Goodbye 2007!

Now that Andrea has a blog of her own, I feel more of a responsibility to blog. She was the glue holding this site together! I'm not promising something everyday, but I will try to be more consistent.

We have had a busy and fun-filled week celebrating Christmas. Barry and I are so blessed to have both of our families living within about 3 miles of each other in Melbourne. We were able to spend lots of time with our families, visiting 3 sets of grandparents having the kids get to see all of their aunts, uncles, and cousins from both sides. We had 3 babies born in 2007 in our family and it was special to have them all together for their first Christmas.

As I look back on 2007, I have to say that I'm not sad to see it go. I have personally experienced many lows throughout the year, more than I care to count. However, there is nothing more exciting to me than being able to look back on an event or a series of events and see how God not only brought me through the fire, but made me stronger because of it. I'm not saying that I've "arrived" or that I have all the answers, but I can say that I am thankful for the lessons God has taught me throughout this year, even if those lessons did come with great pain.

There are several verses that I have clung to over the past year, but I think these are the ones that spoke to me the most...

Romans 8:35 - 40
35Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36As it is written: "For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered."[a] 37No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,[b] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

I am so excited to see what 2008 holds for my walk with Christ, my family, and c3 church. I know that no matter what, NOTHING can seperate me from the love of God!

Whoa... I must calm down!

I'm mentally preparing for a relaxing day. Sounds weird, I know. Mentally preparing to relax?! I just now feel like the holidays are finally winding down for me and I have today off... what do I do with myself?! My house is clean. My husband is fed. My cat is fed. I am fed. There aren't many errands to do. This is stressful for me! I think I'll visit with some friends today. Maybe I'll take a trip to Miss Amy's or my new friend Carrie's with Monica. We may go hang out with Angie and Byron tonight. I can't wait for that! That is always super exciting! Why can't I just sit still?! Oh well... welcome to my crazy little world! I got some blogging in though and that counts for something. Check out my new blog if you have a chance at www.andrealoper.wordpress.com. It is a place for me to filter even more crazy thoughts. I've become a bit of a "blog hog" so I created my own little blog haven.

Random Ramblings of the Sleep Deprived

This was the first year that Darrell and I volunteered our home for Christmas. I loved it but I am wiped out! We had about 25 friends and family in the house and we enjoyed every minute. We celebrated on Christmas Eve with dinner and gifts and then we had some family stay the night. Darrell and I cooked a HUGE Christmas morning brunch. I was impressed with our skills considering that we rarely ever cook. We had more friends over on Christmas Day and then we went to the movies that night. It was lots of fun but it was exhausting! I think I'll pick another holiday the next time I offer up the house though. My retail career is definitely not conducive to planning a large event at the house. I went back to work at 7:30 this morning with my house looking less than desirable when I left. I'm home now, my house is cleaner, and my feet are about to fall off from being on them all day. Enough about that craziness.

I love that my nephew Hayden was so excited that we were celebrating Jesus' birthday. His excitement is contagious! I know the story of Christmas and what Christ's birth represents in my life but there is nothing more refreshing than the faith of a child. It's just so sincere and untainted.

I gave out a bunch of the Christmas CD's at work. I had about 10 people tell me how much they loved it. It's so amazing to have such wonderful, tangible ways to share C3with others.

I'm even more anxious about the move to the theaters now! I've never wanted time to pass so quickly. I'm trying to be patient though because my momma always said that "patience is a virtue."

See you soon!

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

Merry Christmas! My family celebrates on Christmas Eve and the celebration is at our house so today will be an action packed day. I just wanted to take a minute to tell my C3 family how much I love them before the craziness of this holiday consumes me. Enjoy your holiday with your friends and family as we reflect on the greatest gift ever... the birth of our Savior. I love you all!

Love Is A Beautiful Thing

This is a group I recently discovered and love. They are from Orlando and sound a lot like The Black Eyed Peas. Check 'em out sometime! I love this song because love IS a beautiful thing!

Sunday Blog Banter

This has been the slowest Christmas season ever for me at work. I have worked in retail my whole life and have never been this bored at work during the holiday season. Well that all changed Friday and Saturday. It was as if a whirlwind of shoppers overtook Bloomingdales and specifically the YSL cosmetic counter! At one point Saturday I did in one hour the business I can do in a whole day... a busy day at that!

Saturday night my mom's community group came over after I got off of work for a Christmas party at our house. My mom has some really cool people in there. We had a lot of fun and I really enjoyed having them over. It's always a wonderful thing in my world to get to know people better. We talked about everything! I can't even recap because it literally was just about everything! I love having people over and I wish I could more often.

My mother-in-law is in North Carolina for the holidays. Darrell and I have the house to ourselves for the first time since we've lived here. We moved in April and between my sister and nephew living with us at one point and then moving her in it has been exciting in the Loper household. Quite frankly, I love them all dearly but I'm ecstatic the house is empty right now because we all need a break! I love that it is just the two of us for a couple of weeks.

I'm soooo excited to be moving to the theaters in three weeks. I can't believe it's almost here! What an amazing place for us to be to reach out to our community! I can't wait to see the main worship area and Powerhouse. I sing in Powerhouse and from what I understand the theater is going to really be crazy fun for the kids! I went to the children's ministry lunch today after service and I was so impressed with all of the volunteers who were there to serve in children's ministry. I'm so proud of what God is doing at C3! Darrell and I are pumped about all of those who have stepped up to serve in Connections as well. The curb to curb experience it so important and I'm anxious to hear and see what God is going to do through your smiling faces and warm receptions. There are so many vital areas God will use you in when you are just willing. I love the willingness of my C3 family! God will bless that more than any of us even know!

Well I'm gonna get a little shut eye before I head off on my hot date with my hot man! Have a great week and BTW check out the new C3 women's blog ... I can't wait to read some more great, encouraging blogs!

Exhaustion

Today was a lot of fun. Exhausting but fun. Here's a recap.
Woke up.
Read.
Watched "The Price Is Right"... loving Drew Carey, he's a lot nicer to the contestants.
Read some more.
Hayden came over.
Talked to Amanda.
Amanda and Leigh Ann came over.
Went to lunch with them and baby Jackson.
Headed to pick up Ansley with Amanda at her school.
Took Ansley back to my house to play with Hayden for the day.
Decided to take Ansley and Hayden to Chuck E. Cheese.
Spent hours at Chuck E. Cheese.
Mastered "Skee Ball."
Went next door to Petland.
Played with a cute puppy that loved to bite. The kids got scared.
Went through McDonald's drive through for ice cream sundaes.
Drove home.
Layed kids down at 4:30 attempting a nap.
Ansley went home.
Watched Spongebob with Hayden. I love Spongebob.
Gave Hayden a bath.
Hayden went home.
Cleaned downstairs.
Now here I am with my love D-Lo and the computer.
I love kids but they wear me out! It was fun being the cool aunt today. It was also great spending some time with good friends. Today was wonderfully tiring!

Life in the Gutter

I just finished reading "The Gutter: Where Life Is Meant To Be Lived" by Craig Gross. He is the co-founder of XXXChurch.com. This book talks about how Jesus lived a life of meeting people in their deep, dark places and how we as Christ-followers are called to do the same. It is thought provoking and insightful. I wanted to share some quotes that really stuck out to me.

-Those who are most opposed to the gutter are those who have been there the least.

-The gutter is the place where the "least of them" live. *Matthew 25:45

-If Christians would stop being scared of the world-or the gutter-I think most of them would find out for themselves that it is definitely not the place they want to be. It a change of perception I wish more people would adopt: to focus more on the great life we have in Christ than on the fleeting lures of the gutter. The more afraid we are of the gutter, the larger it looms and the more tempting it becomes.

-When you look at the way Jesus and the things He did, the way He brought light to darkness, you can plainly see we have nothing to be scared of.

-God did not create you to be a scared, irrelevant Christian.

-If you go to the gutter you have to be willing to stay in the gutter. Our Christian mentality is to visit the gutter over spring break or during a summer missions trip.

-Don't blame the dark for being dark. Blame the light for not shining on the dark.

-Jesus was a genuine lover of people, and everyone flocked to Him because He met needs, not because He preached about the kingdom of heaven. He met needs first as a practical way of showing that He loved people, then He got into the meatier theological issues.

-Whom are we fighting? Are we fighting to win the world to Christ? Or are we just fighting among ourselves in church? Are we too much about getting fed and too little about exercising our faith? Yes, we keep fighting the good fight, but must we fight our brothers and sisters in Christ? No one wins that way. Why can't we all put our focus on the lost, those living in the dark places, the "whosoevers" that are so close to Christ's heart?

-Where darkness abounds, love is brighter.

And... this was the most mind boggling to me.

-The unchurched embraced Him (Jesus) then, but they don't now. So when did this spiritual reversal occur? When did the "lost" change their position? They didn't. We did. Christians did. Somewhere between the time Jesus ascended into heaven and now, we Christians, the walking billboards for Jesus' life-changing power, have done a lousy job of maintaining His momentum. Those who despise Him shifted too. The religious who once hated Him now advertise for Him. The lost who once hung out with Him now refuse to acknowledge Him and it is all because Christians changed. God didn't change. Jesus didn't change. His people did. At one point, the God who embraced the gutter was well represented. Jesus walked the streets and took an authentic love with Him-all the way to the gutter. Wherever He went, the unchurched responded while the religious scorned. Fast forward two thousand years and now the reverse is true.

The gutter is different for everyone. God calls us each to accomplish a specific purpose. Where is your gutter? Who are those you need to reach out to in their deep, dark place? I'm challenged by this.

This Week...

...Jackson, 9 months old, started crawling -- I mean REALLY crawling. No more of that army crawling or rolling if he sees something interesting. He's exploring EVERYWHERE. We've discovered he likes cards. Maybe he'll be good at Texas Hold 'Em.

...Emma, 5 yrs. old, announced that she wishes our family celebrated Hanukkah because it starts today and they get presents for 8 days instead of just one. We thought we were doing a good job of instilling, "It is better to give than to receive". We have a long way to go!

...Ansley, 3 yrs. old, is scared to death of Santa but LOVES The Grinch. She asks about the movie everyday and gets excited when she sees the Universal billboards advertising The Grinch That Stole Christmas, but she doesn't want to go have Breakfast with Santa at the YMCA on Saturday.

...Barry moved his entire office into our bedroom. Anyone who has ever seen his office OR our bedroom knows that is no small feat. The next few months should be...interesting!

...I ran 13.1 miles. (Yes, that .1 is important...I think it was the hardest part of the entire race.) I finished in 2 hours and 20 minutes. Glad I did it, glad it's over. I also discovered that a big, fat cheeseburger from Chili's tastes REALLY good a few hours after a long run. Angie says I should drink Living Fuel for a week to replenish my body of all the nutrients I lost. I think a cheeseburger works just as well.

...I went to Ikea not once, but twice in the last 7 days. I love that place.

...I got to be a part of one of the most amazing services ever at C3, witnessing 21 baptisms.

Can't wait to see what the next 7 days holds...

A Triggered Life

It is the tendency of most people to want to surround themselves with friends who lift each other up. I'm not any different. As I go through each day I find myself drawn to those that engage in a lifestyle of encouragement. It sustains me. It is God encouraging me through those people. It is my heart's desire to be that person to others as well. My life is not my own. It is God's. I am to be an extension of His love and encouragement. I am reminded in my relationships that I have choices to make everyday. I choose if I'm going to surround myself with those who lift up or those who tear down. I choose if I'm going to press forward or if I'm going to sit and sulk. I choose if I'm going to live in self motivation or if I'm going to focus on others. I choose if I'm going to make Christ my Master or if I'm going to allow circumstances to rule my thoughts. I'm on a journey to be cheerful no matter what. When I choose to have dialog with God in every area of my life I've found that it really does make it possible to live in a cheerful and encouraging manner. He gives me the hope I need no matter what.

I've been praying a lot about some very specific areas in my life lately. I'm excited that I have the promise that God will make everything holy and whole. I know His plan is perfect. I'm refreshed with the people He's put in my life to encourage me in this. I see those in my life now doing amazing things for His glory. I'm encouraged by the selflessness. As I strive to seek Him more the "freeloaders" are finding their ways out of my life making room for the ones who truly need to know His love. The exhausted, the ones who need to be pulled to their feet... the stragglers. The ones who come with nothing and end up with everything as they find their way towards the One who completes us. It is those who are new in their walk with Christ that teach me the most at times. I'm affected by the change, the love, the hope, the journey. I'm challenged by the selflessness. The reflection of God in their lives is like food for my soul. It spurs me on to choose the things that really matter in my life. It releases me from my "freeloader" mentality. The attitude of how everything revolves around me. The attitude of "I've done this... I deserve this." The reminder is clear when I look into the eyes of my friends who have found Christ in circumstances I don't really know if I could have handled in my own life. I've done nothing and I deserve nothing. It is only by God's barbaric grace that I have everything I could possibly ever want or need. This is the encouragement. This is the hope.

My heart is full of gratitude. It beats for those who have a lifestyle of encouragement. It pushes me to encourage as well. My grateful heart presses me to come along side those who are seeking hope. I know the way of hope because I live in that hope. We are the vessels God uses to show others His light. I breathe my next breath living a triggered life. Triggered by the death and ressurection of Jesus. Triggered by His love for me. This life I have is not about MY pain, MY sufferings, MY desires, MY knowledge, MY works, MY whatever. It is about MY God and MY influence for Him to OTHERS. I must choose today to use my influence to be an encouragement. I also want to thank you for yours. No one must be left out. No one left behind.

1 Thessolonians 5:4-24
4 -8But friends, you're not in the dark, so how could you be taken off guard by any of this? You're sons of Light, daughters of Day. We live under wide open skies and know where we stand. So let's not sleepwalk through life like those others. Let's keep our eyes open and be smart. People sleep at night and get drunk at night. But not us! Since we're creatures of Day, let's act like it. Walk out into the daylight sober, dressed up in faith, love, and the hope of salvation.

9 -11God didn't set us up for an angry rejection but for salvation by our Master, Jesus Christ. He died for us, a death that triggered life. Whether we're awake with the living or asleep with the dead, we're alive with him! So speak encouraging words to one another. Build up hope so you'll all be together in this, no one left out, no one left behind. I know you're already doing this; just keep on doing it.

12 -13And now, friends, we ask you to honor those leaders who work so hard for you, who have been given the responsibility of urging and guiding you along in your obedience. Overwhelm them with appreciation and love!

13 -15Get along among yourselves, each of you doing your part. Our counsel is that you warn the freeloaders to get a move on. Gently encourage the stragglers, and reach out for the exhausted, pulling them to their feet. Be patient with each person, attentive to individual needs. And be careful that when you get on each other's nerves you don't snap at each other. Look for the best in each other, and always do your best to bring it out.

16 -18Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens. This is the way God wants you who belong to Christ Jesus to live.

19 -22Don't suppress the Spirit, and don't stifle those who have a word from the Master. On the other hand, don't be gullible. Check out everything, and keep only what's good. Throw out anything tainted with evil.

23 -24May God himself, the God who makes everything holy and whole, make you holy and whole, put you together—spirit, soul, and body—and keep you fit for the coming of our Master, Jesus Christ. The One who called you is completely dependable. If he said it, he'll do it!

The Faith Factor

I love my C3 family. It never ceases to amaze me how God can use people who have a passion for reaching out to others. All because of barbaric grace. The grace that started at Calvary on the cross and continues with you and me in our world today. It humbles me.

I reflected a lot today about fear. Pastor Byron spoke about Esther which happens to be my favorite book of the bible. I show faith when and where it is convenient for me and then wonder why I live in fear in other areas of my life. I fear many things. When I put it into perspective though I feel somewhat foolish considering that Esther's fear was a life or death issue. I'm so thankful that God's grace is sufficient even when my faith in Him is lacking. He has never let me go or given me reason to doubt yet I still want control at times. God is love. Unconditionally.

Love and gratitude to my C3 family for demonstrating God's barbaric grace. For closing the door on fear and embracing the faith. Because of your faith God is changing lives. My life is changed and I'm never going back.

The Guy and His Guitar

Darrell and I went to the Hard Rock a couple of weeks ago to see The David Crowder Band. The first opening act was "The Myriad" and they flippin' rocked and a half. They were a band with a cello, violin, guitars, drums, and keys. They reminded me of "30 Seconds to Mars." Then the second act. This poor little guy with only an acoustic guitar. I felt bad for him. After such a huge, amazing performance just an acoustic and a guy. Well.... here's that guy singing with his guitar. This song says it all. By the way, his name is Phil Wickham.

Confessions of A Reformed Joel Osteen Judger (is that a real word)?

*I absolutely cannot sleep! Darrell is away this weekend in North Carolina to meet with a Connections Pastor at a church up there. They are doing that whole "iron sharpens iron" thing. He's excited to see what he can take in from a church that has an incredible connections ministry. I couldn't get off of work so I am in bed... alone.... with Lola (my adorable cat). These are the moments I realize how codependent I really am!

I went to hear Joel Osteen tonight with my mom at the Amway Arena. I used to have feelings about Joel's ministry approach. Feelings is a nice word. I had judgements. Isn't it amazing that the largest church in America is also the most criticized? God obviously sees fit to allow blessings in his ministry in a major way. I sat there tonight and heard truth from the scripture. It spoke to me and it was what I needed to hear. I saw an arena full of people out on a Friday night worshipping God and listening intently to a message from Him. He spoke on joy. JOY! I love joy! I want to pursue more joy! God wants us to pursue Him... the giver of that joy. I told my mom after the message that I'm going to try really hard to not let others steal my joy. This is a tough one for me. I don't know Mr. Osteen but it seems as though he is just trying to pursue a vision bigger than himself. A God-sized vision. It seems as though he knows his gifts and uses those to reach out to those who are without hope. I can't speak for him but I'm done judging his approach or methods. I connected with God in a very real way tonight. God has set apart Lakewood Church and Joel Osteen for a reason.

Sounds familiar. C3 may not be seating tens upon thousands in arenas... yet :) but the vision is clear. We have been set apart for a purpose. Twenty one people will be publicly acknowledging their new life with Christ this Sunday in baptism. If that isn't God's blessing then I don't know what is?! I sat in an arena tonight realizing that ANYTHING is possible with God. It is not about filling an auditorium for the sake of a numerical digit. Each and every seat represented a life... a changed life. God has shown Himself incredibly faithful to me as I've seen the one by one turn into hundreds in just a year. God is allowing a buzz to be spread about C3 and what we stand for. We aren't a body of "churched" people... we are the church. We have the privilege of being led by a pastor who stands firm to what God has called him to. With that has come its fair share of critics but that's okay. Jesus had more than His fair share of critics too. They were too churched for their own good (much like myself at one point). I think we're in good company. So I have joy! Joy in the fact that God is blessing in huge ways. Joy in knowing that God is using the greatest church in the world, C3, to accomplish the Great Commission here in my community. Joy in knowing that things are only just beginning. God rocks my socks off!

My Two Dudes

I just thought I'd share my new favorite picture. These are the two men in my life. My handsome hubby Darrell and his little protege Hayden (my nephew). Matching hair, jackets and so on! Love it!

It's a C3 Christmas!

The moment consumed me. I'm still taking in the emotion of it all. The service yesterday was crazy cool! I am so proud to be a part of a community of faith that puts action behind the talk. God makes it clear that the world will know we are His people by our love. It is amazing how intentional we are free to be with that love this Christmas season. God has blessed me beyond measure and I'm so excited to be a blessing to others through the C3 Christmas Project. The anticipation of it all overwhelms me! I can't wait to hear your stories!
christmas@c3orlando.com

Empty Ritual

I went to hear Rob Bell speak at the Hard Rock this week with Darrell and a bunch of C3 folks. It was AMAZING! Here is a little more of Rob speaking in one of his NOOMA videos about empty rituals. If you ever have a chance check out some of the NOOMA video series. This one is entitled "Sunday."

Happy Thanksgiving!

I'm thankful for many things. Here is a sampling of what I will be thanking God for today!

-My Savior Jesus who teaches me to love daily through His example of love and grace.
-My hot hubby Darrell who makes me feel like the most important person in the world. I love him to infinity!
-My mom, dad, sisters, nephew and mother-in-law who all make me laugh.
-My fun and boisterous extended family.
-For my dad visiting a church where he lives.
-A church family that supports God's work in the ministry of C3. I love seeing all the new faces each week. It blesses me beyond what anyone will ever know to meet so many authentic people.
-A pastor and wife who are not just that to me but friends... no... family that have shown me mutual support and love. They have been tremendous examples Christ's undying passion for the lost.
-The most unconditionally supportive group of friends I could ever imagine. It has been difficult getting to the core of who they truly are but I'm eternally grateful for knowing who will stick by me and trust my character. I love you!
-Seeing God work in my friend's lives this year unlike any other previously. I'm thankful for that confirmation of God's blessing in my life.
-I'm thankful for the people who have TRIED to stand in opposition of God's calling in my life. God used these circumstances to show me His strength.
-God's plan for my life.
-My job.
-A beautiful home that I am comfortable and safe in.
-My country and those have fought and still are fighting for it.
-The person who walks by and smiles even if I don't know them.
-Regal Cinemas Waterford Lakes.
-My health.
On a lighter note...
-My hairstylist.
-The person who created funnel cakes.
-The inventor of stilettos.
-Great lighting on a day that I don't look so good!
-Reality TV when I want a little less reality.
Have a Happy Thanksgiving and don't forget to thank God for the big and the small. It all matters to Him!

1 Chronicles 16:34
Give thanks to God—he is good and his love never quits.

Monday Ramblings

First and foremost... I miss you Angie... terribly. Come home soon! There was a little less "sparkle" in my life this weekend. I miss you and your glittery eyes, shirt, jewelery, and so on and so forth. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving with the family!

Life is so busy. I'm going to do some painting tomorrow and I'm really looking forward to it. It is like stress relief for me. I love to paint. I just like making things pretty. It sounds so superficial but I love pretty things. Pretty is subjective though. I don't think everyone enjoys the pretty I enjoy. I loved my crayola red hair. I thought it was pretty. My mom... not so much. She never said it but our bond is so tight that I could read it in the bewildered look in her eyes.

My sister Brittney is celebrating her 25th birthday tomorrow. I can't believe it! She is such a vivacious, beautiful, and talented person. I'm so proud she is my sister. I've enjoyed having her around the last couple of months. She is such an amazing mom to my nephew Hayden. He is SO smart and she has a lot to do with it. I can't imagine what it's like to be a mom... let alone a single mom. She is the best! I love you Brittney and look forward to hanging out with you tomorrow. I really am insanely proud of you!

I'm really tired and I'm afraid if I continue I might start telling some really embarrassing stories about Brittney and I growing up. Nostalgia can conjer up some crazy things. I'm gonna stop while I'm ahead. Good night!

The New Ikea...

IS AMAZING!

Everyone who knows me knows how much I love to shop...and get a good bargain! That is why I wanted to visit the new Ikea store that just opened 2 days ago near the Mall at Mellina. I talked Barry into going with me and HE even loved it! (BTW...Barry loves shopping about as much as I love doing the laundry.)

I was blown away by the parking attendants who led us to a front row spot, the great customer service, ease of finding my way around (the entire store is 309,000 square feet!), and overall layout of the store. If you haven't checked it out yet, I would advise going on a weekday morning. We got there right when it opened and stayed about 2 hours (not nearly long enough to see everything) and when we left (before noon), the parking lot was almost full.

I am looking forward to going again soon. Happy shopping!

Complaining or Worshiping?

Just got done reading my chapters for home team tonight. We're going through Mark Batterson's book, In a Pit With a Lion on a Snowy Day. (I know, strange title...read this for more insight on what the book is based on.)

I just completed the 4th chapter of the book, but so far, I have been challenged by most of what I have read. The part of my reading today that struck me the most was this:

"I think there are basically two types of people in the world: complainers and worshipers. And there isn't much circumstantial difference between the two. Complainers will always find something to complain about. Worshipers will always find something to praise God about. They simply have different default settings."

I love this! I want to be known, by God and others, as a worshiper, not a complainer. I want to begin praying, not that my situations and circumstances would change, but that my ATTITUDE will change when I find myself in "a pit".

Teach In

I spent some time today in Ms. Fryfogle's fourth grade class at Vista Lakes Elementary. I had a lot of fun with the kids! Ms. Fryfogle happens to be my sister Cassie. Today was teach in day. Basically it was a day for adults to come in and talk about their job. We called it Career Day back in the 80's. I took Leigh Ann Ward with me. She was my model as I did makeup for the class. We started with natural makeup and then moved on to the really funky stuff. I kept it decent enough for lunch out later. I could have really gone dramatic but I held back a little. It was the first time she ever wore fake eyelashes. The kids told us we were pretty and had a lot of interesting questions. I like anyone who says I'm pretty. They became my new BFF's! One little boy showed me his notebook of artwork. He is very talented. I told him to keep it up. I love it when adults nurture the artistic side in children. Who knows what we are suppressing when we don't encourage our children's creativity? They are the next generation of innovators. I think our educational system is a bit too textbook and not enough hands on or creative. Kids are all expected to learn in the same way. I struggled with that when I was young. I've always felt somewhat intelligent but I was always discouraged in the manner in which I was expected to learn. That's a whole tangent I won't go into further though. I called Ms. Fryfogle Cassie a couple of times. Not very appropriate or respectful. Oh well, we grew up together... all appropriate behavior flies out the window. I loved it and always enjoy hanging out with children. They are SO crazy and fun! My sister is great with children and I know she is an amazing teacher. I hope I can go back and visit all of my new friends soon!

Read it... Loved it.... Had to Share it

I was reading an article today in RELEVANT LEADER magazine by Jim Palmer. I loved it so much I read an excerpt from it again to a friend. We discussed it and had a great conversation. So now I want to share the excerpt with you.

"Who is our Creator? God. Who is God? God is spirit. Therefore, I am more than just my physical biology; I am also a spiritual being. Who is God? God is Love. This means far more than God simply choosing at times to offer Love or act in Loving ways. God's Love is not a spigot that He turns on and off, depending upon conditions, circumstances or how good you are. God is Love, which means that at every moment God's Love flows and is available to all people, all the time, everywhere, without condition. All that's left is to remove the blocks to the awareness of Love's presence; Love is our natural inheritance as people made in the image of God.
Many people don't feel God's Love for them inside, and see very little Love in the world. A person's present life situation may include being surrounded by people who continually express judgment and rejection. Then they come to church, and feel like they get more of the same. Churches are filled with people who hate themselves and are convinced God does too.
What if we started telling people they are Love, as images of God? Sure, we might not Love at times, but our behavior and attitudes don't create our identity; rather, our identity creates our behavior and attitudes. Whoever a man thinks he is determines what he says and does. If God is Love and I am His creation, then I am Love. If I am Love, then I must do what Love would do. Be Love. This is how Jesus lived, and what it means to be His disciple."

Just thought I'd share.

Hurray for my 'Manda Lou!

Today is a special day! It's the day "'Manda Lou" was born...better known as our own Amanda (of the "At Home with Amanda" fame! Martha, eat your heart out!)
There are many things I could say about Amanda:
* She's a wonderful mother who really "makes" a home.
* She's a wife who supports, encourages and stands firm no matter what!
* She's a leader of worship...and "so C3".
* She's a devoted and loyal friend...everyone should be blessed to have someone like her in their corner!
* She loves people and loves seeing them "embrace the Grace" (Love Wins, yea!).

But, most of all, she is passionate about her love of Christ and her desire for others to know Him.

And, she's been a friend to me...well, I could never do justice to what her friendship has meant. I thank God for giving Amanda to us...to me.
'Manda Lou, I'm so glad you were born!!!!!!

Happy, Happy Birthday!
Love...and Peace out, Angie

A Day in Bed

I'm not feeling very well today. I stayed home from work. I really needed to rest. It was the seventh day of a nine day stretch with a conference and a huge wedding on my two "days off." I was starting to feel bad yesterday but after waking up a couple of times in the middle of the night last night I couldn't take it anymore.

I'm so thankful for Darrell. He tells me I'm patient. I don't think I am. I can buckle under stress. I never used to cry. That changed about two years ago. I've become more emotional. It's weird! Maybe I thrive on stress. Who knows? What would I do if things were actually calm and monotonous everyday? I think that might be somewhat boring. I've learned to embrace chaos... to an extent.

My friend and I talked on the phone for quite a while today. God is doing something big in her life. It is SOOOOO amazing. I have faith she will be giving her life to Him soon. Pray for her.

I've become the "old married woman" at work that all the single girls love to share their relationship stuff with. It feels kind of nice to know that people trust what I have to say. I feel somewhat inadequate and majorly blessed that I have an amazing husband that makes things as easy as possible for me to love him. I'm glad that I'm the "old married woman." Dating kinda stunk.

I love C3 and I am so excited about what God is doing in our community! I'm crazy ecstatic about the theaters! I can't even begin to tell you. I wanna invite EVERYONE! Do me a favor... invite everyone for me and I'll invite everyone for you. That way we will literally be inviting everyone. Imagine all of your friends and family experiencing life change. God desires it. Your friends and family desire it... they just may not know it yet! Who doesn't want to feel new?

CU at C3!

Look To You

Lessons I've Learned on Love

Love abounds in the subtle gestures
It reveals itself in the extravagant outpourings
Love requires growth and demands truth
It conquers an insurmountable task
Yet flourishes in the routine

Love examines motive while extending grace
It is strong, needy, painful, joyous intertwined in a meticulous balance
Love encourages stability and relishes in the spontaneous
It delights in victory and conquers defeat

Love grounds itself in faith
While nurturing itself in community
Love accomplishes what is promised
It leaves no room for gray

Love barters pain for peace
Love fights with an unbridled passion
Silently screaming
Love multiplies through a smile
It overcomes with action

Love shields and protects
It welcomes with extended arms

Love shifts a mood
It calms the emotional twitch
It generously forgives and acknowledges the best
Love reveals the heart and directs the soul

Love is a calling.
Love is a movement.
Love is a choice.
Love is a lifestyle.

God is Love.
Love God. Love others.
Love never fails.

At Home With Amanda

Just made these yummy sticky buns. (Yes, I made sticky buns for dinner!)

I got the recipe from my recent edition of Real Simple. Only 5 ingredients and SO simple! (My kind of recipe!) Hope you enjoy...

1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter thinly sliced into 10 pieces
1 medium banana, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons dk. brown sugar
1/2 c. pecans, chopped (about 2 ounces)
1 (7.5 ounce) tube refrigerated buttermilk biscuits

Heat oven to 375 degrees

Drop a piece of butter in the bottom of each of 10 compartments of a muffin tin. Arrange the banana slices on top. Sprinkle with pecans and brown sugar over the bananas. Top each compartment with a biscuit.

Bake until golden brown, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from oven.

Place a baking sheet on top of the tin while the buns are still hot. Carefully flip the tin over, tapping the bottom to release the buns.

Enjoy!

Loving the Rain

Most days I don't like rain. I don't like the overcast weather. I don't like how frizzy my hair gets when it's raining outside. I don't like the overall dreary feeling of rainy days.

Today was different. I was outside pulling some weeds in our front yard and our girls were playing soccer in the grass. All of a sudden HUGE raindrops started falling from the sky. The girls screamed and ran into the garage and yelled for me to come in so I wouldn't get wet. I stayed, continuing the dreaded task of pulling the weeds. After they saw I wasn't melting, I told them they could join me in the rain. They looked at me like I had a third eyeball. Emma, our practical one, said, "Mom, are you serious? We're going to get all wet." After I assured them that it was fine, they came out in the POURING down rain.

We ran around in our driveway, chasing each other, jumping in the puddles for the next 15 minutes. They kept saying things like, "This is so much fun!" "This is better than Sea World!" and "This is the best day ever!"

After we came in from the rain and dried off, I realized how much fun a simple thing like playing in the rain can be. I was also reminded to appreciate the "rain" in my life. This year I've learned a lot about walking through the storms of life. I've learned that even though it's not always fun to be stuck in the rain or in the middle of a storm, God NEVER lets go of me. He carries me through and the storms help mold me more into the person God wants me to be.

I can truly say I am thankful for the rain: the rain I played in today with my daughters and the rain in life that God brings my way!

Back to Blogland

Wow! It's been a while since I've posted. Thought I would update everyone on what's been going on in my life. Our family passed around a nasty stomach bug last week and I think everyone is finally over it. Now we're on to coughs and colds. I'll take that ANYDAY over the stomach bug! As Ansley put it, "That bug is MEAN! I do not want it in my belly EH-VAH!"

Jackson has had to begin breathing treatments with a nebulizer for this nasty cough he's had for over a month. I thought I would share a picture of him...he has to do this twice a day for the next month. I thought it was going to be a horrible experience, but he actually LOVES it...he thinks its a new toy! (And now he doesn't sound like a 9 month old smoker!)

We headed to Tallahassee for the FSU/Miami game and had a great time with friends and family. We had to drive up in two separate cars due to a small accident that happened in our driveway. For those of you who have known me for a while know that I have a history of hitting stationary objects. It's a long story, but because of MY stupidity, Barry got to drive a nice sports car up to Tallahassee. He was knocked down a few notches back to reality when he had to drive his Corolla back home! (Or as I have affectionately labeled it, the "ghetto-rolla".) Here is a cute picture of the girls before the game.

I'm training for a 1/2 marathon on December 1. This is my second 1/2 marathon, so after I run this, can I say that I've run a full marathon? Training has been time-consuming and I'm looking forward to race day!

It's been a busy and fun-filled fall. I can't believe the holidays are just around the corner...I love this time of year and the cooler weather makes the fact that it's fall a little more believable!

It's good to be back in blogland!

A Delicate Weave

A couple of blogs back I told you about my friend Miss Amy. Today was the day I brought her the peaches. Something divine happened. There was a knock on her door. Miss Amy asked me to get it... so I did. There were 2 pastors from another church in our community there. One of them I know very well. He is an older gentleman that pastors a senior adult ministry. He's known me and my family since I was 2 years old. Imagine the stories he has about me! I love this man and his family very much. He truly has a heart for the seniors in our community and works his tail off to reach just one more. He serves in a very different church environment than ours at C3 but he is flat out getting it done for Christ in his community. He told me that he met Miss Amy just recently and that she had just prayed to receive Christ. I was almost in tears! This is what ministry is all about! I knew God had put Miss Amy in my life for a reason and today it all became clear. I may not have been there when she prayed her prayer of faith but I know God has used me to plant some seeds of love. Furthermore her nurse told us that right before Bill got really sick he gave his life to Christ as well. Her nurse is a Christ-follower and led Bill to the Lord. I am so thankful for these people in Miss Amy's life. These are the moments where life really matters. God places us around certain people for a very specific purpose. We all have different stories and different backgrounds. God uses many methods to reach those around us. I'm so grateful for the methods of C3. We are tirelessly devoted. I'm also grateful for the methods of my pastor friend and Miss Amy's nurse. It was a delicate weave that God knit together to bring Miss Amy to a relationship with Him. I love Miss Amy and I know that she would NEVER feel comfortable with the worship environment at C3 as an 89 year old woman. That's okay! I'm not insulted. My immediate circle of unchurched friends would probably NEVER feel comfortable in the worship environment of traditional churches. That okay too! We all serve a purpose for those who need hope. Thank you for your prayers for Miss Amy... God really does answer. His will is to always answer in a way that brings us together not tears us apart. This is something I've always known but needed to be reminded of.

Procrastination Blogging

I need to clean my house and do some laundry but I don't feel like it. I think I'll give myself a time... let's say I MUST start by 3:00pm.

Darrell and I had lunch at Designer Greens at Waterford Lakes and I loved my salad. It was yummy! I love spending time with him even if it is just an hour out of the day to have a quick bite to eat. He looks really cute today. We made plans to see the new Tyler Perry movie tonight. I'm looking forward to it. I love to talk to him. I can tell him anything. He never judges me. A couple of weeks ago I told him about getting a speeding ticket. He was so nice to me about it. I felt dumb and he never made me feel worse about myself for it. I'm grateful for his gift of mercy. I needed it then. He makes me feel protected and unconditionally loved. He's the best!

Work has been great the last couple of days. I've been really busy and I've met a lot of nice, new clients. I have a very large wedding to do soon and I'm looking forward to that. I'm praying for some particular avenues to open up for me in my freelance career. I've had a lot of referrals lately for fashion shows, weddings, and photo shoots but it would be amazing to have more consistent work. That's the con of working full time for a steady stream of income vs. being able to get out there and promote my work but losing out on a weekly paycheck. I love what I do so much and I would be so bored if I wasn't always busy.

My mom was away this weekend and I missed seeing her. I'm glad she got to have a little time in North Carolina though with her sister and family. She does SO much and never gets the credit she deserves. She lives with and takes care of my grandmother. My grandma has dimensia or alzheimers. I don't really know exactly what because alzheimers and dimensia look very similar. She has been sick for about 5 years. My mom also watches my nephew a lot. She is the best mom/daughter/grandma anyone could ask for. She is beautiful both inside and out.

I enjoy playing Freecell on the computer... it's a great stress relief.

Lola (my beautiful cat) is so precious. She loves to sit at my feet and purrrrr. She is so playful and crazy. She acts like she is still a kitten the way she runs through the house playing hide and seek. She loves Darrell more than she loves me though. I have her all to myself today though so I get all her love. (I get a little jealous.)

Eight minutes until I need to clean. I better go. I need to get in my obsessive compulsive state of mind.

My Dwelling Place

When I'm in a funk I try to focus on the things that make me happy. I had some funky moments this week and here are some of the things that I've been dwelling on to make me smile. No more funk for me.

-seeing people out with their C3 shirts on
-my own stupid jokes that only I laugh at
-obscenely bright nail polish and lipstick colors
-vivid color in general
-reading my bible and the words hitting me right when and where I need it
-an encouraging word
-climbing into bed right after putting clean sheets on it
-Darrell rubbing what I consider my pudgy belly and telling me he loves it... or when he tells me he loves it and lays his head on it
-fabulous shoes/handbags
-a good read
-makeup... lots and lots of makeup!
-having a great meal and discussion with friends... hence, the pudgy belly
-seeing friends I've invited in church... regularly
-spontaneous silliness
-an awesome day after a crappy one
-laughing so hard it hurts
-hearing about my nephew Hayden's day
-getting ManPed's (manicure/pedicures)
-having code words for things... such as ManPed's
-getting my hair done
-my "CU AT C3" custom license plate on my car
-Madea
-having a weekend off from work
-sleeping in
-smokey eye makeup
-a smile from a stranger
-feeling safe with someone
-HGTV... particularly "Divine Design" and "Deserving Design"
-houndstooth print
-my friend's artwork
-hanging out with my mama and sisters (I don't do this enough)
-dancing a night away
-reconnecting with an old friend
-telling people the stupid things I did when I was younger to get a reaction
-Powerhouse kids
-teasing my mother-in-law
-our Sunday night dinners with Dan and Sally
-cruises
-C3 on Sunday
-making new friends
-talking to my dad on a good day
-seeing someones life change after meeting Christ
-the way the red candles smell from Pier One
-great design
-a fresh perspective
-singing in my car
-setting goals and meeting them
-C3 in the community
-Johnny and Jayde in the morning on XL 106.7 while driving to work
-knowing when someone says they'll pray for me they really will
-Darrell's new faux hawk
-going to Chuck E. Cheese with Hayden
-young adults home team
-C3's future

Praising Jesus Yolanda's Way

I replayed this song a lot today in the car. You don't want to know how I sounded singing along with it. I'm no Yolanda. God has truly blessed this woman with the most beautiful vocal instrument of all time. I love when the song hits the middle and then ends. She just belts it out to Jesus. The words are so powerful. Check it out.

There is a name that is so precious,
a name so wonderful to me.
This name is worthy of all praises.
Because of him, I am made free.
That name is Jesus, oh how I love him.
The one who gave, his life for me.
Because of love, so unconditional,
I will have life, eternally.

This name speaks peace, unto my storm clouds,
This name speaks calm, unto me fears.
And when I feel, that no one loves me.
His loving presence is so near.
That name is Jesus, oh how I love him.
The one who gave, his life for me.
Because of love, so unconditional,
I will have life, eternally.

Praise that name!
Praise that name!
Praise that name!
Praise that name!

Someday I'll leave this earthly dwelling,
Through time and space, my soul will soar.
And finally see the face of Jesus.
And praise his name, forevermore!
That name is Jesus, oh how I love him!
The one who gave his life for me!
Because of love so unconditional,
I will have life eternally.
Excellent is that name!
Glorious is that name!
Wonderful is that name!
Oh praise that name!

Fruit Logs and Peaches

I went to visit my friend yesterday. It was my last day off in a six day stretch. I wanted to spend some quality time with her because what seems so like little to me is a huge deal to her. My friends name is Miss Amy. I love her. She is so sweet to me and she has a funny door mat. It says, "well butter my butt and call me a bisquit... look who's here." Miss Amy used to call me when I worked at Saks to place her Estee Lauder phone orders. She would have her products sent because she doesn't leave her house much. Miss Amy's husband had alzheimer's and she loved him very much. She stays home because she is sick a lot and very fragile herself. I vividly remember how she would call and get impatient with me on the phone. I had to meet her. She was fiesty! One day I offered to take her products to her house myself... and so began a beautiful friendship. I've been visiting her regularly now for about two and a half years. In that time her husband, Bill, passed away. She has great stories of how much they loved each other. They lived in England and had great careers in government. She is highly opinionated, educated and adorable at the same time. I really enjoy Miss Amy if you can't tell. She always orders a fruit log for me every Christmas from her favorite bakery in England. She bought Darrell some golf balls out of a catalog. She is so thoughtful. Miss Amy wasn't doing to well yesterday. She is getting very sick due to the natural aging process. She says she has never truly felt well since Bill left her. Pray for Miss Amy. She asks me about having a baby constantly (along with everyone else!) She smiled so beautifully yesterday when I told her that Darrell and I will start trying to get pregnant soon. Amidst her pain... she smiled. It was so pure and gorgeous. I will see her again next Tuesday. She asked me to bring "a half a dozen of so" of some peaches. Secretly, I always pray for a next time with Miss Amy. So here is to Miss Amy, fruit logs and peaches!

God's Dress Code

Colossians 3:12-17:

12 -14So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It's your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it.
15 -17Let the peace of Christ keep you in tune with each other, in step with each other. None of this going off and doing your own thing. And cultivate thankfulness. Let the Word of Christ—the Message—have the run of the house. Give it plenty of room in your lives. Instruct and direct one another using good common sense. And sing, sing your hearts out to God! Let every detail in your lives—words, actions, whatever—be done in the name of the Master, Jesus, thanking God the Father every step of the way.

Sometimes there is just no need for my commentary. This just says it all for me today. What else can I say other than I need to be more like this.

Whatever It Takes

I found a deal and I'm the proud owner of a 2008 black Toyota Camry! Yeah! They hooked me up here. The service was fantastic and I have a lower car payment! Gotta love it! (That just sounded like a commercial... forgive me but I'm excited!) Their tag line is true. I haggled tough and they did "whatever it takes." I love my car and we have a relationship. What will I name her?

Madea Teaches the Bible

Catching up with Madea- from "Madea Goes To Jail"

A little comic relief... watch your "interpretations!"

Six Days of Bliss

I will be off from work for the next six days. I'm so excited because I just worked a long stretch of days to get here. It is nice to just rest. I've scheduled nothing but I am up for anything. I want to be spontaneous and available. Here is a general idea of some things I may be participating in.

-Cleaning and laundry
-Hang out with my hubby
-Spend time with my family
-Catch up with friends
-Head up to Universal to buy some tickets at Hard Rock
-Sleep a lot
-Go get a ManPed (what my sister's and I call Manicure/Pedicures)
-See a movie with my mother-in-law
-Contact some of my clients (my freelance work)
-Go to the Yves Saint Laurent company warehouse and trade some labor to get new FREE makeup (I love my boss... she hooks me up!)
-Set up a photo shoot to update my portfolio
-Finish reading Mark, move on to Luke in my bible... reading in general
-Go to church on Sunday (I'm so excited about the new series, "Dirty Little Secrets")and have lunch with my FOUR friends that will be coming for the first time!
-Watch some Tyler Perry/Madea stuff... the best plays and movies ever!
-Sleep a lot
-Update my facebook
-Blog
-Surround myself with positive, uplifting people, things, and activities
-Visit my friend Miss Amy
-Sleep a lot
-Force myself into the gym
-Look into trading in my car if I can get a deal
-Strategize my future goals
-Love my time and enjoy every minute
-The thing I'm most excited about... CU at C3!

I'm ready... let the fun begin. I just hope it doesn't fly by too quickly!

What I've Done

I'm forgiving what I've done.
Now what will I do?
Deuteronomy 15:10
Give freely and spontaneously. Don't have a stingy heart. The way you handle matters like this triggers God, your God's, blessing in everything you do, all your work and ventures. There are always going to be poor and needy people among you. So I command you: Always be generous, open purse and hands, give to your neighbors in trouble, your poor and hurting neighbors

Waiting for the Sunrise

On Thursday morning I watched the sunrise from above the clouds. It was nothing less than breathtaking. Vivid shades of orange and pink transformed the sky into a work of art. But before long some dark billowing clouds rolled in and covered the sun. I watched the black clouds and the lightening striking within the clouds for only a few minutes and then tried to get some rest. I was awakened by the bright sun blaring through the window of the plane. All the dark clouds were gone and there was nothing but blue sky and sunshine.

I spent the next 2 ½ days at a hospital by my Dad’s bedside; holding his hand, stroking his head and telling him how much I love him. Even though I knew he was ready to go to heaven, I just wasn’t quite ready to let him go. On Saturday morning around 6 am he took his final breaths and made the transition from earth to heaven. I’m sure all of heaven was rejoicing as my Dad entered the gates to meet Jesus.

There’s so much I could say about my Dad. He was an awesome dad and grandfather. He always considered the needs of others above himself. He even told everyone that he wouldn’t die until I had the opportunity to get to Pennsylvania to say goodbye to him. He even waited until Travis and the boys made the long 20 hour drive. Just hours after Caleb and Luke said goodbye to their grandpa he passed away. He considered himself lucky that he had the opportunity to say goodbye to the people he loved the most. Not all of us will have this opportunity, but we do have the opportunity to be prepared for the day when our lives here on earth will end, whatever the circumstances. My dad accepted Christ when he was in his 40’s. On that day he secured his salvation and his eternity with Christ in preparation for this time. My dad loved his Lord and never hesitated to share that love with the people around him. He had the awesome privilege to lead my grandmother and my aunt to Christ before they passed away. Even on his death bed his biggest concern was for the salvation of his brother. Through the oxygen mask he shared the Gospel and urged his brother to accept Christ so he could see him again someday in heaven.

The last few days have been so crazy. Right now I feel like I’m trapped in those big black billowing clouds. But I know that God has more beautiful sunrises and bright sunny days ahead for me. Thanks to the love, encouragement, support, and prayers of my husband, family, and friends those sunrises won’t be too far off. Maybe this morning my Dad got to see the sunrise from above the clouds…or maybe there were too many other amazing things to see and do in heaven to be bothered with a boring old sunrise.

Still... a Jesus Freak

I was a MAJOR DC Talk fan as a kid. Here's a flashback to my teenage years. This is my favorite song by them. What will people think?!

Praying for You...

Dear Readers: Please pray for Sandi and Travis and the boys. Sandi's father has taken a turn for the worse, and she is trying to get to him as quickly as possible. Please pray for her dad, for safe travel, and for the family during this difficult time.

Dear Sandi:
We love you, and pray for safe travel, peace and calmness for you tonight, and comfort and healing for your dad. Please know that you are not alone. We are with you, and will continue to lift you up.

Love,

Your Sisters.

Peace to you.

No Place Like Home

I got back from LA last night around 9:30. For those of you who don't know, I went out to California to visit my brother and sister-in-law and meet my new niece, Kylie Reese. I had a great time visiting with my brother and Robin. We even got to see a couple of stars! (Crystal Bernard from Wings and Sela Ward) We did a few touristy kind of things but mostly just hung out at their apartment in Santa Monica.

Kylie is a very laid back, easy-going baby. She is so sweet! Tim and Robin are adjusting to parenthood and are doing a great job! I hate that they are so far away, but am very thankful for the time I got to spend with them.

Barry did an awesome job taking care of the kids while I was away. I missed them terribly and I am so happy to be home!

Invisible Children of Uganda

Don't Walk By

Please join me in prayer for Uganda.
For the children. For peace. Love demands that we make ourselves aware - let us really SEE their suffering, and then not just see and do nothing. We can pray now, and act when the opportunity arises...and it will arise.

Pray.
Educate yourself. (To learn more click HERE).
Prepare to do what you can.

Love demands it.

"He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose." ~ Jim Elliot, Christian Martyr

Peace.

Break Free

Glossy Images

More and more I'm realizing that there is one huge danger that sticks out in my mind that relates to people who have been Christians a while. I have been guilty of it myself. I'm challenged by it everyday. I'll tell you what I think it is later but first I want to share a story with you.

There is this girl I know. She's the outgoing, up for anything, always wanting to make others happy type. Despite her joy she lives with a continuous sorrow. You see, the joy she has now comes from her faith in Christ but there is a life before that faith. The sorrow comes from those in her life who haven't experienced the same joy she has yet. Allow me to elaborate.

My friend grew up in a home where she knew both of her parents loved her. She also knew that her dad was an alcoholic. Because of the addiction in his life her dad was incapable of being the husband and father he needed to be. She knew of his late nights out, or nights away. She knew of his infidelities and flirtations. She knew... and what she knew hurt. She longed for him to have the faith in Christ he spoke of in church with his Sunday School class or as a deacon. She longed for him to cry out to God the way she saw her mother do it. She longed, and she prayed, and she screamed, and she cried. The message he spoke of with his mouth he knew in his mind but it had no meaning in his heart. This was all very confusing to my friend. Her dad was very harsh and critical towards other "sinners." Harshest to the ones who dealt with the sins he loathed secretly in himself. She didn't understand why he was so aggressive towards others when he was tearing her family apart with his actions. My friend dealt with huge insecurities because of this. Mostly with guys and trust. Her trust was broken again and again and again with guys in her life as she grew older. But God had plans for her. He pulled her from a life that could have ended in pain and destruction and set her on a path of genuinely knowing Him. She met the one, true God. The one her mother cried and clung to. Not the image of Him painted with empty words and fruitless actions. God now continues to place people in her life that have similar struggles. She prays that God will use her life to affect others. My friend still prays for her dad. She still cries out to God for Him. She still has a place of grieving for him. But she has hope.

My friend... is me.

The danger that we face as Christ followers is forgetting what God saved us from. We should not dwell in our pasts but we must learn from it. It is very safe to surround ourselves with people who look like us, talk like us, and act like us but that is not what Jesus did. Jesus was perfect... who would he have hung out with when he came to earth? He was purposeful in being a friend to the sinners. That bears repeating. Jesus was purposeful in being a friend to the sinners.

It is so easy to criticize others. Usually the things we criticize the most are the things we struggle with in ourselves. I do it. I violently twitch inside when someone does something around me that I know I deal with in myself. I want to remember the things Christ has accomplished in me. I need to be reminded of His grace. If I forget the grace He's shown me then how can I be willing to tell others about it? If I forget His grace then how can I extend it to others? I don't want to live a life of glossy images and rose colored scenarios. God allowed me to face the trials in my life to glorify Him. I want my life to be a real example... not a fairy tale version of whatever I make it out to be. I love when my sister says, "don't be a stoner." I don't want to throw the stones of inadequacy at someone because they sure hurt when they are thrown at me. I ask God to never let me forget grace because people's lives are too valuable. My daddy's life is too valuable.

Ephesians 2
7 -10Now God has us where he wants us, with all the time in this world and the next to shower grace and kindness upon us in Christ Jesus. Saving is all his idea, and all his work. All we do is trust him enough to let him do it. It's God's gift from start to finish! We don't play the major role. If we did, we'd probably go around bragging that we'd done the whole thing! No, we neither make nor save ourselves. God does both the making and saving. He creates each of us by Christ Jesus to join him in the work he does, the good work he has gotten ready for us to do, work we had better be doing.

Don't Call Me A Christian- Revisited

*Darrell and I met with our college home team tonight. We are going through the book "Blue Like Jazz." I read this book a while ago and it quickly became my favorite read. If you haven't read it I strongly suggest it. We discussed Chapter 11 tonight and it reminded me of my very first blog. Chapter 11 challenged my thought of "being IN the world and not of it." We must not shelter ourselves. A lot of "religious" Christians hide behind this verse by only emphasizing the part of not being of the world. We have a responsibility as Christ followers though to be very relevant IN this world. I'm reposting my first blog tonight because I'm in a constant state of feeling the things I write about in it. Those feelings hit me hard again tonight.

When I think about what it means now to be called a "Christian" I get knots in my stomach. I have no shame in lining myself up with Jesus Christ but it hurts me to align myself with those that say they represent Him and show no love to those who are different than them. I've grown up in church all my life and have seen hundreds upon thousands of Christians who know a lot but don't show a lot. I would be a liar if I said that was never me. Growing up I took a lot of pride in being a "good girl." I followed all the rules that were indoctrinated into me. Regardless of all my deeds I had a dead faith. I looked upon those who were different as messed up or corrupt. I needed Jesus to resurrect Himself in my life again. I was the so-called Christian like the church in Galatians. The one enslaved by law forgetting about my freedom in Christ. God is a God of change yet He always stays the same. The change He is doing is within me.

I have a friend of mine that just gave her life to the Lord. I'm quite emotional about it. I truly think it is the first time that God has intentionally placed me in someone's life and I layed my pride aside. God used her in my life to teach me a lesson and bless me through her newfound faith. My interactions with her and my prayers for her were not based on another notch in my evangelism belt but out of a deep need to show love again. Love that saved me from bitterness and anger. Love that saved me from mediocrity and hypocricy. That is not to say that I am not mediocre or hypocritical at times. I am... I am human, but through Christ I am made whole and perfect. He purges the impurities in my life and actually uses my weaknesses to show His strengths. If he can change a jaded Christian and turn them into a loving Christ follower, then He can truly save anyone. 99% of the time it is the "Christian" that shows the least amount of love in this world. We need change more than those we consider the greatest offenders because we represent Him... and what a poor representation of the love of God we have shown.

Let me finish by saying this. How can we say that we love God and not truly love others? I've read this so much I've memorized it. It is so engrained that I could rattle it off to the point of it having little or no meaning. Let it mean something. 1 Corinthians 13:1-7&13 "If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn't love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God's secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn't love others, I would be nothing. If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it, but if I didn't love others, I would have gained nothing. LOVE IS PATIENT AND KIND. LOVE IS NOT JEALOUS OR BOASTFUL OR PROUD OR RUDE. IT DOES DEMAND IT'S OWN WAY. IT IS NOT IRRITABLE, AND IT KEEPS NO RECORD OF BEING WRONGED. IT DOES NOT REJOICE ABOUT INJUSTICE BUT REJOICES WHENEVER THE TRUTH WINS OUT. LOVE NEVER GIVES UP, NEVER LOSES FAITH, IS ALWAYS HOPEFUL, AND ENDURES THROUGH EVERY CIRCUMSTANCE. Three things will last forever-faith, hope, and love-and the greatest of these is love."

Bye Bye to My Space

As Barry begins a new chapter in his life with Facebook... I end one of mine. I am no longer a "My Spacer." I'm exclusively a Facebook member now. I've had my account for a while and it is much easier to monitor. BTW Mexico was fun. I'll tell you more later!

A Fight for Love!

I think it's fitting to write about social issues today. In part, in honor of my friend Leigh Ann's birthday. I love Leigh Ann's raw honesty and humor, but lately I have been amazed and challenged by her heart. She is someone who I can honestly say has fought her traditional views of Christianity, God and the church - even to the point of sacrifice. She has been honest in her struggles and transparent in her questioning of the true mission of Christ. She is developing a real sense of being "others focused", and it is a beautiful transformation. Happy birthday, Leigh Ann. You challenge me and make me laugh. Thanks. You rock, and love does win. Peace.

I don't desire that my blog be a place for political commentary.

And if I were going to discuss politics, I more than likely wouldn't be in the same camp with a President from Columbia University.

But, today, I am in agreement - because after all, the Columbia President (Lee Bollinger) - who spoke before Iran's President Ahmadinejad - spoke more about freedom and the recognition of evil, than just recycling a bunch of political rhetoric.

His passionate speech was about the triumph of good over evil. It was about vigilantly holding brutal tyranny accountable for human suffering. It was about freedom and truth.

These are to be the ideals of the church, but one rarely hears these things from the evangelical pulpit. Why?

Why do we seem afraid to have discourse about issues of social justice? Is it not in the heart of God to "plead the case of the oppressed"? Are we terrified of being labeled "liberal" or worse?

It's a difficult path for the Christ-follower to travel. To marry an evangelical passion for each person's soul and eternity with a passion to meet the practical and social needs of the down-trodden. It is difficult, but following Christ demands that we try, even to the point of sacrifice.

Are we too afraid of labels or misunderstanding to be proactive...or just too lazy?

This speech today, from someone with whom I would most likely be on the polar opposite end of the political spectrum, reminded me of the things going on around the world that I am likely to forget in my comfortable, suburban, American existence. It reminded me of what the absence of love...of God can cause.

So, how do we fight brutality and evil - with love. And love demands action. The action of love is powerful, but it should be because it is of God. God is love, and if we are about the things of God, then we are about love.

Love hears, sees and demands action, and the best part is...LOVE WINS.

But, we do have to get in the game.

Peace.

Birthday Girls

The last two days have been birthdays of two very special people in my life. The first is my sister, Larissa. She celebrated her birthday yesterday. Larissa is not only my sister, but a great friend. I can remember when we were younger always wanting to be around her, dress like her, and act like her. (Looking back, I know I was NEVER as cool as her!) She is five years older and didn't think it was so cool to have a little sister who was always around. That is, until she moved out of the house and went away to college.

That is when our friendship truly developed. I loved when she would come home from college and WANT to hang out with me! We'd go shopping and stay up talking. Imagine how thrilled I was when my BIG sister asked me to move in with her my freshman year of college! We only lived together for one year (she got married!) but it was a great year for us. Over the years, we have remained very close friends. We are privileged to live in the same town and see each other often. Even though our lives our very busy with kids and crazy schedules, we make time to hang out with each other and talk often.

The second birthday girl is one of my closest and oldest (not in years, but in length of time I've known her!) friends, Leigh Ann. Leigh Ann and I have been friends for almost 20 years! We grew up in the youth group together, were roommates in college, got married the same year, and have children around the same ages. We have been with each other through the good and the not-so-good. Leigh Ann is someone I can always count on to make me laugh. She's one of those people who actually says what everyone in the room is thinking, and doesn't apologize for it! That is one of the things I love about her...she's always herself. What you see is what you get!

I love you both, Larissa and Leigh Ann! Happy, Happy Birthday!

Viva la Mexico

Darrell and I are leaving tomorrow morning for our first cruise ever. We are heading to Mexico for four days. I'm really looking forward to some time away with my hot hubby. We'll miss everyone on Sunday but we are already anticipating what God is going to do. We love you all and we'll see you next week. Viva la Mexico!

The Full Circle Friendship

I have an uncanny ability to pick up right where I left off. It's really weird actually. When I am holding a conversation with someone and the subject moves on to something different I can get back to the original conversation like nothing happened in between. I just like the idea of completing the thought process. I picked up where I left off in another way this week.

A couple of years ago I worked at Saks Fifth Avenue. I had a friend there that I instantly bonded with. She was artistic, crazy, quirky, fun, energetic, and very comfortable in her own skin. She was also a pale skinned tanorexic, dark haired chica like myself. We just got each other. The last day I ever saw her was August 9, 2003, the day I got married. That same week while Darrell and I went on our honeymoon she moved to Indiana. We stayed in touch for a while but we eventually lost touch. I have always had her on my heart and secretly hoped she'd reappear. This week we have officially picked up where we left off. She called me a couple of weeks ago to tell me that she went through a very difficult period in her life and needed to move back to Orlando. She was wondering if I could help her get a job quickly. I was more than happy to grant her that favor. She officially started working with me this week and my boss asked me to train her so we've been able to spend a lot of time together. I feel like she never left. We were laughing today about some of the memories we have together and she confirmed my feeling as well. She said to me, "laughing about that makes me feel like I never left." I love that. In that moment it was as if August 2003 just picked up again in September 2007 with no lapse in between. This blesses me beyond words.

If this type of full circle friendship can continue with us imagine what God is capable of. I've had lapses in my life when my relationship and friendship with Him has not been maintained. I missed my time connecting with Him. I felt guilty for not reading my bible like I should or talking to Him regularly. I now realize that He is waiting in anticipation for me to contribute to our relationship again during those times. I think God just wants to hang out with me. He wants to be the friend that sticks closer than a brother to me. He wants to do life with me. I'm so amazed that He wants to know me through everything. The joys, the sorrows, the ups, the downs. He is my rock and my salvation. He is the ultimate friend and I'm so glad I can live in the assurance that He will never leave me. He waits for me. Be encouraged that He waits for you to. If you've had a season of wondering He anticipates picking up where you left off. God is love.

The Day the World Changed

It is unbelievable to me that it has been six years since the tragedy of 9/11. It is one of those days that is imprinted on my heart and mind for life. I remember exactly where I was when I found out about the first World Trade Center being attacked. In my safe, naive, American world I knew it had to have been an accident... and then the other building... gone. My image that I had held onto my whole life of a secure, idealistic, United States changed in an instant. I never knew of such hate before. I had lived almost a quarter of a century on that day and I had never once thought about terrorism. HUGE reality check. This was a pure moment. A moment where I truly had to think about others before myself. I always thought I was socially aware and conscious of others but we live in a nation of privilege and security. Our security had been threatened and there was a loss and grief beyond the comprehension of words or feelings... so what happened next?

The thing that compels me most when I remember the circumstances surrounding 9/11 is the unity and LOVE that brought all of us together. In an instant we all came together as Americans and just loved one another. As I watched the continuing coverage on the news I grieved with those who lost loved ones, I prayed for the heroes and leaders in charge, I loved and I watched everyone else love. I saw every backgroud come together and lift each other up. We embraced those we never knew. We cried alongside of our neighbor. We all felt the need for each other... no life was taken for granted. I sometimes wonder when the switch flipped back again. When did life just casually slip back to the way it used to be? When did we all start taking life and love for granted again? I am just as guilty of taking these things for granted but I pray that the lessons of 9/11 will remain with me forever. I grieve for the loss of the husband, wives, mothers, sisters, brothers. I pray for our leaders and civic heroes. I just want to love. After all it is only love that will overpower the hate. Love like you mean it and never forget!

What I'm Listening To

"The Adventure" by Angels and Airwaves

Friday was great because...

1. I got to surprise Emma at school for lunch. (Which, by the way, should probably be called breakfast because her class eats from 10:03-10:28.) She was pleasantly surprised to see me and I had fun meeting all of her new friends.

2. I got a massage at this place. I highly recommend it. I've only had a couple of massages in my life, but I could get used to this! Some good friends gave me a gift certificate on my birthday last year and I just got around to using it (10 months later!)

3. I got a hair cut, which, in and of itself is not all that exciting, but I absolutely love when I get my hair shampooed and blow-dried by someone else. Anyone who knows me well knows how much I hate blow-drying my hair.

4. When I got home from being "pampered" all of the laundry was done and the house was clean! I have the best husband! (He hasn't been feeling very well and he STILL took the time to do a little housework because he knows how much that means to me!)

5. We had grilled pizza for dinner. That's right...we grilled the pizza dough and each put our own toppings on. Mine had mozarella cheese, red onions, yellow peppers, mushrooms and sundried tomatoes. Yumm-o!

6. My niece should be born any minute now in California. My twin brother is going to be a dad for the first time. I wish I could be there with them. My sister-in-law was induced at 7am and we are anxiously awaiting a phone call. We've been in touch all day and everything is progressing well, just slowly!

UPDATE: (10:14pm) Kylie Reese (my niece) was born at 5:26 (CA time) this evening. She weighed in at 7lbs, 13oz., 19 1/2 inches long. Mommy and baby are doing great. I can't wait to meet you, Kylie!

I hope your Friday was great! Have a fun weekend.

Welcome Back, Sandi!

Welcome back home, Sandi. We missed you so much - and we are so glad that you got to spend some quality time with your dad. Please know that we will all continue to pray for you, your dad, and the family.

Your blogging public has missed you terribly, as well.
Know that you are in our hearts and prayers...WELCOME HOME!

LuvYa, Angie.

Mi Familia Loca

I had the privilege of spending the day with my crazy Colombian family. Darrell and I went over to my uncle's house for a Labor Day barbecue and we had a great time. Let me take you there.
Setting: My uncle and aunt's house with a newly broken A/C. We hung out in their new sun porch though. It overlooks the lake in their backyard so it was breezy and beautiful.
In Attendance: Five out of six of my mother's siblings, their spouses, and children. Darrell, myself, my mother-in-law, my sisters Brittney and Cassie, Brittney's boyfriend Eric, my nephew Hayden, my grandmother and some friends of my aunt and uncle with their child as well, and a partridge in a pear tree.
Food: Hamburgers, hot dogs, ribs, and veggie burgers (I have a large vegan/vegetarian population within my family... they are converting more and more by each passing year.) We also had salad and baked beans... oh, and cake. Typical barbecue dining.
Ambiance: A lot of joking around and cutting up. Football was discussed on more than one occasion and there were many cuts made on other's teams. I caught up with my cousin Aislinn, who is a senior in high school. I had to get the dish on what's been going down in her life. It's all good. We danced to really, really, really loud salsa, merengue, and pop music. (This is always my favorite part of any family gathering. I love to dance and I love that everyone in my family loves to dance because they all do it so well... I get it from my mama!)
I love my fun family and the time I get to spend with them. It seems like we only get together with my extended family on the major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter. I'm thankful for the bonus family day today!

All things work together....

I had a bad day yesterday. It seemed that everything that could go wrong did. It started the night before. I drank a mountain dew which is the root of all evil. If I drink one of those I'm doomed when it's time for me to sleep. So, needless to say, the last time I remember looking at the clock it was 3:00 am. Due to my lack of sleep I started feeling really sick. I came home from work and crashed the second I hit my bed. There was a bunch of junk that happened while I was working to enhance my crappy mood. I was trying to pull myself together so I wouldn't effect anyone else with my irritations. Nothing major happened to put me in a funk but a bunch of little things were getting under my skin. Then I started thinking...

Romans 8:26-28:

26 And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. 27 And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers[a] in harmony with God’s own will. 28 And we know that God causes everything to work together[b] for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.

I started thinking about all the times in my life when MAJOR disappointments had happened and how God miraculously made the circumstances benefit my life and growth in it. If He can do it with the big things He can certainly turn my bad day full of little annoying circumstances around to something good. I love that verse 28 says "everything" ... even the little things will work out. God has my bad day under control.

Hey Rap Girl

Hey Andrea, I love that you're a rap girl! I so enjoyed watching you sing and dance with the kids in Powerhouse yesterday. I know all the kids are so happy you're back grooving with them again too. You do such an awesome job in there and it is so obvious that you absolutely love it...that's what makes you so perfect for the part. Thanks for also sharing your cooking talent with us last week too...we totally enjoyed our "Tour of Italy" at the Lopers. So, do you rap while you cook?

C3... un.orthodox!

Okay, okay... so I'm the rap girl. I love all music but hip hop is just soooooooo cool! Darrell and I visited Crossover Church in Tampa a few weeks ago. This is the pastor. He goes by the name Urban D. and this video describes C3 Church culture as well. His vision is to be un.orthodox in reaching the community around him for Christ. I'm so grateful that Pastor Byron is seeking God first and prays for un.orthodox methods to reach the lost. I've included some of the lyrics at the end of the song that I think fits C3 perfectly!

Urban D. "Un.orthodox" Music Video

Add to My Profile | More Videos

Vs. 3 On my journey’s people ask my occupation I tell em’ I’m a pastor and an artist – there’s amazement True engagement / Sometimes I wish I could take they look and frame it They can’t picture a cat that’s braided Cuz the old school presentation got em’ jaded But so many people waited (For a ministry out the box) With no cultural locks (C3 Church) – unorthodox Dreadlocks fades and fitted’s A multi-cultural faith community that’s committed To the great commandment and the great commission We orthodox in our beliefs, but not in our fishin’ We into Biblical context and not tradition Cuz we’re more concerned about your heart’s condition (We got a passion from God) – so we’re Purpose Driven We look just like you – but we found what’s missin’

This is my shout out to my family at C3! Let's be un.orthodox!