I have decided to abandon the blogger ship- and have headed to wordpress.
Check me out: http://inthethreshold.wordpress.com/
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Husbands
Help mate on our temporal journey
Underestimated and devalued in society
Simply male
Best friend to those who show themselves friendly
Accountable in the Kingdom
Not driven by emotion or dramatics
Dedicated to meeting the needs of his partner
Supportive, when being supported
My husband is defined through this acrostic. I realize that many don't have the same experiences, perceptions or ideas expressed through this poem but I pray that some do
Recently, my husband and I have been introduced to two separate couples that are in the midst of divorce proceeding or options :o(. It makes my heart hurt to think of all the lies that have led to such; I am certain the participants hearts hurt worse than mine. As stated in a prior post- we weren't far from this ourselves. I take the perception of 'husbands' and their responsibilities quite serious- even though there are ample opportunities, jokes and side bars that could leave us laughing and humiliating them for some time.
I never had a 'respect' for a man's role in marriage. I did not understand that there are some clear responsibilities laid out for them in the Word of God, with defined consequences to be faced when not met. My husband and I have spent the last (2) years learning about what our parts are in marriage and how we can encourage unity instead of division in our home. God' Word says it all...we just have to want to learn and submit.
In today's post/prompt, I just want to thank God for wisdom in this area of life. I want to honor my husband and those that are out there- seeking God's will for their lives and the lives of their families. I thank God for the teaching, the ability to submit (which by the way does not come to me naturally) and the desire to lift my husband up to the position in life that God intends for him to have- for His glory, not our own.
Dearest O: I pray that you will have a Godly reverence for your husband that I did not have when I came into marriage. I pray that God will lead you in this life with wisdom gleaned both His teachings and our. I pray that you will always know God's love for you - and that He will place a man of His choosing in your life to encourage, comfort, pray and keep you safe in this life that He has given you. In Jesus Name, amen.
In His Love,
Link love- post inspired by MamaKat: http://www.mamakatslosinit.com/
Underestimated and devalued in society
Simply male
Best friend to those who show themselves friendly
Accountable in the Kingdom
Not driven by emotion or dramatics
Dedicated to meeting the needs of his partner
Supportive, when being supported
My husband is defined through this acrostic. I realize that many don't have the same experiences, perceptions or ideas expressed through this poem but I pray that some do
Recently, my husband and I have been introduced to two separate couples that are in the midst of divorce proceeding or options :o(. It makes my heart hurt to think of all the lies that have led to such; I am certain the participants hearts hurt worse than mine. As stated in a prior post- we weren't far from this ourselves. I take the perception of 'husbands' and their responsibilities quite serious- even though there are ample opportunities, jokes and side bars that could leave us laughing and humiliating them for some time.
I never had a 'respect' for a man's role in marriage. I did not understand that there are some clear responsibilities laid out for them in the Word of God, with defined consequences to be faced when not met. My husband and I have spent the last (2) years learning about what our parts are in marriage and how we can encourage unity instead of division in our home. God' Word says it all...we just have to want to learn and submit.
In today's post/prompt, I just want to thank God for wisdom in this area of life. I want to honor my husband and those that are out there- seeking God's will for their lives and the lives of their families. I thank God for the teaching, the ability to submit (which by the way does not come to me naturally) and the desire to lift my husband up to the position in life that God intends for him to have- for His glory, not our own.
Dearest O: I pray that you will have a Godly reverence for your husband that I did not have when I came into marriage. I pray that God will lead you in this life with wisdom gleaned both His teachings and our. I pray that you will always know God's love for you - and that He will place a man of His choosing in your life to encourage, comfort, pray and keep you safe in this life that He has given you. In Jesus Name, amen.
In His Love,
Link love- post inspired by MamaKat: http://www.mamakatslosinit.com/
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Savannah in 2010
Adhereing to my newly found inspiration - writing prompts by Mama Kat (http://www.mamakatslosinit.com/)- I am going to share a family vacation to remember.
The family vacations have been limited, to say the least. When you are on one income- it's often difficult to get the finances and timing in alignment for such things. This said, last year, around spring time (I think May), Jarrod was sent to Savannah for work. Some friends of ours live only a half hour from the downtown district, Tybee Island and Hilton Head. We were invited to stay at their home and live the 'carefree' beach life for a brief (3) days, while they traveled up to our home town. At the very same time (thanks be to God), a dear friend of the family had gifted us with $500.00. The trip became an absolute freebie! Olivia was so excited! I was so thrilled to have the opportunity too! We had not been to a beach since Olivia was 3 y.o.! The only downside was that daddy had to work and could not join us during the day.
I worked feverishly that week to pack clothing (as we live in GA and weather can be unpredictable) and plan/pack dinner(s) for the upcoming adventure. The bathing suits were out and the excitement was beyond expression! I believe a half hour into the ride..or possibly an hour into it..the first "are we there yet" seal was broken. It was about a 6 hour drive. The question was put forth about a million times. Then, of course, there was the "are we going to the beach tomorrow?" Traveling with an 8 y.o. is a good method to use in determining if you are ready for a family ;o)! Traveling with mommy's small bladder was no laughing matter either- I am sure Jarrod was ready to be at his destination the minute our inquiries and requests began (poor thing). He is so stinkin' patient :o).
As a child, eldest of (3) and daughter of a salesmen/entrepreneur, I spent a TON of 'growing up' time on the road. This kind of travel portfolio increases ones knowledge of car ride games and activity. I put some of these methods to the test. We sang some songs, colored and played a few games (Hangman, etc.) but, the ultimate entertainment and time killer was provided via Nintendo. Being raised in the age of technology has it's benefits too! Nintendo did most of the work during the ride there and back...what a great idea, right?
Day of arrival: I think we managed to make it to the River District that first evening. It was beautiful. We enjoyed walking the cobblestone streets. Jarrod enjoyed showing Olivia the ships carrying 'containers' on the river and she certainly enjoyed the candy shop(s). Watching taffy be made was quite amusing.
Day (1)- Jarrod went into work. Our host left a vehicle (business) for Jarrod to drive to work, so Olivia and I were fortunate enough to have the car. We went on down to the beach at Hilton Head first. Olivia played in the sand. The beach on the east coast was as I remember it from 5 years prior: waves fast and matted sand/seaweed everywhere. It was brisk on our first trip to the beach. I spent my time attempting to lay in the sun and Olivia went in and out of the water- about 6 inches from the sand. I think she was a bit fearful but mostly it was just CHILLY water and consistent winds. It was a beautiful ride there and back.
We managed to meet a neighbor across the street from where we stayed. I am not sure of the child's age, but, it was close to Olivia's. We took a walk and the kids rode bicycles. Jarrod returned to the 'home' and we ate in- then took a ride to Tybee Island. It was dark by the time we arrived but, we were able to see the pier and look out upon the ocean. Olivia enjoyed it~ we all did.
I think it was this same day that Olivia began to have some sort of rash appear and disappear on her face and neck. We administered the Benedryl and prayed. Again, this child of such STRONG faith refused to have anyone look at it. I tried on Day (2) to take her into a minute clinic- she insisted that she would be fine and it turns out, she was.
Day (2)- The hubby was off to work and we were off to play, again. We did drop in on him 1 time during out stay. I can't remember (as it's been almost a year) but I think we were off to Tybee Island on this day and brought lunch by the showroom. It was a brief visit but worth noting that we did not go about our 'life of luxurious vactioning' without thinking about daddy. Tybee was a much better beach than Hilton Head- for Olivia anyway. She does not meet a stranger and immediately made friends with two children. This particular beach site had millions of shells piled up where surf and sand met. The sun was stronger and temperature was warmer. Olivia was less apprehensive too! She actually went into the water mid-waist on this day. She posed for several pictures and really played hard.
It was a great day that second day! Olivia really tasted to see what good the Lord had made in this thing we call the beach. We left that afternoon- under protest, to say the least!
Day (3)- We stayed in on day three. We played a little with the girl across the street, actually going to the park for lunch with them and letting them ride bikes and such that afternoon. We prepared the house for departure- doing laundry, etc. And, that evening, my husband took us out to eat at a recommended seafood restaurant. Olivia and I do not eat seafood, but daddy does and it was the least we could do to accommodate his minimal vacation time. Olivia had chicken fingers & fries- I had tilapia (despite my lackluster desire for seafood dinner) and Jarrod had some crab dish with another fish. That night, we walked the River St. again and purchased a ton of candy. I think we managed to catch some fireworks too!
The family vacations have been limited, to say the least. When you are on one income- it's often difficult to get the finances and timing in alignment for such things. This said, last year, around spring time (I think May), Jarrod was sent to Savannah for work. Some friends of ours live only a half hour from the downtown district, Tybee Island and Hilton Head. We were invited to stay at their home and live the 'carefree' beach life for a brief (3) days, while they traveled up to our home town. At the very same time (thanks be to God), a dear friend of the family had gifted us with $500.00. The trip became an absolute freebie! Olivia was so excited! I was so thrilled to have the opportunity too! We had not been to a beach since Olivia was 3 y.o.! The only downside was that daddy had to work and could not join us during the day.
Last time Olivia was at the beach she looked like this:
I worked feverishly that week to pack clothing (as we live in GA and weather can be unpredictable) and plan/pack dinner(s) for the upcoming adventure. The bathing suits were out and the excitement was beyond expression! I believe a half hour into the ride..or possibly an hour into it..the first "are we there yet" seal was broken. It was about a 6 hour drive. The question was put forth about a million times. Then, of course, there was the "are we going to the beach tomorrow?" Traveling with an 8 y.o. is a good method to use in determining if you are ready for a family ;o)! Traveling with mommy's small bladder was no laughing matter either- I am sure Jarrod was ready to be at his destination the minute our inquiries and requests began (poor thing). He is so stinkin' patient :o).
As a child, eldest of (3) and daughter of a salesmen/entrepreneur, I spent a TON of 'growing up' time on the road. This kind of travel portfolio increases ones knowledge of car ride games and activity. I put some of these methods to the test. We sang some songs, colored and played a few games (Hangman, etc.) but, the ultimate entertainment and time killer was provided via Nintendo. Being raised in the age of technology has it's benefits too! Nintendo did most of the work during the ride there and back...what a great idea, right?
Day of arrival: I think we managed to make it to the River District that first evening. It was beautiful. We enjoyed walking the cobblestone streets. Jarrod enjoyed showing Olivia the ships carrying 'containers' on the river and she certainly enjoyed the candy shop(s). Watching taffy be made was quite amusing.
Day (1)- Jarrod went into work. Our host left a vehicle (business) for Jarrod to drive to work, so Olivia and I were fortunate enough to have the car. We went on down to the beach at Hilton Head first. Olivia played in the sand. The beach on the east coast was as I remember it from 5 years prior: waves fast and matted sand/seaweed everywhere. It was brisk on our first trip to the beach. I spent my time attempting to lay in the sun and Olivia went in and out of the water- about 6 inches from the sand. I think she was a bit fearful but mostly it was just CHILLY water and consistent winds. It was a beautiful ride there and back.
We managed to meet a neighbor across the street from where we stayed. I am not sure of the child's age, but, it was close to Olivia's. We took a walk and the kids rode bicycles. Jarrod returned to the 'home' and we ate in- then took a ride to Tybee Island. It was dark by the time we arrived but, we were able to see the pier and look out upon the ocean. Olivia enjoyed it~ we all did.
I think it was this same day that Olivia began to have some sort of rash appear and disappear on her face and neck. We administered the Benedryl and prayed. Again, this child of such STRONG faith refused to have anyone look at it. I tried on Day (2) to take her into a minute clinic- she insisted that she would be fine and it turns out, she was.
Day (2)- The hubby was off to work and we were off to play, again. We did drop in on him 1 time during out stay. I can't remember (as it's been almost a year) but I think we were off to Tybee Island on this day and brought lunch by the showroom. It was a brief visit but worth noting that we did not go about our 'life of luxurious vactioning' without thinking about daddy. Tybee was a much better beach than Hilton Head- for Olivia anyway. She does not meet a stranger and immediately made friends with two children. This particular beach site had millions of shells piled up where surf and sand met. The sun was stronger and temperature was warmer. Olivia was less apprehensive too! She actually went into the water mid-waist on this day. She posed for several pictures and really played hard.
Olivia becoming brave:
Better:
Best:
It was a great day that second day! Olivia really tasted to see what good the Lord had made in this thing we call the beach. We left that afternoon- under protest, to say the least!
Day (3)- We stayed in on day three. We played a little with the girl across the street, actually going to the park for lunch with them and letting them ride bikes and such that afternoon. We prepared the house for departure- doing laundry, etc. And, that evening, my husband took us out to eat at a recommended seafood restaurant. Olivia and I do not eat seafood, but daddy does and it was the least we could do to accommodate his minimal vacation time. Olivia had chicken fingers & fries- I had tilapia (despite my lackluster desire for seafood dinner) and Jarrod had some crab dish with another fish. That night, we walked the River St. again and purchased a ton of candy. I think we managed to catch some fireworks too!
Daddy & daughter after seafood:
Unfortunately, late that morning, prior to getting up for work, my husband was struck down with some sort of food poisoning. He hardly enjoyed his meal to begin with because it was some sort of 'soft-shell' crab he was not familiar with but now...he was suffering from it :(. He spent about an hour overcoming a stomach sickness and then went on into work. It was horrible for him. I, too, woke up and spent a few moments on the bathroom floor- cold tiles against my face. Olivia woke to find me and had a moment of fear- seeing me facial cheek down to the floor. It took about a half hour and I overcame.
We spent the evening in- I think? Or maybe it was this night we watched the display of fireworks. Nonetheless, it was time to get back to reality that next day. Jarrod worked for a bit and we packed up and headed home.
It was a great experience for Olivia, I think. One for the books, so to speak. Not much drama. Not much glamour. God is faithful though- to provide what we need when we need. This was definitely a little piece of heaven for us - at the time. We are thankful and now- it's officially documented!
Dearest O: I pray that you will have a flood of these kinds of memories to dwell upon and share with your family. I pray that God is as faithful to provide you with moments of life's grandeur as He has been to me! Be blessed as you read and remember....
In His Love,
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
V-day Beauty
We partied a bit on Valentine's Day!I was so thankful for this day. Schooling- V-day partying and closing the evening with a surprise dinner out- thanks to daddy.
It amazes me how the LORD can connect so many different people in such a beautiful way and for a purpose unseen! He is AWESOME!
I just wanted to post a picture for memories sake (you know- for when I dare to print the words to paper)
PS- She has made (dare I say) a new "BFFL" and there are several of those photographs too. I wish I could post them as they are too cute- but- those are other people's children, you know?
In His Love,
It amazes me how the LORD can connect so many different people in such a beautiful way and for a purpose unseen! He is AWESOME!
I just wanted to post a picture for memories sake (you know- for when I dare to print the words to paper)
PS- She has made (dare I say) a new "BFFL" and there are several of those photographs too. I wish I could post them as they are too cute- but- those are other people's children, you know?
In His Love,
Writing Prompts
Oh yes, I need inspiration! I really would like to believe I am this phenomenal creative writer but-I am not. SHHHHH!
I have found a way to write daily and journal some great memories, testaments and topics through this method of -writing prompts- YAY! Can you believe there are websites for this? And blogs? Speaking of blogs- I will be utilizing this one for the prompts:
http://www.mamakatslosinit.com
I am very excited about it and she is VERY funny. You should visit, if you need inspiration and wish to chronicle anything for your generations to come.
Look forward to writing/sharing some interesting stories, posts & inspirational blogging, yes?!!!
In His Love,
I have found a way to write daily and journal some great memories, testaments and topics through this method of -writing prompts- YAY! Can you believe there are websites for this? And blogs? Speaking of blogs- I will be utilizing this one for the prompts:
http://www.mamakatslosinit.com
I am very excited about it and she is VERY funny. You should visit, if you need inspiration and wish to chronicle anything for your generations to come.
Look forward to writing/sharing some interesting stories, posts & inspirational blogging, yes?!!!
In His Love,
I love my marriage & my GOD!
If I am forthright, I would have to state that there was a time- not too long ago- these words would not have come out of my mouth: "I love my marriage." It was difficult. It was confusing. It was painful. It was really close to being over --BUT GOD... ;o).
Yesterday, Jarrod gave me this incredible testament of what the Lord has been doing in his life-through the testimony of our marriage that he now shares with others. I was so...amazed. God is so faithful. We suffered long at the hand of the enemy and the lies that so easily ensnare us here in this world! I just PRAISE HIM now that we are over that chapter of our lives and that He can use the stories to encourage others in their marriages!
The first 5 years of our married life were a pure, unadulterated challenge. The excuses were endless: "We are from different cultures." "I am flamboyant and dramatic, he is passive and quiet." "This is just who I am --I cannot help it." "Maybe you can find someone else who is more suited to fit your 'idea' of me?" "We just have different needs." Blah, blah, blah. It seems though, that the truth fell upon the simple biblical principle of: loving another more than you love yourself. I mean, I am not saying our entire marriage is perfect- it's a process, just like our walk with the Lord...but..it is moving in healthier direction. I also have to state that (for the record)-there is more than one biblical principle we apply to our marriage--but the aforementioned helps to overcome just about all strife.
Credit should be given to our Advocate- Jesus- first and foremost -but the last minister we sat under had a whole lot to do with teaching us about order in the home and our responsibility as it relates to husband and wife. I would be lying if I said that we didn't try to leave one another (me specifically) a million times over the last seven years! I thank God for placing a man of God in our lives for a season of need and I praise Him for allowing us the ability to become vulnerable and willing participants in His covenant.
Many people cannot hear the voice of God and many hear it and do their own thing. I have been both of these 'types.' I have heard Him and ignored Him; I have not been able to hear Him and made really bad decisions. Like with all trials in my life- I have to lean upon the scripture that tells me (paraphrased): 'we battle not with flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers...!" I have had to choose to listen to Him through others speaking to me and to serve Him regarding the wisdom and direction provided. Through this, I have been blessed with a marriage that has lasted beyond the stereotypical 3-5 years. This seemed impossible not too long ago...so, it's a miracle to us and one worth noting for Olivia and the generations to come. Marriage is NOT IMPOSSIBLE and is a great gift!
I suppose one day I should write specifically about some of these trials? For now though, I just wanted to praise God for his work in our marriage- as a whole unit and individually. Marriage is a covenant established by the LORD- living in it without Him as the foundation of it all would have assured the big "D" in our lives. I pray that anyone reading and considering the "D" will seek God and that He will establish a presence in your life to help heal, encourage and reunite any broken or separated hearts. Life can go on after "D"- and God is faithful to see us through it all- I judge no one. I just pray that the enemy will not succeed in tearing apart any more families---it is one of his strongest weapons in the fight with God's people.
Dearest O: I pray your husband to come into your life established in the Lord and for you to be rooted in the love of the LORD so much...that when he does come for you, you will be able to handle all that marriage brings with it. I pray that you will be supernaturally able to maneuver through the obstacles, trials and wondrous moments that this particular unity brings. I pray that you will always hear God's voice and recognize the enemy in marriage and in life. In Jesus Name, amen.
Yesterday, Jarrod gave me this incredible testament of what the Lord has been doing in his life-through the testimony of our marriage that he now shares with others. I was so...amazed. God is so faithful. We suffered long at the hand of the enemy and the lies that so easily ensnare us here in this world! I just PRAISE HIM now that we are over that chapter of our lives and that He can use the stories to encourage others in their marriages!
The first 5 years of our married life were a pure, unadulterated challenge. The excuses were endless: "We are from different cultures." "I am flamboyant and dramatic, he is passive and quiet." "This is just who I am --I cannot help it." "Maybe you can find someone else who is more suited to fit your 'idea' of me?" "We just have different needs." Blah, blah, blah. It seems though, that the truth fell upon the simple biblical principle of: loving another more than you love yourself. I mean, I am not saying our entire marriage is perfect- it's a process, just like our walk with the Lord...but..it is moving in healthier direction. I also have to state that (for the record)-there is more than one biblical principle we apply to our marriage--but the aforementioned helps to overcome just about all strife.
Credit should be given to our Advocate- Jesus- first and foremost -but the last minister we sat under had a whole lot to do with teaching us about order in the home and our responsibility as it relates to husband and wife. I would be lying if I said that we didn't try to leave one another (me specifically) a million times over the last seven years! I thank God for placing a man of God in our lives for a season of need and I praise Him for allowing us the ability to become vulnerable and willing participants in His covenant.
Many people cannot hear the voice of God and many hear it and do their own thing. I have been both of these 'types.' I have heard Him and ignored Him; I have not been able to hear Him and made really bad decisions. Like with all trials in my life- I have to lean upon the scripture that tells me (paraphrased): 'we battle not with flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers...!" I have had to choose to listen to Him through others speaking to me and to serve Him regarding the wisdom and direction provided. Through this, I have been blessed with a marriage that has lasted beyond the stereotypical 3-5 years. This seemed impossible not too long ago...so, it's a miracle to us and one worth noting for Olivia and the generations to come. Marriage is NOT IMPOSSIBLE and is a great gift!
I suppose one day I should write specifically about some of these trials? For now though, I just wanted to praise God for his work in our marriage- as a whole unit and individually. Marriage is a covenant established by the LORD- living in it without Him as the foundation of it all would have assured the big "D" in our lives. I pray that anyone reading and considering the "D" will seek God and that He will establish a presence in your life to help heal, encourage and reunite any broken or separated hearts. Life can go on after "D"- and God is faithful to see us through it all- I judge no one. I just pray that the enemy will not succeed in tearing apart any more families---it is one of his strongest weapons in the fight with God's people.
Dearest O: I pray your husband to come into your life established in the Lord and for you to be rooted in the love of the LORD so much...that when he does come for you, you will be able to handle all that marriage brings with it. I pray that you will be supernaturally able to maneuver through the obstacles, trials and wondrous moments that this particular unity brings. I pray that you will always hear God's voice and recognize the enemy in marriage and in life. In Jesus Name, amen.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
The American Doll- Missy
For posterity- I should post this photograph also:
We had our first "American Doll" tea party today! Look how pretty ~ There were several little girls and their dolls and the host was A-mazing! It was a blast.
Dear O- you'll never know how truly wonderful a gift it is to share moments like these with you. I pray that God will allow you the same opportunities with your little ones- in your life to come!
In His love,
We had our first "American Doll" tea party today! Look how pretty ~ There were several little girls and their dolls and the host was A-mazing! It was a blast.
Dear O- you'll never know how truly wonderful a gift it is to share moments like these with you. I pray that God will allow you the same opportunities with your little ones- in your life to come!
In His love,
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