A Mom, A Sister and A BFF....

A mom, a sister, and a BFF walk into a bar...

Not really but I guess that could be real life?

I recently posted about how my husband cannot be all things to me. To fill in the huge gaps, I have my mom, my sister and my BFF.

My mom, my sister and my BFF are three people I don't praise enough. While my husband, my son and my dad are rightly deserving of my time, attention, and love riddled posts, these three women are three of the many pillars that hold me up.

My mom is like that old friend - you know, the one you don't have to see or talk to all the time but is there when you need her. Conversations with my mom, when there are no distractions and there is a significant topic to cover, are fruitful, calming, comforting, and usually eye opening. We don't have the picture perfect mother/daughter relationship ie. we don't take selfies together. We butt heads. We tell each other things in not always pleasant tones. However, we both know that we love each other with everything we have. I know that I can call her, day or night, and rant or rave about any number of things and she will listen and provide the best feedback (even if it's nothing at all). We understand one another. We stick up for one another. We support one another. We listen to one another. We help one another.

My sister is in a category all on her own. Not because she is just THAT fantastic, but I think sisters deserve their own category. She is different than a mom, and not quite like a BFF. She comprises many of those two people in one - maybe it's because she is older??? This woman is like my "mom-idol". She is seriously the best at all things baby and she is the most creative and involved teacher I know. There is no way in heck I would have survived "mom year 1"...and my son's birthday party would have looked like an epic pinterest fail without her. I look up to her because of our differences... there are many. I've learned to embrace those differences because that's when I learn the most. I like to think we compliment each other...maybe that's because I'm younger? We will never be the same and I wouldn't want it any other way. She keeps me rational, sticks up for me, validates my complaints, lets me make mistakes, is there for me when I do, and I can always count on her to boss me around... even as I approach the age of 30. I wouldn't want it any other way.

My BFF is not your run-of-the-mill kind of girl. She is a selfless, transparent, empowering, and an all together beautiful human being. The amount of "real" I can be with her may be scary to some, but it is such a relief, and it's not just because I've known her half my life. Knowing she can easily call me a selfish brat while at the same time making me feel like a million bucks (which happens about 4 times a week) but finds a way to do it with such grace, is pretty damn special. But on the reals, her friendship is one of a kind. Her ability to uplift, help rationalize, and lend a listening ear is second to none and HOPEFULLY she feels the same about me. This BFF thing should definitely be 50/50. If you don't have one of these, pray for one, because everyone needs one!

The common denominator in all three of these amazing women, is their importance to me. I am very thankful for them, their love and their support. They each bring a special element of perspective into my life and have all taught me so much about "things" and myself.

Loneliness isn't just for those who are alone

Loneliness is not just a word that describes those who are alone in the world.

You could be surrounded by hundreds or thousands of people and still feel lonely. You could be single, without children, away from family and not feel the tiniest bit lonely. Loneliness for an introvert is the opposite of loneliness for an extrovert. Loneliness may be a feeling of longing or the act of removal. It can effect those who have a ton of friends or none at all and visa versa. Loneliness is different for different people.

No matter what it looks like or feels like, loneliness is not something many WANT to be or feel. It is also not something that most people ask for. Why in the heck would you? Loneliness can creep up from scary, dark places. It is on the Devil's side. It can bite you in the behind before you even know it. It can have an adverse effect on your relationships and your livelihood. It can beat you down to a pulp. It can whither you away to dust. Loneliness downright sucks... and it can suck the life right out of you.

If I could develop a product and write an infomercial for a cure to loneliness it would be called, "Community".

"Community" would be described as: a one in a million, tailor made per individual, solution that includes the communication and interaction of one to an infinite number of humans at any given time of day for any given amount of time to help aid in the following:
- Increasing the desire to do life
- Developing higher quality relationships (not increased quantity)
- Practicing accountability
- Learning how to be a better partner
- Understanding what it means to be a good friend
- Bringing you closer to the Lord

Ultimately eliminating loneliness for good!

Side effects would most certainly include - laughing, crying, eating, talking, listening, sharing, enjoying, living, consoling, confiding, benefiting, texting, joking, growing, and so many other wonderful feels that simply are not compatible with loneliness.

Oh wait... community does exist. The hard part is creating it. Take a leap of faith and create community in the new year. Don't fall for the #NewYearNewYou BS.... Face the new year and become a more fabulous version of you along with those you want to form community with. Go to dinner, share in a sport, host people at your house, join a small group or create your own, call or text someone, REACH OUT! I guarantee you, the first person you think of is crying out for community, too.

You won't fail, I promise. God is on your side! Here is to 2016.

Can't Stop, Won't Stop...

Well, I did it. I started my own business. It is an online women's boutique! I've only shared this dream of mine with a select few people and it's finally becoming a reality!

I did all the right things before starting... I had the idea, the passion, I sent prayers and consulted with my husband. I had the most realistic dream about it, read a book and some articles....then it hit me like a ton of bricks, pushing me right over the cliff... and so began LucyGrant.

I'm working on the website...I've purchased inventory... I've researched and advertised and set up all sorts of accounts... I've taken pictures and posted and reposted... But, I haven't made it big yet... YET!

Starting a business is truly a test of many things.

My patience has been tested
My self confidence has been tested
My faith has been tested
My abilities have been tested

But...

I know in my heart this is what I want to do. I know that through this new adventure, and trusting God, that I'll be able to glorify Him and His goodness.

Now for something you might not know...

I want to utilize my new business to inspire women. I want to empower them. I want to spread beauty and love. I want to help build up, restore and encourage. Self image, self worth, self confidence are all MAJORLY important to me. My hope is that, through LucyGrant, I will be able to reach the hearts of many and help them to know their worth in His name via encouraging messages, a new blog, and maybe the sale of a few pieces of clothing... in His name and not in vain.

The Struggle is Real

I don't know about you but I am the kind of person that needs to constantly keep moving forward - in all things: work, relationships, goals, life in general... but this poses a problem when the one thing I truly desire more than anything is relationships with people.

"Why is that a problem?" you may ask.

Mainly because, and this may come a shock to some as it has to me, but not everyone craves relationship. Come to find out, many are OKAY with moving on from whatever relationship they had with you. Whether is be an ex-boyfriend and the horrible break up that was had, or leaving a job and the coworkers you cared about, losing a friend for one reason or another, or realizing that people are comfortable with their current group of "people" and aren't interested in expanding... it sucks no matter what the circumstance. Maintaining, mending, and fostering relationships is hard work.

I also know there are two sides to every story. Maybe someone did try and then they gave up. That makes my little heart sad. I've had to give up before and giving up is not something I deal well with, even if it is inevitable. Maybe it's a "closure" issue... but it's a nagging feeling and it's very hard for me to accept that something has come to an end.

With the holidays upon us, take the time to reach out to someone, make an effort to make amends, offer support, lend an ear, or simply take the time to say "hello". This can be a very lonely time of year for many people.

Update: currently realizing that 1. I may have been nixed from a book club I was part of and 2. Even reaching out to an old friend re: a topic you used to find great joy in sharing, may not prove to be fruitful. Really praying for understanding... These circumstances, while they may seem small to some, are very hard for me. But this is real life, and even though I know some parts of the "why," I may never fully understand....

Merry Christmas!

Life Resolutions

Happy new year!

Ok - maybe I'm a little late. Nevertheless, I hope 2012 has started off on the right foot for you!

I originally wrote this, recorded it actually, on my phone on January 1st, technically the 2nd because it was past midnight.  I'm not sure where to begin, there seems to be a lot of room for improvement these days, as far as new year's resolutions go.  What is a New Year's resolution? I feel like I need to italicize or bold or quote the phrase "New Year's resolutions". There, I did all three! But is it simply to lose weight, to eat better, to read a book a week, to know God? What about your own heart? What can He tell you about your own heart?

We spend so much time being criticized by people, society, ourselves. What is good and what is bad; what is right and what is wrong? Who we should talk to and who we shouldn't talk to; who we should be friends with and who we shouldn't be friends with...it's as though high school never ended sometimes. But who cares what others say...what about our person? Do you even like who you are as a person? There have been  SEVERAL moments, more than I can count, when I didn't like who I was or became someone I didn't even recognize.  Not because I was depressed or had a poor self image during these times, but because I realized I wasn't being the best me I could be and should be.

But really, do you like who you are as a person? Would you make you smile? Would you be there for you? Do you take care of you? Would you put you first? Would you LOVE you?

Here are a few resolutions I plan to adopt and maintain. Surely there will be tweeks along the way, possibly with each new year:

- Less hospital visits
- Less doctor visits in general, if possible
- Living a healthy life style
- More time with family and friends
- Traveling more...maybe taking a trip alone somewhere! (I know about 10 people will shake their head at this one)
- Worrying less (and this one)
- Less car accidents (oh man, and this one and the next one!)
- Less cell phone mishaps...Less cell phone, period.
- Making wiser decisions
- Living in the moment so that it can all soak in
- Not focusing on the future TOO MUCH
- Setting goals and reaching them - never becoming complacent or comfortable with what I"ve "done" or "contributed"
- Making plans and following them through
- HA! Not making plans and being more spontaneous
- Making new friends and keeping old ones
- Building authentic and real relationships with people
- Learn to love everyone as though they are family including, but not limited to, the guy on the street corner, a coworker, even a new friend
- Not being afraid to try new things
- Learning how to say no
- Weeding out the negative and focusing on the positive
- Following God's plan, the will for my life
- Don't try to busy myself with "things" but with meaning
- Become filled with the love of God and allow His light to shine through me to others
- Address issues as they arise; don't hold grudges
- Forgive, fix, move on
- Give someone a second or third chance...or fourth or fifth if I believe in them and our relationship (friendship)
-Help other people be better...don't "change" them; enable and empower them to see the true potential they possess
- Walk the walk and talk the talk - in everything I do, believe, and stand for
- Sing karaoke with my BFF
- Send a card. Heck! Get a Hallmark card subscription!
- Call someone because I have 5 minutes
- Be ok with having been let down and know that at some point I've let others down too - minimize let downs!
- Actually being ok with things not going according to "plan"
- Learning how to deal with things when  they don't go "right"
Be the best person you can be.

You only have one thing to work with and that's you; you aren't going to find what you're looking for in other people.  We are all here for a reason. To do something great. Even if no one notices, God does. So for 2012 and beyond, be the best person you know how to be. Be true to yourself and what you believe in. Love you for you. And COUNT EVERY  BLESSING YOU HAVE!!!

I'm the luckiest little dot in the world!!!

What was your favorite gift this Christmas? A new phone? A new car?! A gift card to your favorite store or a new blue ray?

I wasn’t sure what mine was. I had a really great Christmas – regardless of gifts. I thought my favorite gift was the one that was going to contribute to my NY resolution – Zumba fitness for the Wii (complements of sister and brother in law)!!! After tearing apart my apartment, in search of my Wii, I had yet to set up since moving back to SA in May, I decided to start unpacking the Christmas sacks of gifts.  I pulled out a book my Mom (and Dad) gave me.

When I received the book, I looked at it and thought, “A children’s book, great, thanks???” I showed some half hearted appreciation and set it aside. I hadn’t looked at it, or honestly thought about it since Christmas morning. I pulled it out of a sack, while my Wii ran an update, sat down, puppies fighting to be next to me, and opened the front cover. The book is called, “Wherever you are, my love will find you” and is written by Nancy Tillman.  Apparently her goal in life is to convey to children that “You are loved”.

 Inside was a note I didn’t notice before. It was from my mom. Her perfect cursive handwriting, of which I’ve always envied, gave that away. I read the note, tears formed; I turned the page and began to read…and cry. Each page brought a new set of rather large tears. It’s not a sad book. They weren’t sad tears.  Just made me realize how loved I am. Inside the cover there is a sentence that reads “I wanted you more than you ever will know, so I sent love to follow wherever you go”. My mom is awesome. She has been there for me through everything the past two years. Who gets on a plane to fly to Dallas at the slightest inclination that I was not okay??? She does. Who drives to Dallas and spends their spring break with me in the hospital? My family.

For months – probably since I started this blog – a very special person has been waiting for me to write about my family and how much love there is between us. I never realized how right she was when she would tell me, “You are the luckiest little dot in the whole world to have a family like yours.” So here you go, Ms. D. I never had the exact words until now, I think…I hope. (My nickname from Ms. D and Bean is “dot”)

I am one of the lucky ones. 2010 and 2011 were two of the hardest years I’ve had to endure thus far – because I’ve lived so many, right!?! 2012 will be better. I know that because I know I am blessed beyond belief by the family I have. They love and care about my bratty, stubborn, sass mouthing, up to no good ass more than I could ever hope for.  They put me in my place. They are my reality check. They are my number one fans. They are my biggest supporters. They are the first to call me out. They are the first to push my buttons and let me tell you – they know which ones to push! They are the first ones I call (group text!) when I am sad, have a phone mishap, a car accident even if it is my fault, have a question about anything, or want advice on something but don’t necessarily want to ask for it.  We are outspoken and loud. Love everyone we meet. Want nothing but the best for one another. We are also complete opposites in regard to so many things. But I wouldn’t change any of it for the world.

I can only hope to love my children as much as my parents love me, my sister, brother (in law) and niece.

“And if someday you’re lonely,

Or someday you’re sad,

Or you strike out at baseball,

Or think you’ve been bad…

Just lift up your face, feel the wind in your hair. 

That’s me, my sweet baby, my love is right there.”

There are an exorbitant amount of times I felt lonely and sad in the past two years.  

“In the green of the grass…in the smell of

the sea…in the clouds floating by…

at the top of a tree…in the sound

crickets make at the end of the day…

You are loved.  You are loved.  You are loved,” they all say.”

I have never in my life seen or felt love like my family’s.

My favorite Christmas gift was my new book. In addition to the realization this blog post testifies to – the endless love I am constantly surrounded by and never have to ask or search for. All I can do is thank the Lord for them daily!

Society annoys me sometimes

Preface

 http://lifestyle.msn.com/relationships/my-married-life-blog-post.aspx?post=79079759-b1ff-4552-9336-e14b385c729d

http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2011/12/marriage-rate-falls-to-record-low-in-u-s-pew-says/#.TupRyvV33vM.facebook

OK – at first I was sad. Now, I am just plain pissed off.

This is ridiculous. No, not the prevalence of this topic in the news (we all know how reporters can be, beating a dead horse), but rather the fact it’s in the news at all. It’s disheartening for those of us who are still single or not yet married.  Very disheartening.

Are people so afraid to have truthful, completely bare, authentic relationships that they would rather just live in a fantasy world, playing house and cohabitating like it’s no big deal?  In fear that they might get hurt or actually have to committ to something? What happened to Biblical truth? What happened to the institution that is marriage? The perfect union it once was viewed as has been tarnished and down trodden.  I can’t even say specifically who is to blame. We are. Society. We let this happen. We allowed and encouraged people to take up for what is “right” and what is theirs (sounds like another case of Occupy Wall Street). People, becoming so obsessed about “making it on their own” and doing things for their benefit only, are the number one contributing factor to the decline in marriages today. No one is perfect – if you’re waiting on the perfect person, you’re going to be waiting a long, long time. In my opinion.

It’s not my place to judge you. If you want to live your life and truly feel that living your life means doing everything on your own, that’s your prerogative. It’s just really sad that people are so disconnected these days – from each other, from the world, from families and friends.

On top of all of that – the priority from keeping your marriage in tact above all else has shifted to being all about the children. A very very VERY good friend of mine once told me that whenever I get married that my priority must always remain my husband. She said, and her point is 100% legit, that children will grow up and leave and you will always have the person you started with – your husband or wife. Losing sight of the meaning of marriage, procreating on purpose outside of marriage, living together before marriage or without any regard to marriage – breaks my heart and only leads to the broken hearts of others.

A marriage should be fun. It should be hard work. It’s not meant to be scary or disabling. It’s an emotional struggle. It’s not meant to be a chore. Marriage is so much more than just “living together”.  It should be you and your best friend. The person who loves you for you. Who can make you laugh or push the right button to make you cry. The person who knows your heart, the real you. The person you can do anything with or nothing at all.  Your spouse shouldn’t be the person it is because they make a good living, have a nice fancy job, drive an expensive car, can provide for you in a financial way only, and have good genes to make beautiful babies. Yes, those things are nice and it would be awesome if that’s the way it was but waiting and hoping for something to happen does not mean it’s going to.

God has a plan. He designed marriage for a reason. Marriage is good. It is right. It cannot become obsolete. It should be cherished. We are given all the tools we need to make marriage work.  And if it doesn’t work or hasn’t worked for you, does not mean it’s an all together bad thing.

Still pretty mad. Might write about this again. It just irks me. People can be really selfish sometimes. It’s amazing. I get it if “marriage” isn’t what you want. I know it’s not for everyone. But for the reasons that people are avoiding it, that’s the part I’m upset about. What are people trying to prove or accomplish?

This is awesome

http://www.churchleaders.com/pastors/pastor-articles/155219-sarah-bessey-why-women-s-ministry-needs-jesus.html#.Tt4klKAA8zs.facebook

Read that. Please. It's not long - don't be lazy! Then read what I am going to say :) Please!

I have been part of two adult women bible/book studies. The first one was way over my head. I was 20/21 and the study talked about being married, being a mom, and growing old(er). The group of girls was great; all very nice and inviting. The hardest part was building an authentic relationship with them. It was a relatively large group so that made it a bit more difficult. And two - they were all much older, more mature in their faith, and were either married, engaged or seriously dating someone.

I am really big on authentic, genuine relationships these days. With each year I get older - believe it or not - I get wiser. I cannot put a price tag on the value of a real friendship or relationship. Knowing someone - their heart, their dreams, their struggles, their past, present, and future are all crucial, in my opinion, to showing the love of Christ. Love is greater than all things.

The second small group I was part of met on Saturday mornings. I was invited by a girl I had met at a dog park in Dallas. She lived close and assured me there would only be a few other girls. The book she wanted to study seemed intriguing - so I went. The first meeting we had was awesome. We all shed several tears, walls came down, hearts were exposed - and that is when I realized what a small group should be. I haven't been the best at keeping up with those girls since moving, but they are amazing. It was truly a safe place - no one dressed up, put on make up (it was 8 or 9 on a saturday morning),  or felt the need to impress anyone. It was real. It was authentic.

I challenge you to focus on the people in your life. Evaluate your relationships. Build them up. Show people the love of Christ.

Fear of the Unknown - Dun, Dun, Dun!

I am a scaredy cat.


I'm afraid of everything. It is super annoying. Even things I don't want to be afraid of and try not be afraid of, plague me. I'm afraid of dying. I'm afraid of close family and friends dying. I'm afraid of having my heart broken. I'm afraid of pillows over my face. I'm afraid of getting hurt. I'm afraid of judgment day. I'm afraid of quitting. I'm afraid of flying. I'm afraid I won't get the opportunity to experience certain things in life. I am a wimp. That's all there is to it.


Why do we constantly live in fear? All of us. We are all afraid of one thing or another. I might be a total weirdo because I am afraid of so many things.


Lately I've been thinking about all the reasons why I fear these things and ways to overcome them. I really think that, for me at least, I am afraid of the unknown.  I'm not sure how Heaven will be if I die; I don't know how I would cope with someone close to me passing away; I know what a broken heart feels like and I am so afraid of it happening again because, quite frankly, it sucks - not just in the romantical sense of the phrase...I don't know how I will feel when I can't breath because of the pillow; I don't know how I will feel if I break a bone; I don't know what will happen to me on judgment day; I don't know how my employer will take it if I quit; I'm not sure what will happen if I fall out of the sky in an airplane; I don't know the "what if" of an opportunity if I don't take it or miss out on it for one reason or another. 


We facebook, twitter, and blog stalk people just to be "in the know". We thrive to know what's going to happen next. God didn't put us on this earth to be comfortable. Things will always change. We will always have to face a fear of some sort. We will never know what is going to happen in the next 5 minutes, 5 months, or 5 years.


I found a great website that listed some amazing Bible verses that address fear, specifically, and they gave me a lot of hope and new found peace in the unknown.  Faith is one of a few options to overcome fear. I'm not a "get over it" type of person - so - I find ways AROUND it....like reading Bible verses that give me warm fuzzies and allow me to feel safe, even if just for a moment. I hope you find comfort in the unknown. It's a struggle. Imagine how boring life would be if we knew what was going to happen next. Try taking a leap of FAITH - literally - see what happens....I guarantee you won't fall on your face.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. (Psalm 23:4)

For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you. (Isaiah 41:13)

Moses answered the people, "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today.  The Egyptians you see today you will never see again." (Exodus 14:13)

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. (Deuteronomy 31:6)

For God gave us not a spirit of fearfulness; but of power and love and discipline. (2 Timothy 1:7)

The Lord is my light and my salvation--whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life--of whom shall I be afraid? (Psalm 27:1)

But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God." (Luke 1:30)

But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people." (Luke 2:10)

So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can Man do to me?" (Hebrews 13:6)

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (John 14:27)

Do not be afraid - Me

#3 Online Shopping Inspiration {Series} - Final

Preface (from the 1st post and 2nd post in the series)- Do you ever see things hung up in someone’s home and you wonder if they even know what it says? If it has any meaning to them or not? Maybe you don’t, but I do. As I was shopping online the other day I ran across these little poster, hanging, canvas print decoration things and began to think about what each one said and meant to me, not that I would readily hang them up all over my apartment or anything.  I will post one a day until I run out of things to say about them. I have to limit it to one [or two!]  a day so I don’t bore you with my chatter:

Do you catch yourself being cynical? Defensive? Contemptuous? How about slightly jaded from past experiences? Do you hold grudges? Is forgiveness hard? When people tell you to “let it go” do you want to punch them? Maybe not that dramatic, I know, but we all feel this way sometimes. If you don’t, just close your browser window and walk away, go see a counselor, because you’re in denial. (kidding)

“Change your thoughts and you’ll change the world”

YOUR thoughts, not someone else’s. You WILL change the world. I am guilty of assuming the person on the street corner is an alcoholic or druggie. I read a friend’s blog that talked about how her and her husband befriended a homeless couple (read about it here) and it really convicted me. Not all things are as they appear. Not all governmental figures are bad. Not all evangelists are in it for the money. Not all house wives are spoiled rotten. Not all clearance items at the mall are great deals. Changing the way we think, changes the way we interact with others, encourages and inspires positivity, and thus, can possibly change the world at a miniscule level or gargantuan level. The next poster, wall hanging, décor item is an excellent embellishment and compliment to this one; in other words, it completes my thought.

  

The other morning I performed a random act of kindness.

I was really early to work. Hungry, I decided to make a drive-thru run (VERY out of the ordinary for me) but I couldn’t help but think how good an egg and cheese taco sounded! I think I felt bad going through the drive through, first of all, and then realized I should probably bring some for my office. I would like to consider myself the taco fairy.

Yes, it was only tacos – but do you know how many “thank you’s” I received? Sometimes a taco goes a long way. I’m not a saint, just a taco fairy!

I remember in elementary school they were always talking about random acts of kindness. I couldn’t agree more, with the importance and effect said acts can have on a person, a family, a life, a city, a country, our world. Just like big gifts come in small packages, small acts can have a far-reaching, profound, and contagious effect on our lives. Movies like Babel and Crash always make me realize how we are all connected in some way. Surely you’ve received an act of kindness within the past week, pay it forward today. Set a goal – perform one act a week, then bump it up to twice a week, then maybe small acts every day.

See how you feel. Keep the cycle going. Change the world.

#1 Online Shopping Inspiration {Series}

Preface - Do you ever see things hung up in someone’s home and you wonder if they even know what it says? If it has any meaning to them or not? Maybe you don’t, but I do. As I was shopping online the other day I ran across these little poster, hanging, canvas print decoration things and began to think about what each one said and meant to me, not that I would readily hang them up all over my apartment or anything.  I will post one or two a day until I run out of things to say about them!

 

Oh Steve Jobs – how you have inspired so many. I don’t know of his religious preference but in my book, the Good Book, we are told that nothing we stockpile up here on earth is ever going anywhere after this life. Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish. I wouldn’t say endorsing foolishness is the wisest advice, but have fun with life. Don’t torment yourself with stress and anxiety (yes, I need to take my own advice). Do something fun and for yourself at least once a day. Do something you ENJOY with people you LOVE once a week. Never pass a moment you have of free time to call someone you miss or have been meaning to catch up with. Please, dear friends, don’t EVER take a job for the security or money – even if it means you’re a bit hungrier. It’s a good weight loss tactic!

Live the life you were meant to live. Find joy in everything – even the way your dog might lick you all over after a sweaty workout. It’s the little things in life that count. Try not to take things for granted. If there is a shoulda, coulda, woulda statement coming out of your mouth daily, make it happen, get over it, or find a way around it. My PALS teacher in high school always said “don’t b***h about things, do something about them”. No, not the most appropriate sentiment to leave 16, 17 and 18 year olds with but, the woman got things done! If you’re out of place, pray about it. Ask and you shall receive. God answers prayers on His time so show patience. We are all on a journey. At the end of our journey no one is going to ask how your stock portfolio looks, what you retired with, how many cars you have, what licenses and certifications you retained – people will comment on your heart, your soul, your being, your faith in God, your friendship, your love. Just keep on keepin’ on.


"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sale away from safe harbor, catch the trade winds in your sails, explore, dream, discover" - Mark Twain

The Steve Jobs' quote inspired my thoughts further on this piece. This poster caught my attention initially because of the reference to a flower. I’m a girl. I’m girly. I like flowers. Not too difficult. However, after I realized what it said, did I become intrigued. It’s a simple thought. Not too overly complex, complicated, or convoluted. Straight and simple and to the point. What is a miracle? Most wouldn’t consider a single flower a miracle but just THINK about it. How awesome is the process of a plant - a budding flower morphing into a beautiful and picturesque object that is on the earth for our enjoyment? How intricate our world has become even though it is full of tiny miracles. Our whole life would change if we understood, enjoyed, comprehended, loved, confided in the miracles around us. How? Personally, maybe I would be less over dramatic, more go with the flow. Maybe I wouldn’t stress quite as much or worry about things I cannot change or control. Maybe I would laugh more, stay up later, take things for granted less.  How would your life be changed if you could see and know the miracle of a single flower clearly?

Jack-o-Lanterns for dinner!

PS - check this out too!

Is it too late to post this???? Halloween was JUST yesterday! I don’t think it’s too late. Jack-o’s should be for all of Fall. They are fall colors, aren’t they? I am posting it. So here you go! (PS - sounds like a lot of work but it's not!!!!)

I had some WONDERFUL company last night, good friend from middle school (even though we knew of each other before but didn’t like each other!), high school, college, and beyond…oh and she is now my neighbor…came over for a glass of wine and girl talk.

We talked about our weekend, our joys, and our struggles; laughed and related to one another all while we drank some “Steak and Potatoes”. It’s this really awesome wine I tried at the Alon Market HEB (had to specify because this HEB is the best HEB in all of SA). The sample guy didn’t even card me! So I felt obligated. Anyways, it’s the closest thing I will ever get to eating steak and potatoes so there you go.

While we talked I mixed together the following in a large bowl:

1lb of ground turkey, raw  – 93/7 (had to use 85/15 because there wasn’t any 93/7 at the time)

1 long squeeze of Dijon mustard (should have been about ¼ cup)

1 heaping dollop of Enchilada Sauce (mild, medium, whatever – it should be about ½ cup or so)

1 small onion, chopped (I don’t care if you use white, yellow, green, purple, or brown – I used yellow)

1 small tomato or half a large tomato, chopped – or more, play with it!

2-4 cloves fresh pressed garlic – I used 4, we love garlic

4 slices of whole wheat bread, cubed – this makes the mixture thick – weird I know but good!

After I mixed everything thoroughly, CW (neighbor friend) and I got to work on our bell peppers. You will need about 4-8 bell peppers (whatever color, flavor you like). I found the kind with relatively flat bottoms so they would stand up. I had 4 but there was about half the meat mix left over – will probably cook it up tonight for tacos or something or make turkey burgers out of it.

Anyways – take a tiny paring knife and carve out your Jack-o. Be careful not to get too intricate or the poor pepper will fall apart. After you carve out a face, cut off the top of the pepper. All the seeds, or most, will stick to the top. Cut them all off and carefully scrap out and rinse your Jack-o-Lantern. See our cuties below:

Then you will stuff them lightly, don’t pack the meat mixture down (I don't know why, just don’t do it). We filled ours up and put their little caps, seed-free, back on top, arranged them on my new pampered chef mini bar pan (so cute), and baked them at 350 for 1 hour.

With about ten minutes left we took off the lids and put some Mexican blend cheese on top and let them finish baking.

CW's Pumpkin - looks like he is drooling!

His face got a little distored - they shrivle up and look 'scary' - so fun!

As a side I steamed some asparagus. Most people don’t like it but that’s because it’s not cooked right. Put your asparagus, with 1 inch of the ends cut off, in a large sauce pan with water and a pinch of salt. The water should cover them. As the water heats up and begins to boil, your asparagus (that’s like ‘deer’ – no plural alternative) will start to turn bright green. You know they are done when a fork slides through them easily but they aren’t soggy (about 5-10 minutes). Serve immediately with another pinch of salt for flavor.

And VIOLA – Jack-o’s in the pumpkin (bell pepper) patch!

Fellow Young People

Disclaimer: I am not a major theologian. I am not claiming to be. I don't even WANT to be. I just had a thought and went with it. This was not intended to offend anyone. If you disagree with me, fine. I am truly going off feeling and feeling alone. With that being said........

It has come to my attention that there are very few Christian Marriage Retreats aimed at young people. RANDOM - I know. Not even just marriage retreats. Heck, forget the "being married" part all together. There are very few Christian Retreats aimed at the development of young people for marriage, if that is a person's calling.

My point - everyone is all hyped up about the "death of marriage" and that over 50% of Christian marriages end in divorce. Ok - Christian, Catholic, Faith-based, whatever. The fact is - marriage is a dying art, not sure if that is an appropriate comparison but ANYWAYS....why in Bob's name, are there marriage retreats, after rebuilding marriage bible studies, after 'Weekend to Remember' events, after “Focus on the Family” affairs, after another - all aimed at OLDER (not OLD, older) people? Those who have been married for years and years. Why? I mean, I get it. I do. Empty nest syndrome. Those who are getting the '7-year itch' (which has turned into the '2 year itch' it seems).

And is the Church really stooping to the level of marketing their organization and religious affiliation by claiming "life-long marriages only last when the couple goes to church" - ? Are they really doing that? Yes. People should go to Church if they want. However, doesn't church mean where there is a group of people gathering in God's name? This is a hot topic- I'm sure. Again - not a serious Bible thumper but isn't there a verse that talks about this? I will find it later. I only say this because the “church” building cannot save marriages – people and God and Biblical truth save marriages, relationships, families, homes, friendships...etc.

I love this statement from Ken Ham, "...those who read the Bible seriously and without compromise put their faith as a much higher priority in their lives. As a result, they lead very different lives, to include some of the lowest divorce rates in the country, well below the atheists, agnostics, and general public. Interestingly, those who profess faith in Jesus Christ but not in what the Bible teaches appear little different than the rest of the world"

It's not about going to church, saying you’re a Christian and being 'good'. It's about the real, nitty gritty of the Faith, what the Bible says and commands of us, Christians, that distinguishes a successful marriage from an unsuccessful marriage. If you and your partner have the same priority, which is God, and truly follow the Bible and all it has in store for you, your marriage should be successful. The Bible is our handbook.

This brings me back to my original point - young people! Why are there SO MANY dagum retreats and workshops and bible studies aimed at those who are already married and NOT SO MANY dagum retreats and workshops and bible studies aimed at those who are on their way to be married or would like to be some day????

Beth Moore does a good job in her Esther study - well to me at least - of showing us how Women should be, according to the Bible. But, in my opinion, I feel like the dudes of the world need to know their role as well as the Woman's role in a relationship, life, whatever. Both sides should understand and attempt to familiarize themselves with the inner and outer workings of the opposite sex's brain, heart, and soul! So, here is my proposition. We need to find or make or orchestrate one of these events. We need elders, wise, older people, those with testimony and expertise in regard to gender roles, and a really good, YOUNG advertising and marketing guru.

We need to break the cycle. Yes, repairing broken marriages is awesome and I am all for it. I can’t imagine how heartbreaking it is to watch your parents’ divorce. But think about it, what do young married couples do when disaster strikes? They turn to what they know best – whether that is television or other couples they know who might have good marriages or might not. We need to fix what’s been broken….but we need to go to the source, the beginning, the roots and foundational layer of a relationship. For some people, that might be when they are still dating, when they are single, or when they are one week from saying “I do”.  Young people need to be equipped with what “real faith” means and what their role is according to the Bible, (obviously adapted to present day society because I don’t know about you, but I can’t be as submissive as I am probably supposed to be), all while understanding their partner’s (opposite sex’s) role. It’s about accountability, and not because I’m an accountant. I think many would be surprised by the oodles of young people, soon to be college graduates, and real-world newbies who are dying to know their role and who, like me, are fixated on gender roles but who need to know Biblical truth.

Side note - here is the verse I was looking for earlier: Matthew 18:20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

Ok – I’m done. Now, let’s do something…please???