'Tis so Sweet to Trust in Jesus...

This Too Shall Be Made Right

2009-04-06T19:43:00.003-04:00

As Resurrection Sunday approaches, I've been doing a lot of thinking about why Jesus came to earth. In the Sunday School curriculum our church uses, the past few weeks have been full of commentary on how clueless the disciples were at the true purpose of Jesus' ministry. They thought Jesus had come to be the Messiah, yes; but in a political sense - to set things right with the world - to overthrow Roman rule and set up his Kingdom on earth. Jesus' ministry so many years ago was out of obedience to the Father - to do what we could not do - to live a perfect and sinless life and to die in our place - to take our punishment - that we may be made right with God.

As I've meditated on this these few weeks before we celebrate his resurrection, I think of his coming again. When Jesus comes again it will not as it was then. He will be here to make everything right - a just and righteous judge.

The words of Derek Webb's song "This Too Shall Be Made Right" are really resounding with me now. The song is a thoughtful commentary on how fallen our world presently is and yet how we hope for the day when Christ returns and makes all things new. Enjoy the lyrics below:

"This Too Shall Be Made Right"
Derek Webb

people love you the most for the things you hate

and hate you for loving the things

that you cannot keep straight

people judge you on a curve

and tell you you’re getting what you deserve

this too shall be made right

children cannot learn

when children cannot eat

stack them like lumber when children cannot sleep

children dream of wishing wells

whose waters quench all the fires of Hell

this too shall be made right

the earth and the sky and the sea are all holding their breath

wars and abuses have nature groaning with death

we say we’re just trying to stay alive

but it looks so much more like a way to die

this too shall be made right

there’s a time for peace and there is a time for war

a time to forgive and a time to settle the score

a time for babies to lose their lives

a time for hunger and genocide

this too shall be made right

I don’t know the suffering of people outside my front door

I join the oppressors of those who i choose to ignore

I’m trading comfort for human life

and that’s not just murder it’s suicide

this too shall be made right

Two and a Half Months Later

2009-01-29T14:16:00.003-05:00

...so it's been a while.

Why? Well our neighbor, whom we shared wireless with moved and of course, took her wireless with her. Sadness for us. Though I must admit that not having the internet at home - I was able to get a lot more accomplished. It did however, make for some spur of the moment jaunts to Panera to partake of hot chocolate and free wifi there.

Now? We have new neighbors and are back to sharing wireless again. It stinks being poor and having to share, but whatcha going to do?

Since November:
-I cooked my first Thanksgiving meal: Turkey and all the trimmings.
-Shared Thanksgiving with our Cuban & Mexican friends.
-Spent the days before Christmas in WV with James' family.
-Spent Christmas itself in Louisville.
-Spent the days after Christmas in TN with my family.
-Heard James preach at my home church on New Years' Eve.
-Turned THIRTY! (crazy)
-Survived a bought with Salmonella. (no more pb for me)
-Currently cooped up in the house due to the Snow/Ice storm that has blanketed KY.

Presidential Meme

2008-11-05T17:00:00.003-05:00

Over at Making Home, Jess did a little meme about the various presidential elections she has lived through. I thought it was cool, so I've blatantly copied her :)

My thoughts on this election
I wish I could have voted for Obama. I really do - to be apart of the group that elected the first biracial president - how could would that have been - except for the fact that I couldn't vote for him. Why not? Not because he's biracial - that really means little to me, in fact it kinda excited me. Not because he's a democrat - I'm actually registered as a democrat! Why then? Simply because of his staunch pro-choice stance. You may say I'm making too much of one issue and perhaps I am ... but I like to think that had I lived in the 1960s I would have made too much of the one issue of segregation or had I lived in the 1920s I would have made too much of the one issue of women's suffrage... But that aside, Obama is now my president and I am commited to praying for him. Praying for him to have wisdom in guiding our country; praying for his safety; praying for the health of his marriage; praying for God to draw him close to him.

A Quick Review of the Elections of my Life

1980: Ronald Reagan
1. I REMEMBER: absolutely nothing
2. I WAS: 22 months old
3. DURING THAT 4 YEARS: My family moved from Merryville to Nashville, I learned to walk, started school, learned to read.

1984: Ronald Reagan
1. I REMEMBER: nothing, again
2. I WAS: in first grade
3. DURING THAT 4 YEARS: I got my ears pierced, learned to ride a bike, started attending Scottsboro First Baptist Church, celebrated when my sister got married, cried when my mom went into the hospital for the first time (of many) in my life.

1988: George HW Bush
1. I REMEMBER: not a lot, except that I thought Dukakis was a funny name - yeah I know, really mature :)
2. I WAS: in fourth grade
3. DURING THAT 4 YEARS: We moved to Jackson, then back to Nashville, Dad fell on the jobsite and was in the hospital, celebrated when my neice Angela was born, cried when my dog Bear Baby died.

1992: Bill Clinton
1. I REMEMBER: that our school held a mock election and I was on Ross Perot's team.
2. I WAS: in 8th grade
3. DURING THAT FOUR YEARS: I started driving, was horribly rebellious towards my parents, had my first two boyfriends (who each contributed to my rebelliousness), won the geography bee at school, stopped going to church (due to my rebelliousness), then returned to church (due to God's gracious pursuit of me).

1996: Bill Clinton
1. I REMEMBER: being upset that I wasn't quite 18 yet and hence could not vote.
2. I WAS: in 12th grade.
3. DURING THAT 4 YEARS: Graduated High School, Started College, I lost my mom to the horrible consequences of diabetes, Truly committed my life to Christ, Grieved alongside my best friend when she lost her mom.

2000: George W. Bush
1. I REMEMBER: voting for the first time - yahoo!
2. I WAS: a senior in college.
3. DURING THAT 4 YEARS: Graduated College, Started my first teaching job, Was Baptized, Went on my first mission trip, Felt called to Missions, Moved to Louisville from Nashville, Started Seminary.

2004: George W. Bush
1. I REMEMBER: wondering if this would be my last election in the states or not.
2. I WAS: beginning seminary
3. DURING THAT 4 YEARS: Traveled to Jamaica, France, Peru, and Montana, Learned so much and grew so much in the LORD, Graduated Seminary, Got Married, Started teaching again.

Using that Seminary Degree

2008-10-14T18:37:00.003-04:00

So, while I do LOVE my teaching job - part of me does at times feel bad about not being in full-time ministry during this period of waiting until James' graduates and we can go overseas, Lord willing. Anyway, today I realized that I am putting that M.Div to good use afterall.

Exhibit A: The first graders actually ask some rather deep questions about theology. Granted, they don't exactly know they are asking deep theological questions, they're just curious and wanting to know. But today alone I answered questions related to the Total Depravity of Man, Inherent Sin, Inherent Guilt, Propitiation, etc... Now, I will say I didn't use those exact terms in my answers for if I had, the first graders would have been slightly confused, but it was a deeply theological discussion nonetheless.

Exhibit B: Last Friday, Eduardo and the crew weren't able to make it to ESL so James and I took to the streets. We went to various companies frequented by hispanics to hang up ESL fliers. In God's faithful providence, we were able to connect with a lady who is an apartment manager of a predominently hispanic apartment complex. We followed her to the complex and had a converstaion with a Cuban-American there who doesn't have a clear understanding of salvation by faith in Christ alone. Please pray for Raul as the Lord deals with his heart.

Exhibit C: Working at a Christian school I am surrounded by Christ-centered conversations daily, particularly among the teachers at lunch-time. I am praying for more opportunities to encourage my fellow believers towards biblical womanhood.

So, I don't feel so bad afterall - I believe God is using this season of my life to show me that ministry doesn't have to be necessarily a paid/full-time position, but it should be something that characterizes my life and flows from what I do. I am grateful to the Lord for his faithful instruction and leading me to understanding this.

My new sweet baby - Jameson Andrew!

2008-10-10T21:53:00.003-04:00

And here's the boy ...

What do you think about my little new baby Jackson?
MakeMeBabies.com - What will your baby look like?

My new sweet baby - Hadasseh Addene!

2008-10-10T21:51:00.002-04:00

So according to this website, this is what James & I's little girl would look like. Not sure how accurate it is, but isn't she a cutie :)

What do you think about my little new baby Hadasseh?
MakeMeBabies.com - What will your baby look like?

One month later ...

2008-09-25T18:48:00.003-04:00

I can't believe I haven't posted in a month - geez.

1) Happy Birthday to my Sister, Sharon!

2) I am LOVING teaching 1st grade. God has blessed me with an incredibly sweet group of students - they are eager to learn, loads of fun, and sssoooo energetic - I LOVE it!

3) Life is good - thanks for stopping in :)

Trusting God in Transitions

2008-08-26T10:36:00.002-04:00

Last fall when I was preparing to graduate and knew James and I would be getting married the next Spring, I began sending out my resume to every school I found find contact info for in Louisville and nothing ... so when I was offered the full-time position at my current place of employment I gladly accepted.

Last Friday, I received a phone call from a school needing a first grade teacher. We met Friday afternoon, talked several times over the phone that weekend and met again last night. Viola! I am their new first grade teacher.

This position is such a blessing from the Lord in so many ways:

1. I will make there in 9 months what I make here all year. Which means even though they don't offer insurance, we'll be able to afford adding me to James' school policy.
2. I LOVE teaching and this is a job that will actually use my undergraduate degree.
3. I LOVE missions and this school is very missions-minded. They were begun my returned missions in 1924 and take 2 international trips each summer and do mission projects throughout the year. This will allow me to use my graduate degree!
4. The drive will be the same, so no extra gas expense.
5. The hours will be better - I'll be home by 3:30, 3:45 every afternoon verses 5:30, 5:45 - woo hoo!
6. Can we just even mention all the teacher holidays and Christmas breaks, Spring breaks - yeah :)

So for those of you who prayed so hard for me I thank you so much! Praise God who answers our prayers with exactly what we need!

Check out my new school.

Louisville

2008-08-20T15:56:00.002-04:00

"The city of Louisville, Kentucky is an odd metro-suburban mix of stark industry and fine thoroughbreds and rock and roll fevers. It's a place with no labels. It's not the South, it's not Chicago, and you don't think of it as you think of New York or LA. It has some Southern romanticism to it, but also a Northern progressivism, this weird urban island in the middle of the state of Kentucky that has always provided a fertile, often dark, bed. Louisville and the surrounding areas are the center of massive creativity and massive weirdness. The place has its flaws: You move away, but you're always going to come back."- --My Morning Jacket

Newlyweds - 3 Months!

2008-08-18T11:36:00.002-04:00

For our one month anniversary, I posted on 10 things I had learned about James in that previous month. Yesterday was our 3 month anniversary and as I reflect, I notice that God has taught me so much about myself, most of it is not pretty but I do have faith that He is working on me, using marriage for my good and his glory.

10. I am a domestic nerd. You know the term "domestic goddess" - yeah I will not claim to be one of those but; I am a domestic nerd. I make lists and calendars for everything! Presently there is an August calendar on the fridge with all the meals planned for the month AND I'm actually looking forward to planning for September.
9. According to James, I say certain words funny. Yeah, funny coming from the mountain man from WV. I can't recall the words right now, but I'll post on that later.
8. I have learned to enjoy Westerns. *Silence from the crowd* I know - crazy what you do for someone you love!
7. I have learned to like talking on the phone. James calls me randomly throughout the day. I have learned to enjoy and look forward to these little interruptions throughout the day.
6. I have no rhythm. So, I knew that before we got married, but James in his naive hope thought that perhaps I was being modest. Yeah right!
5. Deep down I really am a girl. I think I spent 29 years of my life being so independent, so self-reliant, that I'm almost denied being a girl. What I mean is, I was always trying to be tough - one in control. I'm learning how to lean on another - depend on him, which is strengthening my dependence on God. So all in all it's a very good thing :)
4. Apparently, I too snore and sometimes talk in my sleep. This, of course is according to James and I'll beleive it when I see documented proof!
3. I am a decent cook, sometimes - ha! With the exception of an undercooked pork loin and some burnt garlic bread, I've done pretty good so far, if I do say so myself.
2. I am very much loved. James loves me SOOO much - more than I ever thought a person could. He is always first to reconcile/forgive if we disagree. He constantly seeks ways to serve me and do little things for me. I am very loved!
1. I am much much more sinful than I had ever thought before. Yes, so some of you may be thinking, "yeah we knew that!" But seriously, living with another human 24/7, particularly in the close relationship of husband and wife, I have learned that my selfishness, stubborness, pride, tendencey towards self-reliance and independence, controlling nature, etc... run much deeper than I had ever imagined. I am thankful to God for pointing out to my sin and am trusting that He will continue to shape and mold me into the person he wants me to be!

Post about Nothing

2008-08-13T11:28:00.002-04:00

I really don't have anything to say ... sad huh? So here's some random things running through my head.

I wish our sad little rabbit ears picked up NBC so I could watch the Olympics ... oh well.
This week we're driving to South Point OH for James' aunt's birthday - fun times - I'm very excited. AND we got her a super cute gift :)
School starts next week for James ... so he'll then be super busy reading, studying, etc ... I really need to get on that reading list of my own.
I wish I could have gotten a teaching job this fall, but I'm trusting God to provide and making the best of my current job in the meantime.
I really like my new ESL student - she's very smart, eager to learn, and sweet.
I need a hair cut, badly.
I bought new shoes and some new shirts this past weekend - woo hoo!
Free Dessert night at Marks' Feed Store is great, except when you stuff dessert on top of an already full of BBQ belly, then it's not so great.

That's about all folks ...

Pray for Courtney

2008-08-11T09:07:00.002-04:00

Courtney's mom lost her battle with cancer on Saturday evening. While I grieve for Courtney's loss, I join her in rejoicing over her mother's faith in Christ and his salvation. Below is an email from Courtney announcing her mother's passing. The funeral is tomorrow, please remember her family in your prayers.

No guilt in life, no fear in death
This is the power of Christ in me
From life’s first cry to final breath
Jesus commands my destiny
No power of hell, no scheme of man
Can ever pluck me from his hands
Til he returns, or calls me home
Here in the power of Christ I’ll stand

Mom passed away August 9, 2008 at 7:00pm. She waited until after Tabetha returned from her graduation in Atlanta. I can only imagine what she is seeing now, but I know that she has heard the words “Well done, thy good and faithful servant.” She is laying her crowns at the feet of Jesus and He is showing her the mansion He built for her when He ascended into heaven. Mom is home and for this we rejoice.

The words above are from the song, “In Christ Alone” written by Stuart Townend and Keith Getty. It is one of my personal favorites and recently it has reminded me of Mom and her life. She lived in the power of Christ, with the knowledge that death had no hold on her. The power of Christ in her was to have no guilt in life, nor fear in death. Dad, Tabetha, David, Granny, Granddaddy, Uncle Paul, Aunt Ann, and I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that we will see Mom again. We will be reunited with her in Heaven and she is already experiencing what we all dream of. We rejoice that she is in Heaven. We also mourn the fact that we will never again have the joy of her presence here on Earth.

We already miss her dearly, and though we are comforted in our grounded Hope we are also saddened that this world has lost a truly wonderful person. Our prayer is that each of you will join us in worshipping our Father and Savior in eternity. Since we, as a family, first learned of Mom’s illness we trusted God had a perfect plan and that He was in complete control. My personal prayer is that you have been able to experience the peace and joy that Mom had in life. Please do not go another day without the assurance that you will spend eternity with God in Heaven. As we have learned, there are no promises of tomorrow.

On July 28, 2007 we had no knowledge of cancer. Mom had been given a clean bill of health in June and she had recently hiked a mountain. July 29, 2007 we learned that Mom had tumors in her brain and her prognosis was grim. If there is one thing that we can all learn from this fact, it is that our life is a “vapor” and there will come a day when we have to face our eternity. Will you be ready like Mom was? Do you have no guilt in life, no fear in death because you stand in the power of Christ?

Pray for Courtney and her mom

2008-08-06T09:22:00.002-04:00

Please pray for my friend, Courtney and her mom.

Courtney's mom was diagnosed with brain cancer last year and Courtney subsequently moved back home and has been her mother's primary care giver since then. It would appear that her mother's last days are coming and the Hospice workers have told them to "prepare".

Good News is that Courtney's mom is a believer - so please pray for comfort, as little pain as possible, and wonderful times with her family these last days. Pray for Courtney, her dad, her sister, brother-in-law, and nephew as they minister to her - ask that the Lord would give them strength and courage and be able to be there for her.

Check out their blog here.

If you want to be a Watermelon

2008-08-04T09:32:00.004-04:00

This Sunday, the youth came over for "National Watermelon Day"

Watermelon
Seed Spitting Contest

Steal the Watermelon

"Watermelon" Toss

Eating Contest

Group Pic

After the Watermelon Party, we went to visit A,
from our Sunday School class who is recovering from spine surgery.
We had a Watermelon Party in her hospital room :)

Up for the Challenge

2008-07-31T11:24:00.004-04:00

30 Day Husband-Encouragement Challenge.

So technically I'm on day three, but slightly behind on posting to brag about my sweet husband - oops!

Proverbs 31:11-12 "The heart of her husband safely trusts, so he will have no lack of gain. She does him good and not evil all the days of her life."

It is my prayer and desire to be this kind of wife. Sadly I can say that in our 2 1/2 months married, I haven't consistently done this. I think being 29 and having lived on my own for 7 years has made me obstinant in many areas - ha! Sadly it truly is no laughing matter as marriage calls you to put away any selfish desires or independent thinking and truly think/live for the two of you. So I am intentionally seeking ways to do him good, to build more trust, to encourage him in all his endeavors, and to be more gentle.

Galatians 5:13b "Through love serve one another"

James is a master at loving me through service. Whether it's small things like opening the door, or bigger things like fixing my car - he is always eager to do things for me.

I Corinthians 13:4 "Love suffers long and is kind."

Philippians 4:19 "And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus."

James is very considerate of my needs, usually quite sensitive. He tries to be proactive in doing things that will help me and is always willing to help when I ask him to.

Cusco

2008-07-31T07:00:00.001-04:00

Machu Picchu

2008-07-30T11:13:00.001-04:00

Peru Sneak Peak

2008-07-29T12:12:00.003-04:00

(click to enlarge)

More Peru Prayer Requests

2008-07-27T07:00:00.000-04:00

Pray that God will send other teams to minister and share the gospel with the people of Cuzco, Peru.

Praise God for the workd that he is doing among the people of Cuzco, Peru and the workd that is still to come.

Ask God to teach you ways to go, give, and share in mission opportunities in the future.

Pictures coming soon!

Peru Prayer Request #14

2008-07-26T07:00:00.000-04:00

The team is returning home! Pray for safe travel and opportunities for them to share about their trip.

48 hours to go

2008-07-25T12:05:00.002-04:00

In exactly 48 hours (hopefully) James will be home from Peru - yahoo!

I have to say that distance definitely makes the heart grow fonder, at least in my case! I have been terribly lonesome at home, even with keeping myself busy with cleaning and talking to friends on the phone - it's just not the same.

I do hope he's had a great time. I haven't heard from him since an email last weekend, but I know this week has been busy with ministry. Today he should be in Machu Picchu - I'm totally jealous! I'm looking forward to hearing all about the trip, what he's learned, and seeing how the Lord has used this time to grow him personally.

Thank you all so much for praying! Keep it up - when he returns, he has 2 weeks to finish all the assignments from the class and the assignments required for the Supervized Ministry Experience class - that equals one book review, three personal reflection journals, one ministry notebook, and any left over reading.

Peru Prayer Request #13

2008-07-25T07:00:00.000-04:00

Pray for the team as they prepare to travel home. Ask God for safety, patience, and rest.

New ESL Student

2008-07-24T08:30:00.002-04:00

So last night was my first lesson with my new ESL student, MG.

She is adorably sweet and her English ... totally rocks. Last night we did a simple English evaluation then spent the rest of the time talking about Louisville, answering some of her questions about life in the USA, etc... I must seriously buff up my lesson plans and think of ways to challenge her - seriously, her English is that good!

Pray for me as I seek to teach and minister to her. Right now she's quite lonely - only been here a month and has zero friends. So it's a perfect opportunity to befriend her and hopefully share the gospel with her on top of helping her improve her (already excellent) English skills.

Woot Woot! I'm excited :)

Peru Prayer Request #12

2008-07-24T07:00:00.000-04:00

Pray that God will strengthen and bless the church leaders and local believers and give them boldness in sharing his word.

Bookworm

2008-07-23T10:08:00.003-04:00

I've never been a reader - I've always loved books, but never could seem to finish one. All that changed once I started seminary as I forced to read books; actually finish them, I've really loved them.

Now that I've graduated and been out in the real world for 7 months, I've let my reading slack - sadness :(

James will start school in the fall I would like to help create an atmosphere condusive to studying for him. Therefore, I have decided to read again - if I'm reading that should motivate him to read and it will help me not to distract him with TV.

Our church has a women's book club and though I can't attend (due to teaching ESL) I thought it might be nice to following their monthly reading plan:

August - Biblical character
September - Women's Issues
October - Mystery/Adventure
November - Arts & Crafts
December - Biblical Commentary

Any book suggestions? Preferrably things that can be found at the local library as we'll be spending enough cash on his books for school. Thanks in advance!

Peru Prayer Request #11

2008-07-23T07:00:00.001-04:00

Pray for the health of the team. Ask God for wisdom and boldness in sharing his message with the lost of Cuzco.

Peru Prayer Request #10

2008-07-22T07:00:00.000-04:00

Ask God to prepare the hearts of those that they will meet in sharing his word through storying.

Tongue Twister

2008-07-21T14:33:00.002-04:00

Ok, this is random ...

Our pastor's name is Tom
Our education minister's name is Todd

I used to occasionally mix up their names by accident.

Well, our minister of music John and his family recently left to take a church in Connecticut so we have a new interim music minister and his name ...

TOG

Yep, so our staff now includes: Tom, Todd, and Tog

I think they did this on purpose :)

Peru Prayer Request #9

2008-07-21T07:00:00.000-04:00

Pray for the team as they go out to share through Chronological Bible Storying. Pray that they would not be nervous, but that they would be excited to share the hope found in our Savior.

Peru Prayer Request #8

2008-07-20T07:00:00.000-04:00

Pray for church services and church leaders. Ask God to bless their ministry among the people of Peru.

Peru Prayer Request #7

2008-07-19T07:00:00.000-04:00

Ask God to keep the team healthy and energized in order to effectively complete their tasks. Also pray for Dr. Sills as he leads the team. Ask God to bless the family members in the US and to keep them safe and healthy.

Phone Call

2008-07-18T14:37:00.002-04:00

Last night, James called from Peru. We only talked for 6 minutes as I have no idea how much receiving an international phone call on our cell phone will cost. But it was soooo good to hear his voice.

He's loving it in Peru, which makes me very happy as I loved it when I was there last summer! He's learning a lot, not only about Chronological Bible Storying, but also about personal holiness, sanctification, and the immense task that is before all Christians.

Next week, they begin going out into the villages to share their stories. They are in groups of three, with each group sharing three stories. They will tell the story in English and then it will be translated twice: first into spanish, then into quechuan. Pray for them as they go out.

Specific Prayer Requests:
One teammate in particular is having some health issues - so please pray for that person. Two other teammates are having some personality conflicts - so pray for them as well. Above all, pray for receptive hearts as they hear the stories of God.

Peru Prayer Request #6

2008-07-18T07:00:00.000-04:00

Pray that the light of the gospel will penetrate the darkness of false religion. Ask God to give the team opportunities to share his love and message of salvation.

While the cat's away ....

2008-07-17T15:37:00.002-04:00

.... the mice will play.

Well, that's the cliche at least. And I have to say that I have been keeping myself busy while James has been out of town. I've been helping out at my old roomie's VBS all this week, which has actually been a ton of fun - 5th graders are cool :)

On tap for this weekend - maybe a quick trip to Nashville, though with gas prices at $4.20/gallon, I'm reconsidering that idea. I may just stay home and clean and organize (which is desperately needed)

You know how most houses have a junk drawer - growing up, ours was in the kitchen ... well in our apartment the guest bedroom has become the junk room. Everything from random wedding gifts we're not sure where to put, to old clothes we no longer wear, to boxes and boxes and boxes of James' belongings. I seriously want to get this room clean and organized before he comes back. After all, we have friends coming in August that will need a place to stay :) So that's what's on tap for next week.

The first few nights he was gone, I had trouble sleeping. More trouble sleeping when he's away than when he's here and randomly talking in his sleep! Two nights this week I've fallen asleep in the living room in front of the TV, to wake up hours later with weird stuff on the set. I need James here to tell me to take my contacts out and go to bed! Oh and I haven't had a home-cooked meal this entire week - in fact I haven't even eaten at home once this entire week. Granted that's mainly b/c I'm up in Indiana at Colgate every night for VBS, but it has taught me that marriage has made me a healthier eater.

P.S. Today is our 2 month anniversary. I snuck a hand-made card in his luggage - I wonder if he's found it and will read it today :)

Peru Prayer Request #5

2008-07-17T07:00:00.000-04:00

Pray for wisdom, comfort, and blessings for the IMB missionaries in this region of the world. Ask God to bless their ministry and protect them as they share his love with the lost of Peru.

Peru Prayer Request #4

2008-07-16T07:00:00.000-04:00

Pray for the pople of Cuzco. Ask God to prepare their hearts to hear his story and the message of salvation.

So, since I have the evening free anyway ....

2008-07-15T14:56:00.001-04:00

I'm starting a new part-time job.

Two hours, two evenings a week I will teach ESL to a sweet lady from Mexico, who actually lives down the road from James and I. Hopefully I'll help her adjust to life here in Louisville and strengthen per proficiency in English.

It is my prayer that God will use this opportunity not only to help her, but to also improve my ESL teaching skills, to better my spanish, and for an opportunity to share the gospel.

I praise God for this opportunity not only to serve and learn, but to also make a little extra money for our monthly budget. Yay for his provision!

Peru Prayer Request #3

2008-07-15T07:00:00.000-04:00

Pray for Dr. Sills as he teaches the storying class. Pray also for the team that they will understand the significance of this class and apply it later in the trip.

Peru Prayer Request #2

2008-07-14T08:27:00.001-04:00

As the team arrives, ask God to help them to adjust quickly and to get the rest needed for the upcoming tasks.

Peru Prayer Request #1

2008-07-13T10:30:00.000-04:00

So, James left today for a two-week mission trip to Peru. The GCC at school created this prayer calendar and I wanted to share it with you.

The prayers for today are:

Pray for the safe travel and sensitiveity to the Holy Spirit as we encounter others. Pray that God will prepare the hearts of the people of Peru, to hear His word.

Team Members to Pray for:
Dr. Sills, Jim, Anthony, Bethany, Aaron, Rhonda, Lisa, Julie, David, Emily, Mike, Grant, Julie W., and James.

What I did today

2008-07-11T14:50:00.003-04:00

wore all black

created a cow mask from a paper plate

donned a "eat mor chikin" sign

GOT FREE CHIC-FIL-A for lunch!

And ... I even talked my boss at work into doing it too!

www.cowappreciationday.com

Happy Independence Day

2008-07-04T09:47:00.000-04:00

Today as we celebrate the freedom we enjoy in the USA - I am reminded that my true freedom comes from the freedom I have in my dear Savior, Jesus Christ.

John 8:30-36

As He was saying these things, many believed in Him. So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed Him, "If you continue in My word, you really are My disciples. You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

"We are descendants of Abraham," they answered Him, "and we have never been enslaved to anyone. How can You say, 'You will become free'?"

Jesus responded, " I assure you: Everyone who commits sin is a slave of sin. A slave does not remain in the household forever, but a son does remain forever. Therefore if the Son sets you free, you really will be free.

Newlyweds - 46 days - Things are looking up

2008-07-02T14:29:00.003-04:00

Things are turning around:

The auto shop called to say I had a busted brake line. Total cost for them fixing it would be $170. I was thinking "GREAT" but James was like "WHAT?" Apparently this is something James can fix and the part is only $40 so YAY for marrying a man who can work on cars!

Newlyweds - 46 days - Not so much a good day

2008-07-02T13:22:00.002-04:00

One of my co-workers at work has strep throat. Apparently another co-worker has been feeling ill for a few days and working anyway - yeah thanks. Last night I had a HUGE headache and a slight fever - no throat soreness, so maybe I'm in the clear?

This morning, the brakes on my car died. They'd been bad for a while, but I had ZERO brakes this morning when I was trying to leave for work. So, James brought me to work ... a non-sick co-worker is graciously driving me home and my sweet Honda is now sitting at Huestis' Auto Shop awaiting diagnosis. It is our prayer that it's not a serious thing, preferrably one that's cheap since we're poor!

Good News : James found his passport today. Yep, silly boy misplaced it in the whole wedding/moving thing and has been on a desperate hunt to find it as he departs for Peru in exactly 11 days!

Happy Birthday Mary

2008-07-01T07:00:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday to you

Happy Birthday dear Mary

Happy Birthday to you

In honor of Mary's birthday, here are 29 things we love about her:

1. She loves Jesus :)
2. She loves to laugh.
3. She loves her brother, James a ton!
4. In addition to loving him, she likes to pick on her brother, which makes me very happy.
5. She has a heart to serve others.
6. She loves Keith, her husband a lot.
7. She's a proud "Marine Daughter".
8. She desires to share the gospel with those around her.
9. She's as short as I am - sorry, Mary but that makes he love you all the more!
10. She has fabulous red hair - oo la la
11. She's a good friend.
12. She's thoughtful - like the sweet scrapbook she made for James & I for our wedding shower.
13. She reads my blog - look you're famous!
14. She loves her local church.
15. She's happy to be my new sister :)
16. She helped make the flowers for our wedding - which were gorgeous by the way.
17. She's a fantastic aunt to Devon.
18. She prays for us. (we pray for you too!)
19. She's excited about our future in missions.
20. She seems to truly enjoy life.
21. She's got mad Scene-It skills!
22. She writes me emails, which I adore.
23. She once drove 6 hours to be with her brother on Thanksgiving.
24. She has a great sense of humor.
25. She takes good care of her family - Proverbs 31 :)
26. She teaches the children at church to love Jesus.
27. She's been sweet to me ever since she first met me, even though I was nervous about meeting the family. Thanks for taking it easy on me :)
28. If she weren't my sister-in-law, I'd choose her to be my friend.
29. Today is her birthday and everyone deserves love on their b'day!!!

Mary - we hope today is great! We love you and miss you!
Come visit us ANYTIME!!!

Ahh, sibling love :)

Kentuckian

2008-06-30T15:14:00.002-04:00

Today, I officially became a Kentuckian! After an amazing time at the KY DMV - seriously, it was amazing - I am the owner of a shiny new KY Driver's License and Louisville Voter's Registration - all in under 15 minutes. Seriously, back home this would have taken at least an hour - I'm quite impressed with the KY DMV.

I'm kinda sad to have given up my TN-DL...but I still bleed Orange - Go Vols :)

Next on the agenda - switching all my bank stuff over to my new married last name - ohh fun times :)

Looking Forward

2008-06-27T15:19:00.004-04:00

What's up with us this weekend:

Friday - Hanging with our Cuban friends and watching The Incredibles or Cars - not sure which one yet :)

Saturday - James has to work and Melissa hopes to sleep, rest, get ready for Sunday, do nothing - ha!

Sunday - after church, we're driving to Mt. Sterling KY to meet James' family for a quick visit before Mary's b'day, James' b'day and his departure to Peru.

Fun Times!

Living God's unshakeable truth at Outrigger Island

Free Will! (In Central Park)

2008-06-26T08:19:00.006-04:00

The Kentucky Shakespeare Festival is presenting various plays of Shakespeare's free this summer ... so the other night James and I went to see Julius Caesar. It was quite good - they condensed it a bit and it kinda seemed to have an Asian theme in the costuming and music, but nonetheless it was great!

Check out these highlights:

The stage at the ampitheatre in Central Park

Portia begging Brutus to tell her what's going on

*blurry* Caesar
The attack!
"Et tu Brute?"

Newlyweds - 39 days

2008-06-25T10:35:00.002-04:00

The other night as we slept :

James: "How big is the cave?"

Melissa: (startled awake) "Huh? What?"

James: "How big is the cave? Is it big?"

Melissa: "What are you talking about? What cave?"

James: "It has to be big because he and his whole family stayed there once."

Melissa "Yeah, okay."

I think next time he talks in his sleep, I'm going to play along with the conversation ....

Newlyweds - 37 days

2008-06-23T09:25:00.002-04:00

Random Update Time:

I'm seriously sleepy this morning. It's VBS week at church and last night, I had the blessing of teaching 13 2 & 3 year olds about God taking care of people just as he took care of the Israelites leaving Egypt. Who knew toddlers were so exhausting? I don't think any of them sat longer than 2 minutes all evening ... whew! There are some other wonderful teachers in the room - I'm amazed at how Tara interacts with the children - how caring she is and persistent in telling them about God while they play. Being a mom of 3 young girls herself, she is a role model to emulate in this area, I do believe.

James has been working with the Bluegrass Getaway Vacations for about 2 weeks now. He seems to really enjoy it, his coworkers are nice and they have a lot of fun. Last week, his boss encouraged him to enter the Watermelon Eating Contest while at the Bullit Co. Fair and may I proudly announce that my husband came in 3rd place - Good Job Honey! I can't believe he gets paid to do this-Ha! The one big bummer of this job is the hours - 5-10pm. Which means that when I get home at 5:30, I don't see him until 10:30 or so -- so we eat late, end up staying up too late then I'm sleepy at 6:30 when it's rise & shine Melissa, time for work! But it's just for the summer and God is so faithful to provide this extra income that we really shouldn't complain.

James has taught the Middle School Boys two weeks now and that seems to be progressing nicely. I really enjoy the fact that we get to study our lessons together and collaborate on ideas and such. We've been teaching them together as he's still learning names, etc...

Prayer Requests:
Pray for two of our youth who are moving at the end of this month - one to Cleveland, OH (sad to say goodbye) and one to another home here in Louisville due to her parents' divorce. This same youth whose parents are divorcing is also facing surgery in July for her back - she was in gymnastics for years and has several vertebrates that are out of whack so they are putting a rod in her back - ouch!

Keep praying for Sarah as she and her family grieve the loss of her father.

Pray for Mrs. Kay as she's at Super Summer with her youth this week. She's never been to a camp like this, so she's kinda nervous. Also, remember Mr. Marvin as he's home-alone while she's away.

Still about $300 away for James' Peru trip - we're trusting God to provide :)

Check back in tomorrow - I hope to have exciting VBS pics!

That's Me!

2008-06-20T07:08:00.002-04:00

Ok, so I was bored and took a personality test online. Check it out, sounds surprisingly accurate ...

ESFJ: The Helper

ESFJs are helpful people who place a high value on harmony. Paying close attention to people's needs and wants, they work well with others to complete tasks in a timely and accurate way. ESFJs follow through on their commitments. They like closure and prefer structured, organized situations in which warmth and compassion are shown. They contribute to others by anticipating their day-to-day concerns and handling them with warmth and efficiency. ESFJs are at their best in organizing people to get a job done.

Living
ESFJ children want life to be uncomplicated, secure, harmonious and structured. They are usually responsible, reliable, and cooperative. They thrive in situations in which there is consistency and personal attention. They enjoy the acceptance of others and will work hard to gain that acceptance. ESFJ children are concerned about doing the right things and pleasing their elders.
ESFJs follow the rules and tend to accept them as fair and reasonable. They admire people and teachers who are warm, friendly, and concerned. They are concerned about the feelings of others and like to help out when possible. They begin early to assume responsibility for the welfare of others. They believe it is necessary to give as well as to receive and will often volunteer their time and talents in service organizations.
ESFJs radiate warmth and fellowship, and generally fit in well with their classmates. They value the traditional things that teenagers do and may be involved in various clubs and teams. Their friends often turn to them because of their listening ear and helpful nature.
Often the lives of ESFJs follow a traditional pattern. In adult life, ESFJs take their parent, spouse, employee, or community volunteer roles seriously and are committed to them. They are sensitive to the needs to those around them, sometimes more attuned to others' needs than their own. They gain the respect of others because of their helpfulness, pleasantness, and ability to get things done. They carry out their commitments and are often in charge of events. Mature ESFJs often structure both their work and personal lives so that they can meet the needs of others.

Learning and Working
ESFJs learn best in structured situations where they know what they can expect. They like to schedule their learning projects so that they can plan ahead to complete their lessons. They become uncomfortable with continuous interruptions and changes when they are trying to finish what they have started. Even more importantly, however, they want to like the person who teaches them. The teacher-student relationship is helpful to them in doing their best. When there is disharmony in the classroom, it interrupts their learning process. When their work is criticised, even constructively, ESFJs may feel demoralized until they get it right and the teacher acknowledges this. Because they tend to personalize the feedback of their teachers, it is important for them to know teachers' expectations so that they can work to meet them.
Learning tends to be a personal experience for ESFJs. This attitue, combined with their ability to follow through and meet deadlines, results in a conscientious and effective student. ESFJs often enjoy studies about people and their well-being, and are usually less interested in theoretical and abstract subject matters. They like active learning activities such as field trips, experiments and group projects that get them personally involved with others.
At work, ESFJs contribute their ability to cooperate with others and to complete tasks in a timely and accurate way. They respect rules and authority, and handle daily operations efficiently. They tend to be well informed and up-to-date on organizational actions that matter to people. They do what they can to make sure that personal relationships are running smoothly. Because they pay close attention to people's needs and wants, they are often involved in work activities that meet people's practical, day-to-day desires.
ESFJs prefer occupations that allow them to provide direct and personal, yet practical, help to others. Occupations that call for organization and goal direction appeal to them. They are especially careful not to waste time or resources; to do so would go against their nature.
Some occupations are particularly appealing to ESFJs: childcare worker, dental assistant, elementary school teacher, home economist, nurse, office manager, radiological technologist, receptionist and secretary, religious educator, speech pathologist, and other occupations that allow them to help others and serve their values directly.

Loving
For the ESFJ, love means warmth and commitment. When ESFJs first fall in love, they show this warmth and concern for their partner in many tangible ways. They will send cards, notes, flowers, special gifts, and other mementos of their affection. If the partner casually mentions a desire for a specific thing, they will try to find just that thing. Once committed in a relationship, ESFJs tend to stay with it even when there is inconvenience to them and perhaps longer than may be healthy. They are able to bring out the best in their partners, even though it may mean putting their own needs second.
Because ESFJs are caring individuals, they expect to give and receive in their relationships. Because others may not be as thoughtful as the ESFJ, it is a possible source of disappointment to them if they expect the same awareness and caring on the part of the partner. Being practical and realistic, they may not always like effusive shows of affection and prefer moderation instead. ESFJs may be more loyal to the relationship or to the institution of marriage than to the person. ESFJs may take the end of the relationship as a personal failure.
ESFJs, when scorned, hurt all over and may need to take time to get over the relationship before pursuing a new one. They may too easily and incorrectly blame themselves for the unfavourable outcome and recall instances when perhaps they were not as giving as they might have been. However, ESFJs' standards for giving in a relationship are likely to be above those of some other types. At their worst when scorned, ESFJs can become spiteful and critical of the partner. Because ESFJs are keenly sensitive to others and are tuned in to emotional needs, they really know how to hurt a person in the rare instances when they choose to do so.

Newlyweds - 33 days

2008-06-19T11:09:00.002-04:00

Now that I am an old married woman, I'm becoming domesticated.

Gone are the evenings when a frozen waffle and handful of M&Ms are considered dinner! In an effort to be a good wife - to keep a clean home, cook good food, etc... I've found blogs that have aided in my sanctification in striving to be a godly wife.

Here are a list of links I've found useful. I thought I'd share them with you - they are each chock full of useful information, time saving tips, etc....

Girl Talk Blog - These girls talk about everything! From recipes to schedules to encouraging your husband ...
The Perfect Pantry - cool cooking sight - it's inspired me to be more creative and organized in the kitchen.
Femina - this lady is so wise and has great insights on being a wife, cooking, children, etc...
Revive our Hearts - I heart Nancy Leigh DeMoss! Here daily telecasts are quite encouraging - right now she's finishing up the book of Esther - encouraging women to be God's woman in God's timing - to remember that God is in control of EVERYTHING! We all need to be reminded of that from time to time.
101 Cookbooks - Self-explanatory!

If you've got some sites that have been helpful to you - feel free to comment below and share the love!

One more Month Anniversray Post

2008-06-17T11:34:00.002-04:00

I thought it would be fun to list some interesting things (10 to be exact) that I've learned about James in our first month of marriage:

1. He talks in his sleep - A LOT!

I was originally worried that his snoring would keep me awake, but apparently he only snores when he's sick (Thank Jesus!) BUT...the boys talks, randomly in his sleep. Weird stuff too!

One day he asked me what I was doing with those plants. "What plants?" I asked half-asleep. "Huh, what?" he responded "You asked me what I was doing with the plants - what are you talking about?" at this point I was awake and irritated as it was an ungodly hour "I don't know" he said then fell back to sleep.

Also randomly in the middle of the night he'll tell me he loves me -- though it wakes me up which annoys me, I love it!

2. He's happy when he wakes up.

I am usually like "Ugh" when I get up out of bed and he's like "Good Morning, I love you." At first this annoyed me because it's like 6:00 AM - it is NOT "good" morning at 6:00 am, but I've grown to enjoy his chipperness.

3. He folds his socks funny.

It's actually not a fold, but more like a knot. He ties his two socks together - strange!

4. Cereal does not qualify as a good breakfast for him.

For the girl who rarely even eats breakfast (though I LOVE breakfast food), I've learned to serve him by preparing an actual breakfast on Saturdays - not simply a bowl of cereal. Last week - chocolate chip (well, acutally Hershey Kisses) pancakes and bacon - yummy :)

5. He can make the bed, but has yet to master putting the seat down.

In my effort to civilize the boy, I believe I may have possibly trained him into making the bed each day - been a week so far :) The toilet seat - a whole 'nother battle.

6. He is meticulous!

I thought I already knew this about him, but now that we actually live together and see each other every day, I have realized that I didn't know the half of it! Putting our apartment together, organizing, cleaning, hanging stuff on the wall, etc...the boy is so detail-oriented when it comes to "fix-it" kinda stuff. I'm more of the "Oh this'll do OK" girl but he makes sure it's done perfectly right, even if it takes what I think is FOREVER. I am grateful for his attention to detail - it helps balance out my work fast, faster, fastest tendencey.

7. He doesn't know how to turn off the smoke detector

Confession - yes, I have set off the smoke detector with my cooking. But funny part is that James couldn't get it to go off. No matter how he pushed and prodded the thing -- BBBBEEEEEEPPPP it continued to go! I had to go get my step ladder and do it myself - hee hee! I think he's figured it out now, though.

8. He doesn't like fresh tomatoes, but will eat stewed tomatoes.

A tomatoe is a tomatoe right? What's the difference?

9. He appreciates good food.

When I do cook a good meal - which surprisingly happens quite frequently - he is sure to verbally express how much he likes it. From "hmmm" to "yumm" to "this is good" - I know when the food is good. On the flip side, silence while eating usually means it's not the best - oops!

10. He is a better husband that I had originally imaged he would be.

He is patient and kind towards me, particularly when I've had a stressful day at work. He is supportive, particularly in my search for a different job. He works hard, as evidenced when he comes home at 10pm sweaty from working that evening. He hugs me a lot, which makes me happy. He desires to serve others and is always willing to lend a hand. He prays with me at night and forgives me when I fall asleep as he prays - oops! He helps me study for my Sunday School lesson and brings out insights I hadn't thought of (BTW - he's starting to teach the Middle School boys so we'll get to minister together some more - yahoo!) He likes my dad which is an accomplishment on its own - he treats him with a great amount of respect and listens to him even when it's the same story we heard last time we visited. He's great!

Newlyweds - 1 Month!

2008-06-17T09:51:00.005-04:00

Happy 1 Month Anniversary to us!

Here's some pics of things we done, places we've been, stuff we've seen in the past 30 days of matrimony:

Dinner out :)

Our church officially signed a covenant with the hispanic mission - woo hoo!

WARNING: James without a shirt!

James working diligently to put together a bookcase. Apparently working without a shirt on makes this easier?

He looks like he's naked, but trust me he's not.

Using one of the shelve supports as an oar as he's in the bookcase boat.

Silly boy!

Before we jetted off on our honeymoon,
we hit up NashVegas for my neice's high school graduation.

Angela getting her diploma.

Angela with her parents, my sis & bro-in-law

Angela & her boyfriend, Patrick - isn't he a cutie?

Angela & Andrew: My niece and nephew are BEAUTIFUL/HANDSOME and SMART.
Can you tell I'm the proud aunt?

CONGRATULATIONS ANGELA!

UTK Class of 2012

The Earth Keepers

2008-06-17T08:25:00.000-04:00

My step-mom has a blog.

She's big into the environmental movement and taking seriously the cultural commandment of God to be a good steward of our planet. The blog is pretty informative - with tips on how to reduce energy, waste, care for our planet and save money while doing it!

Urgent Prayer Request

2008-06-16T10:12:00.002-04:00

Please pray for my dear sweet friend and former roomie, Sarah. Her father passed away this weekend unexpectantly. This follows just one day after the loss of her aunt - so needless to say this will be a trying time for their family.

Specifically pray for:
-comfort & peace
-safety as they travel to Oklahoma for the funeral and back
-favor with the Greek teacher as Sarah will most likely miss the next two weeks of class
-favor with various life insurance people, social security department, banks, etc...as Sarah and her mom begin the task of informing everyone and getting the finances in order.

Newlyweds - 27 days

2008-06-13T08:23:00.002-04:00

Just a few random updates/prayer requests:

1. James begins his job at the fair tonight - pray that he does well and holds up in this crazy heat!
2. Interview on Monday - good job, great pay, ok hours.
3. Driving to Nash-Vegas Sunday to see my dad for Father's Day - hope that goes well.
4. Cicada in my car is dead, at least I think so - I haven't seen or heard him...now the recovery mission begins.
5. We had a meeting last night for James' trip to Peru - I'm totally jealous that I'm not going to get to go....anyone got 2K and wanna send me??
6. Apartment is a disaster zone - that's what I'm be doing after ESL tonight, while James is at work.

Yeah, I think that's about it ... ta ta for now.

Driving with Open Window + Cicada Season = Scary drive home

2008-06-12T10:43:00.002-04:00

If you were in L'ville right now you'd hear the cicada song - kind of a chirping, buzzing thing. Plus, you'd see the trees alive with them crawling all over the branches and see them flying clumsily throughout the sky. Normally, I don't mind them. Actually, I think they're kinda cool - it's neat to see something God created that only appears every 17 years or so. However, yesterday I had a close encounter with a cicada.

Let me set the scene:

In an effort to conserve on gas ($4.00/gallon) I often drive home from work with my windows down so I don't have to cut on the AC. When I do this, I take the scenic way home straight down Shelbyville Rd as to avoid my hair coming a rats nest if I were driving with windows down on the interstate. Normally, it's an enjoyable time - me, the radio blasting, wind in my face, etc...

As I was sitting at a red light, a cicada decided to fly straight into my car. It hit me on my left arm. Startling me, I screamed then looked down to see an upside-down cicada on my lap. Not thinking, I swatted the thing and it landed between my seat and the car door. Opening the door, I was hoping to gently (well, maybe not so gently) scoot it out the car. But as you would know, the light changed and I had to drive on. "Not a problem," I thought "I'll swat him out at the next light (less than 50 yards away)". Well by the time I got to the next, which literally couldn't have been more than 2 minutes, that little booger had moved. Now I had a live cicada loose in my car. I wanted to keep the windows down in case he flew out but now everytime my hair move and swiped across my neck or shoulder, I was cringing thinking it was that awful bug.

Then, I began hearing his song. "Where is he?" I kept thinking - checking my rear view to see if I could see him coming up to attack. I did eventually find him - in the back dash.

Apparently they don't teach anything about the properties of glass or cars in cicada school. The poor thing was now screaming his song and futily fluttering against the back window trying to escape - he could see the outdoors, but just couldn't get there. Exhausted, he would momentarily stop and sit on the back speakers and pitifully chirp before trying again.

I drove all the way home - a good thirty minute drive - with my stow-a-way staring at me as I stared at him in the rear view mirror. When I got home, I tried to get him out, but scared, he kept flying - not out the windows mind you, but under the seats, to the front dash. Eventually, I gave up and went in. Hopefully in the night he found freedom through the crack in the window I left for him.

So, in the future know that driving with your windows down in cicada season is not the best idea unless one wants a close encounter with the little things!

Newlyweds - 25 days

2008-06-11T09:59:00.002-04:00

I came home yesterday from work to a sweet surprise.

My dear husband was cooking dinner ... not only that, but he had also picked some flowers for me and had picked up around the apartment.

We had baked tilapia - yummy! Then afterwards, he rushed me out the door for another "surprise". We went to see Nim's Island at the dollar theatre. I had wanted to see it for a while and though it wasn't as good as I had expected, it was the dollar theatre and it was a sweet surprise nonetheless.

Newlyweds - 24 days

2008-06-10T13:45:00.002-04:00

Yay for our God who provides!

You'll remember from last week, our excitment then frustration at the security job offer. Well on Monday, the security place offered James a position at the airport. Slightly more money, but not as good hours and well, it's the airport, which means the risk of actually needing security assistance is higher than our quiet campus.

However, over the weekend while at church, James and Steve started talking and Steve told him about a job he works at during the summers - handing out info on vacations to people at various county fairs, Six Flags - KY Kingdom, Bats games, etc... Pays the same per hour as the security job, with the opportunity to make extra money if you get people to sign up. The technical title is "lead generator".

He had an interview this afternoon and is planning on taking that job over the security job. It'll be a more flexible hours, he'll get to work outside (which James loves as long as he remembers his allergies pills), and he'll get passes to go to the fairs, games, etc... how fun!

Thank you for your prayers! If you would, keep me in your prayers as I have an interview for a teaching position this week ... I'll keep you posted.

Honeymoon Pictures

2008-06-10T08:41:00.007-04:00

James and I wisely decided to go on a honeymoon a week after our big day. This allowed us to rest a bit and get some stuff put away at the apartment so we could enjoy being away without thinking about all the stuff to do at home. We spent three days in Northern KY/Cincinnati.

We stayed at the First Farm Inn - and had a great time! We fished. Well, James fished as he caught like half a dozen fishies, not sure what I did could be defined as fishing, but I did catch one! We caught a Reds game. We went to the Creation Museum, the Krohn Conservatory at Eden Park and saw the Butterfly Show. Then before we left for home, we went horseback riding , which I loved!

Creation Museum Highlights:

The Apostle Paul
Adam & Eve, note the strategic placement of hair - ha!

YIKES!

First Farm Inn

James and the house dog, Fluffy!

They became fast friends - Fluffy followed him everywhere! The main house - beautiful, isn't it?!
Fishing!
I love hammocks!
I LOVED being out in the country, made me miss home!

Krohn Conservatory

Now, I love butterflies,
but if this monster flew towards me, I'd be scared -
it was as big as James' hand!

Reds Game

Horseback Riding

Not this kind, silly - though we did have fun on the "horse swing" while we waited for Mrs Jen to go round up the horses from the other side of the pasture.
Me & Sage - please ignore the hat hair on my part! Who knew riding caps would make your head sweat that much! Sage was a great horse! I got him up to a canter, which is faster than a trot - it was great!
James & Sam. Sam was one ornery horse. Mrs Jen put James on him because she said he usually did better with guys, but not so much with James. James would give him the "walk" command and Sam would literally look at him then start eating grass - ha!
James doing carrot stretches with Sam.

Thanks for popping in and we'll more updates soon!

Wedding Night Pictures

2008-06-10T08:31:00.003-04:00

Our first two nights as a married couple were spent at the Inn at Woodhaven.

It was great to have such a relaxing couple of days following all the wedding hub-bub.

Enjoy these highlights:

The main house

Our room, the Cupla Room

Our room Standing under the arch outside

Newlyweds - 23 days

2008-06-09T10:28:00.003-04:00

Wedding pictures are up!

Billy Grubbs Studio did an excellent job! I've never claimed to be photogenic, but somehow Billy made me look less goofy, which is typically how I appear in photographs - ha! Email me for the password, if you want to peruse the snapshots.

Also - congrats to my friend Stefanie for being accepted into law school. Yahoo! Good job Stef! We'll be praying for you as you juggle being a wife, a mom and a law school student this fall! I'm proud of you.

Newlyweds - 20 days

2008-06-06T14:16:00.004-04:00

::UPDATE:: Small snafu, James arrived at the campus for duty and was informed by the supervisor that they won't accept students as security guards...so, he's called the agency to see if there is another assignment. Small snag in the process, but I am confident God will provide. And maybe this different assignment will be better hours and better pay :) We'll keep you posted.

Praise! James got a summer job. He'll actually be working security on campus!

We are very excited and this is an answer to much prayer!
-It will help provide for us financially
-It will help us pay down his student loans, making overseas service in a few years a better reality
-The location is ideal on our campus:
-Less than 2 miles away, gas expenses will be low
-Our campus is so safe, and now that it's summer, it'll be basically dead with half the students gone. this way I won't have to worry as I would if he were at a different, dangerous location.
-They've agreed that it's OK for him to be off the 2 weeks for Peru!
-If he likes the job and continues in the fall, he'll be able to take more day classes, making graduation closer.

The only downer, it's second shift, 3pm-11pm so with me working 8am-5pm, I be alone in the afternoons. Now, I realize second shift is much better than third shift, so trust me when I say I am counting my blessings there. I guess I was hoping for a 7am-3pm shift ... oh well. This will allow me to get housework done while he's at work and it's not that hard to stay up until 11. I could always break up my sleeping into two 4 hours blocks, 7-11 and 3-7.

Please continue to keep us in your prayers!

And God will generously provide all you need - 2 Corinthians 9:8

Newlyweds - 19 days

2008-06-05T14:03:00.000-04:00

I'm smart ... see!!!

You paid attention during 86% of high school!

85-100% You must be an autodidact, because American high schools don't get scores that high! Good show, old chap!

Do you deserve your high school diploma?
Create a Quiz

Newlyweds - 17 days

2008-06-03T11:24:00.003-04:00

And we're back ...

The honeymoon in Cincinnati was GREAT! I love Love LOVE horseback riding. Seriously, if you live in the L'ville area and have a horse (which considering this is Derby City shouldn't be hard to find) I want to be your friend!

Now I'm back at work ... which stinks because James is home (seriously working on trying to NOT be jealous of this situation). He's busy assembling our new bookshelves and cabinet and hopefully clearing out our junky guest bedroom and cleaning/organizing a bit. Our place is a disaster zone and I can't function in such a mess.

On another note, we have spiders. I have killed, well actually I have screamed then watched James kill, probably about a dozen spiders since we moved in there. The courtyard is quite wooded, so it's expected that spiders would make their way in, but this is weirding me out! Of course, with as messy as things are right now, I'm not about to call the manager to send out exterminator, he would be appalled for sure! I guess this is preparation for the mission field, spiders are everywhere I suppose, except Siberia ... hmmm, that sounds good to me!

I'll post pictures of our honeymoon soon, well as soon as I find my camera cable in our big ole' apartment mess!

Newlyweds - 6 days

2008-05-23T14:28:00.002-04:00

This will be my last post for about a week or so, as James & I don't have internet at home so my only opportunity for posting is while bored at work - ha!

The next time you hear from me, we will have been married for 17 days-wow and we will have hopefully had a wonderful honeymoon in Cincinnati and be completely finished with moving James out of his on-campus apartment. Hopefully, our wedding pics will be up and I'll be able to link to those as well.

In the meantime, please pray for us as we are embarking on a whole new life together. Specific prayer requests:

-Safety while traveling- to Nashville and back and then to Cincinnati and back
-Energy to clean, clean, clean - we gotta get his apartment completely empty before we leave for Cincinnati and hopefully get ours organized and settled.
-Summer job for James-subbing is glorious for while in school, but stinks once summer rolls around and school is out. James has had a couple of opportunities bu the doors have closed on those jobs - please pray for us as we seek God to open doors for temp/summer employment.
-Peru! James will be leaving for Peru in about 9 weeks or so. We still need to raise about $500 and he needs shots, packing stuff, etc..etc.. Plus we'll be apart for the two weeks he'll be gone which makes me sad just thinking about it.
-Continue to pray for our ministry at PBC and that we'll think of new fresh ideas there.

Love y'all! See you in a week or so!

Pray for the Chapman Family

2008-05-22T14:35:00.003-04:00

The youngest daughter of Steven Curtis Chapman, a contemporary Christian artist, was killed yesterday when she was accidentally hit by the SUV her teenaged brother was driving. My heart goes out to the Chapman family in particular the brother who is surely feeling much guilt and responsibility. Please pray for their family, that they will lean on Christ during this difficult time. Read the story here.

As I've read this story on other news websites, some have comments enabled and have been shocked and disturbed to see many comments such as "Where is his God now" and the such. Tragic events as these, do cause us to stop and think about the cause of evil and suffering in the world and how that reconciles with God being perfect and good. Check out John Piper's "Where is God" sermon for more answers on the sovereignty and supremacy of God in all things.

I lift up my eyes to the hills.

From where does my help come?

My help comes from the LORD,

who made heaven and earth.

He will not let your foot be moved;

he who keeps you will not slumber.

Behold, he who keeps Israel

will neither slumber nor sleep.

The LORD is your keeper;

the LORD is your shade on your right hand.

The sun shall not strike you by day,

nor the moon by night.

The LORD will keep you from all evil;

he will keep your life.

The LORD will keep

your going out and your coming in

from this time forth and forever.

Psalm 121 ESV

Newlyweds - 5 days

2008-05-22T12:15:00.002-04:00

I absolutely love my husband!

Why?
He is patient with me.
He is kind to me.
He tells me I'm beautiful and reiterates it again when I joke that he needs to get his eyes checked.
He prays with me at night.
He reads to me from our little "Couple Devotion" book.
He makes me laugh, like last night, when we "couch danced" to the tunes on American Idol.
He loves the Lord more than me.

More specific ways he has blessed me this week:

Monday, he brought me flowers - Irises!
Tuesday, he made up the bed all by himself, tried desperately to buy this double papasan chair thing-which didn't pan out, but the thought was sweet, and watched American Idol with me, though he really could care less.
Wednesday, he watched the finale of American Idol with me, though he really really could care less. He did my laundry for me - even folding/hanging everything up too!
Tonight, we're watching LOST together, it is my secret plan to get him addicted ... mmuuuaahh!!

Newlyweds - 4 days

2008-05-21T13:39:00.004-04:00

Our life thus far:

-Wedding
-Wedding Night at the Inn at Woodhaven
-Several Wal-mart runs to get stuff
-Rescue bird from dryer vent at Sarah & Rachel's apartment
-Begin writing scores of thank you cards
-Melissa's becoming domestic
-James being Melissa's hero and killing a nasty ugly spider in the living room

Looking forward to:
-Traveling to Nashville for Angela's Graduation on Sunday
-Honeymoon at First Farm Inn
-Seeing Cincinnati
-Sleeping in, Organizing stuff, Cleaning out James' old apartment, helping clean at my old apartment

The joys of married life :)

Newlyweds - 3 days

2008-05-20T13:13:00.001-04:00

Yahoo - we're married ... more details later :)

3 days ... Engagement Pics

2008-05-14T08:45:00.003-04:00

BIG thank you to Rachel & Sarah for taking the pictures - We Love You!

4 Days ... Official

2008-05-13T09:19:00.002-04:00

James and I stopped by the County Clerk yesterday when I got off work and got our marriage license. One thoroughly confusing application (seriously I have a Master's Degree and I had to ask questions), a quick 10 minute wait and $35.50 later, we're licensed to wed!

It's strange how seeing our names on the document suddenly makes it feel official. I mean, we created and sent out 200 invitations, paid lots of money to different people, I have a dress, he has a tux but it became all the more real to me yesterday holding that form. It's a cool feeling - excitement mixed with anxiousness.

Afterwards, we went to Mark's Feed Store for some good ole' BBQ. Monday's are "Free Dessert Days" so after stuffing my face with BBQ chicken, I squeezed in some hot fudge Sundae ... I do have a dress I must fit into in 4 short days. Possibly not my smartest idea, but it was YUUUMMMMYYYY!

5 days ...

2008-05-12T11:29:00.003-04:00

I stopped by Nanz & Kraft this morning to finalize the floral options.

Red Roses and Red Tulips with Green Hypernicum, Italian Fresca and Lemon Leaves as filler-should be simple yet pretty. God has graciously provided James' sister Mary and my sweet friend Maryann who both worked in floral shops to arrange the flowers, create the corsages and boutineers and tie the hand-tied bouquets.

Later today, James and I are going to proof and finalize the program so we can get those puppies printed, folded and ribbon-tied by Thursday.

Also on the agenda is finalizing our food order for the reception ... I'm hungry already!

8 Days ... Apartment 315

2008-05-09T08:13:00.006-04:00

Here's a glimpse into what will be James and I's apartment.

The front door ... well, it's an apartment so it's the only door.
Check it out, the mail box is right next to the door

The dining room (yikes, bare wall needs color!)
Mr. Silver likes his new spot in the dining room-he can see all the action.

The living room from Mr. Silver's view in the dining room.
(Yikes again - bare wall needs color!)

The living room again - looks better from this view.

The kitchen - LOVE the Peru wall hanging :)

Mr. Silver's view of the kitchen ... small, yes but a great improvement from Fuller. (Please ignore the trash bag, need to get a trash can soon!)

My bedroom for the next 8 days, then I have to share it with a boy!

The beautiful paper lantern James picked out at World Market for our bedroom - matches the bedspread perfect!

The beautiful bedspread from dear sweet, Jenn-Jenn.

Our cool B&W Bathroom - very tiny btw.

The bathroom again ... life-saving space saver thing.

Cute stackable washer/dryer.
They hold only minuscle loads, but it beats going to the landromat!

Our pet bird, "Feather" lives here. She's a morning dove. I looked for her all evening, but she must have been out running errands.

The view out our door.

So that's our apartment. Please come visit anytime - our door is always open. It's a stepdown from 4208 with Sarah and Rachel, but my house at home is a step down from that amazing apartment! I think we'll like it here. There are several other seminary families that live here, lots of kids, and a small pool.

So this is where we'll hopefully spend the next 2-3 years before we head overseas, Lord willing. Please pray for us as we begin our lives together, that we will be focuses on each other and not our own selfish wants/desires and that God will use our marriage for his glory and to minister to and encourage others.

9 Days ... Honeymoon

2008-05-08T10:12:00.001-04:00

Here's the scoop on the honeymoon :)

We're doing a kinda split-honeymoon. We're spending 2 night just after the wedding at a very nice B&B here in town. Then James and I are back to work for the rest of the week, as we are poor seminary students and have rent to pay June 1st! :)

That following weekend, we'll head to Nashville for my neice's high school graduation. It'll be a fun weekend celebration with family and good food -- being in Nashville is always so good for his TN girl :)

Then the week of Memorial Day, we're heading to Cincinnati, OH for our "official" honeymoon. We're staying at this lovely B&B just outside Cincinnati in Burlington, KY. It's an old farm house with only two guest rooms. There are horses (we're signed up for horse-riding lessons on Friday), two large ponds for fishing (James is very excited) there are like 10 cats and a dog to pet (I'm very excited) ... we'll be in heaven in this small-town life.

The best part is just 20 minutes away is Cincinnati where we'll venture for a Reds game, the Art Museum, the Zoo, Creation Museum and various parks. I'm quite excited!

Evaluation

2008-05-06T12:42:00.008-04:00

I ran across this article today while on lunch break at work.

It's a convicting review of the "Christian subculture". It's a wonderful non-Christian perspective on the sad state of so-called Christian art and media which is often just a cheap imitation of the secular version and how it has led to an "adolescent theology" where Jesus' sacrifice is simply referred to as "cool" rather than held in the awe that he deserves.

While reading it, I was reminded of D.Webb's song "T-shirt"

they'll know us by the t-shirts that we wear

they'll know us by the way we point and stare

at anyone whose sin looks worse than ours

who cannot hide the scars of this curse that we all bare

they'll know us by our picket lines and signs

they'll know us by the pride we hide behind

like anyone on earth is living right

and isn't that why Jesus died

not to make us think we're right

they'll know us by reasons we divide

and how we can't seem to unify

because we've gotta sing songs a certain style

or we'll walk right down that aisle

and just leave 'em all behind

they'll know us by the billboards that we make

just turning God's words to cheap clichés

says 'what part of murder don't you understand?'

but we hate our fellow manand point a finger at his grave

they'll know us by the t-shirts that we wear

they'll know us by the way we point and stare

telling 'em their sins are worse than ours

thinking we can hide our scars

beneath these t-shirts that we wear

when love, love, love

is what we should be known for

love, love, love its the how and it's the why

we live and breathe and we die

We, believers and followers of Christ need to do a better job of balancing that "in the world but not of the world" command...let us strive to be noticably different, yes--but avoid being an annoying plastic imitation of both the real world and real faith.

11 Days ... The Lord hates Divorce

2008-05-06T09:31:00.002-04:00

Divorce is something I fear.

My dad was divorced before he married my mother. My sister divorced her first husband only a few years into their marriage. My brother-in-law was divorced before he married my sister. All three of my uncles are/were divorced. Both of my best friends growing up are now divorced. My sweet friends that are more like family were both divorced multiple times before marrying each other. It's everywhere I look!

James and I have made the committment that no matter how hard things may get, divorce will not be the answer. Why not give up when the going gets touch? The Lord hates divorce (Malachi 2:16). Divorce damages the symbolism of the gospel that marriage is supposed to mirror (Husbands loving their Wives as Christ loves the Church and Wives submitting to their Husbands as the Church submits to Christ).

Recently, I've read Gary Thomas' Sacred Marriage and it's theme is that marriage wasn't designed by God to make you happy but to make you holy. This holiness is accomplished through the struggles of marriage that lead you to trust in God's faithfulness more, allow God to develop selflessness and patience in you and teaches you to love your spouse unconditionally as Christ as loved us. It's an outlook on marriage that many don't have, and I pray that when times are tough--that James and I will see it as an opportunity to grow in our faith and stick it out rather than give in to the temptation to give up.

12 Days

2008-05-05T09:33:00.002-04:00

Woah - 12 days left. That's wild!

I'm all moved into the apartment. Thursday, James & I and our friend Melissa made three trips in the U-Haul to get all my stuff and some of his stuff to the new place. Then James went off to class and Melissa headed home. As I slowly carried in one box at a time, as I am pitifully puny. God blessed me tremendously when two of our neighbors came and graciously carried everything left in the truck in for me. James was super excited when I called him when he class ended at 10pm to tell him he didn't have to come over and move anything! Almost everything is set up, except for the spare bedroom/office which has turned into a catch-all room for everything I don't want to deal with at the moment. I'll post pictures soon :)

As I look forward to being married in 12 days -- YIKES -- I'm praying that God teaches me more about trusting in his faithfulness and provision. I'm so tempted to worry and fret over things I simply have no control. I have such little faith at times, it's quite embarassing. However, God is teaching me about trusting him and while it is hard, I am eager to learn and trust more!

19 Days ... BUSY BUSY Week

2008-04-28T13:54:00.002-04:00

I'm really not looking forward to this week, mostly because I know it will be busy and physically exhausting.

This morning, I had an interview to being teaching again the fall. They are considering me for the 6th grade position and if the pay and benefits are right, I think I would really enjoy teaching there. I should know something by the end of next week, so we're still praying.

Tomorrow, I have a dentist appointment. Not really that big of a deal, but just something else to add to this week.

Wednesday, after work it's a fun-filled evening of packing up my room! Yahoo! Wanna help?

Thursday begins early as James and I sign the lease on our new apartment and fork over the rent. Then we pick up the U-Haul, our new bed from the Peddler's Mall, drag all my belongings into the new apartment, then snatch some of his stuff. Our goal is to be finished before 7pm, when he has Philosophy class... here's hoping!

Friday, get marriage license on lunch break, buy his wedding ring after work before ESL.

Then the weekend should be full of unpacking and organizing and such. Seriously, if you wanna help let me know-ha!

23 Days - God-sightings

2008-04-24T11:10:00.004-04:00

When I worked with Mission Discovery in Mexico, Jamaica and TN for so many summers, one of the things I looked forward to most during team worship was the "God-sightings" time. This was when we shared with one another different experiences, situations that were evidence of God's grace in our lives.

I have heard that planning a wedding is extremely stressful. My sweet friend, Dr. Jennifer even prescribed me special immunity-booster, stress-buster vitamins so I wouldn't get sick from the stress I would experience in wedding planning. While there have been moments of indecision, frustration; I must confess that overall, it has been relatively stress-less!

Presently we have 23 days until 5/17/08 ... and as I reflect over the past five months of engagement, I have seen over and over again how God has graciously blessed James and I. Enjoy this list of God's grace and goodness:

My dad, cooperative??? My dad hates getting dressed up, he despises formal events and I was honestly worried about how to convince him to get in a suit with a red tie/vest...but PRAISE GOD, he has been so cooperative.
6pm wedding! While this wasn't my first choice as far as time of the day, it will accomodate my sister's family's schedule as they attend my nephew's 8th grade graduation that morning then jet north to L'ville for the wedding. God has graced my sister with an uncanny gift of flexibility and boy do I greatly appreciate that! Normally PBC doesn't allow wedding after 3pm due to cleaning and setting up for church in the morning, but they have graciously relaxed that rule for James and I. So, while this will make for a long evening, it will make for a more relaxing Saturday morning!
Showers, showers, showers. God has blessed James and I over and over again through the amazing generosity of our friends and family. We have had two showers thus far: Nashville and WV and this weekend we have the one with our church. We have received so many practical gifts, sentimental items, and encouraging notes and I have felt so loved!
Yummy cake. Wedding cakes typically cost between $2 and $3 per slice! Yes, per slice! Meaning for 100 people, we're looking at a $200-$300 cake. But THANKS BE TO GOD for Melissa at my church. She LOVES baking and has a true knack for decorating as well and is providing our cake for free! It's sure to be yummy and beautiful.
The Body of Christ. I can't brag on our church enough. It has been rare that I have observed the body of Christ rally around a couple in blessings, encouragement, and true service as they have for James and I. From the shower planned this weekend, to the use of the facilites for free nonetheless, to the wonderful counseling Bro. Tom has provided, to the gift of so many friends. They have welcomed James into the church family with open arms which has made my heart very happy. They provide a place of service for us in ESL and for me through the youth department and have even agreed to help support James' mission trip to Peru this summer. What a blessing they are !!

It is my prayer that God keeps my eyes open to how he is working all this out for me, as it has truly been He not I who has accomplished all of this so far. I know I have the tendency to forget God's blessings, particularly in times of struggle so I hope that by writing these down they will not only encourage you but serve as accountability for me to praise God for his blessings!

Be careful and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.

Deuteronomy 4:9

Packing

2008-04-22T08:36:00.002-04:00

Can I just say that I hate moving. I hate everything about it. The only redeeming quality is the joy of decorating a new place. In 9 short days I will be moving into what will be James' and I's apartment. We're renting a UHaul and going to do the move ourself because we're poor :( But it'll all come together. In the meantime, between still finalizing various wedding details, I'm packing my life in Jeffersonville into boxes. Currently the count is at 5 boxes containing all my seminary textbooks, picture frames, and trinkets from overseas.

In non-moving news, I'm only 3 episodes away from being completely caught up on my LOST addiction. It really is a sickness, but I'm hooked and well it's just sooo good!

Earthquake!

2008-04-18T08:31:00.003-04:00

So, I woke up to an earthquake this morning! Apparently there was a a 5.2 earthquake about 120 west of Louisville and we felt the tremors here this morning at 5:37am. Wild, huh? My alarm had just went off so I was in that weird state of awake/sleep/dream when my bed started shaking. I remember thinking, "this is weird" as I just lay there. When it was over, I hopped up and met the roomies in the hallway to looks of "What was that?" The next hour or so was spent surfing various news channels on TV to find out more details. I called James to alert him, concerned that since he has no TV he might not know what happened. Seems as though the silly boy slept through the whole thing--ha! Thankfully thus far, it appears there are no injuries and very little damage.

It is a startling, yet wonderful, reminder of God's control over nature. The same God who created this world, permits it to be shook and this should prompt us to praise Him and be in awe of his power.

The voice of the Lord shakes the wilderness,

The Lord shakes the wilderness of Kadesh.

Psalm 29.8

Exercise Progress

2008-04-15T12:25:00.003-04:00

So, recently I've been exercising...shocking right? You're telling me!

It began with laughing my way through "Walk away the Pounds" with the roomie. It has now evolved into walking between 1 and 1.5 miles just about every day. Usually I do a 1 mile jaunt down at the park during my lunch break from work. Sometimes I walk the 1.5 mile loop through the neighborhood behind the apartments. Either way, I'm pretty proud of my consistency in working out recently ... and I've actually lost 3 pounds since beginning-yahoo!

Long Over Due Pictures #3 -- WV Shower

2008-04-08T09:03:00.004-04:00

James' sister and I.

Check out the boy cleaning!

My new boyfriend, Devin.

James' family worked so hard decorating everything!

Check out this cake from Mrs. Patterson:

We played a "How Well does Melissa know James" game. For every question I answered incorrectly, I had to chew a piece of NASTY gum. I hate gum. But I am proud to say I got 11/20 correct...that's good, right? Geesh.

Us with Mrs. Phyllis, Mama Sue & Susie, all from James' home church.
Us with James' family.

Long Over Due Pictures #2 -- Nashville Shower

2008-04-08T08:53:00.003-04:00

Carrie aka "Betty Crocker" created this delicious spread.

Toilet Paper Bride Game:

My sister won! Check out that sweetheart neckline and assymetrical hem. My aunts Ann & Sissy know how to make a dress!
Sadly, my friends Sherry & Zshanee weren't so good at dress making. Check out that headband, bow and VERY short dress-ha!
My cousin Vonnie had the most scandalous dress-it had a completely open midriff and just a swipe of TP across her bottom.

My inital reaction to the beginning of "The Talk"

Long Over Due Pictures #1 -- SNOW

2008-04-08T08:38:00.002-04:00

This winter in Kentuckiana has been one snowy winter wonderland for this TN girl! Check out these pictures from our 'blizzard' of about 8 inches back in March.
Rachel-don't fall in!

43 Days ... Approved

2008-04-04T15:44:00.002-04:00

Today we got the official word that we are approved for the apartment! Yahoo! It's a serious relief to know that we won't be living in our cars down by the river. Now, contemplating packing and moving--yucky. We'll think about that later. :)

We leave tonight promptly after work and a quick stop at the bank to deposit the lovely paycheck for our shower in WV on Saturday! 6 hours in the car ... joyful. We'll be back Sunday night and I promise to post pictures of all the shower festivities.

Tagged

2008-04-02T14:36:00.002-04:00

10 Years Ago:
1998-I was 19 yeras old and in the spring semester of my freshman year at TSU. This is Wednesday afternoon, so by this time I was probably already finished with classes for the day and back home. I was studying Elementary Education, focusing in Childhood Growth & Development. Most likely I spent most of the day hanging out with Zshanee between classes, then doing homework when I got home. Dad and I were probably still heavily grieving Mom's passing in the fall of 1997.

Things on My To Do List Today:
(Other than working)
1. Drop wedding dress off at tailor's to be altered.
2. Tan after work.
3. Start writing thank you cards for my Nashville shower.
4. Finish stuffing wedding invitations for James' family/friends.
5. Finalize packing list for WV shower this weekend.

What Would I Do If I Suddenly Became a Billionaire?
1. Praise God!
2. Give a tenth to PBC.
3. Pay off James' student loans.
4. Head overseas right after the wedding ... how needs the IMB when you could be a self-funded missionary?!

3 of My Bad Habits:
1. I often sleep in my contacts, which makes the opthamologist cringe. Usually this lasts about 3 nights then my eyes are so dry and scratchy that I have to take them out to give them a rest.
2. I get seriously moody at night when I'm sleepy. It's bad, I'm praying about it.
3. I am addicted to celebrity news- People.com, EOnline.com ... it's gossip, it's bad, I'm praying about that as well.

Last 5 Jobs I've Had:
1. AMCC-callback girl. When you buy a home and see things that are wrong, you call me!
2. UMS-Skiptracing Specialist. Tracking down people who are trying to skip out on their library debts and kick them in the shins...just kidding, call them and gently remind them to pay the library their dues.
3. Ms. K-whatever she said. Scrapbooking, Filing, Writing checks for bills ... you name it and I did it.
4. PACS-Kindergarten Teacher, try to teach 5 year olds how to read and count and such between wiping noses, zipping zippers, and solving all the world's problems with the application of a character Band-Aid.
5. JTS-you know that store in the country that boasts videos, tanning, BBQ ... basically all in one entertainment stop? Yeah, I worked at one of those. Fun Times!

5 Things You Might Not Know About Me:
1. I am actually 5 foot even. Not 5'1", Not 4'11" but 5' exactly and proud!
2. I used to bite my fingernails. Seriously it was gross, I'm talking bitten down to the quick, fingers were bleed gross. Then my aunt told me that if you swallow fingernails your body can't digest them and they get stored in your appendix and that's why appendixes burst! YIKES! So I stopped, now I forget to cut them and end up with crazy sharp knife like weapons on each hand!
3. I've been interviewed on TV twice:

Once for my 5th birthday, my dad, grandpa, and two uncles thought it would be a good idea to take me to be in the audience of the Morning Show with Ralph Emery-local NBC news show. Not so fun part was that the show started at 5AM so we had to be up and ready and leave by 4:30AM. Ralph interviewed me because it was my birthday.

Second in 2nd grade. Again on the local NBC station, this time the evening news (finally they figured out I'm not a morning person!) The news station had this contest where they had kids write in about why their teacher was special and each month they picked a kid's essay and gave the class a party and the teacher a special gift. I wrote about Mrs. Taylor (still my favorite teacher) and she won! Our class got an ice cream party and Mrs. Taylor and I got to be on TV.

4. I can do weird things with my body. I can flare my nostrils, wiggle my ears, and stand on my head for a ridicuously long period of time. That's what you learn to do when you're the only child at home.
5. I can't sit Indian style. Yep I can't do it ... I tried, it hurts, not gonna do it again.

Shower #1 - NashVegas Style

2008-03-31T11:24:00.002-04:00

So this weekend was my first bridal shower in my hometown!

So, I learned a few things about ...

My family -

THEY ARE LOUD! When I arrived at Jennifer's (maid of honor and shower hostess) she met me in the garage and with a firm look said "Get in here and get your family under control, they are all loud, look exactly alike and I don't know their names." Turns out my family all showed up at 1:25 though the shower didn't start until 2 and they promptly began asking Jennifer questions: Where is Melissa, When is she getting married, Where, Who is James, etc.. etc...

They don't play by the rules! Not only did only 2 out of 9 of them RSVP apparently they don't know how to use a gift registry either. Evidenced by the fact that I now have two identical crock pots, two identical George Foremans.

They are REALLY sweet. My cousin Vonnie made me a quilt block. It is of a Dutch Girl, our mawmaw's favorite pattern. What's extra cool about this is that the Dutch girl herself is made from scraps from our mawmaw's old dresses. Way cool. Though it will match absolutely nothing in my entire apartment, it will be prominently displayed once I find a cool frame that prevents it from fading.

Kay will embarass you, badly.

First, Kay's gift was a decanter for water for the nightstand for after. After what? FOR AFTER ... yeah you got it. It's Kay's typical gift for a wedding shower, and I've always been grossed out by it. Now I too have a beautiful cut crystal one for our nightstand.

After the shower was over and my loud family left, Kay sat me in a chair across the room from herself, Patty, Sherry, Brittany, Jennifer & Carrie--all ladies who are/have been married and from my home church (though some don't attend now). Kay apparently had orchestrated this event and Sherry was tagged to give me the talk. Yep, a sex talk from six church ladies. Quite mortifying and hilarious all at the same time.

Check back later for pictures of all the pandemoneium.

Why I believe in Christ ...

2008-03-21T08:42:00.003-04:00

I just want to share with anyone who may be reading this blog, why it is that I trust in Christ alone as my savior.

1. Creation. Growing up I learned "The Big Bang Theory", the theory of evolution, etc... but there were just too many holes. The design and order of this world, even with all the things that go so wrong at times, screams the fact that there must have been a designer behind the design.
2. My own body. There is no medical reason why I should be able to walk and move around--none at all. I've been to the doctors, I've studied Anatomy and Physiology. There's just no explaining it. Must be the work of one stronger than science, one stronger than the weakensses of my own flesh and blood.
3. The witness of others. I didn't come from a "christian" family. There were no prayers said at my home ... there were no hymns sung ... no Bible read. However, for some reason I have been surrounded my believers my entire life. My parents saw it fit to drop me off at church each Sunday once I started school-perhaps it was out of guilt, perhaps it was free daycare. Whatever the reason, at a very early age I began hearing and listening to the testimony of believers who had a relationship with Christ. Now these believers aren't perfect and many of them have lived a very flawed life. However, one thing remains constant--their faith in Christ.
4. The Bible. The Bible tells us that we are all sinners. News flash, huh?! I remember being a very young girl and understanding very well that I was a sinner. How could I not? As much as I got in trouble, and my parents didn't know half of what I did or even worse-what I thought. Look at the newspapers-murders, rape, theft. Look at your own heart. Even if you are for the most part a "Good Person" you sin as well. Whether thinking bad thoughts, displaying a bad attitude, or just not doing all the good you could do. We are all sinners. The Bible tells us that our sin must be punished with death. We will all die -- that is a fact no one can deny. After death comes judgment. It is at this judgment that it will be determined who will be dead eternally or who will live eternally. The Bible tells us that Christ paid the debt of our sins--he died in my place, as my sacrifice, my atonement, my substitute. The Bible tells me to trust in Christ as my Savior. I can't be good enough to earn God's approval. I'm a sinner who is bound for death. Yet there is hope in Christ. God allows us to trust in His son-he gives us the faith to do so.

It is my prayer that this Resurrection season, that you prayerfully consider who Christ is and what relationship you have with Him.

Blessings,
Melissa

58 Days - Biblical Wifery

2008-03-19T14:29:00.003-04:00

Christian Wives Can Change Lives

Check out this link from IBC here in L'ville from their series on Biblical Femininity & Masculinity.

Favorite Quote:

"You may be as skillfull as the Proverbs 31 wife, but if you're not submissive you won't be helpful."

Valuable Points:

1. Submission is among equals.
2. Submission is not mutual.
3. A wife's submission is exclusive.

Dream

2008-03-18T13:06:00.000-04:00

Last night I had a dream about my friend Mojgan. I met Mojgan at an ESL program I served at for a year and a half before graduating seminary. On the first day I met Mojgan, she asked me for help. That afternoon, I ended up scrapping all my plans and driving Mojgan to a single-mother assitance program office and terribly translating her broken English-Farsi to the sweet lady at the office. About six months later Mojgan called me needing more help-her abusive ex-husband was showing up at her work at closing time to talk to her and she was scared. I've shared the gospel with Mojgan and have prayed for her earnestly, though not as earnestly as I ought. I've kinda lost contact with Mojgan over the past 8 months or so. She no longer comes to the ESL program due to her work schedule and I'm not longer there due to my work schedule to get updates from her mom. I usually try to track her down at the Wal-Mart she works at to say 'Hi."

Anyway, last night I had a disturbing dream about her. I had a dream that she called me, needing my help. Something was clearly wrong, though I can't remember what it was. I woke up quite upset this morning ... in that daze, confusion of whether what just occured with real or a dream. I'm not one ot be into the whole "dreams have meaning thing" but I do know that God has and can communicate to us through dreams. Today I have felt burdened for Mojgan in a way that is stronger than ever before. I'm going to try to track her down ... whether at work ... showing up at her home ... somewhere. Please pray for Mojgan, even if my dream is nothing and she is technically OK, she is still trapped in the lies of Islam and that is her real need.

(Mojgan and I at her Naturalization Ceremony-Dec. 22, 2006-also her b'day!)

60 Days

2008-03-17T09:32:00.002-04:00

So we've hit the two month mark. God has been doing a real work on my heart recently.

Sadly, I've felt recently my self-consciousness becoming worse as I look forward to marriage. Born with a weird birth defect that causes me to walk with a limp and other quirky things, my differences never really bothered me and I usually tried to view them as an opportunity to give God glory for enabling me to do things the doctors didn't think were possible. I must admit that deep down, though I always had a desire to be married, I never really thought any guy would want me as physically broken as I am. Then James came into my life. Sweet James who knows everything about me. Stuff only my parents and sister and doctors know - not even my closest best friends really know what all goes on inside my body. Yet James loves me anyway and actually wants to marry me. One would think that such love would be freeing and I would be filled with confidence. Yet I've been surprised that I have suddenly become even more self-conscious. I know all women are self-conscious on their wedding night and such ... but I'm just scared. I guess I have this irrational fear of disappointing him. I say irrational because God tells us that "perfect love drives out all fear" (I John 4:18). While I know James and I's love is not perfect by any stretch of the means ... the fact remains that his love for me and my love for him should not cause fear in each other, but be at ease with one another not fearful of rejection or punishment, etc...

This I need to meditate on more and pray about more.

64 Days - To Do List

2008-03-14T16:44:00.004-04:00

Here's what's left to do:

-find shoes
-get dress altered
-begin tanning?
-finish invitations
-find jewelry
-bridesmaids/flower girl/ring bearer gifts
-two showers in the next 3 weeks
-begin second round of pre-marital counseling with my pastor in April
-buy stamps ... lots of stamps
-think about: hair, makeup, ceremony details, music for ceremony, music for reception, food for reception, cleaning up after reception, yada yada yada

whew ... wanna help? anyone??

65 Days - Rest

2008-03-13T15:22:00.008-04:00

Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. Psalm 62:5

So, the past week has been a blur and it's not even over yet.

Work has been crazy! Our internet/email has been down all week until today so we had to resort to doing everything old school. You know, faxing and *gasp* actually calling a human on the phone.

Monday night after work, I helped James study for his Sci-Fi and the Gospel mid-term. Tuesday night, after work I went to Moe's and Wal-mart with my roomie. Wednesday night, after work James and I taught 15 normally hyper children at his church's Children in Action program. Then I helped him study for his Apologetics mid-term on Thursday until Midnight. Lenny, one of James' best friends at SBTS is leaving to go work with a church in Chicago this weekend so we met with him at Barbara Lee's Kitchen this morning at 6:30am for a goodbye breakfast. Tonight I get to go look at a condo, work on my wedding invitations, finish the guest list. Tomorrow, work then ESL then a going-away party at Lenny's apartment afterwards.

I can't wait until Saturday morning when I can sleep in ... wait ... what's that penciled in on my calendar?! Hospital visitation ... errr ... life is busy. But God is good and that's enough for me.

Photo: Romeo, my sweet brown hound, resting comfortably on his couch at home.

67 Days-Outdo One Another in Love

2008-03-11T19:39:00.003-04:00

Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.

Romans 12:10

Gary Thomas' Sacred Marriage is proving again to be a huge blessing as I prepare for marriage. He uses the verse above to exhort readers to strive to outdo their spouse in the love and service. To intentionally seek to do the things that let your spouse know they are loved and appreciated. So, I've kinda made it my own personal goal to begin doing this. Monday I stopped by James' after work to help quiz him on his mid-term that night (which he got a 97 on btw!) and I secretely snuck some Creme Savers and a little note of encouragement in his bookbag when he wasn't looking--it was rather fun!

71 Days - Helper

2008-03-07T10:15:00.004-05:00

I think for a long time, I had a faulty view of what my role would be as a wife. I mistakingly thought that my future husband would be perfect-no weaknesses, no sins that would annoy me, that I would be in awe of his ability to do everything. However, this is not true. All people are sinful (Romans 3:23)
We all have weaknesses, which may or may not be sinful in nature. These weaknesses were present before the fall-hence the reason why it was not good for man to be alone, that he needed a helper--Eve, his wife.

Carolyn Mahaney spoke at a women's conference on "Watching Your Man". How to serve your husband by being a true helpmate-a wife who uses her strengths to help her husband, who picks up the slack where he falls short, and gently encourages him towards godliness even when that involves rebuking/correcting.
Here are some of the main points:

1. God made woman to be a helper for man.Marriage is about love and friendship-part of friendship is helping each other. Proverbs 27:6

2. Know how to correct and how not too. Avoid self-righteousness, be respectful. God commands us to inspect our own heart before inspecting his. Humility is far more important than insight. Being humble will help your husband accept your insight.

3. Know what to correct and what not to correct. We have four options: overlook, forebear, lovingly drop it, and persist. Must distinguish between important and non-important. Ask God for wisdom to pick our battles.

As much as I love James, he is sinful and he has weaknesses. I must admit that I, too, have many weaknesses and am quite sinful.

God has already showed me how our individual strengths and weaknesses work quite nicely together. For example:

James is Mr. Detail-Oriented, especially in the little things. Each purchase he makes, each gift he gives, each project he completes has been combed over thoroughly. I, on the other hand, am a fast-paced worker-I tend to value efficiency over quality in the details, which has been one of the criticisms I receive most at work and school "slow down Melissa, take your time and pay attention to the little things." Sometimes deadlines are present and we can't pay as much attention to little things, but must focus on the big picture and often it is the little things that make a big difference and they shouldn't be overlooked.

James can't multi-task at all. He is the typical boy-one thing at a time. Often this annoys me as I get discouraged when he can't follow my conversation as I jump from item to item. I however pride myself as little Miss Multi-tasker. Sometimes we need to be able to multi-task and other times we need to focus.

James is patient, beyond words and kind beyond belief. I must confess to being passionate to the point that I often over-react. Both of us need to strike a balance between when to be patient and when to act.

I thank God for creating me with gifts and talents that will compliment James' gifts and talents. I pray daily that God prevents me from being prideful of my gifts or being critical of James' weaknesses, but focus on how I can best serve him and improve my weaknesses and avoid my personal sins. I truly do long to be a good helper and need God's help to do that.

Game Night

2008-03-06T20:18:00.006-05:00

Enjoy these snapshots from last Friday's ESL Game Night with our Cuban Friends :)

Eric, Eduardo y Madelyn

Laura Beth, Rachel y Madelyn

Melissa, Eduarito y Emanuel

The Roomies

Twister!

Emanuel y yo

73 Days-Apartment Hunting

2008-03-05T11:15:00.001-05:00

Can we say stressful? So, I looked at four different places to live yesterday. Three all within 2 hours of getting off work! One of them I LOVED, but it's a little expensive. Two of them are definite no's and one is a maybe. We're checking out two houses to rent today between getting off work and going to church. Woo Hoo!