "The Healer": <a href="http://youtu.be/o3xszRlosvY">http://youtu.be/o3xszRlosvY</a><br /><br /><br /><iframe width="560" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/o3xszRlosvY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br /><br />The Healer<br />By:<br />Matt Jackson<br /><br />I don't want to build this house in vain<br />I don't want to place another stone unless you show me where it lays<br />I don't want to do this on my own<br />I just want to be right where You are where I can see what's in Your heart<br />You are my life, You are my source<br />And I'm seeking You until all mysteries are known<br />You are my life, You are my source<br />And I'm seeking You alone<br /><br />I want the Healer, not just the healing<br />I want the Giver, not just the gifts<br />I want the Real Thing, not just some thing<br />I want You, I want You<br />I want You<br /><br />You have my life in Your control<br />And I am letting go and letting You tear down my walls<br />You are the Builder, I am the stone<br />You are breaking me and making me; it helps me to see<br />You have my life, You are my source<br />And I'm seeking You until all the mysteries are known<br /><br />I want the Healer, not just the healing<br />I want the Giver, not just the gifts<br />I want the Real Thing, not just some thing<br />I want You, I want You<br /><br />I'm giving You everything<br />I'll give it all<br />'Cause You've given me everything<br />I'll give it allUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-4805381204182019862011-06-10T07:38:00.001-07:002011-06-10T07:47:20.008-07:00The Beauty of RedemptionIf you know me, you know that I love a good story of redemption. Books or movies that fail to redeem something broken in the story line often leave me feeling flat and unsatisfied. I love grace and I'm so thankful for it (because Heaven knows I need it!).<br /><br />And also, if you know me, or have been around me recently, you also know that God is weaving a beautiful story of redemption in my life. It's more than I could have hoped for and better than I dared to dream. I'm so happy and completely overwhelmed that God has chosen to show His favor and grace in the way that He is right now for me. <br /><br />As a church, we've been reading through the Bible. Our plan is to read through it together in a year. We've just made it through Leviticus and I was struck by how many times the word "redeem" is used. From the beginning, God has been working for our redemption. He's been showing His grace and favor and giving us a way out. It's an amazing and overwhelming thing. The God of the Universe cares about the details of our life and how we find our way back to Him. Wow!<br /><br />Do you see redemption in your story? How is God showing His grace and favor for you right now? Are you missing it? Take a moment to step back and find that thread He is weaving into your every day story. I bet you'll be amazed too.<br /><br />Redemption is beautiful. Without it, how lost I would be.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-85274865413394733452011-05-19T13:59:00.001-07:002011-05-19T14:11:41.388-07:00Mending FencesThis week I had someone who wanted to "mend a fence" with me over a situation. However, the way they chose to go about it was to just ignore that there was a problem and pretend like everything was fine. In small offenses, sometimes, I am willing to overlook things and just move on without sifting through the past. But, when it's something big, it's a different story.<br /><br />I've had this picture in my mind regarding certain situations where the floorboards of a house have been broken, attacked by termites, or have become rotten and unstable. In those situations, the home owner would be foolish to merely try to fix what was left. It's important to remove the broken and decayed pieces before rebuilding the foundation. <br /><br />The same is true in a relationship when things happen that shake or damage the foundation. It's important to address the problem, remove the decay, and begin afresh. In some cases, it may be as simple as saying "I'm sorry", or maybe the situation calls for restitution to be made. But, there is some amount of work that needs to be done if the relationship is going to be healthy.<br /><br />I've been experiencing that in another relationship lately where much care has been taken to find out how we wound up at odds and how we can avoid it in the future. Humility has been shown from both sides and responsibility has been taken where appropriate. And, grace has been found in a beautiful measure. It's been hard to be honest with my mistakes, but I know that I can speak openly before this friend and be forgiven just as I myself have been forgiving. It's a really beautiful thing.<br /><br />The best thing about it is that I know the rotten, decaying and broken wood that had found it's way in has been removed and destroyed and replaced with something clean, fresh and beautiful. The foundation has been repaired and a healthy relationship now exists based on truth and respect.<br /><br />So, my questions for you are:<br /><br />1. Can fences be mended without addressing how they were broken in the first place? Is that always important? <br /><br />2. Are there times it is ok to just overlook an offense and move forward as if nothing is wrong?<br /><br />I'd love to hear any thoughts on this as it's what I'm currently processing for myself!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-3471359731271800632011-04-26T21:04:00.000-07:002011-04-26T21:05:11.465-07:00Commitment vs. DistractionsIt never seems to fail that once I start something new or make a commitment to a goal, distractions multiply and seem to come out of the woodwork! <br /><br />Take today for instance...<br /><br />Somehow, my alarm clock was changed to a radio station instead of an actual alarm (I'm sure it was something I did when setting the time). However, I was gently awakened by music and was 2 HOURS LATE to work! So much for trying to read my chapters before I started my day.<br /><br />On my way in to work, I had to stop and run an errand, making me even later.<br /><br />Once I got to work, I realized that today is the day I have a lunchtime Bible study in Fayetteville. AUGH! Why did I even come to Peachtree City if I had to turn right back around? At least the Bible study was a bright spot in my day and I read, studied and prayed with some lovely ladies. But, since our Bible study wasn't on Genesis 4-7, I still have my reading to accomplish!<br /><br />Back at work, problem after problem found it's way to my desk. My inbox is overflowing (my literal AND my virtual inbox). When will I find the time to read?<br /><br />Also, at the back of my mind is the fact that I'm supposed to see a movie tonight with some friends and really wanted to finish reading the book first. I still have 100 pages to read and only 4 hours before the opening credits. <br /><br />And none of that takes into account the giant "to do" list I created this morning.<br /><br />Have you ever had a day like that? You start out with the best of intentions, but when the day is over, you wonder what happened to the time?<br /><br />Maybe I should take a moment, right now, and spend a few minutes in the Word on Route 66. Hold on. I'll be right back.<br /><br />...<br /><br />Ahhhhhh...Now, why didn't I stop and do that this morning? I need to learn not to let the distractions of every day life interfere with my spiritual health. If I'm hungry or thirsty, I stop what I'm doing and meet those needs. Why is it not the same for spiritual hunger? It should be the same.<br /><br />Father,<br />Help me hunger and thirst after You and Your Word. Help me put aside distractions, frustrations, and anything else that stands in the way of my time with You. It's only by Your strength that I can accomplish what has been set before me. Help me.<br />Amen<br /><br />And, I'll be praying for you, too! I'm glad we're walking this journey together so we can lift one another up when we're discouraged or falling behind.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-72550099963478305222011-04-25T20:31:00.000-07:002011-04-26T21:11:03.088-07:00In the Beginning<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis%201&version=NIV">Genesis 1</a>:<br /><br />The first chapter of Genesis gives us a synopsis of the creation account. I love that it opens with “In the beginning…” because, that’s really where everything began. The Father, Son and Holy Spirit were already there as infinite beings, but this account is where we mark the beginning of time, the birth of creation, and the first steps on this journey of humanity. In the beginning was God and He created the heavens and earth and all that inhabit them.<br /><br />Day 1 – God creates light and separates it from the darkness<br /><br />Day 2 – God creates the sky<br /><br />Day 3 – God separates the water from dry land, seas from continents; He creates all vegetation<br /><br />Day 4 – God creates the Sun, Moon and Stars.<br /><br />Day 5 – God creates the creatures of the air and sea<br /><br />Day 6 – God creates the creatures of the land; He creates man<br /><br />I love that God created the world over the span of six days instead of in just a moment. I believe He had the power to simply speak everything into existence in a twinkling of His eye, but instead, He chose to demonstrate that not everything is built in a day. There is a time and a purpose for everything. And, there is a time for rest. Order and balance are important and the threads of that are seen throughout the creation story. <br /><br />One of my favorite things to note every time I read this passage is that the Lord created light and darkness 3 days before He created the sun, moon and stars. In our human way of thought, we tend to think of the sun and stars producing light and the moon reflecting it. But, the Lord says they were given to govern the light that He already made. Isn’t that beautiful?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+2&version=NIV">Genesis 2</a><br />There is a time for rest. Even the Lord of creation took a day to rest and appreciate His work. God is always giving us examples of holy and healthy living. He set aside the seventh day as the Sabbath, from the very beginning, so that we would see His example and take time to rest and reflect. In our fast paced society, it’s difficult to remember how important that is. It’s counter-intuitive to us, yet exactly how our Creator intended for us to behave.<br /><br />The second chapter of Genesis is one of the most beautiful and nostalgic to me. It is the brief moment in history when everything was perfect and right between God and His people. This chapter zooms in on the creation of man and woman, like a well told story, so we may see our origin more clearly. <br /><br /><em>“Then the Lord God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being”</em> (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+2&version=NIV">2:7</a>). <br /><br />It is because of the breath of God within us that we have a soul, that we have an existence different from the animals. We were made in the image of God, formed from the dust of the ground, and life was breathed into us. Isn’t that beautiful?<br /><br />But, for the first time in the creation story, God looks and says that something isn’t good. It wasn’t good for man to be alone (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+2&version=NIV">2:18</a>). And so he created woman from the rib of Adam and so began our journey as humanity.<br /><br /><em>“Adam and his wife were both naked, and they felt no shame”</em> (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+2&version=NIV">2:25</a>). And they felt no shame. <em>Sigh</em>. For one perfect moment, all was right with the world, we were rightly related to our Heavenly Father and to all of creation. What a beautiful moment.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+3&version=NIV">Genesis 3</a><br />And then came the fall. Adam and his wife were living in a paradise more beautiful than we can imagine. Brand new and completely fresh, they stood before the whole world and were rulers over it. But, a seed of darkness crept into Eden in the body of a serpent.<br /><br />The serpent came to the woman and planted thoughts of doubt in her mind. He made her question whether God was really good or if He was holding out on her. He twisted words and tempted her with the beauty of what God had placed out of bounds for her. She longed for wisdom and to be like God.<br /><br />And with that one bite, our relationship with the Creator was broken and a need for redemption entered the world.<br /><br />The man and woman hid from the Lord. They knew shame for the first time. Their eyes were opened and I’m sure they desperately wanted to turn back time.<br />The blame game began and continues even until this day. “It wasn’t my fault, I was tricked! I was tempted!” But, whatever the case, the perfection had been broken and they were cast out of the garden. Everything became more difficult. The serpent was cursed to and made to crawl on his belly. The woman was given pain in childbirth. The man was given the task of toiling for his food and survival.<br /><br />And so it begins. From the fall to the cross to the empty tomb to the day when the perfect is restored, we begin our journey of redemption.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-54730342748777590612011-04-25T20:28:00.000-07:002011-04-25T20:30:54.650-07:00Route 66: Journey through the Bible in a yearAs a church, we are journeying through the 66 books of the Bible in one year. I've been asked to blog about the experience and my reflections. I'll be copying my blogs to this site as well. I hope you'll join with us!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-14021356818761766222011-04-18T12:03:00.000-07:002011-04-18T12:12:51.456-07:00Celebrating 59 Years of MarriageToday is my Grandparents' 59th wedding anniversary. Can you imagine? Married to the same person for 59 years! I am in awe of such an accomplishment and so thankful I have a marriage like that to observe. <br /><br />It's always so interesting to me when I talk to my Grandparents about all of the things they have done and observed over the years. There is so much wisdom to be found at the feet of those who have already walked the road. <br /><br />My Grandpa has always been a hard worker and very good with his resources. He has always done what he needed to do to provide for his family and he is a skilled craftsmen at so many things. He's patient and kind and generous. He's a good, good man.<br /><br />My Grandma is a very creative person. I love seeing how she chooses to express herself through her artwork. And, she has a passion for passing that love of painting on to others. She loves to teach and watch her students grow. She has, along with my Grandfather, raised 5 children and watched as they have had children and grandchildren. She loves to talk about Jesus and the things she learns. <br /><br />And, I'm blessed because they both love me very much.<br /><br />I pray that I one day have the opportunity to live life with someone for such a length of time. Although, my cousin did point out that even if we each got married this year, we'd be 91 when we attained this benchmark. <br /><br />Congratulations, Grandma and Grandpa Solly! Thanks for bringing my Dad into this world and teaching him what it means to be a good parent. Thanks for loving me and being there for me when I need you. I hope my grandchildren can say the same of me one day. I love you!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-19698387416655439632011-04-10T10:51:00.000-07:002011-04-10T11:03:44.235-07:00Closing the Cirle: Unconfessed SinBelow are the notes from my sermon this morning. Before I spoke, Mrs. Katie (as Corrie Ten Boom) read an <a href="http://christysolly.blogspot.com/2011/04/tramp-for-lord-chapter-30.html">excerpt from Tramp for the Lord</a>.<br /><br />Closing the Circle<br />The Power of Unconfessed Sin in the life of a Christian<br /><br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%205:13-20&version=NIV">James 5:13-20</a><br /><br />Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops. My brothers and sisters, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring that person back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins.<br /><br />In preparation for this message, I read through the book of James. This book has a lot of wisdom to offer for the Christian life. He tells us to “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%201:1&version=NIV">James 1:1</a>). And he also tells us that “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%201:5&version=NIV">1:5</a>). He teaches us that it is not God who tempts us but we are drawn away by our own evil desires and enticed by sin: “Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.”(<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%201:14-15&version=NIV">1:14-15</a>)<br />James talks a lot about sin, it’s effects and how to avoid it. He wisely says, “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%201:19-20&version=NIV">1:19-20</a>)<br />He calls on us to be doers of the word (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%201:22&version=NIV">1:22</a>) and to walk out our faith in our actions by caring for the poor, the orphaned, and the widowed (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%201:27&version=NIV">1:27</a>).<br /><br />In <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%202&version=NIV">chapter 2</a>, James instructs us not to show favoritism but to love equally and invite all to the table. And, again he tells us that our faith without works is dead. He wants us to show the fruit of our salvation.<br /><br />Much of <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James+3&version=NIV">chapter 3</a> is devoted to learning to control the tongue. I’m learning a great deal about that particular spiritual truth and it is mentioned in most wisdom literature. Our words are powerful and we must choose them carefully. Wisdom comes from heaven and is pure, peace loving and full of mercy. That should be reflected in our words if we are the children of God.<br /><br />In <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James+4&version=NIV">chapter 4</a>, he talks to us about the fighting and back biting that can go on among us. All of these quarrels are rooted in sin and choosing to love the world and the things of the world. None of us is promised tomorrow, so we should live each day to the fullest and not pin our hopes on a future that is uncertain. One especially interesting point he makes in <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James+4&version=NIV">chapter 4</a> is found in <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%204:17&version=NIV">verse 17</a>: “If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.” So, it’s no longer about the sins you commit, but also about a failure to be obedient. James has a lot of wisdom, but also some very tough truths for us today. We are called to a difficult road as Christians, but we are promised joy in the process.<br /><br />The <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James+5&version=NIV">last chapter of James</a> begins by reiterating some of what he has already said. Do not oppress the poor (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%205:1-6&version=NIV">5:1-6</a>) and be patient in suffering (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%205:7-12&version=NIV">5:7-12</a>). But, when we come to the summary regarding prayer, there is a portion we so often overlook.<br /><br />James says if anyone is in trouble, he should pray. That makes sense to us. Easy.<br /><br />Then he says, if anyone is happy, they should sing praise songs. Sounds good.<br /> <br />Or if anyone is sick, he should call on the elders to pray, lay hands on him and anoint him with oil. He says that the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well. He will be raised up and his sins forgiven.<br /><br />All of that falls very much in line with our Christian doctrines, beliefs and actions. <br /><br />It’s the next portion that starts to make us a little squeamish.<br /><br />“Therefore, confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”<br /><br />Confess my sins to someone else? I don’t know about that. That would be humiliating! <br /><br />“Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” There doesn’t seem to be any gray in that, does there?<br /><br />James doesn’t stop there, he continues in the same breath to say “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”<br /><br />Are my unconfessed sins weakening the power of my prayers? According to James, yes. As you heard in <a href="http://christysolly.blogspot.com/2011/04/tramp-for-lord-chapter-30.html">the story of Ms. Corrie Ten Boom</a>, unconfessed sin in our lives breaks the circle of protection the Father desperately wants to keep around us. By holding in those dark secrets, we allow Satan to get a foothold in our hearts, in our minds, in our spirits. We start to fill up with things that block the communication between us and God.<br /><br />When I read the notes regarding what Pastor Greg wanted me to preach about today, I laughed out loud. The Lord has a funny sense of humor. You see, last week, as we prepared to take communion, Pastor Greg read from <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=I%20Corinthians%2011:17-34&version=NIV">I Corinthians 11:17-34</a>. Paul was addressing a situation in the church in Corinth where the Lord’s supper was being taken in an unworthy manner. Pastor Greg charged us to take a moment to examine our hearts and confess any sin to the Lord before partaking in the Lord’s supper. As I prayed in preparation, the Lord revealed some things in my heart – some sin that needed to be confessed. I took that moment to confess those things to the Lord and repent of them before taking the Lord’s supper. But, James says we must also confess our sins to each other and pray for each other.<br /><br />I have a great network of support and accountability. My best friend has been my best friend since I was 14 years old. She knows me better than just about any other person on the planet. And, she loves me fiercely and with a grace I hope I return to her in any portion. She’s someone I know I can call and confess my sins to and she will love me, offer gentle wisdom and correction, and pray with me that I may have victory over whatever it is. I have found this to be priceless in my life; absolutely priceless.<br /><br />But, as the Lord’s sense of humor is a complicated thing sometimes, He continued setting up His punchline for me. There is a situation in my life for which I’ve been praying for some time. Lately, I’ve begun to pray that the truth would just rise to the surface, but I haven’t seen any movement in that direction. But, since I’ve confessed the sin in my heart and to my friend, suddenly, truths have begun surfacing. It’s small, but to me, it was a confirmation of the truth the Lord was proving in my life.<br /><br />“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%205:16&version=NIV">James 5:16</a>).<br /><br />It was after all of this that I reviewed the notes for this sermon. I really couldn’t help laughing out loud at how the Lord works. He’d already walked me through this journey so that I could stand before you and be transparent and have fresh proof of His truth.<br /><br />But, James also gives us proof. He references the story of Elijah from <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=I%20Kings%2017-18&version=NIV">I Kings 17-18</a>. Elijah was sent as a prophet to God’s people. He called down the judgment of God in the form of a drought. No rain, not even any dew, would be on the ground until Elijah asked the Lord. It was three and half years before the people again had rain. <br /><br />“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” <br /><br />Because Elijah was obedient to the Lord, he performed and witnessed many miracles. He saw a jar of flour and oil remain miraculously full while the drought remained. He raised a boy from the dead. And, he took on 450 prophets of Baal and proved that our God is real and powerful.<br /><br />“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”<br /><br />In what areas of your life are you lacking power in prayer? <br /><br />Are you feeling like your prayers are just bouncing off of the ceiling and not making their way to heaven’s ears? <br /><br />What in your life may be weakening your prayers and opening the circle of the blood of Jesus in your life? <br /><br />Dig deep. Don’t be afraid to search them out – there is healing in shining the light on the dark places. Find someone you trust and confess your sins and pray together. There is healing there.<br /><br />James ends by giving us this truth: “My brothers and sisters, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring that person back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins.” (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%205:19-20&version=NIV">5:19-20</a>)<br /><br />There is life, healing, and freedom in the confession of sins. It’s a discipline that we don’t like to embrace. We don’t like to unzip our hearts and show the darkness inside. But, the Lord offers healing and power to those who are willing to close the circle and be surrounded by His blood.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-57742403239379468252011-04-10T10:00:00.000-07:002011-04-10T10:00:02.821-07:00Tramp for the Lord: Chapter 30This is an excerpt from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Tramp-Lord-Corrie-ten-Boom/dp/0875089860/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1302378924&sr=8-1"><em>Tramp for the Lord by Corrie Ten Boom</em></a><br /><br /><em>If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=I%20John%201:9&version=KJV">I John 1:9</a></em> <br /><br /><strong>Chapter 30: Closing the Circle</strong><br /><br />It would seem, after having been a Christian for almost eighty years, that I would no longer do ugly things that need forgiving. Yet I am constantly doing things to others that cause me to have to go back and ask their forgiveness. Sometimes these are things I actually do - other times they are simply attitudes I let creep in which break the circle of God's perfect love.<br /><br />I first learned the secret of closing the circle from my nephew, Peter van Woerden, who was spending the weekend with me in our little apartment in Baarn, Holland. <br /><br />"Do you remember that boy, Jan, that we prayed for?" Peter asked.<br /><br />I well remember Jan. We had prayed for him many times. He had a horrible demon of darkness in his life and although we had fasted and prayed and cast out the demon in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, the darkness always returned.<br /><br />Peter continued, "I knew God had brought this boy to me not only so he could be delivered, but to teach me some lessons too."<br /><br />I looked at Peter. "What could that boy, Jan, so filled with darkness, teach you?"<br /><br />"I did not learn the lesson from Jan," Peter smiled. "But from God. Once in my intercession time for Jan the Lord told me to open the Bible to <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=I%20John%201:7-9&version=KJV">I John 1:7-9.</a> I read that passage about confessing our sin and asked the Lord what that had to do with the darkness in Jan's life."<br /><br />Peter got up and walked across the room, holding his open Bible in his hand. "God taught me that if a Christian walks in the light then the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses him from all sin, making his life a closed circle and protecting him from all outside dark powers. But - "he turned and emphatically jabbed his finger into the pages of the Bible - "If there is unconfessed sin in that life, the circle has an opening in it - a gap - and this allows the dark powers to come back in."<br /><br /><em>Ah</em>, I thought, <em>Peter has really learned a truth from the Lord.</em><br /><br />"Tante Corrie," Peter continued, "even though I was able to cast out the demon in Jan's life, it always crept back in through the opening in the circle - the opening of Jan's unconfessed sin. But when I led Jan to confess this sin, then the circle was closed and the dark powers could no longer return."<br /><br />That same week the wife of a good friend came to me for counseling. After I had fixed her a cup of tea she began to tell me about all the people who had prayed for her, yet she was still experiencing horrible dreams at night. <br /><br />I interrupted her conversation and drew a circle on a piece of paper. "Mary," I said, "do you have unconfessed sin in your life? Is this the reason the circle is still open?"<br /><br />Mary said nothing, sitting with her head down, her hands tightly clasped in her lap, her feet together. I could see there was a strong battle going on in her life - a battle between spiritual forces.<br /><br />"Do you really want to be free?" I urged.<br /><br />"Oh, yes," she said.<br /><br />Suddenly she began telling me about a strong hatred she had for her mother. Everyone thought she loved her mother, but inside there were things that caused her actually to want to kill her. Yet, even as she spoke, I saw freedom coming into her eyes. <br /><br />She finished her confession and then quickly asked Jesus to forgive her and cleanse her with His blood. I looked into her eyes and commanded the demon of hatred to lave in the name of Jesus.<br /><br />What Joy! What freedom!<br /><br />Mary raised her hands in victory and began to praise the Lord, thanking Him for the liberation and forgiveness He had given her. Then she reached over and embraced me in a hug so tight I thought she would crack my ribs.<br /><br />"Dear Lord," she prayed, "I thank You for closing the circle with Your blood."<br /><br />Having thus learned to close the circle by confessing my sins, I wish I could say that ever since then the circle has remained closed in my life. It is not so. For since Satan comes against us so often, then it is necessary to confess often, also. Regardless of how old a person may be, or how long he has ministered in the Name of Jesus Christ, that man still needs to confess his sins again and again - and ask forgiveness.<br /><br />This truth became painfully clear to me recently when I was invited to Washington, D.C., to speak to a luncheon of businessmen and women. I love to talk to businessmen and was very excited about the meeting. When I arrived, however, I found only women present. This upset me for I felt that men needed to hear the message of forgiveness also.<br /><br />After the meeting a fine-looking lady came up to me. "I am in charge of arranging the program for the world convention of our ladies'group,"she said. "Some of the most influential women in the world will be present. Would you come speak to us in San Francisco?"<br /><br />I was still miffed that no men had been present for the luncheon. It's not that I disapprove of women's meetings. But I am concerned when men leave the spiritual activity to the women. God is calling <em>men</em>. Thus, I gave her a short, discourteous answer. "No, I will not. I must speak to men also. I don't like this business of all women."<br /><br />She was very gracious. "Don't you feel that you are the right person?" she asked.<br /><br />"No," I said, "I am not the right person. I do not like this American system where men go about their business leaving the women to act like Christians. I will not come." I turned and walked away. <br /><br />Later that afternoon I was in my room, packing to catch the plane. The Lord began dealing with me. "You were very rude to that woman," He said again, gently.<br /><br />I argued with the Lord. "But Lord, I feel that Your message is for all people, not just the women."<br /><br />"You were very rude to that woman,"He said again, gently.<br />He was right, of course. He always is. I had been speaking on forgiveness, but was unwilling to ask forgiveness for myself. I knew I was going to have to go that gracious woman and apologize - confess my sin. Until I did, the circle would be open in my life and Satan would be pouring in many other dark thoughts as well.<br /><br />I looked at my watch and saw I had only enough time to finish my packing and get to the airport. It made no difference. If I left Washington without closing the circle, I would be no good anywhere else. I would just have to miss my plane.<br /><br />I called the front desk and found which room the woman was in. Then I went to her room. "I must ask your forgiveness," I said as she opened the door. "I spoke to you rudely."<br /><br />She was embarrassed and tried to pass it off. "Oh, no," she said, "you were not unkind. I understand perfectly. I, too, feel that men should be the spiritual leaders, not women."<br /><br />She was returning my unkindness with kindness, but that was not what I needed. I needed for her to admit that I was wrong about not speaking to women, and forgive me. I know it is often more difficult to forgive than to ask forgiveness, but it is equally important. To withhold forgiveness often leaves another person in bondage, unable to close the circle, and thus open to further attacks from Satan. It is as important to forgive as it is to ask forgiveness.<br /><br />This sensitive woman understood. Reaching out and tenderly touching my hand, she said, "I understand, Tante Corrie. I forgive you for your remarks about women's groups and I forgive you for being unkind to me."<br /><br />That was what I needed to hear. In the future I would indeed speak to women's groups. I would also keep a watch on my lips when tempted to speak unkindly. I missed my plane, but the circle was closed.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31470369.post-36695219586015547502011-04-08T06:21:00.001-07:002011-04-08T07:39:49.433-07:00Healing through TearsI've been listening to this song, over and over, for the last couple of days. It has connected deeply with my heart and I want to share it with you.<br /><br />Blessings<br />by: Laura Story<br /><br />We pray for blessings, we pray for peace<br />Comfort for family, protection while we sleep<br />We pray for healing, for prosperity<br />We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering<br />And all the while, You hear each spoken need<br />Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things<br /><br />'Cause What if Your blessings come through raindrops<br />What if Your healing through tears<br />And What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near<br />What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise<br /><br />We pray for wisdom, Your voice to hear<br />We cry in anger when we can not feel You near<br />We doubt Your goodness, we doubt Your love<br />As if every promise from Your Word is not enough<br />And all the while, You hear each desperate plea<br />And long that we'd faith to believe<br /><br />'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops<br />What if Your healing comes through tears<br />And what if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near<br />And what if trials of this life, are Your mercies in disguise<br /><br />When friends betray us<br />When darkness seems to win we know<br />The pain reminds this heart that this is not, this is not our home<br />It's not our home<br /><br />'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops<br />What if Your healing comes through tears<br />What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near<br />What if my greatest disappointments or the aching of this life<br />Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can't satisfy<br />And what if trials of this life, the rain, the storms, the hardest nights <br />Are Your mercies in disguise<br /><br /><br />8 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, <br /> neither are your ways my ways,” <br /> declares the LORD. <br />9 “As the heavens are higher than the earth, <br /> so are my ways higher than your ways <br /> and my thoughts than your thoughts. - <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2055:8-9&version=NIV">Isaiah 55:8-9</a><br /><br /><br />We so often think we know what is best for us or how a situation should be handled. We ask the Lord, all the time, for things we don't understand. I love the line that says, "You love us way too much to give us lesser things." The plan the Lord has for us is so much greater than we could imagine, and yet we constantly ask to settle for less. "What if Your blessings come through raindrops, what if Your healing comes through tears? What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near? What if the trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise?"<br /><br />What if?<br /><br />What if the pain I'm experiencing today is preparing me for something down the road? What if I'd crumble without my experience now?<br /><br />What if the disappointment I'm facing is God's grace for me in a way I can't yet see?<br /><br />What if, when I pray for healing for a loved one, the Lord chooses not to heal or to call them home? Who am I to question that?<br /><br />He hears me. I know that. His "no" is the kindest answer He can give, sometimes, even if we don't see it that way.<br /><br />His ways are higher than ours.<br /><br />His thoughts are beyond our comprehension.<br /><br />What a blessing to have a Father who knows and sees all and is working all things together for our good. All things. Not just the things we think are good. All things. (Thanks, Daniel, for pointing that out). <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%208:28&version=NIV">Romans 8:28</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CSVqHcdhXQ">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CSVqHcdhXQ</a><br /><br /><iframe title="YouTube video player" width="480" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/1CSVqHcdhXQ?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0