Soul Music

Two songs I downloaded tonight sum up where I believe God has me right now. While I love both songs in their entirety, there are a few lines in each that particularly quicken my Spirit and resonate with my soul. Check out the lyrics and my comments below each of the songs, if you like.

Matthew West - The Motions

This might hurt, it's not safe
But I know that I've gotta make a change
I don't care if I break,
At least I'll be feeling something
'Cause just okay is not enough
Help me fight through the nothingness of life

I don't wanna go through the motions
I don't wanna go one more day
without Your all consuming passion inside of me
I don't wanna spend my whole life asking,
"What if I had given everything,
instead of going through the motions?"

No regrets, not this time
I'm gonna let my heart defeat my mind
Let Your love make me whole
I think I'm finally feeling something
'Cause just okay is not enough
Help me fight through the nothingness of this life

'Cause I don't wanna go through the motions
I don't wanna go one more day
without Your all consuming passion inside of me
I don't wanna spend my whole life asking,
"What if I had given everything,
instead of going through the motions?"

take me all the way (take me all the way)
take me all the way ('cause I don't wanna go through the motions)
take me all the way (I know I'm finally feeling something real)
take me all the way

I don't wanna go through the motions

Why these lyrics? I basically squandered the first 26 years of my life chasing everything but Christ. Since becoming a Christ-follower at the age of 27, my heart's all out desire has been to make the most of every moment - to use His time wisely and for His glory. When I hear the highlighted lyrics above, I find myself asking the Lord to show me those places in my life where I am simply, and unfortunately, "going through the motions" -- because those are the places I'm not allowing the Holy Spirit to take hold... and a place, quite frankly, I don't want to be.


Newsboys - Stay Strong

You're in the moment now
A bitter root
A wandering eye and then
The ties that bind start wearing thin, thin

You're in the moment now
When all you've been blessed with
Is not enough
Here's where the ground gets loose
Here's where the devils call your bluff

Stay strong
You are not lost
Come on
and fix your eyes ahead
There's a new dawn to light our day, our day
You've gotta stay strong
You and I run
For the prize that lies ahead
We've come too far to lose our way, our way

We've seen the tragic flaws
The tortured souls
The saints with feet of clay
Here's where sin becomes cliche'

We've come through wilderness
and watched
The cloud by day
The burning sky into dawn
Have you forgotten who you are?
Did you forget whose trip you're on?

Get up, there's further to go
Get up, there's more to be done
Get up, this witness is sure
Get up, this race can be won
This race can be won

We've gotta stay strong
You are not lost
Come on and fix your eyes ahead
Our Father's dawn
will light our day, our day
Come on and stay strong
His grip is sure
And His patience still endures
There'll be no letting go today, no way

Come on,
and stay strong
You and I run
For the prize that lies ahead
We've come too far to lose our way, our way

Why these lyrics? A couple days prior to hearing this song for the first time I had been asked by a woman at First Baptist to teach a lesson for a "large" women's gathering at a church out-of- town. If you know me, you know the two words "large" and "out-of-town" didn't settle well with the 'ol tummy. My fears usually get the best of me. And yet, I had not one doubt this was a door God had opened, and so I stepped through and agreed to do it. It's coming up in March, so I covet your prayers! Needless to say, the Lord used the lyrics highlighted above to infuse much needed strength and peace into my mind.

I still smile at Him every time I hear these songs play, knowing that He continues to be at work in the details.

Two of My Favs

KK & Stephie-poo

Brian and I caught KK's game tonight -- and what a game it was! She is a SCORING MACHINE! I'm convinced it was the glow-in-the-dark basketball we gave her a few years back that has brought her to this level of competence. That, and a lot of practice... and natural ability. :)

It was a lot of fun hanging out with Teresa and Steph (love the new doo!) while cheering KK on.

I guess if you count Teresa, I actually had the privilege of hanging out with THREE of my favs!!

For the Generations to Come

Last night's class was simply amazing. Obviously, it had nothing to do with me, but EVERYTHING to do with my faithful, omniscient, loving, merciful and amazing Father!

We studied Paul's prayer to the Colossae church in 1:9-14 -- and the specific way he prayed for a group of people he had never personally met.

The fact that Paul never knew this group he prayed so fervently for fascinated me several weeks back (and still does!) while preparing for this lesson. Knowing that we wanted to implement a "Go & Grow" challenge at the end of each session, I asked the Lord to show me a group of people our Tuesday night group could pray for... "a group of people we would never know." Well, the Lord didn't give me an immediate answer... so I went to Starbucks!

Pulling out of the parking lot, I turned on my radio (106.9), and this is what I immediately heard one of the morning pastors (I believe Chip Ingram) say: "Do you know that there is a group of people that you will never know who could be eternally impacted from your prayers for them today? They would be your great, great, great grandchildren and the generations to come." The tears began flowing so quickly that I almost had to pull over. Who says God is not in the details?

As I continued to drive home, a song from a few years back by Sara Groves, "Generations" immediately came to mind. There was no doubt whatsoever that our group of women needed to pray for the generations to follow -- and to leave something behind for them to know they were covered in prayer long before they came into existence.

I couldn't help but wonder, as I glanced around the room last night at some of the most faithful women of God I know, if they could be in the faith today because of the prayers from a great, great, great-grandmother or father. Only God knows.

So, last night's "Go & Grow" challenge was to write their prayer for the generations to follow, using Colossians 1:9-14 as a partial guideline. Following the challenge, we played Sara Groves song, "Generations". Check out the powerful lyrics:

I can taste the fruit of Eve
I’m aware of sickness, death and disease
The results of our choices are vast
Eve was the first but she wasn’t the last
And if I were honest with myself
Had I been standing at that tree
My mouth and my hands would be covered with fruit
Things I shouldn’t know and things I shouldn’t see

Remind me of this with every decision
Generations will reap what I sow
I can pass on a curse or a blessing
To those I will never know

She taught me to fear the serpent
I’m learning to fear myself
And all of the things I am capable of
In my search for wisdom, acceptance and wealth
And to say that the devil made me do it
Is a cop out and a lie
The devil can’t make me do anything
When I’m calling on Jesus Christ

Remind me of this with every decision
Generations will reap what I sow
I can pass on a curse or a blessing
To those I will never know

To my great, great, great grand daughter
Live in peace
To my great, great, great grand son
Live in peace
To my great, great, great grand daughter
Live in peace
To my great, great, great grand son
Live in peace, oh, live in peace

Remind me of this with every decision
Generations will reap what I sow
I can pass on a curse or a blessing
To those I will never know

Eve was the first but she wasn't the last.

Everyone then received a packet, which included stationery and a personalized envelope (thanks to my sweet hubster).


Tammy Slice and I were delighted last night when we realized we would be praying for the same great grandchildren! I have no doubt that Megan's sweet mom, Desi, is already praying for the generations to come on that side as well. The thought of having all our great, great-grandchildren encircled by prayer pretty much leaves me speechless and in complete and total awe of my faithful Pappa God.

"My mouth will tell of your righteousness, of your salvation all day long, though I know not its measure. I will come and proclaim your mighty acts, O Sovereign LORD; I will proclaim your righteousness, yours alone... Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come." Psalm 71: 15-16, 18

Happy Birthday, Brian!

Today is a very special day (or should I say was a very special day?)

Zach and Sarah met us for Brian's birthday lunch after church and then we all headed back to the house for a game of Scrabble and a piece of my Buttermilk Spice Cake with Cream Cheese frosting. We sure missed Megan and Brandon, but it was nice to hear from them via the phone.

Hanging out with family is Brian's idea of a great birthday gift and that's just one of the MANY reasons why he is such a special guy. I'm often amazed that he wasn't already taken by the time I came along, but I'm always thankful he wasn't. :) Thank You, Lord!

Happy Birthday Brian!

Who'da Thought?

This morning we headed over to NGU to watch Zach play in what was probably his last tourney on the home field, since he graduates in May. Georgia, Georgia State, Clemson, USC, Wofford and other teams were well represented in this all-day tournament as well. It was a lot of fun watching him play (especially when he scored the winning goal in the second game!) My dad was also able to come out and cheer him on, which made it even more special.

As we arrived, we greeted another player's parents and continued to bundle up, thanks to the nippy wind and drizzle. When Sarah arrived, we couldn't help but talk about wedding plans! In an attempt to include the other parents in the conversation, I mentioned how they were planning to marry in the First Baptist Chapel. Their faces immediately lit up! They, too, are members at FBC! We also discovered we attend the same service -- and then it hit me. Their family sits directly in front of us up in the balcony! Because it's never crowded up there, we always have our choice of seats and being the creature of habit that I am, it always ends up being in the same place.

We all went from being perfect strangers... to fellows believers... to sharing community... and practically shared seats... all within 5 minutes!

Who'da thought?

A Friday "Feast"

Today, we officially reserved the Elegant Gourmet for Zach and Sarah's rehearsal dinner. Not only is it crazy convenient (a walk across the street from the chapel) it is also the most scrumptious food around. I think it will be the perfect place for such an awesome celebration!

And speaking of scrumptious, my mom treated me to a grilled chicken & cranberry salad at 2 Chefs today (thanks, Mom!) We met my Aunt Shirley and cousin, Lisa. As an "only", Lisa was definitely the closest thing to a sister I had growing up. Although our paths aren't able to cross as much these days, the bond remains and always will. If you asked me to describe my Aunt Shirley, I would simply point you to Proverbs 31, for that would sum her up beautifully... and oh so accurately.

Now, I find myself savoring an afternoon cup of coffee as I enjoy the scenery outside - lots o' sunshine, warm breezes and my personal favorite... unfrozen plants.

It's been a "feasting"-kind-of-Friday, both for the taste buds and the eyes!

Who Is Your Epaphras?

Last night will be etched forever in my mind.

Thirty of the hungriest women I've ever met showed up at Karen's doorstep to begin a journey through the book of Colossians. And I'm not talking physical hunger either (although I did notice some sat closer to the kitchen than others, thanks to Karen's brownies and Stephanie's cookies!)

One of my favorite parts of teaching is learning from those who attend... and if you could see the women God has brought in to this group, you would understand why I'm looking forward to this study so much.

Last night, we covered Colossians 1:1-8. Verse 4 finds Paul thanking God for the love these believers in Colossae have for all the saints. With at least 7 different churches being represented in our group, we all agreed that regardless if we agree or disagree with fellow followers of Christ, we are commanded to love with the kind of love that serves sacrificially, waits patiently and speaks truthfully. As a result of this discussion, we are going to begin an e-prayer ministry within the group. What better way to love another? At the end of the day, it always comes back to love. Period.

We closed out our time by looking at the life of Epaphras, the faithful "fellow servant" to Paul. (v.7) Not only did he take the word of truth (gospel) back to Colossae - he also discipled them. This week's "Go & Grow" challenge is to write a note, card or letter to the person they would consider their "Epaphras" - a person who has impacted their walk with Christ in a positive way, letting them know specific ways they have made a difference.

How about you? We have no idea how God might use our words to speak encouragement into the life of that man or woman. You're welcome to join us in the challenge!

No Snow... So It's a GO!

Snow Goes East, Leaving Many Kids Disappointed

OK, I'll admit it. The child-like part of me was aching for snow. I can't remember the last time I saw the flakes fall. Ideas had been swirling around in my head about what I could do in the snow -- make snow cream, take pictures for Brian to paint, drink cups of tea while sitting on the love seat watching it fall. (I told you I had put some thought into this!)

The teacher part of me, however, was concerned it would keep our first study from taking place tonight - but it didn't. I'm so excited! Studying the Word with new friends and old -- life is good.

So ladies -- if you're checking the blog for the latest update on tonight's study -- here it is: We are ON for tonight, 6:30 pm! Email me if you have any questions.

Beginning February 8th...

FBC's Minister of Education made it official today - Brian and I will be starting a new C4 group (aka Sunday School) on Sunday, February 8th. Although Brian is feeling led to place the majority of his time in the music ministry right now, his presence, support and encouragement in the class will be priceless to me.

The plan is to keep it much like Sherri's class in that it will be open to everyone - regardless of age or marital status. While I certainly see the many advantages in same-sex classes (especially on Tuesday nights!), I have to say that I also enjoy the different dynamics that are sure to come when you mix it up. CRCC's Adult Bible Study included some of the "hungriest" adults I had ever seen or taught -- and now I'm praying God will place men and women in this class with similar appetites for His truth.

This morning, Randy continued our new series on spiritual growth, iGrowth, in Psalm 119, which holds some of my favorite verses on the Word:

• "Blessed are they who keep his statutes, and seek him with all their heart. They do nothing wrong; they walk in his ways. You have laid down precepts that are to be fully obeyed. Oh, that my ways were steadfast in obeying your decrees!" v. 2-5
• "I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands." v. 10
• "Your statutes are my delight; they are my counselors. v. 24
• "Let me understand the teaching of your precepts; then I will meditate on your wonders." v. 37
• "How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! I gain understanding from your precepts; therefore I hate every wrong path. v.104
  

Ho-hum No More!

I just finished a book, "Choosing to Learn from Life" by Mike Breen that's been my companion for the last several weeks during my 30 minute wait in the allergy clinic. It was this blurb that caught my attention: "Every day, each of us experience opportunities that we can either choose to ignore - or choose to learn and grow from. These significant - or kairos - moments were intended by God to be powerful, life-altering events. Learn the principles that can lead to unimaginable spiritual growth."

So what is a kairos moment? It is an event, moment, or crisis when time can seem to "stand still." A period of "time" when chronos (dates and clock time) is of no importance. It could mark a significant shift in your life. Mike shares that with every kairos moment in your life, Jesus gives you an opportunity to move on in your discipleship.

It's difficult to sum up such a thought-provoking piece of work, but the key words give you some idea of what brings this process full circle:

Repentance: A complete change of mind and heart. A process of transformation that takes place within a person. The process of repentance is not just a response to sin -- it is a response to our desire to do life differently.

Observe: Stop, look, and listen to what actually is happening in your kairos moment. Observation gives us a perspective - God's perspective - one that we wouldn't have otherwise.

Reflect: Ask yourselves questions about what you see and hear -- understanding is the goal! If observation brushes away the dust that covers the surface of our kairos, then reflection is a drill that penetrates the rock to reveal where the gold can be found.

Discuss: Get other people's perspectives on your observations and reflections. This is so you can be sure you are on the right track. As we go further into our reflections, asking questions and pondering over the answers, we can begin to identify what God may be trying to say to us. Receiving God's guidance in a community context was a common practice of the New Testament Church.

Yesterday, as I was finishing the final pages, I stopped and penned the words, "You are amazing, God!" on one particular page. Why? For the entire week I've been debating and praying as to whether or not I should begin next week's study in an obscure passage found in the Old Testament - one I had never noticed or read before. And there, written on the final pages of this book, was the exact passage along with a new perspective. I believe, God's perspective.

Was it a kairos moment for me? Any time I am confident that God is speaking to me personally- confirming His direction to me and loving me in a way that only I would recognize at that moment is indeed a kairos moment... and one I treasure.

Here's one last favorite quote (there were many!). If you know me, you'll know why this was underlined heavily in my book: "Planning is part of God's character - he is a God of order, not chaos. Jeremiah 29:11 tells us that God has plans for each of us - plans with a very specific purpose and intent." Love it!

I would recommend this book to anyone desiring to exchange a "ho-hum-life-is-passing-me-by" type of existence for one that is becoming progressively more aware of God's presence and promptings through His Word, repentance, observation, reflection, and community.

A Recap & Review

One word sums up last night's "Women in the Word" kick-off at Starbucks for me: Awesome! We had one of the rooms reserved but we ended up flowing over to the corner area as well once everyone showed up. It was inspiring to see all the new and familiar faces mingling over yummy cups of coffee. After encouraging everyone to carpool and prepare for coziness next Tuesday, we finally headed home -- but not before new friendships were forged and established ones were refreshed.

I've been psyched every time a new study season rolls around, but I'm especially so this time. Why?

Maybe it's:

• the study itself (can anyone say RELEVANT? Colossians shouts it out!)

• the new set-up (thank you, Karen!)

• the faithfulness of those who keep coming back (not to me - but to Him alone!)
  

• the diversity found in this group

• the new faces!

No doubt it's a combination of all the above -- but the "glue" that pulls it all together is the knowledge that God desires to do a work in each and every woman's heart -- and I can't wait to see how that is fleshed out in the coming weeks!


A quick review... tonight I began attending a new study at FBC, "Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed... A Study of David" by Priscilla Shirer (Tony Evan's daughter), Beth Moore, and my fav, Kay Arthur. It will be a good opportunity to meet some new ladies and more importantly, an opportunity to pull up to the table, open wide, and be "fed" the Word. To try and narrow down my favorite "take-away" from this week's lesson is not easy, but here goes: "His goal is that through full obedience to His call specific people in your generations will be blessed and encouraged to follow Him more fully."

(God AMAZES me!!! An idea came to mind for the "future generations" a couple of weeks ago for our Women in the Word study. I'll post it once I share it with them in two weeks.)

"For David, after serving his own generation in God's plan, fell asleep, and was buried with his fathers." (Acts 13:36, HCSB).

Women in the Word

It began as the "Monday Night Community Bible Study" back in the summer of '08 with an amazing group of women... and the upcoming Winter session, which kicks off tomorrow night at Starbucks, looks to be no exception.

With 11 new ladies set to join us for Colossians, it may seem like a strange time to begin meeting in a home instead of the local library, as we've done for both the Summer and Fall sessions, but I don't believe there's any better time! Yes, it will be "cozy" -- but I believe most women, when given the choice, will choose cozy (aka snug seating arrangements with a hot cup of coffee or tea in hand) over sterile (aka larger room with water bottles) any day. Especially on a cold winter day!

Because the meeting days will always be apt to change from season to season, we're also kicking off a new title for the group tomorrow night -- "Women in the Word". I can't imagine a more descriptive title for this group of women who will be gathering on Tuesday nights for the next 8 weeks.

"Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." Colossians 3:16,17

Thank You... thank You... thank You, Father!

Why Wait?

That's the question I felt the Lord asking me this week when I learned that a dear friend, Shari, was now considered "terminally" ill.

I kept thinking about the time she prepared a full Passover meal for our small group (which she and Rick were a part of) and the impact it made on all of us as she revealed Yeshua in every element. I doubt anyone present that evening will ever forget it. I also thought of the time she did something similar in our Adult Bible Study at CRCC on Easter Sunday 2008. (see pics below)

Shari did a beautiful job preparing this celebration for us.

A very appreciative class!

As I continued to think of the many ways her life has blessed mine (and so many others) I found myself hoping that she knew these things for herself. The epiphany that my hope could become a reality soon followed... and I began to write.

I'll be honest. I have naively presumed that those who are terminally ill probably don't want to be reminded of it (as if they could forget it) so it's easier to just keep a "happy face" and talk about anything and everything except the illness and what lies ahead. Not this time.

The Lord helped me to see that there is, in fact, no better time to come alongside my sister and cheer her on to the finish line - to encourage her to finish strong - and to keep before her the living Word of the One whose face she'll soon see.

Do I believe God could still perform a miracle in her body? Absolutely! And I pray for that believing it can happen -- but the majority of my prayer time is spent asking that she would sense His presence and love for her in ways words cannot begin to express. In the meantime, I pray the words I can express will assure Shari that her life has made a very real difference in the lives of many and especially so for the Kingdom.

Although it feels a bit strange to share all of this, I do so only because I want to encourage anyone reading this to ask yourself the same question when faced with telling a loved one goodbye: Why Wait?

Disguised Adventures

I am thoroughly enjoying my daily devotional in Beth Moore's Personal Reflection Series, "John... 90 Days with the Beloved Disciple".

Here's a brief excerpt from today's devotion. It was too good to keep to myself...

"Beloved, listen. Christ's early followers were adventurers! They were pioneers! If they listened to us sit around and decide whether we had time to work in a Bible study with prison inmates around our nail appointments, they'd be mortified. They were willing to do things we would reason couldn't possibly be the will of God (i.e., risking our necks) for the sheer joy of what lay before them. They ran the race. They didn't window shop. We are built for adventure! And often, the only thing keeping us from embarking on one is that it comes disguised as an average day."

If I were to list the top 10 adjectives to describe myself, I assure you -- "adventurous" would not be on it. I don't lose a minute of sleep wondering why I don't have it within me to scale a mountain, sky dive from an airplane, or go cave diving. However, a sleep stealer for me would include the realization that I've become too comfortable -- too safe -- in my walk with Christ.

Beth closes out the study by asking: What kind of adventure with Christ might be awaiting us before sundown tomorrow if we're looking for it?

Immediately, a ginormous (at least for me) spiritual "adventure" came to mind -- one I've been pondering over since New Year's day (I hope to share it with you soon).

But wait! Could there be smaller, yet no less important, "disguised" adventures awaiting me today? Awaiting you today?

Are we looking for it?

Happy Anniversary to Us!

It's not our wedding anniversary... but our "first date" anniversary!

My awesome hubster informed me yesterday that nineteen years ago today we went on our first date. To celebrate, he's taking me to the restaurant where this momentous occasion took place... Applebees! We'll order the same foods we had that night -- potato skins for the appetizer and the chicken finger basket with fries and honey mustard. What more could a girl ask for?

Actually, I'm trying to remember if I had dessert that night. I'm hoping I had Key Lime pie!

And speaking of momentous occasions... Sarah just posted all the details from Zach's proposal. I think you'll find it to be pretty cool.

Summing Up Sunday

• Randy kicked off 2009 with a great sermon from Exodus 4. The BIG idea: Success begins with submission to God. "As long as he sought the Lord, God gave him success." 2 Chronicles 26:5

• The challenge to live a life pleasing to God continued in Sherri's class as we studied 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12. I think many people can feel a bit overwhelmed by all the talk of resolutions, goals, evaluating their life, making improvements, etc. The enemy jumps at the chance to make them feel they have already lost the battle if they're not doing everything they know they should be doing -- and yet, what we know is that based on Lamentations 3:22-23, God's compassion towards us is new every morning. For the believer, every morning is "New Year's Day" -- an opportunity to start anew.

• We met the Slice family for an informal engagement celebration Sunday evening. It was a sweet time of fellowship. When we visited CRCC over 8 years ago, the Slice family was one of the first families we met and we've remained friends ever since. Who would have known we would end up as in-laws (not out-laws!) years down the road? Who indeed. Thank You, Lord!

• The evening ended with Sarah's brother, Tim, and another friend of Z & S's, Chris, coming back to the house for game night. Taboo was pretty hilarious. Sarah and Tim possessed mad sibling skills, which resulted in a win. Another couple, who shall remain nameless (his name begins with a "B" and hers with a "C") won at Cranium! Add a piece of my lemon pound cake to the mix, and it was a fun night to say the least.
  

I LOVE music, but the sweetest sound I'll ever hear in our home is that of laughter. It's priceless.

The Fun Has Begun!

1 new pound cake pan + 9 ingredients + 1 cohort in the kitchen =
One Amazing Poundcake!

Angie Prout and I had a blast today cooking my first pound cake in the new pan. She is an awesome cook so I knew my chances of success would greatly increase with her by my side.

After popping the cake in the oven (and licking the batter from the bowl), I was introduced to the Prout's new Wii game. Words cannot express just how grateful I was that no one was there to watch us Hula Hoop. We were getting ready to bowl when the timer went off. With Angie's convection stove it took no time at all!

Check it out:

We used Janet Langley's Lemon Sour Cream Pound Cake recipe. The cake is yummy, but the glaze is especially sweet. Our family likes lemon, but in the future, when I begin making them on a regular basis, I'll stick with a basic buttermilk pound cake just to be safe.

Needless to say, our cooking collaboration was a success -- and a whole lot of fun!

Thanks Angie!

We're in the Zone!

One of the things Brian and I look forward to the most on New Year's Eve/Day is the Twilight Zone marathon. Rod Serling was the man!

Any TZ fan has their favorites. These are my top 5
(it wasn't easy)... and the take-away:

The Changing of the Guard
A vivid reminder of how one life can impact so many others...
unbeknownst to that person.

The Obsolete Man
In the Kingdom, there's no such thing as "obsolete".

Nothing in the Dark
Robert Redford stars - need I say more?
(Brian always teases me by saying that if that is what death looks like, I'm probably ready.)

A Stop at Willoughby
Who isn't in search of a little "Willoughby"?

Time Enough at Last

Book lovers should always keep an extra pair of glasses on hand... and a bank vault.
We feel your pain, Mr. Henry Bemis!

If you're a Twilight Zone fan, I'd love to know your favorite(s)! Here's a list of episodes to help.

Holy New Year!

"Men go abroad to wonder at the heights of mountains, at the huge waves of the sea, at the long courses of rivers, at the vast compass of the ocean, at the circular motions of the stars, and they pass by themselves without wondering."
St. Augustine, Confessions

Top 10 Things I Plan to Learn, Do or Put into Practice in 2009
(in random order)

1. Learn how to knit (maybe begin a knitting group?)
2. Spend more wisely (you can stop twisting my arm now, Brian)
3. Learn a new word everyday (thanks to my new clueful calendar!)
4. Start running
5. Read less, meditate more
6. Bake pound cakes and share it with others (don't worry, Brian will be the guinea pig)
7. Become more sensitive to God's promptings/direction and less to mine
8. Teach a class at 1st Baptist, as the Lord leads
9. Be more intentional in spending time with my extended family
10. Be more concerned about holiness and less on happiness (if I hear one more person tell me they are in sin because God wants them to be happy above all else, I'm going to find a very steep mountain and jump from it [which could impede goals 1-9] -- and yet, I find myself making some of those same choices when it comes to what I listen to, what I watch, and how I spend HIS time and resources. Choosing those things which help me to become more like Christ and less like Cathy will inherently bring a joy that happiness can't touch. Temporal vs. Eternal.)

Look out 2009, here I come!

Counting My Blessings One by One

Top Ten Blessings in 2008 (in random order)

1. Good health
2. Being able to celebrate MaMa's 90th birthday
3. Brandon's opportunity to serve in Ohio and Megan's opportunity to minister in amazing ways to critically ill children
4. Zach and Sarah's engagement!
5. Reuniting with all our ex-CRCC'er friends (more like family) on a regular basis
6. Beginning a Community Bible study which God has used to bring old friends together (and introduce new ones) to studying God's Word
7. New church home
8. Seeing Brian play trumpet again and enjoying much success in his bluegrass band, Last Road
9. Having my white picket fence built and plans designed for my yard
10. Beginning this blog!

2008 held surprises, disappointments, and much joy. But the best blessing of all? None of it was a surprise to our omniscient God and I look forward to seeing how He will build upon all these blessings for His glory in 2009!