The Blessing of Traveling

At this time next Friday I'll be on a plane from Houston to Philadelphia. I was thinking about it last night, how much I've been able to travel in the past three years.

I photographed a wedding in Florida in 2012, my first time ever to Florida. 

I shot a family reunion in Texas last April.

I went on a vacation with two of my closest friends to Florida last May.

I went again to Florida in November with my family to some friend's house for Thanksgiving/ vacation. 

And now?

I'm getting ready to fly for the first time (not counting the little Cessna plane and my flight to California when I was two which I can't remember), seeing parts of New England for the first time, shooting my friend's wedding in Pennsylvania, then driving back through more states I've never been to before and stopping in Maryland, North Carolina, and Alabama. 

Wow!

Besides photography and making jewelry and a little side cleaning job, I don't have an actual place of employment. And the little things I do don't make much money. Which shows me that my heart's desire of traveling to new places in my teen years is being fulfilled  by my dear Heavenly Father. Once again, He's taking my dreams and making them a reality. 

Psalms 37:4-5  Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. 

 Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. 

There's very few things that make my heart race faster than the possibility of seeing new places and having a new adventure. 

As I mentioned before, I dreamed of travel in my teen years. I even planned out a dream trip, including Rome, Paris, London, Scotland, Nova Scotia, and ending with the Statue of Liberty. Of course, I know that a trip like that would take thousands of dollars, and considering I don't plan on marrying a millionaire it will probably never happen. But it was so fun to plan and just dream.

I'm so thankful for this time in my life. Even though being single can be hard, it gives me the opportunity to experience new things and places and try to be a help to others. To grow closer to my family every day, and try to be the best example I can to my younger siblings who are always watching me. If I were in a relationship at this moment, I know that most of my thoughts would be on him, and our relationship. Not that I think there's anything wrong with that, it's just not what season of life I'm in at the moment. I'm in the happily single stage, until I get to the relationship stage that will be with me for the rest of my life. I'm thankful and content in the season I'm in until the Lord believes I'm ready for the next season. 

Ecclesiastes 3:1  To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: 

I just wanted to share with ya'll some thoughts and blessings in my life. Have you realized or thought of how God's been blessing your life lately? 

Time to Think

Sometimes, you just need to take a break, and think. Especially when you start to see problem areas in your life, ones that are appearing because you're too distracted. Next week we'll be going on a trip, and will also be Thanksgiving. I feel an urging from my Father to spend more alone time with Him, and listen to all He has to say that's been overpowered by social media lately. I just need to get away from the distractions. Take a walk. Read my Bible. Study. Meditate. Sit quietly and let my Lord speak. I feel a restlessness, and really need some direction from Him right now. 

 I'll try to post before we leave next week. 

So, have a wonderful week!

Any questions?

As you all know, I've been very busy. But I'd still like to do something here with my readers. Considering this blog is about modest fashion, Biblical beauty, frugality, and starting to be a little more about natural remedies and the like, I'd like to hear from my readers. 

Do you have a question about an outfit?

Current trend? 

Jewelry? 

Scarves?

Belts?

Hair and/or makeup? 

Something about me personally? 

A question about the Bible? 

I don't promise to have all the answers, but what I don't know, I will try my best to research the answer for you. Also, please understand, unless the answer is from the Bible, it's my personal opinion and conviction. You are free to agree or disagree. You can ask your question in a comment, and I'll address the question and make my reply in a post. 

I can't wait to hear them! :) 

Faith

Sometimes, you just need to take a step of faith. 

Sometimes, it's your own fears that hold you back.

God is waiting patiently for you to simply hold His hand, trust Him, and allow him to lead. 

Proverbs 3:6  In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. 

This picture has always been an example to me of our Father's guiding hand, caring heart, and constant presence. 

Are you holding onto your Father's hand? Or are you stumbling along, feeling alone, while He waits for you to trust Him? 

What are you waiting for? 

Overwhelmed?

Do you ever just feel overwhelmed?

Well, I was feeling it this morning. 

Three different situations hit me with what felt like a ton of bricks. More than likely Satan had a hand in magnifying my problems, making them seem impossible to conquer. The first thing I did was to text a good friend, a prayer warrior, and ask her to pray for me. I didn't go into detail, but I knew that she would be praying. Then, I sat in my computer chair, and asked my dear Heavenly Father if I could sit in His lap and pour out my problems to Him. Of course, He agreed, and listened intently as I cried my heart out, blubbering out all my concerns and heartaches and fears. Finally, I asked my sweet Best Friend to shoulder my burdens, knowing that He loved the people I was burdened for even more than me, and could handle my problems way better than my trembling, inadequate hands ever could. As I slowly calmed, wiped my nose, and dried my swollen red eyes, I pulled out my Bible. I felt an urge to read a little devotional called "Call to Glory", and you'll never guess what today's devotional was titled. "What Do You Seek in Times of Trouble?" I read the text that went with today's lesson, which was James 3:13-18. Across the page from today's text, a certain verse caught my eye.

James 4:6  But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. 

The first part of that verse made me think. More grace. More than what? More than your fear. More than your problems. More than anything Satan or this life can throw at you. Christ gives us more grace.

2 Corinthians 12:9-10  And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. 

Philippians  4:13  I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. 

1 Corinthians 10:13  There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. 

So do you feel overwhelmed? 

Tell your Heavenly Father.

 He's the best listener, comforter, and problem fixer you will ever meet. 

Virtuous Woman.....in Training?

I did this study a while back that I've been wanting to share with you, but kept forgetting about it. I'm finally getting around to posting it. I actually got to see part of this lesson in action recently, so I guess it means even more to me now. 

We've all probably been taught about the Proverbs 31 woman, the Virtuous Woman. But what was she like before she married? What are some lessons we need to learn as single young ladies, waiting for the young man God has planned for us? And who can we learn for them from? 

I realized while reading Genesis 24 one day, that Rebekah was a virtuous woman in training. There are some traits we see here in Rebekah that we should strive to have in our own lives as Christian young ladies preparing to be a helpmeet. 

Genesis 24:11-15  And he made his camels to kneel down without the city by a well of water at the time of the evening, even the time that women go out to draw water. 

 And he said, O LORD God of my master Abraham, I pray thee, send me good speed this day, and shew kindness unto my master Abraham. 

 Behold, I stand here by the well of water; and the daughters of the men of the city come out to draw water: 

 And let it come to pass, that the damsel to whom I shall say, Let down thy pitcher, I pray thee, that I may drink; and she shall say, Drink, and I will give thy camels drink also: let the same be she that thou hast appointed for thy servant Isaac; and thereby shall I know that thou hast shewed kindness unto my master. 

  And it came to pass, before he had done speaking, that, behold, Rebekah came out, who was born to Bethuel, son of Milcah, the wife of Nahor, Abraham's brother, with her pitcher upon her shoulder. 

We see here in verses 11-15 a reminder that God knows everything. 

Proverbs 16:1  The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the LORD. 

This verse in Proverbs tells us that God prepares certain things in our heart to carry out His will. In this passage in Genesis, we see the servant asking for specific signs to know for sure who was the right young lady for his master's son. Then, we see later how Rebekah fits the signs requested word for word. Sometimes we feel God's prompting to do certain things. Sometimes those things may seem embarrassing, awkward, or difficult to do, so we try to ignore it from laziness and or fear. But God always has a reason and a plan for these requests. 

So let's look at some of these characteristics of Rebekah that are shown. 

Genesis 24:15-26  And it came to pass, before he had done speaking, that, behold, Rebekah came out, who was born to Bethuel, son of Milcah, the wife of Nahor, Abraham's brother, with her pitcher upon her shoulder. 

  And the damsel was very fair to look upon, a virgin, neither had any man known her: and she went down to the well, and filled her pitcher, and came up. 

  And the servant ran to meet her, and said, Let me, I pray thee, drink a little water of thy pitcher. 

  And she said, Drink, my lord: and she hasted, and let down her pitcher upon her hand, and gave him drink. 

 And when she had done giving him drink, she said, I will draw water for thy camels also, until they have done drinking. 

  And she hasted, and emptied her pitcher into the trough, and ran again unto the well to draw water, and drew for all his camels. 

  And the man wondering at her held his peace, to wit whether the LORD had made his journey prosperous or not. 

 And it came to pass, as the camels had done drinking, that the man took a golden earring of half a shekel weight, and two bracelets for her hands of ten shekels weight of gold; 

 And said, Whose daughter art thou? tell me, I pray thee: is there room in thy father's house for us to lodge in? 

  And she said unto him, I am the daughter of Bethuel the son of Milcah, which she bare unto Nahor. 

 She said moreover unto him, We have both straw and provender enough, and room to lodge in. 

 And the man bowed down his head, and worshipped the LORD. 

     First, we see that Rebekah was a hard worker. Not only from her willingness to serve this stranger, but also for the implication that she was the first of the women to the well. She was not only thorough in her work, but also prompt. She was getting her work done early, which showed she was not lazy. 

Secondly, her surrendered heart. I believe that God not only prompted her to do all of these things, but put the words in her mouth to say (referring back to Proverbs 16:1). This displays a heart yielded to God, one that acknowledges Him to direct her paths (Proverbs 3:6). 

Next is Rebekah's hospitality. I can see giving the man water to more than likely be dutiful enough to show a stranger hospitality. But she went above and beyond what was expected of her. 

Following her hospitality, I see her patience. Verse 16 describes her as very fair, or beautiful, to look upon. It is very possible that she had had previous admirers considering her beauty, kindness, and work ethic. But she was waiting for the right one. Some young ladies have been given the opportunity to begin a relationship with a young man, but refused because they were waiting. Don't get into a relationship just because you're lonely. It may seem like an easy, quick solution, but it's not worth it in the long run. Wait for the right one. 

Genesis 24:55-58  And her brother and her mother said, Let the damsel abide with us a few days, at the least ten; after that she shall go. 

 And he said unto them, Hinder me not, seeing the LORD hath prospered my way; send me away that I may go to my master. 

 And they said, We will call the damsel, and enquire at her mouth. 

  And they called Rebekah, and said unto her, Wilt thou go with this man? And she said, I will go. 

Lastly, I see Rebekah's trust. In verse 58, we see Rebekah giving her word to marry a man she's never seen or met. How many of us would trust God enough to make that decision? Do you trust God in certain areas, but not all? I dare say every one of us has an area that we like to keep control over. How much do you trust your God, Father, and Creator? 

Proverbs 3:5-6  Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 

In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. 

I hope that this little study is as great a help to you as it was for me. It shows me that I still have so much to work on. 

Thoughts of Autumn

All of a sudden, I have this yearning for my favorite season of the year.

Autumn. 

Maybe it's because I always feel refreshed in autumn. For me, autumn is more inspirational and gives me the feeling of starting fresh more than New Years. 

Perhaps it's the cooler temperatures. 

Perhaps it's my excitement over homeschooling and grading again. 

Perhaps it's because most of my favorite outfits are in autumn colors. 

Perhaps it's getting to wear boots again.

Perhaps it's being able to go on long walks, taking in deep breaths of fresh, cool air, or keeping my windows open to let the breeze in and lighting my candles. 

I always have the urge to write in autumn. Like it's a sudden fire that ignites once a year, where my only relief is to write or type as fast as I can.

I catch myself daydreaming a whole lot more too. I used to daydream a lot, but now I'm so busy all the time, I often don't take the time to dream. But in autumn, my dreamer's heart re-emerges out from  under it's heavy weight of responsibility, and slows me down whether I want to or not. Praise for my Lord and His beautiful creation is more readily on my lips than at any other time of the year, and peaceful thoughts of thankfulness put a smile on my face. 

Leviticus 26:4  Then I will give you rain in due season, and the land shall yield her increase, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit. 

Many verses like this one in Leviticus mention the season of harvest, autumn. It's a symbol often used in the Bible of the Lord's blessings on His people. 

Ecclesiastes 3:1  To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: 

One of my favorite verses is this one in Ecclesiastes. It's been a beacon of hope to me in my darkest hours. 

Galatians 6:9  And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. 

Another verse of encouragement. Often by the end of summer, I feel like I'm about to faint from the heat and stress of our busy summer schedule. But that first cool breath of autumn is worth all the heat of every summer day. Just like the wonderful fulfilling joy of waiting on God's timing and reaping the rewards of my patience. 

Isaiah 40:31  But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. 

Apparently, the Lord wanted to remind me to be patient for His timing through this post. I had only intended to write a little about autumn and share a few scriptures pertaining to it, but the Father has been slowly changing my focus from that to verses pertaining to patience and not fainting. Perhaps a reader needed these gentle reminders and encouraging scriptures as much as I did.

I hope that these words are an encouragement to any who read them. 

Things I learned last week

Last week, as ya'll know, I took the whole week off from my computer. I even gave my computer to my brother and asked him to hide it in a safe place so I wouldn't be tempted. Let me say that it was one of the most peaceful weeks of my life. I did actually go through a little withdrawal the first day (which I think was ridiculous), but to be honest, by Sunday, I almost wished I could continue on without my computer. Life was just so much simpler without it. But the reality is that I had pictures to edit, and other things to do for people. I'm still struggling with a few decisions in my life, and praying about what to do about them. 

A little while back, I downloaded a free ebook called Unfriend Yourself. I didn't read it until my computer free week which I'm glad, considering I had a lot to consider and think about during and after reading it.

This book is about all social media, but particularly facebook. I would encourage anyone with a facebook account to read it, and truly contemplate the information it gives. It's written by a Christian young man who did a lot of research not only on what the Bible says about communication but also on scientific research of how people communicate. It took him a year to research and write this simple yet profound 78 page book. He doesn't discourage being involved in social media, just opens your eyes to how we use it, and encourages and gives ideas on how to use social media correctly. 

I bookmarked and highlighted several statements in his book that I'd like to share with my readers. I also did my own Bible study on social media, which I'm going to share quotes from also. 

"Media have a peculiar power to shape and change us as we use them and they use us. Media have great effect on us because they are 'intellectual technologies.' It is our intellectual technologies that have the greatest and most lasting power over what and how we think." 

"Intellectual technologies are our most intimate tools, the ones we use for self-expression and for shaping personal and public identity, and for cultivating relations with others. When intellectual technologies come into popular use, they often promote new ways of thinking or extend to the general population established ways of thinking that had been limited to a small group."

I've definitely seen this as true first hand. The differences in the way a person who uses social media thinks as opposed to someone who doesn't use social media. Often, I've observed, that people who use social media make more allowance for sin to enter their lives from the people they keep in contact with. Things that they would normally not find acceptable are "ok" because it's something an old buddy from the past is involved in. It's allowing sin through the eye gate. Christians have become lax in their standards, convictions and beliefs thanks to seeing it every day on the internet. As Hitler was quoted saying, "Tell a lie loud enough and long enough, and the people will believe it."
 

Psalm 101:2  I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart. 

Psalm 101:3  I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me. 

Psalm 101:4  A froward heart shall depart from me: I will not know a wicked person. 

Psalm 101:5  Whoso privily slandereth his neighbour, him will I cut off: him that hath an high look and a proud heart will not I suffer. 

1 Corinthians 15:33  Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. 

Secondly, Mr. Tennant shows how social media has changed how we as people communicate. 

"Too often we applaud technologies that enable us to exchange information (communication) without attending to those means of sharing that build intimacy and deepen our communion with God and each other. Communication is easy. A simple text is communication, but it is not communion. A wall post is communication, but it is not communion. 

Communion is constructed from two simple, yet profound elements: orality and presence. Orality is'our speaking and listening in person with each other'. Presence is physical, in-the-flesh togetherness. Notice though, that both of these elements dwindle in the world of social media. You may have one (typically orality) but never both. Suddenly, these building blocks are removed, and instead of communing, we are only communicating." 

"Remember, that while orality may continue when we go online, our presence disappears. We leave our bodies behind, and step into a place that is not a place, a world that is not a world. Social media tells us that we can be anywhere, even miles apart from our loved ones, and still be intimate with them. We can still meet them online which we consider a 'there'  and 'place' and find community. But the problem is that 'there' is nowhere at all." 

"If you're spending three, four or five hours a day online, there's got to be somewhere you are not. And that someplace you're not is often with your family and friends-sitting around, playing Scrabble face-to-face, taking a walk, or watching a movie together." 

"The most meaningful things in our lives happen when we are embodied-it is when we live in our flesh and bones that we make memories, build friendships, and live together. Ultimately, our bodies are necessary for us to experience the truest form of life affected by social media: community."   

I realized last week during my media break that I don't call my friends anymore. I always used the excuse that I'm too busy, but then how do I have the time to keep up with social media? That answer would be that I make the time, by neglecting the relationships with my family and friends. I've compromised my relationships by trading in true gems of communion with the cheap knock offs of social media. My communion has dwindled to simple communication. I realized, that if I was honest with myself, that I truly didn't know my friends anymore. And they didn't know me anymore. And that's my fault. 

I was so excited when they came out with facebook and texting because all my friends live pretty far away and I don't have a car to drive and go see them. I thought that I'd finally feel connected with them, and we could enjoy the little moments in each other lives. But now I realize that I was only allowing a counterfeit into my life. 

2 John 1:12  Having many things to write unto you, I would not write with paper and ink: but I trust to come unto you, and speak face to face, that our joy may be full. 

As Mr. Tennant pointed out in his book, writing a letter was the social media of John's time. And yet, even though he did send the people letters, he saved some things to tell them face to face. And he ends the verse with, "that our joy may be full." What exactly does that mean? 

Well, the author gave an assignment. Text a friend about something that happened in your life. Then, tell another friend face to face the same story. Which telling of the story was more enjoyable? I think we all know the answer to that question. Some people I wait to tell something because I love to see the expressions on their face. It brings me joy. 

Thirdly, social media but especially facebook, promotes an-all-about-me attitude. 

"The internet is less a forum for shared public life than an arena for individuals to express their egos and find information in tune with their personal needs and desires. When the network is based on the self, it becomes increasingly difficult to "love one another with a pure heart" (1 Peter 1:22). 

1 Corinthians 13:4  Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, 

 1 Corinthians 13:5  Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; 

"The hallmark value of Christian community is love. Clearly we have a problem when we seek community on a medium that is more about us than it is about others." 

On social media, we can create the ideal version of ourselves. We try to make ourselves seem more witty, appealing, and interesting than we really are. We put our absolute best pictures for a profile picture, and try to make our everyday life sound interesting so that we'll be complemented by others to puff up our pride a little more. We're able to leave out our faults and eccentricities to create a perfect human (which of course, can not exist.) Now, I'm not saying go air out your dirty laundry on facebook, I'm just pointing out the truth. Then, when we see a friend's profile and they seem cooler than us, we get down in the dumps because we become unsatisfied with ourselves. But the truth is, that your friend has faults too, but like you, they're not going to put them online for the world to see. Social media creates two major sins in our lives: Pride and covetousness. 

"Looking someone in the eye is difficult-and is becoming more difficult, I think, as we learn to relate digitally. Being honest is hard, being authentic is sometimes terrifying, and relating in the flesh is risky. Yet, when we take a risk and and engage in communion, we find life's simplest and profoundest pleasure: joy." 

These are just a few of the eye opening bits of information I found in this book. There were many more, but I'd rather if you just read the book for yourself. These were the things that called out to me personally. I'm struggling with the decision of whether to get rid of my facebook account because of my photography business. Most people contact me about photo jobs through facebook, so I'm afraid to miss out on an opportunity because of getting rid of facebook. Of course, that is only an excuse, and I know that if I obey what God wants for my life, that He'll make it happen, and people will contact me through other ways. Please understand, I don't intend for this post to belittle anyone neither am I telling you to get rid of your facebook account. That is totally up to you, and may be something that you need to seek the Lord about and do some soul searching. Ask God to show you your heart and true motives, and determine whether they are godly and honourable. But the ultimate final decision is yours to make.  

I hope that this article is a help to those who read it, as much as it was for me. 

Hiatus

I feel the need to take a week long break from my computer. A hiatus. I've come to really like that word. I'm so in the habit of just turning on my computer and doing stuff I've decided to give my computer to my brother for the week, to make sure I don't cheat. Please, pray for me during this week of soul searching, studying, and listening. 

And to my wonderful readers, have a great week! 

Thankful

Lately, especially in the past week, there have been several little blessings that I'm thankful for. Of course, I'm always thankful for my Lord, my family, my friends, my church, and my ministry, but I consider those big things. Here's the little things that have been sweet little blessings.

a candle that is about as used up as a candle can be, but still burning brightly until I got the chance to get another candle.

The absolutely amazing scent from my favorite candle ever, Autumn Wreath. Cracker Barrel only sells it at this time of year, so it's a yearly treat that I enjoy. 

The new mug I found last night, also from Cracker Barrel. I was browsing through the different mugs when I found this one. This verse, Ecclesiastes 3:1, meant a lot to me during a difficult time of my life about a month ago. Really, it seems to have become my theme verse for this year, a promise to hang on to through my struggles. There's 4 trees on it, representing the 4 seasons. I thought it was perfect for this month, for this time in my life. 

 And really, would life be livable without coffee? My dad says it would, but I'm not so certain. 

Friday I was looking around the clothes section at Walmart, and something told me to look up. This was the very last maxi dress, hanging by itself, in my size, in the style I've been wanting. I've been eyeing this dress all summer, but something told me to wait. It was normal price $20, and the clearance tag said $9. I could live with that. When I got to the register, it was actually $3! I was so pleasantly surprised, and thankful for the Lord's little blessings. 

Then, I was passing through the movie section, and saw a huge box full of $5 Christmas cds. At first I ignored it, because usually I can't find any decent music at Walmart. But as I was passing, I saw the Burl Ives cd. I love his singing, so I picked it up and started looking at the rest of the cds. I found the two Thomas Kinkade cds that have Christmas music played by an orchestra. Then I found the Bing Crosby cd, who I've heard of a little, then I found the Celtic Woman cd. The Bing Crosby and celtic cds have become my favorite. I love Bing Crosby's voice, even though I'm the only one in my family that appreciates his style. And  of course, I love Celtic Woman. My favorite song of their's, "the Voice" is on here, and I would've payed the money if only for that song. I like it that much. :) 

Besides all these little blessings, the Lord has blessed me in an even bigger way. Lately, I've been lonely. I have an empty spot that neither my family nor friends can fill. Most single young ladies know what I mean. So I've been cramming every free moment with reading as many books as I possibly can. As long as I'm in a world of fictional characters, I can forget about my own troubles, at least for a little while. But recently, the Lord's been showing me some things, and I'm becoming, slowly, more content with my single status, and trusting Him more with that area. It couldn't have happened at a better time. Within the past week, I've been given an opportunity to begin a relationship with a young man. As far as I know, this is a respectful, Christian young man. 2 weeks ago, I might have jumped at it, given the opportunity. But it would've been for the wrong reason. Loneliness. I sought the Lord for guidance, but didn't get the go-ahead. As a matter of fact, I only received silence. I made a decision, and after talking to my dad who backed me on it, I refused. I pray that I have made the right decision. One of the reasons why I refused, was due to the fact that I would've had to go meet him. I consider that too forward, and highly improper. By my way of looking at it, if he's interested enough, he'll come to meet me. Although I doubt it will happen, I've told the Lord that I will consider it a sign to consider him again, if he does show up. I know that I've disappointed the people who tried to get us together, but the truth is this. I'm NOT hunting for a husband. As a matter of fact, I'm not even looking for him. I'm praying that he's looking for me. I believe the Lord will allow our paths to cross at the right moment, and not before. I trust that the Lord is very capable of doing that. Also, I have certain things that I want in a husband. I believe that they are biblical, and I refuse to settle. Considering I've waited my whole life for him, as I pray he's done for me. Yes, I do believe there is ONE that God intended just for you.  He did make Eve for Adam after all. The woman is the completer, the help meet. 

Ok, sorry for the ranting. That turned out a lot longer than I intended. But let me say, that I've really revealed a lot of personal information in that last paragraph. I wouldn't have done it, but I felt the Lord leading me to do so. I pray that it might help a reader in a similar situation. 

P.S.

Please pray for me as I continue on this journey. It's so easy to make a wrong decision when it comes to matters of the heart. I'm so thankful for parents and a pastor that care enough about me to tell me the truth, protect me, and back me on my decisions. If you're going through a similar struggle, I'd love to be prayer partners through email. My email is: pawpawsgirl92@hotmail.com if you're interested.

Today......

Today I am typing in comfy, not necessarily flattering clothes....

drinking my second cup of coffee (this morning) out of my Scooby Doo mug I've had forever...

Thinking about the awesome stuff I learned in my Bible College today (yes, it's Saturday, but I love my college work that much)  and the information I can (almost) grasp in my music theory book.....

Smelling my wonderful new candle burning called "Walk in the Woods" which is something I'd LOVE to be doing right now....

Watching the sky out my window getting ready to weep again like it has almost every day for the past three weeks......

Listening to my favorite instrumental cd.......

Thinking about my non-busy schedule for the day, which is:

1. ironing my skirt for church tomorrow

2. maybe working on some posts for the future using a list of post ideas I found from a while back

3. painting my finger nails a soft mauve color 

4. reading a new interesting book

5. cooking hamburgers for dinner

Usually I dislike non-busy days, but today, I'm thankful for it. I'm ready to slow down, have the time to just think and meditate, and not worry. 

Not worry about tomorrow. 

Not worry about what I have to do next.

Not worry about making a deadline, or a busy schedule. 

Not even worry about using perfect grammar, or complete sentences in this post. 

Before I end this random post, I have something to tell ya'll. I have begun to read my first Jane Austen book. When I got my Kindle, I downloaded "Pride and Prejudice," "Emma," and  "Northanger-Abbey." I've heard so much about them, so I've been curious. But I wasn't sure that they would keep my interest. I am now on chapter 7 of "Pride and Prejudice", and I'm amazed by how interested I am. The characters are alive, and entertaining. The Old English way of speaking is beautiful. And so far, my favorite characters are Mr. Bennett (who seriously cracks me up) and Lizzy. Mr. Darcy is a very interesting character, in the way that there's depth. You don't know all about him the first time you meet him, like Mr. Bingley. Mr. Darcy is an intriguing mystery. I like when you learn more about a character as the book goes along. I tried watching the movie, but I found it confusing. So I'll let ya'll know what I think when I finish the book. I may even do a book review. 

What's your favorite Jane Austen book? 

A guest post (of sorts)

I recently had a friend who is not in the blogger world ask if she could do a guest post for me. Of course I said yes, and now I'm thinking about asking other non-blogger friends to do this too. I'm blessed with several   wise and godly friends that have some amazing insights. 

This friend for today's post has asked to remain anonymous, so I'm going to call her by Z (no connection to her real name.) 

So anyways, here's a little devotional that helped me when I read it, and I hope will be a blessing to all who read it. 

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Cut It Out!

                   Wait! Before you decide to skip this article, let me give you a part of a conversation I had recently.

         

I was tangled up in an overgrown bush, cutting away, when I heard an inquisitive voice behind me.

         

          “Whatcha doin'?” (The question that seems to come from younger siblings ALL the time!)

         

          “Well,” I explained, “ I am cutting this bush back, so it will grow and look better. I have to get rid of all the dead branches in it.”

         

          “Oh.  But why did you cut this branch? It has leaves on it! This one isn't dead.”

          “Because the bush didn't need it. It was taking life from other parts of the plant that needed it more.”

                   As I continued to work, I started to realize that God works in my life the same way!  I often have worldly, dead branches in my life, that, although they may not be alive now that I am a Christian, they still sit there and take up space in my life.  They  choke out the good growth in my life, keeping me from being the best that I can be.  They are ugly and they don't like to go, but God can give me power to overcome them!

                   Then there are branches that are alive, but they are growing in the wrong direction. These are things that may not be wrong, but they too take up too much space that should be filled with other things. These branches could be friends,  hobbies, or entertainment. Ouch, these ones really hurt! 

                   Maybe there is a diseased branch in my life. This could be doing what is right in the wrong way. I need to do God's will without deceit, and with the right attitude. This especially applies to music, an area where a lot of people try to play or sing 'Godly' music the world's way. It does not work!! Jealousy , envy, and bitterness are some examples of diseased branches. A diseased part needs to be cut out before it contaminates the whole plant, and maybe others.

                   Finally, there are unsightly branches. There is nothing wrong with these, except that God wants me to grow in another direction, and therefore are unsightly to him. Every branch has a purpose in God's eyes, and I want to be pleasing to him.    

         

                   So this is the accumulation of my thoughts on this, I hope it helps someone else as much as it has me!

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Wow! Thanks so much, Z! 

I just read your devotional again, and was blessed all over again! Especially the Unsightly branches. So often we focus on getting out things in our life that are bad, but we forget to get rid of what's not best! 

And, it runs along the same lines as my last post, where I talked about the unnecessary weights in our life. 

So now I'm opening it up to my readers.

Did this post help you personally? 

Any comments, and I'll be sure to let the authoress know. 

Catching up {Post 2}

My summer has finally begun!

(No, that does not mean that it's just now getting hot where I live. Believe me, we've been having summer heat since mid-April.)

I mean that yesterday Mark FINALLY finished school for the year!

So I finally feel the summer freedom from grading papers and supervising school. Don't get me wrong, I love those things, I just feel that now I can get some extra stuff accomplished. Like working on my book again, getting to read more, having more time to play with my siblings, and simply relax.

I'm not feeling well at the moment, so it makes a good excuse to slow down a bit. Many other members of my family are also either sick or hurting right now, so I'd appreciate if you'd pray for the Tyler family.

Thank you. :)

I've been doing better with sticking with my Bible College lately, and I've been learning a lot.

I'm so glad that I cleared off my desk so I can now actually USE it as a desk.

I'm so thankful that my phone is awesome at also being a music player.

I've discovered that when I do any kind of school or study, I concentrate better with instrumental music in my ears.

As a matter of fact, when the music ends, I immediately begin to have a more difficult time of concentrating.

And of course, coffee is a must. ;)

I use a different color pen every day so I can see how much I've done that day, and where I started and stopped.

Besides, there's just something special about writing with different colored pens, right?

And of course, my beloved brown Rock of Ages Study Bible. I think I'm more attached to it then any other Bible I've ever had. It's so much more personal and dear to me.

I'll admit, that I've always found it difficult to follow a schedule for reading my Bible through. The One Year Bible has been the most effective for me, and I really enjoy it. It was given to me by a friend that preferred going by the schedule,so we each got what was best for us.

Have you ever read your Bible through? Have you used a schedule or the One Year Bible, or just did your own thing? Which was most effective for you?

This seems to be the more serious post, because I'd like to talk about the lessons I learned through the preaching and from experience at camp last week.

^This is Bro. Barnes, one of the main speakers of the week.^ 

It seems like the very first and the very last sermons I heard at Camp were the most meaningful to me. That could very well be because I was so busy for the rest of the week that my head was either still spinning from the busy days during church or that I was falling asleep. (If you've ever been a counselor at camp, you'd understand.)

The first sermon on Monday night was about taking a stand. He said that so many Christians think that they have to be equipped to be able to attack Hell with a squirt gun, or win millions of souls to Christ before they die. But so many times, God repeats this simple, yet difficult command. Stand. Just, stand. It reminds me of the song that says, "If just a cup of water I place within your hand; then just a cup of water is all that I demand." Jesus has equipped us to face the trials of life. He'll never give us something we can't handle.

When we feel like we're overloaded or can barely stand due to the weight of our burdens, it's often from unnecessary weights that we've allowed into our lives. Ungodly friends. Pet sins.Worry. Trying to take over God's job of planning our lives.

He illustrated by piling two other guys on the guy with the blue shirt. It was easier for him to stand with no one on his back, or even with the smaller guy on his back. But when he traded out the smaller guy for the big guy, then even added the smallest guy on top, he could barely stand.

See, God gives us the ability to stand, but the difficulties come when we pile unnecessary weight on ourselves.

The last sermon, or the final charge, was about Stephen, the first martyr of the Bible. It was about how to get God's attention, and get Him excited about what you're doing.

The three ways he mentioned was:

1. Taking a stand
2. Suffering for Christ
3. Forgiving those that don't deserve it.

It was a very inspirational and unforgetable week, for me, and for many others.

So that's the end of Post 2. Next time I'll be sharing a Bible study from a friend.

Have a great day!

Blogging Break

It seems like life has been going by so fast lately.  

Sometimes, you just need to slow down.

I was reminded of this last night, and so today I made a decision. I will be taking a blogging break until next Monday. 

I am still sponsoring the giveaway at Savories of Life, be sure to check it out, and enter for a chance to win some jewelry!

This week is going to be busy. Thursday night we have a guest preacher at our church, and we're going to have a college singing group as well. Today is my friend Kathryne's birthday.

Everybody say, "Happy birthday, Kathryne!" 

(Ok, and it's a crying shame that this is the only picture I have of her. Bad friend.) 

Friday is my brother Mark's 13th birthday ( I DID NOT JUST SAY THAT! There's no way my little brother is gonna be a teenager!) And we'll be going to his favorite restaurant (and mine), Johnny Carino's. :D

Saturday, we'll be in Fenton to help them start moving stuff from the church building. 

Sunday will be our first service (officially) helping in Abbeville. We'll be there for the next 6 months. 

Monday through Wednesday my dad will be off work. Monday we'll be going to the Kart Ranch, sort of a all-in-one celebration for Mark and Rachel's birthdays (Rachel's is in July.) 

Also, my dad said that Monday I'd be (FINALLY) getting a picture ID. Yes, it is way past due. 

So...that's my next week and a half. The busyness is part of the reason for the break, but also because I really need some time with my Father. I'm dedicating this week to doing Bible studies, reading Bible teaching books, reading my Bible more, doing my Bible College, and talking to my Father. Restoring the relationship with Him that has been needing repairs for some time now. I'll also be attempting to memorize some Scripture.

Please do pray for me this week. That I'll draw closer to my Best Friend, that I'll get some answers, and some peace about some things. Lately the preaching and my Bible College have been going hand in hand, and they're definitely showing me something. 

Next week when I come back, I'll announce the winners of the giveaway I sponsored, and hopefully get to share the things I learned.

Have a great week, everyone!

Music School

Every year, my church has a week long music school. It's usually in July, but this year it was in June. Of the 6 years we've had music school, I've only missed 2. One was a few years ago, and the second was this year's. It just caught me off guard how early it was, and so I didn't have the time nor the ride to make it every night. But, I did get to go to the concert on the Friday night, which was last night. 

^ A picture of the amazing cloud formation we saw on the way there. 

^I've always wanted to try taking a picture like this, and last night I finally remembered. I love the result. 

And now, here's some pics of the concert. 

The amazing Bro. Bartlett, who travels 2 hours one way every day for the whole week to teach music school. His grandfather actually wrote the song, "Victory in Jesus", an amazing hymn.

Everybody ready?

My friend Jonathon, A.K.A. AMAZING pianist.

directing in action. :) 

It was one of those times I REALLY wished that my camera had video. Because they did soooo awesome. The choir has grown so much. I remember when we first started the choir. We've really come a long way. I wish more people would've been able to come, and witness the fruit of their hard work. 

This Sunday we'll be at our home church, before going out for another 6 months to help another church. Ok, I really need to get some stuff off my chest, if ya'll don't mind. 

My dad was right. 

While we always love and appreciate being in the ministry, it has gotten tougher. I don't mean that we don't want to go out and help, I mean the things we've witnessed. The pain and the suffering these pastors and their families go through. As we stand, as my dad says, in the middle of the crossfire, we can't help but feel the pain. We've been on the road for 5 years, and during that time we've helped 8 churches, not counting our home church. During that time, we've witnessed two churches close their doors, and besides those two, 2 pastors step down from pastoring. We watched as a pastor's family exploded, and fell apart. 

Last Sunday was the final service of the church we've been helping for the past 6 months. No, I don't think we wasted our time. I'm glad we were there to support the pastor and his wife. But watching the pain in his eyes as member after member left, for one reason or another. As he faithfully went out doorknocking in the community every week, giving the gospel every day at work. And the church only wilted. I know that God has a plan, and I'm so extremely thankful that this pastor and his wife are going join and help another pastor in the area. They're not giving up, just moving on to what the Lord has planned next for their lives. 

But my point for sharing is this. Love your pastor. Love your pastor's wife. Don't talk bad about them to other members. Don't criticize and judge them. They go through more then you'll ever be able to understand, unless one day you become a pastor or pastor's wife. When you go to church tomorrow, walk up to them, and tell them how much you love them. Write a note, with encouraging Scripture in it. Encourage them to stay in the fight. 

I'm crying as I type this, remembering all the hurt I've witnessed in this ministry. I asked God why we always seem to be at a church when all the bad things happen. When the doors close. When the pastor leaves. When a member tells off the pastor. Why does it almost seem that all the bad things happen while we are there? Then the Lord gently reminded me of our ministry's purpose. A Pastor's Friend. Going to a church doesn't mean that the church will experience a humongous growth of members, or see a bunch of people saved. No. God has called us into the ministry of exhorting the brethren....when they need it most. When they're hurting and we're hurting...I now realize that it is a comfort to have someone to hurt with. Someone that has witnessed everything, and truly understands what you're feeling, because they're feeling it along with you. We weren't called into a ministry of understanding everything God has planned. We're called to hurt with the hurting. Bear another's burden.

So please, I beg you. Encourage your pastor and his family. Don't just take for granted that they know you love them. Tell them you love them. Show them you love them.

When your tempted to gripe (and What I wore Sunday)

I just got excited about something, only to be disappointed. So I'll admit, I'm VERY tempted to gripe right now. The best medicine I know of for a griping attitude is thankfulness. So I'm going to share yesterday's outfit, along with some things I'm thankful for. 

This is the dress I've been talking about. I got it for $16 at Walmart, and there's plenty more cute dresses over there.

belting. :)

This is the necklace I made that was inspired from Anna at IHOD

Diego, my trusty SLR. A post on him coming up!

I LOVE the pattern on this dress! 

So, I'm tempted to complain that I don't have the money to get another cute dress like this, but instead, I'm going to be thankful for this lovely dress that I have. :)

My dad got to preach in Abbeville for all the services yesterday. I know he had a blast. I'm so thankful to have a dad that loves to serve the Lord, and is always ready to change HIS plans for whatever the Lord wants. There's so much I need to learn from him. 

On the way home, I was sooo thankful that I brought my camera. The past two nights I've been taking sunset pictures. I'm discovering that no two sunsets are exactly alike. So as we were riding back, I saw this amazing sight.

The sun looked red, and beautiful. I couldn't get the exact picture I wanted, but I'm thankful for what I did get. 

I love the fact that not only do I get to learn so much from the sermons at church, but I also have the privilege of my Father, my Best Friend, taking the time every day to teach me life lessons. I'm thankful for my wonderful family, that I grow closer to every day. I'm thankful for awesome friends that are there for me. And I'm thankful for the privilege to get to share the Gospel with someone. Please pray for a young man that is allowing me to share God's wonderful plan for mankind.

What are you thankful for today?

Did you learn something at church, or has your Heavenly Father taught you something lately?