Black Friday

I did not go shopping today - I am pleased that my family never took on that tradition.
Instead ... today I began to pack up my jewelry studio, hung shelves and started the process to create Jeremy's room. The process begins with moving my jewelry studio to the office, which also needs organization. But it has begin, that is a great start.
On Aaron's mind is packing the hospital bag - We will have that ready by Sunday. With the mind set that it can be changed or added too ... I need to get some baby detergent to wash the blankets and clothes we have for Jeremy at the hospital.

Aaron and I have our 35 week appointment Monday December 1st, along with a regular ultra sound, I wonder if JP is 5 lbs yet? Also, our special Nurse will take us through the Maternity area and turn in our "registration" for the hospital. It seems like this is all starting to move very quick. After the appointment, we are going to look at some cars, yes the "Yellow Jeep" is looking for a new home (anyone interested? I have put every mile on the vehicle myself ... 105,000!) We are going to look at some Chevy's, Malibu to be exact .... better gas and family friendly.

My sub will be coming in over the next two weeks to prepare to take over second semester. It will be nice to meet this person (there are 3 candidates so I am not sure if it will be a man or woman) Regardless, I will have the opportunity to give them a quick lesson on teaching Jewelry, AKA Metal Fabrication.

Everyday, we are getting closer to meeting Jeremy, and that is exciting! There are still so many things to do ... I am sure we will never be completely ready, but I can trust that all things that must be done God will direct us to complete those things.

From Joel Today :)
Life in the Word
Today's Scripture
“For you have been born again, but not to a life that will quickly end. Your new life will last forever because it comes from the eternal, living word of God” (1 Peter 1:23, NLT).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
In Genesis we read that God spoke the world into existence. His words produced life and are continuing to produce life today. Aren’t you grateful for the power in God’s Word? Because of God’s Word, we can have life in eternity and live in strength and victory over every obstacle that comes against us here on earth! Today, you have access to life, strength, and victory in the Word of God. The Bible says in Job 22 that what you declare shall be established. When you declare God’s Word, you establish it in your life. You activate its power. Make it a habit to declare God’s Word over your life daily. Declare that no weapon formed against you shall prosper. Declare that you are more than a conqueror through Christ Jesus. Declare that His favor and blessing are upon you because you follow His commands. As you declare His Word, you will see His hand moving on your behalf. You’ll experience His power to live in victory in every area of your life!
A Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word which is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. I commit to seek You first and invite You to establish Your Word in my heart. I bless You and magnify You today. In Jesus’ Name.

GRACE AND PEACE!

Happy Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving - the year has gone quick ... but still plenty of things to be thankful:)

Just a few passages I came across this morning regarding giving thanks ...
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6

For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving. Because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer. 1Timothy 4:4-5

I hope you have a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving .

Enjoy the Love of Christ through the day.

GRACE AND PEACE

6 weeks not 7!

okay, I must edit my title from my previous post ... we have 6 weeks not 7! whoops:)

Yesterday was a GREAT day. At this time in the school year the Art Department puts up an Art Show in the student center to display the work from our students from the current semester. First, our students are amazing! Second it is a big job to get all the work matted and ready for display. The past two school days have been busy, but my student helpers are excellent ... yesterday I completed the matting for my 2D classes and by the end of the day all the work was hung and on display. What seemed to me a huge job, that alone would have taken me hours, was completed in one class period by 2 very efficient students. YEAH! Today the 3D work will be ready to go, my 3D class is Jewelry (metal fabrication!) and there are 2 glass cases that will be taken to the student center.

After school Tuesday, Aaron and I had a photo shoot. Maybe we missed our calling to be models .... nah! A couple in our life group, as a gift for us, set up a photo session with the photographer that shot their wedding and has done all their family pictures since. They have gorgeous images found through out their home. Additionally, they opened their home for us to do the shoot. Their home has a very open space and looks like it is from a magazine. Yesterday was AWESOME - God brought out the SUN! It has been cloudy and dreary for the last 3 or 4 days - but yesterday sunglasses needed. I look forward to the sneak peak at the images she caught. The last only other time I enjoyed being on that side of the camera was when Aaron and I got married. She was easy to work with and very encouraging - simply a blast. At the end of the shoot she offered to come to the hospital when Jeremy arrives to shot our family - what an awesome offer - that Aaron and I will accept!

Through out this pregnancy I have set up mental milestones. Dates that are important to me to meet. Every time we go to the DR that is a milestone. Yesterday was a milestone. We set up the date in Late September / Early October, I was hesitant - what if we are no longer pregnant - but I put my trust in God and let it flow. He brings me to each milestone, time and time again, because his plan is so much greater then mine. I am limiting God when I set these goals, or are they ways for me to see how great he is OVER AND OVER?

Which brings me to the posting today from Joel ... how true!

Proclaim His Greatness
Today's Scripture
“Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim His greatness. Let the whole world know what He has done” (Psalm 105:1, NLT).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
When someone gives you a meaningful or costly gift, how do you show your appreciation? Do you tell them how grateful you are? What do you do with that gift? When it’s something you are truly thankful for, you probably don’t just throw it in the back of a closet; you openly and proudly display the gift. When others see and admire it, you probably tell them about where it came from and about the generosity of the giver. In the same way, as believers, we should give thanks to the Lord and constantly show our gratefulness and appreciation for all He has done for us by displaying the gifts He’s given us. We should display love, peace, joy, kindness, and hope. We should live our lives in such a way that our very actions proclaim His greatness and cause others to take notice. Proclaim His greatness by living a life of gratitude to Him and let the whole world know what He has done for you!
A Prayer for Today
Father in heaven, thank You for setting me free and filling me with Your hope, peace, and joy. I invite You to dwell in every area of my being and make my life a continual praise to You. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

have a blessed day ....

GRACE AND PEACE!

34 weeks - 7 to go.

Monday, or Wednesday, either way this will be a 3 day school week .... Aaron and I are looking forward to Thursday and spending time with our families. We are very blessed that both sides of our family still live in Indy. No more then 15 min from house to house - and there is no pressure for us to spend x amount of time anywhere! What a Blessing:) 

This morning my reading began in Revelation, that has always been a hard book for me, I feel like I need a class to explain that one. 

I did that reading, then flipped through my bible. Here is where I ended up:

Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear. Isaiah 65:24

my prayer: 

Lord, I thank you for hearing my prayers, and even before I call you have set yourself to answer. 

We are down to 7 weeks of waiting, hard to believe 34 have already gone by, but I continue to trust that God has heard my prayers (and yours) and His good and perfect will , will be done. 

Before I took off for school, I had to see what Joel Osteen had to say ... pretty powerful!

He Still Opens Doors
Today's Scripture
“I know all the things you do, and I have opened a door for you that no one can close” (Revelation 3:8, NLT).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
God is ready to present you with new opportunities. He wants to open new doors before you. It doesn’t matter what’s happening in the world around you, in the economy, the housing industry, or with job reports; God’s Word still remains true. He rewards the people who seek after Him. He’s not the least bit concerned about how He’s going to supply your needs. There is no recession in heaven. He has His eye on you, and He still opens doors that no one can shut! In an instant, He can bring the right people into your life, the right opportunities, and the right resources to take you to a new level. But in order to go to a higher level, you have to have a higher way of thinking. You can’t stay focused on what’s happening in the natural nor allow worry and fear to fill your thoughts. Remember, God’s ways are higher than our ways. He is working on your behalf behind the scenes in the supernatural realm. Choose to keep an attitude of faith and expectancy. As you do, you’ll move forward through the open doors of blessing God has prepared for you.
A Prayer for Today
Father in heaven, I bless Your holy name. Thank You for opening doors for me that no one can close. Fill me with Your peace and joy today as I wait on You. In Jesus’ Name Amen.

GRACE AND PEACE!

Great Weekend

This has been a great weekend - low key and great.

Friday night Aaron and I went to dinner with my sister, her husband and 4 kids. They are always entertaining. The kids range in age from 10 - 4 - Aaron and I got a great update from the boys regarding the economy, stocks and bonds. Their Dad has been taking them to school and they have these deep conversations - not bad for a 4th grader, 2nd grader and kindergartner. Aaron asked if he could start riding with them:)

Saturday, Aaron traveled with me to Greenwood for his first visit to the "BEAD PALACE" In case you do not know, I started a jewelry business 18 months ago, Beads by Beth, there is a link tot he blog on the left ... ANYWAY, I had a few orders that I needed to get some special bead to create so we made the 30 min journey south. I love that place. Aaron is awesome, he was amazed at the number of beads available - he took a book found a comfortable seat and waited for me. This was the first time I visited and I was the only shopper for beads in the store - that was awesome! I found just what I needed and it only took me about 45min. Aaron was very patient. We attended the 4:30 service at Northview - Pastor Poe, in addition to doing the money talk, which pastors must do yearly - spoke about the time when Jesus feed 5,000 and Paul walked on Water. Specifically being obedient to God and his call on our lives. Then they showed the cardboard stories AGAIN - so I was very tear filled. God does so many amazing things, and I know that I can count on Him to do the same amazing things in my life.

Sunday, whew - We celebrated Thanksgiving at Brookside, the church was full and Pastor Bailey shared a powerful word. Everyone was fed spiritually first, then stomachs filled. There was so much food, many of the people received 2nds, 3rds and a doggie bag. After church I got to work ... filled all the orders. The items are now posted on the Beads by Beth blog.

I had to laugh that I could not get as close to my beading station as I like. And Foster (one of our cats) was not able to sit on my lap while I worked. He typically fits on my lap, just under the work table - not any more!

Jeremy has been very active all weekend, day and night. What a blessing. I love this time, feeling him move, stretch, and twist. I can not really put into words how I look forward to each move. Everyday this weekend, I was reminded that we walk by faith and not be sight ... and We do not believe what we see, we believe what we know.

Hope you all had a blessed weekend as well ....

GRACE AND PEACE!

no title

This has been a long week - partly because I am looking ahead to next week, a short school week and Thanksgiving. Which then only leaves 2 full school weeks, then finals week (half days for the students, they get out at 10:30), then Vacation ... which also means the arrival of Jeremy is fast approaching.

I have mixed feelings regarding his arrival. 

I can not wait to meet him, see him and hold him.

At the same time I know he is perfectly safe right now, in my belly. 

We simply do not know what happens on his birthday. 

I will trust that the master planner knows and he will direct me in the best way to prepare for his arrival.

from my reading/ morning prayers 

Jesus turned and saw her. "Take heart, daughter," he said, "Your faith has healed you." And the woman was healed from that moment! Matthew 9:22

---

For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far out weighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18

prayer: Lord, help me to embrace the moments of life that are hard to get my arms around. Enable me to see you in these moments. Help me to be an encouragement to all around me - reminding everyone of your goodness and mercy. Provide strength and courage in this trial, day by day I will walk by faith and stand strong on your firm foundation. In Your Name, AMEN.

GRACE AND PEACE!

100th post

Really, this is my 100th post. What a blessing for me to be able to use this outlet when things are rough and when things are good. Often what starts as a rough post by the end I have been uplifted through the Word. It has been a great place to share my feelings and thoughts regarding this pregnancy - even if no ever read the words. This is my journal. And it is overwhelming to think where I might be if I did not have this outlet.

Recently, friends have been asking if there is anything Aaron and I need ... prayers always. Kind words of encouragement are wonderful - knowing that the Body of Christ is walking with us is truly what we need. We know that until Jeremy arrives we are patiently waiting, we can not begin to imagine what the future holds. We can not spend time in fear of the unknown - we can only count on the fact the God is Good, all the time and he has some grand plans for all of us. Which brings me to my morning reading ....

The path of the righteous is like the first gleam if dawn, shinning ever brighter till the full light of day. Proverbs 4:18

"... For I know the plans I have for you" , declares the Lord. "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:11-13

prayer: Lord, I ask that you would give me total peace about my future and my families future. I reach out for your hand today so that I can walk with you into the plans you have for me and my family. I pray especially regarding Jeremy - he is your child and I am thankful that you have provided me the time to be with him, continue to heal his body and prepare him for his arrival here in this world. I continue to walk in faith and not by sight - continue to provide strength for Aaron and I, our families, friends and our prayer warriors - we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. In your Holy Name. Amen.

GRACE AND PEACE!

Scan

We had a great afternoon, trying to get Jeremy to move into a position so we could see his face. Jeremy was not very cooperative - maybe even a bit stubborn (similar to his mother) He kept his hands close to his face .... most of the time. The room was full and we all had a many laughs and shared so much joy:)

Here are a few shots that we could see him the best:)
I did my best to add some labels to help identify his parts.




Here we got a good shot, love the wrinkled forehead (again something that I have done) ... he gave us this one shot but does not look pleased. This happened just after Aaron began to whistle. He was whistling the tune "oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree"
We all had a good belly laugh. Our Special Nurse was specifically looking for dimples - there might be one ...







This was the first shot, of his right hand - it looked HUGE. Jeremy did wiggle his thumb a little, and his hand is holding his left hand across his face.











What a fun afternoon, Aaron had to go back to the Church, so we have not watched the video. Once we see that, we will look to post that as well.

GRACE AND PEACE!

Awesome Friends

I have awesome friends.

I was talking on the phone with my mother last night ( since college we have talked on the phone at least once a day - sometimes more) she had received in the mail an invitation to a Mommy Shower for me - some dear friends at school want to be sure that I have a shower. They know that this has not been a "normal" pregnancy and that a typical baby shower was not really appropriate - but wanted to do something. Additionally, 2 other friends, from church plan to do something similar. Soooo Cool! Until talking to my mother last night, I had not realized how many caring FRIENDS Aaron and I have in our lives. 

It is so reassuring to know that in no way are we traveling this journey alone. Our special Nurse is also amazed at the support of the people around us. She sends hugs to all! 

To top that, for Suzi (my forever friend) to drop everything and travel to Indy for the weekend was simply amazing. We had a nice time, talking and just being in each others company. 

I love to see how God gathers his sheep for comfort. We are all in this together, what initially seems to personal for Aaron and I touches everyone around us more then we can even imagine. 

Today, Aaron and I will get to see Jeremy again, 3D - i hope he is in a "good" position - he has been quite active this morning.  We look forward to any glimpse that we get and are so appreciative to the time we have already been given to be with Jeremy. No parent ever knows how long they will have their children, we are forever thankful for the past 33 weeks!

The Holy Spirit is moving through our community of believers and we are so blessed!

You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater then the one who is in this world. 1 John 4:4

prayer: Help me to always remember, Lord, that your spirit in me is greater than anything I face!

Thank you Dear Friends!

GRACE AND PEACE

A Few Scriptures ....

We saw the Dr yesterday, Jeremy is growing and has a strong heart beat. We go back in 2 weeks for an ultra sound to check progress and see the Dr, that will be week 35 - WOW!

Tomorrow we have a special treat with our special nurse ... we are going to have a 3D Scan and make a DVD ... I am hoping to be able to post that video to share will you all.

This morning was a good reading day ...

And this is love: that we walk in obedience to is commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you WALK IN LOVE. 2 John 1:6

prayer: Help me, Lord to show my love for you by always living according to your commands.

God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth gives way and the mountains fall into the heart of the seas, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. Psalm 46:1-3

prayer: Lord, I pray you will deliver me from any type of fear - real or imagined. Help me not to deny fears, but to bring them to you in prayer. Grant me a sense of peace as I move through my day.

But he was pierced for our transgression he was crushed for our iniquities, the punishment that brought us peace was upon him and by his wounds we are healed. Isaiah 53:5

But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings. And you will go out and leap like calves released from the stall. Malachi 4:2

prayer:  Lord I come to you and pray for healing and wholeness for Jeremy. i ask sickness and infirmity will have no place or power in his life. I pray for protection against any disease coming into his body and trust you will keep him strong.

GRACE AND PEACE

New Sight

Yesterday Aaron preached at Brookside, his message was about suffering and trials. A topic that most everyone can relate to in the Church. He did not go into detail regarding our personal trial, but I spoke with a number of people following the service that felt every word was for them. THAT IS A GOOD WORD!
At one point Aaron shared the following scripture and went in a direction that he had not planned -but it was a Word from God for Aaron and I.

18 Against all hope, Abraham, in hope, believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him "So shall your offspring be!" 19 Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact his body was as good as dead - since he was about a hundred years old - and that Sarah's womb was also dead. 20 Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, 21 being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. Romans 4:18-21

Aaron and I talked about how he had not planned to share that verse, but during the sermon was lead to this passage. 

We were both moved at the insight we each received from this passage. 

It was assurance that God follows through with His promises - and he has promised a lot ... All that Abraham had to do, believe. Although in the natural, there was no reason for Abraham or Sarah to think it possible that they would have a child, they relied on the Word of God to stand firm and trust that God had spoken to them - and promised to make Abraham the father of many nations. Unwavering in belief. Aaron and I continue to believe everyday that God has promised us Good. 

WE will stand firm in our Hope, Belief and Faith! 

GRACE AND PEACE!

What do I ask of the Lord?

my reading Saturday .... 

I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life. This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us - whatever we ask - we know that we have what we asked of him. 1 John 5:13-15


what do I ask of Him ....
- strength
- wisdom
- courage
- discernment
- perseverance
- love
- health
- help

GRACE AND PEACE!

grace and peace

I always end my posts with GRACE AND PEACE, which is actually something I picked up listening to pod casts from Rob Bell, the pastor of a church in Grand Rapids Michigan ...
but today reading the word from Joel states it clearly why Grace and Peace is important to me and everyone.
ENJOY ....

Share Your Life
Today's Scripture
“We loved you so much that we shared with you not only God’s Good News but our own lives, too” (1 Thessalonians 2:8).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
People all over the world are searching for grace and peace. They are powerful forces in the life of the believer. First of all, we are saved by God’s grace through faith. We don’t deserve it and can’t earn His grace and forgiveness, but He gives it to us anyway. Grace is God’s favor that opens the door to salvation, but it doesn’t stop there. His grace is supernatural favor and empowerment to live the life God has called us to here on earth.Peace is every bit as powerful. It’s not just a feeling; it’s a state of being. Peace means “to set at one again.” We are settled internally. And nothing externally can move us from our position of peace. Receive His grace and peace today and declare it over the lives of the people around you. Remember, as you sow words of blessing into the lives of others, you’ll see that increase of harvest in your own life in return!
A Prayer for Today
Father in heaven, thank You for Your grace and peace at work in my life. I choose to stand in my position of peace by following your Word and staying in the plan You have for me. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

GRACE AND PEACE!

Loving God - no matter what

from Stormies Heart
excerpt:
... remember that regardless of how much your world shakes, God is unshakable. So don't doubt God when you are in the midst of a tough time. Continue to show your love for HIM by praising HIM for who HE is and all that HE has done. And thank HIM ahead of time for the good HE will soon bring out of your situation.

My world is constantly shaking - everyday. There is tremor after tremor, it never stops. Will it stop when Jeremy arrives? When will my situation pass? I look forward to the day that God delivers his promises - I know HE will bring us through, but this journey is getting rough. I WILL STAND FIRM AND TRUST.

This week has been full of thinking about the arrival of Jeremy. We are in a waiting period for the arrival, that is when all our plans go into action - we do not know for certain the outcome - we must plan for possible scenarios. Even the medical professionals can not say for certain what will happen, each case is very different. And in many cases couples have decided to end the pregnancy with the the initial diagnosis.

In my heart, Jeremy is coming home whit Aaron and I. That is the only scenario in my mind. I am having a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that we do not know and the statistics are not on our side. BUT I do know God is on my side - what else do I need ....

Aaron and I have prayed each morning for discernment and wisdom in our preparation for creating birth plans and what we should be doing to prepare our home, family, friends, everyone that will be effected when Jeremy arrives.

There are many things going on in my head, what is the best way to let those around us know all that we are facing. I have truly enjoyed the past few months experiencing a regular pregnancy with many of my co workers, athletes and students. I have been very open in the blogging world, but not so open in my work life. Coming to school daily, having a routine, working with students, working with athletes - everything seems so regular. Some days it seems like a lie, I just want to shout that we do not know what the future holds - we do not know - we do not know!

The future - I can not think about the future. I can hardly move past each moment, every movement Jeremy makes is precious. Going to the Doctor, hearing his heartbeat - talk about the Glory of God. Truly Amazing,

This post is all over the place - similar to what my head has been like this week. sorry!

on a more stable note:

This weekend my best friend from forever comes home to visit. Suzi and I met when we were 2 years old, and have been buddies ever since. We lived one street apart with the same house number.  We have not lived in the same city since high school, but when ever we get together it is like no time has passed. EVERYONE needs a Suzi. :)

Tonight Aaron and I will celebrate his birthday, which was yesterday - but due to ministry needs we decided to celebrate Friday. NOT sure where we will go, he will pick. I am so thankful that he is my partner and we have each other - in everything.

Please pray for Aaron and I as we prepare for the day we meet Jeremy, face to face. We specifically ask for discernment in his treatment and procedures that may be necessary - and always pray for a miracle! 

GRACE AND PEACE! 

Tough Night

So last night (okay, early this morning ... 2 am) I got up to use the bathroom, very typical. What happens usually I will lie back down and Jeremy will move around and I quickly fall back asleep ... this time I was wide awake waiting for him to move. I laid in bed for a while, moving my belly trying to get the Little Guy to move - nothing. So I got up, got some orange juice and went to the other room and prayed .... about 15 min later Jeremy was moving around again. I ended up staying awake until about 4am, just feeling him move around and talking with God.

During my time with God, I let it Him  know I am not as strong as I am pretending to be. That as we get closer to the due date, and knowing that most T13 guys do not make it full term I am starting to get scared.

So what did I do, I turned to my note cards - one that I read early this week.

Be self controlled and alert. 

Your enemy, the devil prowls around like a roaring lion and looking for someone to devour. 

Resist him, standing firm in the Faith ... 1 Peter 5:8-9

What a sense of peace that filled my heart - I told Satan to get behind me, and he had no business trying to play with my mind. I am a child of God and so is Jeremy - he loves me and protects me. If God is for me, who dare be against me. I WILL STAND FIRM!

I was able to sleep for the last hour, before my 5 am wake up call.

Jeremy has been active ALL day - PRAISE BE TO GOD!

GRACE AND PEACE!

Dallas Clark

Last Night Aaron and I attended the Washington Township Young Life Dinner, Dallas Clark was the MC. Aaron got to talk a little football and take a photo ... Fun night!

GRACE and PEACE!

thanks

Still not ready to write about yesterday.
But I do know what I am in control of - how I think, act and treat others.
Thanks to all that have been praying for us - it makes all the difference.

Harvest Always Comes
Today's Scripture
“Don’t be misled—you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant” (Galatians 6:7, NLT).

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
Have you ever looked at a large, old tree and wondered how long it has been there? It’s amazing to think that, at one point, that gigantic tree was merely a tiny seed.

In the same way, our words and actions are seeds; and we will always reap a harvest on what we sow. What are you sowing into the lives around you? What are you sowing into your future? Are you sowing encouragement, hope, blessing, love? Then that’s what you’ll reap in the future. But if you’ve been sowing criticism, judgment, and anger, you’re probably already reaping a bad harvest. It’s time to start changing your seed.

Pray and ask God to help you uproot those negative seeds and begin to sow good seeds for your future. Keep the light of God’s Word shining on your seed by speaking His Word. Allow the refreshing water of His Spirit to pour over you. Keep planting those good seeds of faith because soon you’ll see growth and enjoy the harvest of blessing God promises.

A Prayer for Today
Father in heaven, I choose to guard my heart and plant good seeds for my future. Help me, by Your Spirit, to say and do things that honor You. Use me for Your glory. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

GRACE AND PEACE!

hard day, but good day

Today was a hard day, but very good. I will write more about the day when I have had time to process more. But I had to share the word I received from Joel when we got home ... The Lord is so comforting.

God’s Deep Secrets
Today's Scripture
“That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, ’No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.’ But it was to us that God revealed these things by His Spirit. For His Spirit searches out everything and shows us God’s deep secrets” (1 Corinthians 2:9-10, NLT).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
Who do you share your deepest secrets with? Most people only share their inner thoughts with those who are closest to them. People they trust. People they’ve gone through experiences with. Do you know who God share’s His secrets with? This passage goes on to say, “Who can know a man’s thoughts except his own spirit?” As believers, God’s Spirit lives inside of us, revealing to us the heart and thoughts of God Himself. God wants you to know what He thinks about you. He wants you to know about the plans He has for you. He wants to show you things you’ve never seen, heard about, or even imagined. You are His child, but you are also His friend. You are His closest companion. He wants to walk with you, talk with you, and share with you. What a wonderful, amazing thought—we can know God’s thoughts because we are one with Him. Open your heart and allow Him to share His deep secrets with you today.
A Prayer for Today
Father in heaven, I am so humbled that You call me friend. I am honored to be connected with You and invite You to share Your heart with me. I surrender all that I am to You. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

GRACE AND PEACE!

more james

8 Come near to God and he will come near to you.
10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
James 4:8,10

The Holy Spirit is within us.
He will lead us in all things and teach us everything we need to know.
He will transform us and our circumstances beyond our wildest dreams
IF you will give up trying to do it on your own and let HIM do it, HIS way - in HIS time.

God is Good all the time ...
I will continue to draw near to him, stay humble and allow HIM to do HIS work in me and through me .

GRACE AND PEACE!

james

powerful reading this morning.
We solidified a time that we are going to meet with our special nurse, Monday at 10:30 - so please special prayers for the day.

Which makes this reading even more appropriate for me ....

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking in anything. James 1:2-4

pray: Lord, I know you work great things in the midst of trial. I do not pray that we have trials; rather, I pray that we will get through each battle as the winner. In our current trial; I pray that you would help us to keep our eyes focused on you. That you would continue to hold us in your palm providing wisdom, discernment and joy.

after my first reading, I continued to read in James ....
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised those that love him. James 1:12

that sounds like a pretty great promise to me, and I am loking forward to it:)

GRACE AND PEACE!

Nothing Wasted

from Joel ... wow! 

Scripture:

After everyone was full, Jesus told his disciples, "Now gather the leftovers, so that nothing is wasted." John 6:12

Word from Joel and Victoria:

The bible tell of a time when Jesus fed a crowd of five thousand with only five loaves. That day, everyone had more then enough to eat and there were still twelve baskets full of bread. That's because we serve a God of abundance! I love that Jesus told the disciples to collect all the leftovers."so that nothing was wasted" With God, nothing is ever wasted. He'll never waste a hurt; He'll never waste a dream; He'll never waste even a single piece of bread. 

God is still in the miracle-working business. (GLORY) He is still our Creator and He is a Restorer. If you've felt like you've wasted years of your life in the wrong job, hanging around the wrong people, doing the wrong things, God will gather those years and restore them back to you. He'll turn them around for your good. He'll make you stronger, wiser, and better off then you were before. He can launch you further into your destiny than before. be encouraged today because with God all things are possible and nothing is ever wasted! 

prayer:

Heavenly Father, I give you every bit of my life, my past, my present, and my future. Thank you for taking every experience in my life and turning it around for my good. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

nothing more for me to add - AWESOME!

GRACE AND PEACE!

hope - faith

Today has been hard.
Aaron and I are faced with making decisions that will determine the course of action to be taken when Jeremy arrives. We have known this all along, and as we get closer to the time he will arrive we can no longer act like there is nothing to do but wait. While, we really will not know which course will be followed until Jeremy arrives - we need to have a course of action for the doctors, nurses, family and beyond when the day arrives. On that day all decisions will have been made - that overwhelms me. 

I am most scared that once we see JP our minds will change.
Aaron and I do not even know where to start with the planning.
We know we have already faced the challenge of the pregnancy going this far, and as we look at how Jeremy is growing and progressing, we have been blessed - daily.

Thankfully, our Special Nurse will help with our planning. Aaron and I can not even pretend to know all the possible choices that must be made. Tentatively we are setting a time on November 17th, which will also be our next appointment - so please lift that day in prayer that Aaron and I will have clear heads to discern our course of actions.

The ultra sound was interesting yesterday, JP's head is down, he was playing with his feet and hands close to his mouth so we did not get the same look at his adorable sweet profile - but it was enjoyable to watch him play. His head size is great, his abdomen was going up and down, his heart rate was steady and strong. Still with the left side under developed. And he weighs 3lbs 10oz. Please continue to pray for his body - all the parts inside and out.

My reading has taken me into Hebrews ... very powerful to me that I am reading right where I need to be.
Recently I have felt very down and hopeless, the Word has provided strength ...

Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. Hebrews 10:23

Now, faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders ... let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Hebrew 12:1

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:2-3

MY Prayer for today:
Lord, I pray that you would continue to multiply the faith you have planted in me. May the truth of your Word be firmly established in my heat so faith will grow daily. Help me to trust you at all times - in all situations. Amen.

blessings ....

GRACE AND PEACE!

Sad News

Yesterday when I got home from school I received some very sad news. A dear friend and High School volleyball teammate, Susan Smith Dallas, passed away Sunday night. At this time, all we know is that it was a heart attack, she had developed a heart issues after birth of her son.

Our mothers were friends growing up, and we always knew of each other - but not until our Jr and Sr year in high school did we really connect. She was a warm, friendly, kind person with one of the best laughs ever. She attended Bradley University, while I was in college I saw her for sure one time every year when Southern would travel to Bradley for our VB match. She often had some type of goodie for me. Very Thoughtful - does not even come close to describing Susan. At her wedding, she and her husband had one of the most entertaining first dances ever, all the guests were impressed with their tapping ability. What a sad loss for us, but I trust God has a plan and was ready to use her in other ways.
I can be confident that she is with the Lord, for that I am grateful.

Please pray for her family.
She leaves behind a husband, son, brother and many friends. Susan never knew a stranger - What a blessing she has been to so many people.

GRACE AND PEACE

I AM

Driving over to watch the Illini play was great. It was fun to see Aaron's stomping ground and hear his stories and once again show me the numerous places he lived. We walked quite a bit, and today I feel it! Glad we set our clocks back and I got the extra hour of sleep! The football stadium has been renovated since his playing days and is gorgeous! To top the day off, the Illini won:)

During the drive, I read the final 2 chapters of Life On Loan to Aaron. I had read them, but wanted him to hear them as well. Our group is behind the church in the study, so we were just finishing up. As I read the final chapters I realized I was not just reading to Aaron, but to myself.

When I consider the current trial in my life I spend sometime questioning why me - but the more times I feel Jeremy move and flip and see how my belly has grown all I see is a miracle. Then when reading this passage ... I realize Paul's trial was even worse:

" I have ... been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. Five times I received ... forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea. I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my own countrymen, in danger from gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false brothers." 2 Corinthians 11:23-26

The book states our questions should not be "Why did God allow this" but "How can God use this in my life to make me more like the person he wants me to be?" We can not always choose what happens to us, but we do get to choose how we respond.

A littler later on, the book talks about Moses. He was called by God from his life, to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Moses tried to get out of it using excuse after excuse why he was not the right person - then God had enough of the excuses and told Moses to tell the people ... " I AM has sent me to you!" Exodus 3:14.

I can think of many reasons why I fall short of the call God has placed on me - reading this part of the book I was moved and know that will fall short every time, that is why God not only said to Moses but all if us " I AM is all you need!"

• I am not wise enough - God says, I AM
• I am not confident in myself - I AM
• I am not sure of the answers - I AM
• I am uncertain of the time - I AM
• I am not strong enough - I AM
• I am not over my past - I AM
• I am not capable - I AM
• I am not sure of my story - I AM

God will use me and you to make an eternal difference in the world. HE will help us through everything. He will guide and lead us to become who he needs for the Kingdom - once we decide to do what he is asking. GLORY!!!!!!

GRACE AND PEACE!