Random Tuesday

First of all ~ I hate blogging when I ask people to do something (i.e. donate money to a cause). I'm not asking for donations, but I am asking for your votes. Below is an email I received this evening from a friend:

Dear Family & Friends,

Over the last two years Defining Media LLC has been producing the documentary Defining Beauty: Ms. Wheelchair America. The team is now heading into the final stages of post-production for the documentary and has been selected as a finalist in the Pepsi Refresh Challenge for the month of May. They’re in the running for $25,000 in finishing funds that will be the needed financial push to bring this film to reality – bringing all the important messages that Ms. Wheelchair America stands for to the greater public.

This is the final week of the Pepsi Challenge and they/we need your help. Right now DEFINING BEAUTY is ranked 117^th, they need to drop to the top 10 to win. In the first week they joined the challenge they went from 224^th to 80^th in three days so I really believe that they can get into the top 10, but only if all our contacts are tapped.

First, please register and vote here:

http://www.refresheverything.com/definingbeauty

Then, VOTE EVERY DAY until May 31^st.

Finally, send this message to all those that you think are in support of advocacy and change for the disabled and able-bodied communities across the United States

I was part of Ms. Wheelchair Nebraska for 5 years before moving to Kansas. It is so near and dear to my heart and these women are the most AMAZING people I've ever met. If you'll remember, I blogged about my friend, Crystal, eons ago. Your votes are appreciated! I had so much on my mind tonight, but I so need to find my pillow. Good night, all!

Playground

This morning I was watching my church kids run around the playground. I started thinking about when I was little and we'd get the swing going super high and then jump off. Now days adults freak when kids do this, and I find myself getting all motherly.

Remember when we had the metal slides and during the summer you'd burn your butt (literally) going down?! The tricks just to get down without getting hurt. Or flying across the metal monkey bars to get to the other side of the jungle gym...

It's so crazy how much the little things change sometimes. What playground equipment do you remember?

No More Excuses

I read a wonderful blog about body and Biggest Loser at Goddess in Progress and it got me thinking about my own struggle. *If you have yet to watch last week's Biggest Loser, exit now!*

Last week Daris had a struggle with food and ate way too much and gained 2 lbs the month that he was at home, despite the fact that he was training for a marathon at the same time. It's a mental thing, I get it. It doesn't matter how hard you've worked or how good you've been, you daily make choices. So Daris and Koli were below the yellow line and it's up to America to vote their favorite into the top 3. I voted for Daris, not only because I get his thinking, but he's cute! I mean really. :) Koli drives me bonkers because he is so consumed with winning the game, I think he needs to be knocked down a few pegs.

Recently I joined a 5k run/walk team. I thought it might be the motivation I need. In the next couple of days, I'm going to be starting Couch to 5k. I was going to start today, but I ended up painting all day and I'm sore from going up and down the ladder. Lame? Maybe, but at least I was being productive. Right? :)

Now - must sleep so I can chase kids in the morning!

Season of Lent

A month ago I experienced one of THE most emotional Ash Wednesday services in my life. Being raised a Lutheran, I've gone to plenty of Ash Wednesday Services, but this time, my heart was different. The congregation wrote on a piece of paper what we were giving up. As I wrote down my sacrifice for the next 40 days and left the piece of paper at the cross, I cried. Maybe it was the realization, that this time, I was truly MAKING a sacrifice. Completely getting the sacrifice that God gave for me. For us. My sacrifice was fast food. If you know me and what my schedule entails, this, indeed, is a sacrifice.

As Lent has progressed, Christi and I have had conversations about what God is trying to tell us. My message has been forgiveness. I don't usually have a problem forgiving, but as of late there has been two. I've been to conferences, church, etc. and every time I attend, the message is forgiveness. Yes, Christi, I get it. :) So... God and I are working on it. That's all I can say for now.

With 9 days left until Easter, this week being Holy Week, I can't wait to see what God has in store for the rest of the year! God is shaking me and working in my heart like He's never done before.

Six Word Saturday

Here's how it works: describe your life -or something- in six words. Explain or don't, either way, have fun! Visit Cate at Show My Face to read all about it and get started! :)

Worship in beautiful weather is great!

I'm spending the weekend in Branson, Missouri at Young Christians Weekend, taking place at Silver Dollar City. Today was gorgeous and sunny, until late afternoon when a short thunderstorm rolled through... although the promise of a double rainbow that took place after just completed the day.

Six Word Saturday

Here's how it works: describe your life -or something- in six words. Explain or don't, either way, have fun! Visit Cate at Show My Face to read all about it and get started! :)

Girls + sleepover = I need a nap!

My Heart...

It's been awhile. I'll apologize later for my absence in the blog world. Right now I need to share my heart with someone. Anyone. After yesterdays earthquake in Haiti, my heart is numb and emotional. I was in Haiti less than a year ago.. in Jacmel, which is approximately 25 miles from Port-Au-Prince. Jacmel has hotels and buildings down all over town. The news right now is that the orphanage of the Hands and Feet Project is ok. No damage, although they've been sleeping outside for fear of aftershocks. Even today they were having aftershocks that measure over 5.0.

Today on K-Love they had a Haitian Pastor call in to the morning show. He led a prayer that brought me to tears. I feel so helpless...

What can I do? I've been praying continually. I feel like it's not enough. I wish I had money to make a giant donation to help. Here's the thing... as Christians, we're called to take care of the orphans and widows. All of us need to do SOMETHING. We need to respond and put our faith where our mouth is and help. I'm not saying you have to send a ton of cash. If each person sends $5 or $10, it will make a difference.

There are many missionaries and U.S. groups over there that need our prayers. Their families need prayers for strength that their loved ones will be ok. Along with missionaries, there are many organizations over there as well. If you feel led to make a donation to help one of these organizations, please go to K-Love Radio website and view the list... or you can go to the website for Hands and Feet Project and make a donation directly to them.

Go... and be the hands and feet of Christ. Show the love of God, maybe to someone who doesn't know Him...

Six Word Saturday

Here's how it works: describe your life -or something- in six words. Explain or don't, either way, have fun! Visit Cate at Show My Face to read all about it and get started! :)

Sad day, prayers appreciated for family.

Today my roommate's niece and her husband are removing the respirator from their four day old daughter. Prayers are definitely welcome for this trying time for the family. The decision was not made lightly, and frankly was the most unselfish thing they could have done.

Why?

For the last couple of days I've been praying for a new family, my roommate's niece and her husband. They're young... just 18... and had their first child on Tuesday. Yesterday that found out that she has a chromosonal disorder that affects the brain and lungs. She would be on a respirator her whole life.

Today I'm trying to comprehend. To understand what God has planned for taking this newborn baby. I'm searching for the peace that exceeds my understanding (Phil 4:7). I'm one of those people that tries to analyze what God is up to... what's His plan?

If you could all join me in prayer for this young newlywed couple, it would be much appreciated.

How is Your Attitude of Gratitude?

That's what the sign on my church said this week. So I've been thinking about that attitude. I must admit it hasn't been the most gracious.... Too often I think about the things I need.. like my car being fixed, a part time job, etc rather than focusing on the things right in my life and what I'm thankful to God for giving me. While I'm hoping that each one of you have the BEST Thanksgiving, spending it with those you love, here is what I'm thankful for:

1. My family ... My relationship with them is getting better all the time. I've talked to my mom three or four times this week and don't want to kill her. :)

2. My friends ... I have the most amazing people in my life and I am blessed to call them my friends.

3. My job ... There are so many people who were without jobs this year and I'm very fortunate to have one!

4. "My kids" ... I know I sound like a broken record when it comes to my kids, but I am continually blessed by them. I love when I'm teaching them about the love of Jesus - THEY end up teaching me about their perspective; and it's so much sweeter than mine.

5. My car ... even though it definitely needs some work, I have something to get me to that job I'm so grateful for!

6. My church family AND my coworkers ... From the moment I stepped in, they welcomed me with open arms and have not let me down since.


the silly stuff ...

7. Baseball ... Seven months of the year when I can turn on the tv or go to a stadium and escape reality, while watching cute men run the bases.

8. FRIENDS ... No matter how many times I watch them, it never gets old. Have you had your Friends moment of the day?

9. David Cook, Josh Groban, and Rob Thomas ... Turning on my mp3 player has never sounded so good... I wish it played video though! :)

10. Facebook ... I love finding people from my past - including the woman who babysat me when I was younger!


Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!!! Take time to reflect your attitude of gratitude today.

Six Word Saturday

Here's how it works: describe your life -or something- in six words. Explain or don't, either way, have fun! Visit Cate at Show My Face to read all about it and get started! :)

Hopefully doing absolutely nothing this weekend!

I've been sick all week, staying home a total of 3 days this week and last. I'm pretty excited about this whole doing nothing business. :) Need to rest my voice, which there is still none.

I never thought I'd...

I've been trying to write this blog all week... In honor of my birthday, I thought I'd share a few things in my life that I never thought I'd do.

1. I never thought I'd be doing crafts until 11 pm on a Friday night before a church event - but I do it several times a year.
2. I never thought I'd go on a mission's trip to Haiti - but I did in April and it was an amazing trip!
3. I never thought I'd call someone else's kids "my kids" - but I do at least twice a week. I'm constantly being blessed by them.
4. I never thought I'd enjoy spending so much time with kids - I miss them when I can't see them and I wouldn't imagine it any other way!
5. I never thought I'd have a job that I enjoy, with great coworkers - I actually look forward to going to work! What a concept. :)
6. I never thought I'd miss getting birthday cards. It's Saturday and I've gotten none. ZERO.
7. A few years ago, I never thought I'd move out of Nebraska. Three years ago I moved to the Kansas City area and without a doubt in my mind, it has been the best thing I've ever done.

There are also days in my plan when I never thought I'd be almost 30 and single with no kids. I know it's not my plan, but it's in God's time. I enjoy my life, but I'm not content. I am a firm believer that God has better things planned for me; bigger and better than I ever could have imagined or planned for myself.

Six Word Saturday

Here's how it works: describe your life -or something- in six words. Explain or don't, either way, have fun! Visit Cate at Show My Face to read all about it and get started! :)

Can't talk + busy weekend = muy frustrating!

Not Me Monday

Not Me! Monday was created by MckMama. Check her blog to see what she is NOT up to and to get started!

I did NOT enjoy the Children's Pastor/Leader retreat this past weekend. The people there were NOT fun and we did NOT have a good time!

I have NOT been busy NOT planning my birthday party for this weekend... I'm spending it NOT relaxing.

I have also NOT skipped Not Me Mondays the last couple weeks... I have NOT been busy!!!! :) As my bedtime nears, I can NOT think of what else I did NOT do this week!

What have you NOT done this week?

Six Word Saturday

Here's how it works: describe your life -or something- in six words. Explain or don't, either way, have fun! Visit Cate at Show My Face to read all about it and get started! :)

Children's Leader retreat = Much needed overnight!

Picture of the week...

Yup, you guessed it... :) Me and Jeremy Camp... ahhh, isn't he heavenly? :)

Oy!

{In a text to my mom}


Me: I found a gray hair!!!!
Mom: Poor thang
Me:I'm too young for that! LOL
Mom: Better color blonde.. can't tell then
Me: Thanks momma
Mom: Just thought I'd help


Oh my gosh!!!! I'm not even 30 yet.... gray hair......ahhh!!! I can't do it!!!

Six Word Saturday

Here's how it works: describe your life -or something- in six words. Explain or don't, either way, have fun! Visit Cate at Show My Face to read all about it and get started! :)

Waiting to see the little creatures!

Now I lay me down to sleep...

Today, I had a little breakdown with God. Listening to K-Love on the way home, I began worshiping and praying. When was the last time you prayed like a child? By that I mean... literally kneeling and praying innocently for everyone else but yourself? I couldn't tell you the last time I prayed like that. Lately, I've been feeling a tad guilty about my prayer requests that I make known to God. I believe He knows our hearts, so we might as well ask, right?

My breakdown was about my prayers. The things I ask for, but never getting anywhere. God's probably telling me to wait and be patient, but I'm not listening like normal. My breakdown was about the life I lead - and am I really being Christ-like? I think I'm a faithful servant. I hope I am. Am I good steward? Most certainly not. I wish I could give people even HALF the grace that Christ gives us. Of course I sin, and I ask forgiveness. Being the human I am, I always take it back. I give Christ my life, everything... and always take it back.

I sat in my driveway, crying, pouring my heart out to Him, apologizing for the things I do and the things I don't, but should. Trying not to make deals with Him, because that's not how He works.

Maybe tonight, I'll try praying like a child. Tomorrow, I want my faith to be like that of a child. I want to be on fire for my relationship with God, making a difference in His kingdom.

Six Words

Here's how it works: describe your life -or something- in six words. Explain or don't, either way, have fun! Visit Cate at Show My Face to read all about it and get started! :)

Wedding today; Hope I don't cry!

I'm a sucker for weddings. Over the summer I went to the wedding of my roommate's niece.. I know the family and our Pastor was officiating... I cried and announced that he was NOT doing my wedding when the day comes. :) Last weekend I went to the wedding of my dear friend, AnneMarie. You guessed it... cried. Only 3.. or 6 times. Have a great weekend everyone!!