Are you ready?

Kick-off for this is Monday, May 9th!

Where you live doesn't matter, you can participate wherever you live.

Yes, you really will have a chance to win $100.

More details will be made available at the beginning of next week.

This is your opportunity to meet your own health goals, to look great and feel great!

Email me or leave a comment if interested.

Here we go

As we speak, I am sitting in the apartment of one of my closest friend's in the grand DFW.  I arrived yesterday in order to assist her with an AdvoCare booth at an event call Pillow Talk.  The name makes me snicker a bit, but Pillow Talk is actually a women's ministry begun by one lovely lady who during her time with God, would sit amongst all her pillows.  And now, we have this wonderful event that serves as a night out for women, and only women, and promotes women.  Grand, isn't it?  For those of you in the area, come on by tonight from 7-9 and join us for this fun night.  It takes place at the Arlington Art Museum, and we would love to see you.

Tomorrow morning we are hosting a mixer here at her apartment.  Woo hoo!  Immediately after, I will head out and return home to my sweet family.  This will be one crazy weekend (and did I mention the water at her apartments is turned off until 12:30 today, and we went for an hour long walk this morning?), but we are praying it is also very fruitful.

And no, I did not watch the royal wedding, and no, I do not really care a whole lot.  People get married everyday, and in light of everything else going on in the world, I just do not see this as being news worthy all.day.long (which it probably will be).  Such is life in the land where fairytales are still sought after.  Be blessed friends, and pray for us as we take on our endeavor tonight!

How very true

Many of you have probably heard, by now, of all the storms that raged through the south. There is a lot of damage, and I know this song, with the use of raindrops in it may cause people to shudder. However, I heard this song this morning and just wanted to share it. Pray for those impacted by the storms, pray for those waiting to hear from friends and family. And, smile at a stranger today.

Weight Loss Wednesday

<br /> <a href="http://www.confessionsofasnowflake.com"><img src="http://www.confessionsofasnowflake.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/wlw2.png" ></a><br />




I am so excited to be hosting Weight Loss Wednesday for my little Snowlfake friend, Alicia this week!  So, welcome my getting healthy friends.  Let's get rolling and encourage one another in our journeys towards better health and more balanced lives.

While most people are battling the urge to grab a chocolate bunny, I am thankful we have none in the house.  Last week, I ate no sugar and actually felt really good.  Saturday, while we enjoyed Easter lunch with family, I did partake in one piece of cake.  Let me be honest, it tasted really good, but it left me thinking, "eh, that wasn't as good as I thought it might be."  Then, I found some peanut butter filled chocolate eggs, and that dear friends is the evil temptress in my world.  I wished I had never had one at all because it does not stop at one.

Since my daughter's Easter basket did not contain any candy, I am no longer tempted, and happily so.  It is best for me to just stay away because I am just a sugar addict.  I must be honest, I am.  Some can have one or two bites of cake or something and move along.  Me?  Nope.  It's best for me to not bother with any of it at all.

Saturday morning I decided to go out for a jog, and knew I wanted to do more than my usual 3 miles.  I set out on my six mile course, but chose to skip some turns and did about 5.5 instead.  It felt good to be otuside and jogging because I wanted to, not because I was training for an event.  If the spring winds would die down, I would be outside jogging some more.  As it stands, I am choosing to not be blown and covered in dirt.

I love the workoutsI do and am going back to the no sugar diet.  I just feel better that way; I sleep better, and know my body is better off that way.  What the scale says makes no difference to me at all because I know when I make the right choices (exercise, track calories, keep away from sugar), clothes fit better and I have more energy.  Plus, the healthier I am, the better I can serve others.  Amen?  Amen!

Be encouraged friends.  Wherever you are, whatever you are doing and whether you are struggling or finding victory, I want you to know: YOU ARE WORTH IT!  You are worth the healthy choices, the time out of yoru day to exercise, the moments of rest, and the time filled with laughter.  You are fearfully and wonderfully made, do not give up on yourself!

 ¹¹ In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. ¹² Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. ¹³ Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness. (Romans 6:11-13, New International Version, ©2011)

So how are you doing with your weight loss goals?  Why don't you join me in this weight loss journey?

Write a blog post it, referencing this post. Then link up with Mr. Linky below. Please know, though, that I reserve the right to delete any link that does not conform to the spirit of Weight Loss Wednesday. You can also join us on Twitter using the hashtag #wlwed.

Where is the bride?

⁷ Let us rejoice and be glad

   and give him glory!

For the wedding of the Lamb has come,

   and his bride has made herself ready. (Revelation 19:7, New International Version, ©2011)

The brass quartet, all various forms of the beautiful saxophone began to play Pachelbel's Canon in D.  I turned to Andy and said, "This is the song usually played at weddings, I want to turn around to watch the bride enter.  Where is the bride?"  He chuckled, and I was caught by my own statement.

Where is the bride?


Easter Sunday, the day of celebrating the risen Lord, and I found myself asking, "Where is the bride?"

In every pew, in every chair, the bride sat.  Some know of their position, some are well on their way to revelation, some have yet to understand.  The bride awaits.  Primping and ensuring Sunday's best, the bride awaits.

A risen King, a holy groom but, where is the bride?

Stumbling, serving, speaking, hearing, praying, sinning, the bride awaits.  Hands outstretched, hands folded in, hands serving, hands retreating, the bride awaits.  Imperfect, unholy, unredeemed, unjust, in need of her groom, the bride awaits.

I asked, out loud, in jest, "Where is the bride?"

God gently whispered, "My bride is here, out there, and everywhere.  My bride is not yet ready for me to come.  She is turning her head to see who is coming, distracted by events all around.  Yet if only she would look straight down the aisle, she would find me.

At the cross, at the altar, at the end of her tears, at the end of her sorrows, her groom awaits.  I want to see her run into my arms, into my embrace, not just now but for an eternity.  I am her groom and I have loved her with an everlasting love, an unconditional love, and a sacrificial love.

I would give anything, and have given everything for her, my beloved, and she has forsaken me, mocked me, and murdered me.  But I have risen, restored, and forgiven.  I wait for her to run to me.  I too am asking, Where is the bride?"

 ⁶ And the Lord said, “Listen to what the unjust judge says. ⁷ And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? ⁸ I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?” (Luke 18:6-8, New International Version, ©2011)

We are not simply his children, heirs to the eternal crown. No, we are called, we are beckoned as the bride of Christ.  Although we have defiled and sullied what God meant for holiness, he can, no, he will restore us to reflect Heaven's glory as he makes our scarlet sins white as snow (Isaiah 1:18).  He will come back to restore us, strong and steadfast (1 Peter 5:10), taking our hands into his and offering eternity as his bride.

 ¹ Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. ² I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. ³ And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ⁴ ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
 ⁵ He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”
 ⁶ He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life. ⁷ Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children. ⁸ But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.” (Revelation 21:1-8, New International Version, ©2011)

Songs that move me

When my time on this earth is done, feel free to put together a montage of photos paired to this song:


And then, somewhere in the service, play this as my thank you to my family and friends who love me so very well and so much more than I deserve. But please, couple it with a video of them, especially my daughter.:


But don't do either until this is played, and everyone is reminded that I am at the throne of grace singing it (and maybe at that moment my voice will be made glorious...finally!):


And this song because it has always been my favorite:


And this one because I have never been able to get to the end without my eyes overflowing with tears:

Happy Easter

Happy Easter. I bow in humble thanks because my redeemer LIVES!  The grave could not contain him, hell could not destroy him, and man cannot comprehend him.  Yet for all of his creation, for all of us, he, my Jesus, precious Jesus, rose, and he lives, and will come again.

Happy day before Easter

I just wanted to share two clips with you on this day before we celebrate Easter, the day that flung wide Heaven's gates for sinners like me. Praise the Lord. Enjoy.

First, an interview with Jim Caviezel who portrayed Jesus in Passion of the Christ.


Secondly, a beautiful rendition of "How Great Thou Art" performed by Vince Gill and Carrie Underwood. Astounding.

Good Friday? Oh yes, very good.

On a Friday past, and on a Friday now, and we call it Good.  The innocent lamb, who the crowd hurled insults at, who the soldiers stripped and beat, who was spat on, took the cross upon his back and walked it up the hillside.  A man named Simon may have carried it for a while, but this cross was meant for only one, the King of the Jews. In between two thieves, two convicted thieves, the One who healed, restored and loved was nailed there, raised high for all to see.

He cried out, forgave again, and gently whispered, it is finished.  As he exhaled his last breath, the temple curtain tore and the earth shook with fervor.

The curtain and the earth knew that with the completion of one, the other would begin.  The old had past the new had come.  Sacrifice no more, for the Son of God, the Savior of Man has shed blood for all.

He shed his blood for you.

He shed his blood for me.

He shed his blood for the ones who serve him and trust his name.

He shed his blood for the ones who mock him and curse his name

He shed his blood for the hope of eternity.

On a Friday past, many years ago, God-man came and spilled his blood.  And we call it, Good.  For on that blood stained cross lies my hope, my only hope.  Your hope, your only hope is there too.  Because the earth knew then what it still knows today, the one who was slain rose in three days.

Read for yourselves about the crucifixion, of how madly in love God is with you.

Listen to the beauty displayed on the Old Rugged Cross:


Enjoy this wonderful story of how one professor explained the sacrifice made.

Finally, be reminded that we were sent to finish as you watch this video.

Good Friday?  Yes, very good.

Thursday's thoughts

• Have you all noticed how so many people use FB and Twitter statuses to complain about situations, people, etc?  What has happened to resloving problems without all the gossip?  I would so enjoy a day of reading positive words, things that are encouraging, etc.  Or, maybe people need to start journaling more where they can talk freely and candidly without having to edit their words and being so offensive.  That's it, go buy a journal people!
• I read an article about two teen girls who made a suicide pact and followed through with it.  How heartbreaking.  They were bullied and felt like outcasts by their peers.  I commented to a friend that as I read the article I thought of how critical adults are in their speech, especially of one another (and in ways mentioned above) and that the bullies may be simply imitating what is modeled for them.  Get it together parents, our kids are watching.
• This week, I have not been eating sweets, outside of God's sweets: fruit, and am loving it.  My sweet girl was offering to share some Skittles with me, which I almost took.  Then, I remembered this week, for sure, in order to be obedient, I am not to eat sweets.  Whew!  It was a close one, and even though she was being so precious in offering to share, I declined.  
• Many people do not have to work tomorrow, on Good Friday.  I wonder how many really know, or even ponder, the importance of the day.  May our hearts, minds, and attitudes reflect eternity more than the temporal lives we currently live.
• There are only two more weeks left in my Thursday morning Bible study.  ACH!  I am going to miss that group, and what a great study (Genesis) we have been doing!  
• Praying any eyes that happen upon this here blog today are blessed beyond measure, encouraged with words spoken in love, and are surrounded with JOY.

WFW: Psalm 85:10-12

 ¹⁰ Love and faithfulness meet together;

   righteousness and peace kiss each other.

¹¹ Faithfulness springs forth from the earth,

   and righteousness looks down from heaven.

¹² The LORD will indeed give what is good,

   and our land will yield its harvest. (Psalm 85:10-12, New International Version, ©2011)

It was a simple little project they did at preschool: plant a seed.  I thought little of it as we brought her cup with her seedling tucked inside home that day.  Four days later, as I was passing by, I stopped in my tracks and took notice: life.  That little seedling, knowing it was meant for more, was beginning to grow.

A smile swept across my face as I grabbed the cup to show my family, "Look!  It is growing!  Do you see?  From that little seed a flower is starting to grow!"  With our heards pressed together, we peered into that little cup that was sprouting evidence of life.  I added a bit of water, promised we will place the single flower with the others out front when it is ready.

Her sweet girls bounced as she clapped and twirled, telling her daddy that, "my flower is growing!  Did you see it?"  How perfect, how poingnant, that a seed sprouts itself the week of Easter.  This, the week that changed eternity, is the week God has chosen to use a simple preschool project to remind me of one beautiful, soul saving fact:

⁴⁶ He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, (Luke 24:46, New International Version, ©2011)

May life surround you, may you see his hand, his mercy, his life in every day this week.  Let us be reminded we serve a living God and thank him for the place he has set for us inside Heaven's gates.

To enjoy more Word Filled Wednesday posts click here..

WLW: Obedience

In last week's post for WLW, I mentioned I needed to begin writing out everything I ate again.  I stated I also needed to figure out why I was not doing something I knew was in my best interest and served as a good tool for me to stay healthy, and reach new goals.  And then, a comment was left.

Oh me oh my.  Dear Lisa, from this blog, wrote, "I have been really bad about keeping track of my food. I don't know why because it *always* helps when I do it! Actually, I do know why - it's called rebellion! :)"  Nail hit sufficiently and squarely on the head.  Thank you for speaking, and for naming what I knew in my head but had not confessed.  Rebellion.  Plain and simple, young child-like, rebellion.

The rebellion ended Sunday morning as I started writing down every food I ate, and even posted in a cabinet the calories in the AdvoCare products I use daily as well as foods I eat consistently.  I even went to this site in order to easily track how many calories I should burn per day as well as how many I should consume.  You should head over there, it's very simply and does all the math for you, hooray!  The moment I started taking note of how I was treating my body, how I was feeding it, I felt better, and more importantly, obedient.

Being the week of Easter, I also felt compelled to not consume any sugar aside from what occurs naturally in foods like fruit.  A small thing, but again, obedience.

On the workout side of things, those have been great.  I did a killer leg workout last Wednesday, and will be doing one again this week (gotta love the plyos!).  I am in the last week of the final mesocycle of the STS Series, but have decided I will be starting again, from square one, in two weeks (must take the required active rest week off).  I feel stronger and notice more definition, and know doing this series again will help me even more.  And with that, I leave you with this:

 ³² So be careful to do what the LORD your God has commanded you; do not turn aside to the right or to the left. ³³ Walk in obedience to all that the LORD your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess. (Deuteronomy 5:32-33, New International Version, ©2011)

Around the table

³¹ Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. (Ephesians 4:31, New International Version, ©2011)

Life on this earth, in these sin addicted, finite bodies it not always easy.  Community is messy and fellowship is not always filled with laughter.  But this is, after all, the place God has us, in this moment, in this space, in this time.

The words out of my husband's mouth last night, "They want nothing to do with you right now, quit trying to begin communication with them."  Ouch.  Yet, he's right.  I am trying, and praying, and asking for blessings for all.

This morning, as I sweat away stress that found me in unsettled sleep throughout the night, this verse came to mind:

 ¹⁰ In God, whose word I praise,
   in the LORD, whose word I praise—
¹¹ in God I trust and am not afraid.
   What can man do to me?
 ¹² I am under vows to you, my God;
   I will present my thank offerings to you. (Psalm 56:10-12, New International Version, ©2011)

May it be so, may I believe the words God has said of me, trust in his leading and his discipline, and in his sovereignty.  May I fall full into the arms of grace as I learn to walk along with others.  How my heart does long for the day that awaits, when we will experience fellowship in full, free from anger, bitterness and strife.  That place where holiness preceeds all, envelops all, is all.  To sit at the table that was prepared for us, together, in perfect fellowship, as it was always created to be.

 ¹ “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. ² My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? ³ And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. (John 14:1-3, New International Version, ©2011)

That's my King

The following was written and spoken by minister and civil rights activist,  Dr. SM Lockridge.  Until yesterday, I had not heard this man nor this poem as it's not being streamed into the rock I apparently live under.  The words are beautiful, and true, and captivating.  Listen, and Dr. Lockridge tells you about My King.

The triumphal entry that changed eternity

"Many people spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had cut in the fields.  Those who went ahead and those who followed shouted, 

Hosanna!  Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!  Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!  Hosanna in the highest!

Jesus entered Jerusalem and went to the temple."  (Mark 11:8-11, NIV)

Jesus has returned to Jerusalmen, a seemingly welcome home from his community.  They welcome him in, proclaim his glory, delight in his return (Mark 11: 1-11).

But the coming week will bring about many changes.

Jesus will see the holy temple turned into a den of thieves, and will restore its holiness (Mark 11:12-19).

The authority given by God Almighty to Jesus will be questioned (Mark 11:27-33).

Jesus will teach of tenants, taxes and offerings, and warn them of wolves in sheep's clothing.  He will tell them those around him that the greatest command is to love one another, and even more so, love the Lord with heart, soul, and mind (Mark 12).

Knowing that an end is near, Jesus will assure them of another coming, another end, another eternal beginning.  The hour and day unknown, he tells them to keep watch, to live fully, and holy (Mark 13).

A humble woman will annoint the head of Jesus, sparing no expense, and risking humiliation by those around as Jesus prepares to break bread with his chosen twelve (Mark 14: 1-26).

Jesus looks into the eyes of the one who will deny him, lets him know it is to come.  Jesus will steal away with three of his followers, seeking prayer, and for the cup to be removed from his hands.  He begins to journey alone as he is arrested and brought before the jury ready to convict him.  As the rooster cries out for a seond time, the one who was told he would deny the name of Jesus' breaks, and weeps for the betrayal of his words (Mark 14: 27-72).

Before the rulers, the soldiers, the crowds, Jesus will be condemned for a law he never broke and will be delivered punishment that is not his.  Beaten, mocked, nailed, he will cry out, "Forgive them."  And then, "It is finished."  The temple curtain will tear and Jesus will breathe no more, and a man named Joseph along with a few faithful women, will lay the holy body to rest (Mark 15).

But as hope seems lost, as darkness settles in, the stone is removed, the body of the Lord no longer lies within the death filled tomb.  He is alive, he is risen.  And he is preparing a place for those who believe in his name at eternity's table (Mark 16).

Justice

 ¹ The prophecy that Habakkuk the prophet received.  ² How long, LORD, must I call for help,
   but you do not listen?
Or cry out to you, “Violence!”
   but you do not save?
³ Why do you make me look at injustice?
   Why do you tolerate wrongdoing?
Destruction and violence are before me;
   there is strife, and conflict abounds.
⁴ Therefore the law is paralyzed,
   and justice never prevails.
The wicked hem in the righteous,
   so that justice is perverted. (Habakkuk 1:1-4, New International Version, ©2011)

I awoke with a heavy heart. No, that is not accurate. I went to sleep with a heart filled with heaviness.  A dear friend sent me a message that drew the air from my chest, and had me crying out, "No!"  My sweet friend, who's been the subject of another's choices time and time again, who had had so much stripped from her, who has been left broken and bleeding, is facing yet another life altering moment.  This time, the fractures go much deeper, the wounds much more violent because now sin has wrapped its slimy hateful fingers around her daughter.  And my friend is crying out, "No!  No more!  Lord, save us!"  Surrounded by darkness, she is seeking to find light, a glimmer, just a speck of hope, somewhere, anywhere.  I weep for her.

My heart is burdened for this sudden detour in her journey, the sudden turn that was not her choosing.  I cried out to God, "Lord, get rid of the evil hand causing such harm!  Right from this earth, rid these hands."  Then I heard his gentle whisper, "Would you really have me do that?"  But the hands are filled with lies and deceipt, taking what does not belong to them.  "Those hands are in need of truth."  Justice!  They need justice to swiftly fall upon them, chopping them from their source.  "But what of mercy?"  Mercy?  Where is the mercy for the ones caught in the vice-like grip of these hands?  "What about forgiveness?"  Yes, allow there to be forgiveness, in the hearts of those left split wide open, long after the hands are gone.  "What of my hands?"  They were pierced by those filled with rage, and sin, and hate.  Your hands were nailed to a cross that did not rightly belong to you.  "Yet, I chose to bear that cross."  Yes, you bore it for the sake of humanity.  "I bore the cross for forgiveness, and mercy, and grace.  I endured for the murderer, the liar, the thief, the one filled with hate, the one blind to truth.  I died for all."  Yes, you died for all.  "And I rose for hope."  Yes, hope that the blind would see, the lame would walk, the leper cleansed, the deaf would hear, the dead would be raised, and the good news proclaimed (Luke 7:22).

"I ask again, what is it you would have me do?"  Fold the sinner's hands into repenting prayer.  Bring those hands to yourself, admitting their fault, accepting their blame, and forgive.  "Yes, forgive.  Better that sinning hands grope their way to forgiveness than to be lost for an eternity."  Yes.

 ¹ The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,
   because the LORD has anointed me
   to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
   to proclaim freedom for the captives
   and release from darkness for the prisoners,
² to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor
   and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,
 ³ and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
   instead of ashes,
the oil of joy
   instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
   instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
   a planting of the LORD
   for the display of his splendor. (Isaiah 61:1-3, New International Version, ©2011)

Bring justice, bring mercy, bring grace, bring protection Lord.  Bring us into your holy embrace.

And the winner is:

Here's what I did: I entered numbers 1-5 in a randomizer, since 5 of you entered this contest.  Here are the results:

List Randomizer

There were 5 items in your list. Here they are in random order:

1. 3
2. 2
3. 1
4. 4
5. 5

Timestamp: 2011-04-15 12:53:39 UTC

Therefore, SHAE, YOU WON!  Congratulations girlie.  I cannot wait to hear what you think about this book!

Learning to let go - Letters from the Heart

The following is a letter I wrote to my child on the evening of April 7, 2011.  Thought I would share it here.

Sweet Girl,
Today, while you played at Papa's house, Daddy and I went to Brownfield to attend a memorial service.  A former student of mine, Colton Burran, was killed earlier this week.  He was a great young man, and you would have loved to be around him.  In fact, I am quite sure he would have enjoyed playing with you.  I am sorry you were not able to meet him.

Last night as we cuddled before bed, I began drawing you closer to me.  At one point you said, "Momma, not so tight."  A thought struck me in that moment: parenting will have me constantly loosening my grip on you.  As you grow and learn and explore the world, I will have to allow you the freedom to do so.  I will be reminded that you are not truly mine, but God's.  As much as I will want to keep you safely wrapped in my embrace, with your head resting on my shoulder, I know that is not possible.

There will be moments you will feel I am still holding on too tight, moments you will want me to let go just "a little bit more."  And I won't want to, but I will.  I know that God has designed you for a specific purpose, and I pray Daddy and I do well to help you grow in how God has gifted you and guide you on the road He has before you.  But it won't be easy because I will want to keep you wrapped in my arms.

My prayer for you is that you love God passionately, and love others well.  I pray you serve easily, laugh often, and smile always.  Enjoy this earthly life because it will end all too soon, and as you go about your life, keep your eyes focused on Heaven.  This life is to prepare you for our heavenly home.  I pray you will surround yourself with people who will encourage you, challenge you, teach you, who will expect nothing but God's best from you.

I love you sweet girl, no matter what, and past forever.
Mommy

WFW - Rev 19:6-9

 ⁶ Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting:
   “Hallelujah!
   For our Lord God Almighty reigns.
⁷ Let us rejoice and be glad
   and give him glory!
For the wedding of the Lamb has come,
   and his bride has made herself ready.
⁸ Fine linen, bright and clean,
   was given her to wear.”
   (Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of God’s holy people.)
 ⁹ Then the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!” And he added, “These are the true words of God.” (Revelation 19:6-9, New International Version, ©2011)

How often do you notice the sounds of life?  I mean, really notice the sounds happening all around?  A child laughing.  A bird chirps.  A windchime sings in the wind.  A car honks.  A siren swirls by.  A clap.  A cry.  A song.  A shout.  A laugh.  Everyday, they are happening all around.  Are you too busy to notice even one?

At the sound of Jesus' return, will you listen then?  Will you hear the trumpet call or the chorus of angels singing?  Or will you turn deaf ears to our eternal hope?

Easter is quickly approaching, the day we celebrate, the reason for our rejoicing: the day Jesus entered his rightful place at the Father's right hand.  Easter, which celebrates the risen King, the living Lord.  How Heaven must have rejoiced as Jesus crossed its threshold, home at last, home in eternity, home where He prepares a place for us.

But I fear you do not hear him.  Do you hear him calling out your name?  Do you hear him telling you he has gone to prepare a place for you and that he will come back for you (John 14:1-3)?  Yes, he is coming.  Can you hear him?

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Weight Loss Wednesday

Here we are again, another week passed, another week to encourage one another in our journeys to better health.  I will admit, last week was a rough one.  I was working out everyday, and even went for a run Friday to shake off some stress from the happenings the day before.  It worked.  It always does.  Working out and straining physically always improves my mental state.  Must have something to do with giving a place for my anxiety and emotions to go.  Besides, running out in the fresh air is always a better choice than running for food.  Can I get an amen?

The workouts have been tough, and entail high weight and low reps.  But, I swear I can see more muscle tone.  YAY!  I think I am going to start with Mesocycle One in the STS series when I have completed the Cycle I am currently in (3, the final one).  Each of the three mesocycles is so different, and since I have noticed changes from doing it once, I figure another round through certainly can't hurt.  Plus, I will do the workouts at the gym rather than at home since I know what each workout involves, which will allow me more choices for what weights I use.  Yes!  Progress!

For way too many weeks, I have been thinking I need to start writing down everything I eat again.  What in the world is my problem and why haven't I done so?  I know it helps, and keeps me more accountable?  Why am I dragging my feet and not dragging out my food journal?  Ridiculous, I need to get it together.  But really, I am having to figure out why I have not done so. 

Here's my final thought for you today:  KNOW YOUR WHY!  Why are you exercising?  Eating well or eating poorly?  Why do you choose unhealth over health?  Why are you not living in freedom from the bondage of overeating and an unhealthy lifestyle?  Answer that, and you will be well on your way to holistic health.

Blessings to you, my healthy little blogger friends.  And, to join in on WLW, click the image at the top of the post.  See you there!

Psalm 19:8
The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes.

A little list for this Tuesday

• I scoured Amazon last night for some new cookbooks filled with healthy fare.  When did I become so domesticated again?  And, when did I start enjoying such things?  Curious.
• My girl and I went and picked out some flowers and a bush to plant.  Again with the domestication!  She got to help me pick them out, which she thought was rather fun.  The planting will begin after her nap today, say a prayer for us.
• Did you all see what a school in Chicago is doing?  No lunches brought from home?  Really?  You need to go read the article, it's insane.  I dare you to stop me from sending my kid to school with her own lunch, and when I do, you go ahead and tell her she can't eat.  We'll see what happens.
• If you find yourself sitting all day, you are putting yourself in jeopardy.  Check out the facts.
• Finally, and this is a big one, did you know Andy Andrews came out with a new book entitled The Final Summit?  I reviewed the book and am having a contest to give away a copy of the book!  What do you need to do?  Go here.  Well, come on, gooooooo!!!!

The Final Summit by Andy Andrews (and a chance to win a copy!)

My Thoughts:
I admit, I am biased because I have found that there is not a single book Andy has written that I do not enjoy, choose to read repeatedly, or feel strongly impacted by.  Reading his books is much like hearing him speak live, Andy will draw you in, invite you to stay a while, and drink in all that God has for you in this life.  He will challenge you and have you asking yourself, "Am I making a difference?  Am I persisting without exception?"  I was so deeply moved by this book I completed it in almost one sitting.  In true Andy Andrews form, The Final Summit is a stellar book that will inspire its readers to live out two simple words.  Two simple words with a life-altering impact.  The words?  Sorry friends, you must read to find them out, and you will not be disappointed.  As you turn the final page of this book, you will be encouraged, and awakened to your own life and the world around you.  Sit down, breathe it in, and you will find yourself wanting to truly live.


Book Description:
Many years have passed since David Ponder discovered the Seven Decisions during a divine journey through time. Now 74 years old, Ponder has lost the one thing that mattered to him most—his wife, Ellen. Despite his personal and professional success, he now sits alone at the top of his 55-story high-rise contemplating the unthinkable, just as he did 28 years ago.

However, just as things are looking their darkest, Ponder is informed through divine channels that he is needed now more than ever. This is mankind’s last chance. Millennia of avarice, pride, and hate have sent humanity hurtling toward inevitable disaster, and far from its original purpose. There is only one solution that can reset the compass and right the ship—and it is only two words. Ponder, along with a cast of famous historical figures, must work quickly to discover this solution. The fate of the world rests on their shoulders.
In the spirit of its New York Times bestselling predecessor, The Traveler’s Gift, The Final Summit explores the historically proven principles that have guided our greatest leaders for centuries. Andrews combines a riveting narrative with astounding history in order to show us the one thing we must do…when we don’t know what to do.

Visit The Final Summit product page!

Learn more about Andy Andrews



WIN A COPY!
Ok blog readers, I so love this book that I am going to give away a copy.  I so firmly believe in its message and its ability to inspire that I cannot wait to share it with someone.  All you have to do to be entered to win is leave a comment on the importance of HOPE.  Keep it short and sweet, explain away, whatever moves you.  The winner will be chosen by random selection on Thursday, April 16th.  Come on, comment people, you NEED this book!!!!


*I received this book from BookSneeze in return for my honest review.
**I also purchased this book on Amazon in order to give it away to one lucky reader.

Title: The Final Summit
Author: Andy Andrews
Publisher: Thomas Nelson Publishers
ISBN-13: 978-0-7852-3120-2
Release Date: April 12, 2011
Retail Price: $19.99 U.S. (Hardcover)
Page Count: 256 pages

Who am I?

While celebrating Colton's life this past week, I was able to see some faces I have not seen in quite a while.  In fact, some I have not seen since the day I moved to Tennessee, eight years ago.  I found myself delighted to see some friendly faces and to hug some necks in between the wiping of tears.

I spoke to the mother of a former athlete, a woman who is learning, even with grown children, to release them to God's care.  She is watching them make choices that are going to make their life's road more difficult, and she weeps for them, and prays for them.  In the end though, she knows her children belong to God, and have belonged to Him long before they belonged to her.  As we were talking she said, "You don't even look like yourself.  I mean, your face looks like you, but you look so different."  I laughed as I replied, "Eight years ago I was unhealthy, of course I look different."  She commented further that it was my countenance that had changed.  Marriage and parenthood can do that I said, but then my heart seemed to echo, "It is by grace."

A wise counselor once told a friend of mine that she could not give herself because she did not have herself.  That line resonated deep within me, and flipped often in my mind.  Do I have myself?  Do I know who I am?  Do I know whose I am?

Throughout my life's journey, I have come across many who just shine.  They are confident in who they are, where they are, and do not seek any glory of their own.  I am drawn to the way they carry themselves with such ease and comfort.  I am drawn to the confidence I often lacked.  There are a few who seem to be born this way, others who seem to cultivate this trait early on, while others of us take a little longer to grasp hold of it.

I can admit, it has taken me a while.  I am a late bloomer, of sorts.

As I look back on the last eight years, I clearly see the people and the moments used to teach me, guide me, and help me grow.  I am reminded of moments that have led me to this place.  Sometimes, it has required purposeful wandering, sometimes, I simply needed to know that God is the I AM.  There have even been moments my confidence grew because I went where I was called.

I look different because I am different.

Now, I can freely share my journey with others.  I walk more with the confidence of Christ and less with myself and find Psalm 71:5 rings true, "For you have been my hope, Sovereign LORD, my confidence since my youth."  I wake each day knowing I am a co-heir with Christ (Romans 8:17), that this is not about me, and so much more about others and the God I serve.  I am learning to love others better, to serve them, to walk alongside them.  I am finding that "He must become greater; I must become less (John 3:30).”  I am realizing I am not my own, and in that lies freedom and strength.  My prayer then is that I will continue to look less like myself, and more like my Savior.

Laughter is good

The life we celebrated yesterday is in the hilarious video. Enjoy. He would be the one doing percussion, with the small pair of shoes draped around his neck.

Trying to wrap my mind around it all

I am still trying to wrap my mind around the events of this week, especially today.  We drove out to the first place I taught and coached to celebrate the life of one of the greatest individuals I have ever known.  As we drove up, two former volleyball players had just pulled up.  When they saw me, I found them quickly in my arms with tears falling steadily down their faces.  That is how our entry into the church went.  See some sweet faces, wrap my arms around them, and allow them to cry.  The memorial service was, well, perfect.  It was very evident what kind of young man Colton was, and the affect he had on so many.  The boy knew how to enjoy life, and with passion.  He knew this life was not about him, and he not only loved God well, he loved others well too.  He smiled often, left nothing undone, and was walking exactly where God wanted him.  And I will miss him.  Everyone will miss him.  I will miss being swept up into his giant hugs and seeing his smile spread wide across his face.  I find myself smiling simply by thinking about him; I guess he continues to have that effect.

Many of my former volleyball players were there and I had to gather them up to speak with them.  Mainly, I shared with them this verse:

 ¹³ Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. ¹⁴ For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. ¹⁵ According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. ¹⁶ For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. ¹⁷ After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. ¹⁸ Therefore encourage one another with these words. (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, New International Version, ©2011)

As I continued talking to them I reminded them that the year I coached them, we spent more time praying than playing.  We prayed before and after every practice and every game.  Upon arriving home from our last game that season, we spent an hour or more on the bus esteeming one another and praying together.  I reminded them that Colton knew the power of prayer, and it is better that the godly be taken from this earth rather than the one who does not know God and doubts his faith.  I told them Colton knew where his eternity would be spent, and my prayer was that each of them could say the same.  I was honest in saying the whole situation hurt, and no words can make it better or remove the sting, but yet, we have hope when we know God.

That is my prayer tonight, I pray that every individual in attendance (and the place was completely packed) knows God and desires to make him known.  I pray they are confident of an eternity in Heaven, of a place with God Almighty. 

With trembling hands, I approached Colton's mother, and just as if I were standing with Colton, I found myself quickly wrapped up in a hug.  I thanked her for raising such an extraordinary son, for teaching him to love so well.  Her eyes sparkled as she talked about him, even in her grief.  I pray his parents know God is right beside them, in the darkest of hours, in the darkest of nights.  And they do.  I pray they are surrounded by those who will allow them to grieve, and those who will walk humbly beside them down this road.  I pray his family knows that the rest of us profited from their investment in this young man. 

I am humbled to have known him, and humbled to have been a part of the service honoring his life today.  May I live so fully and so passionately for the rest of my days.

The Canary List

Book Description:
Protected by the dark of night, Jaimie Piper runs. But is anywhere safe when Evil is hunting you?
 
She’s just a twelve year-old girl, bumped around between foster homes and relegated to school classes for challenged kids, those lagging in their test scores or with behavioral issues. But her real problem is that she can sense something the other kids can’t—something dark. Something compelling her to run for her life.
 
All Crockett Grey wants is to mark the anniversary of his daughter’s death alone.
 
But when his student Jaimie comes to him, terrified, her need for protection collides with his grief, and a tangled web of bizarre events sends them both spiraling toward destruction.

Crockett’s one hope of getting his life back is to uncover the mysterious secrets of Jaimie’s past and her strange gift. It isn’t long before his discoveries lead him to a darker conspiracy, secrets guarded by the highest seat of power in the world—the Vatican.

My own thoughts:
As I read the last line of this book, I simultaneously wanted to throw the book across the room and begin reading it again.  Brouwer writes an intriguing tale with more twists and turns than most roller coasters.  Although I did not like him using the Catholic church as a "fall guy" in many ways, when I set that aspect aside, this is am intriguing book.  Aside from being worn out on negative portrayals of the church, I was able to enjoy this book and its world of mysteries.  I have realized I enjoy a book whose ending I cannot easily decipher, and this is such a book. 
The Canary List by Sigmund Brouwer (Chapter 1)

*This is a review of an advanced copy, as the release date of the book is June 21st, 2011. However, it is currently available for pre-order on Amazon.

**I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Thursday's Thoughts (a few hours early)

Yes, I am posting this a day early, I am fully aware of this.  Although my day will begin, as most of my days do, with a workout at the gym, Andy and I will then head to Brownfield to celebrate the life of an extraordinary young man.  Honestly, Colton is the kid every teacher loved to have in class, the athlete every coach enjoyed coaching, the leader every youth minister prayed for, and the kind of young man mothers want their daughters to marry.  I am praying God supplies me with supernatural strength in order to be a support for his peers.  The last year I coached in that town was my absolute favorite, and he was in the same grade as those girls I came to love so dearly.  It will hurt, deeply, to see them hurting so badly, to know there is nothing I can do to ease this for them.  And even more, to see his parents as they grieve will have me crying out to God to love them well and to glorifly himself in mighty ways.

It has been a draining week, as many in this world know.  Yet, I came across this blog and sat in jaw dropping awe at this young man's wonderful ability to weave a story while also making a strong point.  In particular, you need to read this post, and be assured that nothing in this life happens randomly or without a purpose. 

Light in the darkness.  Isn't that the heartaching beauty of life.  For every moment of grief lies a moment of joy.  For every tear shed, there is a sound of laughter.  For a life lost on earth, is a life gained in Heaven.  It is not easy friends, but this life holds an eternal value to it, if only we will trust the one who set it all into motion.

WLW: Stress eating anyone?

I returned from a great trip tired, and hit the ground running (does this surprise anyone?  didn't think so).  I returned to my regularly scheduled workouts Monday morning, and then had a day filled with some unexpectedbad news.  Although, isn't bad news usually unexpected?  Anyway, I found myself caring less about what choices I made because I was so completely drained.  It is no excuse quite honestly, but that's where I was: exhausted, grieving, and emotionally empty.  And there you have it. 

Monday I did my upper body workout and felt so good, and quite strong.  It was fabulous!  Tuesday morning I went for a jog and it was nice to be outside and moving.  Today holds a leg workout, Thursday more upper body and Friday a cardio/leg mix that will probably render me unable to walk.  But, the working out is also a great way to relieve stress, which I am in need of. 

This past weekend, while visiting friends I have not seen since we graduated from high school, I heard comment after comment on how much better I looked.  I laughed because I can be honest enough with myself to know my final year in high school and every year in college had me unhealthy and making unhealthy choices.  I know I was not at a healthy weight and was not too high on the attractive scale.  By far one of my favorite comments had to do with my arm muscles, which made me smile and feeling like I should flex.  HA!

Like everyone else, I find myself in a continuing state of process.  Learn, grow, fall, get up, continue on, make changes, take one step back, take a giant leap forward, continue on.  And that's the main thing, to keep moving on, going forward, and apply what is being learned.