Today is my last day of "summer" vacation. Where the time has gone, I have absolutely no idea. It has been great fun...especially having the alarm clock off. However, it is back to waking up with the alarm clock and to the books. I wanted to give ya'll a run down of all that I have looking at me this year. I don't know if being a senior has anything to it, but there just seems to be a lot!
Let's See....my math will continue to be Abeka's Consumer Math. I didn't get it quite finished last year. I will be honest, I have enjoyed not doing calculus:-)
English/Spelling/Grammar/Composition/Literature will also continue to be done with Total Language Plus. That has been my material for several years, and I heartily enjoy it. This year, my books will be The Scarlet Letter, Jane Eyre, and short stories by authors like O Henry and Edgar Allan Poe. I am looking forward to some more than others. (I have found Poe VERY morose and depressing.)
History and Geography will be Beautiful Feet, as it has been for several years. Due to where I ended last year, I will be starting at The Great Depression and going past Vietnam. So, some more book titles will include: To Kill A Mockingbird, The Diary of Anne Frank, The Story of the Von Trapp Singers, and many others. Again, I do not relish some....would you like to be reading biographies on Hitler and such? I am trying to remember that I cannot live in the American Revolution and The Civil War; these former events are ones that have shaped the world today.
I am doing Government this year and also Economics. What curriculum I will be using I don't remember. I am really excited to do Government; it absolutely fascinates me!! Though it depresses me too when I see how far we have strayed from God.
Science and Logic will also remain the same as last year. I am so glad that we have found something that works for science....and that I can understand it! :-) Logic is a great deal of fun. When we first began, I got so exasperated when I couldn't figure out the puzzle right away. Yet as we have worked on them more, we have increased in difficulty, which is a very rewarding feeling.
I cannot forget Bible, which is the most important subject we can focus on. Yes, Garrett and I each do our own quiet time, but we do it corporately as well. This year, we are going to be reading through the New Testament using the ESV Bible.
That is to be the bulk of my subjects this year. Now, if you take in to consideration that I still have piano lessons, going to the Dysktra's, HopeChest and Seasons at Home writing, working on a book with Erin, 3GWoodworks "stuff", sewing, keeping in touch with friends across the U.S., spending time with family, all without losing sight of the Lord getting the glory, I am really busy!!!! However, I am so glad that I can do these things from home, and that God has given me each blessing. Yet for now, I will enjoy the few hours I have left of my break. I will be doing something with Dad tonight, but he is keeping it a surprise. I will have to let you all know what it is, and how school begins, soon!!
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Thursday, October 11, 2007
In 10 Minutes, My Day Went Bad!
My day was great up until that minute. I had done HopeChest work, I had been able to get up, do my Bible, exercise on the stationary bike we got (for twenty minutes...or four miles:-) and practice my piano. I felt so happy!!
So, I had a free minute, and I opted to make a jelly roll cake for dessert yesterday. I go to put eggs in the bowl, and what should I find but....uh.....words cannot even describe it. (And for your benefit, I will not post a picture, which is worth a thousand words, that Garrett took. He did it for the company rep, who is very interest in our find.) My guess it would be a chicken, a partly formed chicken. I was so grossed out, my stomach began to get tied up in knots, and I had to get away from the bowl for a minute. Thankfully, I had only cracked one other egg, so that was all I lost. Needless, I had Mom crack the rest of the eggs. (I know it, I am terrible!) And to be honest, that event didn't make the cake taste that wonderful. Plus, Garrett made chicken noises every time I brought the fork near my mouth:-)
Alright, so the cake is baking, and Mom is in the kitchen with me. She turns over the CBD catalogue we had received in the mail, and she says, "Oh, so and so's husband dies." I had already looked at the catalogue before, but I didn't investigate the back. (Normally, there isn't much of interest.) Sure enough, she was right. In one of my favorite videos, a character I liked is dead. Many of you like this particular thing too. So, if you care to be depressed and sad, feel free to read here. That said, I will still watch it, and probably love it, which means I will by it. However, why did the writers take the story line this way?!
So, yeah, that was my day last night. Terrible, just terrible! Wouldn't you agree?
So, I had a free minute, and I opted to make a jelly roll cake for dessert yesterday. I go to put eggs in the bowl, and what should I find but....uh.....words cannot even describe it. (And for your benefit, I will not post a picture, which is worth a thousand words, that Garrett took. He did it for the company rep, who is very interest in our find.) My guess it would be a chicken, a partly formed chicken. I was so grossed out, my stomach began to get tied up in knots, and I had to get away from the bowl for a minute. Thankfully, I had only cracked one other egg, so that was all I lost. Needless, I had Mom crack the rest of the eggs. (I know it, I am terrible!) And to be honest, that event didn't make the cake taste that wonderful. Plus, Garrett made chicken noises every time I brought the fork near my mouth:-)
Alright, so the cake is baking, and Mom is in the kitchen with me. She turns over the CBD catalogue we had received in the mail, and she says, "Oh, so and so's husband dies." I had already looked at the catalogue before, but I didn't investigate the back. (Normally, there isn't much of interest.) Sure enough, she was right. In one of my favorite videos, a character I liked is dead. Many of you like this particular thing too. So, if you care to be depressed and sad, feel free to read here. That said, I will still watch it, and probably love it, which means I will by it. However, why did the writers take the story line this way?!
So, yeah, that was my day last night. Terrible, just terrible! Wouldn't you agree?
Saturday, October 06, 2007
Missing Something
It is no secret what my favorite movies are. I rave about Pride and Prejudice, Emma, Sense and Sensibility a lot. I felt compelled to mention Love Comes Softy and North and South here on the blog. Give me the choice between Anne of Green Gables and the latest "romantic comedy" and I will definitely choose the former. Overall, I just love girly movies...but that wasn't what this post was to be about.
There is something about these "timeless classics" that appeals to me. Do you know what it is? I could let you guess, but I am not:-) The way the women dress and act stirs up a feeling inside of me. It is a feeling that, if I could go back to those days, I would. Now, I know there are a lot of bonuses in this century. However, they pale in comparison to what we have lost.
I remember when I watched North and South particularly, an "object lesson" came to mind. Margaret, the main character, was at this fancy dinner party, wearing a slightly revealing dress. Her dress did not communicate, "Look at me and what I have." Rather I believe she was stating, "This dress doesn't state all about me. I have a sensible head on my shoulders, I can lovingly serve my mother and father, and I want you to get to know the real me." And in that scene, the main guy, Mr. Thornton, doesn't look at what is revealed; he looks at her face the entire time.
Now, think of what we have now. In supermarket aisles, we are bombarded with images of Hollywood actresses revealing anything and everything it seems. Always, the women are wearing cleavage showing, leg showing, form fitting clothes. And it communicates, "Oh, don't you wish you had me and what I have." These attitudes absolutely sicken me....and they are everywhere. You get it on tv, with such shows as "Dancing With The Stars." (I don't watch it; I just hear about it.) Movies and commercials now cater to this way of living. Even secular music covers aren't exempt.
What has gone wrong? You can't blame it on the changing fashion world. Even in Jane Austen's day, there were low dresses. (Granted they were not quite as low.) So, what is the deal? I believe it is the attitudes that have been to blame. We are human, after all. That said, I wish we didn't have the battles regarding dress that we do now. No longer do dresses and skirts communicate feminine or "I am a girl;" they communicate being sexy. People feel that they have to degrade themselves by revealing themselves in order to catch a guy. Wrong! Though they are fiction, every single movie I watch has the girl coming out victorious...and the guy isn't some nerd, either.
Those of us who long for the days gone by have a difficult road ahead. I cannot even imagine what will be "in" when I have a child. However, I will train her that God had something higher in store for us....and it is our job to do it. It might be wearing longer skirts and higher necklines as everyone looks at us with shocked faces. It might mean staying away from current romances, for honestly, is that the kind of relationship we want for us or them? Being regarded as feminine wasn't considered wacky up until recently. With God's help, let's try to bring it back. Let us not only look like women, but be willing to go against the trendsetters for the sake of our Christian brothers. Let's have our dress say, " I am a girl. I am a Daughter of the King, one who is highly regarded. There is more to me than my body. Focus on that. Only one guy will get that former part of me."
Intro, Part 1, Part 2, Part 3
There is something about these "timeless classics" that appeals to me. Do you know what it is? I could let you guess, but I am not:-) The way the women dress and act stirs up a feeling inside of me. It is a feeling that, if I could go back to those days, I would. Now, I know there are a lot of bonuses in this century. However, they pale in comparison to what we have lost.
I remember when I watched North and South particularly, an "object lesson" came to mind. Margaret, the main character, was at this fancy dinner party, wearing a slightly revealing dress. Her dress did not communicate, "Look at me and what I have." Rather I believe she was stating, "This dress doesn't state all about me. I have a sensible head on my shoulders, I can lovingly serve my mother and father, and I want you to get to know the real me." And in that scene, the main guy, Mr. Thornton, doesn't look at what is revealed; he looks at her face the entire time.
Now, think of what we have now. In supermarket aisles, we are bombarded with images of Hollywood actresses revealing anything and everything it seems. Always, the women are wearing cleavage showing, leg showing, form fitting clothes. And it communicates, "Oh, don't you wish you had me and what I have." These attitudes absolutely sicken me....and they are everywhere. You get it on tv, with such shows as "Dancing With The Stars." (I don't watch it; I just hear about it.) Movies and commercials now cater to this way of living. Even secular music covers aren't exempt.
What has gone wrong? You can't blame it on the changing fashion world. Even in Jane Austen's day, there were low dresses. (Granted they were not quite as low.) So, what is the deal? I believe it is the attitudes that have been to blame. We are human, after all. That said, I wish we didn't have the battles regarding dress that we do now. No longer do dresses and skirts communicate feminine or "I am a girl;" they communicate being sexy. People feel that they have to degrade themselves by revealing themselves in order to catch a guy. Wrong! Though they are fiction, every single movie I watch has the girl coming out victorious...and the guy isn't some nerd, either.
Those of us who long for the days gone by have a difficult road ahead. I cannot even imagine what will be "in" when I have a child. However, I will train her that God had something higher in store for us....and it is our job to do it. It might be wearing longer skirts and higher necklines as everyone looks at us with shocked faces. It might mean staying away from current romances, for honestly, is that the kind of relationship we want for us or them? Being regarded as feminine wasn't considered wacky up until recently. With God's help, let's try to bring it back. Let us not only look like women, but be willing to go against the trendsetters for the sake of our Christian brothers. Let's have our dress say, " I am a girl. I am a Daughter of the King, one who is highly regarded. There is more to me than my body. Focus on that. Only one guy will get that former part of me."
Intro, Part 1, Part 2, Part 3
Monday, October 01, 2007
One Way to Show Love to Your Sibling...Play Football:-)
Until the Lord decides otherwise, I only have one sibling. Garrett and I are relatively close in age, approximately eighteen months apart. When we were younger, we used to be at each other's throats. I would be lying if I said everything was picture perfect now; it's not. We both are human, and we both have this little annoying thing called "flesh." However, by God's grace and strength, we are getting better.
Lately, I have been trying to find ways to honor, serve, or please him. It isn't always easy to come up with. Whereas my love language is quality time, with gifts and encouraging words as close seconds, Garrett doesn't quite have one that I can lay my finger on. Yet I have discovered three ways.
First, I appeal to his appetite. What teenager doesn't like food? I always try to have yummy treats in the house on a weekly basis. It might mean dessert with dinner or cookies out of the blue. Regardless, I can plan on the stuff being gone a few days later,
Second, I wear pants every once in a while. Predominantly, I wear skirts. I find them more comfortable and feminine. (Yet I also know limitations with them. When biking, hiking, or some other activity is planned, I wear pants/capris for modesty.) That said, Garrett prefers pants. So, about once or twice a week, I wear them...knowing full well that he will say, "Nice dress code today!"
Lately I have discovered the third way to make my brother happy. I play the computer with him. Okay, you might think that isn't a great way to spend time, and granted, you are right. However, Garrett likes it....A LOT! So, today, even though I had HopeChest Magazine work to do, and I had A Man Called Peter on my nightstand, I played anyway. I will confess that at first, I did it a bit half-hearted, yet it got fun!
Lately, I have been trying to find ways to honor, serve, or please him. It isn't always easy to come up with. Whereas my love language is quality time, with gifts and encouraging words as close seconds, Garrett doesn't quite have one that I can lay my finger on. Yet I have discovered three ways.
First, I appeal to his appetite. What teenager doesn't like food? I always try to have yummy treats in the house on a weekly basis. It might mean dessert with dinner or cookies out of the blue. Regardless, I can plan on the stuff being gone a few days later,
Second, I wear pants every once in a while. Predominantly, I wear skirts. I find them more comfortable and feminine. (Yet I also know limitations with them. When biking, hiking, or some other activity is planned, I wear pants/capris for modesty.) That said, Garrett prefers pants. So, about once or twice a week, I wear them...knowing full well that he will say, "Nice dress code today!"
Lately I have discovered the third way to make my brother happy. I play the computer with him. Okay, you might think that isn't a great way to spend time, and granted, you are right. However, Garrett likes it....A LOT! So, today, even though I had HopeChest Magazine work to do, and I had A Man Called Peter on my nightstand, I played anyway. I will confess that at first, I did it a bit half-hearted, yet it got fun!
The game we play is football. I can't play any of the other ones we have!! (I guess when it comes to electronic gadgets, I would rather put a movie in the DVD player.) I do like playing football. I am always one particular team; Garrett switches every now and then. So, take a guess at who I was? And you can laugh at the score all you want...our defense really did exist:-)
So, I would encourage you all to find ways to lift your siblings up. Sure it isn't easy. I mean, I have a desk "littered" with articles that need judged. However, I also realize that that isn't as important as cultivating a relationship that I will have for the rest of my life. God has shown me that my brother can be a lot of fun!
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
"Do Not Awaken Love"
"Promise me, O women of Jerusalem, by the swift gazelles and the deers of the wild, not to awaken love until the time is right."(Song of Songs 2:7 NLT)
A few days ago, I read this verse on Rebekah's Blog, as a part of her daily Bible verse. I have to be honest, this verse got me to thinking...a lot! I pondered how absolutely vital living this verse out is.
Lately, I have been reading a lot about weddings. Natalie at YLCF, Alice's sister, Naomi, Genevieve from Isaacharian Daughters. I think these are the three I can think of off the top of my head. Now, I am absolutely happy for them. They have waited for their turn to say those wonderful words and start families of their own. I find weddings to be one of the best occasions on earth...and it can be HARD not to start imagining our own. You all probably know the feeling: the colors, the bridesmaids, the music, and (dare I admit it) wondering who the groom is.
Now, we all know these thoughts are wrong, particularly the last one. We know that we need to be not only physically pure, but emotionally as well. All of us recognize that for most of us, we have some years of singleness ahead. And that "Unless she has been asked to marry him, why would a sensible woman promise any man her exclusive attention?" (Elisabeth Elliot, yet I read it in I Kissed Dating Good-Bye) is very sound advice.
I wanted to write this post to be honest once again. I do struggle with my mind sometimes. As I find highschool nearing its completion, I wonder if my husband is around the corner. For the record, I am not going to stop creating my list of essential qualities, or reading beautiful courtships stories that bring God glory, or even praying for the man who will come in my life. And yes, I will still watch my favorite movies. However, I want to have accountability with all of you. I want us all to be praying about this area in each other's life. Not awakening love is Biblical, and I want to follow what He says. Sure, it isn't going to be easy, and it might mean taking some measures, but I want my husband not only to have my purity in body, but in my mind as well. Do you desire the same thing as well? Let us give our husbands a wonderful gift on our wedding day...or would it be our courtship? Let us give them a heart that has been touched only by God and our earthly father, and not many men. Let us not awaken love until the time is right.
A few days ago, I read this verse on Rebekah's Blog, as a part of her daily Bible verse. I have to be honest, this verse got me to thinking...a lot! I pondered how absolutely vital living this verse out is.
Lately, I have been reading a lot about weddings. Natalie at YLCF, Alice's sister, Naomi, Genevieve from Isaacharian Daughters. I think these are the three I can think of off the top of my head. Now, I am absolutely happy for them. They have waited for their turn to say those wonderful words and start families of their own. I find weddings to be one of the best occasions on earth...and it can be HARD not to start imagining our own. You all probably know the feeling: the colors, the bridesmaids, the music, and (dare I admit it) wondering who the groom is.
Now, we all know these thoughts are wrong, particularly the last one. We know that we need to be not only physically pure, but emotionally as well. All of us recognize that for most of us, we have some years of singleness ahead. And that "Unless she has been asked to marry him, why would a sensible woman promise any man her exclusive attention?" (Elisabeth Elliot, yet I read it in I Kissed Dating Good-Bye) is very sound advice.
I wanted to write this post to be honest once again. I do struggle with my mind sometimes. As I find highschool nearing its completion, I wonder if my husband is around the corner. For the record, I am not going to stop creating my list of essential qualities, or reading beautiful courtships stories that bring God glory, or even praying for the man who will come in my life. And yes, I will still watch my favorite movies. However, I want to have accountability with all of you. I want us all to be praying about this area in each other's life. Not awakening love is Biblical, and I want to follow what He says. Sure, it isn't going to be easy, and it might mean taking some measures, but I want my husband not only to have my purity in body, but in my mind as well. Do you desire the same thing as well? Let us give our husbands a wonderful gift on our wedding day...or would it be our courtship? Let us give them a heart that has been touched only by God and our earthly father, and not many men. Let us not awaken love until the time is right.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Do Hard Things...But Fair Warning, It Isn't Always Easy:-)
Around Valentine's Day, I discovered The Rebelution. While I went looking for the modesty survey, I also found the blog in the process. Needless to say, it has been such a blessing to me. It has motivated me...and convicted me. Particularly, they encourage me to "do hard things."
Now, that means something different for each and every individual. For me, it is going against the typical lifestyle that people my age follow. However, of late, "doing hard things" has been just that; it has been hard. On Sunday, we listened to a sermon from R.C. Sproul Jr. He talked about trials in his life (with his daughter and his wife's illnesses) and wondering, "Lord, all this was in the contract when I signed on with you?"
I have felt that way the past two days. I have seen myself as the only homeschooling, modestly dressed, not dating or attending college girl in the entire Pacific Northwest. When thinking of my future graduation, I feel very low. Due to the way I have chosen to live, I won't have many people at my ceremony...and that is sad. Graduations are supposed to be happy affairs, right? At any rate, I have felt like Mr. Sproul. I have had my share of tears. "When is enough enough, Lord? I didn't know that my teenage years where going to be like this:-) I can't do the hard things all alone much more."
However, last night, as I was trying to fall asleep, God reminded me of things that I have written on this blog. I have asked Him to "Bring the Rain" if that is what it takes to be like Him. Magazine articles have talked about "Beauty in Life's Mountains" All of it is worthless if I do not live it out myself. I WANT to "do hard things," regardless of the cost or pain that it will inflict upon me....."Yet you do not have to do it alone, My Daughter. My grace is sufficient for you. My strength is all you need. I know the promises I have for you, and they DO include a future and a hope. Cling to Me when you falter, and I will lift you up on wings like eagles. Even though you are human, I don't want you to stop the hard things. Sure, it is hard, the name suggests that, but I WILL see you through. Continue on with walking the straight and narrow; you are not alone. Do the hard things, Ella. It is okay to be separate: remember that!"
Thank you, Father...thank you!
Now, that means something different for each and every individual. For me, it is going against the typical lifestyle that people my age follow. However, of late, "doing hard things" has been just that; it has been hard. On Sunday, we listened to a sermon from R.C. Sproul Jr. He talked about trials in his life (with his daughter and his wife's illnesses) and wondering, "Lord, all this was in the contract when I signed on with you?"
I have felt that way the past two days. I have seen myself as the only homeschooling, modestly dressed, not dating or attending college girl in the entire Pacific Northwest. When thinking of my future graduation, I feel very low. Due to the way I have chosen to live, I won't have many people at my ceremony...and that is sad. Graduations are supposed to be happy affairs, right? At any rate, I have felt like Mr. Sproul. I have had my share of tears. "When is enough enough, Lord? I didn't know that my teenage years where going to be like this:-) I can't do the hard things all alone much more."
However, last night, as I was trying to fall asleep, God reminded me of things that I have written on this blog. I have asked Him to "Bring the Rain" if that is what it takes to be like Him. Magazine articles have talked about "Beauty in Life's Mountains" All of it is worthless if I do not live it out myself. I WANT to "do hard things," regardless of the cost or pain that it will inflict upon me....."Yet you do not have to do it alone, My Daughter. My grace is sufficient for you. My strength is all you need. I know the promises I have for you, and they DO include a future and a hope. Cling to Me when you falter, and I will lift you up on wings like eagles. Even though you are human, I don't want you to stop the hard things. Sure, it is hard, the name suggests that, but I WILL see you through. Continue on with walking the straight and narrow; you are not alone. Do the hard things, Ella. It is okay to be separate: remember that!"
Thank you, Father...thank you!
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Across the Miles
Once upon a time, there lived two friends. They shared a great relationship, built on solid foundations and the same convictions. This friendship came about through a comment on a mutual blog, and God used that to bring these two into each other's lives. They have never met in person, but many e-mails have passed between the two of them....and countless prayers as well.
However, as one of them was going to Starbucks in Indianapolis on a certain day, the other girl, this author, thought,"Why not I go to Starbucks as well?" Now of course, the one could not jump on an airplane and join the other one. Yet she could synchronize her watch and go to her local coffee shop when her friend was at hers. And that is just what she did.
At 8 o'clock, mountain daylight time, this author walked into her local Starbucks (in the next town, as her city doesn't have one quite yet) and ordered a Pumpkin Spice Creme...no coffee. At 9 o'clock, central daylight time, Erin walked into a Starbucks Indianapolis and ordered.....I have no idea. As this author was not there, she cannot give a first hand account. However, knowing her friend, I will guess that her drink was definitely something with coffee. =)
Yet while these two were miles apart, separated by states, time zones, and the mighty Mississippi, these friends were at Starbucks together. Both were with friends (I was with my wonderful mother) and both were in the other's thoughts...and prayers.
Erin, I loved our time at Starbucks together. I was thinking and praying for you the whole time I drank my yummy creme. Sure, I wish I had been with you in person, so we could meet face to face at long last. However, it wasn't God's time yet. I do pray that it will be soon, as with all my other long distance friends!After her time at the coffee shop, this author came away with something. She wants to do this again, whether it be with Erin at Starbucks, or Alice and a movie., or any other friend. This author loved being with a close, God given friend at the same time, doing the same thing....and she would encourage ya'll to do something across the miles as well!
Monday, September 10, 2007
Home Again..and Ya'll Have A Lot To Catch Up On
Yay! It is so good to quit driving! The family got home last night, and did we take it easy! Now, it is time to do laundry, pick up the mail, and update this blog! I hope you all enjoy the pictures, as well as the “daily snippets” I tried to do. (Actually, instead of working of my “own stuff,” I did this.) Everything will be in a daily post, in chronological order, so you might have to read a ways. Anyway, while it was nice to see new places, it is good to be home!
Growing and Changing
It is Sunday, September 02, 2007. As I sit here in the backseat, I stand amazed at God’s beauty, His majesty, and ultimately His grace. Perhaps listening to 4Him hymns has added this “feeling,” this “knowledge,” to my unworthy mind.
We aren’t in California yet; I think we have another 3 hours to go. Yet while the Redwoods are our destination, I must say that I love Oregon! Living in Boise, where trees, dense trees, are few in far between, I am enjoying pine trees on both sides of the interstate, pine trees on the mountains…you get the picture…I hope! I guess the love of green is still deep within me. After all, I lived in the South for ten years, and that is definitely lush.
I marvel at the variety we have here in the United States. Southern Idaho is desert, yet only a few hours away, are firs, pines, and junipers. The Southeast is filled with cypress, azalea, and dogwood, while the Southwest has cacti. North Carolina and Tennessee are renowned for the Smoky Mountains, but across the state line in Kentucky, you have horse pastures galore. Nebraska and the Great Plains are flat, yet wheat and corn fields are everywhere there. Truly, we live in a very diverse world. (Both landscape and people wise, I guess.)
Honestly, I cannot believe that the Lord has allowed me to see the wonders of his creation. I certainly do not deserve it; my sin is ugly to me, it has to be to Him. Yet God’s mercies are new every morning. He enables me to see another day. He has also allowed me to live in a beautiful, free nation. Unlike the Soviet Union with its citizens, I have the ability to travel and see new places. I can experience the Sequoias (the big trees we are going to see) the ocean, and a new state all at the same time. I am so thankful to God that I can see, touch, smell, and hear these beauties.
Perhaps God is also growing me. I am slowly, painfully, learning that I don’t know what my future holds. I have seen that with my church situations, but what if God does have moving in my future? I don’t really want to think of moving from Boise; even with all its failings, it is my home. However, maybe, just maybe, moving is the next step that I am to take along my life’s road. As I do not hold the script, I don’t know what will happen if I do move. I do know that God’s way is better than Ella’s way. (I just don’t always remember that:-) If I am completely truthful with myself, I would say that I would not mind living in Oregon. Okay, it is way more Liberal than I like, but I do find it beautiful. (Way too expensive though)
I seem to be rambling. I guess God is opening my eyes and molding my heart. He knows that I want to live in absolute submission to His will. Perhaps Oregon’s “greenness” is making the first necessary step to my doing that.
We aren’t in California yet; I think we have another 3 hours to go. Yet while the Redwoods are our destination, I must say that I love Oregon! Living in Boise, where trees, dense trees, are few in far between, I am enjoying pine trees on both sides of the interstate, pine trees on the mountains…you get the picture…I hope! I guess the love of green is still deep within me. After all, I lived in the South for ten years, and that is definitely lush.
I marvel at the variety we have here in the United States. Southern Idaho is desert, yet only a few hours away, are firs, pines, and junipers. The Southeast is filled with cypress, azalea, and dogwood, while the Southwest has cacti. North Carolina and Tennessee are renowned for the Smoky Mountains, but across the state line in Kentucky, you have horse pastures galore. Nebraska and the Great Plains are flat, yet wheat and corn fields are everywhere there. Truly, we live in a very diverse world. (Both landscape and people wise, I guess.)
Honestly, I cannot believe that the Lord has allowed me to see the wonders of his creation. I certainly do not deserve it; my sin is ugly to me, it has to be to Him. Yet God’s mercies are new every morning. He enables me to see another day. He has also allowed me to live in a beautiful, free nation. Unlike the Soviet Union with its citizens, I have the ability to travel and see new places. I can experience the Sequoias (the big trees we are going to see) the ocean, and a new state all at the same time. I am so thankful to God that I can see, touch, smell, and hear these beauties.
Perhaps God is also growing me. I am slowly, painfully, learning that I don’t know what my future holds. I have seen that with my church situations, but what if God does have moving in my future? I don’t really want to think of moving from Boise; even with all its failings, it is my home. However, maybe, just maybe, moving is the next step that I am to take along my life’s road. As I do not hold the script, I don’t know what will happen if I do move. I do know that God’s way is better than Ella’s way. (I just don’t always remember that:-) If I am completely truthful with myself, I would say that I would not mind living in Oregon. Okay, it is way more Liberal than I like, but I do find it beautiful. (Way too expensive though)
I seem to be rambling. I guess God is opening my eyes and molding my heart. He knows that I want to live in absolute submission to His will. Perhaps Oregon’s “greenness” is making the first necessary step to my doing that.
Pictures of Trees That Are Perfect For....
Acting goofy and looking ridiculous...and terrible
Taking potential senior portraits
Being a tree hugger just once :-)
Driving amongst them
Proving to the world how short you are ;-)
Being a tree hugger just once :-)
Driving amongst them
Proving to the world how short you are ;-)Memories and Modesty
We finally arrived in California. I must admit that I am having a difficult time not stereotyping the place. After all, my family views California as the second weirdest state in the U.S., with Massachusetts being the first. (Guess it comes from living in a conservative family) Also, I do wish the town we are in was slightly prettier…and friendlier. On that score, it can not compare with what I saw of Oregon.
However, I am loving the ocean!! I have many fond memories of playing in the sand and surf back in the Florida days. I recall past vacations getting sand dollars on the beach. So, when I saw the Pacific, it was like, “wow!” (And to think that the Explorers didn’t know about this ocean….) I believe the plan is to go eat a late picnic lunch on the waterfront; I am looking forward to that. Hopefully, though, it will either be deserted where we go, or that there will be modest dress. I don’t understand why people want to swim in that water; to my memory of the Oregon Coast back in 2001, it was cold! I know that there is “More to Modesty,” but if I have the choice, I don’t want my brother and Dad to have issues with their eyes. They get that enough at home. A vacation is meant for relaxing. NOTE: the dress that day was bad. Mom and I actually thought women were going around in the underwear We chose not to expose the guys to that. Now, it is two days later, and as most everyone is back to school and work, we don’t have any issues.
God doesn’t have to show me any more beautiful wonders. I have seen so much diversity just today. However, there is supposed to be good whale watching. I would love to see that! Wouldn’t it be just like the Lord to show me more than I deserve? He does that enough, in regards to grace for my sins. I really do not need more; He has been “more than enough” on this trip. But yes, I would enjoy seeing one of God’s creatures that you usually don’t see. However, if I do not get to, I am okay with that. Seeing the ocean once again was a great thrill in itself.
However, I am loving the ocean!! I have many fond memories of playing in the sand and surf back in the Florida days. I recall past vacations getting sand dollars on the beach. So, when I saw the Pacific, it was like, “wow!” (And to think that the Explorers didn’t know about this ocean….) I believe the plan is to go eat a late picnic lunch on the waterfront; I am looking forward to that. Hopefully, though, it will either be deserted where we go, or that there will be modest dress. I don’t understand why people want to swim in that water; to my memory of the Oregon Coast back in 2001, it was cold! I know that there is “More to Modesty,” but if I have the choice, I don’t want my brother and Dad to have issues with their eyes. They get that enough at home. A vacation is meant for relaxing. NOTE: the dress that day was bad. Mom and I actually thought women were going around in the underwear We chose not to expose the guys to that. Now, it is two days later, and as most everyone is back to school and work, we don’t have any issues.
God doesn’t have to show me any more beautiful wonders. I have seen so much diversity just today. However, there is supposed to be good whale watching. I would love to see that! Wouldn’t it be just like the Lord to show me more than I deserve? He does that enough, in regards to grace for my sins. I really do not need more; He has been “more than enough” on this trip. But yes, I would enjoy seeing one of God’s creatures that you usually don’t see. However, if I do not get to, I am okay with that. Seeing the ocean once again was a great thrill in itself.
What We Gardners Do Best
Well, today’s specialty was driving! You know, it is quite funny actually. We all detest long car rides, like the eight hour ones. However, when we get to our destination, we just drive, drive, and drive. It is that way in Yellowstone, and the Redwoods have been no different.
Yet, today there was a twist. At least three of the roads we went done were either no good or unsuccessful. For instance, we went up a road that was supposedly a good place for whale watching. (Still after that elusive mammal…) Anyway, when we got up to the lookout, it was like we were in an airplane. There was fog all across the ocean, and we were above it all, in blue sky. It was quite cool. We joked that it looked like snow, and that an individual was in for a surprise if they thought, “Oh, I am going to walk in the snow!” They would go falling down the cliff to the rocky bottom below.
For the record, the little bit I was in Oregon was so much better than California. We are discovering higher gas prices, more rude drivers and helpers, and green democrats. That doesn’t fit me and mine, does it? I just told Mom today that I do not belong here in California. It is too decadent of a place for me. I know I have no control over where my future husband will want to live, but I really hope California isn’t it…unless there is a really conservative spot that I do not ever hear about!
Yet, today there was a twist. At least three of the roads we went done were either no good or unsuccessful. For instance, we went up a road that was supposedly a good place for whale watching. (Still after that elusive mammal…) Anyway, when we got up to the lookout, it was like we were in an airplane. There was fog all across the ocean, and we were above it all, in blue sky. It was quite cool. We joked that it looked like snow, and that an individual was in for a surprise if they thought, “Oh, I am going to walk in the snow!” They would go falling down the cliff to the rocky bottom below.
The other thing we’ve been driving for today is a seafood restaurant. It is a tradition that every time we are on the Coast, we get seafood. (Besides, the food we packed doesn’t seem to be unfrozen as of yet) However, we have gone up and down the town, and even back into Oregon, and either restaurants are closed or exorbitantly priced. In fact, we still haven’t found anything yet. I think we might be waiting until tomorrow. NOTE: we did not do seafood that night; taco meat was thawed.
We did go walking on the beach today, and no issues with swimsuits. We went in the morning when it was slightly foggy and cold. We also went searching in tidepools. We found a few sea anemones, sea cucumbers, starfish, and some crazy looking seaweed. However, our past finds in tidepools on other vacations have fared better. Perhaps, as we are here for a few more days, things will change. After all, every low tide brings new wonders from the deep of God’s creation.
For the record, the little bit I was in Oregon was so much better than California. We are discovering higher gas prices, more rude drivers and helpers, and green democrats. That doesn’t fit me and mine, does it? I just told Mom today that I do not belong here in California. It is too decadent of a place for me. I know I have no control over where my future husband will want to live, but I really hope California isn’t it…unless there is a really conservative spot that I do not ever hear about!
Do Not Worry....Easier Said Than Done
“Do not be anxious for anything…” I must admit that I do not always live that verse out. All throughout my life, I have struggled with worry and fear. It used to be really bad. In fact, I recall that when I was younger, I once saw a snippet of a tv show and two girls were in an automobile accident; they were misidentified. For years, I used to think that would happen to either of my parents. Yet as I have grown up, and grown in my faith, bit by bit my fears have gone away. (You all know that certain things in Yellowstone help me with that.)
However, that said, I don’t feel comfortable in isolation. I have heard too many murder and kidnapping stories. My own state had an incident last year. At any rate, our “original” campsite here in the Redwoods was the epitome of isolation…or it was that way to Mom and me. Our spot was at least three miles of the beaten path, in the thick growth, and there wasn’t going to be a ranger or a camp host for the majority of our stay. I did not like that one bit. While I do not want to be in a crowd to the point of claustrophobia, I do like people around me. Mom feels the same way. So, we moved the camper to a more “frequented” campground. I feel much more at ease, and I honestly think the rest of the family feels the same way.
The second campground
Perhaps it appears as if my “worry and fear” got the best of me. Perhaps it did. I will confess that last night it took prayer to get me asleep…and recalling to mid songs that I used to sing at age 5. However, the Lord knows how much I want to continue to gain victory in this area of my life, “the hard things,” so to speak. However, I have seen continual small victories in this way; for fear doesn’t really rule my life anymore. Yes, I do get stressed about situations, and I want to take it into my hands, which you all know :-) Yet, I do give Him all the glory, honor, and praise that He is slowly helping me, refining me, in this area of my life.
I want to hear from ya’ll though. Do any of you struggle with worry or fear? In what form does it take place? And what do you do about it?
However, that said, I don’t feel comfortable in isolation. I have heard too many murder and kidnapping stories. My own state had an incident last year. At any rate, our “original” campsite here in the Redwoods was the epitome of isolation…or it was that way to Mom and me. Our spot was at least three miles of the beaten path, in the thick growth, and there wasn’t going to be a ranger or a camp host for the majority of our stay. I did not like that one bit. While I do not want to be in a crowd to the point of claustrophobia, I do like people around me. Mom feels the same way. So, we moved the camper to a more “frequented” campground. I feel much more at ease, and I honestly think the rest of the family feels the same way.
The second campground
Perhaps it appears as if my “worry and fear” got the best of me. Perhaps it did. I will confess that last night it took prayer to get me asleep…and recalling to mid songs that I used to sing at age 5. However, the Lord knows how much I want to continue to gain victory in this area of my life, “the hard things,” so to speak. However, I have seen continual small victories in this way; for fear doesn’t really rule my life anymore. Yes, I do get stressed about situations, and I want to take it into my hands, which you all know :-) Yet, I do give Him all the glory, honor, and praise that He is slowly helping me, refining me, in this area of my life.
I want to hear from ya’ll though. Do any of you struggle with worry or fear? In what form does it take place? And what do you do about it?
Leaving California
My family has a reputation for moving, that is sure. We’ve moved across country several times, moved in the Treasure Valley several times, and our camper around more than we planned. We did not bargain on our original campground in the Redwoods being the way it was, which was why we moved first. However, we also didn’t think we would have gone through the whole park in three days time. (We couldn’t imagine that being the case in Yellowstone!) So, we left the Redwoods a day early, and we are on our way to Crater Lake.
We all have said that while the Redwoods were pretty (and tall,) we prefer Yellowstone. In fact, if I had to choose between the tress we’ve seen or the ocean, I liked the ocean best. Like I stated previously, I have fond memories of the beach.
Why do people feel compelled to grafetti things?
I learned two things while in California. The first was that when you go to a seafood restaurant, and there is an entree that is famous with the locals, go for it. On Tuesday, we finally did get our traditional seafood dinner at Beachcomers. I debated about getting the favorite, parmesan halibut, but I opted not to for fear I would hate it. I got fried prawns instead…which I can easily get at Red Lobster back home. (Though I will confess that seafood is a rare treat in any case.) Garrett got the halibut, and I tried it. Boy, was it yummy! Next time, I will just go with my gut instinct and give something new a try. Normally I do and Garrett does not.
The other thing I learned in California was that if I never come back to that state, I would be okay. Sure it would be cool to go to the Golden Gate Bridge, go down Lombard Street, and eat seafood and sourdough at Fisherman’s wharf, but it isn’t an absolute necessity. I do not belong in California. I must be a country bumpkin or something!
We all have said that while the Redwoods were pretty (and tall,) we prefer Yellowstone. In fact, if I had to choose between the tress we’ve seen or the ocean, I liked the ocean best. Like I stated previously, I have fond memories of the beach.
Why do people feel compelled to grafetti things?I learned two things while in California. The first was that when you go to a seafood restaurant, and there is an entree that is famous with the locals, go for it. On Tuesday, we finally did get our traditional seafood dinner at Beachcomers. I debated about getting the favorite, parmesan halibut, but I opted not to for fear I would hate it. I got fried prawns instead…which I can easily get at Red Lobster back home. (Though I will confess that seafood is a rare treat in any case.) Garrett got the halibut, and I tried it. Boy, was it yummy! Next time, I will just go with my gut instinct and give something new a try. Normally I do and Garrett does not.
The other thing I learned in California was that if I never come back to that state, I would be okay. Sure it would be cool to go to the Golden Gate Bridge, go down Lombard Street, and eat seafood and sourdough at Fisherman’s wharf, but it isn’t an absolute necessity. I do not belong in California. I must be a country bumpkin or something!
Sometimes, Even Vacation Brings About Lessons to Learn
Submission is something that I want to get better in. Lest you think that I have it all together, I want you to be made perfectly aware that I am not. I know that the way I submit now will be the way I submit to me husband…and I do not always act correctly.
I have mentioned that my family has started a woodworking business. And while I like the money that comes from my share of the profits (as I do the books) I don’t like going from woodshop to woodshop. The guys look at exotic woods for what seems to be hours, as Mom and I stay in the car. If I have it right, we have made stops at five wood places, with at least two more planned ones to go.
I will confess that I don’t nearly “do hard things” as often as I want. I am a sinner, who doesn’t always want to be inconvenienced. In fact, I will admit that I can be selfish about it. After all, I don’t go in the wood stores and I don’t care to “shop” as often as we do. It is terrible, but I realize that I want the benefits of the business without all the necessary measures of it.
While Dad never gets angry at me when I make a fuss, I know that he is grieved by my actions. (Mom is too, even though it might bug her some too. She is just more understanding than I am.) However, I grieve myself. I talk on here about submission, but I don’t always practice it myself. For that, I am sorry. I pray that by God’s strength, I will get better at this. I want my husband to get a totally submissive wife! I also need to remember that the “trials,” even ones as mundane as going from wood shop to wood shop, develop character…and I can always use a better one.
Again, I want to know your thoughts. Do you struggle with submission to your dads (or perhaps, if someone married is reading this, your spouse?) How do you better yourself in this area? Or is it just easy for you? If so, how did you get that way?
I have mentioned that my family has started a woodworking business. And while I like the money that comes from my share of the profits (as I do the books) I don’t like going from woodshop to woodshop. The guys look at exotic woods for what seems to be hours, as Mom and I stay in the car. If I have it right, we have made stops at five wood places, with at least two more planned ones to go.
I will confess that I don’t nearly “do hard things” as often as I want. I am a sinner, who doesn’t always want to be inconvenienced. In fact, I will admit that I can be selfish about it. After all, I don’t go in the wood stores and I don’t care to “shop” as often as we do. It is terrible, but I realize that I want the benefits of the business without all the necessary measures of it.
While Dad never gets angry at me when I make a fuss, I know that he is grieved by my actions. (Mom is too, even though it might bug her some too. She is just more understanding than I am.) However, I grieve myself. I talk on here about submission, but I don’t always practice it myself. For that, I am sorry. I pray that by God’s strength, I will get better at this. I want my husband to get a totally submissive wife! I also need to remember that the “trials,” even ones as mundane as going from wood shop to wood shop, develop character…and I can always use a better one.
Again, I want to know your thoughts. Do you struggle with submission to your dads (or perhaps, if someone married is reading this, your spouse?) How do you better yourself in this area? Or is it just easy for you? If so, how did you get that way?
Crater Lake
Frankly, it is hard to believe all that we have done today. We got to Crater Lake yesterday evening. It was pretty late, as we had been at a, (guess) wood store way longer than anticipated. So, we just set up the camper and slept. It was rather cool; great to wake up to in the mornings. I was surprised that it was cooler there than near the Coast, but perhaps since we were at a higher elevation, it shouldn’t.
Okay, you have to know something about my family. When we go on vacation, it takes us days to see everything. As we had a tendency to remember Yellowstone, I will use it as an example. We are there about five to six days, and going, going, going, every day. Here at Crater Lake, it was a little different. We saw everything in a matter of five HOURS. You can not go down to the water except by one way, yet it was a steep pat, so Dad said no. It is thirty-three miles around the lake, and it is slated that one finishes in about two to three hours. We must take longer than most or something. At any rate, it was lovely. Like Oregon being green, Crater Lake was really blue. God truly uses many different colors on his “creation coloring pallet!”
Okay, you have to know something about my family. When we go on vacation, it takes us days to see everything. As we had a tendency to remember Yellowstone, I will use it as an example. We are there about five to six days, and going, going, going, every day. Here at Crater Lake, it was a little different. We saw everything in a matter of five HOURS. You can not go down to the water except by one way, yet it was a steep pat, so Dad said no. It is thirty-three miles around the lake, and it is slated that one finishes in about two to three hours. We must take longer than most or something. At any rate, it was lovely. Like Oregon being green, Crater Lake was really blue. God truly uses many different colors on his “creation coloring pallet!”
(Wizard Island on Crater Lake. They say it looks like a qizard's hat. I can't see it, and I think it should have a different name.)
(The Phantom Ship. They say it looks like a pirate ship, so I will call it the Flying Dutchman. Can anyone see the ship?)
The Pinnacles. Crazy looking things, aren't they?
The only waterfall we saw.
Maybe a senior picture...though I am not sure if it is my choice.Nothing much else after that. We all just took it easy, which was good. We had to change our return trip plans several times, but finally we got it squared away. We are staying near the town of Bend, Oregon for tomorrow night. I remember liking the town when we drove through on our way to the Redwoods
Final Day
The vacation is over. We are heading home now. I do love family vacations, but it will be nice to get changed privately (and not in the dark) and sleep in my own bed, especially after last night.
I did not like the campground in Bend. It was way too much like a fish bowl. There was no privacy whatsoever. When we set up the camper, you walked out the door into a tree. We were right near the bathroom, which is okay, except at night when lights remain on. Now, I like people around me when we go camping; I don’t want isolation like our first Redwoods campground. But I do want space, and we didn’t have it. In fact, we went to Sisters, Oregon, just to get away for a while. That town was pretty busy (I think they were having a bike race or something) Dad and Garrett looked for wood ideas, and I tried to see where Multomah Publishing might be. (Not that I am anywhere near that stage…but more on that at another time.) We also got our tradition vacation ice cream; this year at “ordinary” Baskin Robbins.
I do not want to bat down where I stayed; that isn’t the nicest thing to do. Yet I will be honest. Of all the campground we were at, this one was the worst.
I did not like the campground in Bend. It was way too much like a fish bowl. There was no privacy whatsoever. When we set up the camper, you walked out the door into a tree. We were right near the bathroom, which is okay, except at night when lights remain on. Now, I like people around me when we go camping; I don’t want isolation like our first Redwoods campground. But I do want space, and we didn’t have it. In fact, we went to Sisters, Oregon, just to get away for a while. That town was pretty busy (I think they were having a bike race or something) Dad and Garrett looked for wood ideas, and I tried to see where Multomah Publishing might be. (Not that I am anywhere near that stage…but more on that at another time.) We also got our tradition vacation ice cream; this year at “ordinary” Baskin Robbins.
I do not want to bat down where I stayed; that isn’t the nicest thing to do. Yet I will be honest. Of all the campground we were at, this one was the worst.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Let's Pack Up and Go To California...
I wanted to do a post that was "uplifting," but I am experiencing what we call writer's block. I don't like when I get that! I tried writing in my notebook; yet I kept crossing things out. My page looked terrible. I have gotten a laptop (or it is on the way) that I hope will create less messiness. Also, I will be able to use it on the road...like vacation.
So, even though I do not leave until Saturday morning, I thought I had better say "good-bye" now. I see myself being super busy these next two days. We have to get groceries, take my bird to where we are boarding her, clean the house, pack, etc. Plus, when I go on the computer, I have e-mails to type.
I am looking forward to our family vacation. We decided to go to Crater Lake, Oregon, and Redwoods National Park, California. I have never been to those places...and this type of change doesn't bother me. (Unlike other kinds:-) We are spending the bulk of our time in California, camping on the coast, and driving every day into the Park. I am so excited to see the Pacific Ocean; the last time I saw an ocean was back in 2001 when we went to Rockaway Beach, Oregon.
I will miss posting on here for ten days, and I will miss ya'lls fellowship. You all will definitely be in my thoughts and prayers. I hope that while I am gone, you might read previous posts and that you will see the Lord high and lifted up. I have high hopes that the Lord will teach and grow me in many ways while I am on vacation. It doesn't have anything to do with learning about trees. Rather, I hope that God directs me in"Doing Hard Things" and beating the "Myth of Adolescence"...and making it clear if I am to write a book and get it published. (More on that later;-) I know that God will make Himself clear to each of us in His time!
I hope you all are looking forward to pictures, because you are going to get a lot of them! Take care and God bless!
So, even though I do not leave until Saturday morning, I thought I had better say "good-bye" now. I see myself being super busy these next two days. We have to get groceries, take my bird to where we are boarding her, clean the house, pack, etc. Plus, when I go on the computer, I have e-mails to type.
I am looking forward to our family vacation. We decided to go to Crater Lake, Oregon, and Redwoods National Park, California. I have never been to those places...and this type of change doesn't bother me. (Unlike other kinds:-) We are spending the bulk of our time in California, camping on the coast, and driving every day into the Park. I am so excited to see the Pacific Ocean; the last time I saw an ocean was back in 2001 when we went to Rockaway Beach, Oregon.
I will miss posting on here for ten days, and I will miss ya'lls fellowship. You all will definitely be in my thoughts and prayers. I hope that while I am gone, you might read previous posts and that you will see the Lord high and lifted up. I have high hopes that the Lord will teach and grow me in many ways while I am on vacation. It doesn't have anything to do with learning about trees. Rather, I hope that God directs me in"Doing Hard Things" and beating the "Myth of Adolescence"...and making it clear if I am to write a book and get it published. (More on that later;-) I know that God will make Himself clear to each of us in His time!
I hope you all are looking forward to pictures, because you are going to get a lot of them! Take care and God bless!
Thursday, August 23, 2007
School Is Over....Kind Of
While most people are starting back to school, I am just finishing up last year. It is the way we do things in our family. Since we much prefer the fall, we school through the summer, and take September and October off. Well, Monday will be our last day. I won't do the saying, "No more pictures, no more books, no more teacher's dirty looks," since it isn't true at all. I am just going to recap my favorite (and least favorite) things of this year. It will be for my benefit...and if you are interested, that is great too!
My 5 Favorite Books I Read This Year: 1.) Pride and Prejudice
2.) The Scarlet Pimpernel
3.) Uncle Tom's Cabin
4.) Across Five Aprils
5.) Rifles For Watie
My Least Favorite Books of the Year: 1.) The Jungle
2.) Stalin, Russia's Man of Steel
3.) Uh....That is really it
The Most Complicated Thing I learned: The tax section in Consumer Math (I am so thankful
that I have a Dad, who is an accountant, and ready to
assist.)
One of the Happiest Events: When we finally found something that works for science. I enjoy
Ken Ham's lectures....and they are way more interesting than a
boring textbook! :-)
What My Extra-Curricular Events Were: Piano lessons and sewing....and that was enough. Now,
I have all of my editing and writing with magazines.
Busy....at home!
What I Viewed as A Great Achievement: Finishing my 14 page Ronald Reagan research paper!
Okay, that was the bulk of what I did this year. I didn't have any "blood, sweat, and tears" like I did a few years back with Algebra :-) It was a good year this past year. I will enjoy a few weeks off, and then, I look forward to the new subjects (or actually the new books) I will get to read and learn!
My 5 Favorite Books I Read This Year: 1.) Pride and Prejudice
2.) The Scarlet Pimpernel
3.) Uncle Tom's Cabin
4.) Across Five Aprils
5.) Rifles For Watie
My Least Favorite Books of the Year: 1.) The Jungle
2.) Stalin, Russia's Man of Steel
3.) Uh....That is really it
The Most Complicated Thing I learned: The tax section in Consumer Math (I am so thankful
that I have a Dad, who is an accountant, and ready to
assist.)
One of the Happiest Events: When we finally found something that works for science. I enjoy
Ken Ham's lectures....and they are way more interesting than a
boring textbook! :-)
What My Extra-Curricular Events Were: Piano lessons and sewing....and that was enough. Now,
I have all of my editing and writing with magazines.
Busy....at home!
What I Viewed as A Great Achievement: Finishing my 14 page Ronald Reagan research paper!
Okay, that was the bulk of what I did this year. I didn't have any "blood, sweat, and tears" like I did a few years back with Algebra :-) It was a good year this past year. I will enjoy a few weeks off, and then, I look forward to the new subjects (or actually the new books) I will get to read and learn!
Thursday, August 16, 2007
There Is More To Modesty
I wanted to share with ya'll this article/essay/entry...whatever you want to call it....that I am doing in a contest sponsored by Modest Hand Maidens. I have known about this contest for a while, but as I wasn't sure of the direction the Lord wanted me to take with this subject, I kept the guidelines on my desk...and left it. However, yesterday afternoon, I felt God's leading, and I wrote it down. So, here it is.
There is More to Modesty
As maidens, it can be very hard not to stereotype what modesty is or should be. We might look at a girl wearing capris and say, "She isn't in a skirt or dress; therefore, she isn't modest." Or we can see a long jumper and say the wearer is modest. We can make these same judgements in relation to hair, shoe height, even length of other garments. However, there is more to modesty than just dress code.
In fact, the Bible never says how long a maiden needs to wear her hair or skirts. To Christ, the dressing of a person's heart is of far greater importance than the dressing of a person's body. 1 Peter 3:3-4 read, "Do not let your adornment be merely outward--arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel--rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God." Now this verse doesn't mean a maiden cannot look nice. Esther went through beauty treatments, Ruth anointed herself before going to Boaz, and the Proverbs 31 woman was arrayed in fine linen and purple. The Lord has taken the time to mention these "styling sessions" in the Bible, so it obviously mattered to Him that we know what women wore. However, what was their heart wearing? We find Esther obeying what Mordecai and the king's eunuchs instructed. Ruth cared about Naomi's future, and the Proverbs 31 woman was the picture of servanthood and love. And when we read these women's stories, it is their character qualities that leave an impression, no in what they are clothed.
Besides 1 Peter, these are other verses that show God's instruction for maidens. Titus 2:5 is a good one. Among other exhortations, a maiden was told to be "discreet." So, by using discreet, quiet, and meek in other Bible translations, we can see the maiden is one who does not draw attention to herself. Instead, her actions speak and proclaim who she is. A young woman who might be dressed in decent, not form-fitting capris, and yet is loving, compassionate, and self denying more readily fulfills God's design than a long-skirted maiden who is harsh, lazy, and self-serving.
So, what is modesty? To me, it is a maidens who yes, has certain neckline and length requirements, but is more interested in lining up her life to God's plan and in following His path. It is hard to do the latter, perhaps even harder than finding clothes. =) Our flesh seeks to get its way and get the attention. When in a room of people, it is far easier to be the one whom everyone notices than it is to have a deep conversation with one person. It is a daily, hourly, minutely, battle to die to self, but by God's strength, we can! We have only to ask!
I am far from being a truly modest maiden. Sure, my clothes might be fine, but my heart isn't always "properly attired." Perhaps you feel the same way? I want to encourage you (as I remind myself) that the Lord is only a prayer away. When it seems so difficult to have a right attitude, or to play with a sibling when a book is beckoning us, let's cry to Him. He will take us through the "Refiner's Fire" as we humbly seek His face.
May we become maidens whose outfits, and actions, leave an indelible mark that future generations remember, just as Esther, Ruth, and Proverbs 31 do for us today. May we strife to never stereotype modesty by a person's attire anymore. May we remember there is more to modesty; may we look at the heart before we're quick to judge!
It was hard for me to not bring femininity into this. See, I wear skirts most of the time, but I don't see them as more modest than certain capris. I wear them because I want to show that I am a maiden, and skirts are a tangible way of femininity....but that's a post for another time!
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Oh, Too Many Cookies.....
I can't keep up with time. It seems to fly by so quickly.....and it is doing just that again. Well, it is "Fair Time" once more. Since the end last August, I knew what I wanted to enter this year. I wanted to improve my chocolate chip cookies (and even my cinnamon pecan icebox cookies) Plus, I discovered this fantastic recipe for Peppermint Crunch Cookies (on the back of the Andes' mint chips bag) and I wanted to enter them also. Well, even though the fair doesn't begin until Friday, you have to take your stuff Monday or today, Tuesday. I guess it is because they judge tomorrow or something. So, I had to bake my yummy treats today....and I have been ever since 10 o'clock!! =)
The thing I don't get is this. The judges only want 4 cookies, so my family gets all the rest. We get that "mound" you see. Do we really need it?! My stomach is already bugging me....I think I ate one (or two) too many....plus the dough, which I KNOW NOT to eat. Raw egg is not the most healthful thing I could put in my body =) I need to remember the scripture "everything is permissible, but not everything is beneficial!"
Friday, August 10, 2007
What Do You Think About This?
Unlike most teenagers, I enjoy reading about politics, what is going on the world. Yes, it is mostly bad, depressing things, but I want to know. I want to be informed, and not be like the typical people who do not care where their nation is heading. So, when Mom mentioned to me something she read, I was alert and curious.
Mom had read this post on Mrs. Stacy MacDonald's blog. Apparently, there is the threat of women going into the draft, if that comes back around again. This isn't the first time the threat has been there; Mr. Doug Phillips had a newsletter on the subject back in 2004. However, another VITAL election is coming up, and this is an important issue for me regarding a candidate.
Unfortunately, women have brought this "threat" upon themselves. Seriously, this post could have gone in my series, because it goes along with it very well. Since our previous generations wanted to be like men, and hold a man's position, it makes sense that the women in the draft would be another step towards doom ;-)
I support our armed forces; I believe our soldiers do a lot to protect our freedoms. However, I really do not believe women should be in the service, regardless if it means being in combat or sitting in a recruiting office. Man and woman were created with different roles. God told Eve to be a helpmeet to Adam, not go out and kill people.
So, I am going to do my homework on this. I am going to pay much attention to not only the Presidential candidates, but with my local representatives as well, to see what their thoughts are on the subject. Mostly, I will pray that the Lord would spare the judgment that comes with women in such positions (like Deborah in the Bible) However, I want to hear ya'lls opinions. What do you think about women being in the military? Do you think they should be included in the draft? Is it okay for them to be there period? Or do you have an absolute problem with it, as I do? I look forward to hearing from you! God bless!
Mom had read this post on Mrs. Stacy MacDonald's blog. Apparently, there is the threat of women going into the draft, if that comes back around again. This isn't the first time the threat has been there; Mr. Doug Phillips had a newsletter on the subject back in 2004. However, another VITAL election is coming up, and this is an important issue for me regarding a candidate.
Unfortunately, women have brought this "threat" upon themselves. Seriously, this post could have gone in my series, because it goes along with it very well. Since our previous generations wanted to be like men, and hold a man's position, it makes sense that the women in the draft would be another step towards doom ;-)
I support our armed forces; I believe our soldiers do a lot to protect our freedoms. However, I really do not believe women should be in the service, regardless if it means being in combat or sitting in a recruiting office. Man and woman were created with different roles. God told Eve to be a helpmeet to Adam, not go out and kill people.
So, I am going to do my homework on this. I am going to pay much attention to not only the Presidential candidates, but with my local representatives as well, to see what their thoughts are on the subject. Mostly, I will pray that the Lord would spare the judgment that comes with women in such positions (like Deborah in the Bible) However, I want to hear ya'lls opinions. What do you think about women being in the military? Do you think they should be included in the draft? Is it okay for them to be there period? Or do you have an absolute problem with it, as I do? I look forward to hearing from you! God bless!
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
A Thought-Provoking Quote I Read
On my birthday back in February, Mom and Dad bought me a book, entitled, Verses of Virtue, put out by Vision Forum. I try to always read books right when I get them, but that isn't always easy. I put Verses of Virtue in my bedside basket and left it for awhile. Yet two nights ago, I pulled it out. Perhaps I was having creepy thoughts or something, but I wanted to read an uplifting, encouraging, piece of literature....and I wasn't denied that wish. Then last night, I read again, and the same thing happened. I wanted to share it with you (emphasis mine though.)
Home: The Fountain-Head of Society
The household is the fountain-head of society. Both the commonwealth and the church grow out of the family. They both take their character from the family. The real seed-corn whence our republic sprang was the Christian households, which stepped forth from the cabin on the Mayflower, or which set up the family altar of the Hollander and the Huguenot on Manhattan Island or in the sunny South. All our best characters, best legislation, best institution, and best church-life were cradled in those early homes. They were the tap-root of the Republic, and of the American churches.
For one, I care but little for the government which presides at Washington in comparison with the government which rules the eight to ten millions of American homes. No administration can seriously harm us if our home-life is pure, frugal, and godly. No statesmanship or legislation can save us, if once our homes become the abodes of ignorance or the nesting-places of profligacy. The home rules the nation. If the home is demoralized it will ruin it.
There are several essentials to a good home. Wealth is not one of those essentials, for in many an abode of honest poverty contentment dwells. Out of such lowly cottages and cabins have sprung our greatest, noblest men and women. The little clapboarded farm houses of New England have been the nurseries of greatest divines, most useful philanthropists and devoted missionaries. The riches of those humble dwellings were industrious hands and praying hearts. God's Word was the light of the homestead. The Bible, the spinning-wheel, and the family altar stood side by side. The growing refinements of later years have introduced into many rural habitations the piano, the pictures, and the pile of books. But let our people see to it that the increase of culture money and refinement is not attended with any decrease of homespun frugality, domestic purity, and the fear of God.
A truly good home is not only one in which God reigns, but it must be an attractive spot. Even all the conscientious Christian parents do not seem to find this out. The result is that the theatre, the billiard-saloon, the club, the convivial party manage to "out-bid" the home, and to draw away the sons and daughters. It is too often the fault of his parents, that a sprightly boy prefers some other evening resort to the stupid or disagreeable place in which he eats and sleeps. If his home were made more attractive he would not seek the haunts of danger and depravity. And one of the surest methods of keeping out of a dram-shop, or a son out of the haunts of sin, is the "explusive power of a new affection" for their home. Everything that attracts our children to their homes is very apt to be, in the end, an attraction towards Heaven.
I thought this was very good. Whether we have a household now, or are praying for one the future, we have an obligation to fulfill. God views the family as VITALLY important to the success of the nation; we should as well. We should make our home a haven where He is praise, adored, magnified, and lifted up....and that philosophy should carry into public life.
Sunday, August 05, 2007
Time With Dad....Watching Pirates
My time with Dad is something to be treasured. Most teenagers can't stand being around their parents, let alone going out with them in public. Me, I love going places with my parents; I am proud to be seen with them.
Unfortunately, Dad and I can't do things as much as we would like. Since we have the family woodworking business, he and Garrett spend a great deal of time out in our wood shop. So, when Mom decided to go to the Boise Hawks baseball game with Garrett, Dad and I were able to do something with each other.
Now, we didn't know what to do. It is a little too hot to do an outdoor activity, and games are much more fun with four people. So, Dad decided,"Let's go see a movie." He and I are movie people....I know that isn't the greatest thing to be, but I would be lying if I said I didn't like watching a show or two. So, okay, we made the decision to see something, but what? Well, we looked online and Amazing Grace, which I had already seen, wasn't playing anymore, so we opted to see Pirates of the Caribbean 3!
I have been wanting to see that for some times, and seeing it with Dad was twice as fun. (Plus, who can beat two tickets, two small popcorns, and a 40 oz. soda for $7?) Yes, Pirates 3 was good; there was only one "part" that could have been A LOT worse...so I was okay. (However, the ending could have gone the way I would have liked :-) Yet, all in all, I enjoyed sitting in the theatre with my dad, burying my head in his shoulder if I got grossed out, and then talking about the film after all was said and done.
I want to encourage ya'll...Enjoy spending time with your parents. Don't be ashamed to be seen with them. Love the times you can spend together....even if it is just going to see a movie. Make some memories that you will remember for a long time.
Friday, August 03, 2007
Truly, Great is His Faithfulness
Great is Thy faithfulness, O God, my Father
There is no shadow of turning with Thee.
THOU CHANGEST NOT; Thy compassions they fail not.
As Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be.
Great is Thy faithfulness! Great us Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see;
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided.
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord unto me!
I owe a lot of thanks to Mrs. Beverly. When I did my latest post, I wasn't remembering my blog title and my blog "bio." I was more like, "Okay, bring on the pain....but..." I wasn't thinking of the fact that God promises to be faithful ALWAYS, in whatever situation I might find myself. Even though my situation is always changing, He never does! He promises to give me "strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow."
On my profile, I say that "wherever I am in life, and regardless of my emotions, you will be able to see the Lord high and lifted up in my blog." I don't think I did that as much as I should have. Yes, MercyMe's Bring the Rain ministered to me, but I was still feeling sorry for myself. I just need the constant reminders of who He is and what He promises. I need to remember that He is holding my life's script, and that He is faithful to see it to completion. That (the knowledge that He is in charge of the situation) needs to be "more than enough" for me.
I do want to thank ya'll for the prayers. I greatly appreciate them. I believe in the power of prayer, and it is so wonderful to be able to lift fellow believers before the Throne. I will keep ya'll posted on how the Lord leads my parents...and on how He is growing me and teaching me more and more about His Great Faithfulness!
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
Bring It On
It often is amazing what God uses to speak to me. My family has been going through a difficult time with a lot of things. Our church situation isn't getting any better; it seems to be getting worse. So, there is that and a few other problems....I feel like life is on another roller coaster. (Dad says that is basically the case with our existence :-) Yesterday, I was brought to the breaking point, and before I had a crying session, I turned on the radio. I am not usually a MercyMe fan, but their newest single, Bring the Rain, spoke volumes to me.
I can count a million times
People asking me how I
Can praise you with all that I've gone through
The question just amazes me
Can circumstances possibly
Change who I forever am in You
Maybe since my life has changed
Long before these rainy days
It's never really ever crossed my mind
To turn my back on you, oh Lord
My only shelter from the storm
But instead I draw closer through these times
So I pray
Bring me joy, bring me peace
Bring the chance to be free
Bring me anything the brings You glory
And I know there'll be days
When this life brings me pain
But if that's what it takes to praise You
Jesus, bring the rain
I am Yours regardless of
The dark clouds that may loom above
Because You are much greater than my pain
You who made a way for me
By suffering Your destiny
So tell me what's a little rain
This song brought tears to my eyes. I was so convicted of my feelings and thoughts I had been having. I want to be like Christ and to bring Him glory. However, pain is often a big way for that to happen. Thus, even though I would rather have things easy and a cake walk, I care about developing my character more. So, Lord, bring on the pain; You promised to give me the strength and grace to handle it.
I would appreciate your prayers for my family and myself. Please pray that God would guide my parents to the decisions that need to be made. Also, pray that the Lord would be glorified in what is going on. I want Him to grow me more and more into the likeness of Himself!
Monday, July 30, 2007
My Western Life Coming Out :-)
Okay, I meant to do this a while ago. Yet with Uncle Scott's visit, and Blogger not working at the time, I could not post pictures of the rodeo we went to July 17th. Since I have spent the majority of my live in the South (though it's getting to not be that way anymore) I am more like a Southern belle. I probably am much more at home reading a book and sipping iced tea than I would be roping cattle. Now, I applaud those who do such things, and I can enjoy watching "The Western Lifestyle" that is pretty big this side of the Mighty Mississippi. So, for the second year, my family has attended the Snake River Stampede! It truly is a lot of fun. My favorite event, which we didn't get pictures of, was the Snake River Stampeders. Girls and horses decked out in lights doing figure eights and things. It's neat. However, there also was:
bronco bustin'
And more bronco bustin'
And the steer roping, which I do not like. How would you like to be clothes-lined and then thrown to the ground...only to get you feet tied!
Yeah!! He got away!!
There were chuckwagon races. (Probably it is only done here in Idaho)
And then, the big event: the bull riding. (Okay, this picture is fuzzy. Let's try another one.)
Okay, this one was better. So, that is the gist of the rodeo. It was fun, and we will go again next year! God bless ya'll! :-)
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Redeeming the Times
It is hard being a young woman today. Let's use a simple deduction process: You are a Christian homeschooler (the group probably gets cut in half,) one who isn't dating (slightly smaller) and tries to dress modestly and femininely (gets even smaller) and for the defining moment...staying home in her father's house until marriage as opposed to college. If you try to figure it out, probably only a tenth of girls, if that, go into this "circle." I find that so sad! What used to be the vast majority is now a small minority.
Mom likes to say," What is considered normal today wasn't considered as such until around fifty years ago!" She's right. However, while I don't know the exact date of the change, I do know where to place the blame. It is we women who are responsible for what we have now. Yes, the lack of gentlemen, the drastic changes in dress, feminism....it is all thanks to us.
Genesis 3:16 reads,"...And though your desire will be for your husband, he will be your master." My translation can also read, "And though you may desire to control your husband." Well, women didn't like that! So, over a period of decades and centuries, women began to change things. Slowly, women began working outside the home, began desiring to be viewed like a man and so began dressing as one. Now, we have a full fledged feminist movement.
I don't want to appear as one who holds its gender in low esteem. It is SO EASY to listen to the voice of Evil and follow its sugar-coated lies. That is just what my previous generations did. Yet as with Adam and Eve, one's sins and mistakes can affect all of mankind. God, in His death, made available the ability to confess our sins, turn from them, and try to change out lifestyles.
God has placed a desire in my heart to redeem my time and bring back Biblical Womanhood. Would you join me? We will be considered weird, for the voice of feminism is loud and its ideals far reaching. Yet "God bless you who are hated and excluded and mocked and cursed because you are identified with me, the Son of Man. When that happens, rejoice! Yes, leap for joy! For a great reward awaits you in Heaven." (Luke 6:22-23) I want to redeem the times for my future generations.
It might appear that I will be making baby steps in changing the world. However, God can use anything, big or small, for His glory. I choose to leave, with God's help, godly "footsteps in the sand," marks to guide my children and their children in the way of femininity and grace, However, may they be footsteps that always point to the Savior!
Intro, Part 1 , Part 2, Part 3
Mom likes to say," What is considered normal today wasn't considered as such until around fifty years ago!" She's right. However, while I don't know the exact date of the change, I do know where to place the blame. It is we women who are responsible for what we have now. Yes, the lack of gentlemen, the drastic changes in dress, feminism....it is all thanks to us.
Genesis 3:16 reads,"...And though your desire will be for your husband, he will be your master." My translation can also read, "And though you may desire to control your husband." Well, women didn't like that! So, over a period of decades and centuries, women began to change things. Slowly, women began working outside the home, began desiring to be viewed like a man and so began dressing as one. Now, we have a full fledged feminist movement.
I don't want to appear as one who holds its gender in low esteem. It is SO EASY to listen to the voice of Evil and follow its sugar-coated lies. That is just what my previous generations did. Yet as with Adam and Eve, one's sins and mistakes can affect all of mankind. God, in His death, made available the ability to confess our sins, turn from them, and try to change out lifestyles.
God has placed a desire in my heart to redeem my time and bring back Biblical Womanhood. Would you join me? We will be considered weird, for the voice of feminism is loud and its ideals far reaching. Yet "God bless you who are hated and excluded and mocked and cursed because you are identified with me, the Son of Man. When that happens, rejoice! Yes, leap for joy! For a great reward awaits you in Heaven." (Luke 6:22-23) I want to redeem the times for my future generations.
It might appear that I will be making baby steps in changing the world. However, God can use anything, big or small, for His glory. I choose to leave, with God's help, godly "footsteps in the sand," marks to guide my children and their children in the way of femininity and grace, However, may they be footsteps that always point to the Savior!
Intro, Part 1 , Part 2, Part 3
Sunday, July 22, 2007
My Weekend Thus Far
"Then God said,' Let the land burst forth with every sort of grass and seed-bearing plant. And let there be trees that grow seed-bearing fruit. The seeds will then produce the kind of plants and trees from which they came.' And so it was....And God saw that it was good."We have had a wonderful time with Uncle Scott so far; the visit has gone way better than I anticipated. He came in on Wednesday night, actually ahead of schedule. Isn't that rare? However, we didn't get home until 11:00 or thereabouts....and we left to go to McCall around 9 the next morning.
God is so good; He does far more than we anticipate. As we have been having so many fire in Idaho, I thought we would have a lot of smoke. Yet up until yesterday, smoke was a non issue. We had spectacular views!
(The photo isn't smoke; Garrett tweaked the color, I think it is cool.)
(Garrett's camera also has good zoom. These rich houses were on the other side of the lake. I will admit, they have a beautiful view!)
As usual, they guys did a ton of fishing. Unfortunately, for Uncle Scott (and Dad and Garrett) only two fish were caught....and Uncle didn't get them. So, for the time in McCall, they didn't have much to show for it. Mom and I, on the other hand, read a lot of books. (I finished Wives and Daughters and Mozart's Sister.)Though we don't have any pictures of it, we took a drive up to Brundage Mountain, the ski resort in McCall. It was really nice up there. It was then that we could see plumes of smoke, evidence that there were fires around.
I have done something during Uncle Scott's visit that I have never done before. I went to a bike race in downtown Boise. Personally, I don't care if I go ever again; it's a lot like Nascar. However, it is what my uncle is into, and I wanted to spend time with him and the guys....since they were going camping the next day.
So, that's the current status of everyone. All of the guys are at Bruneau Dunes State Park, trying their hand at catching the bass. (Normally, there is a lot of success, but McCall is usually that way too. I guess we'll find out when they get home.) As for Mom and me, well, it's Girl's Night/Day. We went to church this morning and ate at P.F. Chang's for lunch (their lettuce wraps are sooo good.) For the rest of our time together, we are watching girly movies, Sense and Sensibility among them, and going to the tea room tomorrow. Oh, I love spending time with my Mom!!! I hope you liked knowing about my weekend. I did think about ya'll a lot; you can ask Mom!! God bless!!
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Not The Post I Wanted To Do!
I am really disappointed: I was trying to post pictures of the rodeo my family went to last night. However, you know Blogspot...there is always an error. Under normal circumstances, I would sit around on the computer forever if need be, but I don't have the time for that today. My uncle is coming for a visit; his plane is arriving late this evening. I am looking forward to seeing him, since it has been three years. I have still so much to do...I have made cookies and dusted some of the rooms, but there are still bathrooms, more rooms, packing...busy!!We are heading up into the mountains to go camping, and then Mom and I will be having a girl night on Sunday to Monday.
So, this is the way I will do things. I will be off the computer for the weekend, and then, when I come back, I will post pictures of the time in McCall. Probably after Uncle Scott leaves, and after I have done pictures of our fun, that is when I will talk all about our Snake River Stampede fun!
I will be praying for all of you while I am away. I will greatly miss posting on here, but I will be thinking of you!! Have a fabulous weekend! God bless!!
So, this is the way I will do things. I will be off the computer for the weekend, and then, when I come back, I will post pictures of the time in McCall. Probably after Uncle Scott leaves, and after I have done pictures of our fun, that is when I will talk all about our Snake River Stampede fun!
I will be praying for all of you while I am away. I will greatly miss posting on here, but I will be thinking of you!! Have a fabulous weekend! God bless!!
Monday, July 16, 2007
May God Get the Glory
Treasure of Jesus, by Steven Curtis Chapman
What can I do
How can I live
To show my world
The treasure of Jesus
What will it take
What could I gain
So they can know
The treasure He is
And if I can sing
Let my songs be full of His glory
If I can speak
Let my words be full of His grace
And if I should live or die
Let me be found pursuing this prize
The One that alone satisfies
The treasure of Jesus
I have always had this love for writing. Ever since I was little, I was writing stories, and when asked what I was going to be when I grew up, I said, "a writer and a mom."
However, I am a firm believer in lining our beliefs and plans up with God's. He, after all, is the director of our lives; He already has our life's script written out for us. Well, he has transformed my desires and I pray for the better.
After I went through the traumatic losing/misplacing of my story notebook where I had my ninety page novel, I really began to wonder if writing was what I was supposed to do. I was content with the fact that God had other ideas. Perhaps it is when we let our dreams die that the Lord has room to work.
I think God still has writing in store for me, but not in a fiction realm. Not only has it been harder to recreate the story I lost, or even come up with new ideas, the Lord has brought non-fiction opportunities into my path. I have been able to write an article for HopeChest Magazine, plus working with them in a position. I am praying about sending in a motherhood poem to Above Rubies and it appears as if another magazine is coming into my life. I am really excited about all of it.
However, it makes me want to be even more diligent to always give God the glory. He has given each of us talents, like Paul wrote in one of the New Testament books. Therefore, we ought to use them to glorify Him!
So, may ya'll realize that though the Lord might not use your abilities in the way you originally thought, ultimately it will be even better than you possibly could've imagined! To God be the Glory...and great things you will do!
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