Antonio Vivaldi's "Four Seasons...." and My Backyard

In order to achieve the full effect, click on this link. Hopefully, y'all have Windows Media Player on your computers, so you can minimize the song and listen to it as you read what I have to say.

Currently in my musical appreciation study, I am on the life of Antonio Vivaldi. Not much is known about the early Baroque composers, yet Vivaldi's legacy has been preserved in his well known concerto "The Four Seasons." It's familiar to all of us--albeit certain movements more so than others.Right now, the weather here is like Vivaldi's Largo Movement from "Autumn." For those of you not familiar with music terminology, largo means "slow." Even slower than andante....which is usually the slowest I play.As I listened to the recording upstairs, I thought of my backyard. I could just picture leaves falling down, the world slowly down, everything getting situated for a transition period. Photosynthesis is no longer being produced; winter is about to settle on the land.Life for me has been one of transition this year. I am thankful it doesn't happen nearly as often as it does in Creation. Some days, I can feel just like the "Largo Movement:" slowly getting ready for the changes ahead. Graduation was only one of them. They are all good, though.Yet, Vivaldi's compostion is more than just "Autumn." "Spring"is probably the most well known of the entire piece. My back yard is more than brown leaves and barren trees. My life is more than transition and waiting. But they all have their place. There is something to be loved and found in each of them.

Hopefully, you enjoy listening to the movement. Why don't you listen to the whole concerto when you get a chance?! =)

A New Weekly Feature

My mom does something on her blog that I am going to implement. Every Friday or Saturday, she posts reviews of some old classic movies. In today's society, it is so hard to find decent things that the whole family can watch.....or so I thought. If you go back fifty, sixty, even seventy years it's a piece of cake! Our family has grown to love many new genres and many of the iconic screen legends.

However, I want input from all of you. Is there something specific you would like me to start with? Like a particular genre that you want me to highlight: Musicals, War, Gangster, Dramas, Comedies, Suspense and Mysteries....... Or is that one actor or actress that you want me to focus on: Humphrey Bogart, James Stewart, Cary Grant, Frank Sinatra, Ginger Rogers, Doris Day, and so many more I could go one forever. =)

I know many of you love musicals, but is that what you want first? Give me suggestions and I will get a schedule all ramped up. I'll start Friday! Looking forward to hearing from y'all!

What's Your Favorite......and Your Least Favorite?

Books have been on my mind today. It has been about a week since I started my after high school studies up, so I have been reading my books on herbal medicine and music appreciation. While herbal medicine contains a lot of words I have to look up for their pronunciations, music is simple and something that I am making more in depth. Both are doing their part in increasing my knowledge.

But then, there's Dickens. I won't deny that there are times when I think about putting "Our Mutual Friend" down. After all, I am only on page 210 out of 819. And it's due in like three weeks after having been renewed the maximum amount. (But lest you think I am a slow reader.....I had other things come up.) Right now, I am planning in doing the hard thing and sticking with it. The movie adaptation is just as good though for anyone who wants to be exposed to this novel....and it's less wordy.

All that to say is I've been wondering about y'all. What has been a book that you could NOT put down? Of late, the books that did that for me were "The Zion Covenant Series" by Brock and Bodie Thoene and the "The Pemberley Chronicle Series" by Rebecca Ann Collins. They aren't necessarily in my favorites category, but they brought hours of enjoyment. Sure, they weren't meaty, but sometimes, you need some "fluff."

Yet, what has been the worst book you have ever read? Either one you did put down or one that you wanted to SO much. Dickens is not quite there yet. Bu I have read two of the worst books ever. The Red Badge of Courage, by Stephen Crane I had to read for school....and hated it the whole time. It's depressing and morose and why is it considered a must read is beyond me. I also disliked All Quiet on the Western Front immensely. It also was depressing and morose, but as it was something I had to read........

What about you? I would like to know about the books that have had positive...and negative...reactions in your life!

The Real Blogger Award

Courtesy of my loving mother, I have received the Marie Antoinette Real Blogger Award. Now, why in the world it is called that, I have ZERO idea.....nor does she. This award means a great deal more than you realize. Mom knows how I long to be real in what I say and write here. I never want to hide what is going through my head, mind, and heart. Anyway, she passed it on to me, and now, I am passing it on to three of you.

**Disclaimer**This does not mean I don't think all of your blogs are lovely and "real." Certain lovely thoughts come to my mind when I ready certain lovely blogs. All of you are different; that's a good thing! =) Anyway, I also thought I should limit. But hey, I could always make an award up.

First, I give this award to Kaysie. I have had the pleasure of getting to know her through her blog and occasional e-mails. It doesn't take much to see her heart in the posts that she writes. She doesn't hide her struggles and doubts; she makes it a point for you to know that she sheds tears. But then, she is just as real in how she magnifies the Lord. I love reading Kaysie's stuff. Oftentimes, we have the same thoughts and emotions.

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Second, I award Jessica. To know why I award Jessica, you have to have a glimpse into my past. (Creepy, isn't it?! =)

For a time, the Lord had us a part of a Church that was very legalistic in nature. You were constantly made to feel you were sinning if you listened to things other than hymns, or if you watched certain movies, or if you did things that weren't necessarily feminine. When we were led to leave, there was pain (because leaving is never easy) But with that pain also came a new sense of freedom. God showed where I had given in to subtle legalism by hiding who I really was. So, now....I feel able to listen to Josh Groban. I can watch movies (provided they line up with my standards) I can enjoy rooting for sports teams. I cannot begin to tell you how liberating it is!!

So, how does this apply to Jessica? Well, she and her family are very strong Christians....and yet they aren't sticks in the mud. They like to dance. They listen to music other than hymns and watch movies (Jessica loves musicals like I do.) She doesn't hide who she is. That means a lot to me, especially after all I have been through.

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Lastly, I give Jasmine this award. Everything I said about Jessica applies to Jasmine and her family. I love it. But Jasmine also writes about the hard things and what her beliefs and convictions are. All throughout the election, she didn't back down from her stance/belief in Chuck Baldwin. And boy, she could care less if you agree with her or not!

This three fellow sisters in Christ have meant a lot to me. Y'all have. But for those of you who I didn't award (except in my heart) I would encourage you to check these blogs out. Meet and be encouraged by some "real" people.

15 Things I'm Not Afraid to Admit

Believe it or not, my dear mother tagged me! Yes, she has a blog, but I am not going to link to her right at the moment. Yet that's beside the point. SHE TAGGED ME!!!! Doesn't she know that I find these things difficult. Oh well.

I am to list 15 things I am not afraid to admit and then, I will tag the rest of you! Especially those of you who thrive on these things =) You probably won't discover anything new.....but that is they way things are. I don't find myself that interesting of a person; others are much more so.

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1.) I'm not afraid to admit that I don't have it all together. I never for the world want to send the message that I am a perfect model of how Christian womanhood should be. I really hate reading blogs, articles, or books that appear to have perfection. I want to let people know, it's all about grace day after day.

2.)I'm not afraid to admit that I have stuck a bead up my nose. Yes, you read that right. When I was six, I stuck a bead up my nose. And an obstetrician had to get it out with tweezers. Sometimes, I wish I had kept the blasted thing. For conversation's sake.

3.) I'm not afraid to admit that I once bit someone. Yes, you read that right as well. I will always remember the day. A "friend" of mine kept on singing the K-I-S-S-I-N-G song about me and a friend of mine. Well, after asking her to stop several times and her not heeding me, I bit her. Right on the arm. I think I drew blood. We weren't great friends to begin with (we didn't even like each other....but it's a long story) Only this made it worse.

4.) I'm not afraid to admit that I dance with imaginary partners in my bedroom. I don't really know how to dance. I only try to imitate what I watch on movies. So I think I am pretty good at the waltz. I expect that bubble to be broken one day =)

5.) I'm not afraid to admit that I listen to sports talk radio as I do exercising. I could rattle of the people I listen to, but since you don't know them....I won't.

6.) I'm not afraid to admit that I have been reading ESPN and BCS polls a lot these days. Got to see where my Broncos are fitting into the Bowl season.

7.) I'm not afraid to admit that I have over 100 books in my personal library. That figure isn't counting the books on our book shelf downstairs. It's MY books. I've read almost all of them. But yes, most of them are fiction.

8.) I'm not afraid to admit that I don't care for Dickens too much. I am reading "Our Mutual Friend" right now (and that's going well.) I have also read "A Christmas Carol" (but since I know that story, that read was fine.) Yet I tried "A Tale of Two Cities" once.....I only got to page 3.

9.) I'm not afraid to admit that I haven't tackled Shakespeare. That's right--a homeschooler who doesn't think highly of the guy. He's a little too wordy. Though I will "do hard things" and try him this year sometime.

10.) I'm not afraid to admit that I have a fear of stairs with holes in them. I think I will fall through.

11.) I'm not afraid to admit that I listen to other music BESIDES Christian music. Frank Sinatra is always on in our home. My CD player has the soundtrack from "Enchanted" and Celtic Woman on. I can't wait until I pull out Josh Groban's Christmas CD.

12.) I'm not afraid to admit that my best friends have been met in the confines of the internet. And my parents approve of each of them

13.) I'm not afraid to admit that I hate flying in airplanes. Should events happen in the next year that I need to go to, I would much rather live closer so I could drive....or even take a train. I hate takeoffs and landings especially.

14.) I'm not afraid to admit that I give a running commentary during movies. If ever y'all watch a movie with me, expect me to say something. I can't shut up, no matter how much Garrett would wish me too. I always make a retort about something whether I tell Anne Shirley for the upteenth millionth time that she is so stupid to reject Gilbert Blythe or something else. I even give a running commentary to the news. Just ask my family how many times I got angry with NBC for stereotyping me this year. =)

15.) I'm not afraid to admit that I love cooking. I go into baking spree mode a lot! It hasn't popped up this week, but it will, I am sure.

Alright, how much of that did you NOT know? Hopefully, I will discover more about y'all.

Jasmine
Julia
Miriam
Neesie
Kaysie
Jessica
Alice
Madison........you're all it!!

Saving a Saul

Despondency and depression is everywhere these days. Almost the minute Barack Obama was elected, many people took the attitude "Oh, great. We're living in the End Times. Life is going to be tough and terrible!!" For a few moments, and during John McCain's concession speech, I had the same thoughts spinning through my head. But get the phrase "a few moments." I am better now. Why? Because the Lord brought one of the greatest conversion stories to my mind.

Meanwhile, Saul was uttering threats with every breath. He was eager to destory the Lord's followers, so he went to the high priest. He requested letters addressed to the synagogues in Damascus, asking their cooperation in the arrest of any followers of the Way he found there. He wanted to bring them--both men and women--back to Jerusalem in chains.

As he was nearing Damascus on this mission, a brilliant light from heaven suddenly beamed down upon him! He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?"...........

Saul stayed with the believers in Damascus for a few days. And immediately he began preaching about Jesus in the synagogues saying, "He is indeed the Son of God!"

All who heard him were amazed. "Isn't this the same man who persecuted Jesus' followers with such devastation in Jerusalem?" they asked. "And we understand that he came here to arrest them and take them in chains to the leading priests."

Saul's preaching became more and more powerful and the Jews in Damascus couldn't refute his proofs that Jesus was indeed the Messiah.~Acts 9:1-4, 19-22

To the early Christians, Saul of Tarsus certainly looked like the greatest villian of all time. Just as Barack Obama appears to us today. But to the Lord, Saul was a soul worth saving; his reputation didn't stand in God's way. Consequently, Saul became Paul, one of our Christian patriarchs who endured much for the sake of the Father he once condemned.

Who are we to say that the Lord cannot do the same to President-Elect Obama? Sure it looks impossible to our fleshly nature that Obama can change. His reputation precedes him. But I am not going to put the Lord in a box. For all I know, the Lord's plan before the beginning of time could have been to RADICALLY change Obama's heart and have him at the helm of this nation. That Obama would end up doing what he could to reverse Roe vs. Wade, defining marriage, etc. I don't know, but I am praying towards those ends.

I would encourage you to be praying for Barack Obama as he enters 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. The Lord has given the United States him for a reason, so we had better stop griping and moaning about it. With God, ALL THINGS, even changing a seemingly unchangeable man, IS possible.

I Regret Nothing

A new day has dawned but yesterday remains the same. I didn't wake up to hear that states had been called way too prematurely or that there were chads hanging around. Barack Obama is still the presumptive 44th President of the United States. My state still went for McCain by a 62% to 36% margin. My Senate seat will remain in Republican hands. (Both of our Senators are Republican--only one seat was up for election.) And unfortunately, I just discovered that my U.S. House seat was taken by a Democrat and not our Conservative incumbent.

Geepers!! I live in a Democratic district now!!

But one thing remains the same as well. I do not regret anything I did yesterday.

I do not regret casting a ballot for McCain and Palin.

I do not regret voting for Jim Risch over Larry Larocco in the Senate Race.

I do not regret voting for Bill Sali over Walt Minnick--even though Sali lost.

My conscience is clear before God.

I was in the minority a great deal this election. I defied the pollsters and voting blocs as a first time voting young woman. Two of my candidates are not returning to Washington. (Well, that's not quite true: McCain is still a Senator from Arizona.) I have a different reason for why Obama was elected and it has nothing to do with what everyone is saying. It wasn't about race; it was Bush, Bush, Bush and Republican, Republican, Republican.

A new morning hasn't given me any new answers as to "Why." The answers are the same as they were at 9:00 MST. God is sovereign, He is in control, and He has a reason as to why Barack Obama will be this Nation's next leader. I do not regret that if it leads to the Lord being raised up, Christians getting more involved, the United States humbling themselves before God. I believe that God will protect his own--even though it does look freaky. But I am doing better.

Getting to do my part by voting, even for the losers and underdogs, has only whet my appetite to do it again. 2012 will find me not only voting, but getting more involved in campaigning for the candidates I believe in.

If that means I am helping the underdog.....I won't regret it.

If that means losing anyway.....I won't regret it.

If that means doing all I can to get Obama out of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.....then I am all for it.

Living in the United States of America is certainly not dull. History can change with each election. And I can play a part. So can you.

Absolutely, Positively, Without a Doubt FED UP!!!

Update: None of you have commented yet, but this should be updated. So, it's official. Yes, God is sovereign, but I am depressed. The tears have come. Life certainly looks bleak for these next four years. My voting for the woman didn't do anything. Those of you who were against her, you won't have to deal with her.

We've got our first black president. Yes, that is momentous. I wish people realized what this means in addition to history being made.

My U.S. House Seat isn't looking that great, either. Boy, how I wish I had gotten involved.

The clock is ticking. Four years....and I get to vote Obama out of office. I am definitely doing my part in 2012.

But you can read my thoughts from earlier in the evening:

Live blogging right now as I watch all of this election stuff unfold. I wish I could say I was pleased and interested with what I am seeing--but I am not! Things aren't looking good. God is sovereign, so I know He knows what He is doing--but there is my flesh which says "How is this good? Why?"

I could be wrong. I'd like to think so. But look at the map.

But am I only fed up with how things are looking? No, I am not. I live in a very conservative family, but since we don't have cable, we aren't in that camp that watches Fox News. I have grown up watching NBC. The people are familiar faces. But if things are supposed to be unbiased, they sure aren't!!! All I am hearing about is the African-American vote and how it will change the face of things.

Now, lest you think I am anti-black, white supremest, I want you to read this post by my dear friend, Jasmine. She's black and it sums up my thoughts and feelings totally. I would love a black president. Just not this one with his policies and stances.

Palin isn't getting coverage. I know she's a touchy subject, but I do like her. Why am I not hearing more the potential of a female vice president? When Hillary was campaigning, that was all we heard about.

And I am sick of being stereotyped. This young voter did not vote for Obama. Getting health care given to me by the government wasn't my top issue. This girl voted for McCain. The Supreme Court was my top issue. And I am proud of it.

Okay, I think I am angry enough. Sadly, all Obama needs to take the presidency is California and something else. Think he's going to do it....at this point any way. May God have mercy on us.

If My People....

"What if the armies of the Lord

Picked up and dusted off their swords

Vowed to set the captives free

And not let Satan have one more.

What if the church, for Heaven's sake,

Finally stepped up to the plate

Took a stand upon God's promise

And stormed Hell's rusty gates

What if His people prayed

And those who bare his name

Would only seek His face

And turn from their own way.

And what would happen if we prayed

For those raised up to lead the way

Then maybe kids in school could pray

And unborn children see light of day

What if the light that we pursue

Came from a hunger for the truth

What if the family turned to Jesus

Stopped asking Oprah what to do."

Father God, this song by Casting Crowns reminds me of 2 Chronicles 7:14: "The if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from Heaven and will forgive their sins and heal their land." Oh, how desperately we are in need of healing! We, as a Nation, have turned so far from you. In all honesty, we deserve your judgment.

You are absolutely sovereign; since the world began, you knew what the outcome of November 4th, 2008 would be. The candidate who will be elected will not take you by surprise--and he will fulfill your purposes and plans....whether we like him or not.

Yet, Father, I come before you on behalf of our nation. And I ask that you would extend mercy to us. WE know what we deserve. But at the cross, you didn't give us what we did deserve (which was your judgment and eternal damnation.) Rather, you gave us grace and mercy

.

So much is at stake, Lord. You know that. There are our basic freedoms....and that isn't mentioning things like abortion, marriage, and not becoming a Socialist nation. While I know I have no reason to fear, for you are in control, I will admit that I can be afraid of what appears to be.

All I can do tomorrow is get out and vote as you have guided me. The rest is in your hands and I KNOW, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that you will keep and preserve that which you want. Mortals can only do so much. You alone are God.

The rest of you----PRAY!! And if you can, VOTE!!!

In Total Agreement on This Particular Issue

My friend Jasmine and I agree on basically everything. Okay, so maybe we don't agree on who to vote for Tuesday, but we have genuine respect for each other....which helps make up for our differences. But while reading her latest post today, I found myself nodding my head in agreement with everything she said.

Read it here. And then come back and listen to my own thoughts.

I can flip flop on many things. Indeed, as the Lord grows me and changes me, I find that my opinions and standards change right along with them. Things that I once thought were okay, I don't necessarily anymore. But I never talked about going to skirts all the time. I am all about dressing femininely and with beauty. For my friend, Anna, that can mean wearing skirts and dresses exclusively. For me, it is something entirely different.

Wearing a skirt or dress does make one feel feminine. All I have to do is put on my 40's dress and twirl in it to realize how wonderful it is! But there was a time when I did think pants were a no-no if you wanted to be thought a woman into femininity and Biblical Womanhood. I never took the plunge, but boy, if someone was coming over who I wanted to impress, the skirt would come on quick as a flash! And no one would ever know =)

But the Lord has freed me from that bondage to legalism. It is not in the Bible "Thou shalt only wear skirts." I sort of stuck it in there myself. Until the Lord showed me that beauty comes from the heart, that femininity can be expressed in many ways. Including the wearing of pants.

Now, don't get me wrong. I am all about modesty and femininity. Skirts are the primary staple in my wardrobe. I love my 40's dress. (Though they don't exactly work in 30 degree weather--you get rather cold.) But in the names of modesty and keeping covered what should be covered, we can border on frumpiness and not being polished. Because [looking around] we are made to believe that polish and class somehow are connected with sexiness and feminism.

Big lie!

The Lord made us women and there is a balance between keeping covered what needs to be--and yet not hiding that we are women. I am still trying to find where that is. But one thing I do is I always have a feminine twist. With jeans, I try to wear pretty tops and not a grubby t-shirt. I usually wear heels like open toed sandals or my black pumps (which I just love =) with anything I wear. Mom is a big help when it comes to this. She too has had an interesting jounrey in this dressing issue (and I am sure she will share it in a comment.)

Never will I condemn a girl who wears skirts all the time. Provided she doesn't make it a legalistic issue, I don't have a problem with the way the Lord has directed her. IN fact, if given a choice between skirts all the time or pants all the time, I would take the more feminine way. But the Lord has me in a different camp right now. He wants me to mostly have skirts in my closet--yet jeans handy as well. God wants me to promote a feminine lifestyle in how I dress.

But never neglecting the heart first and foremost!

My Crazy Wonderful Family

Most eighteen year olds want nothing to do with their blood relations. I am not talking about those who read my blog. Y'all are different; you are weird, different rather, and not into the whole adolescence thing.....like me. =) Anyway, girls would rather talk on the phone all evening, go out with boyfriend after boyfriend, aimlessly walk around the mall with girlfriends....anything to be away from the family that embarrasses them, the family that shames them, the family they want to avoid at all costs.

Let's just say that I am not that way.

Garrett and I share a unique bond with our parents. They are our best friends. We love to do things with them, be seen with them. We are proud of them. Now, don't get me wrong, I have some of the greatest friends in the world. If distance were no object, I would do a lot of things with them. (But distance is an issue.....so I can't.) This factor has given me the opportunity to grow, serve, and learn among those I will have for the rest of my life. Hate to tell the majority of the world, but try as hard as you like.....you can't change who you are related to. So get used to it and enjoy it.

I certainly do.

It would be hard for me to limit myself to the one thing I love most about my family. There are so many things. Each comes as a result of the special trademark God gave each of us. But of late, one of my favorite things is the "different" way we can do dinners and events.

Right now, Garrett is recuperating from some surgery he had. As he is basically living downstairs, our usual routines are anything but usual. We aren't eating at the table; thus we aren't doing our family devotions (Individual ones are sufficing for now.) But Mom is certainly making the dinner hour fun and different. Not every day, but some days.

It's the World Series....or will be Game 5 once again whenever this weather in Philadelphia gets better. I know most of you aren't sports fans, but my family is. Especially Garrett as it relates to baseball. So, we on Saturday, we had a theme dinner. We're rooting for Philadelphia (despite the fact that we lived in Florida, we are NOT rooting for Tampa Bay.) Can anyone guess what we ate?

Think really hard....Philadelphia.....Baseball....find some connections.

Okay, I will tell you. We had Philly cheese steaks, cracker jacks, and peanuts. Mom spread towels on the floor, so we got to throw the shells on them. We were rather messy, but it is so fun! Actually, when it comes to sports themes, we do it a lot. Earlier in the year, we had New York style cheesecake and pizza (for New York). In January of 2007, Boise State was in the Fiesta Bowl--we had Tostitos chips and tacos. Should Boise State go to another BCS bowl game, we will come up with a theme for that too.

November 4th will have a theme dinner too....Care to take any guesses?

I hope my love for family comes through in this post. That was the real reason I did it. I am not saying you should come up with theme dinners (though you should try it sometime.) Today, I want you to think of the thing you like best about your family.....or the craziest things you have done....or both. And then share them with me. It is bound to put a smile on your face and make you thankful to the Lord for making your life so special.

Some Glimpses of Autumn

I don't know how many of you see the pictures on my photography/ nature blog, so I thought I would share what autumn looks like here. I can't take credit for the photos; Dad wanted to use my camera! =)

Okay, the wagon.....these were taken at the botanical gardens and several gardens within are themes. One is a western theme, so....hence the wagon.

This isn't quite the shot I want yet. It's the view of where I live--from higher up. But I am not as high as I want to be and the trees aren't quite yet there either.

chrysanthemums--a typical fall flower

And my new profile picture. Looks more summery than anything, but I liked it.

Hope you all enjoyed the photos. The Lord has His paints out!! Go and see what it is like in your area.

12 Things I Have Learned

Yes, I am doing another tag post. While Kaysie officially tagged me, many of my other readers did the same thing on their blog. I am to list six things I have learned in the last year. So, I am going to do some serious things and some silly things Are you ready?

1.) The Lord never gives up on me. His grace never fails; His faithfulness never ends.

2.) Sometimes all you have is strength for that particular minute of the day, yet Christ is right there to extend His strength for another minute. The trial might not fade away--but His love won't either.

3.) We only can see the small pieces of our life's puzzle. We don't know how it will all connect or what the picture will look like. But the Artist does.

4.) There can be more than one way to a decision. And that doesn't mean one is right or wrong. God guides consciences differently for everybody.

5.) While I have big character flaws, I also have little hidden ones that reveal their ugly head. I should fix those as well. Small cracks damage the structure just as much as obvious issues.

6.) I am a work in progress. The Lord is never done shaping me, perfecting me, molding me into the woman of God He ordained me to be.

7.) That the Lord gives you siblings in other places. While the don't take the place of family, they hold a special place in your heart.

8.) I have a whole new set of adventures awaiting me now that I have graduated.

The less serious things I have learned.....

1.) I know all nine starting positions on both the Boston Red Sox and the Philadelphia Phillies. Comes from living in a home where the brother lives and breathes baseball. Besides, it is playoff season.

2.) That my family is BIG into old classic movies.

3.) You can teach sewing to yourself. It's not as great as having a teacher right there, but Dads are willing assistants.

4.) I have discovered that playing NCAA 08 on an XBOX 360 is a lot harder than I thought it would be.

Alright, if any one is left untagged....and wants to do it.....it is yours!

My Blog Colors

When I was hunting for a new template, color schemes and their potential spiritual significance was the furthest thing from my mind. I was too busy looking for something classy; I had my hands full dealing with html codes, switching basic templates, finding things that worked, etc. So, when this one worked out perfectly....and I liked it.....I thought everything was good to go.

Then the Lord showed me a lesson in the colors I had chosen. And it fit my new name, "All Because of Grace." My colors are black, red, and white. One of the songs I sang a lot during my younger years came to mine. My heart was black as sin until the Savior came in. His precious blood I know has washed me white as snow.

If not for the grace God showed me at Calvary, I would still be as black as midnight. But his hands and feet ran red for me. Because of this, and not due to anything I have done, I have been made white in his sight. I no longer have a blemish. Though I fail day after day after day, God doesn't take his grace away.

Just something the Father has reminded me of time and again lately. I can easily take it for granted; I might not pay attention. But the Lord can use anything, even a blog template, to remind me of who I am.....and who He is.

Scrapbooking

Since I am currently on break from my studies, I am finding time to do things I never get to do. For instance, Mom and I are occasionally watching movies in the middle of the day (That never happens!) I am getting to catch up on reading; I have been posting much more than I usually do. I have been able to go out into the craft room and work on my sewing, as well as another pastime.

Most girls have been scrapbooking much longer than I have been. In fact, Mom was the one doing my scrapbook. But with all the moves we have had, our things never got out of boxes. They are now, yet I thought it would be fun to take over and do things with my own personal spin. So, I have decided to work backwards--I am doing current events and will slowly get back to my early years.

If you lived near me, I would share a cup of tea (or coffee, whichever you prefer) and show you what I have done. But since that isn't possible, I will post my few pages on here. I only have a few; scrapbooking takes patience and precision and I want it to be the best it can be.

This is one of my more "earlier pages." Since the paper says "Generations and Families are Forever," I made it with pictures of family members. One is four generations of females on Mom's side. One is my family with all of Mom's family (her parents and brother) One is my family picture. One is of myself and Garrett. Another is of Garrett and I with our paternal grandparents. And the last is of Garrett and I with our cousins.

Back in 2007, Dad and I went to a Boise State football game. Well, finding paper and decals is easy. I am really happy with this page and now I have a place for the tickets. You can't see the scoreboard picture that well, but BSU did win. =)

In the pages Mom has done, she has the beginning of each school year with some of our favorite things from that year. This is 12th grade. It is pretty simply, and you cannot see the writing on this picture. But I like the color scheme--turquoise, pink, and purple.

My senior picture page. In October of 2007, Dad took my pictures--instead of spending lots of money to get someone else. These are some of my favorite ones. The pictures on the left hand page, bottom left, was my main one. But it WAS hard to decide.

And this is the final page I have done. You will remember my blogging photos of my formal dress and diploma. Well, I wanted to scrapbook it. The black, red, green, and roses make it all very classy--or elegant--or formal.

So, there you have it. What I have done. It is a fun way to spend my time. Sure, it can be time consuming and tedious, but the knowledge that I have my pictures stored for times sake makes it all worthwhile!

My Favorite Autumn Things

I saw this "tagging post" on Julia's blog. While she didn't tag anyone (thank goodness!) I thought it would be fun and enable you to get inside my head for a little while. Since I am not studying for a few more weeks, I find I am in a more relaxed posting mood. Hope you enjoy it!

1.) Favorite Smell... Whatever Mom has in our tart burner. Some days it's apples and cinnamon. Today, it is blueberries and cream.

2. Favorite Food... Something warm!! Contrary to Julia's opinion, I think MY Mom makes the best chili in the world....so that is always good. Though most of our homemade soups, like pasta e fagoli, cheesy chicken chowder, or split pea hit the spot.

3. Favorite Color... Red. It looks beautiful on the trees and it works with my coloring too. I can wear red and it helps hide the blotches in my cheeks that come with autumn and cooler temperatures.

4. Favorite Drink...Okay, if it is something cold, it is a pumpkin shake, hands down. The best is at Dairy Queen with the second best being a locally owned place. But if I want something hot, it is Candy Cane Lane tea (which is a combination of peppermint and vanilla)

5. Favorite Treat...The pumpkin shakes are a treat. We get them about twice during the fall season. I do enjoy rice crispy treats too.

6. Favorite Place to Visit... Usually, we go to Yellowstone National Park in the fall months, late August early September. It is less crowded, but the animals are still around. But with the economy as it is....a second trip was not in the budget...so no Yellowstone =(

7. Favorite Candy...Reese's peanut butter cups are my favorite candy any time of the year.

8. Favorite Movie To Watch...I don't know any autumn related movies really. Now, around Christmastime....that is a whole different story! I will share what we watch when December rolls around.

9. Favorite Clothing to wear...I really detest fall and winter clothes. I don't like having my toes closed in; my hair gets messed up by my coat. I probably enjoy my knitted shawl the most and my jeans second. I much prefer skirts, but I mostly have summery ones--and jeans keep my legs warm!

10. Favorite Outdoor Activity...Our nature walks are really pleasant in the fall, except when the wind is up. At the zoo, the animals tend to like the colder temperatures, so we see them out and about more.

11. Favorite Football Team ...Boise State Broncos without a doubt!!! We're 4-0!...hopefully 5-0 by Sunday =) As it relates to pro, I go for the New York Giants and the Indianapolis Colts.

12. Favorite Fall Holiday... Thanksgiving, of course! (We don't do Halloween)

13. Favorite Haunted place (haunted as in frequently visited)... My bedroom. When I do school, I will snuggle beneath my fleece blanket. I also like being downstairs--the heat relatively stays down there.

14. Favorite Food at Thanksgiving Dinner... Mashed Potatoes and Gravy first. Green bean casserole, corn pudding, and rolls are my second favorites. I like the turkey, but I prefer all the trimmings!

15. Favorite Pie... That would either be Mom's homemade pumpkin pie, which is the best I have ever had. Or apple pie. Pumpkin pie has to have whipped cream; apple isn't apple without ice cream.

16. Favorite Fall Hobby... Since my long break from studying is in the fall, I enjoy doing the less brain involved things. Reading, scrapbooking, sewing, playing the piano, sometimes getting to watch tv in the middle of the afternoon.

17. Favorite Fall Memory... Probably all of our trips to Yellowstone. Our last one had some very funny times. Like when I was convinced there was a bear outside....and it was the next campsite's generator!

18. Favorite Fall Sight...The leaves changing color. Only here they go a little too fast!

19. Overall Favorite Fall Thing...The warmth of family.

20. Favorite Season...As much as I enjoy fall, I like spring more. I like that the leaves and flowers are coming and not going away!

I hereby tag whoever wants to participate!

How Far Back Can You Remember?

Most nights I have trouble sleeping. I seem to get wired right after I turn out the light. I could have gone to bed late and gotten up early.....but I still have problems. Don't ask me why it is; I can't figure it out myself. I don't do caffiene right before bed or anything.

So, I have had to come up with ways to get sleepy. Some nights I count my blessing.....instead of sheep. Other nights I pray about various requests and people that have come to my mind. Sometimes, I try to get lines word for word correct from a favorite movie. Yet lately, I have found myself unlocking my memory bank as I try to remember things from years ago.

Pictures are great keys. We can look at a photo and say, "I remember that." But there are the memories we have that do not need a picture. We can remember them just as vividly as yesterday. For me, the furthest back I can remember, without a picture, is 1996.

Why 1996? Well, that was the year of one of my favorite vacations. We got to stay in a fancy hotel in Clearwater Beach, Florida. I remember getting my own bed, which thrilled me to no end. We had a kitchen in the room, so we got fruity pebbles, a cereal we never ate.....and still don't. It was during the Summer Olympic Games in Atlanta, so I remember watching the women's gymnastics team take the gold. It was also during the crash of TWA flight 800. And I remember playing with a German girl in the hotel pool. It was definitely a fun time!

I was just curious to know.....what is the furthest back you can remember without a picture or a video to trigger anything? It is fun to recall the past and all of its joys, and yes, even the pains.

The Many Facets of Feminism

Feminism—it’s a word that has been tossed around a lot the past few weeks and months, especially in the political realm. The beginning of the year found many Christians discussing the radical feminism of Hilary Clinton. Everything under the sun was brought to the light: her pro-choice record, her stances on obvious women superiority, the governmental control in EVERY area of life, the lack of femininity in her wardrobe. But by summer, Senator Clinton was out of the running for the Presidency and all talk was stilled. That is, until Sarah Palin stepped onto the scene.

Sarah Palin and Hilary Clinton are two very different women. Sarah Palin is a stanch pro-life supporter; she is for minimal government in matters of guns and healthcare. Governor Palin dresses in skirts. However, according to several dear people I respect, Sarah has been deemed a feminist. Indeed, she has been called a “feminist for life (unborn lives.”)

Now, I do agree with the general consensus of those I admire. Sarah Palin and Hilary Clinton are both in favor of throwing the shackles off…which isn’t right. They think that they can manage both a household and a high-profile career…and usually one suffers, so I will take the former over the latter. Granted, one is more “conservative” than the other. But I have a news-flash for you: Sarah Palin and Hilary Clinton have the same core….and so do we.

Conservative Christians don’t like to admit it, but there are elements of feminism in all of us. Okay, so we might not be out there getting a career. But what about our constant voicing of opinions? Or our independent streaks? What about our “me-first mentality?” Each of these things shows our feminism.

Perhaps you all feel as I do sometimes. I read certain books that talk about not being feminist and how that is wrong…..and then I screw up by making a decision independent of counsel or something. I can feel so inferior, like I am all of a sudden this radical feminist who no longer desires femininity and Biblical womanhood! Do any of you ever feel like that? Sadly, these feelings are made more prevalent than we think, probably because of all the writings out there. They are so good—yet still discouraging!

There is a fine line between being an individual and yet being a servant; we are to be submissive, yes, but not stifled—or at least I don’t think so. I am extremely blessed that in my family, Mom and Dad want me to make decisions…but I never make one without getting the opinion of one or both of my parents first. I have freedom and independence, yet there are safeguards. (Mom and Dad let me have my own e-mail address, but I can never check it without their logging me on to the computer. They also know full well who I e-mail and for the most part, they know what the letters contain because I tell them.) The Lord created women with a mind of their own, so I feel they are to have some of their own thoughts—and provided they don’t do it all the time, I feel they can share them too.

I struggle with not having my feminism pop up more than it should. I far too often voice my own opinions (though I am learning when I should just turn the mouth off.) I do get impatient when waiting for Garrett or Dad to open the door at restaurants. I am far from perfect, so don’t ever think you’re alone in that way!

Honestly, I feel bad for Sarah Palin. Don’t think that I excuse her actions ( I wish she were more of a wife and mother than a politician.) But I think some of the treatment and words about her are unfair. The Lord says that he who is without sin should cast the first stone. I cannot get down in the mouth about her being a feminist (albeit a less radical of one than others I have seen) when I struggle with being a feminist too.

Let’s all try to figure out where feminism rears its ugly head in our lives and try to remove it—yet still be an individual, not a stifled robot, at the same time.

Why Do I Always Seem to get Tagged?!

I am always getting tagged by people. Who starts the game anyway? All I know is that Jasmine and Madison tagged me now and I have to figure out 6 random things about myself. I feel like an open book--that many of you know about me already--or you have read in my archives things I have already said. But since I have new(er) readers, perhaps I can get away with it?!

So, I will list 6 or 7 random things about me and then I will be "wonderful" and tag some more.

1.) I do not like lightning and thunder. Perhaps it is because of the years I lived in Florida and you had the hurricane threats and things. Where I live now, we do not get much rain at all (we average 11 inches a YEAR.) But in the summer, we get dry lightning and thunder storms and even though I am in the house, I still don't like it.

2.) Up until recently, I was anti-coffee; I couldn't stand the taste of it. But once I got a hazelnut java chiller from Sonic....I was hooked. I love to get that icy drink on hot days! And now, I even ask Dad for a sip of his coffee. Who knows, when I go to Starbucks sometime, I might have to get something with caffeine in it.

3.) I have a bizarre tongue condition. I don't know what triggers it, but my tongue can break out in these red and enflamed shapes. It is painful! Then my tongue feels raw for a while. (Yet for those who know about it, I am in the clearing up stage =)

4.) I have no athletic ability in me whatsoever. I will take watching sports (my favorites being college football, gymnastics, golf, and baseball) over doing them myself any day. I am an indoor girl through and through. But don't get me wrong, I can be passionate about sports when the need arises =)

5.) Mom and I love to go to tea rooms together. The tradition has been established since 1998. We used to go every other month, but now it is a little less often. We each get a pot of tea and some lunch. It is a nice way to relax and have girl time.

6.) If I could go back in time to any period in the U.S., I would go back to the 1940's and 50's. I love the outfits back then!! Also, I wouldn't have to worry about the movies and tv shows that my kids watched. (Though if I had to go back to Europe, give me Regency England any day.)

7.) I still get asked if I want kids' menus! It is really annoying to go to a restaurant and see three adult menus in the waiter's hand! But because I am 4 foot 11 and a half, I get categorized as a twelve year old. I am learning to laugh at all the jokes my family and I make about it. (Like how embarrassing it would be if out to dinner with my fiancee, I get asked about a kid's menu, thinking I am his younger sister! Or how I just barely break the mandatory height requirement for car seats =)

Hopefully you learned something. I tag anyone who wants to do this. The choice is yours!!

August/September Reading List

Okay, I am working on a million things right now. I have started a nature study/photography blog, where I post pictures of my nature walks......so I getting that all geared up. I am in the process of writing two articles for this blog (or rather, I will be this afternoon.) But then I remembered that back at the beginning of September, I didn't do August's reading list!! I was so busy with graduation posts. So, here you go....the books I read in both August and September!!

Jerusalem Interlude, by Bodie Thoene--Back in July, I was reading a lot of the Zion Covenant Series; I was on book three. Well, Jerusalem Interlude is book 4. I think it was my least favorite of the ones I have read, but that doesn't mean it was bad. My favorite characters were absent in this one that's all.

Danzig Passage, by Bodie Thoene--This is book 5 and it is so action packed from beginning to end!! As is customary with the series, you are introduced to a new entourage of characters....and you grow to love (or despise) them as much as the ones already in the story. A warning with this one: one of the characters has been "carrying on" with a Nazi, thinking that he loved her. Nothing is described, and it is a fact in history that soldiers would do anything to increase the Aryan race (and they didn't care how it was done.)

Warsaw Requiem, by Bodie Thoene--Book 6....and I thought it was the end (but more on that in a minute) This one has you even more on the edge of your seat than Book 5!!! It is SO good! The Nazi soldier mentioned above is violent in this, but what can you expect? I cannot tell you much; the series is worth your reading. All I will say is that you won't put it down easily!

London Refrain, by Bodie Thoene---I thought Warsaw Requiem was the end of the Zion Covenant Series. I was disappointed and I felt that loose ends weren't tied up. So, you can imagine how happy I was when I discovered there were books 7, 8, and 9!! London Refrain is book 7 and picks up right where 6 left off. There are new characters too!

The Pemberley Chronicles, by Rebecca Ann Collins--Every girl loves Pride and Prejudice. Who could help it? But if you are like me, you wish there was more to the story. Current authors have tried to do "sequels," but they have added raunchy elements that Jane Austen would faint at. (I only know that through what I have heard) Well, Rebecca Ann Collins has created a series that is written just like Jane Austen! The books were originally published in Australia, but now an America publisher is putting them out. I had to request The Pemberley Chronicles from my library (and get it all the way from Brooklyn, New York =) but it was well worth it. It follows the lives of Jane Austen's creations through marriage, having children, experiencing deaths.....by the end of this Book 1, Darcy and Elizabeth have been married 25 years!! I encourage any Jane Austen lover to get this. (I have book 2, newly arrived from St. Cloud Minnesota, waiting for me!)

Persuasion, by Jane Austen--This was the last Jane Austen novel I had to read. I did enjoy it, though I found myself picturing the people from the Masterpiece Theatre in the parts! Now, I need to go back and read all of the novels again!

Quest for the High Places, by Natalie Nyquist--Natalie is a writer over at YLCF and has been a great encouragement to me. My dear friend, Anna, sent me this book a while ago, and I just now read it. It was such an encouragement as well. I recommend it to anyone who is waiting for something--marriage, life to settle down, etc. Quest inspired me to read Hinds Feet on High Places, which is on my nightstand.

Shades of Earl Grey, by Laura Childs--I love mysteries. They are some of my favorite movies and books. When I was in my early teens, I lived on Nancy Drew. But as I have gotten older, I want something different. Shades of Earl Grey is book 3 in the Tea Shop Mystery Series. (You don't have to read them in order.) The books take place in Charlestown, South Carolina; the heroine runs a tea room. I love tea, so I am in my element. What I also love is that there are recipes in the back of each novel. Now, you should use your own discretion (since one or two of the books might be not the greatest) but I can definitely recommend this one! And if you just want the recipes, go for it!!

Okay, so I read a lot of fiction. I had a lot of difficult, serious reads looking at me later on....so I wanted some fun! Each one was really good and I felt like it was time well spent!

Do Hard Things, My Conscience, and the 2008 Election....Plus My New Address=)

One note before I go on with what I wanted to post about.......I have gotten my new URL up and running. I hope that by changing it, I will have my archives available to me once again. So, to make it easier on you, changing your sidebars, favorites, whatever to http://www.allbecauseofgrace.com/. Now, on to what I want to talk about!



It shouldn't be hard for you all to tell: politics fascinates me. I have always been into it. I wrote back in 2007 how early my "love for it" started. But since many of you are new readers, I will talk about it again. At the ripe old age of two, Mom had me holding a Bush/Quayle sign during the 1992 election. You can imagine my disappointment when Clinton won =) 2000 found me staying up VERY late as I waited to see which way Florida went. 2004 was the same, only with Ohio being the deciding state.

Yet I turned eighteen in February and with that came an even greater excitement. I couldn't wait to cast my first ballot in May. I don't care that I am not driving yet, but to not vote......oh, the torture it would be!!

But as we know, this election has been anything but easy to decide. My candidate went out in the middle of the primary season; there was speculation about him for VP early on, but that quickly died out. I have been left to choose between the two obvious candidates that are out there (or going a different way) and let me tell you.....I have learned a lot about following your conscience and determining the course you want for your nation.

You all know the choices we have out there. Well, I was totally positive which way I WASN'T going to go. But up until recently, I wasn't sure between the Republican ticket or a 3rd party ticket. I spent a great deal of time reading blogs, articles, the Scriptures, and listening to my family and others I respect. What I have come away with is a decision that will surprise many in the Conservative circles I "run with"......I will leave you to figure out what I did and why.

There is so much hanging in the balance this election. I had to take that into consideration. I realized that my conscience might say one thing, but it will say something else to a very dear friend....but that doesn't mean one of us is better than the other (or that one of us is delusional) In fact, it takes guts and doing hard things to admit that people will differ and that is okay.

Yet one thing remains the same with all of us: we recognize that God holds this election in His hands. He knows which states will go blue and which ones will go red. He knows who will take residence in 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. I can fret about it all I want, but that will not change anything. I can pray; I can vote according to my conscience....and I can leave the results up to the Father.

The Answers Are......

Okay, for those of you who didn't do my guessing post, and want to, SKIP THIS POST!! Since I am going to reveal the answers now. My mom got the most right--with 12. Jasmine and Maiden Meghan had 10. Miss S.-9. Jessica-8. Robert-7. Anna and Miriam-6. Julia-2. and Madison had 1.

#1.) Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. This is my favorite musical of all time. I really need to get a DVD instead of my VHS tape. I think almost all of you had this one. For those who guessed (or wondered), my favorite song is "Goin' Courtin" with "Spring, Spring, Spring" a very close second.

#2.) Shall We Dance? Either I stumped you or nobody knew it. This is my second favorite musical and my favorite of the Rogers/Astaire team. I love the musical score and lyrics by George and Ira Gershwin--George is one of my favorite composers. Anyway, I cannot pick between two songs: "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off" and "They Can't Take That Away From Me." Definitely watch this one, if you get the chance.

#3.) Roman Holiday. Audrey Hepburn is perfect as the Princess Anya in this film, for which she won an Oscar. I can totally recommend it to you. You might not like the ending, but it is the right ending.

#4.) High Society. Grace Kelly is the most elegant and classy actress to have ever come out of Hollywood, in my opinion. This is the musical version of "The Philadelphia Story." I must say that I love Frank Sinatra. He has the coolest voice.....or one of them. I can recommend this movie also. And my favorite song is "You're Sensational," which Sinatra sings to Kelly.

#5.) Enchanted. Okay, so almost everyone got this one too. I recently watched it, and I thought it was delightful. The lowcut dresses leave something to be desired, but I was pleasantly surprised by the positive messages Disney left in it. Use your own discretion, because of the dresses and the whole fantasy thing.....but I think it is good. My favorite song in the film is "That's How You Know."

#6.) Gods and Generals. I was surprised that as many of you got this as you did. It is rated PG-13 for violence, but I say it is definitely worth it. They are not shy about the faith of Stonewall Jackson. It's a powerful movie, though rather long and some might get tired of the speeches.

#7.) Sound of Music. The most obvious of all the pictures....and I tried a "harder" one. I grew up watching this movie. We now own the 2 disc collector's edition, so I enjoy watching the bonus features. My favorite song would have to be "Edlewiess," since I play it on the piano.

#8.) Singin in the Rain. I picked a slightly harder picture, as I knew Debbie Reynolds would give it away =) This musical is funny with quite a few good songs. I must tell you though that I fast-forward one dancing number. It is in the dream sequence; I skip it because it is pretty raunchy. The rest of the movie is great; Garrett even likes it. But choosing songs.....it is between three: "Make Em' Laugh," "Good Mornin'," and "Singin in the Rain."

#9.) Mr. Deeds Goes to Town. I knew none of you would get this...besides Mom. This is her absolute favorite movie of all time; Gary Cooper is her favorite actor. The movie is worth watching at least once.

#10.) The Best Years of Our Lives. This is my favorite "home front" movie. If you get a chance to watch a post war movie, I would recommend this one. My family loves old movies, and we just recorded this one (after watching it many times) I wrote about it in one of my archives, if anyone goes looking for it.

#11.) Vivacious Lady. This is definitely a must see movie. It is so funny! We love Jimmy Stewart and Dad really likes Ginger Rogers. Put the two together and our family was content. You will laugh hysterically in some scenes.

#12.) The Tender Trap. Once again, I love Frank Sintra's singing. This isn't exactly a musical; Sinatra only sings the beginning credits and the same song plays throughout the movie. "(Love is) The Tender Trap." It is a dated movie; watching it, you will see why. But it is delightful.

#13.) State Fair. It says "State Fair" on the picture, so that gives it away. This is my second favorite of Rodgers and Hammerstein.....and only because I grew up with "The Sound of Music." I enjoy the two main actors in this, since I have seen them in many other old films. My favorite song is "It's a Grand Night for Singing."

#14.) Eight Below. This is a new(er) movie that I can recommend. There is no language and minimal sexual elements. It is like "Homeward Bound" only without the language. I cry at the end, so does Mom. The whole family enjoys this one, though we haven't watched it in a little while.

#15.) National Treasure 2. Maybe I stumped you. You knew it was "National Treasure" of some kind. I thought I should be a little harder. Dad and I went to see NT2 the day after Christmas; it is a fun way to have a father/daughter date. I like NT1 better, but this wasn't bad at all. I would love to see a "National Treasure 3." There is one pretty low dress and a guy keeps looking in all the wrong places.....but that's for like 5 minutes. Everything else is smooth sailing.

#16.) Emma. And yes, it is the "Emma" with Gwenyth Paltrow. The picture I got was in black and white. I love this version of Jane Austen's classic. I have seen the other one, but this is way better. The soundtrack is lovely too.

Hope you all enjoyed finding out the answers. And maybe you found a new movie or two to watch. Yet please, use your own judgment. EVERYONE has different criteria!

A Guessing Post

Since I am still trying to get the bugs out of my blog, I thought I would do a fun post. I haven't done something fun in a while, and I got the idea from Jessica. Here is what you do:

1.) DO NOT LOOK AT OTHER PEOPLE'S GUESSES IN THE COMMENT SECTION (and I won't be responding until a new post)

2.)Guess what movie each picture is from--these are going to be musicals and other movies I think are cute and good (though of course you should use your own judgment with them.)

3.) Leave your guesses in the comment section

and 4.) If you want to try something really hard, see if you can guess what my favorite song is from that movie (if it is a musical)

1.)

2.)

3.)

4.)

5.)
6.)

7.)

8.)

9.) Per Mom's Request

10.)

11.)

12.)

13.)

14.)

15.)

16.)

Changes, Changes.....

Okay, you can all see the changes that are beginning to take place.

1.) I have a new blog template (would like to know what you think of it)

2.) I have a new blog name. How Great is His Faithfulness is still so true to me, but I will share why I changed it in another post.

3.) And this one hasn't happened yet, but I am in the process of getting a domain name. My internet filter is blocking my archives, so I hope changing my url will change that. So, I will let you all know when that happens. I will want you to make the necessart sidebar/follower changes.

That's about it. Just wanted to keep you all up to date!!

Extreme Makeover--Blog Edition

PLEASE continue to read the posts I have written and will write over the next few days. I have wanted a change for my blog and I am attempting to work on it. But things aren't so great at the moment!

Just wanted you to pardon all of the dust and noise. Who knows what it will loook like from day to day!

Mall Moments....and Modesty

I very rarely go to the mall. Frankly, I can never find things I like. Plus, mall clothes aren't exactly in my budget. When I have to get my clothes, I either do thrift stores or Walmart.

However, my clothing style has changed of late. I am sick and tired of people asking me if I want kid's menus at restaurants (I hang back so the host doesn't see me.) I am fed up with the fashions geared for the "Hannah Montana" tweens. If there is a word that I want to sum up my dressing style, it is "classy....." but I have nothing like that in my wardrobe.

It was a long shot, but last night, Mom said we should see if the mall had what I was looking for. I will admit, I wasn't too hopeful. Most of what the mall has is "not me." But I went along with her for the ride (since Mom time is good even you don't get something.) We tried Macy's first.

And believe it or not, I found something!! On the clearance rack, I found this lovely red dress. It was exactly what I was looking for. I call it my "Audrey Hepburn/Grace Kelly dress." (Can you tell that I watch a lot of 40's and 50's movies?) Now, it was still more than I would usually spend for one article of clothes, but......

The rest of the evening proved fruitless. Yet, I also discovered, on our way out, that my mall does have a modest clothing store!! I have seen Down East Basics on the internet, but I assumed it was only an online retailer. I am happy to be wrong! So now if I find something I like, I can try it on.

However, mixed in with a little bit of good, there is a lot of bad still at the mall. I know why I don't shop that much: it is depressing. You have to go hunting to find something remotely good, but if you want short, tight, and revealing, you don't have to look far.

And then, there are the stores I positively detest. Can you guess which two.....Mom and I do not like Victoria's Secret and Abercrombie and Fitch one bit! I am sorry, but for a girl who wants to live and purity (and wants guys to be that way too) these two stores are battlegrounds of the mind and eyes. I would love to play a role in getting rid of Victoria's Secret especially. Does any one have any ideas? =) (And can you tell I have a new blog title in the works.)

So, overall, my time with Mom was great and beneficial. I got my dress, sure, but over pretzels and cookies (for who can go to the mall and not eat?!) we discussed modesty, the changing times, politics. It is these things that I will remember.

A Graceful, Not Judgmental, Blog

The Lord is teaching me a lot about grace these past few weeks and months. I have been overwhelmed by the fact that no matter how much I fail, the Lord extends grace. That doesn't mean He is pleased by what I do, but He gives me another chance...and another....and another. God does not judge and prosecute me like I know He should.

So, just as my Father acts this way towards me, I hope and pray that it comes across to you as well. For who am I to judge a person? Who am I to beat someone over the head and discourage them with legalism? Yes, I am called to speak truth and love, but the Lord does lead in certain ways.

I am "issuing this statement" as a result of things I have written. I shared about what I am going to do now that high school is over, but I hope and pray that I didn't sound judgmental or discouraging. I recognize that some girls feel they should go to college; others are "told" to. College isn't talked about in the Bible; it is for each person to decide what is best for them (with the Lord's leading.) The Lord has led me in one way, but that doesn't mean it is for you.

I am resolved to get "picky" about the issues that the Lord gets picky about. Things like modesty and purity. But when it comes to college vs. staying home or who to vote for (and I am not giving advice on that, as I am figuring it out for myself) I want you to do what God wants you to do. Provided you aren't living in a manner contrary to His Word, I will support you. My friends know this!

Nothing turns a person off more than legalism. We should all be about loving as the Father loves, extending grace to those who need it, and not forcing our convictions upon others (unless you are in a situation that should.) May we be all about promoting the love of Christ!

Seven Years Ago

Seven years ago.....this nation was changed forever.

Seven years ago....I remember being awakened by my brother. He said something weird was going on, that Mom was on the phone with Grandma, that planes were crashing into buildings. I stayed glued to the TV for the next two days.

Seven years ago.....this nation, for a VERY brief moment, displayed patriotism and honor towards all branches of the service--military, police, firefighters.

Seven years ago.....For another VERY brief moment, people started showing brotherly love and an interest in God once again.

Seven years ago....I believe the Lord was trying to get the United States of America's attention with all that He allowed to happen in New York City, Washington D.C., and Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

Seven year ago....I thought things would be different than they are today. Do I think we're safe? Sure (but I thought we were then too.) But do I think we are where we should be? No.

Where were you....seven years ago? What are your memories and your thoughts now...seven years later? Do you even think about it?

We need to be praying for this nation!

In the Hand of the Potter

The dear family I babysit shared this story with me. I thought I would pass it on to you. It fits so well with my stuff on graduation and life and general. May it do the same for you!

There was couple who took a trip to England to shop in a beautiful antique store to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary. The both liked antiques and pottery and especially teacups. Spotting an exceptional cup, they asked "May we see that? We've never seen a cup quite so beautiful."

As the lady handed it to them, suddenly the teacup spoke, "You don't understand. I have not always been a teacup. There was a time when I was just a lump of red clay. My master took me and rolled me, pounded me over and over and I yelled out, 'Don't do that. I don't like it. Let me alone!' but he only smiled and gently said 'Not yet.'

"Then WHAM! I was placed on a spinning wheel and suddenly I was spun around and around and around. 'Stop it! I'm getting so dizzy. I'm going to be sick.' I screamed. But the master only nodded and said, quietly, 'Not yet.' He spun me and poked and prodded and bent me out of shape to suit himself and then he put me in the oven. I never felt such heat. I yelled and knocked and pounded at the door. 'Get me out of here.' I could see him through the opening and I could read his lips as he shook his head and said, 'Not yet.'

"When I thought I couldn't bear it aother minute, the door opened. He carefully took me out and put me on a shelf. I began to cool. 'Oh, this is much better,' I thought. But after I cooled, he picked me up and brushed me and painted me all over. The fumes were horrible. I thought I would gag. ' Oh, please stop it,' I cried. He only shook his head and said, 'Not yet.'

Then suddenly, he put me back in the oven. Only it was not like the first one. This was twice as hot and I knew I would suffocate. I begged. I pleaded. I screamed. I cried; I was convinced I would never make it.

I was ready to give up. Just then the door opened and he took me out and placed me on the shelf, where I cooled and waited and waited. I wondered, 'What's he going to do to me next?' An hour later, he handed me a mirror and said, 'Look at yourself." And I did. I said, 'that's not me; that couldn't be me. It's beautiful. I'm beautiful!!!' Quietly he spoke, "I want you to remember, then," he said, "I know it hurt to be rolled and pounded and patted, but had I left you alone, you'd have dried up. I know it made you dizzy to spin around on the wheel, but if I had stopped, you would have crumbled. I know it hurt and it was hot and disagreeable in the oven, but if I hadn't put you there, you would have cracked. I know the fumes were bad when I brushed and painted you all over, but if I hadn't done that, you never would have hardened. You would not have any color in your life. If I hadn't put you back in that second oven, you wouldn't have survived for long becausse the hardness would not have held. Now, you are a finished product. Now you are what I had in mind when I first began with you."

The moral of this story is this: God knows what he's doing with each of us. He is the potter, and we are His clay. He will mold us and make us and expose us to just enough pressures of just the right kinds that we may be made into a flawless piece of work to fulfill His good, pleasing and perfect will. So when life seems hard, and you are being pounded and patted and pushed almost beyond endurance; when your world seems to be spinning out of control; when you feel like you are in a fiery furnace of trials; when life seems to "stink", try this: Brew yourself a cup of your favorite tea, sit down and think about this story....and then, have a little talk with the Potter.