NaBloPoMo is now over. Done, finished, the end.
Wipe the sweat from the brow, we have made it. Whew. Packing, moving, NaBloPoMo-ing...no wonder November went so quickly.
By the way go see Blindside, excellent movie.
Nov 30, 2009
Nov 29, 2009
Nov 28, 2009
Nov 27, 2009
What a tease
We have a house, it's waiting for us to enter in. Our belongings arrive Tuesday. What.a.tease. We're ready for our own space, ready for our own beds, but no, it is not to be for another few days. Until then, we will be cleaning, which is considerably easier without any furniture in the way. The house will shine, then we'll move it in and track in dirt as we do. And so it goes with living.
Nov 26, 2009
Closed!
Whew, I got through the closing yesterday, barely. The stack of papers was daunting, but I stretched my hand out, grabbed a pen, and was ready to go. I'm pretty sure I signed my name in record time, and I listened to the explanation of each paper I was signing, occassionally. We were wrapping things up, all was going well, and then I was asked how I was going to pay. And so began the adventure. We were told to make sure to have a check, I had one. Little did we know that a personal check would not suffice due to the amount we had to pay for closing. Oh dang. At some point, I'm sure the thought crossed my mind that we would need something other than a personal check, but we did not know final costs until yesterday. I'm pretty sure banks are not in the habit of writing out blank cashier's checks or anything of the like anyway. Granted, I don't know for sure, but it makes sense.
Panic began rising. Oh dang.
I was given the suggestion to call our bank, back in Tennessee, to see if they could wire the money. The person I needed to speak to was in a meeting in which he "could not be disturbed," so I got to sit and wait for his return call. Unfortunately, he did call. To say he was a jerk is an understatement. To say I wanted to reach through the phone and grab him by the throat doesn't quite explain my feelings toward him. I shared the situation, here's a brief run down of the conversation from there:
Me - I just signed closing papers on a house, in Texas, and need the closing costs wired.
Jerk - We can only wire money if you are here in person.
Me - So there are no other options? I can't fax you a form with my signature?
Jerk - You can go to a branch there and have it wired.
Me (trying not to get too worked up because clearly he thinks I'm a total idiot)- There aren't any here. If there were, I would be there, not on the phone with you.
Jerk - Sorry, we can't wire money unless you are here in person.
Me - Basically, you are going to be of no help to me then.
Jerk - Well, if I were you, this is what I would do...
From there, he launched into a nice story of how I should call the lender and blah blah blah. Since he has no clue the laws in Texas differ a bit from in Tennessee, his idea was junk. And his tone? Oh.my.goodness. This is where I went right off the edge of niceness. The fact he spoke with such an arrogant, condescending tone towards me made his inability to help that much worse. Granted, this is a situation we should have been more prepared for, but moving across the country the week of Thanksgiving kept us a tad bit busy. He was in the middle of a sentence and I hung up on him because very unkind words (those I would have had to repent for) would have flown forth from my mouth. In that moment, I also vowed we will bank at a local bank here, no more big branches that have forgotten about customer service.
I immediately called Andy, who had begun his trek west. I asked him where he was, and he only responded with, "Driving on 40." Nice dear, I need to know where on 40. I finally figured out where he was, which was thankfully still in TN and not yet to Memphis, and told him he needed to find a Regions Bank in Jackson ASAP to get this wire finished. My knight in shining armor came through, again. He found a bank and began explaining to the man who does the money wires (did you know each bank has one person in charge of this?), and I told him just to hand the phone over. I gave the information to the man (who was also very nice), and the money arrived in "record time". Wipe the sweat from the brow, we are done friends! Oh, I forgot to mention Andy arrived at the bank at 3:30pm, and domestic wires end at 4:00pm. Divine intervention? Maybe a bit.
But alas, the adventure came to a close, we are no longer homeless, and Andy is on his way here (hurry honey, hurry!). My mom and I will be going over to the house this weekend to do some cleaning and preparations for when our belongings arrive on Tuesday. Speaking of which, who's helping us move in????
Happy Thanksgiving friends. Thank you for the prayers and words of encouragement as we have gone through this move. They have meant more than you know.
Panic began rising. Oh dang.
I was given the suggestion to call our bank, back in Tennessee, to see if they could wire the money. The person I needed to speak to was in a meeting in which he "could not be disturbed," so I got to sit and wait for his return call. Unfortunately, he did call. To say he was a jerk is an understatement. To say I wanted to reach through the phone and grab him by the throat doesn't quite explain my feelings toward him. I shared the situation, here's a brief run down of the conversation from there:
Me - I just signed closing papers on a house, in Texas, and need the closing costs wired.
Jerk - We can only wire money if you are here in person.
Me - So there are no other options? I can't fax you a form with my signature?
Jerk - You can go to a branch there and have it wired.
Me (trying not to get too worked up because clearly he thinks I'm a total idiot)- There aren't any here. If there were, I would be there, not on the phone with you.
Jerk - Sorry, we can't wire money unless you are here in person.
Me - Basically, you are going to be of no help to me then.
Jerk - Well, if I were you, this is what I would do...
From there, he launched into a nice story of how I should call the lender and blah blah blah. Since he has no clue the laws in Texas differ a bit from in Tennessee, his idea was junk. And his tone? Oh.my.goodness. This is where I went right off the edge of niceness. The fact he spoke with such an arrogant, condescending tone towards me made his inability to help that much worse. Granted, this is a situation we should have been more prepared for, but moving across the country the week of Thanksgiving kept us a tad bit busy. He was in the middle of a sentence and I hung up on him because very unkind words (those I would have had to repent for) would have flown forth from my mouth. In that moment, I also vowed we will bank at a local bank here, no more big branches that have forgotten about customer service.
I immediately called Andy, who had begun his trek west. I asked him where he was, and he only responded with, "Driving on 40." Nice dear, I need to know where on 40. I finally figured out where he was, which was thankfully still in TN and not yet to Memphis, and told him he needed to find a Regions Bank in Jackson ASAP to get this wire finished. My knight in shining armor came through, again. He found a bank and began explaining to the man who does the money wires (did you know each bank has one person in charge of this?), and I told him just to hand the phone over. I gave the information to the man (who was also very nice), and the money arrived in "record time". Wipe the sweat from the brow, we are done friends! Oh, I forgot to mention Andy arrived at the bank at 3:30pm, and domestic wires end at 4:00pm. Divine intervention? Maybe a bit.
But alas, the adventure came to a close, we are no longer homeless, and Andy is on his way here (hurry honey, hurry!). My mom and I will be going over to the house this weekend to do some cleaning and preparations for when our belongings arrive on Tuesday. Speaking of which, who's helping us move in????
Happy Thanksgiving friends. Thank you for the prayers and words of encouragement as we have gone through this move. They have meant more than you know.
Nov 25, 2009
Exodus 14:14 - WFW
Exodus 14:14 - WFW
Originally uploaded by chelled.
Exodus 14:14Originally uploaded by chelled.
The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.
Sunday morning, as we were preparing for our final day at Strong Tower, I came across the above verse. I had to smile as I thought about the last few months, and how true the words of Exodus 14:14 are. God took care of everything, every detail, and is continuing to do so.
In July, we placed our house on the market and went through the many ups and downs that entails. I cleaned everyday (you know I have a toddler, right?); we made sure to be ready at any given moment should somone want to view the house. We prayed, we waited, we prayed, we waited.
During that time of waiting, we were able to watch God restore the marriage of good friends. They were on the verge of divorce, but we were able to see a miracle happen, and it has been amazing everyday since. If God had answered our prayer when we wanted, we would not have had a front row seat to that miracle.
We were able, during the waiting, to welcome a friend's little boy into the world, to celebrate another friend's second birthday, and so many other little moments that make life wonderful. Because of God's timing, we heard beautiful testmonies of adoption that members of our church family experienced.
God did, is doing, all the work. And we? We have only had to be still and trust in His leading, in His timing. This has been a season of learning and growth, and as I prayed in the beginning, God has shown himself off. And that makes it all worth it.
Be blessed today, and for more, wonderful Word Filled Wednesday posts visit Susan.
Nov 24, 2009
Landed
The girl and I made it safely to Texas. She's an amazing traveler, and made many friends along the way. Any person within her sight became a possible "high five" opportunity. She's a funny one that girl of mine.
As the plane began it's takeoff from Nashville, I said, "Say bye bye to Nashville sweetie." Wow, mistake. Tears welled up in my eyes as a flood of memories came to mind. It's hard to put into words how I am feeling right now. Mainly because it still feels like I'm merely visiting because we won't move into our house until next week, and partly because I'm still trying to process everything.
What I know to be true is that we are blessed, richly. God did a good, very good, thing during our time in Tennessee, and I know He will continue to do so here. Our lives are filled with some of the most amazing human beings ever created, people who serve well, love deeply, and are filled with joy. They have been our family away from home and have cared for us well. Life is beautiful, thanks to the people in it.
As the plane began it's takeoff from Nashville, I said, "Say bye bye to Nashville sweetie." Wow, mistake. Tears welled up in my eyes as a flood of memories came to mind. It's hard to put into words how I am feeling right now. Mainly because it still feels like I'm merely visiting because we won't move into our house until next week, and partly because I'm still trying to process everything.
What I know to be true is that we are blessed, richly. God did a good, very good, thing during our time in Tennessee, and I know He will continue to do so here. Our lives are filled with some of the most amazing human beings ever created, people who serve well, love deeply, and are filled with joy. They have been our family away from home and have cared for us well. Life is beautiful, thanks to the people in it.
Nov 23, 2009
Ready or not
Texas, here we come!
More ponderings later, for now, there are still a few things that need my attention before I fly out of here!
More ponderings later, for now, there are still a few things that need my attention before I fly out of here!
Nov 22, 2009
To our church
The following is the letter I gave to our Pastor, and tells how deeply we have loved being a part of the Strong Tower family.
Strong Tower Pastors, Staff, and Family,
It is with great excitement that we announce we are moving to Lubbock, Texas. Although this means the beginning of a new chapter in our lives, we are aware of the fact another must now close.
For the past six years, STBC has been home for us (even longer for Andy), and we have been blessed beyond measure. Strong Tower is the church that rejoiced with us in our wedding and, years later, the birth of our daughter. You wept with us and held us up when Michelle’s nephew died and when Andy’s mother had a stroke. You have helped us to discover and work in our spiritual gifts, and you have helped strengthen our weaknesses. The Strong Tower family has walked beside us for the last 6 years with support, encouragement, accountability, and a love that has prompted our growth individually and as a family.
We would like to thank the Strong Tower pastors and staff for their leadership and dedication to God’s infallible word. We consider ourselves blessed to have been under your leadership and care, and thank you for being bold in His word, gentle in your rebuke, and compassionate to God’s people. We will continue to pray for each of you as you lead and guide the Strong Tower family.
Although we are excited about what lies ahead of us, we know our hearts will miss Strong Tower Bible Church. We look forward to serving God in Texas, in the church He has for us, and in the places in need of all that we have learned here. We will be forever thankful for Strong Tower, our precious family. It has been a joy to sit with you each Sunday, in the “living room” to praise our heavenly Father together. Thank you for being a part of our story, and for making it more beautiful.
Strong Tower Pastors, Staff, and Family,
It is with great excitement that we announce we are moving to Lubbock, Texas. Although this means the beginning of a new chapter in our lives, we are aware of the fact another must now close.
For the past six years, STBC has been home for us (even longer for Andy), and we have been blessed beyond measure. Strong Tower is the church that rejoiced with us in our wedding and, years later, the birth of our daughter. You wept with us and held us up when Michelle’s nephew died and when Andy’s mother had a stroke. You have helped us to discover and work in our spiritual gifts, and you have helped strengthen our weaknesses. The Strong Tower family has walked beside us for the last 6 years with support, encouragement, accountability, and a love that has prompted our growth individually and as a family.
We would like to thank the Strong Tower pastors and staff for their leadership and dedication to God’s infallible word. We consider ourselves blessed to have been under your leadership and care, and thank you for being bold in His word, gentle in your rebuke, and compassionate to God’s people. We will continue to pray for each of you as you lead and guide the Strong Tower family.
Although we are excited about what lies ahead of us, we know our hearts will miss Strong Tower Bible Church. We look forward to serving God in Texas, in the church He has for us, and in the places in need of all that we have learned here. We will be forever thankful for Strong Tower, our precious family. It has been a joy to sit with you each Sunday, in the “living room” to praise our heavenly Father together. Thank you for being a part of our story, and for making it more beautiful.
Nov 21, 2009
Nov 20, 2009
Last weekend
This will be our last weekend in Tennessee, wow wow wow. I can't believe moving day is approaching so quickly. Nor can I believe I am sitting here at the computer when I should be packing. Well, I guess that last part isn't so hard to imagine.
Today was the last day for me to enjoy the crazy workouts, the wild D1 field, and the very humorous Carter. As a good-bye gift, Carter had everyone sign a D1 shirt for me (which I love, but man I wish I had a shirt like the one they wrote on to wear, it's so cool). One guy wrote on there, "I hated getting beat by a girl." Reading that had me laughing out loud, and feeling rather proud. I will miss that place, and those workouts. More than anything I will miss that team atmosphere, one that respected the level each person was at, but that challenged each person to go further. There is power in numbers, and the encouragement that happens at that place, at that hour, is truly incredible.
And with that, it's time for me to pack at least one box. This weekend will be crazy enough, and my procrastination certainly isn't helping anything.
Today was the last day for me to enjoy the crazy workouts, the wild D1 field, and the very humorous Carter. As a good-bye gift, Carter had everyone sign a D1 shirt for me (which I love, but man I wish I had a shirt like the one they wrote on to wear, it's so cool). One guy wrote on there, "I hated getting beat by a girl." Reading that had me laughing out loud, and feeling rather proud. I will miss that place, and those workouts. More than anything I will miss that team atmosphere, one that respected the level each person was at, but that challenged each person to go further. There is power in numbers, and the encouragement that happens at that place, at that hour, is truly incredible.
And with that, it's time for me to pack at least one box. This weekend will be crazy enough, and my procrastination certainly isn't helping anything.
Nov 19, 2009
Thursday's Thinkings
- My daughter has an ear infection AND the flu. Let's see, uh, no, that was not on my checklist of things to do before we fly out Monday. Luckily, she's still her easy going, happy self, and I'm thankful we are treating both before getting on the plane!
- Today is my last day at ATI...sad
- This time next week, we'll be celebrating Thanksgiving with my family, in Texas, where we'll be living. Strange.
- We were told our loan was processed in under two weeks, which is "unheard of." HA! Not when God is the one orchestrating it all. So sweet.
- No, the house is not all packed up yet. Duh, it's not Sunday.
- I have a babysitter coming to stay with my girl while I go to ATI. Does that make me the worst mother ever? Probably so, but I trust the sitter as much as I do family, so all should be well.
- Yesterday we had lunch with our pastor and his wife, oh man, what a glorious time!
- Hmmm, what else am I thinking? I guess nothing, so, farewell friends.
Nov 18, 2009
Ps 45:11 - WFW
Ps 45:11 - WFW
Originally uploaded by chelled.
Psalm 45:11 Originally uploaded by chelled.
The king is enthralled by your beauty; honor him, for he is your lord.
Yesterday, I was able to have lunch with the two beautiful women beside me in the picture above. It was a beautiful time together, filled with great conversation and many laughs. Jen told us she'll be teaching a group of highschool girls at her home church the next two Sundays, and we began to unfold what she would be discussing. She said the one thing she knows is she will be using Psalm 45:11, and so began the good discussion.
We began discussing that not many people really understand the depth of the words found in Psalm 45:11. The king is enthralled...that is deep. But, we first have to understand the meaning of the word, so here we go:
According to dictionary.com, enthralled means to captivate or charm.
Do you get what the Lord, the Creator of this universe is saying? YOU captivate HIM! The one who breathed life into the entire world, is captivated by YOU. If only we walked through life with that knowledge in the forefront of our minds!
I told them about the day my daughter's beauty took my breath away. We were playing on the floor, nothing spectacular, just playing. As I watched her play, and studied her profile, my eyes filled with tears. I looked at her and was taken, fully, by her beauty. The shape of her eyes, the softness of her skin, the flow of her features, I was enthralled. Then, God gently whispered to me, "Child, that is how I feel about you!" The tears flowed from eyes at that point, and I began praying that my daughter finds her beauty in the eyes of her Lord, not by the judgement of society.
We began discussing ways females tend to try to find confirmation of their beauty and worth, the circumstances they find themselves in based solely on a desire to be wanted, circumstances we have found ourselves in. Thankfully, there is mercy and grace, and a road filled with both heartache and joy that has led the three of us into realizing, fully, that our God is enthralled by us, that He has already deemed us worthy and valuable, and beautiful.
My mind is still processing the discussion I was blessed to be a part of, and my heart is trying to wrap itself around these verses. I pray you each go through your day knowing our God is enthralled by you, you can stop comparing yourself, stop hating your imperfections. Your creator is well pleased with you child.
Be blessed today, and for more, wonderful Word Filled Wednesday posts visit http://crittyjoy.typepad.com/.
Nov 17, 2009
A Coming King
A Coming King (Video #3): He Is YHWH from mshane kuhn on Vimeo.
A friend of mine is putting these together, and I had to share one here. Go, check them all out (17 so far). Be inspired, be encouraged, and know you are loved!
Be happy!
Nov 16, 2009
Ponder This
My argument against God was that the universe seemed so cruel and unjust. But how had I got this idea of just and unjust? A man does not call a line crooked unless he has some idea of a straight line. What was I comparing this universe with when I called it unjust? If the whole show was bad and senseless from A to Z, so to speak, why did I, who was supposed to be part of the show, find myself in such a violent reaction against it?... Of course I could have given up my idea of justice by saying it was nothing but a private idea of my own. But if i did that, then my argument against God collapsed too--for the argument depended on saying the world was really unjust, not simply that it did not happen to please my fancies. Thus, in the very act of trying to prove that God did not exist - in other words, that the whole of reality was senseless - I found I was forced to assume that one part of reality - namely my idea of justice - was full of sense. If the whole universe has no meaning, we should never have found out that it has no meaning: just as, if there were no light in the universe and therefore no creatures with eyes, we should never have known it was dark. Dark would be without meaning. -- C.S. Lewis
Nov 15, 2009
Nov 14, 2009
Celebrating
We spent our afternoon celebrating the 2nd birthday of our friend, London. When we first decided to move, we were told we couldn't go until we helped celebrate London's birthday. Well, I am happy, more than happy, we were able to do just that. Sweet London, and her parents, will forever be wonderful blessings in our lives.
Happy birthday sweet London, we love you.
Nov 13, 2009
My day in court
This morning, the girl and I had the joy of heading down to the courthouse. Remember this? Yes, that's the reason we were there. The courtroom was packed, and my bad attitude for having to be there only increased as I began imagining how long everything would take. However, having my daughter with me turned out to be my golden ticket because when the judge saw her, he asked, "Who's the lady with the beautiful little girl?" Here's what went down from there:
Me: (give him my name)
Court worker: She's not on the docket
Me: The court date is set for January 8th, we're moving to Texas in two weeks, I called and they said to come today.
Judge: Who was the trooper?
Me: My neighbor.
Courtroom: explodes in laughter
Judge: Well, it's no wonder you are moving, I don't blame you.
Me: No kidding. Here's the sign that caused the problem, clearly, it's off.
Judge: That is what you are here for? (rolls his eyes) We are dismissing this, and we'll have to have a talk with your neighbor.
Me: Thanks. I guess I should have invited him over for a BBQ.
Judge: I hope your move goes well, and that you have better neighbors.
Me: Thank you, have a good day.
From the judge's reaction, he thought the reason I was there was rather ridiculous. Although, hearing the entire courtroom break out into a symphony of laughter was rather fun. And my girl? She just charmed everyone, which helped get mommy to the front of the line.
Me: (give him my name)
Court worker: She's not on the docket
Me: The court date is set for January 8th, we're moving to Texas in two weeks, I called and they said to come today.
Judge: Who was the trooper?
Me: My neighbor.
Courtroom: explodes in laughter
Judge: Well, it's no wonder you are moving, I don't blame you.
Me: No kidding. Here's the sign that caused the problem, clearly, it's off.
Judge: That is what you are here for? (rolls his eyes) We are dismissing this, and we'll have to have a talk with your neighbor.
Me: Thanks. I guess I should have invited him over for a BBQ.
Judge: I hope your move goes well, and that you have better neighbors.
Me: Thank you, have a good day.
From the judge's reaction, he thought the reason I was there was rather ridiculous. Although, hearing the entire courtroom break out into a symphony of laughter was rather fun. And my girl? She just charmed everyone, which helped get mommy to the front of the line.
Nov 12, 2009
Thursday's Thoughts
- I will live in Tennessee for eleven more days, eleven, that's all. Wow.
- Yesterday I met the buyers of our house. Again, wow. It was an interesting day, very interesting indeed. I would say that's a post for another day, but there is no way I could adequately describe the course of the day, in fact, I couldn't come close.
- My dad met the sellers of the house we're buying, and stated I would like her. In fact, my youngest niece got to hang out with the lady. Funny.
- Next Thursday will be my next ATI class, sad.
- The girl and I get to go to the courthouse tomorrow to take care of this. My joy does NOT come in the morning friends.
- My daughter, who was once an amazing sleeper is now wearing everyone out. I am going to need her to start sleep later in the mornings again and take at least a two hour nap once again. Seriously kid, mommy is worn out!
- Tonight I will be attending a women's event at church. I can't wait. I'm ready for a night of rest and worship.
Nov 11, 2009
The cause of my grief
Want to know what caused all the grief yesterday? Here you go:
That's right friends, this is the sign that was around my license plate which led to the citation and the reason I have to stroll down to the courthouse Friday morning, with my kid, to prove it's no longer on the car. Sweet. When I called the clerk, her response was, "What a jerk! He shouldn't have bothered." You got that right sister. But alas, as it stands, the kid and I have to head down to see a judge to get this dismissed.
As I was retelling this story to a friend of mine, she said, "you know, if Nathan weren't black, you probably wouldn't have gotten anything." Hmmm. I hadn't thought of that, did not want to think that. Nathan made that comment, even his father said this morning, "a white, married woman driving down the road at 4:30 in the morning, with a black kid in her car, think about it. Not everyone likes that."
The fact that could be even in the realm of possibilities leaves me unsettled. We live in a land that claims freedoms but holds onto its prejudices and discriminations. We claim liberty for all but choose who to distribute it to.
Maybe I'm wrong, maybe that was not his motivation. I do not know, but I do hate that others think the color of someone's skin would prompt his actions.
Then again, maybe I will just leave the sign on his doorstep when we move.
That's right friends, this is the sign that was around my license plate which led to the citation and the reason I have to stroll down to the courthouse Friday morning, with my kid, to prove it's no longer on the car. Sweet. When I called the clerk, her response was, "What a jerk! He shouldn't have bothered." You got that right sister. But alas, as it stands, the kid and I have to head down to see a judge to get this dismissed.
As I was retelling this story to a friend of mine, she said, "you know, if Nathan weren't black, you probably wouldn't have gotten anything." Hmmm. I hadn't thought of that, did not want to think that. Nathan made that comment, even his father said this morning, "a white, married woman driving down the road at 4:30 in the morning, with a black kid in her car, think about it. Not everyone likes that."
The fact that could be even in the realm of possibilities leaves me unsettled. We live in a land that claims freedoms but holds onto its prejudices and discriminations. We claim liberty for all but choose who to distribute it to.
Maybe I'm wrong, maybe that was not his motivation. I do not know, but I do hate that others think the color of someone's skin would prompt his actions.
Then again, maybe I will just leave the sign on his doorstep when we move.
Eph4:29 - WFW
Eph4:29 - WFW
Originally uploaded by chelled.
Ephesians 4:29:Originally uploaded by chelled.
Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear
I love WFW for many reasons, but mainly because it is a day filled with posts that encourage, challenge, inspire, and bring joy to my day. The WFW posts are words that definitely bring grace and beauty into my life. So, thank you to each of you who participate, who share, and who help to spur one another on!
Be blessed today, and for more, wonderful Word Filled Wednesday posts visit Penny.
Nov 10, 2009
Rewind please!
Out to D1 we went, at the oh so wonderful hour of 4:30 A.M! Down the road I drove, chatting with Nathan, when all of a sudden, lights started flashing. Oh great. Off to the side I pulled as the glaring lights of the car behind me caused me to have a Damascus Road moment. Over he walks, asking for my credentials because with no one else on the road, it's pertinent to not allow someone to go 15 miles over the speed limit. (Fine, I was speeding, we'll admit that here and now. Better?) The trooper? My neighbor. Even more exciting. In "neighborly love" he says he's giving me a warning for my speeding, but a citation for a license plate sign that covers one of the registration tags. Huh? What? If it is being sold, and is available for me to put on my car, how would I know it's not ok? Hmmmmm????
It gets better though. The sign? It says, "Fellowship of Christian Athletes." One more reason I don't believe in putting Christian signage on the car (I will explain later).
But wait, there's more. The court date? It is set for January 8, 2010. I looked at him and said, "well, we are moving in two weeks, to Texas." He looked troubled and said, "Just call the number and explain and see what you need to do." Oh gee, thanks for that.
In an even better twist of irony, the car we were in? It would be the one we are selling right before we move. Nice huh? I arrived home from D1, told my husband about the humor of my morning, which made himmore cranky, our child has a stuffy nose and isn't sleeping well, and all of this fun happened prior to 7:00 A.M. Please, someone, hit that rewind button for me. Would ya?
Really, I did not want one more thing added to my to do list. So, thanks for that neighbor, thanks.
It gets better though. The sign? It says, "Fellowship of Christian Athletes." One more reason I don't believe in putting Christian signage on the car (I will explain later).
But wait, there's more. The court date? It is set for January 8, 2010. I looked at him and said, "well, we are moving in two weeks, to Texas." He looked troubled and said, "Just call the number and explain and see what you need to do." Oh gee, thanks for that.
In an even better twist of irony, the car we were in? It would be the one we are selling right before we move. Nice huh? I arrived home from D1, told my husband about the humor of my morning, which made him
Really, I did not want one more thing added to my to do list. So, thanks for that neighbor, thanks.
Nov 9, 2009
Think on it
My (rather amazing) sister had the following quote on a social networking site and I thought I would share it with you. Enjoy.
"... We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and famous?' Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that people won't feel insecure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of ...God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in all of us. And when we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. "
-Nelson Mandela
"... We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and famous?' Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that people won't feel insecure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of ...God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in all of us. And when we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. "
-Nelson Mandela
Nov 7, 2009
Honest x 10
I’ve been tagged by Chris at the Warrior Poets, with the charge to list 10 honest things about myself. Everything I’ve ever written here is honest, so the directions are slightly redundant, though through no fault of his as he was tagged by someone else, and is just passing on the joy.
Let the fun begin....
Let the fun begin....
- Yes, that picture really is of me. It makes me laugh that I would post such a picture because I'm very modest, and have had serious body issues throughout my life.
- I love crazy, challenging workouts (proof above). I complain and moan and groan during them, but love the sense of accomplishment I have following the workout.
- I ran a full marathon in 2005. I hate running. I will not do a full marathon again.
- I knew I would marry Andy the first time I spoke to him (via the phone). My friend Reco had told me about him and after our first phone conversation I thought, "Hm, Reco is right, I am going to marry Andy."
- What makes number 4 funny, very funny, is the fact I rarely, if ever dated. I never liked the idea much, and no one liked me much, so there you go.
- My daughter is the most amazing little girl in the world, truly. I had no idea one person could so drastically change my outlook on life, myself, everything. She's incredible, and growing too fast.
- We are going to be living within minutes of my family by the end of the month. I am thrilled, and currently avoiding thinking about the friends I'll be saying good-bye to.
- We go to a multi-cultural church, and I love it.
- I married a genius (but don't tell him, he'll get a big head). Seriously, he's the single most intelligent human being I know. I have the common sense in the relationship however.
- I love photography, and wish I was a whole lot better at it.
Crazy preacher man
The following is our Pastor's current status on Facebook. I have changed nothing, it's a direct copy.
Don't forget: We are collecting 1,000 pairs of shoes this Sunday for orphans around the world! If you don't bring some new or gently worn shoes to church, we will jack you (in Jesus's name) for the shoes you wear to church that morning!
Man are we going to miss him!!!!
Don't forget: We are collecting 1,000 pairs of shoes this Sunday for orphans around the world! If you don't bring some new or gently worn shoes to church, we will jack you (in Jesus's name) for the shoes you wear to church that morning!
Man are we going to miss him!!!!
Nov 6, 2009
One way ticket
It's done, I have reserved a one way ticket for myself and my daughter. One way, as in, not to return to the original location. One way, as in, staying in the place where we land. As I made the reservation (thanks mom for letting me use yet one more of your frequent flyer passes!), and the realization swept over me that there would be no return flight, my hand started shaking a bit. I walked into the living room, looked at Andy and said, "We're moving. When the girl and I fly out, we aren't coming back. Oh my." Being ever so compassionate, he retorted, "You probably won't ever come back. I mean, why would you?" Ok, that's a little bit dramatic, and not quite the response I was wanting, but we will give him a pass on that ridiculous statement (I did tell him I would come back, without him or the girl so I could have some fun! HA!).
As of today, I have 17 days remaining here. Oh.my.wow. Some days the emotions tied to leaving this place that has been home for 6 years wash over me, some days I am so thrilled to finally be living near family I am just elated. Some days, the two emotions clash and my head starts spinning ever so slightly. As I have stated before, the ebb and flow of life sometimes has heartache and joy walking hand in hand. Each day, memories wander in my mind of moments shared with friends, of getting married, of struggling to figure out my role as a wife, as a mom, moments spent in worship, rejoicing for what God has done and is continuing to do, moments of despair spent crying out to God with fellow believers.
Every beautiful moment sweeps through leaving imprints on my heart and mind. A majority of those moments involve our church, the family God saw fit to have us be a part of. In the next few weeks, I will write expound on just how precious that place, those people have been, will forever be, to us. Right now, I find myself swept up in the beauty that is around me, in the colors, the smells, the sounds. It is good, and I'm thankful I've been given the eyes to see, to notice, and to appreciate every bit of it.
Nov 5, 2009
Thursday's Thoughts
- It's only the fifth day of the month, and I'm wiped out. That can't be good.
- We're having a garage sale on Saturday...whooppee, and oh what fun (or something like that).
- I LOVE my ATI class on Thursday mornings, man I'm going to miss it.
- Last night I made the flight reservation for the girl and I to Texas, and my hand started shaking a bit when I realized it's a one way trip. YIKES!
- My child woke up at 5:30am today, and only napped for an hour and a half this afternoon. My friends, this is not a trend I want to see continue.
- This morning I got a call from my dear ole Dad. He told me he spoke to the manager of the gym he works out at. The guy remembered me from when I was there, and said he is needing a trainer during morning hours. Gotta love it, 34 years old, and my dad is still helping me find a job! HA!
- Hmmmm, there doesn't seem to be much activity going on in my head right now. Oh well.
Nov 4, 2009
WFW-Psalm 16:5-6
WFW-Psalm 16:5-6
Originally uploaded by chelled.
Psalm 16:5-6Originally uploaded by chelled.
Lord, you have assigned me my portion and my cup, you have made my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places, surely I have a delightful inheritance.
When our house was still for sell, and my frustrations were running high, a friend sent me this verse. As soon as I read these words, I was comforted and reminded that God goes before and behind me, He hems me in on either side. I was reminded that the path I cannot see down, He already knows, and that which is unseen by me is seen by Him.
In the moment I read these verses, I was reminded that God cannot break his word nor his promises, neither can his word be brought back void. And as I read those lines, peace returned, and settled in my Spirit.
Since that day, our house has sold and an offer has been accepted on the house we will move into. Our expected closing date here in November 25th, which doesn't leave much time for the buyers' loan to be processed. But, here again, I am going to hold to His promises and to His word, to this place He has brought us to. I am trusting that every detail will work out beautifully, wonderfully, and to His glory. I am believing that He will show himself off in the smallest of details as this process moves forward. And I am praying that our minds are focused on Him all the while.
Be blessed today, and for more, wonderful Word Filled Wednesday posts visit PennyRaine.com.
Lost Mission
One of my favorite paragraphs in Lost Mission begins on page 187:
About the book:
Criollo or king, it did not matter; all human life was a journey toward a hole in the ground. Since all men came to the same end, how unwise it was to define men by their beginnings. What lunacy to celebrate one kind of man as "better," or more "beautiful," while discounting others. It was a self-destructive impulse to the core, for Nature drew herself most beautifullly in contrasts - day and night, land and sea, spring and autumn, birth and death - and without such counterpoints the world would be a dreary one indeed. What insanity to hold a single standard as the most desirable, when that very standard would be meaningless without alternatives.
What haunting legacy awaits deep beneath the barrios and wealthy enclaves of Southern California?
A billionaire driven mad by grief.
A pastor in love with the wrong woman.
An illegal immigrant desperate to feed his family.
Only Lupe de la Garza can save them from the ancient evil lurking in a lost mission's ruins, but it will take an act of faith beyond all human power.An idyllic Spanish mission collapses in the eighteenth century atop the supernatural evidence of a shocking crime. Twelve generations later the ground is opened up, the forgotten ruins are disturbed, and rich and poor alike confront the onslaught of resurging hell on earth. Caught up in the catastrophe are...
· A humble shopkeeper compelled to leave her tiny village deep in Mexico to preach in America
· A minister wracked with guilt for loving the wrong woman
· An unimaginably wealthy man, blinded to the consequences of his grand plans
· A devoted father and husband driven to a horrible discovery that changes everything
Will the evil that destroyed the Misión de Santa Dolores rise to overwhelm them? Or will they beat back the terrible desires that led to the mission's good Franciscan founder's standing in the midst of flames ignited by his enemies and friends alike more than two centuries ago?
From the high Sierra Madre mountains to the harsh Sonoran desert, from the privileged world of millionaire moguls to the impoverished immigrants who serve them, Athol Dickson once again weaves a gripping story of suspense that spans centuries and cultures to explore the abiding possibility of miracles.
About the author:
Athol Dickson is an award-winning author of several novels. His Christy Award-winning novel River Rising was name one of the "Top Ten Christian Novel of 2006" by Booklist magazine. He lives in California with his wife. Find out more about Athol and his books by visiting his website.
BUY THE BOOK! https://www.amazon.com/dp/1416583475?tag=sprightly-20
Did you love the book? Leave your review on Amazon.com, too!
Contest!
Tweet this and be entered to win signed copies of Athol’s award winning books:
Tweet 4 words that describe Athol Dickson’s #LostMission along with this link: http://tr.im/BPD1
Or
Athol Dickson’s redemptive tale #LostMission is a MUST read! Gripping story about mistakes and miracles! http://tr.im/BPD1
(To be clear – to be entered into the contest your tweet must have these 2 elements 1. Athol Dickson’s #Lost Mission 2. this link: http://tr.im/BPD1).
Blog Tour: Please include this link in your blog tour post so your readers can see what others are saying! http://www.litfusegroup.com/latest/current-blog-tours/94-athol-dicksons-lost-mission
Nov 3, 2009
Questions on my mind
- The time changed, and I'm more tired...why?
- Is there a nice way to tell my husband to take our kid and get out for a day so I can pack things up? It would make life much, much easier.
- Why do people commonly use "loose" when they mean "lose"? It makes me crazy, well, I'm sure that's not the actual root of my madness, but it does bother me. Here's the breakdown on how to use the words properly: Loose: "The rope was too loose and fell." Lose: "I think your team is going to lose today." Got it? Good.
- Why do so many Halloween costumes have to be so trampy looking? Good grief, lingerie should be left for the privacy of one's own home, not used as a costume.
Nov 2, 2009
Where to begin
I should be packing, something, anything. Instead, here I sit, at the computer thinking of the many things I can do instead of packing. It makes perfect sense, right? For one, I need to go pick up a picture I had sent to Target, the wrong Target, yesterday. Oops. I got the clocks changed just fine, it seems I simply had trouble with that select button on Shutterfly. Darn. I also have to finish a book that I have to have a review written up on by Wednesday. It looks like I will finish it after all, whew. But packing? It's not ranking high on the list? It should, it really should. In fact, if I could have someone take my husband and child for a day or two, I would knock all it out, just like that...BANG! As it is, I will need these next few weeks, unless I sit here wasting time rather than packing, then I may need more.
And, maybe tomorrow there will be a more interesting post on this blog. Oh well, I have so much to do! *smile*
And, maybe tomorrow there will be a more interesting post on this blog. Oh well, I have so much to do! *smile*
Nov 1, 2009
Let's get it started
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