Greetings! You may find more blogs like this in the future, where I don't have a lot of brainpower and/or time and just put my random thoughts into a quick blog. It could be interesting! :) So on this last Sunday in August, as I look forward to starting school this week, here are my random thoughts....
*Roadkill... There has been kind of a lot of roadkill around here lately. The disturbing part is that almost as soon as the poor animal is dead, the very large, well-fed huge vultures descend on said animal and soon it is no more. This happened to an armadillo looking animal right outside my apartment parking lot the other day. The only thing left now is his shell. Today they were surrounding a huge turtle. I realize they have to eat and this is the way God created things. But it's rather disturbing to see. And gross. And really....do they have to be such fat vultures? It means way too many creatures have met with their demise...
*I was squeezing lemons at Chick-fil-A yesterday (yes, we really do have homemade lemonade. We hand squeeze the lemons every day and then add lots and lots of sugar and some water.). As I was squeezing, one of the lemons slipped and I juiced my knuckle instead. I would not recommend this! Today my knuckle is bruised and a little swollen and sore. :(
*I know people might think I'm sometimes a little crazy for wearing fun socks and keeping my inner child alive. But did you know it's catching?? Yesterday at the Chick, we were listening to music while we were making all the food, and we turned the radio to a Disney station. It was playing all the classic Disney songs, and I might have helped start the sing-a-long by belting out a few lines, but before long everyone had joined in, boys included. Sometimes the inner child just needs a bit of encouragement before it makes an appearance!
*I'm very thankful that school is starting all around the world. Disney World is back to how it should be - no lines, just waiting for me to show up and ride some rides. :)
*I have done a lot of reading for my first classes this week - trying to stay current on the reading assignments. I haven't even been to class yet and I've learned a lot. I have a feeling this whole experience is going to change my life on every level. Scary and yet exciting!!
*We're keeping an eye on all of the storms out in the ocean. I may get my wish to tie myself to a tree and hang on after all. We shall see!
*Laughter is good for the soul. I'm off to spend some fun times with the roommate. Have a great week everyone!
**PS...I LOVE BASEBALL!!!!! GO BRAVES!!!!
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Monday, August 23, 2010
Starting School
Greetings to all the readers of my blog, however few of you there may now be! :) I have done a horrible job updating my blog this summer, mostly because I haven't had a lot of time. I've thought about discontinuing my blog, but I really do enjoy creating entries, and I like having a record of life from these past few years. So for now, the blog continues, and we'll see how it goes!
I'm sitting at my desk in my room - I have a desk! :) - while my cat snoozes on my bed. I am surrounded by a couple of piles of books. I have received all of my books for my classes for this upcoming semester, and I have also just gotten the syllabus for the first two classes I will be taking. One of my classes will last for the entire semester, and then the other class will last the first 8 weeks of the semester, and then my third class will be the second 8 weeks of the semester. It's gonna be a little crazy, folks. I'm pretty much just strapping on my seatbelt, taking a deep breath, and holding on for dear life! I had a moment of panic last week when I received my syllabus for the first 8 week class. I was less panicked when I received the other one today. I have to be honest - I have NO IDEA how in the world I am going to get all of the work done while working 45 hours a week, but I figure I'll just take everything one moment at a time and hope it all gets finished on time.
I've been debating back and forth all summer on whether or not to send out support letters to try to raise some funds to help with living expenses and school costs as I begin this adventure. I'm not one that likes to ask for help, especially monetarily, but the bottom line is that I can't do this without help, so I'm asking. I'm in the process of sending out the letters this week. I will be sending them to those family and friends I think wouldn't mind receiving one. But I also wanted those of you who read my blog to have the option of receiving a letter if you'd like to. Even if you aren't able to financially contribute, if you want to know the information and be willing to pray for me, feel free to email me and I'll make sure you get a letter. My email address is [tj2301@yahoo.com]. I would just post the letter here on my blog, but it contains information that I don't want on the internet, so if you want to make sure you receive one, shoot me an email with your address!
Thanks in advance for your prayers as I begin this next adventure. I am confident that I am where I am supposed to be and that God is guiding my path, but it's also a little overwhelming at the same time. I haven't been in school in ten years, so I'm hopeful I'll remember how to study! :) And I'm also asking for prayer for wisdom as I try to balance my schedule between work, school, and doing a few fun things now and then to stay sane. I am super excited to begin this, and as I see the books I'll be reading and the topics that I'll be learning about, I can't wait to see how God continues to shape and grow me as He prepares me for what lies ahead.
I'll do my very best to post updates on how things are going and what I am learning. Thanks for reading my blog and for all of your encouragement and support! Have a great week!
I'm sitting at my desk in my room - I have a desk! :) - while my cat snoozes on my bed. I am surrounded by a couple of piles of books. I have received all of my books for my classes for this upcoming semester, and I have also just gotten the syllabus for the first two classes I will be taking. One of my classes will last for the entire semester, and then the other class will last the first 8 weeks of the semester, and then my third class will be the second 8 weeks of the semester. It's gonna be a little crazy, folks. I'm pretty much just strapping on my seatbelt, taking a deep breath, and holding on for dear life! I had a moment of panic last week when I received my syllabus for the first 8 week class. I was less panicked when I received the other one today. I have to be honest - I have NO IDEA how in the world I am going to get all of the work done while working 45 hours a week, but I figure I'll just take everything one moment at a time and hope it all gets finished on time.
I've been debating back and forth all summer on whether or not to send out support letters to try to raise some funds to help with living expenses and school costs as I begin this adventure. I'm not one that likes to ask for help, especially monetarily, but the bottom line is that I can't do this without help, so I'm asking. I'm in the process of sending out the letters this week. I will be sending them to those family and friends I think wouldn't mind receiving one. But I also wanted those of you who read my blog to have the option of receiving a letter if you'd like to. Even if you aren't able to financially contribute, if you want to know the information and be willing to pray for me, feel free to email me and I'll make sure you get a letter. My email address is [tj2301@yahoo.com]. I would just post the letter here on my blog, but it contains information that I don't want on the internet, so if you want to make sure you receive one, shoot me an email with your address!
Thanks in advance for your prayers as I begin this next adventure. I am confident that I am where I am supposed to be and that God is guiding my path, but it's also a little overwhelming at the same time. I haven't been in school in ten years, so I'm hopeful I'll remember how to study! :) And I'm also asking for prayer for wisdom as I try to balance my schedule between work, school, and doing a few fun things now and then to stay sane. I am super excited to begin this, and as I see the books I'll be reading and the topics that I'll be learning about, I can't wait to see how God continues to shape and grow me as He prepares me for what lies ahead.
I'll do my very best to post updates on how things are going and what I am learning. Thanks for reading my blog and for all of your encouragement and support! Have a great week!
Friday, August 6, 2010
My Room
Greetings from the ATL! I am here for the weekend hanging out with the fam, so more pictures and posts to come soon. I wanted to post a few pictures of my updated room though. It makes me smile, and I love it, even if the colors might be a little bold or bright for most. :)
My room was inspired by my new shower curtain that looks like this:
I decided to keep the color theme going throughout my room. This is my bed and curtains that I created.
Before I got the curtains hung up, Ellie enjoyed playing in them and laying on them.
I still have to take pictures of our living room and the changes we made there, but because I moved a piece of furniture out of my room to the living room, I now have space for a desk. Since I'm going to be starting school, I thought it would be a good idea to have a place to get work done. My desk makes me smile. :)
So there you have it! I can't be in my room or bathroom and not smile, and I think that's a good thing. Many thanks to my parents for helping me get all of this set up while they were visiting. More to come very soon!
My room was inspired by my new shower curtain that looks like this:
I decided to keep the color theme going throughout my room. This is my bed and curtains that I created.
Before I got the curtains hung up, Ellie enjoyed playing in them and laying on them.
I still have to take pictures of our living room and the changes we made there, but because I moved a piece of furniture out of my room to the living room, I now have space for a desk. Since I'm going to be starting school, I thought it would be a good idea to have a place to get work done. My desk makes me smile. :)
So there you have it! I can't be in my room or bathroom and not smile, and I think that's a good thing. Many thanks to my parents for helping me get all of this set up while they were visiting. More to come very soon!
Monday, July 26, 2010
Grilling
I have seriously been the worst blogger ever lately, and it's not really for lack of anything to say. It's more of getting adjusted to this new schedule that I have. I am working between 40 and 45 hours at Chick-fil-A each week, and I have Wednesdays and then of course Sundays off. I never realized how difficult it is to not have two days off in a row until I don't have that. I have no idea what day it is anymore. Time has sort of become a lost concept, and since I work on Saturdays, weekends aren't as exciting either. Don't get me wrong - I still love having two days off a week - it's just weird that they aren't together! The other day I thought it was Tuesday when it was actually Friday. Haha... one thing about this is that time is seriously flying by. I can't believe that this is the last week of July! I only have a little more than a month before I start school, and I can't wait!!! More to come on that soon.
Anyway, some happenings here... Nikki and I decided to stay in our apartment for a host of reasons instead of moving. Since making that decision, we are just sprucing things up a bit here. One thing I did was change my shower curtain in my bathroom to this totally fun and brightly colored one. The rug is hot pink in case you can't tell.
I absolutely love it! I can't look at it and not smile, which is a good thing. I have a few more changes to make, and more pictures will be forthcoming. We're going to move some furniture around and hang up some pictures, so I'll have lots to show you. My parents are actually coming to visit this weekend. They were originally planning to help us move, but now they'll just help us with the changes and then we'll have fun hanging out. Can't wait to see them! They haven't been down here together since Thanksgiving.
Another addition to the apartment was a little electric grill (thanks Pa & Ma!!!). It's the only kind that we are allowed to have, but I LOVE it!!
Isn't it cute?? :) My first thing to cook on it was homemade hamburgers (cheeseburgers). They were delicious!
I was worried that because it was electric, the food wouldn't taste grilled, but I think because it has a lid on it that traps the smoke, that helps it taste grilled. Regardless of how it works, the food is good. I grilled chicken and veggies the other night that were fantastic. I shall become a grilling master. Mmm... :)
Much more to come soon - I will have some posts of the parentals and the changes to the apartment coming, as well as some updates on life and school. I really am enjoying living here in Florida and am excited about all that lies ahead! I shall end this post with a random picture. I took this picture during a Nor'easter my first fall in Boston. I braved the crazy wind and waves and tried not to ruin my camera taking this. I submitted it to a website asking for water pictures just for fun cuz I think it's kinda cool, so I shall leave you with this image of the glorious power of God. Have a great week!
Anyway, some happenings here... Nikki and I decided to stay in our apartment for a host of reasons instead of moving. Since making that decision, we are just sprucing things up a bit here. One thing I did was change my shower curtain in my bathroom to this totally fun and brightly colored one. The rug is hot pink in case you can't tell.
I absolutely love it! I can't look at it and not smile, which is a good thing. I have a few more changes to make, and more pictures will be forthcoming. We're going to move some furniture around and hang up some pictures, so I'll have lots to show you. My parents are actually coming to visit this weekend. They were originally planning to help us move, but now they'll just help us with the changes and then we'll have fun hanging out. Can't wait to see them! They haven't been down here together since Thanksgiving.
Another addition to the apartment was a little electric grill (thanks Pa & Ma!!!). It's the only kind that we are allowed to have, but I LOVE it!!
Isn't it cute?? :) My first thing to cook on it was homemade hamburgers (cheeseburgers). They were delicious!
I was worried that because it was electric, the food wouldn't taste grilled, but I think because it has a lid on it that traps the smoke, that helps it taste grilled. Regardless of how it works, the food is good. I grilled chicken and veggies the other night that were fantastic. I shall become a grilling master. Mmm... :)
Much more to come soon - I will have some posts of the parentals and the changes to the apartment coming, as well as some updates on life and school. I really am enjoying living here in Florida and am excited about all that lies ahead! I shall end this post with a random picture. I took this picture during a Nor'easter my first fall in Boston. I braved the crazy wind and waves and tried not to ruin my camera taking this. I submitted it to a website asking for water pictures just for fun cuz I think it's kinda cool, so I shall leave you with this image of the glorious power of God. Have a great week!
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Random Tidbits
Happy 13th of July! This month is flying by....I only have about a month and a half until school starts, and I am so excited! More to come on that very soon, but for now, here are some random updates about life here in Orlando.
*My cat still makes me smile. Here she is, caught sitting on a TV tray (bad cat!), appearing to pray. Perhaps prayer to escape getting in trouble??
*My brother has been in Orlando since Thursday and I have enjoyed having a family member here for an extended period of time. It's nice to spend a week with someone without there being an event that you are getting together for. I'm also really proud of my brother. He is walking through a tough time right now but he is following God, even in the hard moments. Basically, he rocks, and I love him!
*The major league baseball All-Star game is tonight. I'm super excited to watch it! Yay for 6 Braves making the team, yay for the Braves being in first place at this point in the season, and yay for baseball in general!
*Now that I know where I'm going to be living (Nikki and I decided to stay right where we are!), I am going to do a couple of things to freshen up my living arrangements. Step number 1 is a new shower curtain. I might change color schemes. We shall see. Pictures to come at a later date! I might get curtains. I am going to get rid of some stuff and hang some stuff on the walls. Yay for change that doesn't require moving!
*Jesus loves me - and He loves you too! I know this, but sometimes I need to be reminded of this truth. And He loves me for who I am, despite all of my imperfections and inadequacies. I am learning to love me in spite of those things as well. I love Jesus too. :)
*Sometimes, no matter how hot it is outside, you need to play mini-golf. So I'm off to kick my brother's tail!! Have a great week!
*My cat still makes me smile. Here she is, caught sitting on a TV tray (bad cat!), appearing to pray. Perhaps prayer to escape getting in trouble??
*My brother has been in Orlando since Thursday and I have enjoyed having a family member here for an extended period of time. It's nice to spend a week with someone without there being an event that you are getting together for. I'm also really proud of my brother. He is walking through a tough time right now but he is following God, even in the hard moments. Basically, he rocks, and I love him!
*The major league baseball All-Star game is tonight. I'm super excited to watch it! Yay for 6 Braves making the team, yay for the Braves being in first place at this point in the season, and yay for baseball in general!
*Now that I know where I'm going to be living (Nikki and I decided to stay right where we are!), I am going to do a couple of things to freshen up my living arrangements. Step number 1 is a new shower curtain. I might change color schemes. We shall see. Pictures to come at a later date! I might get curtains. I am going to get rid of some stuff and hang some stuff on the walls. Yay for change that doesn't require moving!
*Jesus loves me - and He loves you too! I know this, but sometimes I need to be reminded of this truth. And He loves me for who I am, despite all of my imperfections and inadequacies. I am learning to love me in spite of those things as well. I love Jesus too. :)
*Sometimes, no matter how hot it is outside, you need to play mini-golf. So I'm off to kick my brother's tail!! Have a great week!
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Year In Review
Happy July 1st! If you can believe it, a couple of days ago marked the year anniversary of when Nikki and I moved to Florida. When we drove into town on June 29th last year, I don't think either one of us had any idea of what was in store for our first year here.
We were excited about a new adventure but the adventure of this past year has been a little unlike what I expected. I guess that's pretty normal in life, but had you told me then where I would end up a year later, I might not have believed you! To celebrate my first year here in Florida, I thought I'd share with you some of the things I have learned/been reminded of while here. Enjoy!!
I Love Disney World!!
I know that this probably isn't a great surprise, but being here with Disney in my backyard has only increased my love for it. I have so enjoyed being able to go to the parks whenever I want and ride rides and see the parks decorated for holidays, etc. One would think that after going repeated times, the magic would start to wear off some, but that is not the case. No matter how many times I have gone to a park this past year, each time I drive under the "Welcome to Disney" sign or walk into a park, my heart smiles.
I Love Fireworks!
One of the perks of where Nikki and have lived this last year is that we can see the fireworks at Magic Kingdom from our balcony every night. I have enjoyed this greatly! In fact, I plan to watch the 4th of July fireworks from my balcony in a few days. Their show is amazing and I don't have to be in a crowd! Anyway, despite the fact that I can see fireworks on a nightly basis if I want to, I still love them! If I am ever driving home at night and can see them going off in the sky, I'm always like, "Oh my gosh! There are the fireworks!!!" Then I remember to pay attention and not drive off the road, but it is such a fun sight. I am a fan. :)
Rainbows Are Glorious
I have seen a good number of rainbows in the year I have lived here. I guess with the afternoon storms and abundant sunshine, conditions are right for them. God has been so kind to me though through rainbows this year as they have often appeared when I needed a reminder that He loved me and that His promises are true. He is faithful and while I know this to be true, sometimes it's nice to see a sign of His faithfulness before your very eyes.
I'd Rather Be Hot Than Cold
I loved my time in Boston. God did so much work in my life and I had an amazing group of people to share life with, lots of whom I still keep in touch with a year after leaving. I do miss seeing snow fall on occasion, but I would much rather be hot than cold! I love being able to walk outside any time of the year and do something outside whenever I want to. I love the sunshine and warmth and light. And while it's ridiculously hot outside right now, I'd rather deal with that than the freezing cold darkness.
Jesus Is Bigger Than Anxiety
My struggle with anxiety has been well chronicled on this blog, so I won't go into huge detail here. Suffice it to say that when I moved to Florida a year ago, I was still struggling very much with anxiety and panic attacks and not being able to calm down. I tried the medication route and nothing worked because I had reactions to everything, and I just remember getting to a place of being completely over everything. I was tired of the anxiety, I felt like it was never going to go away, I didn't know what to do or what to try, and I just wanted to be able to be myself. I ended up deciding to go back to counseling, and it was the best decision to make. God led me to the most fabulous counselor ever, and she has walked with me through the journey of this past year, pushing me, encouraging me, and pointing me to God as He has healed and restored and redeemed so much in my life. Through this deeper, sometimes painful healing that has taken place, the anxiety and panic attacks have faded. I still battle anxiety sometimes, but I know how to better handle it now - how to calm down - and more importantly, Who to turn to and the truth to stand firm in. The healing that God has done in my life has been one of the greatest gifts He has given me in my time here in Florida. I will be forever grateful for His gift of the right person to walk this journey with (everyone should go to counseling!!), His gift of healing, and the courage He is giving me to walk in the freedom He has given me.
I Can Still Dream
When I arrived in Florida, I think a part of me was resigned to the fact that this was my life and always would be. I was going to have to work in jobs I didn't love so I could provide for myself, and the dreams I had before were always going to remain unfulfilled dreams. Yes, this is dramatic, but it's honest. Through this year of healing though, God has shown me that not only is it okay to still dream but that He has some dreams for me that were far bigger than anything I could imagine. I never thought I'd go back to school again, but here I am a couple of months away from beginning a program that I am so excited about and feel made for. For the first time in a long time, I am able to dream about "someday" again. I don't know if God has a husband and kids in my future or not. If not, He'll be enough, but regardless, I'm able to dream about it again. And while I'm excited about the specific dreams that are being awakened in me, I'm most excited about the fact that dreaming is taking place again!
Pets Are Awesome
I have had Ellie for 6 years now, and she keeps making me smile. I am grateful for the gift of pets and the funniness that she adds to my life. She likes Florida too, and she especially likes sleeping on pillows.
Kindred Spirits Are The Best
I am so thankful for the kindred spirits God has given me through the years. I have enjoyed having Nikki as a roommate this year and seeing how God has redeemed both of our stories individually and as friends. (As an aside - we are currently looking for a new place to live, seeing how we have to be out of our apartment in a month. My last name when I was married was Harper and Nikki's was Phillips. We have some realtor people helping us look for places. So how ironic that Mr. & Mrs. Harper are helping us and we may have found a place to live in Dr. Phillips. God is sick sometimes. :P) But seriously, having Nikki to share this year with and being able to reconnect with Jenn and still having my mom as a friend....well, I'm a lucky girl.
I Love My Family
I have the greatest family ever. They have walked with me through this past year, and I have walked with them in their own stories. A lot has changed in a year for all of us, but I am so thankful for each of them and the gift it is to have your family also be some of your closest friends.
Now here we stand at the beginning of a new year in Florida, a year that is sure to hold adventures that I can't even begin to imagine. Some things are planned but most of what's ahead is unknown. Thankfully, I am a child of a very big God who loves me more than I can comprehend. No matter what this year holds, we'll walk the path together. And I can't wait to see what He has in store! Happy 4th!
We were excited about a new adventure but the adventure of this past year has been a little unlike what I expected. I guess that's pretty normal in life, but had you told me then where I would end up a year later, I might not have believed you! To celebrate my first year here in Florida, I thought I'd share with you some of the things I have learned/been reminded of while here. Enjoy!!
I Love Disney World!!
I know that this probably isn't a great surprise, but being here with Disney in my backyard has only increased my love for it. I have so enjoyed being able to go to the parks whenever I want and ride rides and see the parks decorated for holidays, etc. One would think that after going repeated times, the magic would start to wear off some, but that is not the case. No matter how many times I have gone to a park this past year, each time I drive under the "Welcome to Disney" sign or walk into a park, my heart smiles.
I Love Fireworks!
One of the perks of where Nikki and have lived this last year is that we can see the fireworks at Magic Kingdom from our balcony every night. I have enjoyed this greatly! In fact, I plan to watch the 4th of July fireworks from my balcony in a few days. Their show is amazing and I don't have to be in a crowd! Anyway, despite the fact that I can see fireworks on a nightly basis if I want to, I still love them! If I am ever driving home at night and can see them going off in the sky, I'm always like, "Oh my gosh! There are the fireworks!!!" Then I remember to pay attention and not drive off the road, but it is such a fun sight. I am a fan. :)
Rainbows Are Glorious
I have seen a good number of rainbows in the year I have lived here. I guess with the afternoon storms and abundant sunshine, conditions are right for them. God has been so kind to me though through rainbows this year as they have often appeared when I needed a reminder that He loved me and that His promises are true. He is faithful and while I know this to be true, sometimes it's nice to see a sign of His faithfulness before your very eyes.
I'd Rather Be Hot Than Cold
I loved my time in Boston. God did so much work in my life and I had an amazing group of people to share life with, lots of whom I still keep in touch with a year after leaving. I do miss seeing snow fall on occasion, but I would much rather be hot than cold! I love being able to walk outside any time of the year and do something outside whenever I want to. I love the sunshine and warmth and light. And while it's ridiculously hot outside right now, I'd rather deal with that than the freezing cold darkness.
Jesus Is Bigger Than Anxiety
My struggle with anxiety has been well chronicled on this blog, so I won't go into huge detail here. Suffice it to say that when I moved to Florida a year ago, I was still struggling very much with anxiety and panic attacks and not being able to calm down. I tried the medication route and nothing worked because I had reactions to everything, and I just remember getting to a place of being completely over everything. I was tired of the anxiety, I felt like it was never going to go away, I didn't know what to do or what to try, and I just wanted to be able to be myself. I ended up deciding to go back to counseling, and it was the best decision to make. God led me to the most fabulous counselor ever, and she has walked with me through the journey of this past year, pushing me, encouraging me, and pointing me to God as He has healed and restored and redeemed so much in my life. Through this deeper, sometimes painful healing that has taken place, the anxiety and panic attacks have faded. I still battle anxiety sometimes, but I know how to better handle it now - how to calm down - and more importantly, Who to turn to and the truth to stand firm in. The healing that God has done in my life has been one of the greatest gifts He has given me in my time here in Florida. I will be forever grateful for His gift of the right person to walk this journey with (everyone should go to counseling!!), His gift of healing, and the courage He is giving me to walk in the freedom He has given me.
I Can Still Dream
When I arrived in Florida, I think a part of me was resigned to the fact that this was my life and always would be. I was going to have to work in jobs I didn't love so I could provide for myself, and the dreams I had before were always going to remain unfulfilled dreams. Yes, this is dramatic, but it's honest. Through this year of healing though, God has shown me that not only is it okay to still dream but that He has some dreams for me that were far bigger than anything I could imagine. I never thought I'd go back to school again, but here I am a couple of months away from beginning a program that I am so excited about and feel made for. For the first time in a long time, I am able to dream about "someday" again. I don't know if God has a husband and kids in my future or not. If not, He'll be enough, but regardless, I'm able to dream about it again. And while I'm excited about the specific dreams that are being awakened in me, I'm most excited about the fact that dreaming is taking place again!
Pets Are Awesome
I have had Ellie for 6 years now, and she keeps making me smile. I am grateful for the gift of pets and the funniness that she adds to my life. She likes Florida too, and she especially likes sleeping on pillows.
Kindred Spirits Are The Best
I am so thankful for the kindred spirits God has given me through the years. I have enjoyed having Nikki as a roommate this year and seeing how God has redeemed both of our stories individually and as friends. (As an aside - we are currently looking for a new place to live, seeing how we have to be out of our apartment in a month. My last name when I was married was Harper and Nikki's was Phillips. We have some realtor people helping us look for places. So how ironic that Mr. & Mrs. Harper are helping us and we may have found a place to live in Dr. Phillips. God is sick sometimes. :P) But seriously, having Nikki to share this year with and being able to reconnect with Jenn and still having my mom as a friend....well, I'm a lucky girl.
I Love My Family
I have the greatest family ever. They have walked with me through this past year, and I have walked with them in their own stories. A lot has changed in a year for all of us, but I am so thankful for each of them and the gift it is to have your family also be some of your closest friends.
Now here we stand at the beginning of a new year in Florida, a year that is sure to hold adventures that I can't even begin to imagine. Some things are planned but most of what's ahead is unknown. Thankfully, I am a child of a very big God who loves me more than I can comprehend. No matter what this year holds, we'll walk the path together. And I can't wait to see what He has in store! Happy 4th!
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Beauty Instead Of Ashes
I've shared with you guys before the quote on our kitchen rug: Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass....it's about learning to dance in the rain. There are all sorts of verses and quotations that people offer when you're going through a tough time. Make lemons out of lemonade... All things work for good... Everything is made beautiful in His time, etc., etc. It's certainly not that these things aren't true, but when you're in the midst of the storm, you can sometimes want to punch the person who says that to you. Or maybe that's just the hostility in me. :)
Anyway, I am currently volunteering in the Divorce Care ministry at my church, helping lead a group of people who are in the very beginning stages of their separation/divorce. It has been a difficult, rewarding, fascinating and humbling experience so far, and we still have a couple of months to go. I have already learned a lot, and it's been interesting to go through this class this far into my journey with divorce. I actually went through the class initially as a participant several months after my divorce, and it has been a drastically different experience to go through it this time around. I watch the videos with a much different perspective, and I have been encouraged in my own journey through this time.
One of the most awesome things for me has been seeing where God has brought me. The people in my group are very raw, hurting deeply, in the deepest part of their storm. I remember being there myself. But enough time has gone by that I sometimes forget where I really did start from. I forget how much God has healed me and how far He has brought me. Then I show up on a Tuesday night and realize all over again that all of those cliches that can sound so trite really are true. He has worked all things for my good and His glory. I have learned (and am still learning) what it means to dance in the rain. My very favorite "saying" comes from Isaiah 61. This is the passage Jesus quoted when He showed up on earth to explain His purpose:
"The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the afflicted; He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom to the captives..." The passage goes on to say, "To comfort all who mourn...giving them beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning..."
I love that phrase, beauty instead of ashes. It's true, you know. Jesus really does take the ashes out of our lives - from whatever storms may come along - and He makes beauty. When you're in the midst of the storm, it's often impossible to believe that anything beautiful can come from it. But that's one of the coolest parts about a group like Divorce Care - I can share that hope with those in that place. Because even though it seemed impossible, God has given me beauty instead of ashes. And I am so grateful He has.
I took this picture the other day. We were having a storm - I love how you can see where the rain was actually falling. But what I love even more is how it looks like the rainbow originates from the storm itself. Such a cool picture that represents an amazing gift that God offers to us - beauty instead of ashes - sometimes even when the storm is still happening.
Anyway, I am currently volunteering in the Divorce Care ministry at my church, helping lead a group of people who are in the very beginning stages of their separation/divorce. It has been a difficult, rewarding, fascinating and humbling experience so far, and we still have a couple of months to go. I have already learned a lot, and it's been interesting to go through this class this far into my journey with divorce. I actually went through the class initially as a participant several months after my divorce, and it has been a drastically different experience to go through it this time around. I watch the videos with a much different perspective, and I have been encouraged in my own journey through this time.
One of the most awesome things for me has been seeing where God has brought me. The people in my group are very raw, hurting deeply, in the deepest part of their storm. I remember being there myself. But enough time has gone by that I sometimes forget where I really did start from. I forget how much God has healed me and how far He has brought me. Then I show up on a Tuesday night and realize all over again that all of those cliches that can sound so trite really are true. He has worked all things for my good and His glory. I have learned (and am still learning) what it means to dance in the rain. My very favorite "saying" comes from Isaiah 61. This is the passage Jesus quoted when He showed up on earth to explain His purpose:
"The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the afflicted; He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom to the captives..." The passage goes on to say, "To comfort all who mourn...giving them beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning..."
I love that phrase, beauty instead of ashes. It's true, you know. Jesus really does take the ashes out of our lives - from whatever storms may come along - and He makes beauty. When you're in the midst of the storm, it's often impossible to believe that anything beautiful can come from it. But that's one of the coolest parts about a group like Divorce Care - I can share that hope with those in that place. Because even though it seemed impossible, God has given me beauty instead of ashes. And I am so grateful He has.
I took this picture the other day. We were having a storm - I love how you can see where the rain was actually falling. But what I love even more is how it looks like the rainbow originates from the storm itself. Such a cool picture that represents an amazing gift that God offers to us - beauty instead of ashes - sometimes even when the storm is still happening.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
The Best Pa
So today is Father's Day, and I'd like to take a moment to honor my dad here on my blog. I know there are a lot of people in this world who don't have great relationships with their dad, and I am so thankful and blessed that I do. My dad is a great man and has had a huge impact in the world God has placed him in, but I am most thankful for who he has been in my family. Since we are all spread out in various states and can't all be together today, we had a gift for the Pa and sent notes to him. Below is my note.... Happy Father's Day to all of you!
Dear Pa,
Happy Father’s Day! I hope that you have a great day of being celebrated and that you feel as special as you are! I wish that I could be there with you to spend the day with you, but since I can’t, I wanted to take a moment and wish you a fantastic day.
I’ve always thought you were the best dad ever, but the older I get, I appreciate you even more. As I have spent this past year looking for jobs and doing whatever I had to do to survive, I have gained a greater appreciation for the way you commuted to Atlanta for so many years, dealing with traffic and so much time on the road just so you could provide for your family. I’m happy for you that you don’t have to do that anymore! But thank you for taking care of us in so many big and little ways.
I also am thankful for the way your character has remained consistent throughout the years. You know who you are and what you believe, and you have stayed faithful to that. You have stood by God, by mom, and by us, and the integrity and honor that you live your life by is not something that is taken lightly. Thank you for being a true man of God and for showing Jesus to me.
Finally, thank you for the way that you support and encourage me and for challenging me to go after my dreams. Knowing that I have you in my corner helps give me courage to step out and take risks and try something new. I’m so excited to see what this next year holds for all of us, and it makes me smile to know that we’ll all share the journey together, no matter how far apart we may live.
Thanks for being you, Pa! You are my favorite dad ever!! ☺ Enjoy your Father’s Day and remember how much you are loved by so many.
I love you,
Tiffy Jones
Dear Pa,
Happy Father’s Day! I hope that you have a great day of being celebrated and that you feel as special as you are! I wish that I could be there with you to spend the day with you, but since I can’t, I wanted to take a moment and wish you a fantastic day.
I’ve always thought you were the best dad ever, but the older I get, I appreciate you even more. As I have spent this past year looking for jobs and doing whatever I had to do to survive, I have gained a greater appreciation for the way you commuted to Atlanta for so many years, dealing with traffic and so much time on the road just so you could provide for your family. I’m happy for you that you don’t have to do that anymore! But thank you for taking care of us in so many big and little ways.
I also am thankful for the way your character has remained consistent throughout the years. You know who you are and what you believe, and you have stayed faithful to that. You have stood by God, by mom, and by us, and the integrity and honor that you live your life by is not something that is taken lightly. Thank you for being a true man of God and for showing Jesus to me.
Finally, thank you for the way that you support and encourage me and for challenging me to go after my dreams. Knowing that I have you in my corner helps give me courage to step out and take risks and try something new. I’m so excited to see what this next year holds for all of us, and it makes me smile to know that we’ll all share the journey together, no matter how far apart we may live.
Thanks for being you, Pa! You are my favorite dad ever!! ☺ Enjoy your Father’s Day and remember how much you are loved by so many.
I love you,
Tiffy Jones
Monday, June 7, 2010
Twirl On!
I started this blog in 2007, when I knew I would be moving to Boston. (If you're ever bored, you should check out some of the early entries in the sidebar! :P) I have loved writing entries, sharing pictures, stories, prayer requests, things I'm learning or struggling with.... I enjoy having these last few years documented for many reasons. If I ever need to be reminded of the ways God has taken care of me, I only have to go back and look at a variety of entries. If I want to see how far I've come or how much healing has taken place, I need only read through some of the earliest things I wrote. Sometimes I blog because I want to share pictures of family hang out time, like in my entry below this. Other times I want to share a story or update you on life. And other times, I want to share something I am learning because getting it "on paper" helps me process even more. This is one of those times, so hang with me as I share.
God has been doing a lot of work in my life over this past year in dealing with performance. I have long struggled with performance issues - caring what people think, wanting to perform well for acceptance, etc. It matters to me to be thought well of, to do a great job, to be seen in a good light. I don't think there is anything wrong with wanting to do your best, but when the motivation behind that is because you're worried about how people will view you, then it becomes a problem. I do believe that God has done much work in this area of my life and that this is getting better, but it is still something I struggle with.
I feel like He is calling me to live and to love Him with absolute abandon - living fully, laying it all on the line, being fully engaged. It's easy to stand on the edge of a cliff and dream about what it would be like to jump off and fly through the air, knowing you'll be okay no matter what. It's another thing to actually take the jump. I think there's a part in all of us that wonders what might happen if we totally let go of the control we think we have and pursue God fully. What might He ask of me? What might He have in store? What might He allow - good or bad? And if I do this, what will my life look like? What will people think?
As children, we so easily trust. We live with abandon, fully engaged in life because we don't know any better. We have a joyful expectancy for what comes next, and we haven't yet learned from society that there are "rules" and cliques and things you should or shouldn't do to be cool.
I love the expression of innocent fun and the thumb on the hip. I knew I was loved!
I loved dressing like a cat!
I remember this outfit. It was my favorite one in elementary school and I thought I was SOOO cool wearing it. I'm slightly embarrassed to post it now! :)
My point in all of this is this: When does this perception and attitude that we have as children change? When do we start to notice and care what others think? For some, this happens earlier than for others. But regardless of when, we all make it to adulthood and start caring a lot more about others' opinions of us. Perhaps we hide some of the deepest parts of ourselves for fear of what people would think if they knew. But what if those parts that we hide are what make us uniquely us? What if people need to know? And even if they did know and thought less of us, then so what?
I have always had the heart of a child. I love the little things about life. It doesn't take much to make me smile. There are things I still love that most people probably wouldn't understand. For example, let me introduce you to Walter. Here he is:
Walter is my very favorite stuffed animal. I got him at Christmas my freshman year in high school. This makes Walter about 16 1/2 years old. He is very loved. He has literally gone on every trip I have taken since I got him. And he is one of three stuffed animals that I still sleep with, even though I'm 32. (It's okay, people. I'm in counseling!) Seriously though.... Walter makes me smile. There's a reason that he is special to me. And I don't care if any one else understands or if there are any other adults who still have stuffed animals on their bed. He's on mine. But why is that embarrassing to admit? What about it seems "not okay"?
The Chick-fil-A that I work at is inside of a really nice mall. In the center of the mall, there is a huge open space on the lower level. Hanging from the ceiling are enormous screens where they play fashion shows or images from nature and a variety of music all day long. I was walking through the mall the other day, and they had a classical piece of music playing. There were a few kids standing in the center of the open space dancing and twirling to the music. They were oblivious to others around them, and they were just going for it. I've seen this before and it always makes my heart smile. But this time, there was a difference. Their mom was right there with them in the center of the area, twirling and dancing with them. As I watched them, I wasn't thinking about how dumb she looked or wondering what in the world she was thinking. It was one of the most awesome scenes to watch. And yet how many of us would have been willing to throw caution to the wind and twirl around in a mall?
I felt like God gave this to me as a picture of what He calls us to. He has made each of us a wonderful and unique creation. When we live fully engaged, fully alive, pursuing Him wholeheartedly, He is made famous. When we let go of the things which trap us - the fears that keep us in hiding, everyone benefits. And God is glorified. It is my prayer that God will continue His work in my life in this area - that I will be able to live fully in freedom, not letting my performance or what others think be what dictate my actions. And I would challenge you to also examine your life, looking at the gifts that God has given you - the things that make you uniquely you. Is there anything you aren't offering because of what might happen if you do? However it might look in each of our lives, let's twirl on - for the sake of the Kingdom and for freedom in this life!
God has been doing a lot of work in my life over this past year in dealing with performance. I have long struggled with performance issues - caring what people think, wanting to perform well for acceptance, etc. It matters to me to be thought well of, to do a great job, to be seen in a good light. I don't think there is anything wrong with wanting to do your best, but when the motivation behind that is because you're worried about how people will view you, then it becomes a problem. I do believe that God has done much work in this area of my life and that this is getting better, but it is still something I struggle with.
I feel like He is calling me to live and to love Him with absolute abandon - living fully, laying it all on the line, being fully engaged. It's easy to stand on the edge of a cliff and dream about what it would be like to jump off and fly through the air, knowing you'll be okay no matter what. It's another thing to actually take the jump. I think there's a part in all of us that wonders what might happen if we totally let go of the control we think we have and pursue God fully. What might He ask of me? What might He have in store? What might He allow - good or bad? And if I do this, what will my life look like? What will people think?
As children, we so easily trust. We live with abandon, fully engaged in life because we don't know any better. We have a joyful expectancy for what comes next, and we haven't yet learned from society that there are "rules" and cliques and things you should or shouldn't do to be cool.
I love the expression of innocent fun and the thumb on the hip. I knew I was loved!
I loved dressing like a cat!
I remember this outfit. It was my favorite one in elementary school and I thought I was SOOO cool wearing it. I'm slightly embarrassed to post it now! :)
My point in all of this is this: When does this perception and attitude that we have as children change? When do we start to notice and care what others think? For some, this happens earlier than for others. But regardless of when, we all make it to adulthood and start caring a lot more about others' opinions of us. Perhaps we hide some of the deepest parts of ourselves for fear of what people would think if they knew. But what if those parts that we hide are what make us uniquely us? What if people need to know? And even if they did know and thought less of us, then so what?
I have always had the heart of a child. I love the little things about life. It doesn't take much to make me smile. There are things I still love that most people probably wouldn't understand. For example, let me introduce you to Walter. Here he is:
Walter is my very favorite stuffed animal. I got him at Christmas my freshman year in high school. This makes Walter about 16 1/2 years old. He is very loved. He has literally gone on every trip I have taken since I got him. And he is one of three stuffed animals that I still sleep with, even though I'm 32. (It's okay, people. I'm in counseling!) Seriously though.... Walter makes me smile. There's a reason that he is special to me. And I don't care if any one else understands or if there are any other adults who still have stuffed animals on their bed. He's on mine. But why is that embarrassing to admit? What about it seems "not okay"?
The Chick-fil-A that I work at is inside of a really nice mall. In the center of the mall, there is a huge open space on the lower level. Hanging from the ceiling are enormous screens where they play fashion shows or images from nature and a variety of music all day long. I was walking through the mall the other day, and they had a classical piece of music playing. There were a few kids standing in the center of the open space dancing and twirling to the music. They were oblivious to others around them, and they were just going for it. I've seen this before and it always makes my heart smile. But this time, there was a difference. Their mom was right there with them in the center of the area, twirling and dancing with them. As I watched them, I wasn't thinking about how dumb she looked or wondering what in the world she was thinking. It was one of the most awesome scenes to watch. And yet how many of us would have been willing to throw caution to the wind and twirl around in a mall?
I felt like God gave this to me as a picture of what He calls us to. He has made each of us a wonderful and unique creation. When we live fully engaged, fully alive, pursuing Him wholeheartedly, He is made famous. When we let go of the things which trap us - the fears that keep us in hiding, everyone benefits. And God is glorified. It is my prayer that God will continue His work in my life in this area - that I will be able to live fully in freedom, not letting my performance or what others think be what dictate my actions. And I would challenge you to also examine your life, looking at the gifts that God has given you - the things that make you uniquely you. Is there anything you aren't offering because of what might happen if you do? However it might look in each of our lives, let's twirl on - for the sake of the Kingdom and for freedom in this life!
Friday, June 4, 2010
A Visit To GA
Greetings to the faithful readers of my blog! :) I am sitting on my couch writing this blog before I have to head to work at 4. I have worked a ton of hours in the past few days and I am so tired! But I am thankful for the opportunity to work and be able to pay some bills. That is always a good thing!
So last weekend I got to spend a few days in Georgia, hanging out with some of my favorite people ever. Michael and Bekah had their GA reception, and it was so much fun to be a part of! With all of us living in different states, I find that I enjoy having the chance to spend time with my family even more, especially when we all have opportunity to be together at the same time. The reception was a great chance to catch up with a lot of family and friends - it was very nice to see all of you! :)
At one point I was looking around the room at the people who had gathered and I realized how many of you I have known for most of my life. I know people move around a lot more now and so I think lifelong friends are perhaps harder to come by. But I was quite thankful to see how many people have been a part of my life and my family's life for so many years. You guys have stuck by us through great times and tough times, and I personally am so thankful for your encouragement and prayers and the ways you have walked with me through this journey of the last few years.
And now some pictures from the weekend....I don't have a ton to share because I was so busy talking (shocking, I know!) that I didn't get a lot of pictures of those of you who came. I apologize for that, but know that we loved having each one of you there! Here is our new family (with some random child on the stairs!)...
Bekah's parents flew down for the reception, and it was great to see them again. My brother got very lucky with some fantastic in-laws!!
Jenn happened to be passing through town and was able to stop by with her cute girl. Yay for friends who met in GA, now live close by in Florida AND happen to be 3rd cousins!!
A few of those lifelong friends....thanks for all of your help! :)
Close friends of Michael's from high school/college...
After the reception for Michael & Bekah, we had a family cookout to celebrate Matthew's 30th birthday and to celebrate my parents' 34th wedding anniversary, which happened to be on that day. It was fun to have a relaxing evening enjoying hamburgers and hotdogs and celebrating. This is a picture after Matthew had just extinguished the candles on his cake.
Finally, in a perfect ending to a great weekend, we got to go to the Braves game on Sunday. I was so excited! It's been awhile since I've been to a Braves game, and even though I got to experience the awesomeness of Fenway Park on a regular basis while living in Boston, let's face it....I'm a psycho Braves fan through and through! (And on a side note, let's have a moment of silence for the fact that we are in first place by 3 games at the moment!!!!)
Here I am before the game. And yes, I added curls to my hair while in GA. I decided that if I am going to live in the FL heat and humidity and have to wear my hair up all the time for the Chick, I'm going to have a little fun with it. I think curly hair fits my personality too. :)
Here are my cute parents.
I don't think we have yet converted Bekah to being a baseball fan. She was still a good sport though!
Me and my favorite Pa
After the game, we went to the Varsity for some delicious food!
Here is Bekah experiencing her first Varsity food and Lindsay trying to eat healthy at a place known for grease.
So all in all, a most fantastic weekend! Thanks again to all of you for being a part of the celebration and for loving our family well. More to come soon! In the meantime, have a great weekend!
So last weekend I got to spend a few days in Georgia, hanging out with some of my favorite people ever. Michael and Bekah had their GA reception, and it was so much fun to be a part of! With all of us living in different states, I find that I enjoy having the chance to spend time with my family even more, especially when we all have opportunity to be together at the same time. The reception was a great chance to catch up with a lot of family and friends - it was very nice to see all of you! :)
At one point I was looking around the room at the people who had gathered and I realized how many of you I have known for most of my life. I know people move around a lot more now and so I think lifelong friends are perhaps harder to come by. But I was quite thankful to see how many people have been a part of my life and my family's life for so many years. You guys have stuck by us through great times and tough times, and I personally am so thankful for your encouragement and prayers and the ways you have walked with me through this journey of the last few years.
And now some pictures from the weekend....I don't have a ton to share because I was so busy talking (shocking, I know!) that I didn't get a lot of pictures of those of you who came. I apologize for that, but know that we loved having each one of you there! Here is our new family (with some random child on the stairs!)...
Bekah's parents flew down for the reception, and it was great to see them again. My brother got very lucky with some fantastic in-laws!!
Jenn happened to be passing through town and was able to stop by with her cute girl. Yay for friends who met in GA, now live close by in Florida AND happen to be 3rd cousins!!
A few of those lifelong friends....thanks for all of your help! :)
Close friends of Michael's from high school/college...
After the reception for Michael & Bekah, we had a family cookout to celebrate Matthew's 30th birthday and to celebrate my parents' 34th wedding anniversary, which happened to be on that day. It was fun to have a relaxing evening enjoying hamburgers and hotdogs and celebrating. This is a picture after Matthew had just extinguished the candles on his cake.
Finally, in a perfect ending to a great weekend, we got to go to the Braves game on Sunday. I was so excited! It's been awhile since I've been to a Braves game, and even though I got to experience the awesomeness of Fenway Park on a regular basis while living in Boston, let's face it....I'm a psycho Braves fan through and through! (And on a side note, let's have a moment of silence for the fact that we are in first place by 3 games at the moment!!!!)
Here I am before the game. And yes, I added curls to my hair while in GA. I decided that if I am going to live in the FL heat and humidity and have to wear my hair up all the time for the Chick, I'm going to have a little fun with it. I think curly hair fits my personality too. :)
Here are my cute parents.
I don't think we have yet converted Bekah to being a baseball fan. She was still a good sport though!
Me and my favorite Pa
After the game, we went to the Varsity for some delicious food!
Here is Bekah experiencing her first Varsity food and Lindsay trying to eat healthy at a place known for grease.
So all in all, a most fantastic weekend! Thanks again to all of you for being a part of the celebration and for loving our family well. More to come soon! In the meantime, have a great weekend!
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