Saturday, February 28, 2015
Guess what? I've moved!
Since I haven't been keeping up with my blog, I've created a site specifically for Haley Joy Photography. Head on over to www.haleyjoyphotography.com to see what I've been up to!
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Bittersweet happenings...
I've spent the past few days packing up all of the belongings and trinkets I have accumulated over the past few years while residing at my cozy little home, and with every box I pack, I pack memories, life lessons, and a little piece of my heart. As I close the most recent chapter in my life and prepare to start a new
one, I'm finding that I am a bit more attached to good ole Cleveland,
Tennessee than I ever cared to admit.
This is where I've transformed from a girl, to a woman.
This is where I've learned to balance work, school, and play.
This is where I've learned independence.
This is where I have had my heart broken.
This is where I've picked up those pieces and let God mend them back together.
This is where I've found the one whom my soul loves.
This is where I've learned to be the best woman I can be, for me.
This is where I've learned the importance of work ethic.
This is where I've learned the art of forgiveness.
This is where I've found my calling.
This is where I've laughed til I've cried.
This is where I've met some of the most extraordinary friends.
This is where they've changed my life.
Someone recently asked me, "what has life taught you?". As I pondered all of the things that life has taught me, I realized that I have learned majority of those lessons while living here in Cleveland. I've said it countless times that I am ready to close this chapter in my life, but as I sit here in my cozy living room in the presence of some of the sweetest girls I know, I realize the importance of soaking up and appreciating every last second I have in the most influential place I've ever lived. I'm so thankful for the time I've spent amidst the beautiful mountains of good ole Rocky Top, and for the woman I've become over the course of the past 5 years. I can't wait to see all that Columbia, South Carolina has in store for me.
This is where I've transformed from a girl, to a woman.
This is where I've learned to balance work, school, and play.
This is where I've learned independence.
This is where I have had my heart broken.
This is where I've picked up those pieces and let God mend them back together.
This is where I've found the one whom my soul loves.
This is where I've learned to be the best woman I can be, for me.
This is where I've learned the importance of work ethic.
This is where I've learned the art of forgiveness.
This is where I've found my calling.
This is where I've laughed til I've cried.
This is where I've met some of the most extraordinary friends.
This is where they've changed my life.
Someone recently asked me, "what has life taught you?". As I pondered all of the things that life has taught me, I realized that I have learned majority of those lessons while living here in Cleveland. I've said it countless times that I am ready to close this chapter in my life, but as I sit here in my cozy living room in the presence of some of the sweetest girls I know, I realize the importance of soaking up and appreciating every last second I have in the most influential place I've ever lived. I'm so thankful for the time I've spent amidst the beautiful mountains of good ole Rocky Top, and for the woman I've become over the course of the past 5 years. I can't wait to see all that Columbia, South Carolina has in store for me.
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Undeserving...
First, allow me to apologize for the lack of structure to the following post. My brain is going nine hundred miles an hour with things that need to be shared NOW.
Okay, so when was the last time you thought about how terrible of a person you are? Like how filthy, dishonest, deceitful, selfish, arrogant, rude, inconsiderate, unloving, narcissistic you are? Be honest with yourself for a second. Think about those deep, dark corners of your being that you are so embarrassed of; dusty, full of shame. Think about the things you have done that you wish you could undo. Think about the things you wish you could unsay. The thoughts you wish you could unthink. We all have an instant in our minds that we are haunted by, a moment we regret... that one thing you wish you could go back and change. Something we are too ashamed to admit to the people we love, or anyone for that matter. {feel like scum yet?}
Okay, so now think about all of the awesome things you have. Your loving and caring family. Your friends that would sacrifice anything for you. The spouse that has promised the rest of his/her life to you. The children you've raised from birth. Think about all of your talents and passions. Think about the roof over your head. The food in your cabinet. The job you have. The money you're making. That nagging boss who drives you crazy; he/she is the reason you have the job you do. Big or small, whether we have a little or a lot, we all have that one thing in our lives we are so thankful for. That we are so undeserving of.
But that's just it.
We are undeserving. Of everything we have. If our belongings and blessings were in accordance with our actions and we received them based on those actions and thoughts... we would have absolutely nothing.
I was laying in bed tonight attempting to sleep but my mind just kept racing and jumping all over the place. I found myself thinking about Christian and eventually it led to me thanking God for him. I've prayed so long for this kind of love; a love that is only a sliver of Christ's love for me. I've prayed to find a man who is God-fearing, passionate and driven, tender yet strong... Never could I have imagined someone so exquisitely wonderful would ask me to marry him. I don't deserve that. Wait.... I don't deserve that. I don't deserve a love like this, and that's only a fraction of Christ's love for me. I'm so overwhelmed... I don't deserve this finite love I've found on earth, and I most certainly do not deserve the love of Christ in Heaven. A love more infinite than I can understand. A love I can't comprehend. THE most perfect being there ever was, is or will ever be loves ME! Despite those imperfections I stated above, despite all of the ugly, He continues to LOVE me daily. He continues to bless me daily with things I don't deserve. Gosh... what a thought!
Wherever you are, whatever time it is, stop and thank God for what you have. You do not deserve it. Praise Him for His goodness and grace! Because He deserves it.
xo,
Haley
Okay, so when was the last time you thought about how terrible of a person you are? Like how filthy, dishonest, deceitful, selfish, arrogant, rude, inconsiderate, unloving, narcissistic you are? Be honest with yourself for a second. Think about those deep, dark corners of your being that you are so embarrassed of; dusty, full of shame. Think about the things you have done that you wish you could undo. Think about the things you wish you could unsay. The thoughts you wish you could unthink. We all have an instant in our minds that we are haunted by, a moment we regret... that one thing you wish you could go back and change. Something we are too ashamed to admit to the people we love, or anyone for that matter. {feel like scum yet?}
Okay, so now think about all of the awesome things you have. Your loving and caring family. Your friends that would sacrifice anything for you. The spouse that has promised the rest of his/her life to you. The children you've raised from birth. Think about all of your talents and passions. Think about the roof over your head. The food in your cabinet. The job you have. The money you're making. That nagging boss who drives you crazy; he/she is the reason you have the job you do. Big or small, whether we have a little or a lot, we all have that one thing in our lives we are so thankful for. That we are so undeserving of.
But that's just it.
We are undeserving. Of everything we have. If our belongings and blessings were in accordance with our actions and we received them based on those actions and thoughts... we would have absolutely nothing.
I was laying in bed tonight attempting to sleep but my mind just kept racing and jumping all over the place. I found myself thinking about Christian and eventually it led to me thanking God for him. I've prayed so long for this kind of love; a love that is only a sliver of Christ's love for me. I've prayed to find a man who is God-fearing, passionate and driven, tender yet strong... Never could I have imagined someone so exquisitely wonderful would ask me to marry him. I don't deserve that. Wait.... I don't deserve that. I don't deserve a love like this, and that's only a fraction of Christ's love for me. I'm so overwhelmed... I don't deserve this finite love I've found on earth, and I most certainly do not deserve the love of Christ in Heaven. A love more infinite than I can understand. A love I can't comprehend. THE most perfect being there ever was, is or will ever be loves ME! Despite those imperfections I stated above, despite all of the ugly, He continues to LOVE me daily. He continues to bless me daily with things I don't deserve. Gosh... what a thought!
Wherever you are, whatever time it is, stop and thank God for what you have. You do not deserve it. Praise Him for His goodness and grace! Because He deserves it.
xo,
Haley
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Two Birds, One Stone...
As a little girl I was never one to play with dolls or Barbies, but I sure did love playing dress up. There was something so fantastic about idealizing the future and doing "grown up" things. I vividly remember putting on this itchy white dress with sparkles down the front [see below, on right], hating it for the itchies but loving so much the idea of being a bride and finding the man of my dreams. [If you knew me as a child, you would know that I hate itchies, and when my socks weren't right.]
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Although a lot has changed since the days of dress up and make-believe, some things have stayed the same. I still hate itchies and when my socks aren't right, and the little blonde cutie in the photo is, to this day, one of my dearest friends. The difference between then and now, though, is that my dreams of being a bride are becoming a reality. I am having an incredibly difficult time grasping that! And, I have found THE man of my dreams! This time in my life is so much more special than I could ever have imagined.
If you have followed this blog over the past few years, you will know that my life has been a series of highs and lows since moving to Cleveland. During one of those "low" periods, I spent many nights laying awake, journaling, weeping, and creating a "stick person" of the man of my dreams; a list of personality traits, things I expected to find in a man. I decided that I wasn't going to date a man until I knew for sure that he fit the "stick figure" I had created in my mind. ...& then came Christian. Just over a year ago he swept me off my feet and I can honestly say my life hasn't been the same since October 8th, 2011. I was so excited when he asked me on our first date, I spent the entire day primping and changing outfits, eventually deciding to go out and buy a completely new outfit from head to toe. I remember sitting in the living room waiting for the doorbell to ring, praying to God that my nervousness wouldn't show and that my "smoky eye" wasn't too dark. He took me to St. John's in Chattanooga and it was undoubtedly the most memorable first date I have ever been on to date, for more than one reason! He thought I was special; this wonderfully passionate, strong, handsome man thought I was special! All my life I've prayed that God would bring a man into my life who would romance me, and that he did!
Over the course of the past year we have laughed together, cried together, fought like siblings and loved each other more every day. He has become my closest friend in the world. He is far better than the "dream husband" I idealized as a child. He is infinitely more special than any "stick figure" I've created as an adult. And now, I get to call him my fiancé! On October 13th 2012 in St. John's restaurant, Christian Phelps asked me to be his wife... And I said YES! Can you believe it? I went off to Lee and got my MRS degree!
If you have followed this blog over the past few years, you will know that my life has been a series of highs and lows since moving to Cleveland. During one of those "low" periods, I spent many nights laying awake, journaling, weeping, and creating a "stick person" of the man of my dreams; a list of personality traits, things I expected to find in a man. I decided that I wasn't going to date a man until I knew for sure that he fit the "stick figure" I had created in my mind. ...& then came Christian. Just over a year ago he swept me off my feet and I can honestly say my life hasn't been the same since October 8th, 2011. I was so excited when he asked me on our first date, I spent the entire day primping and changing outfits, eventually deciding to go out and buy a completely new outfit from head to toe. I remember sitting in the living room waiting for the doorbell to ring, praying to God that my nervousness wouldn't show and that my "smoky eye" wasn't too dark. He took me to St. John's in Chattanooga and it was undoubtedly the most memorable first date I have ever been on to date, for more than one reason! He thought I was special; this wonderfully passionate, strong, handsome man thought I was special! All my life I've prayed that God would bring a man into my life who would romance me, and that he did!
Over the course of the past year we have laughed together, cried together, fought like siblings and loved each other more every day. He has become my closest friend in the world. He is far better than the "dream husband" I idealized as a child. He is infinitely more special than any "stick figure" I've created as an adult. And now, I get to call him my fiancé! On October 13th 2012 in St. John's restaurant, Christian Phelps asked me to be his wife... And I said YES! Can you believe it? I went off to Lee and got my MRS degree!
On our way to St. John's
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My guy! So calm, cool and collect.
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The most special moment of my entire life.
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Tada! (We sure do look good, despite the tears!)
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Self Improvement...
As a young woman {curiously meandering} my way through the real world, I feel it is very important that I am independent. It pleases me greatly to be able to do things on my own, pay my own bills and to create my own path. I am so empowered when I set my mind on something and accomplish it completely on my own. I think that's every woman's dream, whether admitted or not. We all want to look back on our lives when we're old and gray and be able to say that our successes are the product of all the blood, sweat and tears we poured into our dreams. These successes determine our self worth. They keep us from settling for anything ordinary and keep us reaching for more.
Now, just as I believe every woman owes it to herself to prove how capable she is to make her dreams reality, I believe it is equally important not to do it alone. Every woman deserves to have a companion to remind her how incredible she is and appreciate her ability to hold her own. I think it goes without saying that behind every strong man, there is an even stronger woman. (Honestly, it'll take a heroine to put up with some of you!)
As I'm sure you've gathered by now, I am going through a growth spurt. This time last year I was undoubtedly whole in myself... And then this wonderful thing happened. This time last year, the most magnificent man swooped me off my feet. Before I knew it, I reestablished my emotional dependence on him instead of myself and it has made me a bitter, bitter woman. Emotional independence is something I have always struggled with, and I guess I didn't realize that until recently. That same magnificent man who swooped me off my feet set me down a few weeks ago and the ground has been shaking beneath me ever since, and I have no one to blame but myself.
See, establishing my independence as an emotionally stable woman was one battle, but maintaining that independence is the war. I'm learning that it's something I must fight for every day. That being said, I do not anticipate the next few months in my life. Right now, being fulfilled in myself is my dream. I know that when December rolls around I will be able to look back and say that the blood, sweat and tears I've put into fighting this battle of self reliance will make me more attractive to man of my dreams. It'll make me better, and not bitter.
Now, just as I believe every woman owes it to herself to prove how capable she is to make her dreams reality, I believe it is equally important not to do it alone. Every woman deserves to have a companion to remind her how incredible she is and appreciate her ability to hold her own. I think it goes without saying that behind every strong man, there is an even stronger woman. (Honestly, it'll take a heroine to put up with some of you!)
As I'm sure you've gathered by now, I am going through a growth spurt. This time last year I was undoubtedly whole in myself... And then this wonderful thing happened. This time last year, the most magnificent man swooped me off my feet. Before I knew it, I reestablished my emotional dependence on him instead of myself and it has made me a bitter, bitter woman. Emotional independence is something I have always struggled with, and I guess I didn't realize that until recently. That same magnificent man who swooped me off my feet set me down a few weeks ago and the ground has been shaking beneath me ever since, and I have no one to blame but myself.
See, establishing my independence as an emotionally stable woman was one battle, but maintaining that independence is the war. I'm learning that it's something I must fight for every day. That being said, I do not anticipate the next few months in my life. Right now, being fulfilled in myself is my dream. I know that when December rolls around I will be able to look back and say that the blood, sweat and tears I've put into fighting this battle of self reliance will make me more attractive to man of my dreams. It'll make me better, and not bitter.
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Graduation
Just a little preview of my gorgeous siblings graduation pictures.
...& my sweet friend, Megan.
...& my sweet friend, Megan.
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Crispy...
Okay, yes, I know. It's not possible for me to be any more cliche right now. I am probably going to make people hate me for this. But whatever, I am happy, and if you don't want to hear about it then go ahead and hit that big red X in the top right hand corner of the screen! You can't say I didn't warn you.
I am so thankful for my sweet, handsome man, Joseph Christian Phelps. For so many reasons. Let me tell you why.
Lately I have been praying and asking the Lord to help me have a Christ-like attitude and to treat the people in my life the way He treats us. Christ is so patient, so selfless, and so passionate about us- even when we fail Him daily. Despite how unclean we are. That's the best part!! He's consistent. His love never decreases, never stops. What a perfect kind of love!! I was sitting at work a few nights ago, thinking about this, and thinking about how Christian's love for me emulates Christs love for us.
He is patient. When we met I was in no condition to be in a relationship, so he waited. He could have forgotten all about me and gone on to the next girl... but he didn't. He gave me space, he gave me time, and he walked back in to my life exactly when I needed him. Words can't begin to express just how much that means to me.
He is selfless. I am convinced that man would do anything to keep me satisfied and smiling. And he does. Daily.
He is passionate. I feel his love for me in a text message, in a smile across the room... and when he reaches over to hold my hand it shakes the very core of my being. He loves me for my mistakes and flaws and for who I am as a woman.
He is consistent. ...As consistent as he can be. Humans were made inconsistent; we do not comprehend unconditional love. But he loves me the same during my wicked mood swings and even when my feet stink. Now that's love, my friends.
I am so thankful that Christian is a step ahead of me. I am desiring and striving to love the way Christ loves-- while Christian is excelling at it. I am undeserving to call such an extraordinarily wonderful man the love of my life and I will never feel a love in the flesh as powerful as this for as long as I live.
I am so thankful for my sweet, handsome man, Joseph Christian Phelps. For so many reasons. Let me tell you why.
Lately I have been praying and asking the Lord to help me have a Christ-like attitude and to treat the people in my life the way He treats us. Christ is so patient, so selfless, and so passionate about us- even when we fail Him daily. Despite how unclean we are. That's the best part!! He's consistent. His love never decreases, never stops. What a perfect kind of love!! I was sitting at work a few nights ago, thinking about this, and thinking about how Christian's love for me emulates Christs love for us.
He is patient. When we met I was in no condition to be in a relationship, so he waited. He could have forgotten all about me and gone on to the next girl... but he didn't. He gave me space, he gave me time, and he walked back in to my life exactly when I needed him. Words can't begin to express just how much that means to me.
He is selfless. I am convinced that man would do anything to keep me satisfied and smiling. And he does. Daily.
He is passionate. I feel his love for me in a text message, in a smile across the room... and when he reaches over to hold my hand it shakes the very core of my being. He loves me for my mistakes and flaws and for who I am as a woman.
He is consistent. ...As consistent as he can be. Humans were made inconsistent; we do not comprehend unconditional love. But he loves me the same during my wicked mood swings and even when my feet stink. Now that's love, my friends.
I am so thankful that Christian is a step ahead of me. I am desiring and striving to love the way Christ loves-- while Christian is excelling at it. I am undeserving to call such an extraordinarily wonderful man the love of my life and I will never feel a love in the flesh as powerful as this for as long as I live.
Saturday, March 31, 2012
You are for me.
This song has been such a blessing to me lately. I hope that the lyrics will be encouraging to you today. Enjoy!
So faithful, so constant and so true
So powerful in all You do
You fill me, You see me
You know my every move
You love for me to sing to You
I know that You are for me, I know that You are for me
I know that You will never forsake me in my weakness
And I know that You have come now even if to write upon my heart
To remind me who You are
So patient, so gracious, so merciful and true
So wonderful in all You do
You fill me, You see me
You know my every move
You love for me to sing to You
Lord, I know that You are for me, I know that You are for me
I know that You will never forsake me in my weakness
And I know that You have come now even if to write upon my heart
To remind me
Lord, I know that You are for me, I know that You are for me
I know that You will never forsake me in my weakness
And I know that You have come now even if to write upon my heart
To remind me who You are
To remind me
I know that You are for me, I know that You are for me
I know that You will never forsake me in my weakness
And I know that You have come now even if to write upon my heart
To remind me who You are
So powerful in all You do
You fill me, You see me
You know my every move
You love for me to sing to You
I know that You are for me, I know that You are for me
I know that You will never forsake me in my weakness
And I know that You have come now even if to write upon my heart
To remind me who You are
So patient, so gracious, so merciful and true
So wonderful in all You do
You fill me, You see me
You know my every move
You love for me to sing to You
Lord, I know that You are for me, I know that You are for me
I know that You will never forsake me in my weakness
And I know that You have come now even if to write upon my heart
To remind me
Lord, I know that You are for me, I know that You are for me
I know that You will never forsake me in my weakness
And I know that You have come now even if to write upon my heart
To remind me who You are
To remind me
I know that You are for me, I know that You are for me
I know that You will never forsake me in my weakness
And I know that You have come now even if to write upon my heart
To remind me who You are
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
The ultimate dichotomy...
As each day comes and goes I am more and more aware that my college career is rapidly coming to an end. In the midst of this time in my life I am overwhelmed with post-graduation thoughts and concerns, primarily in the aspect of finances.
Where will I find employment?
Will I ever get these wretched loans paid off?
Should I move home after I graduate?
Will I ever be able to afford the future life I've created for myself on Pinterest?!
I am sure that many of you can relate!
...and then it hits me. Matthew 6:24
"No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate one and love the other, or you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money."
As Christians we are so quick to preach this, but how easy it is for this generation to fall captive to money! We spend 4 (or more) years preparing to walk across the stage for a piece of paper that certifies the time, effort, energy and finances we have sacrificed to attain an education which we hope will bring us to a state of financial stability and success in our careers. Of course we are going to be driven by money, success is measured by money. This has been drilled into our brains since our kindergarten teacher asked us "what do you want to be when you grow up?"...and so the seed has been sewn. It's like the ultimate rat race; we are mice on a wheel chasing cheese and once we get it, we only want more of it. It's a toxic cycle of "make more money, have more nice things", what beautiful music to Satan's ears. I think our viewpoints on money and success would be vastly different if we chose to view it as a resource from God that He has entrusted to us, instead of the earnings of our hard work. Just as we are accountable when we borrow something from a friend, we will be held accountable for the way we handle all the resources that God has blessed us with.
This ultimate dichotomy is a matter of perspective and choice. We can choose now to be a slave for God who is free from anxiety and seek first the Kingdom of Righteousness and everlasting treasure, while always remembering that our resources are not our own. Or we can be held captive by greed and perpetual anxiety, failing to acknowledge God and therefore blind to His eternal order and living as self pleasing individuals. Right here is where rubber meets the road. Who are you choosing to serve?
Where will I find employment?
Will I ever get these wretched loans paid off?
Should I move home after I graduate?
Will I ever be able to afford the future life I've created for myself on Pinterest?!
I am sure that many of you can relate!
...and then it hits me. Matthew 6:24
"No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate one and love the other, or you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money."
As Christians we are so quick to preach this, but how easy it is for this generation to fall captive to money! We spend 4 (or more) years preparing to walk across the stage for a piece of paper that certifies the time, effort, energy and finances we have sacrificed to attain an education which we hope will bring us to a state of financial stability and success in our careers. Of course we are going to be driven by money, success is measured by money. This has been drilled into our brains since our kindergarten teacher asked us "what do you want to be when you grow up?"...and so the seed has been sewn. It's like the ultimate rat race; we are mice on a wheel chasing cheese and once we get it, we only want more of it. It's a toxic cycle of "make more money, have more nice things", what beautiful music to Satan's ears. I think our viewpoints on money and success would be vastly different if we chose to view it as a resource from God that He has entrusted to us, instead of the earnings of our hard work. Just as we are accountable when we borrow something from a friend, we will be held accountable for the way we handle all the resources that God has blessed us with.
This ultimate dichotomy is a matter of perspective and choice. We can choose now to be a slave for God who is free from anxiety and seek first the Kingdom of Righteousness and everlasting treasure, while always remembering that our resources are not our own. Or we can be held captive by greed and perpetual anxiety, failing to acknowledge God and therefore blind to His eternal order and living as self pleasing individuals. Right here is where rubber meets the road. Who are you choosing to serve?
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
All for love...
Happy Valentine's Day, all!
Today I write this blog for you with the exact same point of view about Valentine's day as I did last year, although I am in a very different place in my life. It's so funny how some things change yet other things remain exactly the same. I still think this holiday is extremely superficial, and instead should be more about telling the special people in our lives that we love them rather than showering them in gifts... But that's just me!
As every Valentine's day comes and goes I am reminded of the most precious Love I am continually shown every day, even though I am so undeserving. It never changes, never falters, never fails. This morning as I was starting my day I turned my iPod on shuffle and the song All for Love by Hillsong United was the first song to play. What a perfect way to start this holiday of love! I would like to encourage each of you to take a listen and celebrate the lyrics of this song. As this holiday passes the flowers will wither and the excitement will diminish, but the Love of our Father will remain today and forevermore. Whether you are single, married, or dating, let this Love be the very center of your celebration today.
Today I write this blog for you with the exact same point of view about Valentine's day as I did last year, although I am in a very different place in my life. It's so funny how some things change yet other things remain exactly the same. I still think this holiday is extremely superficial, and instead should be more about telling the special people in our lives that we love them rather than showering them in gifts... But that's just me!
As every Valentine's day comes and goes I am reminded of the most precious Love I am continually shown every day, even though I am so undeserving. It never changes, never falters, never fails. This morning as I was starting my day I turned my iPod on shuffle and the song All for Love by Hillsong United was the first song to play. What a perfect way to start this holiday of love! I would like to encourage each of you to take a listen and celebrate the lyrics of this song. As this holiday passes the flowers will wither and the excitement will diminish, but the Love of our Father will remain today and forevermore. Whether you are single, married, or dating, let this Love be the very center of your celebration today.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
My kindred spirit...
Well friends, this is a tough week for me! In two measly days, my sweet little Elizabeth Joy will be finished with her undergraduate classes at Lee University and will be moving back to Indiana to start her first big girl job, getting hitched to the man of her dreams in June, and beginning grad school in the fall! Needless to say, I am so proud of her and I feel so blessed to have been just a small part of such an extraordinary person's life. I never would have guessed that the spunky little twerp I sat next to in Coral's class would become such a dear friend of mine. She's become my family over the past two years, and quite frankly the she is the only person on the planet I can share my bizarre quirks with.
Even though things are changing, I know that regardless of where life takes us she will always be my best girl, my kindred spirit, my lizard!
Even though things are changing, I know that regardless of where life takes us she will always be my best girl, my kindred spirit, my lizard!
How lucky I am to have known someone that makes saying goodbye so hard.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Count your many blessings...
During this season of my life I have so much to be thankful for. Even though I should probably show my appreciate for these things more than around the holidays, here are just a few things that I am beyond grateful for.
-First and foremost, I am so thankful to be a daughter of the King Most High. I am thankful that, no matter what I do, I will never be plucked from His hand. I am undeserving of that kind of love!
-I am thankful for a precious family that I enjoy spending time with; a momma I can always depend on, a daddy who always provides and loves, and 3 great siblings who I can call my very best friends.
-I am thankful for my sweet little friends both in Cleveland and from home, both new and old, and for those friends who have become family.
-I am thankful to have the opportunity for a higher education... even though sometimes it makes me want to rip my hair out!
-I am thankful to be somebody's Bella, and for the joy that new relationships bring.
-I am thankful for my job. Helping women change their lives for the better every single day is truly a blessing.
-I am so thankful to be able to say that I have everything I need in a world of constant dissatisfaction.
What are you thankful for this holiday season?
-First and foremost, I am so thankful to be a daughter of the King Most High. I am thankful that, no matter what I do, I will never be plucked from His hand. I am undeserving of that kind of love!
-I am thankful for a precious family that I enjoy spending time with; a momma I can always depend on, a daddy who always provides and loves, and 3 great siblings who I can call my very best friends.
-I am thankful for my sweet little friends both in Cleveland and from home, both new and old, and for those friends who have become family.
-I am thankful to have the opportunity for a higher education... even though sometimes it makes me want to rip my hair out!
-I am thankful to be somebody's Bella, and for the joy that new relationships bring.
-I am thankful for my job. Helping women change their lives for the better every single day is truly a blessing.
-I am so thankful to be able to say that I have everything I need in a world of constant dissatisfaction.
What are you thankful for this holiday season?
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
ALL to Him I owe...
Taken from Radical by David Platt
"Picture Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane. As he kneels before his Father, drops of sweat and blood fall together from his head. Why is he in such agony and pain? The answer is not because he is afraid of crucifixion. He is not trembling because of what the Roman soldiers are about to do to him.
Since that day countless men and women in history of Christianity have died for their faith. Some of them were not just hung on crosses; they were burned there. Many of them went to their crosses singing.
Did these men and women in Christian history have more courage than Christ himself? Why was he trembling in that garden, weeping full of anguish? We can rest assured that he was not a coward about to face Roman soldiers. Instead he was a savior about to endure divine wrath.
Listen to his words: "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me." The "cup" is not a reference to a wooden cross; it is a reference to divine judgment. It is the cup of God's wrath.
This is what Jesus is recoiling from in the garden. All God's holy wrath and hatred toward sin and sinners, stored up since the beginning of the world, is about to be poured out on him, and he is sweating blood at the thought of it.
What happened at the Cross was not primarily about nails being thrust into Jesus' hands and feet but about the wrath due your sin and my sin being thrust upon his soul. In that holy moment, all the righteous wrath and justice of God due us came rushing down like a torrent on Christ himself. Some say, "God looked down and could not bear to see the suffering that the soldiers were inflicting in Jesus, so he turned away." But this is not true. God turned away because he could not bear to see your sin and my sin on his son.
This is the gospel. The just and loving Creator of the universe has looked upon hopelessly sinful people and sent his Son, God in the flesh, to bear his wrath against sin on the cross and to show his power over sin in the Resurrection so that all who trust in him will be reconciled to God forever.
So how do we respond to this gospel? Suddenly contemporary Christianity sales pitches don't seem adequate anymore. Ask Jesus to come into your heart. Invite Jesus to come into your life. Pray this prayer, sign this card, walk down this aisle, and accept Jesus as your personal Savior. Our attempt to reduce this gospel to a shrink-wrapped presentation that persuades someone to say or pray the right things back to us no longer seems appropriate.
That is why none of these man-made catch phrases are in the Bible. You will not find a verse in Scripture where people are told to "bow your heads, close your eyes, and repeat after me." You will not find a place where a superstitious sinner's prayer is even mentioned. And you will not find an emphasis on accepting Jesus. We have taken the infinitely glorious Son of God, who endured the infinitely terrible wrath of God and who now reigns as the infinitely worthy Lord of all, and we have reduced him to a poor, puny Savior who is just begging for us to accept him.
Accept him? Do we really think Jesus needs our acceptance? Don't we need him?
I invite you to consider with me a proper response to this gospel. Surely more than praying a prayer is involved. Surely more than religious attendance is warranted. Surely this gospel evokes unconditional surrender of all that we are and all that we have to all that he is."
"Picture Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane. As he kneels before his Father, drops of sweat and blood fall together from his head. Why is he in such agony and pain? The answer is not because he is afraid of crucifixion. He is not trembling because of what the Roman soldiers are about to do to him.
Since that day countless men and women in history of Christianity have died for their faith. Some of them were not just hung on crosses; they were burned there. Many of them went to their crosses singing.
Did these men and women in Christian history have more courage than Christ himself? Why was he trembling in that garden, weeping full of anguish? We can rest assured that he was not a coward about to face Roman soldiers. Instead he was a savior about to endure divine wrath.
Listen to his words: "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me." The "cup" is not a reference to a wooden cross; it is a reference to divine judgment. It is the cup of God's wrath.
This is what Jesus is recoiling from in the garden. All God's holy wrath and hatred toward sin and sinners, stored up since the beginning of the world, is about to be poured out on him, and he is sweating blood at the thought of it.
What happened at the Cross was not primarily about nails being thrust into Jesus' hands and feet but about the wrath due your sin and my sin being thrust upon his soul. In that holy moment, all the righteous wrath and justice of God due us came rushing down like a torrent on Christ himself. Some say, "God looked down and could not bear to see the suffering that the soldiers were inflicting in Jesus, so he turned away." But this is not true. God turned away because he could not bear to see your sin and my sin on his son.
This is the gospel. The just and loving Creator of the universe has looked upon hopelessly sinful people and sent his Son, God in the flesh, to bear his wrath against sin on the cross and to show his power over sin in the Resurrection so that all who trust in him will be reconciled to God forever.
So how do we respond to this gospel? Suddenly contemporary Christianity sales pitches don't seem adequate anymore. Ask Jesus to come into your heart. Invite Jesus to come into your life. Pray this prayer, sign this card, walk down this aisle, and accept Jesus as your personal Savior. Our attempt to reduce this gospel to a shrink-wrapped presentation that persuades someone to say or pray the right things back to us no longer seems appropriate.
That is why none of these man-made catch phrases are in the Bible. You will not find a verse in Scripture where people are told to "bow your heads, close your eyes, and repeat after me." You will not find a place where a superstitious sinner's prayer is even mentioned. And you will not find an emphasis on accepting Jesus. We have taken the infinitely glorious Son of God, who endured the infinitely terrible wrath of God and who now reigns as the infinitely worthy Lord of all, and we have reduced him to a poor, puny Savior who is just begging for us to accept him.
Accept him? Do we really think Jesus needs our acceptance? Don't we need him?
I invite you to consider with me a proper response to this gospel. Surely more than praying a prayer is involved. Surely more than religious attendance is warranted. Surely this gospel evokes unconditional surrender of all that we are and all that we have to all that he is."
Friday, November 4, 2011
Changes...
Are you finding yourself living with a critical spirit today? How frequently are you passing judgment on others, without legitimate knowledge of their situation? Even further, how likely are you to discuss another persons predicaments without their direct permission? I am willing to bet that a good majority of us Christians are as guilty as anyone else when it comes to being critical of others.
“Why do you criticize and pass judgment on your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of God. Then let us no more criticize and blame and pass judgment on one another, but rather decide and endeavor never to put a stumbling block or an obstacle or a hindrance in the way of a brother.”
Romans 14:10-13
I pray that these words bring your mind to a screeching halt the next time you begin to judge or criticize others. You will never fully know the content of another persons heart, therefore hold no right to criticize their decisions. Furthermore, I pray that you think before you pass judgment, and remember that scripture warns us to not be a hindrance to His followers.
Have you ever noticed how we do not judge ourselves in the same context as we judge others? When we judge ourselves we tend to look at our intentions, yet when we look at others, we judge immediately by their actions. Judgment is not yours to pass. I pray that from today forward you will let your actions reflect your good intentions and be content with only judging yourself in order to align your walk with His Word. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you; Do unto others as YOU would do unto YOU.
Have you ever noticed how we do not judge ourselves in the same context as we judge others? When we judge ourselves we tend to look at our intentions, yet when we look at others, we judge immediately by their actions. Judgment is not yours to pass. I pray that from today forward you will let your actions reflect your good intentions and be content with only judging yourself in order to align your walk with His Word. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you; Do unto others as YOU would do unto YOU.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Modesty.
"Nothing can atone for the lack of modesty; without which beauty is ungraceful and wit detestable."-Richard Steele Sr.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Thursday, September 22, 2011
September 22nd.
If you know me at all, you know that Nathan Angelo is by far, without a doubt, my absolute favorite artist. I hope you enjoy his new video of September 22nd on this special 'normal day'.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Sexy Christians
Yeah, you read that correctly. Last night I attended a seminar on campus by the wonderful Dr. Carter, and she had some very interesting things to say. Throughout the whole seminar I was itchin' to share all of this with you. That being said, let's talk about the big, fat elephant in the room. Get this...
God is a sexual entity. Let that marinade for a minute.
He created sex.
And He created sex to be enjoyed, post-marriage of course.
WHOA. Kinda gross, right? It shouldn't be. I was talking to one of my friends the other day about sex after marriage. We both agreed that when we finally get married, sex being "allowed" will be one of the hardest parts to get used to. We have both grown up being taught that sex is forbidden, and it should be forbidden before marriage. But it makes sense that we would think that way! The reason that the words "sex" and "christian" don't go together today is because of the church. Before you decide to stop reading and chew me out, let me explain. I feel as though the church is in constant competition with the world. The world says sex before marriage is a necessity; the church's reply is either non-existent, or it's that sex is bad. If we don't start talking about sex in the church, people are going to look elsewhere for the answers to those hard questions. They need to know, instead of us only saying "NO!". If we want the younger generations to know the difference between right and wrong we should be open to discussing these things. I would much rather have my siblings (whom are 17) come to me to talk about sex than their peers, because a good bit of their peers are already sexually active and have been for years. You might say that it is inappropriate to discuss the beauty of sex with someone who isn't married. Well, I couldn't disagree more. Instead of teaching that it is forbidden we should teach that it is God-designed, it is beautiful, it's for the marriage bed only, and that it is infinitely more special if it's SAVED for that.
So, for all you single ladies and fellas out there; you wanna be a sexy christian? The absolute sexiest thing you can do is wait for your future husband or wife. I mean, completely wait. No pushing the envelope.
Ladies, keeping your body a secret is sexy. Your husband will love you even more for only sharing that with him. And fellas, keeping your mind pure is sexy. Your wife will love you so much more for sheltering your thoughts and allowing her to be the only lady that you intimately involve in them.
Now go be a sexy christian today.
God is a sexual entity. Let that marinade for a minute.
He created sex.
And He created sex to be enjoyed, post-marriage of course.
WHOA. Kinda gross, right? It shouldn't be. I was talking to one of my friends the other day about sex after marriage. We both agreed that when we finally get married, sex being "allowed" will be one of the hardest parts to get used to. We have both grown up being taught that sex is forbidden, and it should be forbidden before marriage. But it makes sense that we would think that way! The reason that the words "sex" and "christian" don't go together today is because of the church. Before you decide to stop reading and chew me out, let me explain. I feel as though the church is in constant competition with the world. The world says sex before marriage is a necessity; the church's reply is either non-existent, or it's that sex is bad. If we don't start talking about sex in the church, people are going to look elsewhere for the answers to those hard questions. They need to know, instead of us only saying "NO!". If we want the younger generations to know the difference between right and wrong we should be open to discussing these things. I would much rather have my siblings (whom are 17) come to me to talk about sex than their peers, because a good bit of their peers are already sexually active and have been for years. You might say that it is inappropriate to discuss the beauty of sex with someone who isn't married. Well, I couldn't disagree more. Instead of teaching that it is forbidden we should teach that it is God-designed, it is beautiful, it's for the marriage bed only, and that it is infinitely more special if it's SAVED for that.
So, for all you single ladies and fellas out there; you wanna be a sexy christian? The absolute sexiest thing you can do is wait for your future husband or wife. I mean, completely wait. No pushing the envelope.
Ladies, keeping your body a secret is sexy. Your husband will love you even more for only sharing that with him. And fellas, keeping your mind pure is sexy. Your wife will love you so much more for sheltering your thoughts and allowing her to be the only lady that you intimately involve in them.
Now go be a sexy christian today.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Control freak.
I am a control freak.
I absolutely cannot stand it when I don't have control of the outcome of a situation. I am terrified of the unknown. If I can't verbally talk myself through it, I go a little bit insane.
The sad part is I'm not over-pitching this. I genuinely have this overcoming fear that if I am not in charge of every situation in my life, my world will crash and burn. You see, that's a huge problem. By constantly desiring to have control of my life, I'm not letting God be God. Without faith, I am not believing God is God. Hold the phone! If that doesn't eat at your spirit, I don't know what will!
We can't just pick and choose the parts of our lives we give to the Lord and the ones we keep without it affecting our relationship with Him. Surrendering completely means faith unwavering. Faith that God can and will do everything He said He'd do. Without faith, we are a broken tool for the Kingdom of Heaven.
As much as we fight it, we can't change the fact that God has been and always will be in control. Even in those yucky days, He is presently in control. He never leaves. Scripture tells us that
He never sleeps, never naps.
He is never somewhere else, He's omnipresent.
He is never too weak, He is all powerful.
He is never confused, He is all-knowing.
If he weren't in control of all things, He wouldn't be God of all things.
So today, I promise to stop being a worry-wart. I promise to continue to live out each and every for the one purpose of completing His will. I promise to let God be God today, tomorrow, and every day until He calls me home.
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