In the very frigid temps of the Virginia morning, I had a very joyful experience. Before I explain it, you must know something about me. I'm pretty cheap when it comes to all things clothing related. I HATE to spend money on things that don't last. One article of clothing that I hate to buy is socks. My habit is to buy a bag of six pairs of socks maybe once every other year. I tend to wear a set of socks until they are so thin you can see through them and they have multiple holes. My hubby thinks that it's disgusting to wear socks with holes, and I'm the queen of wearing them.
Two weeks ago, I did it. I broke down and bought a new bag of socks. As hard as it was for me to open my wallet and give in, the reward of treating my feet better has been well worth it. Never have I appreciated this reward as much as I did today. As I got dressed to take Sebastian to the groomer, I began to put on a new pair of socks. While I pulled the first one on, a since of warmth came over me. Yes, it sounds so cheesy and lame, but I'm so serious. It's no secret that I have been colder than usual in this house. I never can seem to get warm. But all of that changed when I slipped those new socks on. Thick, cushioned, warm. I didn't realize that crew socks are actually supposed to have some cushion on the sole. My feet are in gym sock heaven.
Lesson learned! New socks are well worth the price of a value meal at my favorite fast food joint. And they are so much better for you...
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Friends
A very dear friend sent this to me recently. Today, I found it to be very helpful. I am not sure where it's from and I apologize for borrowing it...
People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. When you know which one it is, you will know what to do for that person.
When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend and they are. They are there for the reason you need them to be. Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end. Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away! Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand. What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on.
Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow or learn. They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy. Believe it, it is real. But only for a season.
LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons, things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life. It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.
Thank you for being a part of my life, whether you were a reason, a season or a lifetime.
People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. When you know which one it is, you will know what to do for that person.
When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend and they are. They are there for the reason you need them to be. Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end. Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away! Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand. What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on.
Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow or learn. They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy. Believe it, it is real. But only for a season.
LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons, things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life. It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.
Thank you for being a part of my life, whether you were a reason, a season or a lifetime.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
So, where are you from?
If ever there was a more difficult question to answer... Why is it that people have to ask that all of the time? Is one's identity solely dependent upon where she lives or was born? Don't misunderstand, I am glad when people show an interest, but when you have an answer like mine, the task can be daunting.
My response always begins with the ever-so-wonderful "Well...". For one thing, I'm never sure what the question means exactly. Does the questioner want to know where I currently live, where I was born, where I went to high school, where my family is based, where I've spent a majority of my time, or (insert anything else you might think the question includes)? And for another thing, my answers to all of those questions are completely different and often confusing. I know God used each of those places in my life and He guided me to each one. However, it does make for a lengthy explanation that often times might bore the listener.
So, why I am bringing this up? You would ask that... Here's the deal - right now I'm "in transit". Fortunately for me, I've gotten pretty good at moving around. Starting with a move resulting from my parents' divorce and continuing through college and many job moves, I must say that God has been preparing me for the new adventure known as Army life. That being said, lately I've begun to feel extremely restless. I am tired - physically, mentally, and emotionally tired.
I hope that my mom, brother, and sister-in-law each know how much I love and appreciate them for letting me live with them over the past seven months. But, I know they understand that it's time for me to be with Patrick again, in our own home, on our own schedule, with our own thermostat, with our own menus, etc. Nothing in the world could ever compare to the kindness my family has shown us. I'm just tired of the in-between. I'm homesick for a home I've never been to. Crazy? Probably. I'm ready to be there, wherever there is. Isn't it interesting that the word home is an acronym reminding me to get a Hold of My Emotions? Not sure that's just a coincidence.
The countdown is rolling and soon I will be too.
My response always begins with the ever-so-wonderful "Well...". For one thing, I'm never sure what the question means exactly. Does the questioner want to know where I currently live, where I was born, where I went to high school, where my family is based, where I've spent a majority of my time, or (insert anything else you might think the question includes)? And for another thing, my answers to all of those questions are completely different and often confusing. I know God used each of those places in my life and He guided me to each one. However, it does make for a lengthy explanation that often times might bore the listener.
So, why I am bringing this up? You would ask that... Here's the deal - right now I'm "in transit". Fortunately for me, I've gotten pretty good at moving around. Starting with a move resulting from my parents' divorce and continuing through college and many job moves, I must say that God has been preparing me for the new adventure known as Army life. That being said, lately I've begun to feel extremely restless. I am tired - physically, mentally, and emotionally tired.
I hope that my mom, brother, and sister-in-law each know how much I love and appreciate them for letting me live with them over the past seven months. But, I know they understand that it's time for me to be with Patrick again, in our own home, on our own schedule, with our own thermostat, with our own menus, etc. Nothing in the world could ever compare to the kindness my family has shown us. I'm just tired of the in-between. I'm homesick for a home I've never been to. Crazy? Probably. I'm ready to be there, wherever there is. Isn't it interesting that the word home is an acronym reminding me to get a Hold of My Emotions? Not sure that's just a coincidence.
The countdown is rolling and soon I will be too.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
To be honest...
I'd really like to put some thoughts together on my blog, but quite honestly, I'm not very creative right now. The new year has started and it seems I don't have much to say. Maybe in a few days I'll feel more like myself. So for now, Happy New Year and keep in touch!
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Crying? There's no crying at a Christmas Concert!
Call me crazy and overly emotional, but I actually became teary-eyed in a Christmas concert last week. Patrick and I attended the School of Music Faculty and Staff Christmas Concert. The music was wonderful, and it was so nice to hear professional musicians again.
As I sat in the audience for this fine presentation, I began to cry. What? Well, you see... I love Christmas music. I love playing it, singing it, whistling it, and directing it! In fact, I am known for whistling Christmas music as I walk down the halls of the schools where I've taught.
So why the tears? Get this... For the first time in at least 22 years, I am not singing in, playing trombone in, or conducting a Christmas concert or special. That may not mean a lot to you, kind reader... but to a musician, it's pretty devastating. It is always a true joy for me to participate in Christmas concerts of all shapes and sizes. Whether a church presentation, tree-lighting ceremony, or school band concert, I really LOVE to perform and conduct. Sadly, due to the fact that I currently don't have a band job, I'm not attending one church full-time, and I am not a part of any local ensembles, I have no opportunity to play, sing, or direct. Sound pathetic? Maybe so, but it was a weird feeling to be sitting in that audience and to realize that I was missing out for the first time in a very long while.
I hope that this Christmas season is the only one in which I don't have an opportunity to participate musically. It really has been hard to get into the spirit of the season. Music is medicine for my soul, and I wouldn't be who I am without it!
As I sat in the audience for this fine presentation, I began to cry. What? Well, you see... I love Christmas music. I love playing it, singing it, whistling it, and directing it! In fact, I am known for whistling Christmas music as I walk down the halls of the schools where I've taught.
So why the tears? Get this... For the first time in at least 22 years, I am not singing in, playing trombone in, or conducting a Christmas concert or special. That may not mean a lot to you, kind reader... but to a musician, it's pretty devastating. It is always a true joy for me to participate in Christmas concerts of all shapes and sizes. Whether a church presentation, tree-lighting ceremony, or school band concert, I really LOVE to perform and conduct. Sadly, due to the fact that I currently don't have a band job, I'm not attending one church full-time, and I am not a part of any local ensembles, I have no opportunity to play, sing, or direct. Sound pathetic? Maybe so, but it was a weird feeling to be sitting in that audience and to realize that I was missing out for the first time in a very long while.
I hope that this Christmas season is the only one in which I don't have an opportunity to participate musically. It really has been hard to get into the spirit of the season. Music is medicine for my soul, and I wouldn't be who I am without it!
Monday, November 24, 2008
Just What the Father Ordered...
A few weeks have passed since I've posted anything. It's not that I haven't wanted to post, it's just that my brain could not settle on a topic. If you know me, that probably doesn't surprise you.
These past several months have been some of the most interesting of my life. I'd be lying if I claimed that this has all been easy. I realize that, compared to the struggles of others, the past months should have seemed like a breeze. Really, what do I have to complain about? Well, consider me a wimp. Don't misunderstand. I knew that this transition would be a test of character. I wasn't blind to the fact that it would be an emotional journey. There are so many things that have changed and I'm certain it's just the beginning. Part of me thought I'd be stronger. It was pride, I know. It's always been hard for me to admit when something is scary or overwhelming (probably the tom-boy in me).
As things have begun to settle down a bit, I should be pretty content. After all, I'm getting to spend more time with my wonderful husband. Our marriage is growing stronger each week. I have a job I like and feel like I'm contributing. That being said, I still find myself attending my own pity party this week. Satan is trying hard to steal my joy. I know that God is defending me against the liar's attacks. But, none-the-less, I'm having trouble letting some things go.
The amazing thing is that God has a wonderful way of pointing me back in the right direction. He draws me to himself in such undemanding ways. During some reading time this week, He has shown me several things that have knocked me right in the heart. I have a major problem (as my family will tell you) with taking everything too seriously. I try to deny it, but it's true. While reading "My Utmost for His Highest" this week, several things have appeared to be written directly to me.
As if that weren't hard-hitting enough, the next day included this convicting passage.
Needless to say, I've had a very healthy, but painful, dose of God's correction in the past two days. What started out to be a pity-party post taking a couple of days to write has turned into a major lesson in spiritual growth for me. What would I do if God ever gave up on me? He is more merciful than I could ever deserve and more loving than I could ever repay. Thank you, Father!
These past several months have been some of the most interesting of my life. I'd be lying if I claimed that this has all been easy. I realize that, compared to the struggles of others, the past months should have seemed like a breeze. Really, what do I have to complain about? Well, consider me a wimp. Don't misunderstand. I knew that this transition would be a test of character. I wasn't blind to the fact that it would be an emotional journey. There are so many things that have changed and I'm certain it's just the beginning. Part of me thought I'd be stronger. It was pride, I know. It's always been hard for me to admit when something is scary or overwhelming (probably the tom-boy in me).
As things have begun to settle down a bit, I should be pretty content. After all, I'm getting to spend more time with my wonderful husband. Our marriage is growing stronger each week. I have a job I like and feel like I'm contributing. That being said, I still find myself attending my own pity party this week. Satan is trying hard to steal my joy. I know that God is defending me against the liar's attacks. But, none-the-less, I'm having trouble letting some things go.
The amazing thing is that God has a wonderful way of pointing me back in the right direction. He draws me to himself in such undemanding ways. During some reading time this week, He has shown me several things that have knocked me right in the heart. I have a major problem (as my family will tell you) with taking everything too seriously. I try to deny it, but it's true. While reading "My Utmost for His Highest" this week, several things have appeared to be written directly to me.
Never show the depth of your life to anyone but God. We are so nauseatingly serious, so desperately interested in our own character and reputation, we refuse to behave like Christians in the shallow concerns of life. Make a determination to take no one seriously except God. You may find that the first person you must be the most critical with, as being the greatest fraud you have ever known, is yourself. My Utmost-Nov. 22
As if that weren't hard-hitting enough, the next day included this convicting passage.
Another thing that distracts us is our passion for vindication. St. Augustine prayed, "O Lord, deliver me from this lust of always vindicating myself." Such a need for constant vindication destroys our soul's faith in God. Don't say, "I must explain myself," or, "I must get people to understand." Our Lord never explained anything-He left the misunderstandings or misconceptions of others to correct themselves. My Utmost-Nov. 23
Needless to say, I've had a very healthy, but painful, dose of God's correction in the past two days. What started out to be a pity-party post taking a couple of days to write has turned into a major lesson in spiritual growth for me. What would I do if God ever gave up on me? He is more merciful than I could ever deserve and more loving than I could ever repay. Thank you, Father!
Thursday, November 6, 2008
A Beautiful Season!
As a deer hunter and lover of the outdoors, I have always had a special place in my heart for Autumn. It always brings cooler weather, the peak of football season, and a total change in attitude. Thanksgiving and Christmas mean time with family and remembering the birth of Jesus Christ. During the late fall, I usually think of curling up on the couch with a good blanket and some hot chocolate. Of course, there's also nothing like fresh baked cookies in that scenario, too!
Living in Virginia, there's one other part of the season that is wonderful. Unlike Texas where there are mainly pine and mesquite trees, Virginia's countryside is filled with the most beautiful changing leaves. Even the most mundane trips in the car are turned into great views of the trees.
There are many more shots like these, but it would take all day to post them.
On another note, I have found a part-time job. I start tomorrow. Thanks to Sarah's father, I was hired by an insurance agent to be the office receptionist. It's just a few hours every day, but I'm ready to have a reason to get out of the house. This position is not in my field, but it is just temporary while I live here. After all, I need gas money for visiting Patrick.
Living in Virginia, there's one other part of the season that is wonderful. Unlike Texas where there are mainly pine and mesquite trees, Virginia's countryside is filled with the most beautiful changing leaves. Even the most mundane trips in the car are turned into great views of the trees.
There are many more shots like these, but it would take all day to post them.
On another note, I have found a part-time job. I start tomorrow. Thanks to Sarah's father, I was hired by an insurance agent to be the office receptionist. It's just a few hours every day, but I'm ready to have a reason to get out of the house. This position is not in my field, but it is just temporary while I live here. After all, I need gas money for visiting Patrick.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Monday, October 27, 2008
Not Texas, but...
Okay, Virginia is definitely not Texas, but it's very beautiful! The leaves are turning and they look so wonderful. There are also historical markers everywhere. I hope to take the time to visit most of them. Within just miles of the house, there are Civil War battlegrounds and landmarks. It's a history lovers dream. If I can just get over the Virginians who don't know how to drive. They don't seem to know that you can use cruise-control, blinkers, or that the left lane is for faster drivers.
The weekend was great! Patrick and I actually spent two and a half days together for the first time in four months. We attended church together for the first time since June. We visited FBC, Norfolk. It was such a blessing. Sometimes I feel like we are just getting to know each other again, sort of like dating. As a friend reminded me, we started with very brief phone calls once a week and lots of letters. Then, our first face-to-face date came at graduation. Now, we are talking everyday on the phone and seeing each other on the weekends. I am looking forward to next March when we can actually live together and see each other every day.
Saturday was dreary, wet, and cold, but Sunday was beautiful. We took a walk on the beach front that is a part of the base. It was a lot of fun. It will probably be a lot colder in the coming weeks and months so that may not be an option. So we took advantage of the gorgeous weather.
The weekend was great! Patrick and I actually spent two and a half days together for the first time in four months. We attended church together for the first time since June. We visited FBC, Norfolk. It was such a blessing. Sometimes I feel like we are just getting to know each other again, sort of like dating. As a friend reminded me, we started with very brief phone calls once a week and lots of letters. Then, our first face-to-face date came at graduation. Now, we are talking everyday on the phone and seeing each other on the weekends. I am looking forward to next March when we can actually live together and see each other every day.
Saturday was dreary, wet, and cold, but Sunday was beautiful. We took a walk on the beach front that is a part of the base. It was a lot of fun. It will probably be a lot colder in the coming weeks and months so that may not be an option. So we took advantage of the gorgeous weather.
Monday, October 20, 2008
We're not in Texas anymore, Se-Se!
After a two-day drive in our loaded-down Tucson, Sebastian and I are now "residents" of the Commonwealth of Virginia. It's not a permanent move, but a big one just the same. With some major help from Melody, who put up with Sebastian in her lap for most of a 20 hour drive, we got here relatively unscathed. Saturday, we got to spend the day with Patrick. Thanks to Mason and Sarah giving us room and board, Sebastian and I will be able to spend time with Patrick on the weekends while he is stationed at Little Creek for the next five months.
This is definitely not Texas. From drivers who really can't drive, to the fact that it's actually Fall here, I have a lot to get used to. I will try to blog more later about this new chapter in the journey! Until then, thank you for praying for us!
This is definitely not Texas. From drivers who really can't drive, to the fact that it's actually Fall here, I have a lot to get used to. I will try to blog more later about this new chapter in the journey! Until then, thank you for praying for us!
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
You Know The Drill...
Open mouth, insert foot! Yep, that's pretty much been my default motto this summer. It is beginning to seem like I've been living on a diet of feet. Yep, it sounds gross, but I don't think I'm the only one who knows the taste.
Apparently, a steady diet of feet is not low-in-fat. I haven't seemed to lose any weight on it, in fact, I've gained. What I did manage to lose is my witness, a relative's respect, and a dear friendship. I know that there's not much I can do to erase the not-so-tasty meal I've been dishing out. However, there is a God who has forgiven my selfish yielding to my sin nature. I praise Him for sending His Spirit to guide me through the painful heartache of missed opportunity and selfish words.
I know that I'll always be in danger of resorting to the "insert foot" diet. It is absolutely mandatory that I pray for words before "opening my mouth." God, guide my words so that I only bring praise to you! Give me words that bless and not curse.
Apparently, a steady diet of feet is not low-in-fat. I haven't seemed to lose any weight on it, in fact, I've gained. What I did manage to lose is my witness, a relative's respect, and a dear friendship. I know that there's not much I can do to erase the not-so-tasty meal I've been dishing out. However, there is a God who has forgiven my selfish yielding to my sin nature. I praise Him for sending His Spirit to guide me through the painful heartache of missed opportunity and selfish words.
I know that I'll always be in danger of resorting to the "insert foot" diet. It is absolutely mandatory that I pray for words before "opening my mouth." God, guide my words so that I only bring praise to you! Give me words that bless and not curse.
Monday, October 6, 2008
A much needed family reunion!
This weekend, I took a much needed trip to see my church family in Corsicana. It was so wonderful. It could not have come at a better time for me. It was like I never left. My family at MBC was so welcoming. Talk about making someone feel loved! They sure did that!
Even though I know that God has started us on a new journey, MBC will always be home for us. They will never know how much we love them and how much they've encouraged and inspired us. More and more, I know that they model the kind of church God desires. Whoever said "bigger is better" was gravely mistaken. I will always be thankful for the time we had in that church. And I will always have a huge place in my heart for them!
Thank you MBC for a wonderful time of worship and for your never failing love for us!
Even though I know that God has started us on a new journey, MBC will always be home for us. They will never know how much we love them and how much they've encouraged and inspired us. More and more, I know that they model the kind of church God desires. Whoever said "bigger is better" was gravely mistaken. I will always be thankful for the time we had in that church. And I will always have a huge place in my heart for them!
Thank you MBC for a wonderful time of worship and for your never failing love for us!
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Midnight Madness
Ever had one of those nights when you're up really late for no reason at all? I can't seem to force myself to get off of the computer and just go to bed. I've been wanting to blog, but the well has run dry...
My husband says he's bored with blogs lately because no one is writing... I guess I am part of the problem. I hate to say it, but tonight, I'm blogging just for the sake of blogging. Pathetic really...
I wish I could come up with a really profound post that packs a punch. Sorry, dear reader, you're out of luck with this one. I'm working on one that may come together in a few days, but I'm just not sure how to say what I'd like without stepping on any toes or digesting my own foot!
My husband says he's bored with blogs lately because no one is writing... I guess I am part of the problem. I hate to say it, but tonight, I'm blogging just for the sake of blogging. Pathetic really...
I wish I could come up with a really profound post that packs a punch. Sorry, dear reader, you're out of luck with this one. I'm working on one that may come together in a few days, but I'm just not sure how to say what I'd like without stepping on any toes or digesting my own foot!
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
My American Soldier
It's official! Patrick has graduated from Basic Combat Training! To hear it from him, read his blog about the subject. He is officially an American Soldier. Our trip last week could not have been better. We made it safely to South Carolina on Wednesday. Upon arriving, we found out that, due to the threat of Hurricane Hanna, Family Day had been canceled and Graduation had moved up to Thursday. After hearing from Patrick that night, we had our plans all worked out.
Thursday morning, we got up bright and early and made it the the graduation ceremony location. We were really early, so we waited about two hours. I tried to find Patrick across the huge parade field with my binoculars. After some time, the soldiers began lining up in their companies. I was able to spot him briefly. The ceremony was relatively short. As soon as it was over, we got to see Patrick.
After a trip to see his barracks and grab all of his stuff, Patrick was signed-out to us for the remainder of the weekend. We got to spend all day Thursday together as a family. Then, as a special gift, our family treated the two of us to a hotel stay for the night. It was very nice to get to spend some time talking and catching up.
Friday, we all spent the day together visiting some places on post and hanging out at the cabin. Then, Saturday morning, my mom, sister, and brother-in-law left for the return trip to Texas, and my brother, sister-in-law, Patrick and I all set out for Norfolk, VA. We arrived at Little Creek Naval Base with time to spare and enjoyed a great dinner together before dropping Patrick at his next training school. He will have more freedom at the School of Music than he had at Basic, but it will be a lot of work. I still miss him greatly, but I know I can hear from him on the phone more often and he can also e-mail. And I'm looking forward to seeing him on the weekends.
Thursday morning, we got up bright and early and made it the the graduation ceremony location. We were really early, so we waited about two hours. I tried to find Patrick across the huge parade field with my binoculars. After some time, the soldiers began lining up in their companies. I was able to spot him briefly. The ceremony was relatively short. As soon as it was over, we got to see Patrick.
After a trip to see his barracks and grab all of his stuff, Patrick was signed-out to us for the remainder of the weekend. We got to spend all day Thursday together as a family. Then, as a special gift, our family treated the two of us to a hotel stay for the night. It was very nice to get to spend some time talking and catching up.
Friday, we all spent the day together visiting some places on post and hanging out at the cabin. Then, Saturday morning, my mom, sister, and brother-in-law left for the return trip to Texas, and my brother, sister-in-law, Patrick and I all set out for Norfolk, VA. We arrived at Little Creek Naval Base with time to spare and enjoyed a great dinner together before dropping Patrick at his next training school. He will have more freedom at the School of Music than he had at Basic, but it will be a lot of work. I still miss him greatly, but I know I can hear from him on the phone more often and he can also e-mail. And I'm looking forward to seeing him on the weekends.
Monday, September 1, 2008
Even Gustav and Hanna Can't Stop Me!!!!
Well, at least I pray they don't! If you've been keeping up with the blog, you know that I am leaving tomorrow night to drive to South Carolina for Patrick's Family Day and Graduation!!! That's T-minus 24 hours and counting...
In case you can't tell, I am slightly excited about seeing my husband of almost twelve years. We haven't seen each other since June 24th. My mom, sister, brother-in-law, and I will be pulling an all-night drive. Yes, I am a bit concerned about all of the rain and winds from the remnants of Gustav. Please pray for our safety and sanity. Yes, SANITY! Oh, don't act so perfect... You know, if you were riding in a car for 16 hours with that many personalities, you'd be asking for prayer too! Our plan is to get to Ft. Jackson by Wednesday evening, where my brother and his wife will join us. Then, bright and early Thursday, we will get to be with Patrick. Unfortunately, it's looking like Hurricane Hanna is headed for SC and just in time. Yikes. I hope she doesn't spoil the fun.
Let's just say... I don't think I've been this excited about anything in a long time.
In case you can't tell, I am slightly excited about seeing my husband of almost twelve years. We haven't seen each other since June 24th. My mom, sister, brother-in-law, and I will be pulling an all-night drive. Yes, I am a bit concerned about all of the rain and winds from the remnants of Gustav. Please pray for our safety and sanity. Yes, SANITY! Oh, don't act so perfect... You know, if you were riding in a car for 16 hours with that many personalities, you'd be asking for prayer too! Our plan is to get to Ft. Jackson by Wednesday evening, where my brother and his wife will join us. Then, bright and early Thursday, we will get to be with Patrick. Unfortunately, it's looking like Hurricane Hanna is headed for SC and just in time. Yikes. I hope she doesn't spoil the fun.
Let's just say... I don't think I've been this excited about anything in a long time.
Monday, August 25, 2008
This Just In...
Patrick's final letter from Basic arrived today! He's out in the field, so he won't be sending anything else out. But, his last letter was great because it included this:
Of course, he complained about it because it was taken during the first week of basic (two months ago). He says that he looks much better now. Plus, he said they photo-shopped the hat into the pic. He didn't wear it when the photo was taken. I don't really care. He looks great to me. But, I'd much rather see him in person! Ten more days!!!
Of course, he complained about it because it was taken during the first week of basic (two months ago). He says that he looks much better now. Plus, he said they photo-shopped the hat into the pic. He didn't wear it when the photo was taken. I don't really care. He looks great to me. But, I'd much rather see him in person! Ten more days!!!
Thursday, August 21, 2008
A Moment of True Worship
Last night, what started out to be a normal choir and orchestra rehearsal turned into one of the most wonderful times of worship I've ever experienced. The church I currently attend just hired a new Minister of Music. Last night, the pastor introduced him to the members of the choir and orchestra. The new minister shared with us his heart for God's people and the vision he has for the ministry he is now leading. He was so genuine and passionate about what he feels God desires for the music and worship ministry to be about. Then, it happened. He introduced all of us, choir and orchestra, to an older song that will become an integral part of what we do. He reminded us all that we each have something or someone seated on the throne of our lives. Whatever it is, it should be replaced with our amazing Father, God. So we sang these words with just a piano accompanying us.
"I See The Lord" by Nancy Honeytree
I see the Lord
High and lifted up
Seated on the throne
Of my life.
I see the Lord
High and lifted up
Seated on the throne
Of my life.
And He is Holy
He is Holy
He is Holy
Seated on the throne
Of my life.
The sound of all of those voices praising God was definitely a powerful one.
I know in my life I've placed other people and things on my throne. I've even sat on it myself for long periods of time. I need to give God the place He is due every day, in every way, in every possible aspect of my life.
"In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him were seraphs, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. And they were calling to one another: 'Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.'" Isaiah 6:1-3
"I See The Lord" by Nancy Honeytree
I see the Lord
High and lifted up
Seated on the throne
Of my life.
I see the Lord
High and lifted up
Seated on the throne
Of my life.
And He is Holy
He is Holy
He is Holy
Seated on the throne
Of my life.
The sound of all of those voices praising God was definitely a powerful one.
I know in my life I've placed other people and things on my throne. I've even sat on it myself for long periods of time. I need to give God the place He is due every day, in every way, in every possible aspect of my life.
"In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him were seraphs, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. And they were calling to one another: 'Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.'" Isaiah 6:1-3
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
2 More Weeks!!!
Patrick called today. Wow! Again, God knew what I needed! His platoon didn't get to call on Sunday, so I was moping around all week. Hadn't even gotten a letter. Then, while I was taking a small nap, my phone rang. It was Patrick. He sounded great. He passed his final PT test on Tuesday. YIPPEE!!! It's downhill from here. We'll arrive at Fort Jackson exactly two weeks from tonight.
He's got a big "ruck" march tomorrow. Don't know exactly what that means. Then, next week he's got to go on a big trip "in the field." It's called Victory Forge. He'll be away from civilization for several days doing soldier stuff.
Because he passed his last test, he'll be rewarded with a three hour on-post pass tomorrow. Maybe he'll get to call me again for longer than ten minutes. I could not be more proud of Patrick. Forgive the major sappiness, but he's totally my hero!
He's got a big "ruck" march tomorrow. Don't know exactly what that means. Then, next week he's got to go on a big trip "in the field." It's called Victory Forge. He'll be away from civilization for several days doing soldier stuff.
Because he passed his last test, he'll be rewarded with a three hour on-post pass tomorrow. Maybe he'll get to call me again for longer than ten minutes. I could not be more proud of Patrick. Forgive the major sappiness, but he's totally my hero!
Good Rainy Day Piece
If you haven't heard it yet, scroll through my play list and find Adagio for Strings by Samuel Barber. It is great for the day we're having here. Let me know if you like it. It's one of my faves.
Apology
Yes, the time on this post is accurate. I woke up about an hour ago after a very vivid nightmare. Fully awake, I could not fall back to sleep. I've been thinking about something someone said about my blog. So, I have to do this.
Last week, I changed the "About Me" section on my blog to state that "I am currently a stay-at-home bum. Call me pathetic, really."
I didn't even think about the fact that many of my own readers might be offended. Please know that I in no way meant to insult or offend those of you who are choosing to be Chief Domestic Officers/Operators. I admire stay-at-home moms. You work your butts off and are constantly negotiating the tough waters of being a parent. Two of my own sisters are the hardest working stay-at-home moms I've ever met. When I have kids, I hope to do the same.
Please understand, that in my current unemployed state, I truly feel like a bum. Unlike actual mothers, I am lazy and have no motivation to do anything. I guess I could get a job if I wanted one, but so far, there's no desire. This was all I meant by the new material in that section. It has since been changed. Please know my heart on this matter. I truly did not mean to insult anyone.
Last week, I changed the "About Me" section on my blog to state that "I am currently a stay-at-home bum. Call me pathetic, really."
I didn't even think about the fact that many of my own readers might be offended. Please know that I in no way meant to insult or offend those of you who are choosing to be Chief Domestic Officers/Operators. I admire stay-at-home moms. You work your butts off and are constantly negotiating the tough waters of being a parent. Two of my own sisters are the hardest working stay-at-home moms I've ever met. When I have kids, I hope to do the same.
Please understand, that in my current unemployed state, I truly feel like a bum. Unlike actual mothers, I am lazy and have no motivation to do anything. I guess I could get a job if I wanted one, but so far, there's no desire. This was all I meant by the new material in that section. It has since been changed. Please know my heart on this matter. I truly did not mean to insult anyone.
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