"I’m Letting Go " by Francesca Battistelli
My heart beats, standing on the edge
But my feet have finally left the ledge
Like an acrobat
There’s no turning back
Chorus
I’m letting go
Of the life I planned for me
And my dreams
Losing control
Of my destiny
Feels like I’m falling
and that’s what it’s like to believe
So I’m letting go
This is a giant leap of faith
Trusting and trying to embrace
The fear of the unknown
Beyond my comfort zone
ChorusI’m letting go
Of the life I planned for me
And my dreams
Losing control
Of my destiny
Feels like I’m falling
and that’s what it’s like to believe
So I’m letting go
Giving in to your gravity
Knowing You are holding me
I’m not afraid
Feels like I’m falling
and that’s what it’s like to believe
Feels like I’m falling
and this is the life for me
Friday, May 22, 2009
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Proof that I'm still alive
About a month ago I spoke at a Mother/Daughter event at Trinity Baptist! Paula and Erin tagged along to support me for a quick 24 hour roadtrip. We hopped out of the car to grab some pics with a few remaining Texas Bluebonnets.
I'm sorry for the silence lately. Things are ABSOLUTELY CRAZY in our world. We are both working like mad and I've been super run down by these Houston allergies!
I promise to update more. :)
Love,
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
On Behalf of Miss California
I didn't watch the pageant but I have heard all about it the past few mornings on the Today Show (my make-up-application-and-final-cup-of-coffee entertainment each morning).
Let me offer an opinion I have YET to hear from a single media outlet...
First, let's look at the facts. This is EXACTLY what was said:
Perez Hilton asked Miss California, Carrie Prejean the following question:
"Vermont recently became the fourth state to legalize same sex marriage. Do you think every state should follow suit? Why or why not?"
Miss California's response:
"Well I think it's great that Americans are able to choose one or the other. Um, we live in a land that you can choose same sex marriage or opposite marriage and, you know what, in my country and in, in my family, I think that I believe that a marriage should be between a man and a woman," Carrie said to a mix of boos and applause. "No offense to anybody out there. But that's how I was raised and that's how I think that it should be between a man and a woman."
The uproar over her response has been incredible. Perez and many other media outlets (including Fox News) and blogs across the nation are outraged that she would say such a thing.
First, let me say that if she had said the opposite, if she had said that she was pro-same sex marriage she'd be the hero across the nation (at least to the media). But she didn't. So what is their response? "She should have left her opinion to herself and leave her religion and personal opinion out of it."
Seriously? The question asked what her personal opinion was. She actual chose to say a pageant/politically correct disclaimer by saying that she thinks that it is great that we live in a country where you have the right to chose. Then she answered the question, but "I think..." and then shared her opinion that marriage should be between a man and a woman.
Growing up being raised by an independent mom and a democrat step-mom, I tend to have a bit more liberal views than most Christians when it comes to political issues. However the issue right now isn't same sex marriage. The issue is allowing people-- on both sides-- to have the opportunity to really share what they think.
So for all of us-- Christian or Jew or Muslim or Atheist, Male or Female, Straight or Gay, Skinny or Overweight, US Citizen or Immigrant-- why don't we all start listening to one another? We don't have to agree. WE DON'T EVEN HAVE TO BE TOLERANT. But we should at least hear the other side out and... respond in love.
Let me offer an opinion I have YET to hear from a single media outlet...
First, let's look at the facts. This is EXACTLY what was said:
Perez Hilton asked Miss California, Carrie Prejean the following question:
"Vermont recently became the fourth state to legalize same sex marriage. Do you think every state should follow suit? Why or why not?"
Miss California's response:
"Well I think it's great that Americans are able to choose one or the other. Um, we live in a land that you can choose same sex marriage or opposite marriage and, you know what, in my country and in, in my family, I think that I believe that a marriage should be between a man and a woman," Carrie said to a mix of boos and applause. "No offense to anybody out there. But that's how I was raised and that's how I think that it should be between a man and a woman."
The uproar over her response has been incredible. Perez and many other media outlets (including Fox News) and blogs across the nation are outraged that she would say such a thing.
First, let me say that if she had said the opposite, if she had said that she was pro-same sex marriage she'd be the hero across the nation (at least to the media). But she didn't. So what is their response? "She should have left her opinion to herself and leave her religion and personal opinion out of it."
Seriously? The question asked what her personal opinion was. She actual chose to say a pageant/politically correct disclaimer by saying that she thinks that it is great that we live in a country where you have the right to chose. Then she answered the question, but "I think..." and then shared her opinion that marriage should be between a man and a woman.
Growing up being raised by an independent mom and a democrat step-mom, I tend to have a bit more liberal views than most Christians when it comes to political issues. However the issue right now isn't same sex marriage. The issue is allowing people-- on both sides-- to have the opportunity to really share what they think.
So for all of us-- Christian or Jew or Muslim or Atheist, Male or Female, Straight or Gay, Skinny or Overweight, US Citizen or Immigrant-- why don't we all start listening to one another? We don't have to agree. WE DON'T EVEN HAVE TO BE TOLERANT. But we should at least hear the other side out and... respond in love.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Balancing the Extremes
I can be an extreme person. In my brother's "Man of Honor" toast at our wedding he said it perfectly: "When Becky does something she goes all out... that can be frustrating at times." That comment ensued lots of laughter, but it is true.
I either do something 150% percent or not at all. This might seem like a blessing and when I am going for something good, it is. But if I need to commit to something and I haven't, it is a curse.
Two examples:
1. Hanging my clothes up: I either hang them all up-- I mean color coded by type (tank, short, 3/4, long, etc) OR they lay on the guest bedroom (a.k.a. my changing room) bed until I wear them again.
2. Diets/Lifestyle changes: I go all out and don't cheat once OR I last 24 hours and go back to square one b/c I ate a tablespoon of something "bad."
So last week I had enough with my health issues and had enough with being at this weight. I used to do this detox called the Master Cleanse. It had always had given me fabulous results with my health (no flare ups/issues for months). And a bonus was I'd always lose weight and if I ate right afterwards, I'd even keep it off. So Wednesday I started the detox. The first 3 days are always terrible. By terrible I mean you have chewing withdraws, upset stomach, headaches, etc. Not a fun experience-- but you are getting the junk out.
Well at 1am that morning (still up convinced something is about to come up) I was so convicted. By the way, I love when the Lord keeps you up or wakes you up to teach you something. I always know I need to listen-- He is demanding my full attention.
I just felt like He was telling me to stop it with the extremes-- balance is needed in my life. In all areas of my life, not just my health.
I realized that I wanted an extreme result... and I wanted it extremely quickly. Yes my intentions weren't all bad. I want more than anything to not have to deal with my health issues. It wasn't a bad thing to want to detox my body. And it wasn't an even bad thing to want to lose some weight. But (for me) I need to do it in balance.
I decided I would talk to Erin DuBroc (genius nutritionist and friend) when I got to work that next morning. Y'all guess who was in my office that morning? Yep, Erin. She was dropping something off for Debbie. As soon as I saw her I said: "OK OK Lord, I'll listen to whatever she says." I asked her about detoxes and what her thoughts were. She confirmed what I had thought: they just aren't necessary. If you treat your body right, it will naturally detox itself. And then she said some other things I needed to hear (conviction meets encouragement). :)
Anyway, I am so thankful I started the cleanse because I felt like it did cleanse me out-- I needed to be cleansed from my extremes. I need to find proper balance in all areas of life: my walk with the Lord, my marriage, my friendships, my job, my health... everything. So that is what I am working towards. It has been a refreshing 5 days.
I either do something 150% percent or not at all. This might seem like a blessing and when I am going for something good, it is. But if I need to commit to something and I haven't, it is a curse.
Two examples:
1. Hanging my clothes up: I either hang them all up-- I mean color coded by type (tank, short, 3/4, long, etc) OR they lay on the guest bedroom (a.k.a. my changing room) bed until I wear them again.
2. Diets/Lifestyle changes: I go all out and don't cheat once OR I last 24 hours and go back to square one b/c I ate a tablespoon of something "bad."
So last week I had enough with my health issues and had enough with being at this weight. I used to do this detox called the Master Cleanse. It had always had given me fabulous results with my health (no flare ups/issues for months). And a bonus was I'd always lose weight and if I ate right afterwards, I'd even keep it off. So Wednesday I started the detox. The first 3 days are always terrible. By terrible I mean you have chewing withdraws, upset stomach, headaches, etc. Not a fun experience-- but you are getting the junk out.
Well at 1am that morning (still up convinced something is about to come up) I was so convicted. By the way, I love when the Lord keeps you up or wakes you up to teach you something. I always know I need to listen-- He is demanding my full attention.
I just felt like He was telling me to stop it with the extremes-- balance is needed in my life. In all areas of my life, not just my health.
I realized that I wanted an extreme result... and I wanted it extremely quickly. Yes my intentions weren't all bad. I want more than anything to not have to deal with my health issues. It wasn't a bad thing to want to detox my body. And it wasn't an even bad thing to want to lose some weight. But (for me) I need to do it in balance.
I decided I would talk to Erin DuBroc (genius nutritionist and friend) when I got to work that next morning. Y'all guess who was in my office that morning? Yep, Erin. She was dropping something off for Debbie. As soon as I saw her I said: "OK OK Lord, I'll listen to whatever she says." I asked her about detoxes and what her thoughts were. She confirmed what I had thought: they just aren't necessary. If you treat your body right, it will naturally detox itself. And then she said some other things I needed to hear (conviction meets encouragement). :)
Anyway, I am so thankful I started the cleanse because I felt like it did cleanse me out-- I needed to be cleansed from my extremes. I need to find proper balance in all areas of life: my walk with the Lord, my marriage, my friendships, my job, my health... everything. So that is what I am working towards. It has been a refreshing 5 days.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
27 years ago today...
I was born. I am 27 years old today (Cue chorus of "Happy Birthday" here).
I haven't hit that stage in life where I am depressed that I am getting older. So far life has proved that each year gets better, so I'm holding out that this year will be even better than 26.
Although that will be a pretty hard to do-- 26 was an unforgettable year.
This was the year that I also hit being a Christian for 10 years. But I can honestly say that my walk has grown more in this past year than all other 9 years combined. I mean it. I think I am coming into my own faith like I've never done before. I am no longer trying to copy the faith of others, but simply pursue Christ with my everything. I've embraced that my life will not look the way I thought it would or should. For the first time I have stepped out in faith without having to place fleece out for every decision. I trusting His leading and knowing His voice. Not that I have it all together, who does (see Moses, Paul, David, etc.)? But I know I am pursuing Christ, loving Christ and knowing Christ more.
I can't wait to see what He does with 27.
So if you could give me a piece of advice for 27, what would you say?
(Even though I look like an alien here, I like this picture. It's proof that I was born blond. Do you think I was working up a present for mom in my diaper?).
I haven't hit that stage in life where I am depressed that I am getting older. So far life has proved that each year gets better, so I'm holding out that this year will be even better than 26.
Although that will be a pretty hard to do-- 26 was an unforgettable year.
This was the year that I also hit being a Christian for 10 years. But I can honestly say that my walk has grown more in this past year than all other 9 years combined. I mean it. I think I am coming into my own faith like I've never done before. I am no longer trying to copy the faith of others, but simply pursue Christ with my everything. I've embraced that my life will not look the way I thought it would or should. For the first time I have stepped out in faith without having to place fleece out for every decision. I trusting His leading and knowing His voice. Not that I have it all together, who does (see Moses, Paul, David, etc.)? But I know I am pursuing Christ, loving Christ and knowing Christ more.
I can't wait to see what He does with 27.
So if you could give me a piece of advice for 27, what would you say?
Comments: My dad and Papaw, both readers of the blog, asked how to leave a comment. So, I thought I'd also leave some instructions here. :) At the bottom of this blog entry, just under my signature/name, click on the word "comments." Then enter what you want to say in the box under "leave my comment." If you don't have a google account, just click "anonymous." However, if you click "anonymous" please put your name in the comment so I know who it was. Then click "publish my comment." And you did it! Hope that helps!
(Even though I look like an alien here, I like this picture. It's proof that I was born blond. Do you think I was working up a present for mom in my diaper?).
Monday, April 13, 2009
A Timely WORD!
I woke up this morning frustrated. I've been so disappointed in myself with some issues. I knew this was no morning for snoozing (even though I had just been asleep 5 hours when that alarm when blazing)-- I desperately needed prayer and the Word! So I got up, unaware that God was about to reveal some things to me...
What I realized (and really already knew) is that most of my frustrations are all rooted in a lack of self-control. So I proceeded to look up every verse that referenced self-control. I found many that had been taken out of context for years, but I also found many that I am clinging to with all my hope.
I was becoming more aware of this last week and I started to wear this ring as an outward reminder to myself to surrender this to Christ:
What I realized (and really already knew) is that most of my frustrations are all rooted in a lack of self-control. So I proceeded to look up every verse that referenced self-control. I found many that had been taken out of context for years, but I also found many that I am clinging to with all my hope.
I was becoming more aware of this last week and I started to wear this ring as an outward reminder to myself to surrender this to Christ:
But by weeks end it had become just another accessory.
But this morning I longed for it to mean something, or find something else that would be a reminder to me of what the Lord was teaching me about self-control.
Y'all, I LOVE IT WHEN THE LORD DOES THIS...
The ring has inscribed on it Ruth 1:16, "For where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God."
Realizing that I was about to stretch a scripture to meet my needs (taking it out of context), I double-checked the commentary to see what this was referring to.
The commentary sent me straight to 2 Corinthians 6:16, 7:1: "For we are the temple of the living God; as God said, I will make my dwelling among them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people... since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God."
I couldn't believe what I was reading. The ring that is now on my right hand is the perfect symbol to the commitment that I am making to the Lord-- that I would prepare myself as His temple-- body and spirit.
The other really sweet connection point with this ring is the fact that it talks about Ruth being willing to GO. GO has been the theme word of my life the past 6 months. It is so appropriate that the Lord would use that word to catch my attention. I want to GO wherever He leads... however He leads.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
NAME DRAWING: Calling all Green Thumbs!
Chris and I just had our front yard landscaped and back yard fenced in.
Our patient yard was a hot, hot mess before. So the past two weeks we've had some things done: raised the level (it was a foot and a half lower than it should be), installed sprinkler system, fence (there wasn't one in the back), extended our driveway (2 feet on the side), installed a big bed that runs the width of the house in front and a bed along our neighbors gate (they have a gate around the whole perimeters of their house... definite eye sore). It looks beautiful! I can't tell you how happy we are and how much more time we've spent outside in just a week! :) I'll post pictures soon... I think (I'm still not sure if I want the whole world to know what my house looks like).
So now for the reason for this post:
I need help! I am NOT a gardener by any means but I love being outdoors and think this is something I'd like to take up.
So, I'm calling for any tips you want to share! Tips on ways to keep it up, tips for seasonal and annuals plants and flowers that I can add to it (right now it is very basic) or anything else you can think of to help a sister out.
EVERYONE THAT POSTS A COMMENT WILL HAVE THEIR NAME ENTERED INTO A DRAWING FOR A SURPRISE GIFT ($50 VALUE). :)
Post away friends.
Our patient yard was a hot, hot mess before. So the past two weeks we've had some things done: raised the level (it was a foot and a half lower than it should be), installed sprinkler system, fence (there wasn't one in the back), extended our driveway (2 feet on the side), installed a big bed that runs the width of the house in front and a bed along our neighbors gate (they have a gate around the whole perimeters of their house... definite eye sore). It looks beautiful! I can't tell you how happy we are and how much more time we've spent outside in just a week! :) I'll post pictures soon... I think (I'm still not sure if I want the whole world to know what my house looks like).
So now for the reason for this post:
I need help! I am NOT a gardener by any means but I love being outdoors and think this is something I'd like to take up.
So, I'm calling for any tips you want to share! Tips on ways to keep it up, tips for seasonal and annuals plants and flowers that I can add to it (right now it is very basic) or anything else you can think of to help a sister out.
EVERYONE THAT POSTS A COMMENT WILL HAVE THEIR NAME ENTERED INTO A DRAWING FOR A SURPRISE GIFT ($50 VALUE). :)
Post away friends.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Foot "Problem"
So last Thursday night my foot starting hurting really bad, by Saturday I felt like crying every time I stepped on it. So weird. I noticed though that when I walked on my toes (ball of foot) the pain was gone. So yesterday I thought I'd try wearing heels since it felt better to walk on my toes. PAIN FREE. So my foot hurts when I walk flat, but feels fine in heels.
Isn't that so weird?! I think this is a good problem. :)
Isn't that so weird?! I think this is a good problem. :)
Monday, April 6, 2009
Dear Winter,
You and I both know that I live in Houston because I really don't like the cold. I don't like feeling like my bones need to thaw out once I'm inside. I don't like having to wear 12 layers of clothes. You and I both know I love that summer lasts 6 months in Houston. You and I also know that I so treausure those 2 months of fall and 2 of spring. Winter, you and I deal with one another for the 2 months we have together. It's not that I don't love you, I do. But the truth is, it's April. You've stayed here long enough. It's time for you to go on your way now.
Thank you for your consideration,
Thank you for your consideration,
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Happy Birthday Chris!!!
I gave this to Chris on his birthday (Monday, March 23rd), he said he wanted in to go on the blog... so here you go friends:
Chris,
I haven’t known you 25 years, but 2.5 years has given me more than enough time to love a lot about you. Here 25 of my favorite things I am thankful for in you:
1. You pursue Christ even harder than you pursue me. This has always been true. From day one you said I was your number 2 and Christ was the one.
2. You wake up early every morning and pray, journal and study the Word. You have challenged me to make my time with the Lord an even greater priority and necessity.
3. You watch America’s Next Top Model and Project Runway with me. You are even able to understand what Tyra means when she says “this is fierce” (and does that thing with her eyes).
4. You have taken the trash out every time.
5. You have been have allowed God to stretch our faith… and our plans.
6. You are the world’s best friend—to me and others. You listen better than anyone I know.
7. You can do anything you set your mind to. Anything. It amazes me what you are able to accomplish.
8. You do such a good job managing our finances. I have never seen a system like yours (now ours). I am so thankful for your discipline and commitment to “live like no one else.”
9. I love it when you dance. I love the laugh that you have when you dance (because we both know you and I can only dance in the privacy of our own home).
10. I love your passion for the St. Louis Cardinals. You are unlike most sports fans. You love those Cardinals when they are winning World Series, but you love them just as much when they aren’t.
11. I love how hard you work at your job. I love your attitude about it. You work hard, but family always comes first. When you are at work, you work… hard. You live out Col 3:23- “Work as if for the Lord and not for man.” I pray daily that your hard work would stand out to your co-works as a testament of your love for Jesus.
12. I love how you love music. I love to hear you sing worship songs when you don’t think I can hear you. You love Jesus and love to sing songs to him.
13. Your organizational skills amaze me. From your label maker to your color coated closet to your file folders to the way everything has a place, a right place.
14. You hold fast to the fact that Kisers aren’t like everyone else. We don’t do things because other people do them.
15. I love how much you believe in me. You will do anything to see me fulfill exactly what God has called me to do: love him, love you, love our family and love women. Thank you for all the sacrifices you make for me (and our future family).
16. I love it when you put your hand on my cheek. It still melts my heart.
17. I love how you are a man I can point my single girlfriends (young and our age) to look towards you as a standard. I love how the way you’ve loved me has raised the standard for them.
18. I love your eyes. I still get lost in them when you look at me.
19. I love when you order me ice tea. I know you think it is a total waste of money, but you know I love it. The $1.95 you spend on that single order means so much to me.
20. I love serving with you in the college ministry. It has been so fun studying Romans together and even helping you prepare when you taught in Sunday Bible Study. I love how you want to ministry to college students because you want them to learn to love Jesus like you did in college.
21. I that you aren’t afraid to admit when you are wrong. You are so quick to ask for forgiveness when you’ve done something wrong. And so quick to love me when I do the same.
22. I love how close you are to your family… and mine. I always hoped I’d marry someone that had a close family. And I always hoped someone could love my crazy “all American” family too.
23. I love your passion, not for politics, but for America to be as it should, as it was created to be. I love how you really know what you believe about politics. You don’t just chose a party. You have studied the facts more than anyone I know. I hope that America is lucky enough to have you as a part of the political system some day, somehow.
24. I love how you have saved every card you have ever received. I feel certain that this one will be placed in the box along with every other birthday card you’ve received since your 5th birthday. You treasure words and I love that.
25. I love your thirst for knowledge. You have a 25 books at time you are trying to read and constantly learning more. You hate wasting time with TV or other time wasters. You want to use every minute to live life and learn about life.
And one to grow on…
26. I love seeing you with kids (the Skaggs, the Kohlers, the Tricketts and other families we love so much). I love how you give them your full attention. I love how you discipline with love. It melts my heart to see you loving on them. You are going to be the best daddy one day.
My prayer for you is that you would love God more this year. That He would open up doors for you with your family, with your co-workers and in the college community to point others closer to Him. I beg that you would know and love Jesus deeper than you ever have before. I beg that I would be a blessing and encouragement to you always. I pray that the Spirit would allow you to see the fruit of your labor and also give you encouragement along the way.
I love you so much Chris. I am so thankful to be your wife.
Happy Birthday!
Chris,
I haven’t known you 25 years, but 2.5 years has given me more than enough time to love a lot about you. Here 25 of my favorite things I am thankful for in you:
1. You pursue Christ even harder than you pursue me. This has always been true. From day one you said I was your number 2 and Christ was the one.
2. You wake up early every morning and pray, journal and study the Word. You have challenged me to make my time with the Lord an even greater priority and necessity.
3. You watch America’s Next Top Model and Project Runway with me. You are even able to understand what Tyra means when she says “this is fierce” (and does that thing with her eyes).
4. You have taken the trash out every time.
5. You have been have allowed God to stretch our faith… and our plans.
6. You are the world’s best friend—to me and others. You listen better than anyone I know.
7. You can do anything you set your mind to. Anything. It amazes me what you are able to accomplish.
8. You do such a good job managing our finances. I have never seen a system like yours (now ours). I am so thankful for your discipline and commitment to “live like no one else.”
9. I love it when you dance. I love the laugh that you have when you dance (because we both know you and I can only dance in the privacy of our own home).
10. I love your passion for the St. Louis Cardinals. You are unlike most sports fans. You love those Cardinals when they are winning World Series, but you love them just as much when they aren’t.
11. I love how hard you work at your job. I love your attitude about it. You work hard, but family always comes first. When you are at work, you work… hard. You live out Col 3:23- “Work as if for the Lord and not for man.” I pray daily that your hard work would stand out to your co-works as a testament of your love for Jesus.
12. I love how you love music. I love to hear you sing worship songs when you don’t think I can hear you. You love Jesus and love to sing songs to him.
13. Your organizational skills amaze me. From your label maker to your color coated closet to your file folders to the way everything has a place, a right place.
14. You hold fast to the fact that Kisers aren’t like everyone else. We don’t do things because other people do them.
15. I love how much you believe in me. You will do anything to see me fulfill exactly what God has called me to do: love him, love you, love our family and love women. Thank you for all the sacrifices you make for me (and our future family).
16. I love it when you put your hand on my cheek. It still melts my heart.
17. I love how you are a man I can point my single girlfriends (young and our age) to look towards you as a standard. I love how the way you’ve loved me has raised the standard for them.
18. I love your eyes. I still get lost in them when you look at me.
19. I love when you order me ice tea. I know you think it is a total waste of money, but you know I love it. The $1.95 you spend on that single order means so much to me.
20. I love serving with you in the college ministry. It has been so fun studying Romans together and even helping you prepare when you taught in Sunday Bible Study. I love how you want to ministry to college students because you want them to learn to love Jesus like you did in college.
21. I that you aren’t afraid to admit when you are wrong. You are so quick to ask for forgiveness when you’ve done something wrong. And so quick to love me when I do the same.
22. I love how close you are to your family… and mine. I always hoped I’d marry someone that had a close family. And I always hoped someone could love my crazy “all American” family too.
23. I love your passion, not for politics, but for America to be as it should, as it was created to be. I love how you really know what you believe about politics. You don’t just chose a party. You have studied the facts more than anyone I know. I hope that America is lucky enough to have you as a part of the political system some day, somehow.
24. I love how you have saved every card you have ever received. I feel certain that this one will be placed in the box along with every other birthday card you’ve received since your 5th birthday. You treasure words and I love that.
25. I love your thirst for knowledge. You have a 25 books at time you are trying to read and constantly learning more. You hate wasting time with TV or other time wasters. You want to use every minute to live life and learn about life.
And one to grow on…
26. I love seeing you with kids (the Skaggs, the Kohlers, the Tricketts and other families we love so much). I love how you give them your full attention. I love how you discipline with love. It melts my heart to see you loving on them. You are going to be the best daddy one day.
My prayer for you is that you would love God more this year. That He would open up doors for you with your family, with your co-workers and in the college community to point others closer to Him. I beg that you would know and love Jesus deeper than you ever have before. I beg that I would be a blessing and encouragement to you always. I pray that the Spirit would allow you to see the fruit of your labor and also give you encouragement along the way.
I love you so much Chris. I am so thankful to be your wife.
Happy Birthday!
Friday, March 20, 2009
New Find: Jimmy Needham
Chris heard Jimmy Needham the other day on KSBJ and was so impressed. He pulled up his website last night and we were blown away by his vocals, the depth of lyrics and the overall quality of his music.
Here is a song he wrote for his wife:
Chris and I were bummed we just came across this song. Our whole theme for our wedding was "two become one." Anyone looking for a first dance song, here you go friends! Maybe we'll have it at our 50th anniversary party (only 48 1/2 years to wait). :)
Y'all have a great weekend! I'm going to be a true Houstonian and hit up the rodeo before it giddies up out of town. Yeehaw! (I can't believe I just said that. All you non-Texans are thinking that we all really talk like that. We only talk like that when we actually ride our horses to work that day, but that's only once a week.)
Here is a song he wrote for his wife:
Chris and I were bummed we just came across this song. Our whole theme for our wedding was "two become one." Anyone looking for a first dance song, here you go friends! Maybe we'll have it at our 50th anniversary party (only 48 1/2 years to wait). :)
Y'all have a great weekend! I'm going to be a true Houstonian and hit up the rodeo before it giddies up out of town. Yeehaw! (I can't believe I just said that. All you non-Texans are thinking that we all really talk like that. We only talk like that when we actually ride our horses to work that day, but that's only once a week.)
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Brave
If you haven't read "Chasing Daylight or Rabbits?," read that first to better understand why this song stuck out to me so much.
I heard this Brave by Nicole Nordeman on Pandora today. She is one of my favorite Christian Artists, but the lyrics have never strung my hearts cords like the did today. This is my heart beat right now. I want to be BRAVE to live a life that is "no longer status quo."
Really hear the words (even if you've listened to them a million times before).
Brave by Nichole Nordeman
The gate is wide
The road is paved in moderation
The crowd is kind and quick to pull you in
Welcome to the middle ground
You're safe and sound and
Until now it's where I've been
'Cause it's been fear that ties me down to everything
But it's been love, Your love, that cuts the strings
So long status quo
I think I just let go
You make me want to be brave
The way it always was
Is no longer good enough
You make me want to be brave
Brave, brave
I am small
And I speak when I'm spoken to
But I am willing to risk it all
I say Your name
Just Your name and I'm ready to jump
Even ready to fall...
Why did I take this vow of compromise?
Why did I try to keep it all inside?
So long status quo
I think I just let go
You make me want to be brave
The way it always was
Is no longer good enough
You make me want to be brave
Brave, brave
I've never known a fire that didn't begin with a flame
Every storm will start with just a drop of rain
But if you believe in me
That changes everything
So long, I'm gone
So long status quo
I think I just let go
You make me want to be brave
I wanna be brave
The way it always was
Is no longer good enough
You make me want to be brave
Brave, brave
You can listen to it here:
I heard this Brave by Nicole Nordeman on Pandora today. She is one of my favorite Christian Artists, but the lyrics have never strung my hearts cords like the did today. This is my heart beat right now. I want to be BRAVE to live a life that is "no longer status quo."
Really hear the words (even if you've listened to them a million times before).
Brave by Nichole Nordeman
The gate is wide
The road is paved in moderation
The crowd is kind and quick to pull you in
Welcome to the middle ground
You're safe and sound and
Until now it's where I've been
'Cause it's been fear that ties me down to everything
But it's been love, Your love, that cuts the strings
So long status quo
I think I just let go
You make me want to be brave
The way it always was
Is no longer good enough
You make me want to be brave
Brave, brave
I am small
And I speak when I'm spoken to
But I am willing to risk it all
I say Your name
Just Your name and I'm ready to jump
Even ready to fall...
Why did I take this vow of compromise?
Why did I try to keep it all inside?
So long status quo
I think I just let go
You make me want to be brave
The way it always was
Is no longer good enough
You make me want to be brave
Brave, brave
I've never known a fire that didn't begin with a flame
Every storm will start with just a drop of rain
But if you believe in me
That changes everything
So long, I'm gone
So long status quo
I think I just let go
You make me want to be brave
I wanna be brave
The way it always was
Is no longer good enough
You make me want to be brave
Brave, brave
You can listen to it here:
Chasing Daylight or Rabbits?
I love reading. (Which if you are a part of my family you might be shocked by this statement. Growing up I loved reading books that were enjoyable or applicable to where I was in life. So school books weren’t so much a priority… unfortunately.)
Well a few weeks ago Steven Knox (the college pastor at HFBC) recommended that I read Chasing Daylight by Erwin McManus. NEVER IN MY LIFE HAS A BOOK CHANGED MY LIFE (other than the Bible of course). I typically knock out a book every few weeks. It has been 3 weeks and I’m just starting chapter 4.
Every page brings conviction, freedom, and inspiration.
This has been an incredible (sometimes incredibly good and sometimes incredibly not so good) season of my life. The Lord has been working in me as I’ve never experienced over the past 6 months. A lot of that is really praying through what His plans are for my life—what am I “called” to do, what job should I have, where should we live, when is it time to have kids, what should we do with our finances… the decisions/thoughts never end and the faith steps are starting to begin…
The first three chapters will give you an idea of what I’ve been learning:
Chapter 1—Choices: Choose to Live
Chapter 2—Initiative: Just Do Something
Chapter 3—Uncertainty: Know You Don’t Know
As a Christian we make our main goal to discern God’s will for our life. We do this, often times, over living to bring Him glory in the here and now. We are so future focused and want to do the right thing that we miss Paul’s vision of “to live is Christ.”
I’ve decided that I am going to live life. Really live it.
What is funny is before I became a Christian that was one of my biggest reasons for not wanting to be a Christian. I saw the way most Christians lived and I didn’t want that boring, goody-two-shoes life. I wanted adventure, risk, and passion. I thought the only way to have that was to experience the world. What a limited perspective I had.
To live life, I don’t need to experience more of the world; I need to experience more of Christ.
I need to stop living my life to be like other Christians and start living my life to be more like Jesus.
This morning as I was praying that I would “chase daylight” today I felt convicted. Convicted that most of life up to this point I wasn’t really “chasing daylight” (even though I thought I was), I was really just chasing rabbits.
My hope, my prayer and encouragement for you today is that you would live life— “chasing daylight.” Our time on earth is brief. What will you/we do with it? What rabbits do you need to stop chasing?
You can read more about the book and/or purchase it here.
Well a few weeks ago Steven Knox (the college pastor at HFBC) recommended that I read Chasing Daylight by Erwin McManus. NEVER IN MY LIFE HAS A BOOK CHANGED MY LIFE (other than the Bible of course). I typically knock out a book every few weeks. It has been 3 weeks and I’m just starting chapter 4.
Every page brings conviction, freedom, and inspiration.
This has been an incredible (sometimes incredibly good and sometimes incredibly not so good) season of my life. The Lord has been working in me as I’ve never experienced over the past 6 months. A lot of that is really praying through what His plans are for my life—what am I “called” to do, what job should I have, where should we live, when is it time to have kids, what should we do with our finances… the decisions/thoughts never end and the faith steps are starting to begin…
The first three chapters will give you an idea of what I’ve been learning:
Chapter 1—Choices: Choose to Live
Chapter 2—Initiative: Just Do Something
Chapter 3—Uncertainty: Know You Don’t Know
As a Christian we make our main goal to discern God’s will for our life. We do this, often times, over living to bring Him glory in the here and now. We are so future focused and want to do the right thing that we miss Paul’s vision of “to live is Christ.”
I’ve decided that I am going to live life. Really live it.
What is funny is before I became a Christian that was one of my biggest reasons for not wanting to be a Christian. I saw the way most Christians lived and I didn’t want that boring, goody-two-shoes life. I wanted adventure, risk, and passion. I thought the only way to have that was to experience the world. What a limited perspective I had.
To live life, I don’t need to experience more of the world; I need to experience more of Christ.
I need to stop living my life to be like other Christians and start living my life to be more like Jesus.
This morning as I was praying that I would “chase daylight” today I felt convicted. Convicted that most of life up to this point I wasn’t really “chasing daylight” (even though I thought I was), I was really just chasing rabbits.
My hope, my prayer and encouragement for you today is that you would live life— “chasing daylight.” Our time on earth is brief. What will you/we do with it? What rabbits do you need to stop chasing?
You can read more about the book and/or purchase it here.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
I got lucky!
Or for you Christians who really can't handle that word... I got blessed! :)
Exactly two years ago today Chris and I had our first kiss!
It was a Saturday and like most weekends we found ourselves at Hermann Park walking around the Japanese Gardens (btw: if you are in Houston and haven't been out there, it's a must). We had walked around the gardens already once. I had an idea that something might be about to happen, he was acting a little different than usual (after more than 4 months of dating we were past the awkward moment stage). He lead me up to a bench on the top of a mountain over looking the waterfall and pond, tucked away on a tree path. We sat on the bench and he kissed me on the forehead then on each cheek and then... he kissed me! It was beautiful. Definite butterfly moment.
We went back to that same park for our engagement pictures, here are a few on that bench:
That was exactly two years ago and even after more than a year of marraige I still love kissing my man!
Sunday, March 15, 2009
For Sweet Emery
The day after Nils and Katie found out "Bean" was a girl, Emery Jewel Smith, this aunt and uncle went straight to Target to treat that sweet thing to her first shopping spree. This is what I narrowed it down to. But y'all I had at least 3 times as much stuff picked out. We had too much fun. I kept making Chris hold the clothes and pretend Emery was there. I mapped out the seasons and what months she would be to make sure it would all go well. I tried not to get to much pink because I know others will go crazy with that color. I have been waiting weeks to post this, but I wanted to see Katie's face first.
I can't even imagine how much more I'll love our kids. I'm so crazy about this little one already! July 20th better come soon! :)
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Wanted: New Music
I am begging for comments of your favorite music right now. I don't care what genre of music-- I am just in need of some new tunes! Please let me know what's your favorite right now (even if it might be an obvious answer).
Thank you!
(written on behalf of Becky's Ipod)
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Young Men's Christian Association
I'm sorry I've been such a bad blogger. As I've mentioned in previous posts there is SO MUCH going on right now. All really good, but all really time and emotionally/spiritually consuming.
But yesterday I was listening to a local radio station and they had someone from the Y.M.C.A. giving some tips and it made me remember a really funny story about the Y.M.C.A....
In 2004 Karley and I lived in downtown Fort Worth doing Apartment Life. We loved the location! Fort Worth has the feel of a small town, but a really fun (and surprisingly, trendy) downtown. So we'd often walk through downtown to do various things.
Well one day I said the ultimate blond statement. Seriously I have never been so blond.
We passed this old building and it had a sign: "Young Men's Christian Association."
Thrilled beyond belief I started screaming with joy.
I immediately turn to Kar and said, "We have got to hang out here more!" (Kar is giving me a funny look. I assume she's just uncertain, so I decide to convince her more) "Think how great it would be. We could just hang out here and then we could meet young Christian men!"
She is now dying laughing. I'm totally confused as to why she isn't awarding me with a trophy for best idea ever. Not to mention my sleuth detective skills in seeing the plaque on the wall about the association.
She turns to me and barely can get it out through, now tears and, laughter: "Becky, you do realize that is the Y.M.C.A.?!"
Totally shocked and majorly disappointed I confess that I (obviously) had not a clue. And then joined her in laughter.
Fess up: Do you have a "blond moment"you'd like to share?
But yesterday I was listening to a local radio station and they had someone from the Y.M.C.A. giving some tips and it made me remember a really funny story about the Y.M.C.A....
In 2004 Karley and I lived in downtown Fort Worth doing Apartment Life. We loved the location! Fort Worth has the feel of a small town, but a really fun (and surprisingly, trendy) downtown. So we'd often walk through downtown to do various things.
Well one day I said the ultimate blond statement. Seriously I have never been so blond.
We passed this old building and it had a sign: "Young Men's Christian Association."
Thrilled beyond belief I started screaming with joy.
I immediately turn to Kar and said, "We have got to hang out here more!" (Kar is giving me a funny look. I assume she's just uncertain, so I decide to convince her more) "Think how great it would be. We could just hang out here and then we could meet young Christian men!"
She is now dying laughing. I'm totally confused as to why she isn't awarding me with a trophy for best idea ever. Not to mention my sleuth detective skills in seeing the plaque on the wall about the association.
She turns to me and barely can get it out through, now tears and, laughter: "Becky, you do realize that is the Y.M.C.A.?!"
Totally shocked and majorly disappointed I confess that I (obviously) had not a clue. And then joined her in laughter.
Fess up: Do you have a "blond moment"you'd like to share?
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Kurt Kiser -- new website!
My father-in-law has stepped out in faith to become a motivational speaker. If you know of any church, ministry, school, business or event that is looking for a speaker-- let them know to check him out!
Monday, March 9, 2009
Register for Aid Sudan 5K!
Houston's First Baptist Church is sponosoring the Aid Sudan 5K (walk or run) and Kids 1K on Sunday, April 25th. Check out the details here and then register here.
This is such a great event-- all proceeds go to support Aid Sudan, and it's a great opportunity to show off your running skills or leisurely walk with friends ands family.
Plus, this is one of the events that I take the lead on-- so you can check me out in action! ;)
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