Bang the Keys

Piper gives the term "bang the keys" a whole new meaning, don't you think?

When we moved this piano from my grandparents home to ours, I pictured our grandchildren one day enjoying it as much the previous four generations. 

As Piper played away, I caught a glimpse of Mama and Papa's picture that's propped atop the piano...and smiled. They would be so proud of this little great-great-granddaughter of theirs.

The video is short, but oh so sweet.

Celebrate!

Summit Church Mauldin celebrated their five-year anniversary today with an outdoor baptism and picnic, following the second service, with the congregations from Cherrydale and Spartanburg joining in the massive celebration.

The food was delish, the community, teeming with energy -- but it was the baptism that served as the highlight. How could it not? Sixteen people of various ages publicly celebrating a wondrous salvation that's already taken place inwardly. 

A few weeks ago, Jason Malone, one of the pastors at Summit, gave THE best sermon I've ever heard on the subject of baptism, which you can listen to here.  

Since our church search began back in August '11, we've had the opportunity to visit several outstanding churches, but I wouldn't be surprised if the Lord leads us to call Summit "home" very soon. 


Happy Birthday, Summit Church!

My Friday Fave - Peonies

In honor of one of my favorite flowers and poets...

Peonies

This morning the green fists of the peonies are getting ready
to break my heart
as the sun rises,
as the sun strokes them with his old, buttery fingers

and they open --
pools of lace,
white and pink --
and all day the black ants climb over them,

boring their deep and mysterious holes
into the curls,
craving the sweet sap
taking it away

to their dark, underground cities --
and all day
under the shifty wind,
as in a dance to the great wedding,

the flowers bend their bright bodies,
and tip their fragrance to the air,
and rise,
their red stems holding

all that dampness and recklessness
gladly and lightly,
and there it is again --
beauty the brave, the exemplary
blazing open.
Do you love this world?
Do you cherish your humble and silky life?
Do you adore the green grass, with its terror beneath?

Do you also hurry, half-dressed and barefoot, into the garden
and softly,
and exclaiming of their dearness,
fill your arms with the white and pink flowers,

with their honeyed heaviness, their lush trembling,
their eagerness
to be wild and perfect for a moment, before they are
nothing, forever?

-Mary Oliver

In Christ, There Are No Strangers

“It’s nothing like this in New York.”

While waiting for her groceries to be bagged, an older woman with a quick wit lectured the cashier and anyone else who would listen as to the various ways people “down here” are more helpful than the grocery attendants in NY.  Somehow she managed to segue into an Obama rant in mere seconds, instantly losing the interest of bystanders.

As I gently coaxed her out the door with me, I had the feeling I could’ve taken up a donation at that very moment and received enough money for Piper’s college education...but I digress.

With her car parked next to mine in the vast Publix parking lot, I sensed the need to trust God to keep my shrimp chilled since I was smack dab in the middle of a divine encounter.

The spunky woman described how difficult it was being a Christ-follower while living on the outskirts of NY for 35 years, and the freedom they’ve experienced since moving south. I, in turn, shared my concerns that many here stumble over the churches forged on every corner, confusing their exposure to a building with true salvation.

In those fifteen minutes, we never exchanged names but we did exchange laughter, community, encouragement -- and our personal stories of salvation. Oh, the looks we received from passersby -- but we didn’t care.

After adding one last concern for Christ followers during this election season, she thanked me for listening and said, “If Obama is elected, I’ll see you in heaven!”

I smiled and reassured her I’d see her there regardless of the outcome.

I wish I could say that I always pause to put people first, but too often I’m concerned about the perishables becoming goop in my grocery bags, staying on task, or checking off a “to-do” from my schedule. Sigh.

As we waved and drove away, I marveled at the sovereignty of God, the power of our personal stories, and the thread of familial ties that bind each of His children together...now and forever.

Judging by the Seeds, Not the Harvest

“Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds that you plant.” -Robert Louis Stevenson


You may have read in past posts how some of my friends, who just happen to be writers, have taken a local waitress under their wings. From all indications, she does not have a personal relationship with Christ, but of course, only the Lord knows.

We’ve loved on her with generous tips, small gifts, kind words, and prayers -- but last week’s table prayer was a first.

After asking the Lord to bless the French toast and bacon splattered across our plates (to which I sensed His response as "Really?"), I prayed for the health of our waitress, and then specifically for her to come to know Him. With that, we opened our eyes and discovered the waitress standing at the table waiting to fill our cups. I'm ashamed to say there was an immediate uneasiness within me. First, because it wasn't how I'd imagined sharing the Gospel with her at some point, and secondly, because that "some point" had not come sooner.

I don’t know if her overhearing my prayer will reap a spiritual harvest, but I do know a seed was planted and now I pray for opportunities to continually water it with words of encouragement and however else the Lord leads.

The beautiful part of the story - of all our stories - is that the responsibility of the harvest lies with the Creator of the seeds. We’re called to plant and to water through a variety of ways, but God alone holds the power to bring forth the growth.

 I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. 1 Cor. 3:6

 

When Pride is a Good Thing

(prd)  n.

Pleasure or satisfaction taken in an achievement, possession, or association

The word "pride" sends shivers down my spine. I've never liked it, thanks to parents and grandparents who raised me to never shine the spotlight on myself -- but on others -- and with a family like this, I have many reasons to direct the spotlight in their direction.


First, Brian the hubster ran his first 5K this morning. He not only finished, but he broke his own record by finishing in a tad over 24 minutes. He's been diligently training for weeks, and losing 20 lbs via Weight Watchers certainly helped in those efforts. So proud!   

And then here came Zach rounding the bend (below, in yellow). I thought I'd taken a closer shot of him. :(  Okay, I may not be a great photographer, but I am a proud mom.

The beaming continues...Our oldest son, Brandon, and his sweet wife, Megan, have decided to adopt from a little boy from Uganda! We're incredibly excited for them, for our family, and especially for the little one God has already chosen to be a part of our family. We look forward to welcoming our grandson "home"...hopefully before Christmas? If you'd like to follow their journey, they'll be chronicling it here. You'll also find this link on my blog roll. 

And last, but certainly not least, while Sarah was using her snappy creative skills to help a friend yesterday, guess who got to keep Piper? Yep, you guessed it. :)

This wife, mom, mom-in-law, grammy, and grammy-to-be is one proud woman.

"Every good and perfect gift is from above." James 1:17

Thank you, Lord!

Top 10 Reasons Why I Look Forward to BRMCWC

Attending the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference is rewarding in countless ways, but here are my top ten:

• Group times, key note speakers. Mornings and evenings bring times of refreshment through music and words of encouragement.

• Informative classes. Sitting in a room with like-minded people who are eager to learn is contagious. Add a speaker who is passionate about sharing his/her knowledge, and an unforgettable experience awaits.

• Reconnecting with friends. Last year, I left BRMCWC with new friendships that will last an eternity. I cannot wait to give them a big hug. 
• Making new friends. BRMCWC is a welcoming, friendly community. Unless you attend determined not to meet anyone new, you too will more than likely arrive home with lifelong friends. 
• Eating yummy food. The cafeteria offers both healthy and heavier meals -- both delicious! Their staff is the best. 
• Beautiful campus, fresh air, rocking chairs. Need I say more?
• Critique time. What better way to learn? I look forward to learning from the master, Dr. Donn Taylor, one of the most humble and wisest teachers I've ever had the pleasure of meeting. 
• Evening gatherings after group time. Oh my! Comfy couches with beautiful surroundings in the Mtn Laurel lobby is the backdrop for late night laughter, tears, readings, etc. Some of my best memories from last year originated here.
• Banquet. Celebrating the success of others is a highlight of the week for us all. 
• Sipping Starbucks at the Cloud 9 Cafe. Little ladies graciously volunteer their time to serve others and they do so with a smile. Of course, the coffee isn't bad either.

 A special thanks to Edie Melson and Alton Gansky who work tirelessly to make this conference such a success. 

May 20th cannot come soon enough. Hope to see you there!
 
 

Tucked Beneath A Thousand Excuses

A few readers, after seeing pictures of my yard in past posts, have shared how they’d love to stop by for a tour -- but if they did, they would be sorely disappointed. Yes, there are pockets of cottage charm here and there, but lurking around every corner are crowded beds, unruly wisteria, and planters filled with crispy bygones from last fall. For sanity’s sake, let’s just say they’re not...photogenic.

While focusing on a charming pocket of blooms in this morning's pictures, the Lord reminded me how it's often easier to reveal to others only those things we want them to see, while avoiding the less "photogenic" areas of our lives.

For years, I kept my fears and phobias neatly tucked beneath a thousand excuses. No one knew except for family, a few close friends, and a cognitive therapist. I was ashamed to say I trusted Christ in one breath, and struggled with fear in the next. Although I continue to battle with the less photogenic me, truth prevails -- and I am a more authentic Christ-follower because of it, flaws and all.

Consider the implications if writing was limited to only those things which bring the readers pleasure—the easy, expected, and colorful side of life while avoiding the failures, deep pitfalls, and dark days? The consequences would be numerous, with the most devastating being the countless souls deprived of the blessing found in 2 Corinthians 1.


Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ. 2 Cor. 1:3-5


Who might be comforted today in knowing they're not alone in their struggles?

Only God knows, but it begins with us refusing to tuck our less-than-photogenic selves beneath a thousand excuses.

Friday Fave - Extended Family

As Piper and I chatted today about her first beach trip in May, I couldn’t help but recall the memorable moments from my own childhood trips to the sand and the sea.

Growing up, our entire family—grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins—would rent a large beachfront house in Garden City SC. It was perfect for my grandfather, whose favorite pastime was rocking on the back screened porch, taking in the salty spray of the ocean for all it was worth.

In the mornings, dad and I would sneak out early and hunt for shark's teeth that had been stirred up and spit out overnight.

In the afternoons, we all hit the beach, jumped waves, and searched for seashells.

Evenings were always fun. Fresh seafood, putt-putt games, trips to the Yum-Yum ice cream shop (blue bubble gum with real chewy pieces churned inside out), numerous rounds of set-back (card game), and unending laughter. As an only child, this was the only time of year I felt more like Cindy on the Brady Bunch.

Although I didn’t fully appreciate it at the time, having an extended family made me feel loved and a part of something much bigger.

Our family isn’t as large now, but I look forward to introducing Piper to the yearly “Scott” beach trips I’ve enjoyed all my life and carrying on the tradition of lots of fun in the sun (with 50 SPF zinc-oxide protection, of course).

Let us savor these moments with our families, for they will emerge as memories not soon forgotten by our children and grandchildren.

[Is that "The Way We Were" I hear playing in the background?]

Spiritual Pre-Mastication

It's no surprise that Alicia Silverstone's video of pre-chewing her 10 month old's son's food, known as pre-mastication, went viral last week. For most of us, the thought of transferring food from our mouth to our child's, like a mother bird, makes us cringe a bit.

Many of us would never consider trying it. Yet, when it comes to our spiritual walk, we may find it quite tempting.

One indication that we may be practicing pre-mastication is when we find ourselves depending on a pastor’s sermon as our mainstay of spiritual food. After all, he’s done the chewing -- praying, studying, preparing -- throughout the week. Surely showing up once a week, opening our mouths Bibles and swallowing listening is sufficient.

What if we depended on one meal a week to sustain our physical bodies? We'd survive, but lack strength and endurance to accomplish all God has planned for us.

So how can we avoid spiritual pre-mastication?

• Study the Word for ourselves. Local Christian bookstores offer a plethora of studies. When we spend time going deeper in the Word's meaning, truth is transferred from the head to the heart, it's digested, and lives change.

• Consider taking notes on Sunday mornings. Engaging two senses instead of one increases the likelihood of our being able to recall the truths heard -- not only that day, but throughout the week and beyond.
  

• Meditate and memorize the Word. Meditating doesn't require a sandy beach, loose fitting clothes, or music playing softly in the background. We choose one verse a day. Write it down. Keep it with us throughout the day and re-visit it often, asking the Lord what He would have to teach us through it. When we meditate, we memorize, and when we practice these disciplines, we're digesting the living and active Word of God into our very being.

But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. John 14:26 ESV

Were It Not For Grace

Not once have I listened to this song that my heart did not explode with gratitude or the tears forget to flow. Not once.

The title says it all. Were It Not For Grace, by Larnelle Harris. It's old-school but few songs move me as much as this one does. Perhaps it's because I know how barren my life was at the age of 27 before that night in the tiny duplex when I fell to my knees and "gave up" the mess I'd made up to that point. Oh, the freedom that flooded my soul in those moments...and in the years to follow.

I can't imagine where I would be today, or my boys, if not for the glorious intervention of grace.

I pray my eyes will never remain dry when I think of all Christ accomplished for me, my family, and the world, that glorious Easter morn. Thank You, Jesus!


Were It Not For Grace

Time measured out my days
Life carried me along
In my soul I yearned to follow God
But knew Id never be so strong
I looked hard at this world
To learn how heaven could be gained
Just to end where I began
Where human effort is all in vain

[Chorus]

Were it not for grace I can tell you where Id be
Wandering down some pointless road to nowhere
With my salvation up to me I know how that would go
The battles I would face
Forever running but losing this race
Were it not for grace
So here is all my praise
Expressed with all my heart
Offered to the Friend who took my place
And ran a course I could not start
And when He saw in full
Just how much His would cost
He still went the final mile between me and heaven
So I would not be lost

Forever running but losing this race
Were it not for grace

That's My King

Now to live like it...


Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead... 1 Peter 1:3

Gravitating Towards Neon Green

Still undecided about attending the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writer's Conference next month?

Fellow Word Weaver and dear friend, Mary Denman, posted a terrific article on BRMCWC's site April 3 (scroll down) that may help you gravitate towards the neon green post-it. (I hope so!)

New friendships, fresh encouragement, and first-rate insights await. Umm...and so does Cloud 9 Coffee Shop. Need I say more?

My Friday Fave - Sunday's Coming!

In celebration of Good Friday, here's one of my absolute favorite videos. It could possibly be the most powerful few minutes you'll spend today.

Writing prompt: Spend three minutes writing down specific reasons you are thankful for this day...and remember...

Sunday's Coming!

Legacy's Writing Prompt

Each of us will leave a legacy—but what kind?

I was incredibly blessed to be able to spend much of my life with all my grandparents, but today's post celebrates my grandmother Knighton, who would've turned 97 today.

Grandmother wasn't perfect, but she did certain things that left an indelible mark on my life:

• She not only spoke of God often, she walked with Him. And she, like my other grandmother whom I recently blogged about, also prayed for me daily.

• She loved unconditionally. No jumping through the hoops required.

• She encouraged me not to grow up too soon. Early on, I faced adult situations but she insisted that I enjoy my childhood and she gave me ample space to do so, sparking creativity in this only child’s playground mind.

• She taught me how to pause. Not every moment had to be filled with a “to-do”.

• She encouraged creativity. As a child, I loved to pretend being a teacher, a dry cleaning clerk, a grocery clerk, and a hairstylist. She provided paper, groceries, clothes, my grandfather’s old calculator/cash register, and even her own hair for practice.

My list could go on for days, but here's the point: We are impacting others through our words, actions, and decisions every single moment—whether we realize it or not.

• How do you and I want to be remembered?

• Is there someone in our lives that needs to know our love is a “no-hoop” zone?

• Are we teaching those around us how to be, and not only do, based on our own schedules?

Writing prompt: Imagine your granddaughter/grandson/niece/nephew posts a blog about you 10 years from now, based on your current words, actions, and decisions. What would they share? Be as specific as possible. Is there anything you would like to change about their future post? Go!

Wordless Wednesday - What's Blooming Now?

Mini-Steps Matter

Everything about it was outside my comfort zone.

• Driving to an unknown part of town (those who know me know the struggle)
  
• I had no idea what to expect
• I knew no one
  
• Was it out of my league?
• Would I have to share my thoughts aloud in a room full of strangers? (my greatest fear!)

Comfort tried its best to persuade me to stay put, but I registered instead. And off to the Emrys poetry workshop I went on Saturday morning!

Upon arrival, I was warmly greeted by the group -- and then in came Tina Parker, a dear friend and fellow Word Weaver. To say I was delighted to have her sitting beside me is an understatement. There's nothing like being sandwiched between an Auburn grad and a lawyer!

I quickly knew I was in trouble when we were asked ten questions, such as How would you kill it? about an inanimate object—and then told we’d share all our answers with the entire group. I felt sick to my stomach, but once the rounds began, the fun kicked up a notch.

I wish I could say I’ve broken down all the barriers of my comfort zone, but I haven’t. I can, however, say that I made strides on Saturday. It was a mini-step, but a step nonetheless, and I feel I’m a better writer as a result.

I now look forward to attending Emrys $5.00 writing workshops on Sundays this summer.

Make no mistake. Mini-steps matter.

What mini-step outside your comfort zone do you need to take today?

Weekend Snippets

Somebody is ready for the beach!

Friday:

• Good results at Weight Watchers meeting. Thank you, Zumba!
  
• Work began to rebuild/refinish porch posts on our 100 year old home. Finally.
• Hubby worked all day in the yard checking off the "honey-do" list. What a guy!
• A Pride & Prejudice marathon. (Colin Firth's version, of course! Is there any other?)

Saturday:

• Poetry workshop at Emrys (future blog post)
• Piper-time in the afternoon (see above picture). Loved hanging out with the kids!
  
• Waited out a mad storm in Ross. Really? I dashed in for one item. We sat there thinking of all the places we'd rather be stuck -- but thankful to have escaped the hailstorm.
  

Sunday:

• Served as a greeter in the church we've been visiting. (Blessing alert!)
  
• Heard THE best message on baptism ever. While respectful of other modes, Jason spoke truth boldly -- based on the Word, period. I'm not sure when their sermons post online, but when they do, you can find it here.

It was a busy -- but extraordinarily blessed weekend. See picture above. Again. :)