Making poop!

I just learned that this week Baby H will be reaching a gastrointestinal milestone... the making of poop. In the 14th week, the fetus begins to make meconium (first resemblence of poop) within the intestinal tract. Wow, talk about holding it a long time!!! We call that constipation... in the fetus world, it's completely normal.


According to my very trusty sources (WebMD and the Mayo Clinic websites), Baby H weighs almost an entire ounce!!! He/she has eyelids that are fused together (so much for sight-seeing for a while) and already has distinct facial features (hopefully, my eyes, my nose, my mouth, my chin... okay, so I want my kid to look like a mini-me. Is that so bad?). Supposedly, in the 14th week the little fetus will begin to respond to external stimuli (i.e. people poking me in the stomach) and respond by "wriggling away". Too cute :)

Easter Reflections

Since I didn't submit a post for Easter (camera batteries were dead), I at least wanted to use my Thankful Thursday to reflect on my gratitude for having a Resurrection Sunday to celebrate! I really tried to meditate on the truth of Christ's resurrection last week and focus on the implications of Christ truly being alive and reigning King. I was sharing with Jimmy that my all-time favorite worship songs (even before and after the easter season) are those that exalt Jesus as King, Lord, Conquerer...you know, those vertical songs that allow you to connect with the majesty of God and declare the Kingship of our savior. Perhaps the reason that I am so drawn to those songs and feel such passion when singing them, is because my spirit connects with the truth of the words and what they mean for me. Jesus' resurrection means power over sin and death and victory for me. How can you not get excited out of your skin when singing about the risen Jesus conquering the grave!!! I am thankful to serve the Greatest God!

Mission 1st Trimester: Accomplished!

I'm so happy to be able to finally write this post! We have conquered the first trimester! Today marks the beginning of Week 13 and our little jumping bean is well on his or her way to looking less like an alien and more like a human! For obvious reasons, I've resisted blogging on the events, milestones, and really funny stories of the first weeks of pregnancy... so just to recap, the baby has grown so incredibly much from the time of conception, that if he/she continued to grow at this rate he/she would be like the size of a 2 story building at the end of 9 months! I'm sure it would be hard to find clothes to fit a baby that big...so thank God things are starting to slow down a bit. Baby pretty much has everything, in terms of organs and body parts, that he/she will need, but we're still working on the proportion thing. According to WebMD, "The head is still disproportionately bigger than the body, but the rest of the body is starting to catch up. The face is starting to look more human, with eyes moving closer together. Toes and fingers are clearly separate, and ankles and wrists have formed. External genitalia are becoming visible. Intestines are shifting into their proper place, too." Even though I can't feel it yet, the baby is moving all over the place! He/she is enjoying that olympic size swimming pool before things start getting cramped. I haven't had an ultrasound yet (won't until 20 weeks), but I love looking at youtube videos of 3D ultrasounds that other moms have submitted. I'm amazed that even though a 13 week old fetus is so incredibly small (about 4") it's so developed and active!

I'm especially thankful that "morning" sickness (which was rarely in the morning) is pretty much a thing of the past. I'm not sure if that is a mental-behavioral response, or truly due to medical reasons. Either way, YAY!!! As my uterus is moving up out of my pelvis, my southern organs, particularly the bladder, are breathing a sigh of relief. I'm only getting up once in the middle of the night to pee = more and better sleep. (I've been reminded that excessive urination will soon return in the third trimester).

Here is a 3D ultrasound pic of a 13 week old fetus...not Hurst baby, but they probably look really similar :)

Thankful Thursday

- Cheap maternity clothes at Bealls Outlet!!!
- So many generous and cheerful givers, willing to hand-me-down all kinds of goodies!
- God's mercy (forgoing the punishment we truly deserve)
- God's sovereignty and ultimate control in the earth (whew!...what a relief to know)

You are my God, and I will give you thanks; you are my God, and I will exalt you.
-Psalm 118:28

Thankful

Missed yesterday (what's new), but I have been ready for Thankful Thursday for almost a week! I'm so thankful for all of my family and friends that have been supportive during these pregnancies and losses and especially encouraging during this very exciting time in our lives! I didn't realize how many people out there were lifting us up in prayer until I started getting this flood of emails and comments after last week's post. Thank you, Thank you! We are encouraged by your love :)

Held

Today I attended a memorial service for a baby who never experienced life outside of her mother's womb. Today I attended a service to support two parents who are not only grieving the loss of their baby girl, but who are also grieving the loss of the excitement and anticipation of becoming parents. Today was a tough day.

One of my childhood friends lost her baby from placenta abuptio at 7 months, last Saturday. I have spent the past several days thinking about this, literally dreaming about this, and imagining what this pain must feel like. I have an idea, but the excitement of having a child grows month after month, just as you get to know your unborn child more with each passing day. I imagine that the wound is a little different than what I have experienced; a little deeper. Let me just say, I can't think of many things that would be more painful.

So... in the midst of this great pain I am reminded of a truth that never strays too far from my mind. Pain and suffering on this earth are the very things that drive us into the arms of God. Without great trial in our lives, we would never realize that we are insufficient in and of ourselves; and that He is all sufficient. We are insufficient to handle such pain and hardship, insufficient to carry on in peace. But He is sufficient, providing and being all that we need. I haven't lost a parent, sibling, or spouse (thank God), but I have experienced enough loss in my life to have learned to remember this truth during times like these. It almost seems like these times of loss are much needed opportunities to remind ourselves that "God is in control" and "His ways are higher than ours; His thoughts are deeper" (both truths spoken at funerals everyday). Losing those closest to us, particularly in tragic circumstances, is a reality check on so many levels. There is nothing like thoughts of death and eternity to make you self-evaluate and reflect on your view of God.

In light of loss, I have added a new song to my playlist- "Held" by Natalie Grant. This song is so touching, reminding us that we've never been promised a life without trial or suffering. But rather, the promise is that during those times He will hold us in His everlasting arms.

Friends of the NRA Banquet

Saturday night was the Friends of the NRA banquet for the Lake Wales Ridge Area. Through a strange string of events I was asked to join the planning committee and since Jimmy and I are gun owners and participants in shooting sports, I figured this was a good cause for my volunteer time. (Let me just say that I feel completely blessed to be in a position to give some of my time to worthy causes). It was exciting to be a part of something so big and semi-political. If I didn't believe that our second amendment rights needed to be defended before, I sure do now! Here are some pics from the event...

Me and Jimmy, Mike and Kelly after a yummy Texas Cattle Co. steak dinner!

Our "winnings" from the live auction. I was so excited to be the highest bidder on this crazy buffalo painting. First of all, this was my first time actively participating in a live auction (which is super fun!). And most importantly, we got a killer deal on the item. (I guess there weren't too many buffalo fans in the house). When the charasmatic auctioneer yelled, "sold, for $150 to the lady in the center," I could have just screamed! That was me! I kept saying "oh my gosh, I've never won anything in my life!" And Jimmy didn't hesitate to remind me that I didn't win anything. I'd be paying good money for that picture. I don't know...There is something about an auction that makes you feel like a winner. :)

This picture doesn't do it justice; it really is a great work of art. Come by the house y'all and see it for yourselves!

Michelle's Bachelorette Party- Saturday, March 21st

Thankful Thursday

Tonight I'm thankful for something I've never really been thankful for before... the sound of a baby's heartbeat. "swoosh, swoosh, swoosh" Ah!

I haven't shared this with everyone yet, but I am 10 weeks and 3 days preggo today! Went for my first visit to the midwife and everything looks good! I'm eager for week 12 to get here, but hearing the heartbeat today brought me more joy and peace than I ever could have imagined. I have a feeling this will be 6 1/2 more months of "more than I ever could have imagined".

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb.
-Psalm 139:13

Thankful whatever (man, I was doing so good).

In our Bible study last week, Missy and I talked about revolutionizing the way we think in regards to who we are in Christ and how we view the world. We were encouraged to memorize scriptures that were affirmative of our standing with God. So, I'm thankful for truth.

• I am God's child. John 1:12
• I am Christ's friend. John 15:15
• I have been justified. Romans 5:1
• I am united with the Lord and one with him in spirit. I Corinthians 6:17
• I have been bought a a price; I belong to God. I Corinthians 6:20
• I am a member of Christ's body. I Corinthians 12:27
• I am a saint. Ephesians 1:1 (Hey, I didn't say it, God did).
• I have been adopted as God's child. Ephesians 1:5
• I have direct access to God through the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 2:18
• I have been redeemed and forgiven of all my sins. Colossians 1:14
• I am complete in Christ. Colossians 2:10

Life

I enjoy blogging my thoughts and all the things I'm thankful for, but I most enjoy sharing everyday moments in life. Surely we've all looked at someone else and thought, "wow, they have the best life ever...always active and having fun." We all have adventure and excitement in our lives that we don't recognize or acknowledge enough. I don't want to forget how incredibly blessed I am or just how much fun we really have!

Me, Jimmy, Mike, Melissa, and Trey at the Blue Crab in Sebring. All You Can Eat Crablegs, baby! We ate for over an hour, but surprisingly weren't that stuffed. Guess we worked off some calories with all the crackin' and pickin'!

Jimmy, being silly. These look like really bad bubba teeth.

I love taking pictures of little ones! Trey was such a good sport at dinner. My camera captured him enjoying his extensive menu which included lemons and cheesecake! Yum!

Kayaking with Mom

Last weekend, my mom and I went kayaking across Lake Reedy. We were just shy of the south shore (say that 5x's fast) before turning around and heading back home. Glad to be enjoying this Florida weather!

Thankful Thursday

• abundant life
• certified mental health counselors (...no, really)
• bubble baths and toenail polish
• my family (excluding no one, no matter how screwed up they are ;)
• healthy babies and good deliveries (welcome Rylann Rae, born to Amanda and Ryan TODAY....very, very early this morning)

"Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men..."-Psalm 107:8

Thankful Thursday

I'm especially thankful tonight for my wonderful hubby! I'm thankful that he is adventurous, creative, fun, and young at heart (as seen in the following mechanical bull riding pictures). He has many strengths that I do not, such as spontaneity, which is particularly helpful in this balancing act called marriage. (See bull; ride bull). I'm thankful that he can really hold on when the going gets tough (testified by his determined facial expression in the first bull riding picture). He's a fighter; usually gets right back up when he gets knocked down. (Well, except in this case. At $5 a pop, one ride will have to do). I'm also very thankful that my husband is brilliant! He really is a smart cookie and will do whatever it takes to provide for his family. (By the looks of his 15 second ride, bull riding may even be an option!)

Grace and Sanctification Part II

Now that I'm really getting into this study, I'm wondering if I bit off more than I could chew!! ;) God has so much to say on these subjects and so many wonderful revelations to reveal! This is a mere organization of my thoughts...


At some point in our walk with Christ we begin to mature. We grow from babes drinking spiritual milk to ...well, toddlers eating baby food? Do we ever get to steak and potatoes? I'm not sure. The point is, we grow. God doesn't expect perfection from us. As a matter of fact, as I like to say, failure IS an option. Failure is inevitable, which is why His mercies and grace are new everyday. Nevertheless, through the teachings of the scripture, God makes it clear that He wants us to live pure and holy lives; offering our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God— for this is our spiritual act of worship. (Romans 12:1) This is not to be confused as payment for salvation. As my pastor reminds us, our desire to live a life pleasing to God is a response of what He has done for us and our love for Him, not as a way to earn what has been freely given. Acceptable living before God (sanctification) is possible because of the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Perfect living, however, is not. If it was, the sacrifice of Jesus, as the scripture says, would be for nothing. So, if even our best works are not good enough to obtain for us eternal life, yet God's freely given grace through faith is, then why even strive towards right living? "You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature ; rather, serve one another in love." -Galations 5:13

"Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God".
-I Peter 2:16


The Parable of the Talents (paraphrased by me)
It's like a man who goes on a journey, but before he leaves gives each of his servants some talents (dolla bills). He gives his best worker (let's say) $5,000, the next best worker $2,000 and the last worker $1000. While he was gone, the first two servants invested their money, earning back double what they started with. The last worker buried his money in a jar. When the boss man returned from his trip he took inventory of what the workers did with his money. He commended the first two for their wise thinking and rewarded them with more money. The last servant, however, was scolded for not using what was given him and his money taken away. Everyone who has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him.


"And I could not speak to you as to spiritual people but as to carnal, as to babes in Christ. I fed you with milk and not with solid food; for until now you were not able to receive it..."
-I Corinthians 3:1


"When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things."
-I Corinthians 13:11


"Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize."
-I Corinthians 9:26-27

Grace and Sanctification Part I

I've been thinking a lot lately about grace. For a few months now I've been pondering the relationship between grace and sanctification or self-discipline and how they both play an important role in our lives without canceling each other out. At first glance they seem almost opposites, but I believe God designed our lives to be characterized by both [grace and self discipline] simultaneously and in perfect harmony. (Only God can get away with such seemingly contradictory expectations). In his book The Ragamuffin Gospel, Brennan Manning discusses the all too typical church mentality about grace, which focuses on grace applied at salvation and then transitions into works based faith...where grace essentially ends. Manning reminds us of a great point and Biblical truth which is that grace continues on and on as we walk with Christ; that it extends beyond the point of salvation; and that it never changes- grace is always the only way. Grace is never replaced by works, salvation is never earned, and nothing can separate us from the Love of God... no matter how long (or short) we have been walking with God. I think this truth is frankly unbelievable to so many because we are so unworthy. Thus, the meaning of grace.

The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard (paraphrased by me):
The kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. He agreed to give each of them a denarius (let's say $100) for a day's work. He hired a few early in the morning, a few more at lunch time, and some in the afternoon. At the end of the work day, he paid each of them the same. Of course, the men who worked longer hours complained that they should receive more pay. The boss man said, "Take what is yours and go your way. I wish to give to this last man the same as to you."
-Matthew 20:1-16

"Where sin abounded, grace abounded much more, so that as sin reigned in death, even so grace might reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ."
-Romans 5:20-21

"That I may gain Christ and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ..."
-Philippians 3:8-9

...stay tuned for Grace and Sanctification Part II

Thankful Thursday (subject to changing days)

• fresh air and sunshine
• forgiveness- from God and others
• good health and healing
• I'm thankful that I have so many things to be thankful for, that sometimes it is hard to come up with examples!!!

...that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever. -Psalm 30:12

Thankful Thursday

• I am thankful for having a functioning refrigerator IN my kitchen!!!!
• For having ice. Period.
• Did I mention I am thankful to have a refrigerator and ice after three long months of trucking back and forth to the garage to obtain cold food and beverages??? Thank you, Jesus!
• I am thankful that God cares about even the little things in our lives...like refrigerators.
• I'm thankful that God answers prayers...in a variety of ways, not always the way would like Him to, but always perfectly and timely for His will. His ways are higher than ours; His thoughts are deeper.

I have to share this. This may seem silly to some of you, but in the midst of our refrigerator nightmares (when we found out that our "new" refrigerator was not working either) I stopped for a moment, literally laid my hand on the refrigerator door and prayed in exasperation, "God, PLEASE, make this refrigerator work...or at least let whatever is wrong with it be fixed for little money. In Jesus' name. Amen." I giggled as I walked away, remembering all the times growing up when my very Pentecostal grandmother laid her hands on EVERYTHING (including family members) demanding that they function properly (or behave properly) in Jesus' name. I soon forgot about my refrigerator request and went on complaining and worrying about, you guessed it, not having access to an icebox in the house. Okay, now fast-forwarding to Tuesday night... Jimmy asked a friend who has experience in air conditioning repair to come over and take a look at our frig. After tinkering with a few things he pulled out a small switch box and said, "looks like just a small problem...should only cost about $20 to fix". A small problem???? Thank you, Jesus, for answering my prayer...in a way that makes me (and my pocketbook) particularly happy :) He listens. He cares. ...and He humors me at times.

The Writing on the Wall

I've always wanted to decorate with vinyl lettering and finally took the plunge! I thought this scripture was perfect for the dining room and, of course, it is in no other color than "orange juice" :) Just what I needed to highlight the oranges in my kitchen...(now if I can just budget enough money for the fiesta tangerine canister set)! Words are so powerful (The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.-Proverbs 18:10). I'm really looking forward to being reminded of God's goodness everytime I walk in the kitchen! I told Jimmy at dinner tonight that I can just imagine our little one asking, "mommy, did you eat the Lord for supper?" "No, of course not, honey." "Well, then, how do you know he tastes good?"

FYI, I bought the lettering from Fruitful Vine Creations (http://www.fruitfulvinecreations.com/).

Love Writes a Deadly Verse

Jimmy and I celebrated Valentine's Day on Friday night at the murder mystery dinner put on by the Frostproof Chamber of Commerce. We didn't quite know what to expect (especially since this was a Frostproof production with an amateur cast) and even found ourselves a little nervous during the drive there! Nevertheless, we had a great time trying to solve the murder mystery and were impressed by the dinner and show. Here are some pics from the event, which was lots of fun (even though Jimmy and I were by far the youngest couple there!). XOXO

Thankful Thursday

Owning your own business is hard work! Can I get an amen?! I've recently taken on the daunting task of being the "office manager" for Hurst Pest (although, Jimmy says that's just a glorified name for secretary). I'm putting my organizational skills to the test (along with my accounting talents...or lack thereof) and learning the ins and outs of running a business. So, in the spirit of entrepreneurship, I've decided to give thanks today for...

• having a brave husband who had the guts to make his own way and who has consistently portrayed the Provider image of the Father.
• the freedom to make our own schedule and take as many vacation days as we'd like (or can afford).
• Quickbooks.
• loyal customers.
• the opportunity to learn something I was never taught in school.
• endless opportunities to grow, experience, and be creative.
• drawing closer to God and relying on His faithfulness during times of uncertainty.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.- Psalm 100:4

Thankful Thursday (yay, I finally did it...thanks to Nikki's friendly reminder ;)

Today, I'm thankful for...

• having the BEST yoga instructor ever...even if I only have her for a little while :(


• great songs (and books) that I hear (or read) just when I need them


• facebook- connecting with old friends


• the sunshine (which I would really like to experience right now)


• my house and the fact that we can still pay the mortgage! Hallelujah!

I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness and will sing praise to the name of the LORD Most High.- Psalm 7:17

While I'm waiting

I want to share with you the lyrics to a song that has really ministered to me lately. You're probably thinking, "wow, you must just sit around all day listening to music"...that's not exactly the case (though I do listen to music while I'm doing most things). Songs tend to fall in my lap unexpectedly, like this one...at a superbowl party. Go figure. (Thanks Heather for your obedience in sharing).

As I shared in an earlier post, I'm in a season of waiting, encouraged by scriptures and songs that remind me that waiting on the Lord is beneficial and many times necessary to strengthen us for the great things He has planned. Since my last post, however, baby shower invitations seem to be coming in droves, happy, pregnant women are everywhere I look, and precious and loved babies are being born. I caved momentarily under the pressure and became debilitated by my pain. I cried out to God, "I have to move on with my life. I can't live like this. I have to be content in my circumstances." A few days later (at the superbowl party), a friend of mine asked me if I heard this particular song. She played it for me and God immediately spoke through it. The lyrics encompass everything I've been experiencing, including the pain, as well as the hope that I have in Christ Jesus and His miracle working power. I have played the song repeatedly throughout this week and have been encouraged by the words of truth, hope, and faith. I finally realized that God not only wants me to trust in Him during my trial and rest in His strength and promises, but He also wants me to carry on, persevering for the promise...to serve him, worship him, and be a functional member of the body of Christ, not held down in depression and despair. The enemy wants us debilitated, unable to be a useful tool for the Kingdom. God wants us to serve Him through our pain.

So here are the lyrics (for those of you party poopers who keep the speakers on your computer turned off). Otherwise, listen and enjoy.

"I'm waiting" by John Waller

I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am hopeful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it is painful
But patiently, I will wait

I will move ahead, bold and confident
Taking every step in obedience
While I'm waiting
I will serve You While I'm waiting
I will worship While I'm waiting
I will not faint
I'll be running the race
Even while I wait I'm waiting

I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am peaceful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it's not easy
But faithfully, I will wait
Yes, I will wait

I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve you while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting on You, Lord

Thankful Thursday (or Friday...again!)

Not exactly sure why I can't seem to remember Thankful Thursday (which phonetically makes much more sense than Thankful Friday). Nevertheless, here goes my list for this week. I'm thankful for...

• Curling up in a warm blanket with a good book on a rainy day (like today!)
• Having the freedom to be out and about during the day and choose your own work hours (something I've recently discovered is quite a luxury).
• freedom.
• grace.
• having an extra refigerator in our garage when our indoor frig broke. (Sometimes it takes going without a conveniently located refrigerator to really appreciate it!)
• Jimmy's success at getting a new account which is allowing us to expand the business.

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. I Chronicles 16:24

Everywhere I go I see You

Have you ever known something, but you really didn't know it? Or you thought you knew it until you really knew it? Or thought you understood something until it ...okay, okay, you get the point. I'm doing a Bible study right now called "Left of Matthew"- really neat study on the highlights of the Old Testament. It appropriately starts with God creating the earth and it's fullness- a study on the first chapters of Genesis. I taught a semester of biology, environmental science, have been saved for a number of years, read the Bible, grew up in Sunday School...I should have a solid understanding of creationism, right? Not until I really knew it!

I've mentioned Job before in my blogging and think of his story often, particularly when everything in my life seems to be going to pot. What a man, right? To go through losing everything in your life (except your life) and never turn your back on God. That doesn't mean Job never questioned God or that he never cried out, "God, what are you doing??!!" If fact, he did...and God answered him. God answered Job with a series of questions that could be summed up, "Are you, Job, seriously questioning, me, God?" In a much lengthier version, God says, "Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth?...Who determined its measurements...or who shut in the sea with doors?" He almost sarcastically asks Job if he created and ordered this laundry list of things; if he knows the meticulous details of all of the creatures; if he can accomplish divine tasks like sending out lightning with his voice. I can hear Job now... "well, uh, uh, no, but, uh, no..." God was saying, "DUH!!! You aren't God; I am. And if I created all of these things, and master over them, what makes you think I'm not capable of mastering over the forces behind your problems?!" Great point, huh?

Okay, back to creationism...(women. we do that sometimes. belaboring the point.) So, the thing that really got me in that passage- God's answer to Job (Job 38-41) was how intricately he knew the animals. He talks about how He didn't give the ostrich wisdom or understanding, which is why she lays her eggs in the sand only covered by dust (an environment not conducive to successful egg hatching). And how the horse in all of its might and splendor, born ready for battle, is scared of a locust. (I'm sure many of us can attest to the spookiness of horses- bees, noises, trash on the ground- they're scared of anything that can't harm them ;) As I read these things and the many other details I found myself truly knowing for the first time. God really did create each of these creatures "according to their own kind". He knows what makes each of them different. After all, he designed their differences, their idiosyncrasies, their color, shape, height, purpose, life cycle, feeding patterns, behaviors... And creatures are just a portion of creation. He has a purpose and design for all weather patterns (which after teaching earth science really amazes me!)

I ended the first chapter of my new Bible study with a commitment to acknowledge God in His creation more. To remember that He created ALL of the things surrounding me and that His glory is revealed through each detail! With that in mind, I came to church this morning and a BIG grin swept across my face as we sang the following song. I looked for the lyrics on the Internet and came across this amazing video! I encourage you to take 5 minutes to watch it, listen to the words, and reflect on His greatness.

(You'll have to scroll down to my music box on the right and pause it in order to hear this song. And it might need a minute to buffer.)

Everywhere I Go, I See You

Everywhere I Go, I See You

Thankful Thursday (or Friday)

Okay, my intentions were good, but I missed the Thankful Thursday bandwagon (great idea Heather...or Heather's friend). Jimmy is out of town this weekend and here I am up at almost midnight trying to do anything but go to sleep alone (I hate that). Sounds like a good time to catch up to the Thankful Thursday bandwagon and jump on.

What am I thankful for? Hmmm...let's see.

• Getting to sleep beside my husband every night. (Had to start with that one).
• Good friends.
• Living in Florida and getting to enjoy the sun on my skin so often. (I felt it today for the first time in a while!)
• Dogs that love me and offer unconditional companionship.
• Saturdays to do whatever makes me happy (which lately has included all kinds of silly things like belly dancing cardio- Yeah!)
• Learning...always learning. "Aha" moments.

That felt good. To give thanks. So much is praiseworthy. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Phil. 4:8

"Teach me Lord, Teach me Lord, to wait"

It's funny how God works sometimes, isn't it? I've been in a slump lately- which is not my usual New Year mentality, but nevertheless, 2009 did not start the way I planned. As probably way too many of you know, Jimmy and I are eager to get pregnant again and planned to "get it on" New Year's eve and enter the new year with a happy, healthy, and SUCCESSFUL pregnancy. Unbeknownst to me, God's plan was not exactly the same. It also didn't help that January 13th, a difficult day (a difficult month), was the due date of our first baby. So, anyway, where was I?...in a slump. So, one of my great friends in Christ (love you, Kristy- what a joy to be a tool in His hands) called me the other day for a short but inspiring and loving chat that left me in total awe of our Lord and how much He loves me. She said the words of a popular Christian song, which are also from a verse in Isaiah, "our strength shall rise as we wait upon the Lord." When I got off the phone with her I began to sing the song and tears began to flow. God was meeting me in my pain right then and there. It was like he was wrapping his big, comforting hands around my heart. And in that moment I was sitting in my Daddy's arms letting Him wipe away every tear. I realized He was there all along waiting for me to rest in his comfort.

The story gets better from here... I decided to add the song to my blog playlist, but wasn't sure of the exact title or artist. I googled the words quoted above, clicked on one of the search results, and was led to the blogspot of a random family who posted the lyrics of the song in response to a great trial in their lives. Back in February of last year they lost their newborn baby boy at birth. The son that she carried and nurtured for 9 long months was not able to come home with them...and my heart ached for her. I try to not minimize my own pain, but it sure puts things in perspective when you hear something like that!

I am waiting... and learning what it means to wait upon the Lord. I've heard a few different sermons on that popular phrase from the Bible, but to me it now has a whole new meaning. To wait on the Lord is to rest in the moment of trial or uncertainty, knowing that He is ultimately in control of all things, working all things for my good, and that in a matter of His timing He will show himself strong and faithful. It's like watching a game that is head to head, waiting for the ending because you know your team will be victorious! And as I wait, my strength will rise.

-Isaiah 40: 27-31
Why do you say, O _____ (put your name here), and speak O _________, "My way is hidden from the Lord, and my just claim is passed over by my God"?

[I like to read this next part really loud with great enthusiasm ;)]
Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the Lord, the creator of the ends of the earth, neither faints nor is weary.

His understanding is unsearchable. he gives power to the weak and to those who have no might He increases strength.

Even the youth shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall.
But those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. They shall mount up on wings as eagles. They shall run and not grow weary. They shall walk and not faint.

2009 BCS National Championship Game

Last Thursday, Jimmy and I were so blessed to be invited to the National Championship game to watch the Gators school the Sooners. Here we are in our Gator garb, ready for one exciting football game! The atmosphere was electric, the fans were awesome, and the time with friends was memorable. It was an amazing experience we won't soon forget.

"Can this be real? Am I really holding tickets to the National Championship game? And I didn't have to mortgage my house to pay for them? I must take a picture!"

Tailgating

Tickets to the National Championship Game: Too much

New Gator Garb: $75

100 Hot Wings: $50

Tailgating with friends: Priceless!

Miss Donna, Me, Jimmy, Michael, Brandy, and Leon

Go Gators, Come on Gators, Get up and Go!

The view from my seat... 18 rows up, 50 yard line. I don't think it gets much better than this. If fact, I'm pretty sure it doesn't.

The #1 Florida Gators

24-14 Gators

It's Great to Be a Florida Gator!

All smiles for a victory! Here we are sporting our Gator colors, #1's, and Tebow eye blacks, which say "Phil 4:13". (Phillipians 4:13- I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.)

Happy New Year!

Jimmy and I have spent every New Year's together for the past 9 years! Jimmy actually asked me to be his wife New Year's Eve 5 years ago on Ft. Myers Beach. Fireworks, champagne, music, a blanket on the beach...It was a night to remember! Needless to say, we have many great memories celebrating New Years together.

This year instead of traveling, we decided to ring in the New Year with friends here in Lake Wales. We met up with Amanda, Ryan, precious little Gianna, Chuck, Bobby, and Brittany at the bowling alley in the mall. I'm sure it wasn't the most exciting New Year's bash, but we made the most of it and had fun with friends! We are looking forward to many great blessings and adventures in 09!

There's nothin' like ringing in the new year with an enthusiastic five year old!

Sharin' da luv

Saran and Margo (Bayer co-workers) made Christmas very special this year! I was so glad we could be a "home away from home"- a little southern grace- for these girls. Saran's family is in West Africa and Margo is from upstate New York.

My new toy!

What a great surprise! Jimmy bought me a kayak for Christmas. I'm looking forward to many great adventures in my new boat, and Lindsey helped me get it started (she was the only one willing- what a trooper)! We took the banana for a test drive in Lake Reedy. I could hardly wait to get it in the water.

Christmas- Just the two of us.

"We got a real grinner here..."
Jimmy was super excited (as you can tell) to get this softball bat for Christmas. Another gift I was thrilled to give.

A little Vanna White pose with my new gun case- looks more like a toolbox for a truck, doesn't it?! I bet you're thinking, "Wow, this chick has a really big gun!" Yeah, I'm a redneck, what can I say ;)

Christmas at Mom's

Christmas night we got together at Mom's for a delcious traditional prime rib supper!!! Yummy! The kids kept busy with tetherball and other Christmas toys. The best part was surprising mom with her new KitchenAid standing mixer! Tis better to give than to receive!

Merry Christmas!

Tuesday evening we celebrated Christmas and Austin's Birthday at Papa Hurst's; Christmas Eve- Dubose get-together at Aunt Cat's; and Christmas Day lunch at Papa's. Wow, this family really keeps me moving and on my toes! We kept Jesus the center and had a great time visiting with each other.

Elf Yourself- The Hursts

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Losing your life, over and over again...Try it, it's great!

I've never really been good at change...don't know many people who are. I am learning, though, that life is characterized by seasons, and very few things or people in your life are constant. I've been working in a seasonal job position for a couple of months now and as my time with the company is coming to an end, I'm torn between being excited about the extra time I will have for my family and to do the things I love and leaving the people, surroundings, and daily duties that have filled my calendar in the past 8 weeks. Detecting a bit of internal struggle, I asked myself tonight, "Self, what is so hard to part with?". Comfort, routine, sense of being needed... all things that keep the focus on me. Jesus spoke the difficult words, "Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it." May I never hang on so tightly to something in this life that I'm unwilling to be shaken up and rearranged for the glory of the Lord.