Monday, December 29, 2008
Give Me Glitter!
What are you usually doing at 1 a.m.? There were no sugarplum fairies dancing in my head this particular night. I tossed and turned and finally got up to do something crafty. I bought these reindeer for $1 a piece at a yard sale, and I knew they had a fabulous side screaming to be seen. Add some glue and glitter and they took on a whole new attitude! (And I was finally tired enough to fall asleep.) Mission accomplished.
Off the Grid
I haven't so much as looked at a blog in 2 weeks! How am I still alive? (Prior to this hiatus Jeff told me if I were a country singer my name would be "Kenny Bloggins.") With the holidays in full swing, I found myself quite busy. It's time for some power blogging! Now begins my Reader's Digest version of the Hunt Happenin's. Starting with...
{December 7th}
We all bundled up and went to see the temple lights. Grace was amazed! It has been so fun to see her enjoy all of the wonderment of Christmas for the first time.
Beanie Babies
Grace contimplates the birth of the Christ child.
Our Temple
My Loves
This is how Grace likes to ride around.
{December 7th}
We all bundled up and went to see the temple lights. Grace was amazed! It has been so fun to see her enjoy all of the wonderment of Christmas for the first time.
Beanie Babies
Grace contimplates the birth of the Christ child.
Our Temple
My Loves
This is how Grace likes to ride around.Saturday, December 13, 2008
"Walk" Day 12 Thoughts
"But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you." -3Nephi 13:33
Priorities. Everyone has them. It's the order that is crucial. In theory I could place them in order of importance, but in practice...not so much. Often times I find myself out of balance.
I am always excited during this time of year. Not just for Christmas, but also for the coming of the new year. For me it is a great time for introspection. I evaluate the year that has just wrapped up...what worked for me and what could be changed. I feel an added measure of the Spirit in setting goals and making plans. I take the opportunity to counsel with the Lord to realign my path and start that leg of the journey fresh and optimistic. I am grateful for the above scripture because it helps to set the tone for prioritizing my life. Sure, as the year progresses the need for tweaks and adjustments arrise, but at least I know what should always come first.
Priorities. Everyone has them. It's the order that is crucial. In theory I could place them in order of importance, but in practice...not so much. Often times I find myself out of balance.
I am always excited during this time of year. Not just for Christmas, but also for the coming of the new year. For me it is a great time for introspection. I evaluate the year that has just wrapped up...what worked for me and what could be changed. I feel an added measure of the Spirit in setting goals and making plans. I take the opportunity to counsel with the Lord to realign my path and start that leg of the journey fresh and optimistic. I am grateful for the above scripture because it helps to set the tone for prioritizing my life. Sure, as the year progresses the need for tweaks and adjustments arrise, but at least I know what should always come first.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
"Walk" Day 11 Thoughts
My thought are these...the Holy Spirit ROCKS and I am lucky to occasionally feel a portion of it's influence. When things are going well and I am doing as I should, I think I must be crazy to ever let myself become past feeling. When I have allowed all the noise to drown out the still small voice, I guess mild amnesia sets in. I forget what a comfort and guide the Holy Spirit is. What a privilege it is to have the opportunity to have the HS as a constant companion. I must do better to be worthy of that blessing at all times. It's not like I don't know all of this...it's nice to have the reminder.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
"Walk" Day 10 Thoughts
My little sister came home from kindergarten one afternoon with a huge frown on her face. My mother inquired about her glum state and Alexis replied, "Mom, I have a 'bad attitude!' My butt's been itchin' all day and it gave me a bad attitude!"
I mention this story because service has a lot to do with attitude. It doesn't do you any good to do something for someone with a bad attitude...you forfeit the blessings. ("For behold, if a man being evil giveth a gift, he doeth it grudgingly; wherefore it is counted unto him the same as if he had retained the gift; wherefore he is counted evil before God." - Moroni 7:8) Elder Dallin H. Oaks gives a great talk on the reasons for service.
Today I went to work with Jeff to help do deliveries. I'll be the first to admit, my attitude could have been a lot better. Jeff totally called me on it. He warned, "you're gonna lose the blessings if you keep on like this." To that I replied, "I'm just in a bad mood, okay? I'm PMSing and I hate doing deliveries and that's alright! I do them because it's worth the money."
Well, well, well...Look who who just lost her blessings! Jeff just chuckled and we both had a good laugh at my expense. My hubby has a way with me. He turned my hostile mood right around. They say, "all's well that ends well." In this case it was certainly true. Jeff reminded me that I was not just working to earn extra money, but also to help and spend some time with him. I am one lucky girl. I could endure anything, as long as I have Jeff by my side...even deliveries. Look who was blessed after all!
I mention this story because service has a lot to do with attitude. It doesn't do you any good to do something for someone with a bad attitude...you forfeit the blessings. ("For behold, if a man being evil giveth a gift, he doeth it grudgingly; wherefore it is counted unto him the same as if he had retained the gift; wherefore he is counted evil before God." - Moroni 7:8) Elder Dallin H. Oaks gives a great talk on the reasons for service.
Today I went to work with Jeff to help do deliveries. I'll be the first to admit, my attitude could have been a lot better. Jeff totally called me on it. He warned, "you're gonna lose the blessings if you keep on like this." To that I replied, "I'm just in a bad mood, okay? I'm PMSing and I hate doing deliveries and that's alright! I do them because it's worth the money."
Well, well, well...Look who who just lost her blessings! Jeff just chuckled and we both had a good laugh at my expense. My hubby has a way with me. He turned my hostile mood right around. They say, "all's well that ends well." In this case it was certainly true. Jeff reminded me that I was not just working to earn extra money, but also to help and spend some time with him. I am one lucky girl. I could endure anything, as long as I have Jeff by my side...even deliveries. Look who was blessed after all!
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
"Walk" Day 9 Thoughts
When I set out to begin this "Walk" activity one of my chief goals was to have an added measure of the Spirit in my life. I am so glad to report that the Lord has blessed me in that regard. I feel a softness in my heart where there had been resistance. Spirituality is truly like a muscle. If not used it begins to atrophy and weaken. If not worked and fed properly damage occurs. Luckily, with even just a little TLC it can get to working again. The key is consistency. The best results are had when spirituality is treated like a marathon and not a sprint.
"Is the Lord my light?" His life gives me a perfect, shining example. His gospel leads and directs me. His word is the iron rod that I must hold on to. His atonement puts me back on the right path. He is my guardian and I am his follower.
"Is the Lord my light?" His life gives me a perfect, shining example. His gospel leads and directs me. His word is the iron rod that I must hold on to. His atonement puts me back on the right path. He is my guardian and I am his follower.
"Walk" Day 8 Thoughts
No one is immune to exhibiting some form of pride. That's why it referred to as "the Great Stumbling Block." (That and medium size rocks, Jeff says.) It is the "go to" sin for Satan. He's not going to tempt most of us with drinking, doing drugs, or murder. We wouldn't fall for that! His plan is much more subtle: get us to find fault with those around us, compare everyone and everything, refuse to compliment someone, get jealous when someone else enjoys success...the list goes on and on.
The BEST talk I have ever read on the subject of pride was given by President Benson. I refer back to this talk whenever I feel like my pride has gotten a little out of hand. My head instantly is deflated and my heart aches for my sinful state. The plainness and truthfulness of his words cannot be denied. It leads me to humility and the desire to seek forgiveness.
I especially appreciate the advice found in Alma 32:16 concerning humility. (the antidote of pride) "Therefore, blessed are they who humble themselves without being compelled to be humble..." I use it more as a warning. "Mindy, you better repent and become humble OR I'll give you something to be humble about!"
I am just so grateful for the gospel and the instructions we have been given to guide us throughout life. I am grateful to be a part of a church that is lead by modern revelation. What a blessing it is to have "watchmen" in the tower of this world who look out for us and warn us of danger. It never ceases to amaze me how perfect the Lord's plan is.
The BEST talk I have ever read on the subject of pride was given by President Benson. I refer back to this talk whenever I feel like my pride has gotten a little out of hand. My head instantly is deflated and my heart aches for my sinful state. The plainness and truthfulness of his words cannot be denied. It leads me to humility and the desire to seek forgiveness.
I especially appreciate the advice found in Alma 32:16 concerning humility. (the antidote of pride) "Therefore, blessed are they who humble themselves without being compelled to be humble..." I use it more as a warning. "Mindy, you better repent and become humble OR I'll give you something to be humble about!"
I am just so grateful for the gospel and the instructions we have been given to guide us throughout life. I am grateful to be a part of a church that is lead by modern revelation. What a blessing it is to have "watchmen" in the tower of this world who look out for us and warn us of danger. It never ceases to amaze me how perfect the Lord's plan is.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
"Walk" Day 7 Thoughts
Sometimes I think I have a faulty filter in my head. You know, the one that keeps certain thoughts in instead of slipping out. I must get that from my mom.
I have sat here staring at my screen for what seems like forever and I really don't know what more to add to this post. This is one of those areas that I always have to be vigilant in. Thankfully for me, I have very forgiving friends and family!
I have sat here staring at my screen for what seems like forever and I really don't know what more to add to this post. This is one of those areas that I always have to be vigilant in. Thankfully for me, I have very forgiving friends and family!
Saturday, December 6, 2008
"Walk" Day 6 Thoughts
I know thoughts have power. The most significant proof I have of this is my conversion story. This story has so many details, so many examples of thought in action, but I am going to choose the most critical instance.
It was the beginning 2001, and like most people do I set about making goals for the year. What was different about these resolutions was the way I went about making them. Each night I would thank God in advance for the blessings I had in mind. My list was this: a new job that would give me financial breathing room, a car that was dependable, to meet and get to know my extended relatives, to get braces and to find peace and happiness. The key was to have total faith that these things would come about in the right way and time. It wasn't a matter of if, only when. I never expected my prayers to be answered so quickly.
Just before Valentine's Day I met a nice returned missionary. Two weeks later I became very sick. I called my Mom and told her how terrible I was feeling (she's a nurse) and she told me I needed to see a doctor. Not having insurance was an issue, so she called her uncle for a favor. (I need to share a little background here. Her uncle Charles is a doctor. He is the brother of her father, with whom there are some MAJOR ill feelings. It had been years since she had spoken to Charles, but a mother will go to extraordinary lengths for her sick child.) I went to his office where I was greeted by him, his wife, and children all of whom work there. It turned out that I actually had scarlet fever. (I know what you're thinking...who gets scarlet fever this day and age?) Upon chatting with my newly found family the subject of my employment came up. My cousin offered me a job right then and there. I was to get well and come back in to start work at a huge pay raise! New job...check! Getting to know my relatives...check! An unexpected bonus...I was falling in love.
A month later my car, Tootie, finally died. My family (the ones I was working for) offered to pay the down payment on a new car, and I would repay them with a deduction from my wages. It was only the beginning of April and I had 4 of my 5 goals reached. I thought I couldn't be happier. Surprisingly, I was wrong.
The GREATEST blessing of that year, and of my entire life, took place in August...when I became a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I had not asked for this specifically, but in a way I had asked for it. After all, one of my goals was to find peace and happiness.
The only thing that didn't happen that year was getting braces. Don't fret, today I wear Invisalign. The blessings of 2001 can be traced back to the power of thought, and of course, the "Man Upstairs."
It was the beginning 2001, and like most people do I set about making goals for the year. What was different about these resolutions was the way I went about making them. Each night I would thank God in advance for the blessings I had in mind. My list was this: a new job that would give me financial breathing room, a car that was dependable, to meet and get to know my extended relatives, to get braces and to find peace and happiness. The key was to have total faith that these things would come about in the right way and time. It wasn't a matter of if, only when. I never expected my prayers to be answered so quickly.
Just before Valentine's Day I met a nice returned missionary. Two weeks later I became very sick. I called my Mom and told her how terrible I was feeling (she's a nurse) and she told me I needed to see a doctor. Not having insurance was an issue, so she called her uncle for a favor. (I need to share a little background here. Her uncle Charles is a doctor. He is the brother of her father, with whom there are some MAJOR ill feelings. It had been years since she had spoken to Charles, but a mother will go to extraordinary lengths for her sick child.) I went to his office where I was greeted by him, his wife, and children all of whom work there. It turned out that I actually had scarlet fever. (I know what you're thinking...who gets scarlet fever this day and age?) Upon chatting with my newly found family the subject of my employment came up. My cousin offered me a job right then and there. I was to get well and come back in to start work at a huge pay raise! New job...check! Getting to know my relatives...check! An unexpected bonus...I was falling in love.
A month later my car, Tootie, finally died. My family (the ones I was working for) offered to pay the down payment on a new car, and I would repay them with a deduction from my wages. It was only the beginning of April and I had 4 of my 5 goals reached. I thought I couldn't be happier. Surprisingly, I was wrong.
The GREATEST blessing of that year, and of my entire life, took place in August...when I became a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I had not asked for this specifically, but in a way I had asked for it. After all, one of my goals was to find peace and happiness.
The only thing that didn't happen that year was getting braces. Don't fret, today I wear Invisalign. The blessings of 2001 can be traced back to the power of thought, and of course, the "Man Upstairs."
The Gift of Christmas Past
I was rummaging through old pictures (on a quest to see if Grace and I look alike at her age) and I came across these BEAUTIES!
I blieve I was 5 years old here. I totally remember helping to pick out the tree and stringing the popcorn garland each Christmas. Sadly, some of the popcorn made it to my belly and not "The Bid Show." Good times. I am lovin' the dress and belt!
Same year as before, WAY worse outfit! It apears that I have a sweatshirt over a bathing suit?? Why would I sport a swim suit in the winter? Silly kid! I love how this picture is all about me...William who?? (My mom's best friend's son.) I wish my legs still looked that thin. BLARG!
What the heck Mom? My little cousin (in the next picture) and I were thrilled to get life size dolls. Her doll was beautiful and blond (just like her)......mine......WELL.... Is that the best she could do? (I am totally kidding Mom.) All that matters is that I LOVED it.
Age: 7 Aunt Lisa, Kelly, Mom, and I at Mamaw's.
Age: 8 (Florida) Who didn't love puffy paint?
I blieve I was 5 years old here. I totally remember helping to pick out the tree and stringing the popcorn garland each Christmas. Sadly, some of the popcorn made it to my belly and not "The Bid Show." Good times. I am lovin' the dress and belt!
Same year as before, WAY worse outfit! It apears that I have a sweatshirt over a bathing suit?? Why would I sport a swim suit in the winter? Silly kid! I love how this picture is all about me...William who?? (My mom's best friend's son.) I wish my legs still looked that thin. BLARG!
What the heck Mom? My little cousin (in the next picture) and I were thrilled to get life size dolls. Her doll was beautiful and blond (just like her)......mine......WELL.... Is that the best she could do? (I am totally kidding Mom.) All that matters is that I LOVED it.
Age: 7 Aunt Lisa, Kelly, Mom, and I at Mamaw's.
Age: 8 (Florida) Who didn't love puffy paint?
"Walk" Day 5 Thoughts
Am I a light to the world? I don't know, what do you think? I try to be. I sure hope I am, but sometimes I am an example of what not to do.
My example is really manifest in sweet Gracie. She is such a little copycat. I am so proud of her when we are saying prayers and I peak to see her with her arms folded. My heart melts when she repeats, "amen." I love that she recognizes any picture of "Sesus." It tickles me to hear her say, "Hemimee Fodder." She surprises me with her manners...always quick to say, "sorry, please, thank you, and welcome." (She is way into "thank you" and says it all the time. When she gives me a smooch and says it, I repeat "thank YOU! Then we giggle...) Those are a few of my good teachings.
On occasion I have slipped a naughty word and heard it echoed. Dang it! I really have to do better about that.
Being a righteous example takes effort. It takes introspection. Choosing the right isn't always easy, but it is always worth it.
My example is really manifest in sweet Gracie. She is such a little copycat. I am so proud of her when we are saying prayers and I peak to see her with her arms folded. My heart melts when she repeats, "amen." I love that she recognizes any picture of "Sesus." It tickles me to hear her say, "Hemimee Fodder." She surprises me with her manners...always quick to say, "sorry, please, thank you, and welcome." (She is way into "thank you" and says it all the time. When she gives me a smooch and says it, I repeat "thank YOU! Then we giggle...) Those are a few of my good teachings.
On occasion I have slipped a naughty word and heard it echoed. Dang it! I really have to do better about that.
Being a righteous example takes effort. It takes introspection. Choosing the right isn't always easy, but it is always worth it.
Friday, December 5, 2008
"Walk" Day 4 Thoughts (and Day 3-Part 2)
Boy am I glad that Heavenly Father will be our judge. We are just not cut out for that type of authority, yet. In my limited mind I sometimes judge forgiveness relative to the amount of suffering I endure. My sin was X grievous, so now I must feel Y amount of guilt in order to equal repentance. Why do I put myself through that? As if the sin isn't heavy enough, why not add a ton of guilt? Satan is a very crafty guy. He has made an art form out of tempting into sin (often in such a subtle way that we believe they are our own thoughts) and once he has tricked us....bring on the wallowing! Even when we wise up and feel like asking for help and forgiveness, he interjects and tells us things like: "What's the use...you'll do it again. You can handle this on your own. Changing this will be too hard. It's harmless, not that big of a deal as far as wrong goes." Yada, yada, yada...you get the point.
Jeff taught me something I'll never forget. I had been feeling really overwhelmed by everything... felt like I had accumulated so much sin (mostly of the omission variety) that to turn around and dig my way out of the whole seemed impossible. I felt like to find any relief there would be strings attached. I would have to do SO many good things before I could begin to feel better. That would take FOREVER! He showed me a verse in Alma that gave me comfort and hope.
"Yea, I would that ye would come forth and harden not your hearts any longer; for behold, now is the time and the day of your salvation; and therefore, if ye will repent and harden not your hearts, immediately shall the great plan of redemption be brought about unto you." -Alma 34:31
Are you kidding me? Are you sure I don't have to suffer and feel guilty until I am old and grey?
Heavenly Father loves us. Christ atoned for our sins because He loves us. He felt every painful feeling we have ever endured. He knows how we feel. We are not alone. (And he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind; and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people...and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities. - Alma 7:11-12)
So, "do [I] understand what Christ did for me? Do I comprehend the great love He has for me?" The answer is yes and no. Yes, I know what He did for me and that he loves me. No, I cannot pretend to comprehend the complexity or depth of it all. I hope to one day. For now, it feels good to simply know that I am loved.
Jeff taught me something I'll never forget. I had been feeling really overwhelmed by everything... felt like I had accumulated so much sin (mostly of the omission variety) that to turn around and dig my way out of the whole seemed impossible. I felt like to find any relief there would be strings attached. I would have to do SO many good things before I could begin to feel better. That would take FOREVER! He showed me a verse in Alma that gave me comfort and hope.
"Yea, I would that ye would come forth and harden not your hearts any longer; for behold, now is the time and the day of your salvation; and therefore, if ye will repent and harden not your hearts, immediately shall the great plan of redemption be brought about unto you." -Alma 34:31
Are you kidding me? Are you sure I don't have to suffer and feel guilty until I am old and grey?
Heavenly Father loves us. Christ atoned for our sins because He loves us. He felt every painful feeling we have ever endured. He knows how we feel. We are not alone. (And he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind; and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people...and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities. - Alma 7:11-12)
So, "do [I] understand what Christ did for me? Do I comprehend the great love He has for me?" The answer is yes and no. Yes, I know what He did for me and that he loves me. No, I cannot pretend to comprehend the complexity or depth of it all. I hope to one day. For now, it feels good to simply know that I am loved.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Deck the Halls
With all of my posts being about the "Walk" challenge, I figured the blog could do with some pictures. I have most of the decorating done around here, and for the first time we included the outside. I am really pleased with the outcome considering the budget. Everything was either bought on clearance or at a yard sale. It's fun to see all of the items I have gathered throughout the year make an appearance. I experienced a form of Christmas when I was pulling everything out...so many things I had forgotten about. (Did anyone else noticed that rhymed?) Enough babble, on with the show...
Some of the details of Grace's tree. I LOVE it!
A bird's eye view.
The canopy.
As you can see, tinsel everywhere. What a festive sparkle it brings!
The tree. In 4 years I still haven't found the right topper!
Entry table. I love the picture of baby Jesus.
Plaid wrapping paper adds drama behind my pottery collection.
The little t.v. cabinet.
Wrapping a picture is a nice festive touch.
Your family could be seen here. PLEASE send me your Christmas cards!
The view of the tree from the window.
Welcome
Home Sweet Home
Some of the details of Grace's tree. I LOVE it!
A bird's eye view.
The canopy.
As you can see, tinsel everywhere. What a festive sparkle it brings!
The tree. In 4 years I still haven't found the right topper!
Entry table. I love the picture of baby Jesus.
Plaid wrapping paper adds drama behind my pottery collection.
The little t.v. cabinet.
Wrapping a picture is a nice festive touch.
Your family could be seen here. PLEASE send me your Christmas cards!
The view of the tree from the window.
Welcome
Home Sweet Home
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
"Walk" Day 3 - Part 1
I need to repent. I made poor choices today and instead of using the time when Grace was napping to study, I became enthralled in the On Demand function of our cable. This is a relatively new service offered and Jeff and I have hit the mother load. Today was just one of those days when I didn't want to do much of ANYTHING. I should have stopped and evaluated the "good, better, and best" choices of how to spend my time. I did however put together the craft we did for Young Women tonight...that's gotta count for somethin'? I'll ask for forgiveness and tomorrow I'll do better!
Let's Get Crafty
I know we are in the final countdown days 'til Christmas, but here are some cool links to great ideas for handmade gifts or decorations. I will continue to add to the list as I come across stuff. My hope is to have easy access to an ongoing list of neat crafts and finds. I'm sure I'll figure out the best way to do this. Until then, enjoy this taste of what's to come!
- A really cool button bracelet
- free gift tags and other cool stuff
- Cool twist in advent calendars here and here
- cute christmas activity list
- Awesome garland
- Glittery birds
- An idea on decorating Grace's stocking
- Felted flower ornament
- Paper flower
- 3 cool patterns (including tie on slippers)
- Custom journals
- yarn filled ornaments
- gift card box
- Spool dollies and homes
- Flower shirt applique
- Good Reads
- Sweet Tee
- Wrislet
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
"Walk" Day 2 Thoughts
Perhaps I have missed the point of today's topic. (Am I Abiding in Christ?). The direction my thoughts have taken center upon friendship. In all fairness, the idea did stem from my scripture reading. (Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. -John 15:13-14)
I can vividly remember the time in which my friendship with God began. The circumstances were these: I was 18 years old. It had been six months since I graduated from high school. I had just finished my first semester at the local community college. It was nearly midnight when I hopped into my beat up '88 Nissan Sentra, affectionately known as "Tootie." The car was so completely stuffed with my belongings that I barely had room to put it into "drive." I had just worked my last shift at Bath & Body Works, having quit my other job earlier that day as well. I was about to embark on a whole new life... I was moving an hour and a half away to the Big city of Lexington, Kentucky. (Now is when you would note the sarcasm in my voice.)
I had so many thoughts running through my mind. Was I making the right decision? Could I afford all the expenses while working some lame job and going to school? Had I chosen the right group of friends? The questions seemed endless. I played the song Wide Open Spaces by the Dixie Chicks over and over while singing to the top of my lungs. I was taking a risk, making a change, and I felt so excited and nervous at the same time. One minute I would laugh to myself and the next I was crying. Think goodness it was dark outside. If someone from another car had seen me they would've thought I was crazy.
Once I had made it to the long stretch of rode that took me straight into the city, the thought occurred to me to start saying a prayer. I pictured in my mind that God was riding shotgun and I was going to pour my heart out to Him. I just spoke out loud all of the things I was feeling, thinking, hoping, and needing. I knew He was listening and really cared about me. It is kind of embarrassing to admit this, but at one point my hand even felt warm...like He was holding it to give me comfort and reassurance. Sometimes I would look over just to make sure I wasn't dreaming and about to wreck. (Sure enough, my garbage bag full of clothes was still there.) I don't remember how the prayer/conversation ended, (I had probably just ran out of things to say) but I do know that I felt on overwhelming sense of peace and happiness. (At this point I began crying again...tears of joy this time.) I knew that God loved me and He was leading me to a new life.
Those first few years in Lexington weren't exactly perfect. Along the way, one decision led to another...and then another...until one day I was presented the opportunity to accept the gospel of Jesus Christ,to be baptized and to become a member of His Church. I was taught that my life had a purpose. There was a Plan of Happiness created and I am a child of God. I felt in the deepest part of my being that throughout my life, God had been watching over me, leading me along the path that would finally bring me to true happiness. (This is exactly why Proverbs 3:5-6 is my mantra!) He is my Father, Jesus is my Savior, and both are my very dearest friends.
If I were being honest with myself today, I would have to say that I could do a whole lot better with my side of the friendship. (Wait, maybe this is the point of today's topic...to evaluate what I am doing, or not doing in the relationship.) Still, I am so thankful that They are the best kind of friends...the ones that are always there for you. God never tires of hearing from me. In fact, He might even wish He heard from me more often and with more sincerity. He is always there to help. He knows precisely what I need. He forgives me over and over. He loves me perfectly.
*************************************************************************************
While I am on the subject, I find it coincidental that one of my BESTEST earthly friends made a post on her blog about me and our friendship. Charmaine, you are too kind! I love you to pieces! Thank you for being YOU...and all of the wonderfullness that encompasses!
I can vividly remember the time in which my friendship with God began. The circumstances were these: I was 18 years old. It had been six months since I graduated from high school. I had just finished my first semester at the local community college. It was nearly midnight when I hopped into my beat up '88 Nissan Sentra, affectionately known as "Tootie." The car was so completely stuffed with my belongings that I barely had room to put it into "drive." I had just worked my last shift at Bath & Body Works, having quit my other job earlier that day as well. I was about to embark on a whole new life... I was moving an hour and a half away to the Big city of Lexington, Kentucky. (Now is when you would note the sarcasm in my voice.)
I had so many thoughts running through my mind. Was I making the right decision? Could I afford all the expenses while working some lame job and going to school? Had I chosen the right group of friends? The questions seemed endless. I played the song Wide Open Spaces by the Dixie Chicks over and over while singing to the top of my lungs. I was taking a risk, making a change, and I felt so excited and nervous at the same time. One minute I would laugh to myself and the next I was crying. Think goodness it was dark outside. If someone from another car had seen me they would've thought I was crazy.
Once I had made it to the long stretch of rode that took me straight into the city, the thought occurred to me to start saying a prayer. I pictured in my mind that God was riding shotgun and I was going to pour my heart out to Him. I just spoke out loud all of the things I was feeling, thinking, hoping, and needing. I knew He was listening and really cared about me. It is kind of embarrassing to admit this, but at one point my hand even felt warm...like He was holding it to give me comfort and reassurance. Sometimes I would look over just to make sure I wasn't dreaming and about to wreck. (Sure enough, my garbage bag full of clothes was still there.) I don't remember how the prayer/conversation ended, (I had probably just ran out of things to say) but I do know that I felt on overwhelming sense of peace and happiness. (At this point I began crying again...tears of joy this time.) I knew that God loved me and He was leading me to a new life.
Those first few years in Lexington weren't exactly perfect. Along the way, one decision led to another...and then another...until one day I was presented the opportunity to accept the gospel of Jesus Christ,to be baptized and to become a member of His Church. I was taught that my life had a purpose. There was a Plan of Happiness created and I am a child of God. I felt in the deepest part of my being that throughout my life, God had been watching over me, leading me along the path that would finally bring me to true happiness. (This is exactly why Proverbs 3:5-6 is my mantra!) He is my Father, Jesus is my Savior, and both are my very dearest friends.
If I were being honest with myself today, I would have to say that I could do a whole lot better with my side of the friendship. (Wait, maybe this is the point of today's topic...to evaluate what I am doing, or not doing in the relationship.) Still, I am so thankful that They are the best kind of friends...the ones that are always there for you. God never tires of hearing from me. In fact, He might even wish He heard from me more often and with more sincerity. He is always there to help. He knows precisely what I need. He forgives me over and over. He loves me perfectly.
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While I am on the subject, I find it coincidental that one of my BESTEST earthly friends made a post on her blog about me and our friendship. Charmaine, you are too kind! I love you to pieces! Thank you for being YOU...and all of the wonderfullness that encompasses!
Monday, December 1, 2008
"Walk" Day 1 Thoughts
My belief that this activity is just what I need was confirmed today when I realized that one of the scriptures happens to be a FAVORITE of mine. Proverbs 3:5-6 has been a mantra for me since I joined the church. ("Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.") In the throws of the day to day it is so easy for me to feel like it's me against the world. I find myself so rapped up in my worries or fears that I forget I have a loving Heavenly Father in my corner just waiting for me to tag Him for help.
Today I went to Him in prayer asking for help in facing a matter that I have been trying to avoid. I didn't ask for the problem to be taken away, merely the fear that has kept me from facing it. (Coincidentally making matters worse.) I immediately felt like a weight had been lifted and I sprang into action. I felt His hand guiding me throughout the day and I had an added measure of courage. I still have work to be done, but it has started to feel like a challenge I can meet with the Lord's help. I look forward to the day when the promise if Ether 12:27 is realized and this weakness of mine becomes a source of strength and power.
In other news, Jeff and I are officially grown ups. Today we put our icicle lights up for the first time. I held and unwound the strands, Jeff nailed and hung them, while Grace ran around getting nice and dirty. I experienced one of those moments in life when all worries fall away and you feel like things are just as they should be...perfect.
Today I went to Him in prayer asking for help in facing a matter that I have been trying to avoid. I didn't ask for the problem to be taken away, merely the fear that has kept me from facing it. (Coincidentally making matters worse.) I immediately felt like a weight had been lifted and I sprang into action. I felt His hand guiding me throughout the day and I had an added measure of courage. I still have work to be done, but it has started to feel like a challenge I can meet with the Lord's help. I look forward to the day when the promise if Ether 12:27 is realized and this weakness of mine becomes a source of strength and power.
In other news, Jeff and I are officially grown ups. Today we put our icicle lights up for the first time. I held and unwound the strands, Jeff nailed and hung them, while Grace ran around getting nice and dirty. I experienced one of those moments in life when all worries fall away and you feel like things are just as they should be...perfect.
14 Day Walk with Christ
I have been feeling a little disconnected from all things spiritual lately, and have wondered what I could do to strengthen my relationship with our Savior. (Besides the obvious Sunday School answers.) After all, He is the reason for the season...and there is no better time to reflect on His life and gospel. I remembered a booklet I received from one of our wards entitled "Your 14 Day Walk with Christ," and have felt prompted to do the daily activities it outlines. I invite anyone who wishes to join me to do so. I will post the activity each day for the first two weeks of December. Part of the plan is to evaluate my thoughts and feelings on that days topic, and I intend to do so on this blog. So here I go:
(The introduction to the "Walk")
"The only way we can really know another person is to walk in their shoes: think what they think, learn what they know, do what they do. Each morning, leave enough time to read the scriptures and other items for that day. Read and ponder what is written. Try to keep what you read in mind throughout the day and make a conscious effort to improve in that particular area. At the end of the day, reevaluate how you did by writing your thoughts and feelings in your journal. The questions presented can help. Every day has some scriptures followed by a set of questions to help you walk with Christ."
Day 1: Am I Seeking Christ's help?
(Because I am a terribly slow typer I have scanned the daily activities. Just click the image to enlarge it.)
(The introduction to the "Walk")
"The only way we can really know another person is to walk in their shoes: think what they think, learn what they know, do what they do. Each morning, leave enough time to read the scriptures and other items for that day. Read and ponder what is written. Try to keep what you read in mind throughout the day and make a conscious effort to improve in that particular area. At the end of the day, reevaluate how you did by writing your thoughts and feelings in your journal. The questions presented can help. Every day has some scriptures followed by a set of questions to help you walk with Christ."
Day 1: Am I Seeking Christ's help?
(Because I am a terribly slow typer I have scanned the daily activities. Just click the image to enlarge it.)
{Houston, We Have a Problem...}
Only ONE of the pleasantries that await me tomorrow! I need to get rid of the leftovers before the science experiments begin! Once, I found the cure for cancer in the back of my fridge. Shoot, I should've held on to that one!
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